Communication control apparatus and communication control method

Abstract

To provide a communication device that suppresses deterioration in quality of radio communication using an unlicensed band.SOLUTION: A control unit including a traffic prediction unit that acquires predictive traffic predicted on the basis of a communication status of x-haul that is a communication path from a core network to a first base station, an available band prediction unit that acquires a predicted available band, and a band determination unit that determines whether or not the predictive traffic is larger than the predicted available band, when the first base station that performs communication with the user equipment performs communication using an unlicensed band in at least a part of the x-haul, the controller notifies a second base station connected to the same core network as the first base station of a margin of an available band according to a determination result of the band determination unit, and controls communication between the first base station and the user equipment.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 23

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Wireless communication using unlicensed bands has been known in the past. Since unlicensed bands are generally available for anyone to use, various types of wireless communication devices perform wireless communication using unlicensed bands.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a communication device that allocates communication resources in response to communication requests from an unspecified number of wired or wireless communication devices according to the content of communication data. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-243018 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the communication device described in Patent Document 1 does not take into consideration interference that may occur between wireless communication devices when an unspecified number of wireless communication devices communicate wirelessly using unlicensed bands, which may result in a decrease in communication quality and user experience in wireless communication using unlicensed bands.

[0006] Non-limiting examples of the present disclosure contribute to providing a communication device that suppresses degradation in the quality of wireless communication using unlicensed bands. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A communication control device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a control unit including: a traffic prediction unit that acquires predicted traffic based on the communication conditions of an x-haul, which is a communication path from a core network to a first base station; an available band prediction unit that acquires a predicted available band; and a band determination unit that determines whether the predicted traffic is larger than the predicted available band. When the first base station that communicates with a user equipment communicates using an unlicensed band for at least a part of the x-haul, the control unit notifies a second base station connected to the same core network as the first base station of the margin of the available band according to the determination result of the band determination unit, and controls communication between the first base station and the user equipment.

[0008] A communication control method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when a first base station communicating with user equipment communicates using an unlicensed band for at least a portion of an x-haul, which is a communication path from a core network to the first base station, obtains predicted traffic based on the communication status of the x-haul, obtains a predicted available bandwidth, and, depending on a determination result of whether the predicted traffic is greater than the predicted available bandwidth, notifies a second base station connected to the same core network as the first base station regarding the margin of the available bandwidth, thereby controlling communication between the first base station and the user equipment.

[0009] These comprehensive or specific aspects may be realized as a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, or a recording medium, or may be realized as any combination of a system, an apparatus, a method, an integrated circuit, a computer program, and a recording medium. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a communication device that suppresses degradation in the quality of wireless communication using unlicensed bands.

[0011] Further advantages and benefits of an embodiment of the present disclosure will become apparent from the specification and drawings. Such advantages and / or benefits may be provided by some of the embodiments and features described in the specification and drawings, respectively, but not necessarily all of them may be provided to obtain one or more identical features. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of traffic fluctuation according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of traffic prediction according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of details of each block constituting a communication device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a request transmitted from a calculation unit to an allocation unit and a response transmitted from the allocation unit to the calculation unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing threshold values ​​in each operation mode of a communication device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a relationship between a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in a first mode according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a relationship between a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in a second mode according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a relationship between a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in a third mode according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a relationship between a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in a fourth mode according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of packet transmission when a communication device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is applied. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a comparison between packet transmission when the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is applied and packet transmission when a communication device without a bandwidth reservation function is applied. [Figure 14] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of prediction of a predicted fixed bandwidth by a fixed bandwidth prediction unit according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] 1 is a flowchart showing an example of prediction of a predicted fluctuation band by a fluctuation band prediction unit according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of calculation of a reserved fixed bandwidth and a reserved variable bandwidth by a calculation unit according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an example of allocation of a set fixed bandwidth and a set variable bandwidth by an allocation unit according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of dual connectivity in a network according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a second base station according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control device server according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control device client according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first bandwidth determination according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second bandwidth determination according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, more detailed explanation than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed explanation of already well-known matters or redundant explanation of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following explanation and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0014] The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0015] Network Overview The network 200 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the network 200 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Fig. 1, the network 200 is configured with elements having the functions of a communication device 1, a CU (Centralized Unit) 2, an AP (Access Point) 3, STAs (Station Units) 5 (51, 52, 53), DUs (Distributed Units) 6 (61, 62, 63), and RUs (Radio Units) 7 (71, 72, 73).

[0016] The network 200 is, for example, an x-haul used in a 5G network. The x-haul is composed of a backhaul, a fronthaul, and a midhaul.

[0017] The core network 100 is configured with elements having functions such as an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), a Session Management Function (SMF), and a User Plane Function (UPF). These functions perform connection management for the user equipment 105, session management, and transfer of user data.

[0018] The communication device 1 predicts traffic in the unlicensed band transmitted from the AP 3 to the STA 5 (51, 52, 53) in advance, and reserves the band based on the prediction. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, "band" refers to communication resources.

[0019] CU2 is, for example, one of the elements of a 5G network, and controls the entire network 200. It has network management functions such as service distribution to users, session management, and security-related functions such as authentication and authorization, and coordinates communications between base stations (points where data is transmitted). CU2 may also be referred to as a central control unit.

[0020] The AP 3 functions as a base station, for example, and transmits and receives wireless signals to and from the surrounding STA 5, which connects to the network 200.

[0021] STA5 (51, 52, 53) is a station connected to the network. For example, STA5 communicates with the network 200 via AP3. STA5 and AP3 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other via wireless communication using an unlicensed band.

[0022] The DUs 6 (61, 62, 63) are located near the base station and perform signal processing for wireless communication between users and the base station. For example, the DUs 6 generate and analyze wireless signals and convert between RF signals and digital data.

[0023] The RUs 7 (71, 72, 73) transmit radio signals and transmit and receive data to and from user devices. For example, the RUs 7 communicate with each device via an antenna.

[0024] Traffic forecasting Traffic prediction will be described with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of approximation of traffic fluctuation in an unlicensed band according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a traffic prediction model according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] The vertical axis of the graph in Figure 2 represents bandwidth, and the horizontal axis represents time. The solid line P indicates the time-series fluctuation of traffic.

[0026] The communication device 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure decomposes traffic into a fixed bandwidth A and a variable bandwidth B, and predicts future traffic.

[0027] The time series fluctuations of the fixed bandwidth A are macroscopic (quasi-static) fluctuations. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, macroscopic fluctuations refer to fluctuations over a large range or a long period of time. For example, macroscopic fluctuations are fluctuations that are influenced by time of day, day of the week, location, weather, season, etc. A predicted fixed bandwidth A1, which will be described later, is a bandwidth that corresponds to the quasi-statically fluctuating traffic volume.

[0028] The time series fluctuations in the fluctuation band B are micro (dynamic) fluctuations. In the embodiment of the present disclosure, micro fluctuations refer to short-term or instantaneous fluctuations. For example, micro fluctuations are fluctuations that correspond to the behavior of individual users or sudden occurrences such as events. The predicted fluctuation band B1, which will be described later, is a band that corresponds to dynamically fluctuating traffic volume.

[0029] The communication device 1 predicts a future fixed bandwidth from the current fixed bandwidth to obtain a predicted fixed bandwidth A1. The communication device 1 also predicts a future variable bandwidth from the current variable bandwidth to obtain a predicted variable bandwidth B1.

[0030] 3, the communication device 1 applies the acquired environmental information to a macro fluctuation model and predicts the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 through time-series data prediction using AI (Artificial Intelligence). For example, the environmental information is information that includes macro-variable factors, such as time of day, day of the week, location, weather, and season.

[0031] Furthermore, the communication device 1 applies the acquired traffic information to a micro-fluctuation model and predicts the predicted fluctuation band B1 through time-series data prediction using AI. For example, the traffic information is information that includes elements that fluctuate at a micro-level, such as the behavior of individual users and sudden occurrences such as events.

[0032] Communication device 1 block configuration An outline of the block configuration of the communication device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] The communication device 1 includes an acquisition unit 10, a prediction unit 20, a calculation unit 30, and an allocation unit 40.

[0034] The acquisition unit 10 acquires environmental information and traffic information from the core network 100. The acquisition unit 10 transmits the acquired traffic information and environmental information to the prediction unit 20.

[0035] The prediction unit 20 predicts a predicted fixed bandwidth A1 based on the environmental information received from the acquisition unit 10. The prediction unit 20 predicts a predicted fluctuation bandwidth B1 based on the traffic information received from the acquisition unit 10. The prediction unit 20 transmits the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted fluctuation bandwidth B1 to the calculation unit 30.

[0036] The prediction unit 20 may be configured to not transmit the predicted fixed band A1 to the calculation unit 30, but to transmit the predicted fluctuation band B1 to the calculation unit 30. Conversely, the prediction unit 20 may be configured to transmit the predicted fixed band A1 to the calculation unit 30, but not to transmit the predicted fluctuation band B1 to the calculation unit 30. A band including either the predicted fixed band A1 or the predicted fluctuation band B1 may be referred to as a predicted band, and the prediction unit 20 may transmit the predicted band to the calculation unit 30. A band including both the predicted fixed band A1 and the predicted fluctuation band B1 may also be referred to as a predicted band.

[0037] The calculation unit 30 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 based on the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 received from the prediction unit 20. The calculation unit 30 also calculates the reserved variable bandwidth B2 based on the predicted variable bandwidth B1 received from the prediction unit 20. The calculation unit 30 transmits the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 as a request to the allocation unit 40.

[0038] The calculation unit 30 may be configured to not transmit the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 to the allocation unit 40, but to transmit the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to the calculation unit 30. Conversely, the calculation unit 30 may be configured to transmit the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 to the allocation unit 40, but not to transmit the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to the calculation unit 30. A bandwidth including either the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 or the reserved variable bandwidth B2 may be referred to as the reserved bandwidth, and the calculation unit 30 may transmit the reserved bandwidth to the allocation unit 40. A bandwidth including both the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 may also be referred to as the reserved bandwidth.

[0039] The allocating unit 40 allocates the reserved bandwidth (reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2) received from the calculating unit 30 to AP3. The allocating unit 40 acquires the fixed bandwidth and variable bandwidth actually allocated to AP3 as set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3. The allocating unit 40 transmits the acquired set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 to the calculating unit 30 as a response. The set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 received by the calculating unit 30 are stored in the database 32 of the calculating unit 30 (see FIG. 5).

[0040] For example, the reserved fixed band A2 is allocated to AP3 using a time division multiple access (TDMA) scheme, and the reserved variable band B2 is allocated to AP3 using a contention-based access period (CBAP) scheme.

[0041] TDMA divides a communication channel into small time slots and assigns each slot to a different data stream. This allows multiple users to communicate by sharing the same frequency band. On the other hand, CBAP avoids contention (collision) when multiple devices try to transmit data at the same time by having each device transmit data at random times. By combining these methods to allocate bandwidth, it is possible to maximize communication efficiency and optimize bandwidth usage.

[0042] In addition, if the allocating unit 40 cannot allocate all of the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 received from the calculating unit 30 to AP3, the allocating unit 40 acquires the bandwidth of the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 that can actually be allocated to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0043] The allocating unit 40 adjusts the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to allocate the bandwidth of the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 that could not actually be allocated to AP3 to AP3. The allocating unit 40 acquires the reserved variable bandwidth B2 that has been adjusted and allocated to AP3 as the set variable bandwidth B3. The allocating unit 40 transmits the acquired set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 to the calculating unit 30 as a response.

[0044] The allocating unit 40 may be configured to not transmit the set fixed band A3 to the calculating unit 30, but to transmit the set variable band B3 to the calculating unit 30. Conversely, the allocating unit 40 may be configured to transmit the set fixed band A3 to the calculating unit 30, but not to transmit the set variable band B3 to the calculating unit 30. A band including either the set fixed band A3 or the set variable band B3 may be referred to as a set band, and the allocating unit 40 may be referred to as transmitting the set band to the calculating unit 30. A band including both the set fixed band A3 and the set variable band B3 may also be referred to as a set band.

[0045] The communication device 1 may be configured to be included in the CU 2 or the AP 3. Furthermore, any one of the acquisition unit 10, the prediction unit 20, the calculation unit 30, and the allocation unit 40 included in the communication device 1 may be configured to be included in the CU 2 or the AP 3.

[0046] Furthermore, the functions of the acquisition unit 10, the prediction unit 20, the calculation unit 30, and the allocation unit 40 may be realized by a computer program, and any of these functions may be included in the CU2 or AP3.

[0047] Details of each block constituting the communication device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of details of each block constituting the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a request transmitted from the calculation unit to the allocation unit and a response transmitted from the allocation unit to the calculation unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] The acquisition unit 10 includes an environmental information acquisition unit 11 and a traffic information acquisition unit 12 .

[0049] The environmental information acquisition unit 11 acquires environmental information. For example, the environmental information is information including factors that cause macro fluctuations in traffic, such as time of day, day of the week, location, weather, and season. The environmental information acquisition unit 11 periodically acquires the environmental information. The environmental information acquisition unit 11 transmits the acquired environmental information to the prediction unit 20.

[0050] The traffic information acquisition unit 12 acquires traffic information. For example, as described above, the traffic information is information including elements that cause traffic to fluctuate at a micro level, such as the behavior of individual users and sudden occurrences such as events. The traffic information acquisition unit 12 periodically acquires traffic information. For example, the traffic information acquisition unit 12 acquires traffic information from the core network 100 at intervals of several milliseconds. The traffic information acquisition unit 12 transmits the acquired traffic information to the prediction unit 20.

[0051] The prediction unit 20 includes a fixed band prediction unit 21 and a variable band prediction unit 22 .

[0052] The fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 based on the environmental information received from the acquisition unit 10. For example, as described above, the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 using time-series data prediction by AI. The fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 transmits the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 to the calculation unit 30.

[0053] The fluctuation band prediction unit 22 predicts the predicted fluctuation band B1 based on the traffic information received from the acquisition unit 10. For example, as described above, the fluctuation band prediction unit 22 predicts the predicted fluctuation band B1 using time-series data prediction by AI. The fluctuation band prediction unit 22 transmits the predicted fluctuation band B1 to the calculation unit 30.

[0054] The calculation unit 30 includes a calculation control unit 31 and a database 32. The communication device 1 may be configured to include an element having a function equivalent to that of the database 32 outside the calculation unit 30. The network 200 may be configured to include an element having a function equivalent to that of the database 32.

[0055] The calculation control unit 31, for example, performs overall control and calculations of the calculation unit 30. The calculation control unit 31 includes, for example, a processor (such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit)) that performs control and calculations.

[0056] The calculation control unit 31 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 based on the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 received from the prediction unit 20. The calculation control unit 31 transmits the calculated reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2 as a request to the allocation unit 40. An example of the request transmitted from the calculation control unit 31 to the allocation unit 40 is shown in FIG.

[0057] The database 32 stores the set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 that the allocation unit 40 actually allocates to the AP 3. The set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 stored in the database 32 are referenced by the calculation control unit 31 when the calculation control unit 31 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2.

[0058] The allocation unit 40 includes an allocation control unit 41 and an allocation band acquisition unit 42 .

[0059] The allocation control unit 41, for example, performs overall control and calculations of the allocation unit 40. The allocation control unit 41, for example, has a processor (CPU, GPU, FPGA, ASIC, etc.) that performs control and calculations.

[0060] The allocation control unit 41 allocates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2 received from the calculation unit 30 to AP3. The allocation control unit 41 determines whether the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2 received from the calculation unit 30 can be allocated to AP3.

[0061] If the allocation control unit 41 determines that the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 can be allocated to AP3, the allocation control unit 41 allocates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to AP3.

[0062] If the allocation control unit 41 determines that the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 cannot be allocated to AP3, the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 are adjusted and allocated to AP3.

[0063] The allocated bandwidth acquisition unit 42 acquires the fixed bandwidth and variable bandwidth actually allocated to AP3 by the allocation control unit 41 as a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a set variable bandwidth B3. The allocated bandwidth acquisition unit 42 transmits the acquired set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 as a response to the calculation unit 30. An example of the response transmitted from the allocated bandwidth acquisition unit 42 to the calculation unit 30 is shown in FIG.

[0064] Communication device 1 operation mode An example of an operation mode of the communication device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing thresholds in each mode of the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] The communication device 1 operates in multiple operation modes depending on the use case and situation. Here, four of the multiple operation modes of the communication device 1 will be described as an example. The calculation unit 30 and the calculation control unit 31 adjust the reserved fixed bandwidth A2, causing the communication device 1 to change its operation mode. Changing the operation mode of the communication device 1 is expected to result in safer packet transmission and more efficient use of communication resources that take into account the communication status of other terminals.

[0066] The calculation control unit 31 adjusts the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 based on the difference d. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the difference d is defined as the difference between the set fixed bandwidth A3 currently allocated to AP3 and stored in the database 32 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1.

[0067] If the set fixed bandwidth A3 is smaller than the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 (difference d<0) and the difference d is smaller than the threshold a, the communication device 1 changes the operation mode based on the threshold a.

[0068] When the threshold value a is −1 Mbps, the operation mode of the communication device 1 is the first mode. When the threshold value a is −3 Mbps, the operation mode of the communication device 1 is the second mode. When the threshold value a is −5 Mbps, the operation mode of the communication device 1 is the third mode.

[0069] If the set fixed bandwidth A3 is larger than the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 (difference d>0) and the difference d is larger than the threshold b, the communication device 1 changes the operation mode based on the threshold b.

[0070] When the threshold b is 5 Mbps, the operation mode of the communication device 1 is the first mode. When the threshold value b is 3 Mbps, the operation mode of the communication device 1 is the second mode. When the threshold value b is 1 Mbps, the operation mode of the communication device 1 is the third mode.

[0071] The first to fourth modes will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0072] The relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the first mode will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the first mode.

[0073] At time t11, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3 of the bandwidth T11 that is larger than the predicted fixed bandwidth A1.

[0074] At time t12, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T12, which is larger than bandwidth T11.

[0075] At time t13, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T12.

[0076] At time t14, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T13, which is larger than bandwidth T12.

[0077] At time t15, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 the set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T14, which is larger than bandwidth T13.

[0078] At time t16, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T14.

[0079] At time t17, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 the set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T15, which is larger than bandwidth T14.

[0080] At time t18, the bandwidth of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T15.

[0081] At time t19, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, but since it is smaller than the bandwidth T15 of the set fixed bandwidth A3, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T15.

[0082] In this way, in the first mode, the communication device 1 allocates the set fixed bandwidth A3 to the AP 3 so as to have a margin relative to the predicted fixed bandwidth A1. Therefore, in the first mode, the fixed bandwidth necessary for packet transmission is sufficiently secured, and packet transmission delays and packet loss can be reduced. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the first mode is referred to as, for example, a safety mode.

[0083] The relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the second mode will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the second mode.

[0084] At time t21, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3 of the bandwidth T21 that is larger than the predicted fixed bandwidth A1.

[0085] At time t22, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T21.

[0086] At time t23, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T21.

[0087] At time t24, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 the set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T22, which is larger than bandwidth T21.

[0088] At time t25, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T22.

[0089] At time t26, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T22.

[0090] At time t27, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 the set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T23, which is larger than bandwidth T22.

[0091] At time t28, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3, which is a bandwidth T23 that is smaller than the bandwidth T22.

[0092] At time t29, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T23.

[0093] In this way, in the second mode, the communication device 1 allocates the set fixed bandwidth A3 to the AP 3 so as to have some margin with respect to the predicted fixed bandwidth A1. Therefore, in the second mode, it is possible to balance the allocation of the set fixed bandwidth A3 with packet transmission. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the second mode is referred to as, for example, a standard mode.

[0094] The relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the third mode will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the third mode.

[0095] At time t31, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3 of the bandwidth T31 ​​that is larger than the predicted fixed bandwidth A1.

[0096] At time t32, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T31.

[0097] At time t33, the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 decreases, but the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T31.

[0098] At time t34, as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates to AP3 a set fixed bandwidth A3 of bandwidth T32 that is larger than bandwidth T31.

[0099] After time t35, regardless of whether the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 increases or decreases, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) maintains the set fixed bandwidth A3 at bandwidth T32.

[0100] In this way, in the third mode, the communication device 1 allocates the set fixed bandwidth A3 to the AP 3 so as not to leave an excessive margin relative to the predicted fixed bandwidth A1. Therefore, in the third mode, the fixed bandwidth can be used efficiently, for example, when a large number of users connect to the network simultaneously. In the first embodiment of the present disclosure, the third mode is referred to as, for example, a high-efficiency mode.

[0101] The fourth mode of the communication device 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0102] In the fourth mode, the calculation control unit 31 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 based on the magnitude relationship between the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 received from the prediction unit 20 and the set fixed bandwidth A3 stored in the database 32.

[0103] Specifically, the calculation control unit 31 compares the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 with the set fixed bandwidth A3, and calculates the larger bandwidth as the reserved fixed bandwidth A2. The calculation unit 30 transmits the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 calculated by the calculation control unit 31 to the allocation unit 40. The allocation unit 40 allocates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 received from the calculation unit 30 to AP3.

[0104] When the predicted fixed band A1 is larger than the set fixed band A3 (A1 > A3), the calculation control unit 31 calculates the predicted fixed band A1 as the reserved fixed band A2, and the calculation unit 30 transmits the reserved fixed band A2 calculated by the calculation control unit 31 to the allocation unit 40. The allocation unit 40 allocates the reserved fixed band A2 received from the calculation unit 30 to AP3.

[0105] When the predicted fixed band A1 is smaller than the set fixed band A3 (A1 < A3), the calculation control unit 31 calculates the set fixed band A3 as the reserved fixed band A2, and the calculation unit 30 transmits the reserved fixed band A2 calculated by the calculation control unit 31 to the allocation unit 40. The allocation unit 40 allocates the reserved fixed band A2 received from the calculation unit 30 to AP3.

[0106] When the state where the predicted fixed band A1 is smaller than the set fixed band A3 has elapsed for a predetermined time, the calculation control unit 31 calculates the reserved fixed band A2 so that it is equal to the predicted fixed band A1. The calculation unit 30 transmits the reserved fixed band A2 calculated by the calculation control unit 31 to the allocation unit 40. The allocation unit 40 allocates the reserved fixed band A2 received from the calculation unit 30 to AP3.

[0107] If the state where the predicted fixed band A1 is smaller than the set fixed band A3 continues for a predetermined time, the band allocated to AP3 may become excessive, which may have an adverse effect on the communication environment of the network 200. For this reason, when the state where the predicted fixed band A1 is smaller than the set fixed band A3 has elapsed for a predetermined time, it is preferable that the communication device 1 has a function of reducing the set fixed band A3.

[0108] When the predicted fixed band A1 is equal to the set fixed band A3 (A1 = A3), the calculation control unit 31 may calculate the said band as the reserved fixed band A2, and the calculation unit 30 may transmit the reserved fixed band A2 to the allocation unit 40. Also, while the state where the predicted fixed band A1 and the set fixed band A3 are equal continues, the calculation control unit 31 may not calculate the reserved fixed band A2, and the calculation unit 30 may not transmit the reserved fixed band A2 to the allocation unit 40.

[0109] In the fourth mode, the calculation control unit 31 may compare the predicted fluctuation band B1 received from the prediction unit 20 with the set fluctuation band B3 stored in the database 32, and calculate the larger band as the reserved fluctuation band B2.

[0110] In addition, in the fourth mode, the calculation control unit 31 may be configured to calculate the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 by comparing the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 received from the prediction unit 20 with the set fixed bandwidth A3 stored in the database 32.

[0111] The relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the fourth mode will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 in the fourth mode.

[0112] At time t41, the communication device 1 (allocation unit 40) allocates the larger set fixed bandwidth A3 (bandwidth T41) to AP3 because the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 is smaller than the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0113] At time t42, the communication device 1 assigns the larger predicted fixed bandwidth A1 (band T42) to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 because the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 is larger than the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0114] At time t43, the communication device 1 assigns the bandwidth equivalent to the larger sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 (band T43) because the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 is greater than the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0115] At time t44, the communication device 1 assigns the larger predicted fixed bandwidth A1 (band T44) to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 because the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 is larger than the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0116] At time t45, the communication device 1 assigns the bandwidth equivalent to the larger sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 (band T45) because the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 is greater than the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0117] At time t46, the communication device 1 assigns the bandwidth equivalent to the larger sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 (band T46) because the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1 is greater than the set fixed bandwidth A3.

[0118] At time t47, since the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted fluctuation bandwidth B1 is equal to the set fixed bandwidth A3, the communication device 1 allocates the bandwidth equivalent to the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted fluctuation bandwidth B1 to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 (band T46).

[0119] After time t47, the set fixed bandwidth A3 remains larger than the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 or the sum of the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1, so the communication device 1 continues to allocate the set fixed bandwidth A3 of the bandwidth T46 to AP3.

[0120] For example, at time t48, the communication device 1 may reduce the set fixed bandwidth A3 if the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 has been smaller than the set fixed bandwidth A3 for a predetermined period of time or more since time t47. In this case, the communication device 1 may allocate the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 (band T47) smaller than the set fixed bandwidth A3 to the AP 3 as the reserved fixed bandwidth A2.

[0121] Packet transmission example Control of packet transmission by the communication device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of packet transmission when the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is applied.

[0122] FIG. 12 shows an example E1 of packet transmission at time T=t1 and an example E2 of packet transmission at time T=t2. <t2とする。

[0123] In an example E1 of packet transmission at time T=t1, the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 to be a (Mbps) and transmits the prediction result to the calculation unit 30. The variable bandwidth prediction unit 22 predicts the predicted variable bandwidth B1 to be 0 (Mbps) and transmits the prediction result to the calculation unit 30.

[0124] The calculation unit 30 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 based on the received predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and predicted variable bandwidth B1. In this example, the calculation unit 30 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 to be a (Mbps) and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to be 0 (Mbps), and transmits them to the allocation unit 40.

[0125] Based on the received reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2, the allocation unit 40 allocates the set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 to AP 3. In this example, the allocation unit 40 sets the set fixed bandwidth A3 to a (Mbps) and the set variable bandwidth B3 to 0 (Mbps) and allocates them to AP 3.

[0126] As shown in example E1, packets are transmitted based on a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a set variable bandwidth B3.

[0127] In an example E2 of packet transmission at time T=t2, the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 to be a (Mbps) and transmits the prediction result to the calculation unit 30. The variable bandwidth prediction unit 22 predicts the predicted variable bandwidth B1 to be b (Mbps) and transmits the prediction result to the calculation unit 30.

[0128] The calculation unit 30 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 based on the received predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and predicted variable bandwidth B1. In this example, the calculation unit 30 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 to be a (Mbps) and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to be b (Mbps), and transmits them to the allocation unit 40.

[0129] Based on the received reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2, the allocation unit 40 allocates a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a set variable bandwidth B3 to AP 3. In this example, the allocation unit 40 sets the set fixed bandwidth A3 to a (Mbps) and the set variable bandwidth B3 to b (Mbps) and allocates them to AP 3.

[0130] As shown in example E2, packets are transmitted based on a set fixed bandwidth A3 and a set variable bandwidth B3.

[0131] Packet transmission by a communication device without a bandwidth reservation function (without the calculation unit 30 and the allocation unit 40) will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating a comparison between packet transmission when the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is applied and packet transmission when a communication device without a bandwidth reservation function is applied.

[0132] 13 shows examples E2 and E3 of packet transmission at time T=t2. The example E2 of packet transmission at time T=t2 is the same as that in FIG. 11, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0133] In an example E3 of packet transmission at time T=t2, the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts that the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 is a (Mbps) and transmits the prediction result to the calculation unit 30. The variable bandwidth prediction unit 22 predicts that the predicted variable bandwidth B1 is b (Mbps) and transmits the prediction result to the calculation unit 30.

[0134] As in example E3, packets are transmitted using fixed bandwidth A and variable bandwidth B based on predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and predicted variable bandwidth B1. In this example, packets are transmitted without taking into consideration reserved fixed bandwidth A2, reserved variable bandwidth B2, set fixed bandwidth A3, and set variable bandwidth B3, and therefore cannot be transmitted at the desired timing due to the influence of bandwidth C from the external terminal.

[0135] Example of operation of fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 The prediction of the fixed band by the fixed band prediction unit 21 will be described with reference to Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of prediction of the predicted fixed band A1 by the fixed band prediction unit 21 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. This flowchart starts when the fixed band prediction unit 21 receives environmental information from the environmental information acquisition unit 11.

[0136] The fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts the fixed bandwidth based on the environmental information received from the environmental information acquisition unit 11 (S11). The fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 predicts the fixed bandwidth using time-series data prediction by AI.

[0137] The fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 transmits the predicted fixed bandwidth as the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 to the calculation unit 30 (S12), and this flow ends.

[0138] The environmental information acquisition unit 11 periodically acquires environmental information and transmits it to the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21. Therefore, the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 periodically receives the environmental information acquired by the environmental information acquisition unit 11. Therefore, the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 periodically executes this flowchart in accordance with the timing at which the environmental information is received.

[0139] Example of operation of the fluctuation bandwidth prediction unit 22 The prediction of the fluctuation band by the fluctuation band prediction unit 22 will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of prediction of the predicted fluctuation band by the fluctuation band prediction unit 22 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. This flowchart starts when the fluctuation band prediction unit 22 receives traffic information from the traffic information acquisition unit 12.

[0140] The variable bandwidth prediction unit 22 predicts the variable bandwidth based on the traffic information received from the traffic information acquisition unit 12 (S21). The variable bandwidth prediction unit 22 predicts the fixed bandwidth using time series data prediction by AI.

[0141] The fluctuation band prediction unit 22 transmits the predicted fluctuation band to the calculation unit 30 as the predicted fluctuation band (S22), and this flow ends.

[0142] The traffic information acquisition unit 12 periodically acquires traffic information and transmits it to the fluctuation bandwidth prediction unit 22. Therefore, the fluctuation bandwidth prediction unit 22 periodically receives the traffic information acquired by the traffic information acquisition unit 12. Therefore, the fluctuation bandwidth prediction unit 22 periodically executes this flowchart in accordance with the timing at which the traffic information is received.

[0143] Example of operation of the calculation unit 30 Calculation of the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 by the calculation unit 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 16. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of calculation of the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 by the calculation unit 30 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. This flowchart starts when the calculation unit 30 receives the predicted fixed bandwidth and the predicted variable bandwidth from the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 and the variable bandwidth prediction unit 22.

[0144] The calculation control unit 31 determines whether the current calculation is the first time (S31). If the calculation control unit 31 determines that the current calculation is the first time (YES in S31), the calculation control unit 31 calculates (reserved fixed bandwidth A2) = (predicted fixed bandwidth A1) and (reserved variable bandwidth B2) = (predicted variable bandwidth B1) - (predicted fixed bandwidth A1) (S32).

[0145] When the calculation control unit 31 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 for the first time, the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the set variable bandwidth are not stored in the database 32. Therefore, in the first calculation, the calculation control unit 31 calculates the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 without referring to the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the set variable bandwidth.

[0146] If the calculation control unit 31 determines that this calculation is not the first time (NO in S31), the calculation control unit 31 acquires the set fixed band A3 and the set variable band B3 from the database 32 (S33).

[0147] The calculation control unit 31 determines whether or not to change the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 (S34). If the calculation control unit 31 determines that the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 should be changed (YES in S34), the flow proceeds to the process of S32.

[0148] If the calculation control unit 31 determines not to change the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 (NO in S34), the calculation control unit 31 calculates (reserved fixed bandwidth A2) = (set fixed bandwidth A3) and (reserved variable bandwidth B2) = (predicted variable bandwidth B1) - (set fixed bandwidth A3) (S35).

[0149] The calculation control unit 31 sends the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 as a request to the allocation unit 40 (S36), and the calculation control unit 31 determines whether or not a response has been received from the allocation unit 40 (S37), and waits until a response is received (NO in S37).

[0150] If the calculation control unit 31 determines that it has received a response from the allocation unit 40 (YES in S37), it stores the set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 contained in the received response in the database 32 (S38), and this flow ends.

[0151] Since the calculation unit 30 periodically receives the predicted fixed bandwidth and predicted variable bandwidth from the fixed bandwidth prediction unit 21 and the variable bandwidth prediction unit 22, the calculation control unit 31 periodically executes this flowchart in accordance with the timing of receiving the predicted fixed bandwidth A1 and the predicted variable bandwidth B1.

[0152] Example of operation of allocation unit 40 The allocation of bandwidth to AP3 by the allocating unit 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of allocation of the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the set variable bandwidth B3 by the allocating unit 40 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. This flowchart starts when the allocating unit 40 receives a request from the calculating unit 30.

[0153] The allocation control unit 41 determines whether the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 can be allocated to AP3 (S41). If the allocation control unit 41 determines that the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 can be allocated to AP3 (YES in S41), it instructs AP3 to allocate the set variable bandwidth B3 (S46) and proceeds to the processing of S47.

[0154] If the allocation control unit 41 determines that the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 cannot be allocated to AP3 (NO in S41), it allocates the allocatable fixed bandwidth to AP3 (S42) and acquires the fixed bandwidth allocated to AP3 as the set fixed bandwidth A3 (S43).

[0155] The allocation control unit 41 adjusts the reserved variable bandwidth B2 to make up for the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 that was not allocated to AP3 (S44), and allocates the adjusted reserved variable bandwidth B2 to AP3 (S45).

[0156] The allocation control unit 41 acquires the reserved variable bandwidth B2 allocated to AP3 as the set variable bandwidth B3 (S47). The allocation control unit 41 transmits the set fixed bandwidth A3 and the set variable bandwidth B3 as a response to the calculation unit 30 (S48), and this flow ends.

[0157] The allocation control unit 41 periodically receives the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2 from the calculation unit 30, and therefore periodically executes this flowchart in accordance with the timing of receiving the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and the reserved variable bandwidth B2.

[0158] <Second embodiment of the present disclosure> Network Overview The second embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a base station that uses an unlicensed band. Note that components that are substantially the same as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof may be omitted.

[0159] A network according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0160] In dual connectivity, which realizes high-capacity transmission by having a user equipment (UE) 105 communicate using two different base stations, a first base station 101 and a second base station 102, an unlicensed band is used for the base station's x-haul.

[0161] For example, a first base station 101 covers a wide first area 111 and provides stable communications. A second base station 102 provides communications in a second area 112 that is a localized area smaller than the first area 111.

[0162] When communication demand temporarily increases in a second area 112 within the first area 111 due to reasons such as the holding of a large-scale event, in order to respond to the temporary increase in communication demand, for example, the second base station 102 temporarily provides communication in the second area 112. Such a second area 112 is sometimes referred to as a hotspot.

[0163] When the user equipment 105 enters the first area 111, communication between the user equipment 105 and the first base station 101 is established. Furthermore, when the user equipment 105 enters the second area 112, in addition to communication with the first base station 101, communication with the second base station 102 is temporarily established. In this case, temporary traffic occurs in the second base station 102. Note that the temporary traffic specifically refers to traffic occurring on communication path G between the RU 7 of the second base station 102 and the CU 2 and DU 6, as shown in FIG. 20 .

[0164] By using unlicensed bands in x-haul, where such temporary traffic occurs, installation costs can be reduced.

[0165] However, when using unlicensed bands for x-haul, there is a possibility that the traffic volume of communication path G can be reliably secured because it may be affected by external terminals.

[0166] If the actual traffic volume is lower than the desired traffic volume, the user equipment 105 will continue to wait for the desired packet without knowing the situation. If this situation continues, the network may become unstable, and the quality of wireless communication may deteriorate.

[0167] Dual connectivity will be described with reference to Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a schematic diagram showing an example of dual connectivity in a network according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0168] The network according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure uses dual connectivity (multi-connectivity) in which, for example, a user device 105 connects to two different base stations (a first base station 101 and a second base station 102) and transmits and receives data via these connections. This is expected to improve the quality of wireless communication and the stability of connections.

[0169] Furthermore, a configuration may be adopted in which a QoS flow (Quality of Service Flow) is used for communication connections between the user equipment 105 and the first and second base stations 101 and 102.

[0170] The core network 100 is composed of elements having the functions of, for example, an AMF 100a, an SMF 100b, and a UPF 100c. These functions perform connection management for the user equipment 105, session management, transfer of user data, and the like.

[0171] A licensed band is used for communication between the user equipment 105 and the first base station 101 and the second base station 102. In this embodiment, a case will be illustrated in which a licensed band or a wired band is used for the x-haul of the first base station 101, and an unlicensed band is used for the x-haul of the second base station 102.

[0172] The second base station 102 determines whether the available bandwidth is sufficient for the traffic it wants to transmit. If the second base station 102 determines that the available bandwidth is sufficient, the communication of QoS flow 2 continues via the second base station 102. On the other hand, if the second base station 102 determines that the available bandwidth is insufficient, it performs QoS flow control so that the communication of QoS flow 2 is communicated via the first base station 101. As a result, the communication between the user equipment 105 and the second base station 102 is disconnected.

[0173] If the amount of traffic actually flowing through the second base station 102 is lower than the amount of traffic desired by the user equipment 105 connected to the second base station 102, the user equipment 105 will connect to the first base station 101, thereby avoiding a situation in which the user equipment 105 continues to wait for a desired packet. For example, if the second base station 102 determines that the available bandwidth is sufficient, QoS flow 2 is controlled to continue communication via the second base station 102. On the other hand, if the second base station 102 determines that the available bandwidth is insufficient, QoS flow 2 is controlled to communicate via the first base station 101.

[0174] Therefore, if the amount of traffic actually flowing through the second base station 102 is lower than the amount of traffic that the user equipment 105 connecting to the second base station 102 wants to send, the user equipment 105 connects to the first base station 101, thereby avoiding a situation in which the user equipment 105 continues to wait for the desired packet. For example, the user equipment 105 will no longer perform communication of QoS flow 2, and therefore the user equipment 105 will no longer wait for packets.

[0175] Furthermore, the second base station 102 may be configured to include the communication device 1 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the communication device 1 in the second base station 102 uses the predicted bandwidth, the reserved bandwidth, and the set bandwidth to secure a bandwidth in the second base station 102. This method also makes it possible to avoid a situation in which the user equipment 105 continues to wait for a desired packet.

[0176] A schematic configuration of the second base station 102 will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of the second base station 102 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0177] The second base station 102 is composed of elements having the functions of a CU2, an AP3, a STA5, a DU6, and an RU7. The second base station 102 also has a control device server 80 and a control device client 90. The CU2 may also have a base station management unit 2a.

[0178] The CU2 includes a base station management unit 2a. The base station management unit 2a controls the overall operation of the second base station 102. The base station management unit 2a also communicates with other base stations (for example, the first base station 101) via the core network 100.

[0179] The base station management unit 2 a grasps the communication status within the second base station 102 .

[0180] For example, the base station management unit 2a is communicatively connected to the control device server 80, and acquires the communication status on the DU 6 side of the communication path G monitored by the control device server 80. Furthermore, for example, the base station management unit 2a may be communicatively connected to the control device client 90, and may be configured to acquire the communication status on the RU 7 side of the communication path G monitored by the control device client 90.

[0181] The control device server 80 and the control device client 90 determine whether there is sufficient available bandwidth for the traffic to be sent over the communication path G. The control device server 80 and the control device client 90 may be separate devices or may be an integrated device.

[0182] For example, the control device server 80 and the control device client 90 notify the base station management unit 2a that there is expected to be a shortage of available bandwidth for the traffic desired to be transmitted over the communication path G, and that there is expected to be surplus available bandwidth for the traffic desired to be transmitted over the communication path G.

[0183] Like the communication device 1 of the first embodiment, the control device server 80 and the control device client 90 may be configured to predict the bandwidth and ensure traffic when a shortage of the available bandwidth is expected.

[0184] Block configuration of the control device server 80 The control device server 80 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 21. Fig. 21 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the control device server 80 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0185] The control device server 80 includes a control unit 81 and a notification unit 82 .

[0186] The control unit 81 controls the overall operation of the control device server 80. The control unit 81 is configured with a processor such as a CPU, for example.

[0187] The control unit 81 includes a traffic prediction unit 81a, an available bandwidth prediction unit 81b, and a bandwidth determination unit 81c.

[0188] The traffic prediction unit 81a predicts traffic on the DU6 side of the communication path G. For example, the traffic prediction unit 81a predicts traffic on the DU6 side of the communication path G using the time-series data prediction of AI shown in Fig. 3, and acquires the predicted traffic. The predicted traffic is stored in a storage means such as a database included in the control device server 80, for example.

[0189] The available bandwidth prediction unit 81b predicts the available bandwidth on the DU6 side of the communication path G. For example, the available bandwidth prediction unit 81b predicts the available bandwidth on the DU6 side of the communication path G using the time-series data prediction of AI shown in Fig. 3, and acquires the predicted available bandwidth. The predicted available bandwidth is stored in a storage means such as a database that the control device server 80 has, for example.

[0190] The bandwidth determining unit 81c determines the bandwidth on the DU6 side of the communication path G of the second base station 102 based on the magnitude relationship between the predicted traffic and the predicted available bandwidth.

[0191] If the predicted traffic is greater than the predicted available bandwidth, the notification unit 82 notifies the base station management unit 2a that the traffic prediction is greater than the predicted available bandwidth. Upon receiving this notification, the base station management unit 2a notifies the first base station 101 that the available bandwidth of the second base station 102 is expected to be insufficient. The status of the second base station 102 is shared by the first base station 101 and the second base station.

[0192] If the predicted available bandwidth is larger than the predicted traffic, the notification unit 82 notifies the base station management unit 2a that the predicted available bandwidth is larger than the traffic prediction. Upon receiving this notification, the base station management unit 2a notifies the first base station 101 that the second base station 102 is expected to have some spare bandwidth available. The communication status of the second base station 102 is shared by the first base station 101 and the second base station.

[0193] Block configuration of the control device client 90 A control device client 90 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 22. Fig. 22 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the control device client 90 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0194] The control device client 90 includes a control unit 91 .

[0195] The control unit 91 controls the overall operation of the control device client 90. The control unit 91 is configured with a processor such as a CPU, for example.

[0196] The control unit 91 includes a traffic prediction unit 91a, an available bandwidth prediction unit 91b, and a bandwidth determination unit 91c.

[0197] The traffic prediction unit 91a predicts traffic on the RU 7 side of the communication path G, and acquires predicted traffic. The predicted traffic is stored in a storage means such as a database that the control device client 90 has, for example.

[0198] The available bandwidth predicting unit 91b predicts the available bandwidth on the RU 7 side of the communication path G, and acquires the predicted available bandwidth. The predicted available bandwidth is stored in a storage means such as a database that the control device client 90 has, for example.

[0199] The bandwidth determining unit 91c determines whether to wait on the RU 7 side of the communication path G based on the magnitude relationship between the predicted traffic and the predicted available bandwidth.

[0200] If the predicted traffic is greater than the predicted available bandwidth, the control device client 90 may notify the control device server 80 that the traffic prediction is greater than the predicted available bandwidth.

[0201] If the predicted available bandwidth is greater than the predicted traffic, the control device client 90 may notify the control device server 80 that the predicted available bandwidth is greater than the traffic prediction.

[0202] First band determination operation The operation of the first band determination for the available band determination will be described with reference to Fig. 23. Fig. 23 is a flowchart showing an example of the first available band determination according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0203] The first band determination is performed in a state where communication between the second base station 102 and the user equipment 105 is connected (first state).

[0204] The control unit 81 of the control device server 80 acquires the predicted traffic, and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 acquires the predicted traffic (S51).

[0205] The control unit 81 of the control device server 80 acquires the predicted available bandwidth, and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 acquires the predicted available bandwidth (S52).

[0206] The control unit 81 of the control device server 80 and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determine whether the predicted traffic is greater than the predicted available bandwidth, and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determines whether the predicted traffic is greater than the predicted available bandwidth (S53).

[0207] If the control unit 81 of the control device server 80 and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determine that the predicted traffic is equal to or less than the predicted usable bandwidth (NO in S53), the flow returns to the processing of S51.

[0208] If the control unit 81 of the control device server 80 and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determine that the predicted traffic is larger than the predicted available bandwidth (YES in S53), the notification unit 82 of the control device server 80 notifies the base station management unit 2a that the predicted available bandwidth of the second base station 102 is predicted to be larger than the predicted traffic (S54).

[0209] The base station management unit 2a notifies the first base station 101 that the available bandwidth of the second base station 102 is expected to become insufficient (S55).

[0210] The first base station 101 and the second base station 102 disconnect the communication between the second base station 102 and the user equipment 105 (S56), and this flow ends.

[0211] Note that either the control device server 80 or the control device client 90 may be configured to execute this flow.

[0212] Second band judgment operation The operation of the second band determination of the available band determination will be described with reference to Fig. 24. Fig. 24 is a flowchart showing an example of the second available band determination according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0213] The second band determination is performed in a state (second state) in which communication between the second base station 102 and the user equipment 105 is disconnected.

[0214] The control unit 81 of the control device server 80 acquires the predicted traffic, and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 acquires the predicted traffic (S61).

[0215] The control unit 81 of the control device server 80 acquires the predicted available bandwidth, and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 acquires the predicted available bandwidth (S62).

[0216] The control unit 81 of the control device server 80 and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determine whether the predicted available bandwidth is greater than the predicted traffic, and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determines whether the predicted available bandwidth is greater than the predicted traffic (S63).

[0217] If the control unit 81 of the control device server 80 and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determine that the predicted available bandwidth is equal to or less than the predicted traffic (NO in S63), the flow returns to the processing of S61.

[0218] If the control unit 81 of the control device server 80 and the control unit 91 of the control device client 90 determine that the predicted available bandwidth is greater than the predicted traffic (YES in S63), the notification unit 82 of the control device server 80 notifies the base station management unit 2a that the predicted traffic of the second base station 102 is predicted to be greater than the predicted available bandwidth (S64).

[0219] The base station management unit 2a notifies the first base station 101 that the second base station 102 is expected to have a margin in the available band (S65).

[0220] The first base station 101 and the second base station 102 establish a connection for communication between the second base station 102 and the user equipment 105 (S66), and this flow ends.

[0221] Note that either the control device server 80 or the control device client 90 may be configured to execute this flow.

[0222] The items described in the above embodiments may be combined as appropriate unless they are contradictory or unless it is explicitly stated that they cannot be combined.

[0223] In the above-described embodiments, the notation "... part" used for each component may be replaced with other notations such as "... circuitry," "... assembly," "... device," "... unit," or "... module."

[0224] <Summary of the embodiment> A communication device 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires environmental information and traffic information from a core network, a prediction unit that predicts a predicted bandwidth based on the environmental information and traffic information, a calculation unit that calculates a reserved bandwidth based on the predicted bandwidth, and an allocation unit that allocates part or all of the reserved bandwidth to an access point.

[0225] With this configuration, the communication device 1 predicts traffic fluctuations from the perspective of both fixed bandwidth, which fluctuates macroscopically, and variable bandwidth, which fluctuates microscopically. This allows the communication device 1 to perform detailed traffic management, which is expected to improve communication quality.

[0226] By predicting the future predicted fixed bandwidth A1 from the current fixed bandwidth A and predicting the future predicted variable bandwidth B1 from the current variable bandwidth B, it is possible to efficiently use the bandwidth and maintain the quality of the network.

[0227] By sending the set fixed bandwidth A3 and set variable bandwidth B3 actually allocated to AP3 by the allocation unit 40 to the calculation unit 30 as a response, the calculation unit 30 can use the response as reference information when calculating the next reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2.

[0228] Therefore, even if the entire reserved fixed bandwidth A2 cannot be allocated to AP3, the allocation unit 40 sends a response to the calculation unit 30, and the calculation unit 30 can refer to the response and calculate the reserved fixed bandwidth A2 and reserved variable bandwidth B2 that are more in line with the actual network conditions.

[0229] The present disclosure can be realized in software, hardware, or software in conjunction with hardware.

[0230] Each functional block used in the description of the above embodiments may be partially or entirely realized as an LSI, which is an integrated circuit, and each process described in the above embodiments may be partially or entirely controlled by a single LSI or a combination of LSIs. The LSI may be composed of individual chips, or may be composed of a single chip that includes some or all of the functional blocks. The LSI may have data input and output. Depending on the degree of integration, the LSI may be called an IC, system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI.

[0231] The integrated circuit method is not limited to LSI, but may be realized by a dedicated circuit, a general-purpose processor, or a dedicated processor. Also, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) that can be programmed after LSI manufacturing, or a reconfigurable processor that can reconfigure the connections and settings of circuit cells within the LSI, may be used. The present disclosure may be realized as digital processing or analog processing.

[0232] Furthermore, if an integrated circuit technology that can replace LSI emerges due to advances in semiconductor technology or other derivative technologies, it is natural that such technology may be used to integrate functional blocks. The application of biotechnology, etc. is also a possibility.

[0233] The present disclosure may be implemented in any type of apparatus, device, or system (collectively referred to as a communications apparatus) that has a communications function. The communications apparatus may include a wireless transceiver and processing / control circuitry. The wireless transceiver may include a receiver and a transmitter, or both functions. The wireless transceiver (transmitter and receiver) may include a radio frequency (RF) module and one or more antennas. The RF module may include an amplifier, an RF modulator / demodulator, or the like. Non-limiting examples of communication devices include telephones (e.g., cell phones, smartphones), tablets, personal computers (PCs) (e.g., laptops, desktops, notebooks), cameras (e.g., digital still / video cameras), digital players (e.g., digital audio / video players), wearable devices (e.g., wearable cameras, smartwatches, tracking devices), game consoles, digital book readers, telehealth / telemedicine devices, communication-enabled vehicles or mobile transportation (e.g., cars, airplanes, ships), and combinations of the above devices.

[0234] Communications equipment is not limited to portable or mobile equipment, but also includes non-portable or fixed equipment, devices, and systems of any kind, such as smart home devices (such as appliances, lighting equipment, smart meters or metering devices, control panels, etc.), vending machines, and any other "things" that may exist on an IoT (Internet of Things) network.

[0235] Communications include data communications via cellular systems, wireless LAN systems, communications satellite systems, etc., as well as data communications via combinations of these.

[0236] A communications apparatus also includes devices such as controllers and sensors connected or coupled to a communications device that performs the communications functions described in this disclosure, such as controllers and sensors that generate control and data signals used by the communications device to perform the communications functions of the communications apparatus.

[0237] The communication apparatus also includes infrastructure facilities, such as base stations, access points, and any other apparatus, device, or system that communicates with or controls the various apparatuses listed above, but are not limited to these.

[0238] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications or alterations within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the above-described embodiments may be combined in any manner without departing from the spirit of the disclosure.

[0239] Although specific examples of the present disclosure have been described in detail above, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and alterations of the specific examples exemplified above. [Industrial Applicability]

[0240] An embodiment of the present disclosure is useful for a communication device and a communication method. [Explanation of symbols]

[0241] 1. Communications equipment 10 Acquisition Department 11 Environmental Information Acquisition Department 12 Traffic information acquisition unit 20 Prediction Department 21 Fixed bandwidth prediction unit 22 Fluctuation Bandwidth Prediction Unit 30 Calculation Unit 31 Calculation control unit 32 databases 40 Allocation Section 41 Allocation control unit 42 Allocated Bandwidth Acquisition Unit 80 Control device server 90 Control Device Client 100 Core Network 101 1st base station 102 2nd base station 105 User Equipment 111 Area 1 112 Area 2 200 Network

Claims

1. a traffic prediction unit that obtains predicted traffic based on a communication state of an x-haul that is a communication path from a core network to the first base station; an available bandwidth prediction unit that obtains a predicted available bandwidth; a bandwidth determination unit that determines whether the predicted traffic is greater than the predicted available bandwidth; and a control unit including: When the first base station that communicates with user equipment communicates using an unlicensed band in at least a part of the x-haul, The control unit notifies a second base station connected to the same core network as the first base station of a margin of available bandwidth according to a determination result of the bandwidth determination unit, and controls communication between the first base station and the user equipment. Communications control device.

2. When the user equipment and the first base station are in communication, the control unit notifies the second base station of an expected shortage when the bandwidth determination unit determines that the predicted traffic is larger than the predicted available bandwidth; Disconnecting communication between the user equipment and the first base station; The communication control device according to claim 1 .

3. When communication between the user equipment and the first base station is disconnected, the control unit, when the bandwidth determination unit determines that the predicted traffic is smaller than the predicted available bandwidth, notifies the second base station that it is expected that there is a surplus; connecting the user equipment to the first base station; The communication control device according to claim 1 .

4. a communication area of ​​the first base station is smaller than a communication area of ​​the second base station; 4. The communication control device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. When a first base station that communicates with a user equipment communicates using an unlicensed band in at least a part of an x-haul that is a communication path from a core network to the first base station, Obtaining predicted traffic based on the communication status of the x-haul; Obtain the predicted available bandwidth, notifying a second base station connected to the same core network as the first base station of a margin of available bandwidth in accordance with a determination result of whether the predicted traffic is larger than the predicted available bandwidth, and controlling communication between the first base station and the user equipment; Communication control method.

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