System and method for visualizing data in a cellular network

Abstract

A system and method for acquiring data from a cellular network are disclosed. In some embodiments, a visual query option is presented in a graphical user interface (GUI), where the visual query option defines a query. A query option selection of the visual query option is received. A query template is generated according to the query option selection. An audit of parameters is performed in association with network elements of the cellular network according to the query template. A report of the audit is transmitted to a user device. A visual representation of the report is presented in the GUI.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] To retrieve data from network elements in a cellular network, a user learns the routing and setup of the cellular network to route the appropriate queries and retrieve the appropriate information. The user manually inputs routing information to find the information. The user also uses learned knowledge about the cellular network to perform tasks in the cellular network once the data is retrieved. The user operates the system by manually inputting instructions to have the system perform these tasks.

[0002] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, according to standard industry practice, various features have not been drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0003] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a network system, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a call diagram for a method for generating, manipulating, and maintaining query templates, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a panel of a GUI, according to some embodiments. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a panel of a GUI, according to some embodiments. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a panel of a GUI, according to some embodiments. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram of a panel of a GUI, according to some embodiments. [Figure 7] 1 is a visual representation of a query template, according to some embodiments. [Figure 8] 1 is a table containing different entries for different query templates, according to some embodiments. [Figure 9] 1 is a visual representation of a report of an audit, according to some embodiments. [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart of a method for visualizing data in a cellular network, according to some embodiments. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart for reusing a query template to obtain a second report of an audit, according to some embodiments. [Figure 12] 1 is a flowchart of a method for updating a query template, according to some embodiments. [Figure 13] 1 is a flowchart of a method for generating a query template, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. To simplify the disclosure, specific examples of components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, etc. are described below. Of course, these are merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Other components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, etc. are contemplated. For example, the formation of a first feature on or above a second feature in the following description may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact with each other, and may also include embodiments in which an additional feature may be formed between the first and second features such that the first and second features are not in direct contact with each other. Additionally, the present disclosure may repeat reference numbers and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for the purposes of brevity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations described.

[0005] (Optionally, where applicable) Additionally, spatially relative terms such as beneath, below, lower, above, upper, etc. may be used herein for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature, as shown in the figures, to one or more other elements or features. Spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpreted accordingly.

[0006] Systems and methods for visualizing data on cellular networks are disclosed. These systems are configured to search for values ​​of parameters of network elements on a cellular network in an automated manner. A query template is created using input received via a graphical user interface (GUI). In some embodiments, the query template is generated by a query builder configured to generate queries based on stored network element data from the cellular network. A query is performed to retrieve data from the cellular network so that an audit is performed. A report of the audit is then sent to a user device and presented on the GUI. In some embodiments, the query template is reused so that more audits are performed based on the query template. This query, according to some embodiments, is performed against a database with historical parameter values ​​as a periodic query or against a live network. In some embodiments, a user does not need to have knowledge of complex output files or configuration files. Instead, a user creates a query template based on a set of provided inputs from the GUI, and the user retrieves network element data.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a network system 100 according to some embodiments.

[0008] The network system 100 includes a cellular network monitoring device 102, at least one database 104, and a cellular network 106. The cellular network monitoring device 102 and the cellular network 106 are connected to each other through an Internet Protocol (IP) network 108. In some embodiments, the IP network 108 includes a wide area network (WAN) (i.e., the Internet), a local area network (LAN), a wide area local area network (WLAN), etc. In some embodiments, the cellular network 106 includes a wireless WAN (WWAN).

[0009] The cellular network 106 includes a Radio Access Network (RAN) 160. The RAN 160 is the wireless element of the cellular network 106. The RAN 160 includes NEs 162, such as base stations, which include one or more radio transceivers. A base station covers a land area called a cell. User equipment, such as a mobile phone, smartphone, or laptop, connects to each of the base stations that cover the cell. The RAN 160 connects to the Core 170 via a backhaul link.

[0010] The Core 170 is the central part of the entire cellular network 106. The Core 170 allows mobile subscribers to access services (e.g., international calling, text messaging, local cellular calling). In some embodiments, the Core 170 is responsible for important functions such as maintaining subscriber profile information, subscriber location, service authentication, and switching functions required for voice and data sessions. The Core 170 includes the NE 172. In some embodiments, the NE 172 includes a Mobility Management Entity (MME), a Serving Gateway 166, a Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) Gateway, a Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BM-SC), and a Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway. In some embodiments, the MME is in communication with a Home Subscriber Server (HSS). The MME is a control node that handles signaling between user equipment and the Core 170. Generally, the MME provides bearer and connection management. In some embodiments, Internet Protocol (IP) packets are forwarded through the Serving Gateway 166, which is itself connected to the IP network 108.

[0011] Transport 180 refers to the transport network connecting Core 170 and RAN 160 of cellular network 106. Transport 180 includes NEs 182 such as backhaul links, connectors, relays, voice over IP devices, etc. In some embodiments, Transport 180 includes fronthaul connecting macro cells to small cells, radio units, digital units, etc. In some embodiments, RAN 160, Core 170, and Transport 180 are referred to as different domains of cellular network 106.

[0012] The cellular network monitoring device 102 (and in some embodiments the server 102) is a computing device that includes at least one processor 126 and a non-transitory computer-readable medium 128. The non-transitory computer-readable medium 128 stores computer-executable instructions 124. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable medium 128 includes random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, other magnetic storage devices, combinations of the aforementioned types of computer-readable media, or any other medium that can be used to store computer-executable code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computing device. When the processor 126 executes the computer-executable instructions 124, the processor 126 executes the cellular network monitoring software 127.

[0013] The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to visualize network element data 110 in the cellular network 106. The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to capture values ​​of parameters from the cellular network 106 and store the parameters as network element data 110 in a non-transitory computer-readable medium 116 in the database 104. The parameters are captured from NEs 162, 172, 182 in different domains of the cellular network 106. The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to generate a graphical user interface (GUI) 198 that enables a user on a user device 190 to visualize the network element data 110. Thus, rather than forcing a user to search through the cellular network 106 based on personal knowledge of the cellular network 106, which can be a time-consuming task, the cellular network monitoring software 127 provides the ability to easily monitor parameters from NEs 162, 172, 182 in different domains of the cellular network 106.

[0014] The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to present visual query options for defining a query using a GUI 198. The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to receive a query option selection of the visual query option and generate a query template 129 according to the query option selection. An audit of parameters associated with the NEs 162, 172, 182 of the cellular network 106 is performed according to the query template 129. In some embodiments, the cellular network monitoring software 127 includes a query builder 152 configured to generate the query template 129 from the query option selection. The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to generate a query 150 based on the query template 129. The query builder 152 is configured to create the query template 129, including scheduling implementation of the query 150 as an instance of the query template 129. Furthermore, a user 192 enters values ​​for parameters and an identifier associated with the query template 129 is selected and entered via the GUI 198 presented on the user device 190 to generate the query 150 from the query template 129. The user's selections and inputs schedule the query 150. In some embodiments, an output file containing the results of the query 150 is generated and transmitted to the user device 190. In this manner, the cellular network monitoring software 127 performs an audit on parameters associated with the NEs 162, 172, 182 of the cellular network 106 according to the query template 129.

[0015] Query template 129 is saved so that additional queries can be performed later based on query template 129. In some embodiments, query template 129 includes schedule data that defines a schedule for executing query 150 defined by query template 129 according to a schedule. For example, in some embodiments, query 150 is executed once a week, once a month, or once a year according to query template 129. Cellular network monitoring software 127 is also configured to allow query template 129 to be modified via GUI 198. In this manner, the modified query template 129 is used to generate query 150.

[0016] In some embodiments, the visual query options of the GUI 198 include selections for specifying different network characteristics, such as domain, vendor, service provider, and technology, geographic region, device type, etc. In some embodiments, the cellular network monitoring software 127 sends one or more queries 150 for parameters according to the query template 129 to perform the audit. In some embodiments, the queries 150 are sent by the cellular network monitoring software 127 to the database 104 to obtain historical values ​​of the parameters from the network element data 110. In some embodiments, the queries 150 are sent by the cellular network monitoring software 127 directly to specific NEs 162, 172, 182 to obtain values ​​of the parameters in real time. In some embodiments, the query template 129 defines the NEs 162, 172, 182 in the cellular network 106 that will receive the parameters. The queries 150 for the parameters are sent such that the parameters are captured from the NEs 162, 172, 182 defined in the query template 129. In some embodiments, the parameters are utilized to troubleshoot one or more of the NEs 162, 172, 182 based on the results of the query 150. For example, the configuration values ​​obtained as a result of the query 150 are used to implement other software tools in which the user 192 changes parameter values ​​associated with one or more of the NEs 162, 172, 182 to resolve a problem within the network 106.

[0017] In some embodiments, the query template 129 includes the network location of the parameter to be captured and / or obtained, the time slot for capturing and / or obtaining the parameter, the NE 162, 172, 182 associated with the parameter, routing data for locating the parameter, etc. In some embodiments, the value of the parameter is captured in real time directly from the NE 162, 172, 182. Thus, in situations where the capture is performed in real time, the query template 129 includes routing data for capturing the value of the parameter directly from the NE 162, 172, 182.

[0018] The cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to generate and transmit a report 112 of the audit to the user device 190. The report 112 includes values ​​of the parameters obtained according to the query template 129. Once the report 112 is obtained by the user device, the cellular network monitoring software 127 is configured to present a visual representation of the report using a GUI 198. In some embodiments, the GUI presents a panel having a visual representation of the parameters along with details about the NEs 162, 172, 182 for which the values ​​of the parameters were captured. In some embodiments, the audit is performed periodically in real time or scheduled for a future time slot. In some embodiments, several other operations are provided via the GUI 198, including options related to changing parameter values ​​for specific NEs 162, 172, 182, configuration change history for NEs 162, 172, 182, configuration audit information for NEs 162, 172, 182, layered views, and rollback to base configuration.

[0019] User device 190 is configured to communicate with cellular network monitoring software 127 over IP network 108. User device 190 includes one or more processors 196 and computer-executable instructions 194 stored on non-transitory computer-readable medium 195. In some embodiments, non-transitory computer-readable medium 195 includes random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, other magnetic storage devices, combinations of the aforementioned types of computer-readable media, or any other medium that can be used to store computer-executable code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computing device. Examples of user device 190 include mobile phones, smartphones, desktops, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, smart watches, personal digital assistants (PDAs), satellite radios, global positioning systems, multimedia devices, video devices, game consoles, tablets, smart devices, and wearable communication devices. When the computer-executable instructions are executed by the processor 196 , the processor 196 is configured to generate and implement the functionality of the GUI 198 .

[0020] FIG. 2 is a call diagram 200 for a method for generating, manipulating, and maintaining query templates, according to some embodiments.

[0021] An example of a query template generated from call diagram 200 is query template 129 shown in Figure 1. This process is performed via GUI 202, query builder 204, and database 206. GUI 202 is an example of GUI 198 in Figure 1. Query builder 204 is an example of query builder 152 in Figure 1. Database 206 is an example of database 104 in Figure 1.

[0022] Call diagram 200 includes blocks 208-222. In block 208, a query option selection is received from user 209 via GUI 198, which generates a query creation request with the query option selection. In block 210, the query creation request is sent from GUI 198 to query builder 204. In block 211, query builder 204 sends a request to database 206 for network element data related to the query creation request. In some embodiments, query builder 204 requests values ​​for parameters configured in network 106, which generates a query based on several inputs from user 209 from GUI 202. In some embodiments, user 209 selects a domain, vendor, technology type, and geographic region, and then user 209 selects parameters whose values ​​user 209 wants to check in network 106. User 209, according to some embodiments, applies conditions to several parameters included in query 150.

[0023] At block 212, the database 206 sends the requested network request data to the query builder 204. At block 214, the query builder is configured to create a query template based on the network element data received from the database and artificial intelligence (AI). In some embodiments, the query template fetches the network element data from dump files maintained in the database. In some embodiments, the network element data is fetched daily from the network. In some embodiments, a GUI interface is provided to the user from a user device where the user logs in and creates a query template to fetch the network element data from the network and schedules queries based on the query template. In some embodiments, the query is a live query search.

[0024] At block 215, the query template is sent to the GUI 202. At block 216, user input is entered into the GUI 202 by the user 209 along with changes to the query template. At block 217, the GUI 202 sends a request to the query builder to edit, delete, enable, or disable the query template. At block 218, the query builder 204 sends a query to the database 206 requesting that the actions defined by the query be performed. At block 220, the user 209 sends a request for the status of the query via the GUI 202. At block 222, the query builder 204 sends status data to the GUI 202. The status data indicates whether the query failed, completed, pending, or successful.

[0025] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a panel 300 of a GUI 301, according to some embodiments.

[0026] The panel includes visual query options related to the definition of a query type. The visual query options include visual query options named "Query Name," "Query Type," "Domain," "Vendor," "Query Category," "Technology," "Site Type," "Software Version," and "Bandwidth." The visual query option named "Query Name" is configured to receive a query name selection from a user. The visual query option named "Query Type" is configured to receive a query type selection of either a database for historical parameter values ​​or live for parameter values ​​retrieved in real time from the cellular network 106. The visual query option named "Domain" is configured to receive a domain selection from a user of either RAN, Core, or Transport. The visual query option named "Vendor" is configured to receive a vendor selection for the NE from the user. The visual query option named "Query Category" is configured to receive a query category selection for the query from the user. The visual query option named "Technology" is configured to receive a technology selection from the user, such as 3G, 4G, LTE, or 5G. The visual query option named "Site Type" is configured to receive a site type selection from the user, such as Macro or RUID. The visual query option named "Software Version" is configured to receive a software version selection that identifies a software version implemented by the network element. The visual query option named "Bandwidth" is configured to receive a bandwidth selection that identifies a bandwidth range of a signal being transmitted by the network element.

[0027] Upon receiving one or more of the above query selections, query builder 152 is configured to generate query template 129 (see FIG. 1) according to the query selections. In some embodiments, query builder 152 (see FIG. 1) is configured to generate query template 129 according to FIG. 2. In some embodiments, query template 129 is then stored in non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 128 (see FIG. 1) of cellular network monitoring device 102 (see FIG. 1) or non-transitory computer-readable medium 116 (see FIG. 1) of database 104 (see FIG. 1).

[0028] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a panel 400 of GUI 301, according to some embodiments.

[0029] The panel includes visual query options related to the definition of the node type. The visual query options include visual query options named “Equipment Type,” “Geography Level,” “Geography,” and “Is NE Selection Required?” The visual query option named “Equipment Type” is configured to receive an equipment type selection, such as cell, RIU, RRH, VCU, or VDU. The visual query option named “Geography Level” is configured to receive a geography type selection, such as prefecture, city, or RF cluster. The visual query option named “Geography” is configured to receive a geographic area selection according to whether a prefecture, city, or RF cluster is selected. The visual query option named “Is NE Selection Required?” is configured to receive a yes or no selection. A search bar is added to allow the user to search for any associated available UHNs and the selected UHN. Upon receiving one or more of the above query selections, the query builder 152 is configured to generate a query template 129 (see FIG. 1 ) according to the query selection. In some embodiments, the query builder 152 (see FIG. 1 ) is configured to generate the query template 129 according to FIG. 2 . In some embodiments, the query template 129 is then stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 128 (see FIG. 1) of the cellular network monitoring device 102 (see FIG. 1) or in a non-transitory computer-readable medium 116 (see FIG. 1) of the database 104 (see FIG. 1).

[0030] FIG. 5 is a diagram of a panel 500 of GUI 301, according to some embodiments.

[0031] The panel 500 includes visual query options related to parameters to be obtained from the cellular network 106 (see FIG. 1). The input bar titled "Search Xmipid" is configured to receive a network profile selection for the NE from the user. The bar titled "Profile Name" displays the profile name for the input bar selection. The search bar 402 is configured to receive user input defining a portion of the cellular network 106 (see FIG. 1) for receiving values ​​for the parameters.

[0032] Sub-panel 502 within panel 500 includes visual parameter options for defining parameter conditions for a query. For example, the visual parameter options within the sub-panel may be configured to receive parameter condition selections such as a specific value, a range of values, a value limit, a value relationship, etc.

[0033] Upon receiving one or more of the above query selections, query builder 152 is configured to generate query template 129 (see FIG. 1) according to the query selections. In some embodiments, query builder 152 (see FIG. 1) is configured to generate query template 129 according to FIG. 2. In some embodiments, query template 129 is then stored in non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 128 (see FIG. 1) of cellular network monitoring device 102 (see FIG. 1) or non-transitory computer-readable medium 116 (see FIG. 1) of database 104 (see FIG. 1).

[0034] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a panel 600 of GUI 301, according to some embodiments.

[0035] Panel 600 includes a visual query option, which is a visual scheduling option for performing an audit. For example, an audit, in some embodiments, includes two or more queries. The visual scheduling option is used to generate scheduling data for a query template. The scheduling data defines a query schedule for executing different queries of parameters associated with the NE.

[0036] Panel 600 includes visual scheduling options labeled "Daily," "Weekly," and "Monthly" to allow the user to select daily, weekly, or monthly reports. When monthly is selected, as in FIG. 6, an input bar is configured to receive the days of the month the query will occur and to select the number of months between queries (i.e., 1-12). Another input bar is configured to receive the days of the week and the number of weeks between queries, along with the number of months between queries. Another input bar allows the user to select a start date for the query and an end date for the query, including no end date and that the query will continue until further selection, which ends the query.

[0037] Upon receiving the scheduling selection, the query builder 152 (see FIG. 1) is configured to generate scheduling data defining a query schedule according to the scheduling selection. To perform the audit, the query builder 152 is configured to execute queries of different parameters associated with the NEs 162, 172, 182 (see FIG. 1) of the cellular network 106 according to the query template 129 and according to the query schedule defined by the scheduling data. In some embodiments, a single report is generated using the results of all queries. In some embodiments, the single report is cumulative and is updated for each query. The single report is transmitted to the user device 190 (see FIG. 1) after each update or when all queries have been executed. In some embodiments, each report includes sub-reports for each of the queries, and each of the sub-reports is transmitted to the user device 190 upon completion of each query.

[0038] FIG. 7 is a visual representation of a query template 700, according to some embodiments.

[0039] The query template is an example of query template 129 shown in FIG. 1, according to some embodiments.

[0040] The data field named "Query Name" has a name for the query template, which in this example is "Example Query." The data field named "Query Type" has a query value of "Database," indicating that the value of the parameter is a historical value to be retrieved from the database 104. The data field named "Domain" is configured to identify the domain, which in this example is RAN. The data field named "Vendor" is configured to identify the vendor, which in this example is Vendor 1. The data field named "Query Category" identifies the query category "New cat." The data field named "Technology" identifies the technology of the query template, which in this example is LTE. The data field named "Site Type" identifies the site type, which in this example is Macro. The data field named "Software Version" is configured to identify the software version, which in this example is R4_2.1. The data field named "Bandwidth" identifies the bandwidth, which in this example is 20 MHz. Data fields for parameters including a parameter type, which in this example is Service-Based HO, are also included. The data fields for parameters also include an operator field, a value field, and a condition field.

[0041] FIG. 8 is a table 800 that identifies different entries 802, 804, 806 for different query templates, according to some embodiments.

[0042] Each of the entries 802, 804, 806 in table 800 identifies a different query template being implemented by the cellular network monitoring software 127. Each of the entries 802, 804, 806 includes a status identifier, a name, a query type (either live or database), a generation identifier, a domain identifier, a vendor identifier, an identifier identifying the creator, a creation date, and an identifier identifying the person who last modified the query template. Additionally, there is a visual selection within entry 802 that allows a user to implement changes to the query template identified by entry 802, and a reimplementation visual option to reuse the query template to perform another audit.

[0043] The status identifier identifies the status of the query for the query template. The status identifier is pending, completed, or failed, depending on the current state of the query. In some embodiments, a user selects one of entries 802, 804, or 806 to modify the query template or to view a report of the audit resulting from the query template. Some reports include the results of a single query performed using the query template. Other reports include the results of various queries performed using the query template. In some embodiments, a set of sub-reports is included in the report, with each sub-report including the results of a different query.

[0044] FIG. 9 is a visual representation of an audit report 900, according to some embodiments.

[0045] The panel includes a visual representation of the report resulting from the audit. The report is an example of report 112 of FIG. 1. Report 900 includes parameters for an NE named UHN10SK100400163 as a result of query template 129 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 9, the visual representation in the panel includes fields named "NE Name," "eNodeB ID," "Parameter Type," "Equipment Type," "Category," "Parameter," "X-Path," and "Current Value." The field named "NE Name" is the name of the NE 162 from which the parameters are captured. The field named "eNodeB ID" identifies the name of the cell from which the parameters are captured. The field named "Parameter Type" indicates the type of the parameter (including whether the parameter is a golden parameter). "Equipment Type" identifies the equipment type of the NE 162 from which the parameters were captured. The field named "Category" identifies the category of the captured parameter. The field named "Parameter" indicates the name of the captured parameter. The field named "X-Path" identifies the routing data for capturing the parameter. The field named "Current Value" indicates the current value of the parameter.

[0046] In some embodiments, query 150 does not request live data, but rather requests data 110 from a past time slot. For example, the network element data 110 of FIG. 1 stores historical values ​​of a subset of parameters associated with one or more NEs 162, 172, 182 in the cellular network 106. Thus, query 150 is sent to database 104 for previously captured values ​​in network element data 110 of parameters for an NE named UHN10SK100400163. Query 150 is sent to database 104 to obtain parameter values ​​captured in past time slots. In some embodiments, query 150 is live, and therefore requests data 110 captured in real time from one or more NEs 162, 172, 182. A visual representation of report 900 is shown in GUI 301.

[0047] FIG. 10 is a flowchart 1000 of a method for visualizing data in a cellular network, according to some embodiments.

[0048] In some embodiments, the flowchart 1000 is implemented by cellular network monitoring software 127 executed by the cellular network monitoring device 102. The flowchart 1000 includes blocks 1002 through 1014. The flow begins at block 1002.

[0049] In block 1002, visual query options are presented in the GUI that can be used to define a query. Examples of visual query options are shown in panel 300 of Figure 3, panel 400 of Figure 4, panel 500 of Figure 5, and panel 600 of Figure 6. Flow then proceeds to block 1004.

[0050] At block 1004, a query option selection is received from the GUI. Examples of query option selections are query option selections of the visual query options shown in panel 300 of Figure 3, panel 400 of Figure 4, panel 500 of Figure 5, and panel 600 of Figure 6. Flow then proceeds to block 1006.

[0051] At block 1006, a query template is generated according to the received query option selections. A visual representation of a query template 700 is shown in Figure 7. Flow then proceeds to block 1008.

[0052] In block 1008, parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network are audited according to the query template. Examples of network elements are NEs 162, 172, and 182, and an example of a cellular network is cellular network 106 of Figure 1. The parameters are found in network element data 110 of Figure 1 and are generated by NEs 162, 172, and 182. Examples of the parameters are shown in Figure 9. Flow then proceeds to block 1010.

[0053] At block 1010, a list identifying the query templates and the audit status is presented in the GUI. An example of a list is list 800 shown in Figure 8. List 800 includes pending and completed status for different query templates. Flow then proceeds to block 1012.

[0054] At block 1012, a report of the audit is sent to the user device. Examples of reports are report 112 in Figure 1 and report 900 shown in Figure 9. Flow then proceeds to block 1014.

[0055] A visual representation of the report is presented using the GUI at block 1014. Figure 9 shows a visual representation of a report 900 in the GUI 301.

[0056] FIG. 11 is a flowchart 1100 for reusing a query template to obtain a second report of an audit, according to some embodiments.

[0057] Flowchart 1100 includes blocks 1102 through 1110. In some embodiments, flowchart 1100 is performed after flowchart 1000 of Figure 10. The flow begins at block 1102.

[0058] At block 1102, the query template is stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The query template 129 is stored in the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 128 of Figure 1. Flow then proceeds to block 1104.

[0059] At block 1104, a redo visual option is presented in the GUI. The redo option is presented in entry 802 of GUI 301. Flow then proceeds to block 1106.

[0060] At block 1106, a replay input for the replay visual option is received from the GUI. Flow then proceeds to block 1108.

[0061] In block 1108, in response to receiving the retry input, a query template is retrieved from the non-transitory computer-readable medium. Flow then proceeds to block 1110.

[0062] At block 1110, a second audit of parameters is performed in association with network elements of the cellular network according to the query template.

[0063] FIG. 12 is a flowchart 1200 of a method for updating a query template, according to some embodiments.

[0064] The flowchart 1200 includes blocks 1202 through 1206. The flow begins at block 1202.

[0065] A second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query is received at block 1202. In some embodiments, block 1202 occurs before block 1104 of Figure 11. Flow then proceeds to block 1204.

[0066] At block 1204, the query template is modified according to the second query option selection, after which flow proceeds to block 1206.

[0067] In block 1206, a second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network is performed according to the modified query template. In some embodiments, block 1206 is an example of block 1110 of FIG.

[0068] FIG. 13 is a flowchart 1300 of a method for generating a query template, according to some embodiments.

[0069] Flowchart 1300 includes blocks 1302-1306. In block 1302, a query creation request is sent along with query option selections to a query builder application. Examples of query builder applications are query builder 152 and query builder 204 in Figure 1. An example of block 1302 is block 210 in Figure 2. Flow then proceeds to block 1304.

[0070] Network element data associated with the query option selection is obtained in block 1304. An example of network element data is network element data 110 of Figure 1. An example of block 1304 is block 212. Flow then proceeds to block 1306.

[0071] A query template is generated based on the network element data in block 1306. An example of block 1306 is block 214.

[0072] In some embodiments, a method for obtaining data from a cellular network includes presenting a visual query option in a graphical user interface (GUI), the visual query option defining a query, receiving a query option selection of the visual query option, generating a query template in accordance with the query option selection, performing an audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template, transmitting a report of the audit to a user device, and presenting a visual representation of the report in the GUI. In some embodiments, the visual query option includes a visual scheduling option for performing the audit, receiving a query option selection of the visual query option includes receiving a scheduling selection of the visual scheduling option, generating a query template in accordance with the query option selection includes generating scheduling data defining a query schedule in accordance with the scheduling selection, and performing the audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template includes executing different queries of parameters associated with the network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template and in accordance with the query schedule defined by the scheduling data. In some embodiments, storing the query template in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, presenting a retry visual option in the GUI, receiving a retry input for the retry visual option from the GUI, retrieving the query template from the non-transitory computer-readable medium in response to receiving the retry input, and performing a second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network according to the query template. In some embodiments, prior to presenting the retry visual option in the GUI, receiving a second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query, modifying the query template according to the second query option selection, and performing the second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network according to the modified query template.In some embodiments, generating a query template according to the query option selection includes sending a query creation request with the query option selection to a query builder application, obtaining network element data associated with the query option selection, and generating a query template based on the network element data. In some embodiments, the visual query option includes a visual geography option defining a geographic area for the query, receiving a query option selection of the visual query option includes receiving a geography selection of the visual geography option, and generating a query template according to the query option selection includes generating the query template such that the parameters are associated with network elements within the geographic area defined by the geography selection. In some embodiments, the visual query option includes a visual parameter option defining a parameter condition for the query, receiving a query option selection of the visual query option includes receiving a parameter condition selection of the visual parameter option, and generating a query template according to the query option selection includes generating the query template such that the parameters satisfy the parameter condition. In some embodiments, a list identifying the query templates and the status of the audit is presented in the GUI.

[0073] In some embodiments, a computing device for acquiring data from a cellular network includes at least one processor and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, wherein when the at least one processor executes the computer-executable instructions, the at least one processor is configured to: present visual query options in a graphical user interface (GUI), the visual query options defining a query; receive a query option selection of the visual query option; generate a query template in accordance with the query option selection; perform an audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template; send a report of the audit to a user device; and present a visual representation of the report in the GUI. In some embodiments, the visual query options include a visual scheduling option for performing the audit, wherein receiving a query option selection of the visual query option includes receiving a scheduling selection of the visual scheduling option, generating a query template in accordance with the query option selection includes generating scheduling data defining a query schedule in accordance with the scheduling selection, and performing the audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template includes executing different queries of parameters associated with the network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template and in accordance with the query schedule defined by the scheduling data. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to store the query template in a non-transitory computer-readable medium; present a retry visual option in the GUI; receive a retry input for the retry visual option from the GUI; retrieve the query template from the non-transitory computer-readable medium in response to receiving the retry input; and perform a second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template.In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to receive a second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query before presenting the re-execute visual option in the GUI and modify the query template according to the second query option selection, wherein performing the second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network is according to the modified query template. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is configured to generate the query template according to the query option selection by sending a query creation request with the query option selection to a query builder application, obtaining network element data associated with the query option selection, and generating the query template based on the network element data. In some embodiments, the visual query option includes a visual geography option that defines a geographic region for the query, receiving a query option selection of the visual query option includes receiving a geography selection of the visual geography option, and generating the query template according to the query option selection includes generating the query template such that the parameters are associated with network elements within the geographic region defined by the geography selection. In some embodiments, the visual query options include visual parameter options that define parameter conditions for the query, and receiving a query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a parameter condition selection of the visual parameter options, and generating the query template according to the query option selection includes generating the query template such that the parameters satisfy the parameter conditions. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to present, in the GUI, a list identifying the query templates and a status of the audit.

[0074] In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, wherein when at least one processor executes the computer-executable instructions, the at least one processor is configured to: present a visual query option in a graphical user interface (GUI), the visual query option defining a query; receive a query option selection of the visual query option; generate a query template in accordance with the query option selection; perform an audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template; send a report of the audit to a user device; and present a visual representation of the report in the GUI. In some embodiments, the visual query option includes a visual scheduling option for performing the audit, receiving a query option selection of the visual query option includes receiving a scheduling selection of the visual scheduling option, generating a query template in accordance with the query option selection includes generating scheduling data defining a query schedule in accordance with the scheduling selection, and performing the audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template includes executing different queries of parameters associated with the network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template and in accordance with the query schedule defined by the scheduling data. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to store the query template in a non-transitory computer-readable medium; present a retry visual option in the GUI; receive a retry input for the retry visual option from the GUI; retrieve the query template from the non-transitory computer-readable medium in response to receiving the retry input; and perform a second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network in accordance with the query template.In some embodiments, the at least one processor is further configured to receive a second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query and modify the query template according to the second query option selection prior to presenting the re-execution visual option in the GUI, and wherein performing the second audit of parameters associated with network elements of the cellular network is according to the modified query template. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is configured to generate the query template according to the query option selection by sending a query creation request with the query option selection to a query builder application, obtaining network element data associated with the query option selection, and generating the query template based on the network element data.

[0075] The foregoing outlines features of some embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use this disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures to carry out the same purposes and / or achieve the same advantages of the embodiments presented herein. Those skilled in the art should also appreciate that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0076] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, according to standard industry practice, various features have not been drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion.

Claims

1. A method for obtaining data from a cellular network, performed by a computing device, comprising: presenting visual query options in a graphical user interface (GUI), the visual query options usable to define a query; receiving a first query option selection from the GUI; generating a query template according to the received first query option selection; obtaining one or more first parameter values ​​associated with network elements of the cellular network according to the query template, and generating a first report including the one or more first parameter values; transmitting the first report to a user device; presenting a visual representation of the first report using the GUI; and receiving a second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query; modifying the query template according to the second query option selection; presenting a re-execution visual option in the GUI; and receiving a re-execution input for the re-execution visual option from the GUI; obtaining one or more second parameter values ​​associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the re-execution input and the modified query template, and generating a second report including the second parameter values; A method comprising:

2. the visual query option includes a visual scheduling option for obtaining the one or more first parameter values; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a scheduling selection of the visual scheduling options; generating the query template in accordance with the first query option selection includes generating scheduling data defining a query schedule in accordance with the scheduling selection; obtaining the one or more first parameter values ​​associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the query template comprises performing different queries of parameters associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the query template and according to the query schedule defined by the scheduling data; The method of claim 1.

3. storing the query template on a non-transitory computer-readable medium; retrieving the query template from the non-transitory computer-readable medium in response to receiving the retry input; and The method of claim 1 further comprising:

4. generating the query template according to the first query option selection, sending a query creation request with the first query option selection to a query builder application; obtaining network element data associated with the first query option selection; generating the query template based on the network element data; The method of claim 1 , comprising:

5. the visual query options include visual parameter options that define parameter conditions for the query; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a parameter condition selection of the visual parameter options; generating the query template according to the first query option selection includes generating the query template such that parameters satisfy the parameter condition. The method of claim 1.

6. presenting in the GUI a table identifying the query template and a status of obtaining the one or more first parameter values. The method of claim 1 further comprising:

7. 1. A computing device for obtaining data from a cellular network, comprising: at least one processor; a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions; Equipped with When the at least one processor executes the computer-executable instructions, the at least one processor: presenting visual query options in a graphical user interface (GUI), the visual query options usable to define a query; receiving a first query option selection from the GUI; generating a query template according to the received first query option selection; obtaining one or more first parameter values ​​associated with network elements of the cellular network according to the query template, and generating a first report including the one or more first parameter values; transmitting the first report to a user device; presenting a visual representation of the first report using the GUI; and receiving a second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query; modifying the query template according to the second query option selection; presenting a re-execution visual option in the GUI; and receiving a re-execution input for the re-execution visual option from the GUI; obtaining one or more second parameter values ​​associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the re-execution input and the modified query template, and generating a second report including the second parameter values; configured to: Computer device.

8. the visual query option includes a visual scheduling option for obtaining the one or more first parameter values; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a scheduling selection of the visual scheduling options; generating the query template in accordance with the first query option selection includes generating scheduling data defining a query schedule in accordance with the scheduling selection; obtaining the one or more first parameter values ​​associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the query template comprises performing different queries of parameters associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the query template and according to the query schedule defined by the scheduling data; The computing device of claim 7.

9. the at least one processor: storing the query template on a non-transitory computer-readable medium; retrieving the query template from the non-transitory computer-readable medium in response to receiving the retry input; and The computing device of claim 7 , further configured to:

10. the at least one processor: sending a query creation request with the first query option selection to a query builder application; obtaining network element data associated with the first query option selection; generating the query template based on the network element data; 8. The computing device of claim 7, configured to generate the query template according to the first query option selection by:

11. the visual query options include a visual geography option that defines a geographic region for the query; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a geographic selection of the visual geography options; generating the query template in accordance with the first query option selection includes generating the query template such that parameters are associated with the network elements that are within the geographic region defined by the geographic selection. The computing device of claim 7.

12. the visual query options include visual parameter options that define parameter conditions for the query; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a parameter condition selection of the visual parameter options; generating the query template according to the first query option selection includes generating the query template such that parameters satisfy the parameter condition. The computing device of claim 7.

13. the at least one processor: presenting in the GUI a table identifying the query template and a status of obtaining the one or more first parameter values; The computing device of claim 7 further configured to:

14. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, the computer-executable instructions, when executed by at least one processor, causing the at least one processor to: presenting visual query options in a graphical user interface (GUI), the visual query options usable to define a query; receiving a first query option selection from the GUI; generating a query template according to the received first query option selection; obtaining one or more first parameter values ​​associated with network elements of a cellular network according to the query template, and generating a first report including the one or more first parameter values; transmitting the first report to a user device; presenting a visual representation of the first report using the GUI; and receiving a second query option selection that redefines at least a portion of the query; modifying the query template according to the second query option selection; presenting a re-execution visual option in the GUI; and receiving a re-execution input for the re-execution visual option from the GUI; obtaining one or more second parameter values ​​associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the re-execution input and the modified query template, and generating a second report including the second parameter values; 1. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium configured to:

15. the visual query option includes a visual scheduling option for obtaining the one or more first parameter values; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a scheduling selection of the visual scheduling options; generating the query template in accordance with the first query option selection includes generating scheduling data defining a query schedule in accordance with the scheduling selection; obtaining the one or more first parameter values ​​associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the query template comprises performing different queries of parameters associated with the network elements of the cellular network according to the query template and according to the query schedule defined by the scheduling data; 15. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 14.

16. the at least one processor: storing the query template on a non-transitory computer-readable medium; retrieving the query template from the non-transitory computer-readable medium in response to receiving the retry input; and 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15, further configured to:

17. the at least one processor: sending a query creation request with the first query option selection to a query builder application; obtaining network element data associated with the first query option selection; generating the query template based on network element data; generating the query template according to the first query option selection by 16. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium of claim 15.

18. the visual query options include a visual geography option that defines a geographic region for the query; receiving the first query option selection of the visual query options includes receiving a geographic selection of the visual geography options; generating the query template in accordance with the first query option selection includes generating the query template such that parameters are associated with the network elements that are within the geographic region defined by the geographic selection. The method of claim 1.

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