A communication method and apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a communication method and device. In the method, a first network element receives first information, the first information being used to indicate to report statistical data of a first event; and in a case that a network element serving a terminal device is changed from the first network element to a second network element, the first network element sends the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event. In the case that the network element is changed, the first network element sends the raw data of the first event in a first time period, so that an entity receiving the raw data can perform data statistics based on the raw data, and the accuracy of the statistical result is improved; and the first network element performs statistics when determining that the network element is changed, and sends the statistical data, so that the continuity of the statistics is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, network service consumers (e.g., network data analytics function (NWDAF)) can subscribe to data from various network functions (NFs) (e.g., access management network elements, session management network elements), and each NF notifies the consumer of the data associated with the subscription when the reporting conditions are met.

[0003] If the NF serving the terminal device changes, how to handle the data associated with that subscription is a problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus, which provides a way to process the relevant data of the network element that provides services to the terminal device when the network element changes.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a communication method. This method is applied to a first network element, or a communication module within the first network element, or a processor, circuit, or chip within the first network element responsible for communication functions. It can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. For example, the first network element is an access management network element or a session management network element.

[0006] Taking the application of this method to a first network element as an example: The first network element receives first information, which is used to indicate the reporting of statistical data for a first event, which is associated with a terminal device; when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element sends the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in a first time period; wherein, the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the first network element changes to the second network element, and the first time being earlier than the second time; the raw data is the data collected by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

[0007] In this method, when a network element changes, the first network element sends out the raw data of the first event in the first time period (e.g., to a consumer or a second network element). This allows the entity receiving the raw data (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) to perform data statistics based on this raw data (optionally, also including newly collected data), improving the accuracy of the statistical results. Furthermore, the consumer uses these statistical results for model training and inference, improving the accuracy of model training and inference. Alternatively, the consumer can use this raw data for model training and inference, further improving the accuracy of model training and inference.

[0008] The first network element sends out statistical data on the first event within the first time period (e.g., to the consumer or the second network element), which improves the continuity of statistics. For example, after receiving the statistical data, the second network element can perform joint statistics based on this data and newly collected data, and then send the results to the consumer. The consumer can then use these continuous statistical results for model training and inference, which improves the accuracy of model training and inference.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the raw data for the first event includes one or more of the following: the time when the first event occurred, the duration of the first event, or the number of times the first event occurred. The statistical data for the first event is measured by means and / or variance.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the first network element can also send the first time.

[0011] In this implementation, the first network element sends out the data immediately (e.g., to a consumer or a second network element), enabling the entity receiving the data (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) to know the time corresponding to the original data and / or statistical data. For scenarios where statistical data of the first event is reported periodically, the first time can be understood as the start time of the first reporting period (the first period refers to the period in which the first network element changes to the second network element). Based on the start time of the first period, the entity receiving the data (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) can determine the end time of the first period, thus establishing a complete reporting period, rather than establishing a new reporting period, thereby improving the continuity of statistics.

[0012] In one possible implementation, the first network element transmits statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, including: the first network element transmitting the context of the terminal device, wherein the context of the terminal device includes: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period.

[0013] In this implementation, carrying statistical data and / or raw data within the context of the terminal device can save signaling overhead.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to instruct statistical data for reporting the first event, including: the first information is used to instruct statistical data for periodically reporting the first event.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the first information is also used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; when the end time of the reporting period is reached and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element may also send second information, which is used to indicate that the first duration is updated to a second duration, the second duration being less than the first duration.

[0016] In this implementation, in a scenario where statistics of the first event are periodically reported, if a change occurs in the network element before the end time of the reporting period, for example, the terminal device may move frequently at this time, the first network element may suggest updating or shortening the duration of the reporting period. Optionally, it may also provide a suggested value for the duration of the period (e.g., a second duration).

[0017] In one possible implementation, the second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period. For example, the second duration is the duration of the first time period.

[0018] In one possible implementation, when the first event occurs, the first network element stores the first event statistics and / or raw data in the context of the terminal device.

[0019] In this implementation, when the first event occurs, the first network element stores the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the context of the terminal device. In this way, when a network element changes, the first network element can inform the second network element of the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event through the context of the terminal device. This can save signaling overhead and also avoid the data being stored elsewhere and forgotten to be informed to the second network element.

[0020] For example, when the first network element occurs, it determines and saves the statistical data of the first event, ensuring that the first network element has the latest statistical data. Saving the original data of the first event when it occurs also prevents inaccurate statistical results due to the loss of original data.

[0021] Secondly, this application provides a communication method, which is applied to a second network element, or a communication module within a second network element, or a processor, circuit, or chip within a second network element responsible for communication functions. It can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. For example, the second network element is an access management network element or a session management network element.

[0022] Taking the application of this method to a second network element as an example: The second network element receives third information, which is used to indicate the statistical data of the first event, which is associated with the terminal device; the second network element receives statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from the first network element in a first time period; wherein, the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being: the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, and the first time is earlier than the second time; the raw data is the data provided by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

[0023] In this method, when a network element changes, the first network element sends the raw data of the first event in the first time period to the second network element. The second network element can perform data statistics based on this raw data (optionally, it also includes newly collected data), improving the accuracy of the statistical results. Furthermore, the consumer can use these statistical results for model training and inference, improving the accuracy of model training and inference. The first network element sending the statistical data of the first event in the first time period to the second network element improves the continuity of statistics. For example, after receiving the statistical data, the second network element can perform combined statistics based on this data and newly collected data, and then send the statistical results to the consumer.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: the second network element sending first statistical data to the consumer; wherein the first statistical data is based on: statistical data and / or raw data of a first event in a first time period, and data determination of the first event by the second network element.

[0025] In this implementation, when determining statistical data, the second network element not only considers the data of the first event it collects, but also the original data and / or statistical data of the first event determined by the first network element, which can improve the continuity of statistics.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the third information is used to indicate the statistical data of the first event when the first condition is met. The data of the first event determined by the second network element includes: the data of the first event in a second time period, the second time period being determined based on a second time and a third time, the third time being the time when the first condition is met.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the raw data for the first event includes one or more of the following: the time when the first event occurred, the duration of the first event, or the number of times the first event occurred. The statistical data for the first event is measured by means and / or variance.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the second network element can also receive the first time. For example, the second network element determines the third time based on the first time. In a scenario where statistics on the first event are reported periodically, the third time can be: the end time of the first period (the period in which the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element).

[0029] In this implementation, the second network element can obtain the time corresponding to the raw data and / or statistical data based on the first time. For scenarios where statistical data of the first event is reported periodically, the first time can be understood as the start time of the first reporting cycle (the first cycle refers to the period in which the first network element changes to the second network element). Based on the start time of the first cycle, the second network element can determine the end time of the first cycle, thus establishing a complete reporting cycle, rather than re-establishing a new reporting cycle, thereby improving the continuity of statistics.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the third information is used to indicate statistical data for reporting the first event, including: the third information is used to indicate statistical data for periodically reporting the first event.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, the second network element sends: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, and statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the third time period; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, and the fourth time is the time when the second network element changes to the third network element.

[0032] In this implementation, if the second network element determines that the end time of the reporting cycle has not been reached and a change of network element has occurred, the second network element will send out the information from the first network element and the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event it has determined (e.g., to the third network element or the consumer) so that the entity receiving this information can perform data statistics based on this information, thereby improving the continuity of statistics.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the third information is also used to indicate the first duration of the reporting period; if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, the second network element may also send a fourth information, which is used to indicate that the first duration is updated to the third duration, the third duration being shorter than the first duration.

[0034] In this implementation, in a scenario where statistics of the first event are periodically reported, if a network element changes before the end time of the reporting period, for example, the terminal device may move frequently at this time, the second network element may suggest updating or shortening the duration of the reporting period. Optionally, it may also provide a suggested value for the duration of the period (e.g., a third duration).

[0035] In one possible implementation, the third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, the fourth time being the time when the second network element changes to the third network element. For example, the third duration is the average of the durations of the first time period and the third time period, or the third duration is the maximum or minimum duration of the first time period and the third time period.

[0036] In this implementation, the second network element can sense two network element changes (e.g., from the first network element to the second network element, and then from the second network element to the third network element). The second network element determines a suggested value for the period (e.g., the third duration) based on the duration of these two network element changes (e.g., the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period). Compared to determining the suggested value for the period based solely on the duration of any one of the network element changes, this approach allows for a more accurate suggested value.

[0037] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method applied to a consumer, a communication module in a consumer entity, or a processor, circuit, or chip in a consumer entity responsible for communication functions. This method can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the consumer's functions. For example, the consumer can be a network data analytics function (NWDAF).

[0038] The method is described using an example of its application to a consumer: The consumer sends first information to a first network element; the first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for a first event, which is associated with a terminal device; the consumer receives statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from the first network element within a first time period; wherein, the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, and the first time is earlier than the second time; the raw data is data provided by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the raw data of the first event includes one or more of the following information: the time when the first event occurred, the duration of the first event, or the number of times the first event occurred.

[0040] One possible implementation also includes: receiving the first time.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to instruct statistical data for reporting the first event, including: the first information is used to instruct statistical data for periodically reporting the first event.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the first information is also used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; it also includes: receiving second information from a first network element, the second information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a second duration, the second duration being less than the first duration.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period; for example, the second duration is the duration of the first time period.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the first information is also used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; it also includes receiving fourth information from a second network element, the fourth information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, the fourth time being: the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element.

[0046] The third aspect and its possible technical effects can be referenced from the first aspect and the second aspect and their possible technical effects, and will not be elaborated further.

[0047] Fourthly, this application provides a communication method, which is applied to a first network element, or a communication module in the first network element, or a processor, circuit, or chip in the first network element responsible for communication functions. It can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. For example, the first network element is an access management network element or a session management network element.

[0048] Taking the application of this method to a first network element as an example: The first network element receives first information, which is used to instruct the periodic reporting of statistical data of a first event and to instruct the duration of the reporting period to be a first duration, wherein the first event is associated with a terminal device; if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the second information is sent to the consumer, which is used to instruct the updating of the duration of the reporting period; or, the second information is used to instruct the shortening of the reporting period; or, the second information is used to instruct the updating of the duration of the reporting period to a second duration.

[0049] In this implementation, in a scenario where statistics of the first event are periodically reported, if a change occurs in the network element before the end time of the reporting period, for example, the terminal device may move frequently at this time, the first network element may suggest updating or shortening the duration of the reporting period. Optionally, it may also provide a suggested value for the duration of the period (e.g., a second duration).

[0050] Fifthly, this application provides a communication method applied to a consumer, a communication module in a consumer entity, or a processor, circuit, or chip in a consumer entity responsible for communication functions. This method can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the consumer's functions. For example, the consumer can be a network data analysis function (NWDAF).

[0051] The method is described using an example of its application to a consumer: The consumer sends a first message, which instructs the periodic reporting of statistical data for a first event, and indicates that the duration of the reporting period is a first duration, and the first event is associated with a terminal device;

[0052] If the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the system receives second information from the first network element. The second information is used to indicate updating the duration of the reporting period; or, the second information is used to indicate shortening the duration of the reporting period; or, the second information is used to indicate updating the duration of the reporting period to a second duration.

[0053] The technical effects of the fifth aspect can be referenced from the fourth aspect, and will not be elaborated further.

[0054] Sixthly, a communication device is provided. The communication device can be a first network element as described in the first or fourth aspect above, and the communication device possesses the functions of the first network element. The communication device is, for example, a functional module within the first network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. Alternatively, the communication device can be a second network element as described in the second aspect above, and the communication device possesses the functions of the second network element. The communication device is, for example, a functional module within the second network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. Alternatively, the communication device can be a consumer as described in the third or fifth aspect above, and the communication device possesses the functions of the consumer. The communication device is, for example, a functional module within the consumer, such as a baseband device or a chip system.

[0055] In one optional implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another optional implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of transmitting and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the transmitting function, it can be called a transmitting unit (sometimes also called a transmitting module), and when the transceiver unit performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The transmitting unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional module, which is called the transceiver unit and can perform both transmitting and receiving functions; or, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit can be different functional modules, and the transceiver unit is a collective term for these functional modules.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a storage unit (sometimes also called a storage module), and the processing unit is configured to couple with the storage unit and execute programs or instructions in the storage unit to enable the communication device to perform the functions of the first network element described in the first or fourth aspect above, or the functions of the second network element described in the second aspect above, or the functions of the consumer described in the third or fifth aspect above.

[0057] A seventh aspect provides a communication device, including an interface circuit and a processor, and optionally, a memory. The memory stores a computer program. The processor is coupled to the memory and the interface circuit. When the processor reads the computer program or instructions, it causes the communication device to execute any method executed by a first network element in the first or fourth aspect, or any method executed by a second network element in the second aspect, or any method executed by a consumer in the third or fifth aspect. For example, the interface circuit is used to receive signals from other communication devices besides the communication device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other communication devices besides the communication device. The processor, through logic circuits or executable code instructions, implements the method executed by the first network element in the first or fourth aspect, or the method executed by the second network element in the second aspect, or the method executed by the consumer in the third or fifth aspect.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or chip system.

[0059] Eighthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor, and optionally, a memory; the processor and the memory are coupled; the memory is used to store computer programs or instructions; the processor is used to execute part or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, and when the part or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, to implement the function of a first network element in the first or fourth aspect above, or to implement the function of a second network element in the second aspect above, or to implement the function of a consumer in the third or fifth aspect above.

[0060] In one possible implementation, the communication device may further include a transceiver for transmitting signals processed by the processor or receiving signals input to the processor. The transceiver may perform a transmission or reception action performed by the first network element in the first or fourth aspect, or a transmission or reception action performed by the second network element in the second aspect, or a transmission or reception action performed by the consumer in the third or fifth aspect.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the processing unit in the sixth aspect can be implemented by the processor, the storage unit in the sixth aspect can be implemented by the memory, and the transceiver unit in the sixth aspect can be implemented by the transceiver.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or chip system.

[0063] A ninth aspect provides a communication system comprising at least two of the following: a first network element as described in the first aspect, a second network element as described in the second aspect, and a consumer as described in the third aspect. For example, the first network element, the second network element, and the consumer can be implemented using the communication apparatus described in the seventh or eighth aspect.

[0064] In a tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, comprising: a first network element as described in the fourth aspect and a consumer as described in the fifth aspect. For example, the first network element can be implemented using the communication device described in the seventh or eighth aspect. For example, the consumer can be implemented using the communication device described in the seventh or eighth aspect.

[0065] Eleventhly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause any one of the methods of the first to fifth aspects to be implemented.

[0066] In a twelfth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, causes any one of the methods of the first to fifth aspects described above to be implemented.

[0067] In a thirteenth aspect, a chip system is provided, the chip including a processor and a memory coupled thereto; the memory for storing computer programs or instructions; the processor for executing some or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, wherein when the some or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, they are used to implement the functions of a first network element in the first or fourth aspect, or to implement the functions of a second network element in the second aspect, or to implement the functions of a consumer in the third or fifth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0068] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the communication system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0069] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the relationship between time periods and time in an embodiment of this application.

[0070] Figures 3 to 8 A flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 9 , Figure 10 This is a structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0072] The technical solution of this application can be applied to various wireless communication systems, including but not limited to fourth-generation (4G) mobile communication technology systems (also known as long term evolution (LTE) systems), fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication technology systems (also known as new radio (NR) systems), or future mobile communication systems, etc., without any specific limitations.

[0073] Furthermore, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to device-to-device (D2D) scenarios, such as NR-D2D scenarios, or to vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication scenarios, such as NR-V2X scenarios. For example, they can be used in fields such as intelligent driving, assisted driving, or intelligent connected vehicles. As another example, the technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to factory manufacturing scenarios.

[0074] Furthermore, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to scenarios including but not limited to: terrestrial cellular communication, non-terrestrial network (NTN), satellite communication, high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication, integrated access and backhaul (IAB) communication, and reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) communication.

[0075] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a communication system is provided for this application, including: 1) a terminal device, 2) a radio access network (RAN), and 3) a core network, wherein the terminal device accesses the core network through the RAN. Optionally, it also includes: 4) a data network (DN), wherein the core network communicates with the DN. A detailed description follows:

[0076] 1) Terminal Equipment: In this application embodiment, any device capable of data communication with network equipment can be considered a terminal equipment. Terminal equipment is also called a terminal, terminal device, user equipment (UE), user terminal, mobile station, or mobile terminal, etc. Terminal equipment can be widely used in various scenarios. For example, terminal equipment can be: mobile phones, computers, mobile internet devices (MID), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, stations (STA), robotic arms, cameras, robots, vehicles, drones, helicopters, airplanes, ships, or smart home devices (such as televisions, air conditioners, robot vacuums, speakers, set-top boxes), relays, customer premise equipment (CPE), etc.

[0077] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the terminal device can also be a terminal device in an IoT system, such as a water meter or electricity meter. IoT is an important component of future information technology development. Its main technical characteristic is connecting objects to networks through communication technology, thereby realizing an intelligent network that enables human-machine interconnection and object-to-object interconnection.

[0078] When the terminal device is applied to V2X, it can also be called a V2X device, such as a smart car, digital car, unmanned car, driverless car, pilotless car, autonomous car, pure electric vehicle, hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), range-extended electric vehicle (REEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), new energy vehicle, and RSU.

[0079] The various terminal devices described above, if located on a vehicle (e.g., placed / installed inside the vehicle), can all be considered in-vehicle terminal devices. In-vehicle terminal devices can be built into a vehicle's in-vehicle module, in-vehicle component, in-vehicle chip, or in-vehicle unit as one or more components or units. The vehicle can implement the methods of this application through the built-in in-vehicle module, in-vehicle component, in-vehicle chip, or in-vehicle unit. In-vehicle terminal devices can be vehicle equipment, in-vehicle modules, vehicles, in-vehicle units (on-board units, OBUs), remote sensing units (RSUs), in-vehicle infotainment systems (or in-vehicle transmission units) (telematics boxes, T-boxes), chips, or systems on a chip (SOCs), etc. These chips or SOCs can be installed in the vehicle, OBU, RSU, or T-box.

[0080] In the embodiments of this application, the device for implementing the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device itself, or a device capable of supporting the terminal device in implementing the functions, such as a chip system or a combination of devices or components capable of implementing the functions of the terminal device. This device can be installed in the terminal device. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or specific device form used in the terminal device.

[0081] 2) Radio Access Network (RAN): Provides connectivity between terminal equipment and the core network. The RAN can be a cellular system related to the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), such as a 5G / NR mobile communication system, or a future-oriented evolution system. The RAN can also be an open RAN (O-RAN or ORAN), a cloud radio access network (CRAN), a virtualized RAN (vRAN), a non-terrestrial network (NTN), etc. The RAN can also be a communication system that integrates two or more of the above systems. The radio access network can include at least one access network device. Access network devices can also be called RAN nodes, RAN entities, or access nodes, etc.

[0082] In one possible scenario, a RAN node can be a base station, an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), an access point (AP), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next-generation NodeB (gNB), or a base station in a future mobile communication system. RAN nodes can also be macro base stations, micro base stations, indoor stations, relay nodes, donor / host nodes, or radio controllers. RAN nodes can also be servers, wearable devices, vehicles, or in-vehicle equipment. For example, in V2X technology, the RAN node can be a roadside unit (RSU).

[0083] In another possible scenario, the RAN node can be a module or unit that performs some of the functions of the base station; or multiple RAN nodes can cooperate to assist terminal equipment in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes performing some of the functions of the base station. For example, the RAN node can include, but is not limited to, a centralized unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), or a radio unit (RU). The function of the CU can be implemented by a single entity or by different entities. For example, the function of the CU can be further divided, that is, the control plane and the user plane can be separated and implemented by different entities, namely the control plane CU entity (i.e., CU-control plane (CP) entity) and the user plane CU entity (i.e., CU-user plane (UP) entity). The CU-CP entity and the CU-UP entity can be coupled with the DU to jointly complete the function of the RAN node. The CU and DU can be set up separately or included in the same network element, such as in the baseband unit (BBU). Any of the units among the CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented by software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software modules and hardware modules.

[0084] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an O-RAN system, CU can also be called O-CU (Open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP, and RU can also be called O-RU. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU as examples.

[0085] The ORAN system includes: a cloud platform, RAN network functions, and a service management and orchestration (SMO) framework. RAN network functions include: O-CU, O-DU, and O-RU; optional, RIC may also be included, as detailed above. O-Cloud is an open cloud infrastructure platform consisting of physical resources that meet the functional requirements of O-RAN and software components that support O-RAN management and orchestration. This platform hosts and runs all software entities related to O-RAN network functions, while providing the necessary management and orchestration capabilities. The SMO not only assumes the responsibilities of a traditional network management system but also emphasizes its highly intelligent and service-oriented characteristics. It can integrate products and services from multiple vendors, thereby providing users with more flexible and customized solutions.

[0086] In the embodiments of this application, the device used to implement the function of the access network device can be the access network device itself, or it can be a device that supports the access network device in implementing the function, such as a chip system or a combination device or component that can implement the function of the access network device. The device can be installed in the access network device. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or specific device form used in the access network device.

[0087] 3) Core network (CN): It mainly provides user connections, user management, and service delivery, and serves as the interface to external networks.

[0088] The core network includes one or more of the following network elements:

[0089] The access management network element (also known as the mobility management network element) is a control plane network element provided by the operator's network. It is responsible for access control and mobility management of terminal devices accessing the operator's network, including functions such as mobility state management, allocation of temporary user identities, authentication, and user management. In 5G communication systems, this access management network element can be an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element. In future communication systems, the access management network element can still be an AMF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit its scope.

[0090] The session management network element is primarily responsible for session management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release. Specific functions include assigning IP addresses to users and selecting user plane network elements that provide packet forwarding capabilities. In 5G communication systems, this session management network element can be a session management function (SMF) network element. In future communication systems, the session management network element may still be an SMF network element, or it may have other names; this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0091] User plane network elements are responsible for forwarding and receiving user data in terminal devices. They can receive user data from the data network and transmit it to the terminal device through the access network equipment; user plane network elements can also receive user data from the terminal device through the access network equipment and forward it to the data network. The transmission resources and scheduling functions that provide services to the terminal device in the user plane network element are managed and controlled by the SMF network element. In 5G communication systems, this user plane network element can be a user plane function (UPF) network element. In future communication systems, the user plane network element can still be a UPF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0092] The data management network element is used for generating authentication credentials, processing user identifiers (such as storing and managing permanent user identities), and managing access control and subscription information. In 5G communication systems, this data management network element can be a unified data management (UDM) network element. In future communication systems, unified data management can still be a UDM network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0093] Data storage network elements are responsible for storing structured data information, including subscription information, policy information, and network data or service data with standard format definitions. In 5G communication systems, data storage network elements can be unified data repositories (UDRs). In future communication systems, network open function network elements can still be UDR network elements, or they can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0094] The network storage element can provide network element discovery functionality, offering network element information corresponding to its type based on requests from other network elements. It also provides network element management services, such as network element registration, updating, deregistration, and network element status subscription and push. In 5G communication systems, this network storage element can be a network repository function (NRF) element. In future communication systems, the network storage element may still be an NRF element, or it may have other names; this application does not limit its scope.

[0095] Network exposure function (NEF) network elements can be used to securely expose services and capabilities provided by 3GPP network function equipment to the outside world. In 5G communication systems, NEF network elements can be NEF network elements. In future communication systems, NEF network elements can still be NEF network elements, or they can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0096] Network data analytics (NWDAF) network elements can collect, analyze, and predict data from various network functions (NFs), such as policy control, session management, user plane, access management, and application function elements (through network capability open function elements). In 5G communication systems, NWDAF network elements can be network data analytics functions (NWDAF). In future communication systems, NWDAF network elements may still be NWDAF network elements, or they may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0097] It is understood that the aforementioned network element or function can be a network component in a hardware device, a software function running on dedicated hardware, or a virtualized function instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). One possible implementation is that the aforementioned network element or function can be implemented by a single device, multiple devices working together, or a functional module within a single device; this application does not specifically limit this.

[0098] 4) Data Network (DN): This network can deploy various services and provide data and / or voice services to terminal devices. For example, the DN can be a private network in a smart factory. Sensors installed in the workshop can serve as terminal devices. The DN can also house sensors and a control server, which can provide services to the sensors. Sensors can communicate with the control server, receive instructions, and transmit collected sensor data to the control server accordingly. Another example is the DN can be an internal office network for a company. Employees' mobile phones or computers can serve as terminal devices, allowing them to access information and data resources on the company's internal network. The application server in this application can be deployed within the data network.

[0099] The following is an introduction to the relevant terms used in this application.

[0100] 1. In this application, "instruction" or "used for instruction" can include explicit instruction (or direct instruction) and implicit instruction (or indirect instruction). When describing information as being used to indicate A, it can include whether the information explicitly indicates A or implicitly indicates A, but does not necessarily mean that the information carries A.

[0101] The indication methods involved in the embodiments of this application should be understood to cover various methods that enable the party to be indicated to obtain the information to be indicated. The information to be indicated can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information and sent separately. Moreover, the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different, without limitation.

[0102] In the embodiments of this application, "information" can be an explicit indication, that is, a direct indication through signaling, or obtained by combining other rules or parameters with parameters indicated by signaling, or by deduction. It can also be an implicit indication, that is, obtained based on rules or relationships, or based on other parameters, or by deduction. No limitation is imposed.

[0103] 2. In this application, communication between different devices can refer to direct communication between different devices (i.e., without the need for relaying or forwarding by other devices), or communication between different devices through other devices (i.e., requiring relaying or forwarding by other devices), or communication between a functional unit within a device and other devices through another functional unit. For example, "sending information to…(terminal)" can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal, and may include sending information directly or indirectly to the terminal. "Receiving information from…(terminal)" can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal, and may include receiving information directly or indirectly from the terminal. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, digital-to-analog conversion, amplification, filtering, etc., but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be understood in a similar way, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0104] 3. The naming of each message / information in this application is only illustrative and limits the name of each message / information.

[0105] 4. In this application, the words "exemplarily," "for example," "for instance," and "example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations, and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. It should be understood that the examples in this application may also be implemented in other ways.

[0106] 5. In this application, "greater than or equal to" and "greater than" are interchangeable; and / or, "less than" and "less than or equal to" are interchangeable.

[0107] 6. In the embodiments of this application, "when," "if," and "if" all refer to the device taking corresponding actions under certain objective circumstances, and are not time-limited, nor do they require the device to perform a judgment action, nor do they imply any other limitations. Unless otherwise specified, "if" and "if" can be substituted, and "when" and "in the case of" can be substituted. "When" and "if" / "if" can be substituted.

[0108] 7. In the embodiments of this application, the number of nouns, unless otherwise specified, refers to "singular nouns or plural nouns," that is, "one or more." "At least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A or B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B. Expressions such as "at least one of the following" or "one or more of them" refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c, or one or more of a, b, or c, means: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c. Each of a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0109] 8. In the embodiments of this application, ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish multiple objects and are not used to limit the size, content, order, timing, priority, or importance of the multiple objects. Furthermore, such names do not indicate differences in the content, sending / receiving end, sending order, size, application scenario, priority, or importance of the two pieces of information. Additionally, the numbering of steps in the various embodiments described in this application is only to distinguish different steps and is not used to limit the order of steps.

[0110] In a 5G network, the NWDAF (Network Window-Aided Assist) element can collect relevant data from various network elements (NFs) in the core network, and use this data for model training and inference. For example, the NWDAF collects UE-related location information and corresponding timestamp information from the AMF (Application Function Factor), and uses this information to train a model and infer the UE's movement trajectory. Similarly, the NWDAF collects UE-related session information from the SMF (Application Module Factor), and uses this information to train a model and infer the UE's communication behavior and trends, thereby assisting the network in optimizing the UE experience.

[0111] The data that NWDAF collects from AMF as defined in the 3GPP standard can be found in Tables 1 and 2. The data that NWDAF collects from SMF as defined in the 3GPP standard can be found in Tables 3 and 4.

[0112] Table 1: UE Access Behavior Trends

[0113]

[0114] Table 2: UE Location Trends

[0115]

[0116] Table 3: UE Session Behavior Trends

[0117]

[0118] Table 4: UE Communication Trends

[0119]

[0120] In related technologies, a consumer (e.g., NWDAF) sends a subscription request to the AMF, requesting to subscribe to data related to "UE access behavior trends" and / or "UE location trends." This subscription request includes a report period, and optionally, an expiry date. Based on the report period in the subscription request, the AMF periodically sends event notification messages to the consumer. These event notification messages include the content from Table 1 and / or Table 2 mentioned above (e.g., the intervals, durations, and timestamps in Table 1 and / or Table 2).

[0121] In related technologies, the consumer sends a subscription request to the SMF, requesting to subscribe to relevant data on "UE session behavior trends" and / or "UE communication trends." This subscription request includes a reporting period, and optionally, an expiry date. Based on the reporting period in the subscription request, the SMF periodically sends event notification messages to the consumer. These event notification messages include the content from Tables 3 and / or 4 mentioned above (e.g., the intervals, durations, and timestamps in Tables 3 and / or 4).

[0122] In related technologies, NF can also notify consumers of the data associated with the subscription based on other conditions, such as threshold triggering (below or above a specified threshold).

[0123] If, before a certain period has ended or the threshold condition has been met, the NF serving the UE changes due to UE movement or other reasons—for example, the AMF serving the UE changes from the first AMF to the second AMF—in related technologies, the following process is performed:

[0124] 1. The first AMF does not send the collected information to the second AMF. The collected information may be information that has been collected but has not yet been reported (or has not yet been statistically analyzed, such as calculating the average or variance); 2. The first AMF sends the subscription request to the second AMF, and the second AMF re-determines the time period for statistical analysis based on the time when it receives the subscription request.

[0125] If the first AMF does not send the collected information to the second AMF, the second AMF will not consider the information collected by the first AMF when determining statistical data. This results in a discrepancy between the statistical data determined by the second AMF and the actual statistical data, which will affect consumers' training and inference of the model. Furthermore, the second AMF's redetering of the statistical timeframe will lead to discontinuities in the statistics.

[0126] If the NF serving the UE changes frequently, and the time interval between two consecutive changes is less than the reporting period specified by the consumer, the network element serving the UE will be unable to report to the consumer before each change, resulting in a reporting interruption.

[0127] Based on this, this application provides a communication method in which a first network element receives first information, the first information being used to indicate the reporting of statistical data for a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to a second network element, the first network element sends statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the first network element changes to the second network element, and the first time being earlier than the second time; the raw data is data collected by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data of the first event.

[0128] In this method, when a network element changes, the first network element sends out the raw data of the first event in the first time period (e.g., to a consumer or a second network element). This allows the entity receiving the raw data (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) to perform data statistics based on this raw data (optionally including newly collected data), improving the accuracy of the statistical results. Furthermore, the consumer uses these statistical results for model training and inference, improving the accuracy of model training and inference. Alternatively, the consumer can use this raw data for model training and inference, further improving the accuracy of model training and inference.

[0129] The first network element sends out statistical data on the first event within the first time period (e.g., to the consumer or the second network element), which improves the continuity of statistics. Consumers can then use these continuous statistical results for model training and inference, improving the accuracy of model training and inference. For example, after receiving this statistical data, the second network element can perform combined statistical analysis based on this data and newly collected data, and then send the results to the consumer.

[0130] The relevant terms used in the embodiments of this application will be explained below. It should be noted that these explanations are for the purpose of making the embodiments of this application easier to understand, and should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope of protection claimed by this application.

[0131] 1. The first network element, the second network element, and the third network element in this application are network elements with the same function.

[0132] For example, the first network element, the second network element, and the third network element are all access management network elements (AMF). When the network element serving the terminal equipment changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element can be the source access management network element or the initial access management network element, and the second network element can be the target access management network element. When the network element serving the terminal equipment changes from the second network element to the third network element, the second network element can be the source access management network element, and the third network element can be the target access management network element.

[0133] For example, the first network element, the second network element, and the third network element are all Session Management Network Elements (SMFs). When the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element can be the source SMF and the second network element can be the target SMF. When the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, the second network element can be the source SMF and the third network element can be the target SMF.

[0134] The first network element in this application embodiment can be replaced by a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) within the first network element, or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. Similarly, the second network element in this application embodiment can be replaced by a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) within the second network element, or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. The third network element in this application embodiment can be replaced by a module (e.g., a circuit, chip, or chip system) within the third network element, or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the third network element.

[0135] 2. In this application, the consumer can be replaced by: consumer function, consumer network element, consumer function entity, consumer network function, or consumer device. For example, the consumer is NWDAF.

[0136] 3. In this application, "report" can be replaced with "report to," "send," or "transmit." "Report" can refer to reporting to a consumer, but it also includes reporting to other network elements / devices / appliances, etc.

[0137] The last time can be replaced with: the most recent time, or the previous time.

[0138] The reporting period can be replaced with the reporting cycle or the statistical cycle.

[0139] 4. Reference Figure 2 It introduces the relationship between time periods.

[0140] The first time period is determined based on the first and second times; the second time period is determined based on the second and third times; the third time period is determined based on the second and fourth times; and the fourth time period is determined based on the first and fourth times. The time periods are then ordered chronologically as follows: first time, second time, fourth time, third time.

[0141] For example, the first time can be: the time when the first network element last reported (or determined) the statistical data of the first event, or the time when the original data corresponding to the statistical data of the first event last reported (or determined) by the first network element occurred. If the first network element has never reported the statistical data of the first event from the time it receives the first information (used to instruct the reporting of the statistical data of the first event) until the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, then there is no time when the statistical data of the first event was last reported (or determined). In this case, the first time can be: the time when the first network element begins to serve the terminal device, or the time when the first network element receives the first information (which can be understood as the start time of subscription), or the time when the consumer sends the first information.

[0142] For example, the second time is: the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, or the time when the first network element ends its service to the terminal device, or the time when the second network element begins its service to the terminal device, or the time when the first network element sends one or more of the following information: third information (used to indicate statistical data of reporting the first event when the first condition is met), information 1, information 2, or information 3, or the time when the second network element receives one or more of the following information: third information, information 1, information 2, or information 3.

[0143] For example, the third time is the time when the second network element determines that the first condition is met.

[0144] For example, the fourth time is the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, or the time when the second network element stops serving the terminal device.

[0145] The first duration is the duration of the reporting period (which can be understood as the duration of the consumer-instructed period); the second duration is the duration of the period after the first network element requests an update; and the third duration is the duration of the period after the second network element requests an update.

[0146] To better illustrate the embodiments of this application, the methods provided by the embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified below, the steps indicated by dashed lines in the accompanying drawings corresponding to the various embodiments of this application are optional steps. It should be noted that the technical details of the multiple embodiments provided in this application can be referenced to each other, each embodiment described below can exist independently, and multiple embodiments can also be combined with each other as an embodiment in the absence of logical errors.

[0147] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0148] Step 301: The consumer sends the first information to the first network element; correspondingly, the first network element receives the first information.

[0149] This first information is used to indicate the statistical data for reporting the first event.

[0150] Optionally, the first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistics for the first event when a first condition is met. If the first condition is periodic reporting, then the first information is used to instruct the periodic reporting of statistics for the first event. The first condition may be that the average value meets a set threshold, and / or that the variance meets a set threshold.

[0151] The first event can be related to the state transition of the terminal device, and the type of state transition can be referred to in Tables 1 and 3.

[0152] The first event can be related to the location of the terminal device, such as arriving at a certain location, which can be referred to in Table 2.

[0153] The first event may be related to the terminal device meeting certain communication characteristics, which can be referred to in Table 4.

[0154] The statistical data of the first event may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: mean, variance.

[0155] Taking "the first event is related to the state transition of the terminal device" as an example: The average value includes the average time interval between two consecutive state transitions, and / or the average duration of the resulting state; the variance includes the variance of the time interval between two consecutive state transitions and / or the variance of the duration of the resulting state. The first condition is that the average value meets a set threshold. The first condition can be that a report is issued when the average time interval between two consecutive state transitions is less than or equal to the set threshold, or when the average time interval between two consecutive state transitions is greater than or equal to the set threshold. The first condition is that the variance meets a set threshold. The first condition can be that a report is issued when the variance of the time interval between two consecutive state transitions is less than or equal to the set threshold, or when the variance of the time interval between two consecutive state transitions is greater than or equal to the set threshold. The average value in the first condition can also be the average duration, and the variance in the first condition can also be the variance of the duration. This is similar in principle to the average and variance of the time interval, and will not be elaborated further.

[0156] Taking "the first event being related to the location of the terminal device" as an example: the average value includes the average time interval between two consecutive arrivals at a certain location, and / or the average duration of stay at that location; the variance includes the variance of the time interval between two consecutive arrivals at a certain location, and / or the variance of the duration of stay at that location. Optionally, in this example, the statistical data for the first event also includes the timestamp of the last arrival at that location. In this example, the first condition is that the average value meets a set threshold, and / or the variance meets a set threshold. For further details, refer to the example of "the first event being related to the state transition of the terminal device," which will not be elaborated further.

[0157] Taking the example of "the first event being related to the terminal device satisfying a certain communication characteristic," the following is an explanation: The average value includes the average time interval between two consecutive PDU session establishment processes corresponding to the certain communication characteristic, and / or the average duration of the PDU session corresponding to that communication characteristic; the variance includes the variance of the time interval between two consecutive PDU session establishment processes corresponding to the certain communication characteristic, and / or the variance of the duration of the PDU session corresponding to that communication characteristic. Optionally, in this example, the statistical data of the first event also includes the timestamp of the last PDU session establishment process corresponding to that communication characteristic. In this example, the first condition is that the average value meets a set threshold, and / or the variance meets a set threshold. The average value and variance in the example of "the first event being related to the state transition of the terminal device" can be referenced and will not be elaborated further.

[0158] Optionally, when the first information is used to indicate the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event, the consumer may also indicate to the first network element the duration of the reporting period (also referred to as the reporting period). For ease of description, the duration of the reporting period is referred to as the first duration. The first information may also indicate the first duration, or may indicate the first duration through other information different from the first information.

[0159] Consumers can specify the reporting target to the first network element, such as the consumer itself, or a different network element / device / equipment. Alternatively, consumers can choose not to specify the reporting target to the first network element, which may default to reporting the consumer, or may default to reporting a different network element / device / equipment.

[0160] exist Figure 3 In the example, step 301 is described using "the consumer sending the first information" as an example. However, it could also be that other network elements / devices / equipment, different from the consumer, send the first information to the first network element. For example, other network elements, different from the consumer, are network elements with the same function as the first network element, such as access management network elements or session management network elements.

[0161] Optionally, the first information is used to instruct that statistical data of the first event be reported when the first condition is met; then, when the first condition is met, the first network element sends the statistical data of the first event to the consumer. When the first information is used to instruct that statistical data of the first event be reported periodically, "meeting the first condition" in this application can mean: reaching the end time of the reporting period. "Not meeting the first condition" in this application can mean: not reaching the end time of the reporting period.

[0162] Step 302: When the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element sends statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period.

[0163] For example, in step a of step 302: the first network element sends statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period to the second network element. Correspondingly, the second network element receives the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period from the first network element.

[0164] For example, in step b of step 302: the first network element sends statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period to the consumer. Correspondingly, the consumer receives the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period from the first network element.

[0165] The following is a description of the statistical data and raw data for the first event:

[0166] Information 1: Statistical data of the first event in the first time period.

[0167] The statistical data of the first event is determined based on the original data of the first event. The measurement of the statistical data of the first event includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: mean and variance. For an introduction to the mean and variance, please refer to step 301 and Tables 1 to 4 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0168] Information 2: Raw data of the first event in the first time period.

[0169] The raw data of the first event can be understood as the data provided by the first network element, or the data collected by the first network element, or the data stored (or temporarily stored, or cached) by the first network element.

[0170] For example, the raw data of the first event includes one or more of the following information: the time of occurrence of the first event, the duration, or the number of times it occurs. Taking "the first event is related to the state transition of the terminal device" as an example, if the terminal device is in state 2 at 11:00, transitions from state 2 to state 1 at 11:02, transitions from state 1 to state 2 at 11:05, and transitions from state 2 to state 1 at 11:07; then the time of occurrence of the first event can include the time of state transition, i.e., 11:02, 11:05, and 11:07; the duration of the first event can include the duration of the state after the state transition, i.e., 2 minutes, 3 minutes, and 2 minutes; the number of times the first event occurs can be the number of state transitions, i.e., 3 times.

[0171] The original data of the first event in the first time period can be replaced with: data that the first network element has collected but has not yet reported (or statistically analyzed).

[0172] The first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, with the first time being earlier than the second time. For example, the start time of the first time period is the first time, or the interval between the first time and the first time is less than a set duration threshold; the end time of the first time period is the second time, or the interval between the first time and the second time is less than a set duration threshold.

[0173] For example, the first time is the time when the first network element last reported the statistical data of the first event, or the time when the statistical data of the first event was last determined.

[0174] If from the moment the first network element receives the first information until the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element has not reported any statistics on the first event (e.g., the first condition has never been met), then there is no time when the statistics on the first event were last reported (or determined). In this case, the first time could be: the time when the first network element started serving the terminal device, or the time when the first network element received the first information (which can be understood as the start time of the subscription), or the time when the consumer sent the first information.

[0175] For example, the second time could be: the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, or the time when the first network element stops serving the terminal device.

[0176] When the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element can also send the following information 3:

[0177] Information 3: The time when the first network element last reported (or confirmed) the statistical data of the first event.

[0178] The numbering of the above information as 1, 2, and 3 is for ease of description only and does not limit the priority, importance, generation order, or usage order of the information.

[0179] If, from the moment the first network element receives the first information until the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element has not reported any statistics on the first event (e.g., the first condition has never been met), then there is no time when the first network element last reported (or confirmed) the statistics on the first event. The time when the first network element last reported (or confirmed) the statistics on the first event in information 3 can be replaced with: the time when the first network element began serving the terminal device, or the time when the first network element received the first information (which can be understood as the start time of the subscription), or the time when the consumer sent the first information. Information 3 can be the same as or different from the first time mentioned above.

[0180] For example, the first network element sends the aforementioned information 3 to the second network element. Correspondingly, the second network element receives information 3 from the first network element.

[0181] For example, the first network element sends information 3 to the consumer. Correspondingly, the consumer receives information 3 from the first network element.

[0182] In the case where the first information indicates that the statistical data of the first event is periodically reported, the period in which the "network element serving the terminal equipment switches from the first network element to the second network element" is called the first period.

[0183] Information 1 can be replaced with: Statistical data of the first event in the first cycle.

[0184] Information 2 can be replaced with: the raw data of the first event in the first cycle.

[0185] The first time can also be: the start time of the first cycle.

[0186] The "time when the first network element last reported (or confirmed) the statistics of the first event" in Information 3 can be replaced with: the start time of the first cycle, and / or, the end time of the first cycle.

[0187] One or more of the aforementioned information 1, information 2, or information 3 can be carried in the context of the terminal device and sent to the second network element. In this implementation, carrying statistical data and / or raw data in the context of the terminal device can save signaling overhead.

[0188] One possible implementation is that, after receiving information 1 and / or information 2, the second network element can determine the statistical data of the first event based on information 1 and / or information 2, and send it to the consumer. Another possible implementation is that, after receiving information 3, the second network element can know the time corresponding to the raw data and / or statistical data, and can determine the statistical period (or reporting period) based on that time.

[0189] For example, if the first information in step 301 is carried in a subscription request message, then in step b, the first network element sends a notification message to the consumer, which includes one or more of information 1, information 2, or information 3. Alternatively, if the first information in step 301 is carried in a request message, then in step b, the first network element sends a response message to the consumer, which includes one or more of information 1, information 2, or information 3.

[0190] In one possible implementation, after receiving information 1 and / or information 2, the consumer can save it for later use, such as for model training and inference based on information 1 and / or information 2. In another possible implementation, after receiving information 3, the consumer can obtain the time corresponding to the original data and / or statistical data, and then perform model training and inference based on that time.

[0191] In steps a and b above, if the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first condition may or may not be met.

[0192] The first network element can execute either step a or step b, or both steps. If both steps are executed, the order of steps a and b is not limited.

[0193] If the first network element executes steps a and b, the information sent by the first network element to the second network element and the information sent by the first network element to the consumer can be the same or different. For example, the first network element sends information 1, information 2, and information 3 to the second network element, and information 2 and information 3 to the consumer. Another example is that the first network element sends information 2 to both the second network element and the consumer. Specifically, the first network element sends the time and number of times the first event occurred within the first time period to the second network element; and the first network element sends the duration and number of times the first event occurred within the first time period to the consumer.

[0194] In this method, when a network element changes, the first network element sends out the raw data (information 1) of the first event in the first time period (e.g., to a consumer or a second network element). This allows the entity receiving the raw data (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) to perform data statistics based on this raw data (optionally, also including newly collected data), improving the accuracy of the statistical results. Furthermore, the consumer uses these statistical results for model training and inference, improving the accuracy of model training and inference. Alternatively, the consumer can use this raw data for model training and inference, further improving the accuracy of model training and inference.

[0195] The first network element sends out statistical data (information 2) for the first event in the first time period (e.g., to the consumer or the second network element), which improves the continuity of statistics. The consumer uses these continuous statistical results for model training and inference, which improves the accuracy of model training and inference. For example, after receiving this statistical data, the second network element can perform combined statistical analysis based on this data and newly collected data, and then send the results to the consumer.

[0196] The first network element sends out information 3 (e.g., to a consumer or a second network element), enabling the entity receiving information 3 (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) to know the time corresponding to the original data and / or statistical data. In scenarios where statistical data for a first event is reported periodically, information 3 can be understood as the start time of the first reporting period (the first period refers to the period in which the first network element changes to the second network element). Based on the start time of the first period, the entity receiving information 3 (e.g., the consumer or the second network element) can determine the end time of the first period, thus establishing a complete reporting period, rather than establishing a new reporting period, thereby improving the continuity of statistics.

[0197] In one possible implementation, prior to step 302, when the first event occurs, the first network element determines and saves the original data and / or statistical data of the first event (Information 1 and / or Information 2 described above). The first network element performs statistics when the first event occurs, and can save the latest statistical data. Saving the original data of the first event when it occurs avoids inaccurate statistical results due to the loss of original data.

[0198] Alternatively, when the first network element is changed to the second network element, the first network element determines and saves the statistical data of the first event.

[0199] For example, the raw data of the first event includes one or more of the following information: the time of occurrence of the first event, its duration, or the number of times it occurs. Taking "the first event is related to the state transition of the terminal device" as an example, the terminal device is in state 2 at 11:00, transitions from state 2 to state 1 at 11:02, transitions from state 1 to state 2 at 11:05, and transitions from state 2 to state 1 at 11:07. The first network element can perform the following operations:

[0200] At 11:02, save the time of the first event as 11:02, or save the duration of the first event as 2 minutes, or save the number of times the first event occurred as 1; at 11:05, save the time of the first event as 11:05, or save the duration of the first event as 3 minutes, or save the number of times the first event occurred as 2; at 11:07, save the time of the first event as 11:07, or save the duration of the first event as 2 minutes, or save the number of times the first event occurred as 3.

[0201] For example, the statistics for the first event include the average time interval between two state transitions. For the first network element at 11:02, the average time interval is determined and saved as 2 minutes; at 11:05, the average time interval is determined and saved as 2.5 minutes; and at 11:07, the average time interval is determined and saved as 2.33 minutes.

[0202] For example, the first network element stores the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the context of the terminal device; optionally, the first network element may also store the information 3 described above in the context of the terminal device; of course, one or more of information 1, information 2, or information 3 may also be stored in other locations. In this implementation, when the first event occurs, the first network element stores the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the context of the terminal device. In this way, when a network element changes, the first network element can inform the second network element of the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event through the context of the terminal device, which can save signaling overhead and avoid the data being forgotten to be informed to the second network element if it is stored elsewhere.

[0203] Taking "the network element that serves the terminal equipment as the access management network element" as an example, the following combines... Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 This section introduces several possible examples of "the first network element sending one or more of the following information to the second network element: information 1, information 2 or information 3 (step a in step 302)".

[0204] The first network element is Figure 4 The central access management network element, the second network element is Figure 4 The target access management network element in the middle, Figure 4 Includes the following steps:

[0205] Step 401: The source access management network element sends a first message to the target access management network element; correspondingly, the target access management network element receives the first message.

[0206] The first message is used to request the creation of a terminal device context. For example, the first message is a Create Terminal Device Context Request message (e.g., Namf_Communication CreateUEContextRequest).

[0207] The first message includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3. For example, the first message includes a Terminal Device Context Creation Data (UeContextCreateData) element; this Terminal Device Context Creation Data element includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3; or, the Terminal Device Context Creation Data element includes the context of the terminal device, which includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3.

[0208] Step 402: The target access management network element sends a response message of the first message to the source access management network element; correspondingly, the source access management network element receives the response message.

[0209] This response message includes indications of whether creation was successful or failed. This response message can be a terminal device context creation response message (e.g., Namf_Communication CreateUEContextReponse).

[0210] Figure 4 It can be applied to N2-based wireless access network node handover scenarios. For example, when the wireless access network node serving the terminal device is switched from the first wireless access network node to the second wireless access network node, the source access management network element (first network element) serves the first wireless access network node, and the target access management network element (second network element) serves the second wireless access network node.

[0211] The first network element is Figure 5 The initial access management network element, the second network element is Figure 5 The target access management network element in the middle, Figure 5 Includes the following steps:

[0212] Step 501: The target access management network element sends a fourth message to the source access management network element; correspondingly, the source access management network element receives the fourth message.

[0213] The fourth message is used to request a transfer of the terminal device context. This fourth message can be a terminal device context transfer request message (e.g., Namf_Communication UEContextTransferRequest).

[0214] Step 502: The source access management network element sends a second message to the target access management network element; correspondingly, the target access management network element receives the second message.

[0215] The second message is used in response to a request to transfer the terminal device context. The second message can be a terminal device context transfer response message (e.g., Namf_Communication UEContextTransferReponse).

[0216] The second message includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3. For example, the second message includes a Terminal Device Context Transfer Response Data (UeContextTransferReponseData) element; this Terminal Device Context Transfer Response Data element includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3; or, the Terminal Device Context Transfer Response Data element includes the context of the terminal device, which includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3.

[0217] Figure 5 It can be applied to scenarios involving general registration processes; or, Figure 4 It can be applied to scenarios where users register and access standalone non-public networks (SNPNs).

[0218] The first network element is Figure 6 The initial access management network element, the second network element is Figure 6 The target access management network element in the middle, Figure 6 Includes the following steps:

[0219] Step 601: The source access management network element sends a third message to the target access management network element; correspondingly, the target access management network element receives the third message from the source access management network element.

[0220] This third message is used to request the migration of the terminal device context. The third message can be a terminal device context migration request message (e.g., Namf_Communication UEContextRelocateRequest).

[0221] The third message includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3. For example, the third message includes a UEContextRelocateData element; this UEContextRelocateData element includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3; or, the UEContextRelocateData element includes the context of the terminal device, which includes one or more of the following information: Information 1, Information 2, or Information 3.

[0222] Step 602: The target access management network element sends a response message of the third message to the source access management network element; correspondingly, the source access management network element receives the response message.

[0223] This response message can be a terminal device context migration response message (e.g., Namf_CommunicationUEContextRelocateReponse).

[0224] The response message includes indications of whether the migration was successful or failed.

[0225] The response message also includes: UEContextRelocateData, which contains the context of the terminal device.

[0226] Figure 6 It can be applied to the handover scenario from an evolved packet system (EPS) to a 5G system (5GS) based on the N26 interface of the access management network element redistribution. For example, the source access management network element is the access management network element in EPS, and the target access management network element is the access management network element in 5GS.

[0227] The following combination Figure 7 This section provides an example of "the first network element sending one or more of the following information to the consumer: information 1, information 2, or information 3 (step b in step 302)".

[0228] Step 701: The first network element sends an event open notification request message to the consumer; correspondingly, the consumer receives the event open notification request message.

[0229] The event open notification request message includes one or more of the following information: Message 1, Message 2, or Message 3.

[0230] If the first network element is an AMF, the event open notification request message can be a Namf_EventExposure_Notify request message. For example, the event open notification request message includes: terminal device access behavior trend (ueAccessBehaviorTrends) attribute information element and / or terminal device location trend (ueLocationTrends) attribute information element, which includes one or more of the following information: information 1, information 2, or information 3.

[0231] If the first network element is an SMF, the event open notification request message can be an Nsmf_EventExposure_Notify request message. For example, the event open notification request message includes: user equipment session behavior trend attribute information element and / or terminal equipment communication trend attribute information element, which includes one or more of the following information: information 1, information 2 or information 3.

[0232] Step 702: The consumer sends an event open notification response message to the first network element; correspondingly, the first network element receives the event open notification response message.

[0233] If the first network element is an AMF, then the response message can be a Namf_EventExposure_Notify response message.

[0234] If the first network element is an SMF, then the response message can be an Nsmf_EventExposure_Notify response message.

[0235] The response message includes either a success or error indication. For example, an error could indicate that the consumer could not find a corresponding subscription.

[0236] In one possible implementation, when the network element serving the terminal device switches from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element can also send third information to the second network element. This third information instructs the reporting of statistical data for the first event; correspondingly, the second network element receives the third information. Optionally, the third information instructs the reporting of statistical data for the first event when a first condition is met. This third information can refer to the first information mentioned earlier and will not be repeated here. In this implementation, the first network element informs the second network element that the consumer has subscribed to the statistical data for the first event, so that the second network element can continue to perform the statistics and report the statistical data for the first event to the consumer.

[0237] The following combination Figure 8 This section presents a flowchart illustrating a communication method.

[0238] Step 801: When the network element serving the terminal device is switched from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element sends third information to the second network element, which is used to indicate the statistical data of the first event; accordingly, the second network element receives the third information.

[0239] The third piece of information can be carried in the preceding text. Figure 4 In the first news, Figure 5 In the second message, or Figure 6 In the third message.

[0240] The third message in step 801 can be replaced by the message sent by the consumer to the second network element.

[0241] Optionally, the consumer or the first network element may also indicate to the second network element the duration of the reporting period (also referred to as the reporting period). For ease of description, the duration of the reporting period will be referred to as the first duration. This third information may also indicate the first duration, or may indicate the first duration through other information different from the third information.

[0242] Step 802: When the network element serving the terminal device is switched from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element may also send one or more of the following to the second network element: information 1, information 2 or information 3; accordingly, the second network element receives these information.

[0243] In step 802, the first condition may or may not be satisfied.

[0244] The order of steps 801 and 802 is not limited. The information from steps 801 and 802 can be contained in a single message or in different messages.

[0245] Step 803: The second network element sends the first statistical data to the consumer.

[0246] Optionally, when the first condition is met, the second network element sends the first statistical data to the consumer.

[0247] For example, the second network element determines the first statistical data based on the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from the first network element in a first time period, as well as the data of the first event determined by the second network element itself (e.g., statistical data and / or raw data). In this implementation, when determining the statistical data, the second network element considers not only the data of the first event it collects, but also the raw data and / or statistical data of the first event determined by the first network element, which can improve the continuity of statistics.

[0248] For example, the data of the first event determined by the second network element itself can be the data of the first event determined by the second network element in the second time period, or the data in the second time period determined by the second network element. (See reference) Figure 2 The second time period is determined based on the second time and the third time, with the second time being earlier than the third time. For example, the start time of the second time period is the second time, or the interval between the second time and the third time is less than the set duration threshold; the end time of the second time period is the third time, or the interval between the second time and the third time is less than the set duration threshold.

[0249] The second time can be: the time when the network element served by the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, or the time when the second network element starts serving the terminal device, or the time when the first network element ends serving the terminal device, or the time when the second network element receives the third information, or the time when the second network element receives one or more of the information 1, information 2 or information 3.

[0250] The third time can be the time when the first condition is met.

[0251] In scenarios where statistics on the first event are periodically reported, the third time can be the end time of the first cycle (the cycle in which the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element). For example, if the reporting cycle is 10 minutes, and the first network element starts at 11:00, the first cycle is determined to be from 11:00 to 11:10. In the 6th minute of this cycle (11:06), the network element serving the terminal device changes to the second network element. Based on the first time (11:00), the second network element determines the end time of the reporting cycle to be 11:10. Therefore, the second time is 11:06, and the third time is 11:10.

[0252] In scenarios where statistical data for the first event is reported periodically, the third time can also be the time after adding the duration of a cycle (e.g., the first duration) to the second time. It can also be understood as the end time of a new cycle determined by the second network element based on the second time. In the example above, if the second network element determines the reporting cycle to be from 11:06 to 11:16, then the second time is 11:06 and the third time is 11:16.

[0253] Once consumers receive this initial statistical data, they can save it for later use, such as for model training and inference.

[0254] Step 804: If the first condition is not met, the network element serving the terminal device is changed from the second network element to the third network element. The second network element sends one or more of the information 3 to information 7 to the consumer and / or the third network element; accordingly, the consumer or the third network element receives one or more of the information.

[0255] Furthermore, before the first condition is met, if the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, and the second network element has not reported (e.g., not reported to the consumer) the statistical data of the first event, the second network element sends one or more of the following information to the consumer and / or the third network element. For example, in a scenario where the statistical data of the first event is reported periodically, not meeting the first condition could mean that the end time of the reporting period has not yet arrived. For example, if the reporting period is 10 minutes, the first network element starts at 11:00, determining the first period to be from 11:00 to 11:10. At the 6th minute of this period (11:06), the network element serving the terminal device changes to the second network element. The second network element determines that the first condition (the end time of the reporting period) is met at 11:10. At 11:08, the network element serving the terminal device changes again to the third network element. Since it is not yet 11:10, the second network element has not yet reported the statistical data of the first event. Alternatively, the second network element determines that the reporting period is from 11:06 to 11:16. At 11:14, the network element serving the terminal equipment changes to the third network element. Since it is not yet 11:16, the second network element has not yet reported the statistical data of the first event.

[0256] The numbers 4, 5, and 6 in the following information are for ease of description only and should not be construed as limiting the importance, priority, generation order, or usage order of the information.

[0257] Information 4: Statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period (Information 1 and / or Information 2 sent from the first network element to the second network element);

[0258] Information 5: Statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the third time period.

[0259] refer to Figure 2 The third time period is determined based on the second and fourth times. For example, the start time of the third time period is the second time, or the interval between the third and second times is less than a set duration threshold; the end time of the third time period is the fourth time, or the interval between the third and fourth times is less than a set threshold. The second time is the time when the first network element changes to the second network element. The fifth time is the time when the second network element changes to the third network element.

[0260] Information 6: Statistical data for the first event in the fourth time period.

[0261] refer to Figure 2The fourth time period can be understood as the first time period plus the third time period. In other words, the fourth time period can be determined based on the first time and the fourth time. The start time of the fourth time period is the first time, or the interval between the first time and the first time is less than a set duration threshold; the end time of the fourth time period is the fourth time, or the interval between the fourth time and the fourth time is less than the set duration threshold.

[0262] The statistical data of the first event in the fourth time period shall include at least the following four final determination methods: a) determination based on the statistical data of the first event in the first time period and the statistical data of the first event in the third time period; b) determination based on the statistical data of the first event in the first time period and the raw data of the first event in the third time period; c) determination based on the raw data of the first event in the first time period and the statistical data of the first event in the third time period; d) determination based on the raw data of the first event in the first time period and the raw data of the first event in the third time period.

[0263] Information 7: The time when the network element changes from the second network element to the third network element (e.g., the fifth time).

[0264] In this implementation, if the second network element determines that the first condition has not been met and a change has occurred, the second network element will send out the information from the first network element and the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event it has determined (e.g., to the third network element or the consumer) so that the entity receiving this information can perform data statistics based on this information, thereby improving the continuity of the statistics.

[0265] Furthermore, in scenarios where statistical data of the first event is reported periodically, the second network element can determine a third time based on information 3 (e.g., the first time). The third time can be the end time of the first cycle (the cycle in which the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element). In this implementation, the second network element can obtain the time corresponding to the raw data and / or statistical data based on the first time. For scenarios where statistical data of the first event is reported periodically, the first time can be understood as the start time of the first cycle used for reporting (the first cycle refers to the cycle in which the network element changes from the first network element to the second network element). Based on the start time of the first cycle, the second network element can determine the end time of the first cycle, thereby determining a complete reporting cycle, rather than redefining a new reporting cycle, thus improving the continuity of statistics.

[0266] In one possible implementation, after receiving one or more of the information 4, 5, or 6 mentioned above, the consumer can save it for later use, such as for model training and inference based on one or more of the information 4, 5, or 6. In another possible implementation, after receiving information 7 mentioned above, the consumer can obtain the time corresponding to the raw data and / or statistical data, and perform model training and inference based on that time.

[0267] If, after the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, and the second network element reports (e.g., reports to the consumer) the statistical data of the first event once or multiple times, the network element serving the terminal device then changes from the second network element to the third network element. For example, in a scenario where the statistical data of the first event is reported periodically, with a reporting period of 10 minutes, the first network element starts at 11:00, determining the first period as 11:00 to 11:10. In the 6th minute of this period (11:06), the network element serving the terminal device changes to the second network element, and the second network element determines to report at 11:10. The second network element reports the statistical data to the consumer at 11:10. The next reporting period is from 11:10 to 11:20. Before 11:20, the network element serving the terminal device needs to change again, for example, to the third network element. Alternatively, the second network element determines that the reporting period is from 11:06 to 11:16. The second network element reports the statistical data to the consumer at 11:16. The next reporting period is from 11:16 to 11:26. Before 11:26, the network element serving the terminal device needs to be changed again, for example, to the third network element.

[0268] At this point, the second network element can send the following data to the third network element: the time from the last time the second network element reported the statistics for the first event to the time the second network element changed to the third network element, including the raw data and / or statistics for the first event during this period. The operation performed by the second network element at this time is similar to the operation performed by the first network element described earlier.

[0269] In the case of periodically reporting statistical data of the first event (e.g., the first information in step 301 is used to indicate periodically reporting statistical data of the first event), if the first condition is not met (e.g., the end time of the reporting period has not been reached), and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the first network element may send second information to the consumer. This second information is used to indicate updating the duration of the reporting period; or, the second information is used to indicate shortening the duration of the reporting period; or, the second information is used to indicate updating the duration of the reporting period to a second duration. The duration of the reporting period indicated by the consumer to the first network element is the first duration, and the second duration is less than the first duration. After receiving the second information, the consumer can adjust the duration of the reporting period based on this second information. Optionally, to adjust the first duration to the second duration or other durations, the consumer may also send indication information to the first network element and / or the second network element, indicating that the duration of the reporting period is a third duration or other duration.

[0270] In this implementation, in a scenario where statistics of the first event are periodically reported, if a change occurs in the network element before the end time of the reporting period, for example, the terminal device may move frequently at this time, the first network element may suggest updating or shortening the duration of the reporting period. Optionally, it may also provide a suggested value for the duration of the period (e.g., a second duration).

[0271] The second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period. For example, the second duration may be the same as the duration of the first time period, or the second duration may be longer than the duration of the first time period, or the second duration may be shorter than the duration of the first time period. Alternatively, the second duration may be determined based on the time when the first network element last reported the statistical data of the first event (the start time of the first cycle, the end time of the previous cycle of the first cycle), the first time; and / or the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, or the second time.

[0272] The sending of the second information by the first network element to the consumer is decoupled from steps a and b in step 302 above. That is, the first network element can send the second information to the consumer either in the presence of steps a and / or b, or in the absence of steps a and / or b.

[0273] When periodically reporting statistical data for a first event, if the first condition is not met (the end time of the reporting period has not been reached), and the network element serving the terminal device changes from a second network element to a third network element, the second network element may send fourth information to the consumer. This fourth information may indicate an update to the duration of the reporting period; or, may indicate a shortening of the reporting period's duration; or, may indicate updating the reporting period's duration to a third duration. Upon receiving this fourth information, the consumer may adjust the reporting period's duration based on it. Optionally, to adjust the first duration to a third duration or another duration, the consumer may also send indication information to the second and / or third network element, indicating that the reporting period's duration is the third duration or another duration.

[0274] In this implementation, in a scenario where statistics of the first event are periodically reported, if a network element changes before the end time of the reporting period, for example, the terminal device may move frequently at this time, the second network element may suggest updating or shortening the duration of the reporting period. Optionally, it may also provide a suggested value for the duration of the period (e.g., a third duration).

[0275] The third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and / or the duration of the third time period. For example, the third duration is the average of the durations of the first and third time periods, or the maximum or minimum duration of the first and third time periods. Alternatively, the third duration is determined based on the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, or the second time; and / or the fourth time, or the time when the second network element changes to the third network element. In this implementation, the second network element can sense two network element changes (e.g., from the first network element to the second network element, and then from the second network element to the third network element). The second network element determines a suggested value for the period (e.g., the third duration) based on the duration of these two network element changes (e.g., the first time period and the third time period). Compared to determining the suggested value for the period based solely on the duration of any one of the network element changes, this allows for a more accurate determined suggested value.

[0276] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the first network element, the second network element, and the consumer include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to perform each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware, computer software, or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0277] Figure 9 and Figure 10 The diagram illustrates the possible communication devices provided in the embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of the first network element, the second network element, and the consumer in the above method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments.

[0278] like Figure 9 As shown, the communication device 900 may include modules or units for implementing the methods described in the embodiments above. In one possible design, the communication device 900 includes a processing unit 910 and a transceiver unit 920. Optionally, the communication device 900 may further include a storage unit 930 for storing device program code and / or data.

[0279] The communication device 900 can be the first network element in the above embodiments, or the communication module in the first network element, or the circuit, chip, or chip system in the first network element responsible for communication functions.

[0280] The transceiver unit 920 can perform the receiving and transmitting actions performed by the first network element in the above method embodiment. The processing unit 910 can perform other actions besides the transmitting and receiving actions performed by the first network element in the above method embodiment.

[0281] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is configured to: receive first information, the first information being used to indicate statistical data for reporting a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; and, in the event that the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to a second network element, transmit statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the first time being earlier than the second time, and the second time being the time when the first network element changes to the second network element; the raw data being data collected by the first network element, and the statistical data being determined based on the raw data.

[0282] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is further configured to: transmit the first time.

[0283] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is specifically configured to: transmit the context of the terminal device, the context of the terminal device including: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period.

[0284] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for the first event, including: the first information is used to instruct the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event.

[0285] In one possible implementation, the first information is further used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; the transceiver unit 920 is further used to: send second information if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached and the network element serving the terminal device has changed from the first network element to the second network element, the second information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a second duration, the second duration being less than the first duration.

[0286] In one possible implementation, the second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period.

[0287] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 910 is configured to: when the first event occurs, save the first event statistics and / or raw data in the context of the terminal device.

[0288] The communication device 900 can be the second network element in the above embodiments, or the communication module in the second network element, or the circuit, chip, or chip system in the second network element responsible for communication functions.

[0289] The transceiver unit 920 can perform the receiving and transmitting actions performed by the second network element in the above method embodiment. The processing unit 910 can perform other actions performed by the second network element in the above method embodiment besides the transmitting and receiving actions.

[0290] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is configured to: receive third information, the third information being used to indicate statistical data for reporting a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; receive statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from a first network element during a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the first time being the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element; the raw data is data provided by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

[0291] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is further configured to: send first statistical data to the consumer; wherein the first statistical data is determined based on: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, and data of the first event determined by the second network element.

[0292] In one possible implementation, the third information is used to indicate the reporting of statistical data for the first event when the first condition is met; the data of the first event collected by the second network element includes: data of the first event in a second time period, the second time period being determined based on a second time and a third time, the third time being the time when the first condition is met.

[0293] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is further configured to: receive the first time.

[0294] In one possible implementation, the third information is used to indicate statistical data for reporting the first event, including: the third information is used to indicate statistical data for periodically reporting the first event.

[0295] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is further configured to: transmit, when the end time of the reporting period has not been reached and the network element serving the terminal device has changed from the second network element to the third network element, statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, and statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the third time period; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, the fourth time being the time when the second network element changes to the third network element.

[0296] In one possible implementation, the third information is further used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, the transceiver unit 920 is further used to: send fourth information, the fourth information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration.

[0297] In one possible implementation, the third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, and the fourth time is the time when the second network element is changed to the third network element.

[0298] The communication device 900 can be the consumer in the above embodiments, or the communication module in the consumer, or the circuit, chip, or chip system in the consumer responsible for communication functions.

[0299] The transceiver unit 920 can perform the receiving and sending actions performed by the consumer in the above method embodiments. The processing unit 910 can perform other actions performed by the consumer in the above method embodiments besides the sending and receiving actions.

[0300] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is configured to: send first information to a first network element; the first information is used to indicate statistical data for reporting a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; receive statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from the first network element during a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the first time being earlier than the second time, the second time being the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element; the raw data is data provided by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

[0301] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 920 is further configured to: receive the first time.

[0302] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for the first event, including: the first information is used to instruct the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event.

[0303] In one possible implementation, the first information is further used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; the transceiver unit 920 is further used to: receive second information from the first network element, the second information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a second duration, the second duration being less than the first duration.

[0304] In one possible implementation, the second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period.

[0305] In one possible implementation, the first information is further used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; the transceiver unit 920 is further used to: receive fourth information from the second network element, the fourth information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration.

[0306] In one possible implementation, the third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, the fourth time being: the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element.

[0307] For a more detailed description of the processing unit 910 and the transceiver unit 920, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figures 3 to 8 The relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown are directly obtained and will not be repeated here.

[0308] It is understood that the division of units in the above-described device is merely a logical functional division. One function can correspond to one functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional unit. In actual implementation, all or some units can be integrated onto a single physical entity, or distributed across different physical entities. Furthermore, the aforementioned functional units can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both. Whether a function is executed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for specific applications, but such implementations should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0309] In one example, the functional unit in any of the above devices may be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above methods, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontroller units (MCUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms.

[0310] In one example, storage unit 930 may include random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, and / or registers, etc. Processing unit 910 can be implemented by a processor, and transceiver unit 920 can be implemented by a transceiver.

[0311] like Figure 10 As shown, the communication device 1000 includes a processor 1010 and an interface circuit 1020. The processor 1010 and the interface circuit 1020 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 1020 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 1000 may also include a memory 1030 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1010, or storing input data required by the processor 1010 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1010 executes instructions. Sometimes, the interface circuit 1020 can also be understood as part of the processor 1010, in which case the communication device 1000 includes the processor 1010.

[0312] When the communication device 1000 is used to implement the above-mentioned method of the first network element, the second network element and the consumer, the processor 1010 is used to implement the function of the above-mentioned processing unit 910, the interface circuit 1020 is used to implement the function of the above-mentioned transceiver unit 920, and the memory 1030 is used to implement the function of the above-mentioned storage unit 930.

[0313] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a terminal device, the terminal device chip implements the functions of the terminal device in the above method embodiments. The terminal device chip receives information from a network device, which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as an RF module or antenna) in the terminal device, and then sent to the terminal device chip by these modules. The terminal device chip sends information to a network device, which can be understood as the information being first sent to other modules (such as an RF module or antenna) in the terminal device, and then sent to the network device by these modules.

[0314] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a network device, the network device chip implements the functions of the network device in the above method embodiments. The network device chip receives information from the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, and then sent to the network device chip by these modules. The network device chip sends information to the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being sent down to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, and then sent to the terminal device by these modules. Here, the network device module can be the baseband chip of the network device, or a DU (Digital Unit) or other modules. The DU here can be a DU under the Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture.

[0315] In this application, entity A sends information to entity B, either directly or indirectly through other entities. Similarly, entity B receives information from entity A, either directly or indirectly through other entities. Entities A and B can be network devices or terminal devices, or modules within network devices or terminal devices. The sending and receiving of information can be between network devices and terminal devices, between two network devices (e.g., CU and DU), or between different modules within a single device (e.g., a terminal device chip and other modules within the terminal device, or a network device chip and other modules within the network device).

[0316] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0317] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a computer, enables the computer to perform the aforementioned communication method. Alternatively, the computer program includes instructions for implementing the aforementioned communication method.

[0318] This application also provides a computer program product, including: computer program code, which, when run on a computer, enables the computer to execute the communication method provided above.

[0319] This application also provides a communication system, which includes at least two of the following: a first network element, a second network element, and a consumer that perform the above-described communication method.

[0320] In one possible implementation, a consumer is configured to: send first information, the first information being used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; a first network element is configured to: receive the first information, and, in the event that the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, send statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the first network element changes to the second network element, and the first time being earlier than the second time; the raw data is data collected by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data; a second network element is configured to: receive the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within the first time period; and / or, the consumer is further configured to: receive the statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within the first time period.

[0321] In one possible implementation, the first information is used to instruct statistical data for reporting the first event, including: the first information is used to instruct statistical data for periodically reporting the first event.

[0322] In one possible implementation, the first information is further used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; the first network element is further used to: send second information if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, the second information being used to indicate updating the first duration to a second duration, the second duration being less than the first duration; the consumer is further used to: receive the second information.

[0323] In one possible implementation, the second network element is further configured to: send first statistical data to the consumer; wherein the first statistical data is based on: statistical data and / or raw data of a first event in a first time period, and data determination of the first event by the second network element; the consumer is further configured to: receive the first statistical data.

[0324] In one possible implementation, the second network element is further configured to: receive third information, the third information being used to instruct periodically reporting statistical data of a first event and a first duration of the reporting period, the first event being associated with a terminal device; and, if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, the fourth information being used to instruct updating the first duration to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration; the consumer is further configured to receive the fourth information.

[0325] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a base station or terminal. Of course, the processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the base station or terminal.

[0326] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive first information, the first information being used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; When the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period are sent; wherein, the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the first network element changes to the second network element, and the first time is earlier than the second time; The raw data is the data collected by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The raw data for the first event includes one or more of the following: The time when the first event occurred, the duration of the first event, or the number of times the first event occurred.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send at the first time.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The transmission of statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within the first time period includes: Send the context of the terminal device, which includes: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for the first event, including: The first information is used to instruct the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event.

6. The method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The first information is also used to indicate a first duration of the reporting period; The method further includes: If the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, a second message is sent, the second message indicating that the first duration be updated to a second duration, the second duration being shorter than the first duration.

7. The method as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, Also includes: When the first event occurs, the first event statistics and / or raw data are saved in the context of the terminal device.

9. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive third information, the third information being used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; Receive statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from a first network element within a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, and the first time is earlier than the second time; The raw data is provided by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

10. The method as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send first statistical data to the consumer; wherein the first statistical data is based on: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, and data determination of the first event by the second network element.

11. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The third information is used to indicate the statistical data of the first event to be reported when the first condition is met; The data collected by the second network element for the first event includes: The data of the first event in the second time period, the second time period being determined based on the second time and the third time, the third time being the time when the first condition is met.

12. The method according to any one of claims 9-11, characterized in that, The raw data for the first event includes one or more of the following: The time when the first event occurred, the duration of the first event, or the number of times the first event occurred.

13. The method according to any one of claims 9-12, characterized in that, Also includes: Receive the first time.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9-13, characterized in that, The third piece of information is used to indicate statistical data for reporting the first event, including: The third piece of information is used to instruct the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event.

15. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, Also includes: If the end time of the reporting period has not been reached, and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, and statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the third time period are sent; wherein the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, and the fourth time is the time when the second network element changes to the third network element.

16. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The third information is also used to indicate that when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, a fourth information is sent, the fourth information being used to indicate that the first duration is updated to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration.

17. The method as described in claim 16, characterized in that, The third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period; wherein, the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, and the fourth time is the time when the second network element is changed to the third network element.

18. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send the first message to the first network element; The first information is used to indicate the statistical data for reporting the first event, which is associated with the terminal device; Receive statistical data and / or raw data of the first event from the first network element during a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, and the first time is earlier than the second time; The raw data is provided by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data.

19. The method as described in claim 18, characterized in that, The raw data for the first event includes one or more of the following: The time when the first event occurred, the duration of the first event, or the number of times the first event occurred.

20. The method as described in claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for the first event, including: The first information is used to indicate the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event, and to indicate the first duration of the reporting period; The method further includes: The system receives second information from a first network element, which instructs the first duration to be updated to a second duration, wherein the second duration is less than the first duration.

21. The method as described in claim 20, characterized in that, The second duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period.

22. The method according to any one of claims 18-21, characterized in that, The first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for the first event, including: The first information is used to indicate the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event, and to indicate the first duration of the reporting period; The method further includes: The system receives fourth information from the second network element, the fourth information being used to indicate that the first duration be updated to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration.

23. The method as described in claim 22, characterized in that, The third duration is determined based on the duration of the first time period and the duration of the third time period; wherein, the third time period is determined based on the second time and the fourth time, and the fourth time is the time when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes modules for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-23.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, Including the processor; The processor is configured to execute some or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, and when the some or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-23.

26. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-23.

27. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes: computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1-23 to be implemented.

28. A communication system, characterized in that, include: Consumers, first network element, and second network element; among them, The consumer is configured to: send first information, the first information being used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for a first event, the first event being associated with a terminal device; The first network element is configured to: receive the first information, and, when the network element serving the terminal device changes from the first network element to the second network element, send statistical data and / or raw data of the first event within a first time period; wherein the first time period is determined based on a first time and a second time, the second time being the time when the first network element changes to the second network element, and the first time being earlier than the second time; the raw data is data collected by the first network element, and the statistical data is determined based on the raw data; The second network element is configured to: receive statistical data and / or raw data of the first event during the first time period; and / or, the consumer is further configured to: receive statistical data and / or raw data of the first event during the first time period.

29. The system as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The second network element is further configured to: send first statistical data to the consumer; wherein the first statistical data is determined based on: statistical data and / or raw data of the first event in the first time period, and data of the first event determined by the second network element; The consumer is also configured to: receive the first statistical data.

30. The system as described in claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, The first information is used to instruct the reporting of statistical data for the first event, including: The first information is used to indicate the periodic reporting of statistical data for the first event, and to indicate the first duration of the reporting period; The second network element is further configured to: receive third information, the third information being used to instruct periodically reporting statistical data of a first event and a first duration of the reporting period, the first event being associated with a terminal device; and, if the end time of the reporting period has not been reached and the network element serving the terminal device changes from the second network element to the third network element, the fourth information being used to instruct updating the first duration to a third duration, the third duration being less than the first duration; The consumer is also used to receive the fourth information.

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