Information processing method, program, information processing device, and wireless communication device

Abstract

Background data transfer is performed based on the UE's communication environment. [Solution] A first Network Function (NF) in the core network acquires first data, which is the result of sensing the communication environment of a predetermined area, and based on the first data, acquires a Background Data Transfer (BDT) policy that will be used when a first User Equipment (UE) located within the predetermined area performs background data transfer.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication network.

Background Art

[0002] In a 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) communication system, technologies for sensing the surrounding environment of a terminal have been studied (Non-Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0003]

Non-Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure aims to perform background data transfer based on the communication environment of a UE.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is the first NF (Network Function) in the core network obtains first data which is the result of sensing the communication environment of a predetermined area, and obtains a BDT (Background Data Transfer) policy used when a first UE (User Equipment) located in the predetermined area performs background data transfer based on the first data, and is an information processing method for executing. <​One aspect of this disclosure is, An information processing device that functions as a first NF (Network Function) in a core network, and has a control unit that performs the following: acquiring first data which is the result of sensing the communication environment of a predetermined area; and acquiring a BDT (Background Data Transfer) policy which is used when a first UE (User Equipment) located within the predetermined area performs background data transfer based on the first data.

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure is, The wireless communication device has a control unit that receives first data from a first NF (Network Function) in the core network, which is a request to sense a predetermined target in order to generate a communication policy for background data transfer, and transmits sensing data obtained by sensing the predetermined target to the first NF in response to the first data.

[0008] Other embodiments include a program for causing a computer to execute the above-described information processing method, or a computer-readable storage medium that non-temporarily stores the program. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, background data transfer is performed based on the UE's communication environment. It is possible. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] A diagram illustrating an example of the architecture of a fifth-generation mobile communication system. [Figure 2] A diagram illustrating the BDT policy generation process in a communication system. [Figure 3] A diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device capable of operating as a network function. [Figure 4] A diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of PCF4. [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of a parameter table in the first embodiment. [Figure 6] A diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of SF2. [Figure 7] A flowchart of the processes performed by PCF4. [Figure 8] A flowchart of the processes performed by SF2. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of the sequence of steps for retrieving a BDT policy. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] There is a technology that utilizes idle time during periods when wireless network resources are available to transmit data that does not require real-time processing. Such communication is also called background data transfer (BDT) or gap communication.

[0012] In 5G systems, there is a mechanism to control background data transfer through policies. In the following explanation, the policy for performing background data transfer will be referred to as the BDT policy. BDT policies are provided to applications by the Policy Control Function (PCF) included in the core network, and apply to those applications. Therefore, it applies to the designated user equipment (UE). In 5G systems, multiple B The DT policy is stored, and the PCF selects a BDT policy that matches the specified communication conditions (e.g., area and time frame). The UE can perform background data transfer in the desired area and time frame by communicating according to the selected BDT policy.

[0013] The PCF obtains performance information, etc. in the user plane from the NWDAF (Network Data Analytics Function), and can select a BDT policy suitable for the target UE based on the performance information, etc. However, in existing technologies, selection of a BDT policy based on other conditions is not considered. For example, an appropriate BDT policy for a UE may change according to the communication environment around the UE.

[0014] For example, when there is rainfall around the target UE, since radio waves using millimeter waves are attenuated, a high bit rate may not be obtained. In this case, for the UE, a countermeasure such as applying a BDT policy with the maximum bit rate suppressed low may be considered.

[0015] Thus, if the communication environment around the UE can be sensed, it becomes possible to apply a more appropriate BDT policy for the UE. However, in existing technologies, such policy control could not be performed. The information processing method according to the present disclosure solves this problem.

[0016] An information processing method according to an aspect of the present disclosure is such that a first NF (Network Function) in the core network obtains first data that is the result of sensing the communication environment of a predetermined area, and based on the first data, obtains a BDT (Background Data Transfer) policy used when a first UE (User Equipment) located within the predetermined area performs background data transfer. [[ID=第23]]

[0017] The first NF is a network function that obtains a BDT policy used when a UE performs background data transfer, and typically is a Policy Control Function (hereinafter, P CF) The first NF acquires the results of sensing the communication environment in a designated area (first data) and obtains a BDT policy based on the first data. The designated area may be, for example, the area where the first UE is located, or the area where the first UE is expected to be located in the future. The sensing target is not limited to specific things, such as weather or precipitation conditions, as long as it relates to the communication environment of the area where the first UE is located (or is expected to be located). The communication environment of the target area can be sensed by communication equipment located within the target area (which may also be the first UE itself). The first data may be data obtained by analyzing the results of the sensing.

[0018] The first NF obtains the BDT policy that the first UE will use when performing background data transfer, based on the first data, i.e., the sensing results. For example, if the sensing results indicate rainfall, the first NF obtains a BDT policy that shortens the time window used for data transfer or lowers the maximum bitrate. In this way, by using the results of sensing the communication environment when acquiring the BDT policy, it becomes possible to perform more appropriate background data transfer according to the communication environment.

[0019] Furthermore, the first NF may obtain a request to acquire the BDT policy from the second NF, and if the acquisition request includes a sensing instruction for the communication environment, it may acquire the first data.

[0020] The second NF can be, for example, an Application Function (AF) that corresponds to an external application. The external application may be an application that provides communication control considering the communication environment around the UE.

[0021] Furthermore, a third NF within the core network may acquire sensing data obtained by sensing the communication environment of a predetermined area from a communication device located within that predetermined area, and generate the first data based on the sensing data.

[0022] The third NF can be a network function for managing sensing. The third NF may determine which communication device will perform sensing from among communication devices located within a designated area and acquire sensing data from that communication device.

[0023] Furthermore, the third NF may analyze the communication environment of the predetermined area based on the acquired sensing data and generate the first data including the results of the analysis. For example, if the object of sensing is precipitation conditions, the third NF may determine the amount of precipitation by analyzing the sensing data.

[0024] Furthermore, the first NF is obtained from the UDR (Unified Data Repository) from a number of pre-stored data points. The BDT policy may be obtained. Also, the first NF may obtain the BDT policy from the multiple BDT policies. Alternatively, you may select one or more BDT policies that meet the specified requirements.

[0025] The information processing method relating to this disclosure can be executed by a computer within a core network. The core network may be, for example, a 5G (5th Generation), 4G (4th Generation), or 6G (6th Generation) or later mobile core network.

[0026] The following describes specific embodiments of this disclosure with reference to the drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the hardware configurations, module configurations, functional configurations, etc., described in each embodiment are not intended to limit the technical scope of the disclosure to those configurations alone.

[0027] (First embodiment) [Overview of the communication system] Figure 1 shows an example of the architecture of a fifth-generation mobile communication system (5G). The 5G network has a 5G core network and a radio access network (RAN). User Equipment (UE) 10, Data Network (DN) 40, and Application Function (AF) 1 are connected to the 5G network. The UE 10 is the user (subscriber) terminal. The Radio Access Network (RAN) 20 is the radio access network to the 5G core network. The RAN 20 includes base stations (gNB). Although Figure 1 illustrates a radio access network, a non-radio access network (AN) may be used to connect to the 5G core network.

[0028] Figure 1 shows some of the components included in the 5G core network. Also, in Figure 1, components according to the first embodiment are denoted by reference numerals. In 5G, the software that implements network functions and the hardware on which that software is executed are separated using hardware abstraction technology. This allows various network function software to run on common hardware resources, regardless of the configuration of each hardware product. Figure 1 shows the network functions (NFs) included in the 5G core network. Each of the multiple NFs included in the 5G core network is implemented by one or more computers (information processing devices) executing programs. However, a single computer may implement any two or more NFs.

[0029] UPF (User Plane Function) 30 is responsible for routing, forwarding, and handling user packets. It performs packet inspection and QoS processing. User packets are user plane packets that UE10 transmits and receives.

[0030] AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) 6 accommodates the RAN and 5G network. It handles registration management, connection management, and mobility management for UEs within the network. It also relays messages between SMF3 and UE10.

[0031] SMF (Session Management Function) 3 is a PDU (Protocol Data Unit) session It manages sessions, assigns and manages IP addresses to UEs, and selects and controls UPF30. PDU session management includes PDU session establishment, This includes modifying and releasing. For example, if a communication policy is changed. This results in a change to the PDU session, and the change in communication policy is applied to UPF30 via SMF3. The PDU session is a virtual communication channel for exchanging data between UE10 and DN (Data Network)40. DN40 is an external data network (such as the cloud or the internet) outside the 5G core network.

[0032] PCF (Policy Control Function) 4 implements processing according to policy rules for each NF. To enable this, policy rules (hereinafter simply referred to as policies or communication policies) are provided to each NF. Communication policies include, for example, rules regarding QoS, filtering, routing, or billing. When a communication policy is registered, modified, or deleted, the PCF4 is first notified, and the PCF4, through the SMF6, controls the corresponding UPF30 to set, modify, or delete the communication policy. This specification describes the BDT policy for background data transfer as a communication policy handled by PCF.

[0033] UDR5 is used in UDM (Unified Data Management), PCF4, and NEF7. Store the data that is collected and provide this data.

[0034] SF (Sensing Function) 2 utilizes terminals and communication devices included in the 5G system to perform real-world sensing. For example, SF 2 causes a specific communication device connected to a wireless access network to measure the characteristics of the wireless signal propagation path and acquires the results. This allows for the detection of, for example, the presence of objects in the vicinity of the communication device. In this embodiment, SF2 has the function of sensing precipitation by communicating with a communication device located within a designated area. Further details will be described later.

[0035] NEF7 provides the ability to securely disclose network functions and event information within a 5G system to external applications such as Application Functions (AFs). NEF7 also provides the ability to transfer information from authorized external applications into the network.

[0036] AF is an application server (external server) that provides auxiliary services other than those specified in the 5G core specifications. In this embodiment, AF1 is used as an example of such a server. AF1 can, for example, send and receive information with devices within the 5G core network via NEF7. In this embodiment, AF1 is an external application that controls the user terminal (UE) 10 to perform background communication according to the surrounding communication environment. In this embodiment, AF1 obtains a BDT policy to optimize the background data transfer performed by UE 10 based on the communication environment of the area where UE 10 is currently located (or the area where it is expected to be located in the future). Further details will be described later.

[0037] NWDAF8 provides analytical information within the network. The network analysis information provided by NWDAF8 includes, for example, communication delay, throughput, jitter, and traffic load levels in each segment.

[0038] EASDF (Edge Application Server Discovery Function) mediates communication between UE10 and the DNS server.

[0039] The NRF stores and manages information on NFs (e.g., AMF, SMF, UPF, etc.) within 5GC. In response to an inquiry regarding an NF that the user wishes to use, the NRF can return multiple candidate NFs to the inquirer. NSSF has the function of selecting the network slice to be used by the subscriber from among the network slices generated by network slicing. A network slice is a virtual network with specifications tailored to its intended use. AUSF provides UE authentication functionality. The UDM provides subscriber contract information and authentication information for AKA authentication.

[0040] In a 5G core network, multiple NFs of the same type may be provided. For example, one NF may be provided for each data center. Alternatively, one NF may be shared among data centers. Furthermore, multiple NFs of the same type may be configured within a single data center. The correspondence between NFs and data centers can be configured as appropriate.

[0041] Figure 2 illustrates the BDT policy acquisition process in the communication system according to this embodiment.

[0042] The communication system according to this embodiment includes a 5G core, UE10, RAN20, and UPF30. In Figure 2, the communication system shows the 5G core and its associated network functions, specifically AF1, SF2, PCF4, UDR5, AMF6, and NEF7. However, the network functions included in the communication system are not limited to these.

[0043] In 5G systems, there is a mechanism in place where the PCF (Platform Control Function) retrieves a BDT (Broadcasting Date) policy that meets specified conditions and applies it to the UE (User Environment). Typically, the BDT policy is selected by the PCF based on factors such as the area and time zone where the UE is located.

[0044] On the other hand, in such a configuration, it is not possible to select a BDT policy based on the communication environment around the UE. As an example, let's explain the impact of weather conditions on 5G systems. When communication utilizes millimeter waves (mmWave), the communication may be affected by precipitation. For example, millimeter-wave radio waves are easily scattered and absorbed by raindrops, so precipitation can cause attenuation of radio waves, leading to a decrease in communication quality or a reduction in propagation distance. Therefore, if there is precipitation around the UE, it is preferable to apply a BDT policy to the UE, such as shortening the time window used for data transfer or transmitting and receiving at a lower bitrate. To achieve this, it is preferable to sense the presence and amount of precipitation around the UE and select a BDT policy based on the sensing results. However, with conventional technology, it was not possible to select an appropriate BDT policy based on the results of sensing the surroundings of the UE.

[0045] Therefore, in the first embodiment, a network function is added to sense the communication environment of a specific area, and based on the results of the sensing, the PCF4 acquires the BDT policy. In this embodiment, the network function is referred to as the Sensing Function (hereinafter, SF2). The SF2 has the function of commanding UE10s and base stations located within the target area to perform sensing and acquiring the results. The target area is the area where the UE performing background data transfer is currently located, or the area where it is predicted to be located in the future.

[0046] For example, the intensity of millimeter-wave radio signals attenuates with the amount of precipitation, so when there is precipitation around UE10, the propagation characteristics of the radio signal change compared to when there is no precipitation. Therefore, for example, SF2 can estimate precipitation in an area by having communication devices located within the target area communicate and measuring their propagation characteristics. For example, precipitation can be estimated based on the results of measuring the attenuation of radio signals along the propagation path using a known channel analysis method. In this way, SF2 can send signals to communication devices (UEs or base stations) located within the target area regarding the propagation path of radio signals. The system is instructed to perform sensing and the results (sensing data) are obtained. Furthermore, the communication environment in the area (e.g., the amount of precipitation) is analyzed based on the obtained sensing data. The sensing data may be, for example, channel information (CSI (Channel State Information) information) in the propagation path, or data obtained by analyzing CSI information. That's good too.

[0047] Furthermore, SF2 notifies PCF4 of the analysis results. This allows PCF4 to select a BDT policy that takes into account the communication environment around UE10, and to enable UE10 to perform optimal background data transfer.

[0048] Here, we will explain the general process that each network function performs. (1) First, AF1 sends a request to PCF4 to obtain a BDT policy based on the communication environment. The acquisition request includes specifications such as the area for background data transfer, the time frame for background data transfer, the number of UEs, and the amount of data per UE. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an activation flag is added to the acquisition request. The activation flag is a flag that specifies whether or not to consider the results of sensing the communication environment when acquiring the BDT policy. For example, if the BDT policy is to be determined based on the communication environment (precipitation in this embodiment), AF1 sets the activation flag to true and sends the acquisition request. If the communication environment is not to be considered, AF1 sets the activation flag to false and sends the acquisition request. Hereafter, acquisition requests sent from AF1 will be referred to as "policy provision requests." Policy provision requests sent from AF1 reach PCF4 via NEF7.

[0049] (2) Next, PCF4 retrieves the pre-stored BDT policies from UDR5. Multiple BDT policies may be retrieved.

[0050] (3) Upon receiving a policy provision request, PCF4 instructs SF2 to perform sensing by specifying the area. Next, SF2 issues a sensing instruction to a designated communication device based on the instructions received from PCF4, and receives the sensing results (for example, sensing data for estimating precipitation) from the communication device. Sensing of the communication environment can be performed by any communication device located within the area specified by the policy provision request. The communication device performing the sensing may be a UE located within the area, or a communication device (such as a gNB) that communicates with the UE. SF2 selects a device to perform sensing from among the communication devices in the specified area and issues a sensing instruction. If there are multiple communication devices with sensing capabilities within the specified area, SF2 may select a target from among them. Furthermore, SF2 performs analysis of the communication environment based on the received sensing data. As a result, for example, it can obtain a classification of precipitation in a specified area. The analysis results are then transmitted to PCF4.

[0051] (4) Next, PCF4 selects the BDT policies obtained in (2) above that meet the specified requirements based on the analysis results obtained from SF2, and sends them to AF1.

[0052] [Hardware configuration] Next, we will describe the hardware configuration of each device that makes up the system. Figure 3 shows an example of a hardware configuration for an information processing device that can operate as a network function including SF2 and PCF4, and as an external server, respectively.

[0053] The information processing device 100 can be configured as a computer having a processor (CPU, GPU, etc.), main memory (RAM, ROM, etc.), and auxiliary storage (EPROM, hard disk drive, removable media, etc.). The auxiliary storage contains an operating system (OS), various programs, various tables, etc., and by executing the programs stored therein, various functions (software modules) that match a predetermined purpose, as described later, can be realized. The information processing device 100 may also be a collection of one or more computers (cloud). However, some or all of the functions may be realized as hardware modules by hardware circuits such as ASICs and FPGAs.

[0054] The information processing device 100 comprises a processor 110, a memory 120, and a communication module 130.

[0055] The processor 110 is an arithmetic unit that realizes various functions of the information processing device 100 by executing a predetermined program. The processor 110 can be realized by a hardware processor such as a CPU. The processor 110 may also be configured to include RAM, ROM (Read Only Memory), cache memory, etc.

[0056] Memory 120 is a means of storing information and is composed of storage media such as RAM, magnetic disks, and flash memory. Memory 120 may include main memory and auxiliary storage. The auxiliary storage stores programs executed by the processor 110, data used by those programs, etc. The auxiliary storage may be, for example, EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), hard disk This refers to a hard disk drive or a solid state drive (SSD). Programs stored on auxiliary storage devices include, for example, operating systems (OS) or control programs.

[0057] The communication module 130 is a communication interface for connecting the information processing device 100 to an external network. The communication module 130 includes, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card), an optical line interface, etc., and is configured to communicate with a predetermined network via these.

[0058] [Software Configuration] Next, the software configuration of the information processing device 100 will be described. As mentioned above, the information processing device 100 shown in Figure 3 functions as SF2 and PCF4.

[0059] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the software configuration when the information processing device 100 functions as a PCF4.

[0060] In this embodiment, the processor 110 of the information processing device 100 functions as the control unit 41 of the PCF4. The control unit 41 is configured to include a policy acquisition unit 411, an information collection unit 412, and a policy selection unit 413 as software modules. Each software module may be implemented by the processor 110 (CPU, etc.) executing a program stored in the memory 120.

[0061] The policy acquisition unit 411 acquires a policy (BDT policy) for performing background data transfer (BDT) from UDR5 when requested by AF1.

[0062] Specifically, the policy acquisition unit 411 first receives a BDT policy provision request (policy provision request) from AF1. The policy provision request includes background information. This may include conditions related to the area where on-board data transfer will be performed, the time frame for background data transfer, and the amount of data transferred. The policy acquisition unit 411 retrieves one or more available BDT policy candidates from UDR5 and selects the one that matches the request (area, time frame, etc.). This process conforms to the BDT policy delivery method standardized by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).

[0063] When the policy acquisition unit 411 acquires a candidate BDT policy, it hands over the processing to the information collection unit 412. The information gathering unit 412 requests sensing from SF2 and obtains the result. Hereafter, the data requesting sensing from SF2 will be referred to as a "sensing request". The sensing request sent from PCF4 to SF2 includes an identifier for the area to be sensed.

[0064] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the policy provision request includes an activation flag. The activation flag is a flag that indicates whether or not to perform the selection of a BDT policy based on the communication environment. The information collection unit 412 sends a sensing request to SF2 if the activation flag is true. If the activation flag is false, the BDT policy candidates obtained above are sent to AF1. Note that the policy provision request does not necessarily need to include an activation flag. If the interface between AF1 and PCF4 does not include an activation flag, PCF4, upon receiving the policy provision request, may decide whether or not to perform a BDT policy selection based on the communication environment.

[0065] The information gathering unit 412 instructs SF2 to sense the communication environment (e.g., precipitation) for a specified area. It also obtains the sensing results from SF2. In this embodiment, the sensing results provided by SF2 include a classification of the communication environment (e.g., precipitation) into classes (hereinafter referred to as communication environment classes).

[0066] The policy selection unit 413 selects a candidate BDT policy that meets the specified requirements based on the sensing results obtained from SF2. The policy selection unit 413 stores data defining multiple communication environment classes and which BDT policies are available for each communication environment class. Figure 5 shows an example of such data (referred to as a parameter table). In this embodiment, the parameter table is a table that defines multiple parameters included in the BDT policy for each communication environment class. Examples of multiple parameters included in the BDT policy include, for example, the maximum uplink bitrate, the maximum downlink bitrate, and the time window.

[0067] For example, consider a scenario where the communication environment of UE10 is defined by precipitation, and the classes are defined as "no precipitation," "low precipitation," and "high precipitation." For example, if there is no precipitation, a relatively high maximum bitrate is set. Also, a relatively long time window is set. Conversely, in the event of heavy rainfall, a relatively lower maximum bitrate is set, and a relatively shorter time window is also set.

[0068] The policy selection unit 413 narrows down the candidate BDT policies based on the communication environment class and parameter table obtained from SF2. For example, if there is heavy rainfall, the policy The selection unit 413 selects a BDT policy from the candidates that has a low maximum bitrate and a short time window. In other words, the policy selection unit 413 filters out the BDT policy candidates that do not meet the predetermined requirements and selects the BDT policy that meets those requirements to be provided to AF1.

[0069] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the software configuration when the information processing device 100 functions as SF2.

[0070] In this embodiment, the processor 110 of the information processing device 100 functions as the control unit 21 of SF2. The control unit 21 is configured to include an information acquisition unit 211 and an analysis unit 212 as software modules. Each software module may be implemented by the processor 110 (CPU, etc.) executing a program stored in the memory 120.

[0071] When the information gathering unit 211 receives a sensing request from PCF4, it obtains the results of sensing the communication environment in the specified area. Specifically, the information gathering unit 211 identifies communication devices (UE10 or base stations) located within a designated area and determines which communication devices to perform sensing from among the identified devices. Information regarding communication devices located within a designated area can be obtained, for example, from AMF6 or NWDAF8. Furthermore, the information gathering unit 221 issues a command to the selected communication device to sense the communication environment. It also acquires the sensing results (sensing data) from the said communication device.

[0072] In this embodiment, the target of sensing is precipitation. It is known that the intensity of radio waves (especially millimeter waves) used in cellular communication is attenuated due to precipitation. Therefore, by transmitting and receiving radio waves for measurement and analyzing the characteristics of the propagation path, data for estimating precipitation can be obtained. The data obtained as a result of sensing is called sensing data. Sensing data is data that represents the characteristics of the propagation path, and may be channel information (CSI information) or values ​​obtained by analyzing said information. The information gathering unit 211 transmits the obtained sensing data to the analysis unit 212.

[0073] The information gathering unit 211 can acquire sensing data in two ways. One is to make a one-time request for sensing data to the target communication device in response to a sensing request. The other is to continuously request the acquisition of sensing data during the period in which the sensing request is valid. In this case, the information gathering unit 211 may repeatedly request sensing data at predetermined intervals, or it may register the transmission of sensing data as a subscription. If the transmission of sensing data is registered as a subscription, for example, when the amount of precipitation changes, the target communication device will autonomously transmit sensing data.

[0074] The analysis unit 212 analyzes the communication environment of the target area based on the acquired sensing data. In this embodiment, the analysis of the communication environment is, for example, a process of classifying the estimated precipitation into one of several classes.

[0075] For example, the analysis unit 212 determines, based on the measurement of the strength of the wireless signal, that the communication environment in the target area belongs to the class of "1-5 mm of rainfall per hour." The class obtained as a result of the classification will hereafter be referred to as the "communication environment class." The method for identifying the communication environment class based on sensing data is that SF2 has pre-stored the information. It is also possible to store data showing the relationship between the attenuation of radio wave intensity and the amount of precipitation, and have the analysis unit 212 utilize this data.

[0076] Furthermore, the analysis unit 212 notifies the PCF4 of the communication environment class obtained as a result of the analysis.

[0077] Furthermore, if the information gathering unit 211 periodically acquires sensing data, the analysis unit 212 may perform an analysis each time new sensing data is acquired and notify the PCF4 of the communication environment class.

[0078] Note that the configurations shown in Figures 3, 4, and 6 are examples, and all or part of the illustrated functions may be performed using specially designed circuits. Furthermore, program storage and execution may be performed using combinations of main memory and auxiliary memory other than those shown.

[0079] [Processing flowchart] Next, we will describe a flowchart of the processes performed by devices or network functions included in a 5G system. Figure 7 is a flowchart of the process by which PCF4 obtains a BDT policy based on a policy provision request sent from AF1. The process shown in Figure 7 begins when AF1 issues a policy provision request. AF1 issues a policy provision request that includes data specifying the area (target area) where background data transfer will be performed (e.g., an area identifier).

[0080] First, in step S11, the control unit 41 (policy acquisition unit 411) of PCF4 receives a policy provision request sent from AF1. The policy provision request is sent from AF1 to SF2 via NEF7.

[0081] The policy provision request includes the area and time frame for background data transfer, as well as an activation flag. The activation flag specifies whether or not to select a BDT policy based on the results of sensing the communication environment.

[0082] Next, in step S12, the control unit 41 (policy acquisition unit 411) acquires a pre-stored BDT policy from the UDR5. If BDT policies are stored for each application service provider (ASP), the policy acquisition unit 411 may acquire the BDT policy corresponding to the target ASP. BDT policies are acquired, for example, by the Nudr_DM_Query service API.

[0083] Next, in step S13, the control unit 41 (information collection unit 412) determines the activation flag included in the policy provision request. If the activation flag is true, the process proceeds to step S14. If the activation flag is false, the process proceeds to step S16. As mentioned above, the activation flag does not necessarily have to be included in the policy provision request. If the activation flag is not included in the policy provision request, the information collection unit 412 may determine in step S13 whether or not to select a BDT policy based on the sensing results.

[0084] In step S14, the control unit 41 (information acquisition unit 412) acquires the sensing results from SF2. In this step, the information gathering unit 412 first sends data requesting sensing (sensing request) to SF2. The sensing request includes data regarding the specification of the target area, the object to be sensed, and the procedure for sensing the object. It's okay to be there.

[0085] Furthermore, sensing requests may include data specifying the number of sensing operations, the frequency, and the timing. For example, a sensing request may request immediate sensing, or it may request sensing at a specified time. It may also be a request to monitor the sensing target and request the transmission of sensing data when the conditions are met (a subscription registration request).

[0086] Furthermore, the information gathering unit 412 receives the results (communication environment class) obtained by analyzing the sensing data from SF2.

[0087] Next, in step S15, the policy selection unit 413 selects a BDT policy candidate that satisfies the specified requirements based on the communication environment class obtained from SF2. For example, the policy selection unit 413 extracts a BDT policy that satisfies the predetermined requirements from the BDT policy candidates obtained in step S12 by referring to the stored parameter table.

[0088] Then, in step S16, the policy selection unit 413 sends the extracted BDT policy to AF1. If no BDT policy suitable for the communication environment class is extracted, PCF4 may notify AF1 accordingly.

[0089] Figure 8 is a flowchart of the process in which SF2 performs sensing based on a sensing request sent from PCF4 and notifies PCF4 of the results (i.e., the process performed in step S14 of Figure 7). The process shown in Figure 8 starts when PCF4 issues a sensing request.

[0090] First, in step S21, the control unit 21 (information acquisition unit 211) of SF2 receives a sensing request transmitted from PCF4. A sensing request includes data that identifies the area to be sensed.

[0091] Next, in step S22, the control unit 21 (information collection unit 211) determines the communication device to perform sensing. The communication device to perform sensing can be a communication device (UE10 or base station (gNB)) located within the target area. Information regarding the communication device located within the target area can be obtained, for example, from AMF6 or NWDAF8.

[0092] Next, in step S23, the control unit 21 (information collection unit 211) transmits data requesting sensing to the communication device determined in step S22.

[0093] In step S24, the designated communication device performs sensing. When sensing precipitation, for example, precipitation can be indirectly estimated by measuring the attenuation of radio wave intensity in the propagation path between the UE and the base station.

[0094] Wireless sensing can be performed using four types of devices: initiator, responder, transmitter, and receiver. The initiator is the device that starts the sensing procedure and ultimately obtains the sensing results, the transmitter is the device that actually transmits the sensing signal, the responder is the device that participates in sensing according to the instructions from the initiator, and the receiver is the device that receives the signal transmitted from the transmitter. The initiator and transmitter may be the same device, while the responder and receiver may be The same device may be used. For example, UE10 may act as both initiator and transmitter, and the base station may act as both responder and receiver. Of course, the roles can also be reversed. Furthermore, the initiator can act as the receiver and the responder as the transmitter. In this case, the responder transmits a sensing signal according to the initiator's instructions, and the initiator generates the sensing results.

[0095] Once sensing is complete, sensing data is transmitted from the initiator UE10 or base station (step S25-Yes). The sensing data is received by the information collection unit 211.

[0096] Next, in step S26, the control unit 21 (analysis unit 212) analyzes the amount of precipitation in the target area based on the sensing data and determines the communication environment class. The analysis unit 212 may, for example, use data showing the relationship between the amount of attenuation of radio wave intensity and the amount of precipitation to determine the communication environment class. The communication environment class obtained from the analysis is transmitted from SF2 to PCF4.

[0097] [Example of a sequence for providing BDT policies] Figure 9 shows an example of the processing sequence from when AF1 issues a policy provision request until the BDT policy is provided to AF1.

[0098] First, in step S31, AF1 sends the Nnef_BDTPNegotiation_Create message to NEF7. NEF7 then sends the Npcf_BDTPolicyControl_Create_request message to PCF4. These messages are requests to provide a BDT policy. This is a policy provision request. The message includes the area and time frame specified by AF1, as well as the activation flag.

[0099] In step S32, PCF4 sends a Nudr_DM_Query_request message to UDR5. A message is sent. This message requests the provision of information stored in UDR5. The message may include data requesting a BDT policy corresponding to a specified ASP as the subject of the information provision.

[0100] In step S33, a Nudr_DM_Query_response message is sent from UDR5 to PCF4. This message contains one or more BDT policies held by UDR5.

[0101] In step S34, a sensing request is sent from PCF4 to SF2. The sensing request includes an identifier for the target area. Upon receiving a sensing request, SF2 identifies communication devices within the specified area and determines which communication device to perform sensing from among the identified devices. In this embodiment, any UE (or gNB) within the specified area can be an initiator, transmitter, responder, or receiver. SF2 senses the communication environment of the target area using the determined communication device and determines the communication environment class based on the obtained sensing data.

[0102] In step S35, a sensing response is sent from SF2 to PCF4. This message includes the communication environment class determined by SF2.

[0103] In step S36, PCF4 performs the process described in step S15, which determines the BDT policy.

[0104] In step S37, the Npcf_BDTPolicyControl_Create_response message is sent from PCF4 to NEF7. Also, the Nnef_BDTPNegotiation_Create_response message is sent from NEF7 to AF1. These messages are sent in step S31. A response to a sent Npcf_BDTPolicyControl_Create_request message (and Nnef_BDTPNegotiation_Create_request), containing one or more BDT policies.

[0105] If PCF4 sends two or more BDT policies to AF1, AF1 will decide which BDT policy to actually adopt. Therefore, in such cases, AF1 may send information to PCF4 after step S37 is executed to identify the BDT policy adopted by AF1.

[0106] Upon receiving a BDT policy, AF1 performs a predetermined process to instruct its subordinate UEs to apply the BDT policy, for example, by using the Nnef_ApplyPolicy service, in order to have them perform background data transfer.

[0107] (Modification of the first embodiment) According to the first embodiment, in response to a request from AF1, a predetermined UE can be made to perform background data transfer according to the weather. On the other hand, because weather around the UE is constantly changing, a BDT policy that has been applied may no longer be suitable for the actual environment. For example, if precipitation changes, the BDT policy may need to be modified.

[0108] For example, in the process shown in Figure 9, the UE10 (or base station) that performed the sensing may retransmit the sensing data in response to changes in weather. For example, SF2 may request continuous sensing from the UE10 (base station). A continuous sensing request is, for example, a request to transmit sensing data at predetermined intervals, or a request to retransmit sensing data when the sensing result changes. In this case, the transmission of sensing data will be repeated, for example, unless the subscription is canceled.

[0109] In such cases, UE10 (or the base station) may retransmit the sensing data. In this case, SF2 performs a re-analysis based on the received sensing data and transmits the communication environment class to PCF4.

[0110] PCF4 determines whether the communication environment class has been updated based on the message received from SF2. If the communication environment class has been updated, PCF4 re-selects the BDT policy corresponding to the updated communication environment class and notifies AF1. With this configuration, the BDT policy can be re-selected in response to changes in weather.

[0111] Furthermore, SF2 may determine whether or not the communication environment class has been updated. For example, if SF2 finds that the communication environment obtained from the analysis has changed since the previous time, it may notify PCF4 accordingly.

[0112] (modified version) The embodiments described above are merely examples, and this disclosure may be modified as appropriate without departing from its essence. For example, the processes and means described in this disclosure can be freely combined and implemented, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise.

[0113] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, SF2 is assumed to be a newly established network function, but SF2 may be a modified version of an existing network function. For example, a network function that provides network analysis information, such as NWDAF8, may be operated as SF2.

[0114] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, SF2 notified PCF4 of the determined communication environment class (a class representing precipitation), but SF2 may also acquire other information and notify PCF4 of it. For example, if the network functions provided by the core network include OAM (Operation and Maintenance), SF2 may obtain energy-related information from OAM. i. Energy-related information may include information on renewable energy (for example, the amount of electricity generated by solar power). If OAM provides information on renewable energy, SF2 may, for example, use this to estimate the amount of renewable energy actually available in the area specified by AF1. By adding precipitation sensing results to the information provided by OAM, the amount of renewable energy actually available in a given area can be estimated with high accuracy. Therefore, SF2 may perform such estimations and provide the estimation results to PCF4. PCF4 may then select a BDT policy based on these estimation results. This allows for, for example, in a 5G system, if there is a constraint such as "using renewable energy for background data transfer" and the amount of renewable energy actually available is small, it to be possible to reduce the power consumed for background data transfer. Energy-related information may also be provided by network functions (NFs) other than OAM within the core network.

[0115] In the first embodiment, PCF4 receives the communication environment class, but PCF4 may also receive other data related to policy control and use this in conjunction to select a BDT policy.

[0116] Furthermore, a process described as being performed by a single device may be divided and executed by multiple devices. Conversely, a process described as being performed by different devices may be executed by a single device. In a computer system, the hardware configuration (server configuration) by which each function is implemented can be flexibly changed.

[0117] The present disclosure can also be realized by supplying a computer program implementing the functions described in the embodiments above to a computer, and having one or more processors in the computer read and execute the program. Such a computer program may be provided to the computer by a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium that can be connected to the computer's system bus, or it may be provided to the computer via a network. Non-temporary computer-readable storage mediums include, for example, any type of disk such as magnetic disks (floppy disks, hard disk drives (HDDs), etc.), optical disks (CD-ROMs, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic cards, flash memory, optical cards, and any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0118] 1···AF 2..SF 3..SMF 4..PCF 5..UDR 6..AMF 7···NEF 8···NWDAF 10···UE 20···RAN 30 UPF 40···DN

Claims

1. The first NF (Network Function) in the core network is The first step is to acquire data that is the result of sensing the communication environment in a designated area, Based on the first data, the BDT (Background Data Transfer) policy used when the first UE (User Equipment) located within the predetermined area performs background data transfer is obtained, An information processing method that performs [this action].

2. The first NF is, From the second NF, obtain the request to acquire the BDT policy. If the acquisition request includes a sensing instruction for the communication environment, the first data is acquired. The information processing method according to claim 1.

3. The third NF in the aforementioned core network, Sensing data obtained by sensing the communication environment of the predetermined area from a communication device located within the predetermined area, and generating the first data based on the sensing data, The information processing method according to claim 1.

4. The third NF analyzes the communication environment of the predetermined area based on the acquired sensing data and generates the first data including the results of the analysis. The information processing method according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned communication environment is the precipitation conditions around the first UE. The information processing method according to claim 1.

6. The first NF is, Retrieve multiple pre-stored BDT policies from the UDR (Unified Data Repository). Gain, Based on the first data, one or more BDT policies that satisfy predetermined requirements are selected from the acquired BDT policies. The information processing method according to claim 1.

7. A program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. An information processing device that functions as the first NF (Network Function) in the core network, The first step is to acquire data that is the result of sensing the communication environment in a designated area, Based on the first data, the BDT (Background Data Transfer) policy used when the first UE (User Equipment) located within the predetermined area performs background data transfer is obtained, An information processing device having a control unit that performs the following.

9. The control unit obtains a request to acquire the BDT policy from the second NF, and if the acquisition request includes a sensing instruction for the communication environment, it acquires the first data. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8.

10. The control unit, The sensing is performed by a communication device located within the predetermined area via a third NF within the core network. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8.

11. The first data is data obtained by the third NF analyzing the sensing results. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The aforementioned communication environment is the precipitation conditions around the first UE. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8.

13. The control unit, Retrieve multiple pre-stored BDT policies from the UDR (Unified Data Repository). Gain, Based on the first data, one or more BDT policies that satisfy predetermined requirements are selected from the acquired BDT policies. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8.

14. The first data is received from the first NF (Network Function) in the core network, which is a request to sense a predetermined target in order to generate a communication policy for background data transfer, In response to the first data, sensing data obtained by sensing the predetermined target is transmitted to the first NF, A wireless communication device having a control unit that performs the following.

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