Method and apparatus for identifying a traffic pattern and controlling a network function

Abstract

The method includes processing first data from the network node to determine that the mobile device is accessing the communications network and to identify a first traffic pattern. The method also includes retrieving a first network function from a database corresponding to the first traffic pattern. The method further includes activating, by the network device, the first network function based on the first traffic pattern. The method further includes processing second data from the network node to determine that the communications network is no longer accessed by the mobile device and to identify a second traffic pattern. The method also includes retrieving a second network function from a database corresponding to the second traffic pattern. The method further includes deactivating the first network function and activating the second network function by the network device based on the second traffic pattern.

Description

Background Art

[0001] Network service providers and equipment manufacturers (such as those for wireless, mobile phones, etc.) are always required to provide value and convenience to consumers by offering attractive network services that are, for example, highly reliable, flexible to build, expand, diversify, and operate economically.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0002] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Note that various features are not drawn to scale in accordance with industry standard practices. In fact, dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion.

[0003]

Figure 1

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Figure 2

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Figure 3

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0006] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. To simplify the present disclosure, specific examples of components and arrangements are described below. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, in the following description, the formation or position of a first feature above or on a second feature may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed or positioned in direct contact, or embodiments in which additional features may be formed or positioned between the first and second features so that the first and second features are not in direct contact. Further, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself define a relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations described.

[0007] Furthermore, spatially relative terms such as "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc. in the present disclosure may be used to describe a relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as illustrated in the figures for ease of explanation. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device or object in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The device may be in other orientations (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise), and the spatially relative descriptors used in the present disclosure are to be interpreted accordingly.

[0008] Network services are often provided by static and inflexible systems that are difficult to configure, expand, or deploy according to various target regions. Reliable network systems and network services that enable flexible construction, expansion, and diversification often rely on automating the collection, analysis, and reporting of information on multiple network functions, network services, and network devices that affect at least one of performance, accessibility, configuration, expansion, deployment, etc. of communication networks, various network functions, and network services.

[0009] Network service providers may notice traffic patterns or key performance indicators (KPIs) indicating that the performance of a communication network improves when using network functions or support packages related to the communication network. However, the events and traffic patterns that led to the improvement are in the past. The same events and traffic patterns may occur, or similar events and traffic patterns may occur. For example, network engineers often start the time-consuming task of searching for network functions to improve the performance of a communication network and apply them to the network at a certain moment. However, even if a network engineer knows a specific traffic pattern, they need to find some well-known network functions to activate in order to improve the performance of the communication network. Without regularly occurring traffic patterns or well-known network functions with a good reputation, it is difficult to timely activate network functions that improve the performance of the communication network. Delays in improving the performance of the communication network will cause dissatisfaction among consumers and result in lost sales. Also, keeping network functions always in an operating state may lead to an increase in operating costs and waste of network resources.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a communication system 100 that facilitates the learning of various traffic patterns and the implementation of network functions to improve the performance of a communication network according to one or more embodiments.

[0011] The communication system 100 includes a network management platform 101, a database 103, one or more network nodes 105, and one or more network devices 107.

[0012] In some embodiments, the communication system 100 corresponds to an evolved packet core (EPC) in a fourth generation mobile communication system (4G), or a 5G core network (5GC) including an access and mobility management function (AMF), a session management function (SMF), a user plane function (UPF), etc. in a fifth generation mobile communication system (5G). In some embodiments, each of one or more components of the communication system 100 is implemented by a group of servers arranged in a plurality of data centers in various locations. In some embodiments, a plurality of servers are arranged in one or more data centers. Each of the one or more servers described with respect to the various embodiments discussed herein is a computer or a processor-based system having a processor and a memory, as described with respect to the computer or processor-based system 300 (FIG. 3).

[0013] In some embodiments, the communication system 100 is configured to provide one or more of a voice communication service, a data communication service, an IoT (Internet-of-Things) service, and other suitable network services to a user equipment 109 (UE109). The UE109 has connectivity to a communication network, which is one or more of a telecommunications network, a wireless communication network, a data communication network, or other suitable networks provided by the communication system 100. The UE109 can be communicatively connected to the communication network, for example, by a network node 105 and / or a network device 107. In some embodiments, the UE109 includes a mobile device, a mobile phone, a mobile terminal, a fixed terminal, a portable terminal, or a combination thereof. The device is a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a netbook computer, a tablet computer, a wearable circuit, a mobile handset, a server, a gaming console, a vehicle control unit, a vehicle communication unit, a smart device, other suitable devices considered as IoT devices, or other suitable devices having connectivity with data transmission capabilities.

[0014] The network management platform 101 is configured to perform at least one of identifying a corresponding network function to be implemented when a specified traffic pattern occurs by analyzing network traffic patterns in real time, and implementing one or more network functions based on the occurrence of the specified traffic pattern. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 identifies traffic patterns related to the communication network by one or more of the network nodes 105 or the network devices 107. The network device 107 is a wireless station, a radio frequency (RF) emitter, or other suitable network component, and is configured to communicate data to the network management platform 101 via a network protocol stack, logs of the corresponding protocol layer, or direct communication when identifying traffic patterns by comparing data with information stored in the database 103. In some embodiments, the network node 105 is an evolved Node B (eNB) of 4G, a logical Node B (gNB) of 5G, a new radio (NR) base station, or other suitable node. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 comprises a set of computer-readable instructions. When the set of computer-readable instructions is executed by a processor such as the processor 303 (FIG. 3), it causes the network management platform 101 to perform the processes described by one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is remote from the network nodes 105 and the network devices 107. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is part of one or more of the network nodes 105 or the network devices 107. In some embodiments, one or more processes configured to be performed by the network management platform 101 are divided between one or more of the network nodes 105 or the network devices 107 and a processor remote from at least one of the network nodes 105 and the network devices 107.In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is at least partially implemented by the UE 109.

[0015] In some embodiments, the database 103 is a market on the network, a store on the network, an online store, or a centralized network repository storing searchable information, where the searchable information is traffic pattern matching data, rules defining various traffic patterns, network functions executable in a given scenario related to the traffic pattern, or information capable of defining the traffic pattern thereby. Elements of the given scenario include any one or more of communication network usage, timing, connected devices, location, network resource consumption, cost data, network KPIs, and other suitable elements. The database 103 is a memory such as the memory 305 (FIG. 3) and can be queried and store data according to one or more embodiments.

[0016] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 identifies the corresponding network function by processing data using the entire internal logic and the specified functional items or related support packages in the target geographical area. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to cause one or more of the network nodes 105 or network devices 107 to store a portion of the protocol log and data indicating traffic patterns. In some embodiments, the segment is processed by the network node 105 or network device to identify a network function or support package corresponding to the traffic pattern or KPI, and provides information regarding the corresponding network function to the network node 105, network device 107, or user. The information includes, for example, the name of the network function or support package, the processes associated with implementing the network function or support package, one or more system requirements for implementing the network function or support package, permission to use the network function or support package, or other suitable information that can be used to improve the performance of the communication network by enabling or disabling the network function of the support package. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 causes the network device 107 to communicate with the network node 105 via a plurality of operations support systems (OSS). Thereby, the current configuration of the network node 105 is retrieved, and a support package is prepared based on intelligent data such as network functions, system requirements, traffic patterns, or KPIs.

[0017] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to identify network functions related to traffic patterns or KPIs based on third-generation partnership project (3GPP (registered trademark)) protocols or similar protocol logs within a long-distance communication network. The network node 105 obtains, for example, the protocol logs, counter information, or an overview of the traffic patterns of the ongoing long-distance communication traffic within the communication system. In this example, the network node 105 is the first entity that uses the 3GPP protocol stack to obtain protocol logs or traffic patterns, and extracts call processing messages such as L1, L2, L3, non-access stratum (NAS) layers, long-distance communication network intelligent information messages, counters or KPI data, or other appropriate protocol messages corresponding to a user-defined time session or roll over period (ROP). The protocol logs are communicated to the network management platform 101 via an open operation and maintenance (O&M) interface such as, for example, the O-RAN (Open Radio Access Network) interface, or other appropriate interfaces, for processing by the network management platform 101 and storage in the database 103.

[0018] The network management platform 101 has internal logic commands. When executed, the internal logic commands cause the network management platform 101 to process data received from the network node 105. In this example, thereby, based on one or more UEs 109 accessing the communication network, a scenario of "ongoing" traffic is identified, and the optimal network function for improving the performance of the communication network is identified within the database 103. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 correlates the identified traffic pattern with the identified network function and creates a support package corresponding to the target network node 105. In some embodiments, the support package is the activation of one identified network function corresponding to a specific scenario regarding the traffic pattern. In some embodiments, the support package is, for example, the configuration of one or more network functions implemented by the target network node 105. The network management platform 101 issues a command to enable the one network function or activates the support package as a command to implement the one or more network functions at the target network node 105. Thereafter, the network node 105 enables the one network function or the one or more network functions based on the received command or configuration package and resumes obtaining protocol logs according to a user-defined time session or ROP.

[0019] During use, the network management platform 101 effectively coordinates the communication network provided by the communication system 100 by facilitating communication between one or more network devices 107 and / or one or more network nodes 105 that have a communication connection, either directly or indirectly, with the management platform 101. The network management platform 101 receives data from the network nodes 105 and / or network devices 107 and determines whether the UE 109 is actively accessing the communication network. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 receives data from the network devices 107 and determines whether the UE 109 is actively accessing the communication network. In some embodiments, the data is communicated in real time from the network nodes 105 and / or network devices 107 to the network management platform 101. Based on the determination that the UE 109 is actively accessing the communication network, the network management platform 101 identifies a first traffic pattern associated with the communication network. The network management platform 101 searches the database 103 for a first network function corresponding to the identified first traffic pattern. The network management platform 101 causes a first instruction to be sent to the network device 107 to activate the first network function based on the identified first traffic pattern. For example, if the network device 107 is composed of multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, and according to the rules in the database 103, the identified first traffic pattern is defined as a pattern in which the UE 109 is actively accessing the communication network, and operating the MIMO is a network function corresponding to the first traffic pattern according to the information stored in the database 103, the network management platform 101 operates the MIMO.

[0020] Subsequently, the network management platform 101 processes the data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107 to determine whether the communication network is still being accessed by the UE 109. At a certain point, if the data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107 indicates that the communication network has stopped being accessed by the UE 109, the network management platform 101 identifies a second traffic pattern based on the determination that the communication network has stopped being accessed by the UE 109. Next, the network management platform 101 searches the database 103 for a second network function corresponding to the identified second traffic pattern. Further, by sending a second instruction to the network device 107, the operation of the first network function is stopped and the second network function is operated based on the identified second traffic pattern. For example, if the network device 107 includes MIMO and a single antenna, the second network function operates the single antenna. In this example, the network device 107 operates the network function, but in some embodiments, optionally, the network node 105 operates the network function. In some embodiments, optionally, a combination of the network node 105 and the network device 107 operates the network function.

[0021] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 processes data received from the network nodes 105 and / or the network devices 107 to identify a first traffic pattern related to the communication network, and in so doing, determines whether the data received from the network nodes 105 and / or the network devices 107 indicates information within a predefined tolerance range for the first traffic pattern. Next, based on the determination that the first data indicates information within the predefined tolerance range, the network management platform 101 determines that the first traffic pattern has occurred. For example, if the first traffic pattern is defined as occurring when a certain UE 109 accesses the communication network between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., and the second UE 109 is also accessing the communication network at the same time, and the predefined tolerance range is set to plus or minus 5 minutes, then based on the determination that two UEs 109 are accessing the communication network within the predefined tolerance range for the time interval set for the first traffic pattern, the network management platform 101 determines that there is data identifying that the first traffic pattern has occurred. In some embodiments, the predefined tolerance range is a combination of multiple variables or events that occur in a given order or within a predetermined time interval, and that may deviate from what is considered an exact match to the rules defining a particular traffic pattern. However, the network management platform 101 is configured to recognize that a particular traffic pattern has occurred if the actual traffic pattern is close enough to what is established by its tolerance range and the flexible combination of variables or events, and to facilitate the improvement of the performance of the communication network even if an exact match for a particular traffic pattern does not occur exactly.

[0022] Similarly, in some embodiments, if the network function assigned to a specificable traffic pattern is not in the database 103, or if the network function assigned to a traffic pattern that exactly matches the actively occurring traffic pattern is not in the database 103, the network management platform 101 is configured to identify the most similar network function to be launched based on the network functions that the network management platform 101 would operate in response to other specificable traffic patterns that differ from the actively occurring traffic pattern based on a predefined tolerance range.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first network function is the antenna port of the MIMO layer. In some embodiments, the first network function operates the MIMO antenna. In some embodiments, the second network function is the antenna port of a single layer. In some embodiments, the second network function activates a single antenna. In some embodiments, the second network function is the default network function. In some embodiments, the first network function or the second network function can be turned on or off, increased or minimized, or other suitable functions, services, rules, quantity limits, etc. that can be selectively provided at a predefined tolerance value. For example, the first traffic pattern is defined as an event that occurs when a certain UE109 accesses the communication network between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm. In a situation where two UE109s are accessing the communication network at 10:45, the first traffic pattern has not yet occurred. However, if it is determined that a third UE109 is accessing the communication network at 10:50 am, the network management platform 101 activates the network function corresponding to a predefined tolerance value of plus or minus 5 minutes. This is to determine that the first traffic pattern occurs at 10:55 am when at least one UE109 is accessing the communication network regardless of whether those three UE109s are accessing the communication network at 10:50 am, and to activate the first network function corresponding to the first traffic pattern based on the flexibility implemented by the activation of the predefined tolerance value.

[0024] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 determines the time when the UE 109 is actively accessing the communication network 101, and based on the determination that the time when the UE 109 is actively accessing the communication network 101 is within the time interval defined in at least one rule associated with the first network function stored in the database 103, it causes a first instruction to be sent to the network device 107 to activate the first network function. In some embodiments, the at least one rule is strictly adhered to, and the time interval defined by the rule is strictly bounded. In some embodiments, the at least one rule is somewhat flexible based on a predetermined tolerance value or any one or more of the network functions operating with the predetermined tolerance value.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first network function is control plane overload control, which limits the number of communication network connection requests within the time interval.

[0026] In some embodiments, the UE 109 is one of a plurality of UEs 109 actively accessing the communication network 101, and the at least one rule defines a threshold corresponding to the usage amount of physical resource blocks and the number of a plurality of UEs 109 actively accessing the communication network. The network management platform 101 causes a first instruction to be sent to the network device 107 to activate the first network function based on the determination that the first data indicates that the usage amount of physical resource blocks and the number of a plurality of UEs 109 actively accessing the communication network exceed the threshold.

[0027] In some embodiments, UE109 is one of a plurality of UEs 109 that are actively accessing the communication network, and at least one rule defines a threshold corresponding to the number of UEs 109 that actively access the communication network within a time interval. Based on the determination that the first data indicates that the number of UEs 109 that actively access the communication network exceeds the threshold within the time interval, the network management platform 101 causes a first command to be sent to the network device 107 to activate a first network function.

[0028] In some embodiments, UE109 is one of a plurality of UEs 109, and the at least one rule defines a threshold corresponding to the number of UEs 109 that attempt or request access to the communication network within a preset time interval defined by the at least one rule. Based on the determination that the first data indicates that the number of UEs 109 that attempt access to the communication network exceeds the threshold within the time interval, the network management platform 101 causes a first command to be sent to the network device 107 to activate a first network function.

[0029] In some embodiments, the data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107 is composed of device capability information corresponding to the UEs 109 that are actively accessing the communication network. Based on the determination that the first data indicates that the UEs 109 can utilize the first network function, the network management platform 101 causes a first command to be sent to the network device 107 to activate the first network function.

[0030] In some embodiments, stopping the operation of the first network function and activating the second network function is a power-saving process related to the communication network.

[0031] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 processes data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107 to identify a first traffic pattern related to the communication network. The first traffic pattern is an instance where one or more UEs 109 are actively accessing the communication network or requesting access to the communication network. Based on the identified first traffic pattern, the network management platform 101 causes a first command to be sent to the network device 107 to activate a first network function. Thereafter, the network management platform 101 causes a network support package to be stored in the database 103. The network support package includes a criterion defining an exact match of the first traffic pattern and a cross-reference with the first network function. In some embodiments, the network support package further includes at least one rule including a tolerance value or a tolerance range for the first traffic pattern to be identified other than an exact match. The network management platform 101 processes second data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107 to identify a second traffic pattern related to the communication network. In this example, the second traffic pattern is an instance where one or more of the time, number, and location of one or more UEs 109, each of which is actively accessing the communication network or requesting access to the communication network, is different from the first traffic pattern and cannot be determined to be the first traffic pattern based on the criterion defining the exact match of the first traffic pattern and at least one rule. Next, based on the identified second traffic pattern, the network management platform 101 causes a second command to be sent to the network device 107 to deactivate the first network function.Thereafter, the network management platform 101 processes the third data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107 to identify a first traffic pattern based on the at least one rule, and sends a third command to the network device 107 to activate a first network function based on the first traffic pattern identified based on the third data.

[0032] In some embodiments, the network support package is a first network support package among a plurality of network support packages stored in the database 103. Each network support package of the plurality of network support packages has a criterion defining a corresponding traffic pattern, a cross-reference to different network functions, and a corresponding rule including an allowable value or an allowable range for the corresponding traffic pattern to be identified other than an exact match. The network management platform 101 sends the third command to the network device 107 based on a determination that the third data is closer to the first traffic pattern than the traffic patterns corresponding to other network support packages stored in the database 103. The determination that the third data is closer to the first traffic pattern than the other traffic patterns is made based on the allowable value or the allowable range indicated by the corresponding rule of each network support package.

[0033] The network management platform 101 enables at least one of cost reduction related to the operation of the communication network, network resource conservation, cloud resource management, and minimization of power consumption by activating and deactivating various network functions based on traffic patterns and / or KPIs.

[0034] For example, in some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to turn on or off the 5G ENDC (Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) New Radio - Dual Connectivity)-MIMO layer based on data indicating the NR - compliant UE 109 and time intervals received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107, and to increase or decrease the NR physical resource block (PRB) utilization rate, at least one of which is based on the user's availability. First, the network management platform 101 turns off the MIMO layer in the downlink based on data indicating a traffic pattern where there is no UE 109 actively accessing the communication network and / or no UE 109 having the ability to utilize the network services associated with the 5G ENDC - MIMO layer. Network nodes 105 such as the LTE (Long - term Evolution) eNB and the L3 of the 5G gNB detect the UE 109 accessing the communication network and detect the UE 109's capability information such as "en - DC - r15 supported, supportedBandListEN - DC - r15". Based on this information, the ENDC - compliant master eNB (MeNB) (LTE) node transfers the "unavailable" users of the 5G - SCG (secondary cell group) present in this area. The LTE MeNB collects this information over a pre - set time interval (e.g., 15 - minute ROP). The LTE node sends this information to the network management platform 101 as a sample for evaluating the situation. The network management platform 101 processes the data received from the LTE node and determines that the traffic pattern of the "5G users" has become "0".Based on the determination that a 5G user is not accessing the communication network, the network management platform 101 identifies the network functions corresponding to the traffic pattern, prepares a "function installation package" to turn off MIMO, and configures the relevant 5G nodes to turn off the MIMO layer and transmit only on a single antenna port. Subsequently, when it is detected that the 5G-enabled UE is actively accessing the communication network, the network management platform 101 identifies such a traffic pattern and turns on the MIMO layer.

[0035] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 determines the most similar one regarding which network function to activate for a traffic pattern that does not exactly match either the previously identified traffic pattern or the network functions available in a given network. For example, in the case of a traffic pattern where the UE 109 accessing the communication is identified as "en-DC-r15 Supported", the network management platform 101 searches the database 103 for the network function that is closest to the network function applied when the available network functions exactly match. However, in this case, since the network management platform 101 cannot find an exact match in the database 103, it activates one of the network functions that can be most appropriately applied to the current network topology in which the UE 109 is configured as indicated by the data received from the network node 105 and / or the network device 107.

[0036] As another example, in some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to cause a reduction in the NR PRB utilization rate based on the number of NR-capable UEs 109 within a preset time interval. For example, the network management platform 101 is configured to set an upper limit on the PRB usage per UE 109 based on network load and timing. Regarding the operator deployment of sub-6FR1 frequencies, there is only one oscillator in the radio unit. For example, even when the network management platform 101 enables the 2X2 MIMO mode, in such an assumption, at least 300W of power is consumed in at least a part of the idle communication system 100. In the maximum load state, a part of the communication system 100 consumes 700W, and the maximum PRB 272 conducts a data session. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 sets a 50% levy on the 5G PRB allocation as the upper limit of the radio unit PRB utilization rate from 12:00 am to 5:00 am in the off-peak time interval based on the number of active UEs 109 accessing the communication network in the current time interval. In other words, in this example, the identifiable traffic pattern is one in which the number of UEs 109 actively accessing the communication network is equal to or less than a preset threshold within a preset time interval, and the network function is to limit the PRB allocation to 50%. By means of functions such as turning the PRB usage on and off or limiting the usage amount, the power consumption is reduced, enabling the end user to make the most of the LTE bandwidth available for traffic. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to identify and apply appropriate network functions in real time as needed to optimize the performance of the communication network while minimizing power consumption according to at least any one of the identified traffic patterns, rules, and KPIs. In some embodiments, the network node 105 controls the PRB mechanism based on the user load to save power.In some embodiments, the network node 105 is configured to prevent the UE 109 from using 100% of the PRB capacity during off-peak hours, and to reduce power consumption and return from 100% PRB utilization rate when the number of UEs 109 accessing the communication network increases to a predetermined threshold.

[0037] In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to activate network functions related to overload control of the eNodeB based on the identified traffic pattern. In control plane overload control, the number of connection requests such as radio resource control (RRC) connection requests, handover (HO) requests, other appropriate requests, or paging requests that the eNodeB has to process within a certain time period is restricted. For example, based on data indicating "paging-threshold", "s1ap-ho-threshold", "x2ap-ho-threshold", "rrc-conxn-threshold", etc. communicated from the network node 105 to the network management platform 101, the network management platform 101 restricts the number of threshold requests to a number according to at least one rule.

[0038] As another example, in some embodiments, the network management platform 101 is configured to activate network functions related to overload control of the gNB based on the specified traffic pattern. In this example, control plane overload control restricts the number of connection requests such as RRC connection requests, HO requests, other appropriate requests, or paging requests that the gNB has to process within a certain time period. For example, based on data indicating "paging-threshold", "ngap-ho-threshold", "ngap-ho-threshold", "rrc-conxn-threshold", etc. communicated from the network node 105 to the network management platform 101, the network management platform 101 restricts the number of threshold requests to a number according to at least one rule.

[0039] As another example, in some embodiments, the network management platform 101 enables a network function related to DL 256QAM and is configured to determine that the DL 256QAM function is required and to be executed only when it is determined, based on data received from the network node 105 in response to information received from the UE 109 reporting the ability to support the downlink (DL) 256QAM function in a capability message, that a capable UE 109 is accessing the communication network. In some embodiments, capabilities related to other network functions, such as a WiFi access point (AP), IMS, 5G core network, or other suitable network function / execution / support capabilities, are similarly reported by the UE 109 to the network node 105 and then reported to the network management platform 101 for processing based on the determined capabilities of the UE 109 actively accessing the communication network and for enabling or disabling the network function.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a process 200 in learning various traffic patterns and implementing network functions to improve the performance of a communication network according to one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the network management platform 101 (FIG. 1) executes the process 200 and is implemented, for example, within a chipset including a processor and a memory as shown in FIG. 3 or by a similar chipset.

[0041] In step 201, the first data received from the network node is processed to determine that the mobile device is actively (actively) accessing the communication network and to identify the first traffic pattern related to the communication network. In some embodiments, the processing of the first data to identify the first traffic pattern related to the communication network includes determining whether the first data indicates information within a predetermined tolerance range for the first traffic pattern, and based on the determination that the first data indicates information within the predetermined tolerance range, determining that the first traffic pattern has occurred.

[0042] In step 203, the first network function corresponding to the identified first traffic pattern is retrieved from the database. In some embodiments, the first network function is the antenna port of the MIMO layer.

[0043] In step 205, a first command is sent to the network device to activate the first network function based on the identified first traffic pattern.

[0044] In step 207, the second data received from the network node is processed to determine that the communication network is no longer accessed by the mobile device and to identify the second traffic pattern.

[0045] In step 209, the second network function corresponding to the identified second traffic pattern is retrieved from the database. In some embodiments, the second network function is the antenna port of a single layer. In some embodiments, the second network function is the default network function.

[0046] In step 211, a second command is sent to the network device to stop the operation of the first network function and to activate the second network function based on the identified second traffic pattern.

[0047] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram of a computer or processor-based system 300 in which one embodiment is implemented.

[0048] The processor-based system 300 is programmed to learn various traffic patterns and implement network functions to improve the performance of a communication network, as described herein, and includes, for example, a bus 301, a processor 303, and a memory 305 as components.

[0049] In some embodiments, the processor-based system is implemented as a single "system on a chip". The processor-based system 300 or a portion thereof constitutes a mechanism that performs one or more steps of learning various traffic patterns and implementing network functions to improve the performance of a communication network.

[0050] In some embodiments, the processor-based system 300 includes a communication mechanism such as a bus 301 for transferring information and / or instructions between components of the processor-based system 300. The processor 303 is connected to the bus 301, obtains instructions to execute, and processes information stored, for example, in the memory 305. In some embodiments, the processor 303 is also accompanied by one or more dedicated components for performing specific processing functions and tasks, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs) or one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). A DSP is typically configured to process real-world signals (e.g., sound) in real time, independently of the processor 303. Similarly, an ASIC can be configured to perform special functions that are not easily executable by more general-purpose processors. Other special components for assisting in the execution of the functions described in this disclosure optionally include one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more controllers, or one or more other special-purpose computer chips.

[0051] In one or more embodiments, the processor(s) 303 performs a series of operations on information specified by a set of instructions stored in the memory 305 related to learning various traffic patterns and implementing network functions to improve the performance of the communication network. By executing the instructions, the processor performs the specified function.

[0052] Processor 303 and its associated components are connected to memory 305 via bus 301. Memory 305 includes one or more of dynamic memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk, writable optical disk, etc.) and static memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), CD-ROM (compact disc read-only memory), etc.) that store executable instructions. When executed, the executable instructions perform the processes described in this disclosure, i.e., the processes of learning various traffic patterns to improve the performance of a communication network and implementing network functions. Memory 305 also stores data related to or generated by the execution of each process.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, memory 305, such as RAM or any other dynamic storage device, stores information including processor instructions for learning various traffic patterns to improve the performance of a communication network and implementing network functions. In dynamic memory, the stored information can be changed. In RAM, units of information stored at locations called memory addresses can be stored or retrieved independently of the information at adjacent addresses. Memory 305 is also used for the processor 303 to store temporary values during the execution of processor instructions. In various embodiments, memory 305 is a ROM or any other static storage device that stores static information that cannot be changed by processor 303 and is connected to bus 301. Some memories are composed of volatile storage devices, and the information stored therein is lost when the power is turned off. In some embodiments, memory 305 is a non-volatile (persistent) storage device, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, or flash card, that stores information including instructions that persists even when the power to system 300 is turned off or lost in some other way.

[0054] As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium that participates in providing information to a processor 303 that includes instructions for execution. Such media may take many forms, including but not limited to computer-readable storage media (e.g., non-volatile media, volatile media). Non-volatile media include, for example, optical disks and magnetic disks. Volatile media include, for example, dynamic memory. Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tape, other magnetic media, CD-ROM, CDRW (compact disc-rewritable), DVD (digital versatile disc), other optical media, punch cards, paper tape, optical mark sheets, other physical media having patterns of holes or other optically recognizable descriptive forms, RAM, programmable ROM (programmable ROM: PROM), electrically programmable ROM (electrically programmable ROM: EPROM), flash EPROM (FLASH-EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (electrically erasable programmable ROM: EEPROM), flash memory, other memory chips or cartridges, or other media readable by a computer. In the present disclosure, the term "computer-readable storage medium" refers to a computer-readable medium.

[0055] One aspect of this specification aims at a method that includes processing first data received from a network node to determine that a mobile device is actively accessing a communication network and to identify a first traffic pattern related to the communication network. The method also includes retrieving from a database a first network function corresponding to the identified first traffic pattern. The method further includes sending, to the network device, a first instruction to operate the first network function based on the identified first traffic pattern. The method further includes determining that the communication network is no longer accessed by the mobile device and processing second data received from the network node by a processor to identify a second traffic pattern. The method also includes retrieving from the database a second network function corresponding to the identified second traffic pattern. The method further includes sending, to the network device, a second instruction to stop the operation of the first network function and to operate the second network function based on the identified second traffic pattern.

[0056] In another aspect, the method includes processing, by a processor, first data received from a network node to identify a first traffic pattern related to a communication network, the first traffic pattern being an instance where each of one or more mobile devices is either actively accessing the communication network or requesting access to the communication network. The method also includes sending, to a network device, a first instruction to activate a first network function based on the identified first traffic pattern. The method further includes storing, in a database, a network support package that includes criteria defining an exact match of the first traffic pattern, a cross-reference to the first network function, and at least one rule including a tolerance value or range for which the first traffic pattern is identified as other than an exact match. The method further includes processing, by a processor, second data received from a network node to identify a second traffic pattern related to the communication network, the second traffic pattern being an instance where one or more of the time, number, and location of one or more devices, each of which is either actively accessing the communication network or requesting access to the communication network, is different from the first traffic pattern and cannot be determined to be the first traffic pattern based on the criteria defining the exact match of the first traffic pattern and the at least one rule. The method also includes sending, to the network device, a second instruction to deactivate the first network function based on the identified second traffic pattern. The method further includes processing, by a processor, third data received from a network node to identify the first traffic pattern based on the at least one rule. The method further includes sending, to the network device, a third instruction to activate the first network function based on the first traffic pattern identified based on the third data.

[0057] In another aspect, the apparatus comprises a processor and a memory storing instructions. When executed by the processor, these instructions cause the apparatus to process first data received from a network node to determine that the mobile device is actively accessing a communication network and to identify a first traffic pattern related to the communication network. The apparatus is also caused to retrieve from a database a first network function corresponding to the identified first traffic pattern. Further, based on the identified first traffic pattern, the apparatus is caused to send a first instruction to the network device to activate the first network function. Additionally, to determine that the communication network is no longer being accessed by the mobile device and to identify a second traffic pattern, the apparatus is caused to process second data received from the network node. The apparatus is also caused to retrieve from the database a second network function corresponding to the identified second traffic pattern. Further, based on the identified second traffic pattern, the apparatus is caused to send a second instruction to the network device to deactivate the first network function and activate the second network function.

[0058] As described above, the features of several embodiments have been outlined so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should understand that they can readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures that achieve at least one of the same purposes and the same advantages as the embodiments introduced in the present disclosure. Further, those skilled in the art should understand that such equivalent configurations do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and modifications may be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope thereof.

Claims

1. Processing, by a processor, first data received from a network node to determine that a mobile device is actively accessing a communication network and to identify a first traffic pattern associated with the communication network; Retrieving, from a database, a first network function corresponding to the identified first traffic pattern; Sending, to the network device, a first instruction to activate the first network function based on the identified first traffic pattern; Processing, by the processor, second data received from the network node to determine that the communication network is no longer being accessed by the mobile device and to identify a second traffic pattern; Retrieving, from the database, a second network function corresponding to the identified second traffic pattern; Sending, to the network device, a second instruction to stop the operation of the first network function and to activate the second network function based on the identified second traffic pattern; comprising the first data includes device capability information corresponding to the mobile device that actively accesses the communication network, and sending the first instruction to the network device to activate the first network function is further based on a determination that the first data indicates that the mobile device has the ability to utilize the first network function, a method.

2. Processing the first data to identify the first traffic pattern associated with the communication network includes determining whether the first data indicates information within a predetermined tolerance range for the first traffic pattern; Based on the determination that the first data indicates information within the predetermined allowable range, determining that the first traffic pattern has occurred; including; The method according to claim 1.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first network function is an antenna port of a multi-input multi-output layer.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein the second network function is an antenna port of a single layer.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the second network function is a default network function.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the first data and the second data are communicated from the network node to the processor in real time.

7. further comprising determining a time during which the mobile device is actively accessing the communication network, wherein transmitting the first instruction to the network device to activate the first network function is further based on the determination that the time during which the mobile device is actively accessing the communication network is within a time interval defined by at least one rule associated with the first network function stored in the database. The method according to claim 1.

8. The mobile device is a first mobile device among a plurality of mobile devices actively accessing the communication network, wherein the at least one rule further defines a threshold corresponding to the utilization amount of physical resource blocks and the number of the plurality of mobile devices actively accessing the communication network. Causing the first instruction to be sent to the network device to activate the first network function is further based on a determination that the first data indicates that the usage amount of the physical resource block and the number of the plurality of mobile devices actively accessing the communication network exceed the threshold. The method according to claim 7.

9. The mobile device is a first mobile device among the plurality of mobile devices that actively access the communication network. The at least one rule further defines a threshold corresponding to the number of the plurality of mobile devices that actively access the communication network within the time interval. Causing the first instruction to be sent to the network device to activate the first network function is further based on a determination that the first data indicates that the number of the plurality of mobile devices that actively access the communication network within the time interval exceeds the threshold. The method according to claim 7.

10. The mobile device is a first mobile device among the plurality of mobile devices. The at least one rule further defines a threshold corresponding to the number of the plurality of mobile devices that attempt to access the communication network within a preset time interval defined by the at least one rule. Causing the first instruction to be sent to the network device to activate the first network function is further based on a determination that the first data indicates that the number of the plurality of mobile devices that attempt to access the communication network exceeds the threshold within the time interval. The method according to claim 7.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the first network function is control plane overload control for restricting the number of communication network connection requests within the time interval.

12. The method according to claim 1, wherein stopping the operation of the first network function and operating the second network function is a power saving process related to the communication network.

13. Processing, by a processor, first data received from a network node to identify a first traffic pattern related to a communication network, the first traffic pattern being an instance in which one or more mobile devices are actively accessing the communication network or requesting access to the communication network. Transmitting, based on the identified first traffic pattern, a first instruction to a network device to operate a first network function. Storing, in a database, a network assistance package including at least one rule defining a criterion for an exact match of the first traffic pattern, a cross-reference to the first network function, and an allowable value or range for which the first traffic pattern is identified as other than an exact match. Processing, by the processor, second data received from the network node to identify a second traffic pattern related to the communication network, the second traffic pattern being an instance in which one or more of the time, number, or location of one or more of the mobile devices actively accessing the communication network or requesting access to the communication network is different from the first traffic pattern, and the second traffic pattern cannot be determined to be the first traffic pattern based on the criterion defining the exact match of the first traffic pattern and the at least one rule. Transmitting, based on the identified second traffic pattern, a second instruction to the network device to stop the operation of the first network function. Based on the at least one rule, processing, by the processor, third data received from the network node to identify the first traffic pattern; Based on the first traffic pattern identified based on the third data, causing a third instruction to be sent to the network device to activate the first network function; A method comprising. **Claim 14** The network support package is a first network support package among a plurality of network support packages stored in the database; Each network support package of the plurality of network support packages has a criterion defining a corresponding traffic pattern, a cross-reference to different network functions, and a corresponding rule including a tolerance value or tolerance range for the corresponding traffic pattern to be identified other than an exact match; Based on a determination that the third data is closer to the first traffic pattern than traffic patterns corresponding to other network support packages stored in the database, the third instruction is sent to the network device; The determination that the third data is closer to the first traffic pattern than the traffic patterns corresponding to other network support packages is based on the tolerance value or tolerance range indicated by the corresponding rule of each network support package; The method according to claim 13. **Claim 15** A processor; A memory storing instructions; An apparatus comprising: When the instructions are executed by the processor, processing first data received from a network node to determine that a mobile device is actively accessing a communication network and to identify a first traffic pattern related to the communication network; Searching for a first network function corresponding to the specified first traffic pattern from a database; Based on the specified first traffic pattern, sending a first instruction to the network device to operate the first network function; Processing second data received from the network node to determine that the communication network has stopped being accessed by the mobile device and to identify a second traffic pattern; Searching for a second network function corresponding to the specified second traffic pattern from the database; Based on the specified second traffic pattern, sending a second instruction to the network device to stop the operation of the first network function and to operate the second network function; Causing the device to execute; The first data includes device capability information corresponding to the mobile device that actively accesses the communication network; Sending the first instruction to the network device to operate the first network function is further based on the determination that the first data indicates that the mobile device has the ability to use the first network function; Device.

16. Processing the first data to identify the first traffic pattern related to the communication network includes: Determining whether the first data indicates information within a predetermined tolerance range for the first traffic pattern; Based on the determination that the first data indicates information within the predetermined tolerance range, determining that the first traffic pattern has occurred; Including The device according to claim 15.

17. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the first network function is an antenna port of a multi-input multi-output layer.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the second network function is an antenna port of a single layer.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the second network function is a default network function.

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