Control device, communication system, and control method

Abstract

To provide a control device capable of appropriately selecting a connection control device such as AMF.SOLUTION: A control device includes a determination unit that determine a first connection control device responsible for a connection between a RAN and a core on the basis of an analysis result obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result regarding a current or future specified situation in a mobile network.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, a communication system, and a control method. [Background technology]

[0002] <Examples of distributed mobile network configurations> 5 is a diagram showing examples of the topology of a distributed mobile network. These topology are described in Non-Patent Document 1. In the Local Offload option, a User Plane Function (UPF) for data communication is located at the edge site, and a Control Plane (C-Plane) NF for processing control information is located at the central site. The UPF can either offload data traffic to a local Application Function (AF) or forward the data traffic to the central site. In both cases, the C-Plane signals are exchanged via the backhaul. This option is suitable for environments where edge nodes are less reliable or for use cases where there is no latency or capacity impact on the end-to-end service (e.g., aerial communications or live content acquisition using nomadic networks).

[0003] In the Locally Administered Edge option, AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) and SMF (Session Management Function) are deployed at the edge site, and authentication, authorization, and session management are performed at the edge. This reduces certain C-Plane signaling between the edge and the central (e.g., Service Request Procedure) because it is completed at the edge site. This option is suitable when you want to apply specific local policies to the edge or when there is a backhaul with significant latency characteristics.

[0004] In the Autonomous Edge option, all C-Plane NF functions are placed on the edge network to provide connectivity to devices within a specific area. However, this model is limited to some areas and it is difficult to provide continuous device mobility. To provide connectivity across edge networks, it is necessary to synchronize subscriber profiles. In this option, ultra-low latency is required, or this option is most suitable for deployments with very limited backhaul availability and capacity and high trust in the edge infrastructure.

[0005] Note that Figure 5 also shows the AUSF (Authentication User Service Function), UDM (Unified Data Management), PCF (Policy Control Function), UE (User Equipment) which is a 5G terminal, and gNB which is a 5G base station.

[0006] <Method of Selecting AMF from RAN> Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of the Registration procedure. A detailed description thereof will be omitted. Figure 6 extracts and shows the processing part of AMF selection. The example in Figure 6 shows an example of the procedure in UE (User Equipment), RAN (Radio Accsess Network), New AMF, and Old AMF. Note that the example in Figure 6 also shows PCF, SMF, AUSF, and UDM.

[0007] Here, registration means that when connecting to a mobile network, notifying the network of the presence and identification information of the device and setting up sessions and services for communication. It is standardized that when a UE performs registration, the RAN selects an AMF based on the following priorities (see Non-Patent Document 2).

[0008] In this priority order, if the RAN can reach the AMF corresponding to the 5G-S-Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (TMSI) or Globally Unique AMF Identifier (GUAMI) indicated by the UE, it selects that AMF. In addition, in this priority order, if the RAN cannot reach the AMF corresponding to 5G-S-TMSI or GUAMI, it selects the AMF based on the Requested NSSAI (Network Slice Selection Assistance Information). In addition, in this priority order, if the RAN cannot select an AMF based on the Requested NSSAI, it selects the default AMF. Here, 5G-S-TMSI is the Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity. Additionally, GUAMI is an identifier used to uniquely identify an AMF. In addition, the NSSAI is an identifier that represents information to assist in the selection of a network slice.

[0009] <RANとAMFのセッション> 7 is a diagram showing an example of NG Setup between a CU (Central Unit) and an AMF, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted. The example of Figure 7 shows examples of procedures in a UE, a gNB, and two AMFs (for ease of explanation, referred to as AMF#1 and AMF#2).

[0010] The CU of the RAN establishes a session called the N2 session, which is the Next Generation Application Protocol (NGAP) over the Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP). Through this N2 session, the RAN and the CN (Core Network) exchange information. For example, when the N2 session is established, the CU uses an NG Setup message to transmit a NG Setup Response, which is a message of the NGAP, to know which NSSAI the AMF supports (for example, see Non-Patent Document 3).

[0011] <nwdaf> FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of providing analysis information (analysis results) by an NWDAF (Network Data Analytics Function). The example in FIG. 8 illustrates an example of the flow of processing in a data source Network Function (NF), an NWDAF, a consumer NF, and a Network Repository Function (NRF).

[0012] The NWDAF is an NF of the 5G CN and is a function for performing data analysis. The NWDAF collects and analyzes data in the network and provides the obtained information to consumer NFs to support network optimization and service improvement. Consumer NFs can also subscribe to analysis requests (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 4).

[0013] Here, the NWDAF has the following main roles: data collection, training or retraining AI models, and data analysis. In its data collection role, the NWDAF will collect data from the NFs to input data for the generation of AI models and the generation of analytics. In its role of training or retraining AI models, the NWDAF will train or retrain AI models based on the data it collects and perform updates to the AI ​​models. In its data analysis role, the NWDAF determines which analysis to perform based on the Analytics ID sent from the consumer NF, which indicates the analysis content, and then executes that analysis. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0014] [Non-Patent Document 1] Marius Corici, et al. "A Study of 5G Edge-Central Core Network Split Options," Network 2021, 1(3), 354-368. https: / / www.mdpi.com / 2673-8732 / 1 / 3 / 20 [Non-Patent Document 2] 3GPP TS 23.502 "Procedures for the 5G System (5GS); Stage 2". [Non-Patent Document 3] 3GPP TS 38.413 "NG-RAN; NG Application Protocol (NGAP)". [Non-Patent Document 4] 3GPP TS 23.288 "Architecture enhancements for 5G System (5GS) to support network data analytics services". Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] As mentioned above, various distributed CN options are assumed in existing technologies. In a mobile network where these options are mixed, there is a possibility that an option in which AMF is placed at an edge site will be preferentially selected in order to reduce the latency of the C-Plane. However, if the CU selects an AMF without understanding the characteristics of the UE and CN, the following (Problem 1) and (Problem 2) may occur.

[0016] In (Problem 1), if an AMF that supports the Locally Administered Edge option or the Autonomous Edge option is selected as the AMF to be served by a UE that moves a lot, the area managed by the AMF becomes narrower than that of the Local Offload option, and handovers (HO) occur frequently. This could result in an increase in the number or amount of signaling to be processed in the C-Plane.

[0017] In (Problem 2), since the computational resources of edge sites are generally limited compared to those of central sites, if the serving AMF on the edge site is prioritized to reduce the latency of the C-Plane, the load on the NF located at the edge site is expected to be high. For example, when the NF is in a high-load state, selecting the Locally Administered Edge option or the Autonomous Edge option may cause degradation of the C-Plane procedure due to processing delays, which may result in unintended results (slower results).

[0018] As described above, in the conventional technology, for example, if the mixed distributed CNs were not appropriately selected, it was thought that this could cause a degradation in the quality of the C-Plane.

[0019] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has an objective of providing a control device, a communication system, and a control method that are capable of appropriately selecting a connection control device such as AMF. [Means for solving the problem]

[0020] As one configuration example, the control device includes a decision unit that decides a first connection control device responsible for connecting the RAN and the core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network.

[0021] As one configuration example, a communications system includes an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network, a first connection control device that is responsible for connecting a RAN and a core, and a control device, wherein the control device has a decision unit that decides on the first connection control device based on the analysis results obtained based on the first analysis function of the analysis device.

[0022] As one configuration example, there is provided a control method in which a control device determines a first connection control device responsible for connecting between the RAN and the core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network. Effect of the Invention

[0023] According to the control device, communication system, and control method according to the present disclosure, a connection control device such as AMF can be appropriately selected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a control device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a CN management function according to an embodiment. [Figure 2B] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an AI model management function according to an embodiment. [Figure 2C] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an analysis and generation function according to an embodiment. [Figure 2D] A diagram showing an example of an AMF determination function according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a communication system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of processing performed in a communication system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a distributed mobile network topology. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of a registration procedure. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing an example of NG SetUp between CU and AMF. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of the flow of providing analysis information (analysis results) by NWDAF.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0026] [Control Device] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a control device 11 according to an embodiment. The control device 11 is a function of the RAN, and can perform the function of the RAN including the CU and the interaction with the AMF.

[0027] The control device 11 includes a CN management unit 131 having a CN management function for managing the CN, an AI model management unit 132 having an AI (Artificial Intelligence) model management function for managing the AI model, an analysis generation unit 133 having an analysis generation function for generating analysis results, and an AMF determination unit 134 having an AMF determination function for determining the AMF.

[0028] <CN Management Function> FIG. 2A is a diagram schematically showing an example of the CN management function according to an embodiment. The CN management unit 131 has a correspondence table indicating which option of the distributed mobile network is adopted by the CN supported by each AMF. The correspondence table may be stored in the storage unit of the control device 11.

[0029] In the correspondence table, an identifier (GUAMI) unique to the AMF, an option of the distributed mobile core, a CN load rate, and information on whether NWDAF is included are associated with each other. In the example of FIG. 2A, XXX and YYY are shown as examples of GUAMI, Local Offload and Autonomous Edge are shown as examples of options for the distributed mobile core, 50% and 60% are shown as examples of the CN load rate, and YES (included) and NO (not included) are shown as examples of information on whether NWDAF is included or not.

[0030] In the corresponding table, an identifier unique to the AMF (GUAMI) is used as the unique key. For example, it manages the past results of the analysis regarding the CN (e.g., the load rate of the CN NF) generated by the analysis generation unit 133, and whether NWDAF is deployed inside each CN. Here, the CN management unit 131 periodically checks whether NWDAF is deployed inside the CN.

[0031] <AI Model Management Function> FIG. 2B is a diagram schematically showing an example of the AI model management function according to the embodiment. The AI model management unit 132 has a corresponding table for managing the AI model downloaded based on the FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name) transmitted from the NWDAF. The corresponding table may be stored in the storage unit of the control device 11. In the corresponding table, an identifier of the AI model, an identifier representing the content of the analysis (Analytics ID), and a TTL (Time to Live) are associated with each other. In the example of FIG. 2B, AAA and BBB are shown as examples of the identifier of the AI model, UE Mobility (mobility of the UE) and NF LOAD (load of the NF) are shown as examples of the identifier representing the content of the analysis, and 50% and 60% are shown as examples of the TTL.

[0032] In this correspondence table, metadata of the AI model such as the Analytics ID indicating what kind of analysis can be performed by the AI model is managed, and it also manages how long the AI model is to be stored locally or when to update the AI model (whether to request the AI model from the NWDAF again).

[0033] <Analysis generation function> FIG. 2C is a diagram schematically showing an example of the analysis generation function according to the embodiment. When the computing resources for analysis generation in the control device 11 are sufficient, the analysis generation unit 133 can execute the AI model downloaded from the NWDAF locally. On the other hand, when the computing resources for analysis generation in the control device 11 are not sufficient, the analysis generation unit 133 can send an analysis request to the NWDAF and obtain the analysis result.

[0034] In the example of FIG. 2C(A), the analysis generation function stores the AI model based on the data obtained from the RAN function such as the CU, and schematically shows the process of inputting input information into the AI model and obtaining output information as the analysis result. In this example, the AI model is downloaded and stored in the control device 11. In the example of FIG. 2C(B), the analysis generation function accesses an external NWDAF based on the data obtained from the RAN function such as the CU, inputs input information into the AI model of the NWDAF, and schematically shows the process of obtaining output information as the analysis result. In this example, the AI model is not downloaded to the control device 11, and the analysis result of the AI model stored in the external NWDAF is used.

[0035] <AMF determination function> FIG. 2D is a diagram schematically showing an example of the AMF determination function according to the embodiment. The AMF determination unit 134 makes an overall judgment based on the analysis result obtained by the analysis generation unit 133 and the analysis result stored in the CN management unit 131, and determines which AMF to select. In the example of FIG. 2D, a process is shown in which an AMF is selected based on the results of three different analyses.

[0036] Here, any method may be used as the method for making a comprehensive judgment, such as a method for making a judgment taking into consideration NF load, and a method for making a judgment taking into consideration UE mobility as a second step. As a specific example, for a UE with high mobility, a technique may be used in which an AMF that supports the Local Offload option is selected to avoid frequent handovers (HO).

[0037] [Example of a communication system] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a communication system P1 according to the embodiment. In the example of FIG. 3, a network using various mobile core networks is shown. The communication system P1 includes a RAN, a Local Offload network, a Locally Administrated Edge network, and an Autonomous Edge network.

[0038] The RAN includes a control device 11, a CU, and a DU (Distributed Unit). The control device 11, the CU, and the DU are capable of communicating with each other. The Local Offload network includes an AMF (AMF#1 in the example of FIG. 3) that can communicate with the control device 11 and the CU, and an NWDAF (NWDAF#1 in the example of FIG. 3). The network of the Locally Administrated Edge includes an AMF (AMF#2 in the example of FIG. 3) that can communicate with the control device 11 and the CU. The Autonomous Edge network includes an AMF (AMF#3 in the example of FIG. 3) and an NWDAF (NWDAF#2 in the example of FIG. 3) that can communicate with the control device 11 and the CU. It should be noted that the communication system P1 may also include components not shown in FIG.

[0039] <Example of processing in a communication system> Referring to FIG. 4, an example of processing in the communication system P1 (procedure for AMF selection by the control device 11) is shown. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of processing performed in the communication system P1 according to the embodiment. In this embodiment, the control device 11, like the CU, establishes a session (NGAP over SCTP) for each AMF.

[0040] Figure 4 shows the components of a communication system P1, including a UE, a CU (RAN), a control device 11, an AMF (AMF#1), an NRF and an NWDAF (NWDAF#1) in a Local offload network, and an AMF (AMF#2) and an NRF in a Locally Administrated Edge network. In the example of FIG. 4, the NRF in the Local Offload network is designated as NRF#1, and the NRF in the Locally Administered Edge network is designated as NRF#2.

[0041] FIG. 4 shows processes T1 to T9 and processes T21 to T30. Compared with the example of the conventional procedure, process T3, process T6, process T7, process T10, process T22, process T23, process T26, and process T29 are messages newly proposed in this embodiment. In the example of Fig. 4, for convenience of explanation, messages between the RAN (here, the control device 11) and the CN are shown in upper case letters only, and messages within the CN and messages within the RAN are shown in (both upper case and lower case letters) to distinguish between them. Note that the Registration of the process T30 by the RAN (here, the CU) is shown in (both upper case and lower case letters).

[0042] (Process T1) The control device 11 sends an NG SET UP REQUEST message to AMF#1 in the Local Offload network, and uses the message to establish a session with AMF#1 with which a CU connected to the control device 11 has established a session (NGAP over SCTP). (Process T2) AMF#1 transmits an NG SET UP RESPONSE message to the control device 11.

[0043] Here, AMF#1 has metadata indicating which of the distributed mobile core options it supports, and in this embodiment, the metadata is included in the NG SETUP RESPONSE message. As a result, in this embodiment, the control device 11 can grasp the distributed mobile core options supported by AMF#1 from the metadata. In addition, since a conventional NG SETUP message cannot include metadata indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported, in this embodiment, for example, the field of the message is expanded.

[0044] (Process T3) The control device 11 transmits a message of NG NF DISCOVERY REQUEST to the AMF#1. At this time, the same parameters as those of NF Discovery can be specified as attributes. If the NF Type is NWDAF, the control device 11 attempts to acquire information on the NWDAF deployed in the corresponding CN (for example, a compatible Analytics ID). Note that NF Discovery is a message that has already been standardized by 3GPP (registered trademark).

[0045] (Process T4) Having received the NG NF DISCOVERY REQUEST message, the AMF#1 transmits an NF Discovery Request message to the NRF instead of the control device 11, and checks whether the NWDAF#1 is deployed inside the corresponding CN. (Process T5) The NRF#1 transmits an NF Discovery Response message to the AMF#1. As a result, the AMF#1 acquires information about the NWDAF#1 contained within the CN.

[0046] (Process T6) AMF#1, which has acquired the result of NF Discovery, transmits an NG NF DISCOVERY RESPONSE message to the control device 11. AMF#1 can include the information acquired in NF Discovery in the message. The control device 11 that receives the NG NF DISCOVERY RESPONSE message updates the correspondence table of the CN management unit 131 based on the obtained information.

[0047] In (processing T7), the control device 11 transmits a message similar to that in process T3 to the AMF#2 in the network of the Locally Administered Edge. In (process T8), a message similar to that in process T4 is sent from AMF#2 to NRF#2. In (process T9), a message similar to that in process T5 is sent from NRF#2 to AMF#2. In (processing T10), the AMF#2 transmits to the control device 11 a message similar to that in process T6. Furthermore, NWDAF is not deployed in Locally Administrated Edge networks.

[0048] (Process T21) Here, it is assumed that the UE has transmitted an Initial Message to the CU (RAN). When the CU (RAN) receives an Initial Message indicating registration from the UE, it selects an AMF based on the following priorities: <Priority 1> to <Priority 4>.

[0049] In <Priority 1>, if the RAN can reach the AMF corresponding to the 5G-S-TMSI or GUAMI indicated by the UE, that AMF is selected. In <Priority 2>, if the RAN cannot reach the AMF corresponding to 5G-S-TMSI or GUAMI, it performs AMF selection based on the Requested NSSAI. In <Priority 3>, if the RAN cannot select an AMF based on the Requested NSSAI, it may query the control device 11 to select an AMF. <Priority 4> selects the AMF set as the default.

[0050] Here, in this embodiment, a new AMF selection method is added as a policy that should be prioritized third (<priority 3>), but the priority of the proposed policy may be freely set by an operator, for example. In other words, the priority in this embodiment is an example, and other priorities may be used.

[0051] Below we will show the behavior when the new proposed policy <Priority 3> is adopted. (Process T22) The CU (RAN) that has received the Initial Message transmits an AMF Selection Request message to the control device 11. Here, the CU (RAN) transmits the AMF Selection Request message together with the UE context (information data sent from the UE).

[0052] Here, the control device 11 executes one of the following <analysis and generation process A1>, <analysis and generation process B1>, or <analysis and generation process C1> for analysis and generation, depending on the presence or absence of an AI model and the status of computational resources. In addition, the NWDAF AnalyticsInfo message that requests analysis and the MLModelProvision message that requests the FQDN of an AI model are messages that have already been standardized by 3GPP (registered trademark).

[0053] The <analysis and generation process A1> is adopted when the AI ​​model management unit 132 of the control device 11 already has an AI model capable of analyzing the corresponding UE, and there are sufficient computational resources for analysis and generation. In this case, the analysis and generation unit 133 of the control device 11 executes analysis and generation using a local AI model. The process in this case can be completed inside the control device 11.

[0054] The <Analysis and generation process B1> is adopted when the control device 11 does not have an AI model capable of performing analysis of the corresponding UE and has sufficient computational resources for analysis and generation. In this case, the control device 11 transmits an NG NWDAF MLMODELPROVISION REQUEST message including necessary information (e.g., AnalyticsID or information obtained from the UE context) to the AMF to obtain the corresponding AI model. Then, the AMF transmits an NWDAF MLmodelprovision Request message to the NWDAF. At this time, the NWDAF returns an FQDN indicating the location where the AI ​​model is stored by sending an NWDAF Mlmodelprovision Response message to the AMF. In response to this, the AMF downloads the AI ​​model. The AMF then sends an NG NWDAF MLMODELPROVISION RESPONSE message including the AI ​​model and its metadata (metadata related to the AI ​​model) to the control device 11. As another example, if the AMF knows that the AI ​​model can also be downloaded from the control device 11 using the corresponding FQDN, the AMF may leave the download of the AI ​​model to the control device 11. In this case, the AMF includes the FQDN and its metadata in an NG NWDAF MLMODELPROVISION RESPONSE message and sends it to the control device 11. In this way, the download of the AI ​​model may be performed, for example, by the AMF or by the control device 11.

[0055] The analysis generation process C1 is adopted when the control device does not have sufficient computational resources for analysis generation. In this case, the control device 11 sends a NG NWDAF ANALITICSINFO REQUEST message to the AMF. In response, the AMF sends a NWDAF Analyticsinfo Request message to the NWDAF. The NG NWDAF ANALITICSINFO REQUEST message can include parameters similar to those of the NWDAF AnalyticsInfo message. The NWDAF generates an analysis result by an AI model and transmits an NWDAF Analyticsinfo Response message including the analysis result to the AMF. The AMF transmits an NG NWDAF ANALITICSINFO RESPONSE message including the analysis result to the control device 11. This conveys the analysis result to the control device 11. In addition, the NG NWDAF ANALITICSINFO RESPONSE message has a field that can include the analysis results obtained from the NWDAF.

[0056] Here, the <analysis and generation process A1>, the <analysis and generation process B1>, and the <analysis and generation process C1> are each an example, and the configuration of this embodiment does not necessarily have to be used. For example, the items related to these processes may be freely set by the operator. As an example, a process for requesting an analysis result from the NWDAF (a process similar to the <analysis and generation process C1>) may be set to be performed every time. In addition, when the control device 11 makes an inquiry to multiple different NWDAFs, the AI ​​model or analysis result of the NWDAF that responds first, or the AI ​​model or analysis result of an NWDAF randomly selected by the control device 11 may be adopted as the AI ​​model or analysis result to be used for AMF selection.

[0057] Here, (Process T23) to (Process T26) collectively show the process procedure when <Analysis and generation process B1> or <Analysis and generation process C1> is performed. Note that, when <Analysis and generation process A1> is performed, (Process T23) to (Process T26) are not performed. (Process T23) Having received the AMF Selection Request message, the control device 11 transmits a NG NWDAF ANALYTICSINFO REQUEST message or a NG NWDAF MLMODELPROVISION REQUEST message to the AMF#1. (Process T24) Upon receiving this message, AMF#1 transmits an NWDAF Analyticsinfo Request or an NWDAF Mlmodelprovision Request message to NWDAF#1. (Process T25) Having received this message, NWDAF#1 transmits an NWDAF Analyticsinfo Response or an NWDAF Mlmodelprovision Response message to AMF#1. (Process T26) The AMF#1 that has received this message transmits a NG NWDAF ANALYTICSINFO RESPONSE or NG NWDAF MLMODELPROVISION RESPONSE message to the control device 11.

[0058] (Process T27) The control device 11 acquires the result of analysis and generation by the analysis and generation unit 133. Here, the control device 11 performs either a process of acquiring the result of analysis and generation completed in the control device 11 using an AI model (the result of analysis and generation), or a process of acquiring the result of analysis and generation completed in the control device 11 using an AI model by an external NWDAF (the result of analysis and generation) via the AMF.

[0059] (Process T28) The control device 11 determines which AMF to select by the AMF determination unit 134. Here, the control device 11 comprehensively judges and determines which AMF to select, for example, based on the result obtained by the analysis generation unit 133 and the result stored in the CN management unit 131. As a method for this determination, for example, a method of considering the NF load and considering UE mobility at the following points may be used. (Process T29) The control device 11 transmits a message of AMF Selection Response to the CU (RAN). (Process T30) In this example, by this message, the CU (RAN) transmits a Registration message to AMF #2 in the Locally Administrated Edge network.

[0060] <Configuration in which the function of the control device is included in the CU> Here, in the example of FIG. 3, the case where the control device 11 is provided separately from the CU is shown. However, as another example, the function of the control device 11 may be included in the CU. When the control device 11 is incorporated as a module of the CU, it is not necessary to establish a session with the AMF separately from the CU for the control device 11. For example, in the processing flow shown in FIG. 4, the message of AMF Selection Request related to Process T22 and the message of AMF Selection Response related to Process T29 do not occur.

[0061] As described above, in the control device 11 according to the present embodiment, the AMF can be appropriately selected. In the present embodiment, as an element for the control device 11 to select the AMF, the analysis result obtainable from the AI model generated by the NWDAF is adopted. Thereby, it can be forwarded to a mobile network suitable for the characteristics of each UE (for example, it may be a distributed mobile network), and the efficiency of the entire mobile network (for example, improvement of signal efficiency) or high-speed processing of the C-Plane can be realized.

[0062] In this embodiment, the control device 11 uses analysis results based on the NWDAF AI model, for example, analysis results regarding one or more of NF load information or UE mobility information, etc., thereby making it possible to select an AMF that supports a CN suitable for each UE. In this embodiment, for example, in a form in which various distributed mobile cores exist, the control device 11 can intelligently select an AMF from analysis results obtained from communication with the core network (e.g., indirect communication with the NWDAF). In this way, in this embodiment, it is possible to provide an AMF selection method utilizing NWDAF, a procedure for realizing such an AMF selection method, and the like.

[0063] Regarding the above (Problem 1), the control device 11 can grasp that the corresponding UE is actively moving in a certain time period, for example, by UE mobility analysis. As a result, the control device 11 can select, for example, an AMF that supports the Local Offload option in order to avoid frequent signaling in the C-Plane. Regarding the above (Problem 2), in the control device 11, for example, if the RAN has information regarding the load analysis of the NFs of each CN, the control device 11 can select a CN with a low load to achieve load balancing, thereby enabling the C-Plane procedure to be completed quickly.

[0064] In addition, an advantage of using the AI ​​model generated by the NWDAF is that it is possible to save the effort of generating an AI model again in the RAN. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to obtain an analysis result using the AI ​​model generated by the NWDAF in the RAN, or to inquire about the analysis result from the NWDAF, and also possible to select an AMF from such an analysis result. In this embodiment, it is possible to provide a device (for example, the control device 11), a system (for example, the communication system P1), an interface, or a procedure for achieving such effects.

[0065] Here, the control device 11 according to the present embodiment may be applied to another communication system having a different configuration from the communication system shown in the present embodiment. For example, in the other communication system, a functional unit similar to the AMF or NWDAF (or a similar functional unit) may be called by a different name.

[0066] As one configuration example, the control device (in this embodiment, the control device 11) is equipped with a determination unit (in this embodiment, the AMF determination unit 134) that determines a first connection control device (in this embodiment, the first AMF, which is an example of an AMF) that is responsible for the connection between the RAN and the core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function (in this embodiment, the AI ​​model) of an analysis device (in this embodiment, the NWDAF) that has a function of outputting analysis results regarding a current or future specific situation in a mobile network (which may be, for example, a distributed mobile network). Therefore, the control device can appropriately select the first connection control device. As a specific example, the control device can select an appropriate first connection control device from the analysis results obtained based on the AI ​​model learned by the analysis device (in this embodiment, the NWDAF).

[0067] The control device is included in the RAN, for example. Here, various conditions may be used as the predetermined condition in the analysis result regarding the predetermined condition, for example, a condition regarding the load in the network, or a condition regarding the mobility of the UE, etc. may be used. Furthermore, the analysis result regarding the current predetermined situation may be obtained, for example, by performing a predetermined analysis based on data accumulated up to the present time. In addition, the analysis results regarding a specified future situation may be obtained, for example, by performing a specified analysis based on data accumulated up to the present, in which case the analysis may be an analysis using an AI model. Furthermore, the method for determining the first connection control device is not particularly limited, and various methods may be used.

[0068] As one configuration example, the control device includes an analysis function management unit (in this embodiment, AI model management unit 132) that manages the results obtained from a second analysis function (in this embodiment, a second AI model which is an example of an AI model) corresponding to a first analysis function (in this embodiment, a first AI model which is an example of an AI model) via communication with a second connection control device (in this embodiment, a second AMF which is an example of an AMF), and a first analysis generation unit (in this embodiment, analysis generation unit 133) that generates analysis results by the second analysis function. Therefore, the control device can indirectly obtain the second analysis function from the analysis device via, for example, the second connection control device (in this embodiment, any AMF).

[0069] Here, as an example, the control device may download the second analysis function from the second connection control device (in this embodiment, any AMF). As another example, the control device may obtain access information (e.g., FQDN) to the second analysis function from a second connection control device (in this embodiment, any AMF) and download the second analysis function based on the access information.

[0070] Furthermore, the second connection control device that the control device accesses (eg, makes an inquiry to) is not particularly limited, and for example, the control device may randomly access the second connection control device. Furthermore, the number of second connection control devices that a control device accesses (eg, makes an inquiry to) may be one or may be multiple.

[0071] In addition, the second connection control device (eg, the second AMF) may be the same device as the first connection control device (eg, the first AMF), or may be a different device. Furthermore, the second analysis function (eg, the second AI model) may be substantially the same analysis function as the first analysis function (eg, the first AI model), but for convenience of explanation, they are distinguished by being given different names.

[0072] In one configuration example, the second connection controller communicates metadata to the controller indicating which distributed mobile core options it supports. Thus, the controller can know the distributed mobile core options supported by the second connection controller and appropriately select the first connection controller based on that information.

[0073] As one configuration example, the control device is equipped with a second analysis and generation unit (in this embodiment, analysis and generation unit 133) that acquires analysis results by the first analysis function via communication with a third connection control device (in this embodiment, a third AMF, which is an example of an AMF). Therefore, the control device can indirectly obtain the analysis result from the analysis device via, for example, the third connection control device (in this embodiment, any AMF).

[0074] Here, the third connection control device that the control device accesses (eg, makes an inquiry to) is not particularly limited, and for example, the control device may randomly access the third connection control device. Furthermore, the number of third connection control devices that the control device accesses (eg, makes an inquiry to) may be one or may be multiple.

[0075] In addition, the third connection control device (for example, the third AMF) may be the same device as the first connection control device (for example, the first AMF), or may be a different device. Also, the third connection control device (eg, the third AMF) may be the same device as the second connection control device (eg, the second AMF), or may be a different device. In addition, in this embodiment, a case has been shown in which the functions of the first analysis and generation unit and the second analysis and generation unit are provided in the same component (in this embodiment, the analysis and generation unit 133), but these functions may also be provided in separate components.

[0076] In one configuration, the third connection controller communicates metadata to the controller indicating which distributed mobile core options it supports. Thus, the controller can know the distributed mobile core options supported by the third connection controller and appropriately select the first connection controller based on that information.

[0077] As one configuration example, the control device includes a CN management section (in this embodiment, the CN management section 131) that manages the CN. The determination section determines the first connection control device based on the contents of management by the CN management section. Therefore, the control device can appropriately select the first connection control device based on the management contents of the CN.

[0078] For example, a communications system may be provided. As an example configuration, the communication system includes an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result related to a current or future situation in a mobile network, a first connection control device that is responsible for a connection between a RAN and a core, and a control device. The control device includes a determination unit that determines the first connection control device based on the analysis result obtained based on the first analysis function of the analysis device.

[0079] For example, a control method may be provided. As one configuration example, in the control method, the control device determines a first connection control device responsible for the connection between the RAN and the core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in the mobile network.

[0080] As one configuration example, the control device 11 can provide an interface for establishing a session (NGAP over SCTP) with an AMF (any AMF).

[0081] In one configuration example, an AMF may be provided that has (eg, stores) metadata indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported. As one configuration example, it is possible to provide an AMF that notifies the metadata to an external device (in this embodiment, the control device 11). As the external device, various devices may be used.

[0082] [About the above embodiment] As a result, it will be possible to improve the overall service quality in wireless networks, for example, and thereby contribute to Goal 9 of the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which is to "build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation."

[0083] A program for implementing the functions of any of the components of any of the above-described devices may be recorded in a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be read into a computer system and executed. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an operating system or peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CDs (Compact Discs)-ROMs (Read Only Memory), and storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also refers to storage devices that hold a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory inside a computer system that becomes a server or a client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The volatile memory may be, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory). The recording medium may be, for example, a non-transitory recording medium.

[0084] The above-mentioned program may be transmitted from a computer system in which the program is stored in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" that transmits the program refers to a medium that has a function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The above program may be for implementing some of the above functions. Furthermore, the above program may be a so-called differential file that can implement the above functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system. The differential file may be called a differential program.

[0085] In addition, the function of any of the components in any of the above-described devices may be realized by a processor. For example, each process in the embodiment may be realized by a processor that operates based on information such as a program and a computer-readable recording medium that stores information such as a program. Here, the functions of each part of the processor may be realized by individual hardware, or the functions of each part may be realized by integrated hardware. For example, the processor may include hardware, and the hardware may include at least one of a circuit that processes digital signals and a circuit that processes analog signals. For example, the processor may be configured using one or more circuit devices mounted on a circuit board, or one or both of one or more circuit elements. An IC (Integrated Circuit) or the like may be used as the circuit device, and a resistor or a capacitor or the like may be used as the circuit element.

[0086] Here, the processor may be, for example, a CPU. However, the processor is not limited to a CPU, and various processors such as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) or a DSP (Digital Signal Processor) may be used. The processor may be, for example, a hardware circuit using an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The processor may be, for example, a plurality of CPUs, or a hardware circuit using a plurality of ASICs. The processor may be, for example, a combination of a plurality of CPUs and a hardware circuit using a plurality of ASICs. The processor may include, for example, one or more of an amplifier circuit or a filter circuit that processes an analog signal.

[0087] Although the embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and designs that do not deviate from the gist of this disclosure are also included. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 11: control device, 131: CN management unit, 132: AI model management unit, 133: analysis and generation unit, 134: AMF determination unit, P1: communication system< / nwdaf>

Claims

1. A determination unit that determines a first connection control device that is responsible for a connection between the RAN and the core based on an analysis result obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result related to a current or future predetermined situation in the mobile network. Control device.

2. an analysis function management unit that manages a result obtained by a second analysis function corresponding to the first analysis function through communication with a second connection control device; a first analysis generating unit that generates an analysis result by the second analysis function; The control device of claim 1 .

3. The second connection control device communicates metadata to the control device indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported. The control device according to claim 2.

4. a second analysis generating unit that acquires an analysis result by the first analysis function through communication with a third connection control device; The control device according to claim 1 .

5. The third connection control device communicates metadata to the control device indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported. The control device according to claim 4.

6. The analytical device is a NWDAF, the first analysis function is an AI model; The first connection control device is a first AMF, The control device is included in the RAN. The control device according to claim 1 .

7. the second connection control device is a second AMF; the first analysis function is a first AI model; The second analysis function is a second AI model corresponding to the first AI model. The control device according to claim 2 or 3.

8. the third connection control device is a third AMF; The first analysis function is an AI model. The control device according to claim 4 or 5.

9. A CN management unit for managing a CN is provided, The determination unit determines the first connection control device based on the management contents by the CN management unit. The control device according to claim 1 .

10. A communication system including an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result regarding a current or future predetermined situation in a mobile network, a first connection control device that is responsible for a connection between a RAN and a core, and a control device, The control device includes a determination unit that determines the first connection control device based on an analysis result obtained based on a first analysis function of the analysis device. Communication systems.

11. The control device determines a first connection control device that is responsible for a connection between the RAN and the core based on an analysis result obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result regarding a current or future predetermined situation in the mobile network; Control methods.

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