Control device, communication system, and control method

Abstract

Provided is a control device comprising a determination unit that, on the basis of an analysis result obtained on the basis of a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result pertaining to a current or future prescribed situation in a mobile network, determines a first connection control device responsible for connection between a RAN and a core.

Description

Control device, communication system and control method

[0001] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-167524, filed on September 28, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] <Examples of Distributed Mobile Network Configurations> FIG. 5 is a diagram showing examples of distributed mobile network configurations. These configurations are described in Non-Patent Document 1. In the Local Offload option, a User Plane Function (UPF) for data communication is located at an edge site, and a Control-Plane (C-Plane) NF for processing control information is located at a central site. The UPF can either offload data traffic to a local Application Function (AF) or forward the data traffic to the central site. In either case, C-Plane signals are exchanged via a backhaul. This option is suitable for environments where edge nodes are unreliable or for use cases where end-to-end services are not affected by latency or capacity (e.g., aerial communications or live content acquisition using nomadic networks).

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

[0004] The Autonomous Edge option places all C-Plane NF functions on the edge network, providing connectivity to devices within a specific region. However, this model is limited to certain areas and does not provide continuous device mobility. To provide connectivity across edge networks, subscriber profile synchronization is required. This option is best suited for deployments requiring ultra-low latency or where backhaul availability and capacity are very limited and there is a high degree of trust in the edge infrastructure.

[0005] FIG. 5 also shows an AUSF (Authentication User Service Function), a UDM (Unified Data Management), a PCF (Policy Control Function), a 5G terminal UE (User Equipment), and a 5G base station gNB.

[0006] <AMF Selection Method from RAN> Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a registration procedure. A detailed description of this procedure will be omitted. Figure 6 shows an extracted portion of the AMF selection process. The example in Figure 6 shows an example of a procedure in a UE (User Equipment), a RAN (Radio Access Network), a new AMF (New AMF), and a previous AMF (Old AMF). The example in Figure 6 also shows a PCF, SMF, AUSF, and UDM.

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

[0008] In this priority order, if the RAN can reach the AMF corresponding to the 5G-S-TMSI (Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity) or GUAMI (Globally Unique AMF Identifier) ​​indicated by the UE, the AMF is selected. Also, in this priority order, if the RAN cannot reach the AMF corresponding to the 5G-S-TMSI or GUAMI, it selects an AMF based on the Requested NSSAI (Network Slice Selection Assistance Information). Also, in this priority order, if the RAN cannot select an AMF based on the Requested NSSAI, it selects the default AMF. Here, 5G-S-TMSI is a temporary mobile subscriber identity, GUAMI is an identifier used to uniquely identify an AMF, and NSSAI is an identifier representing information for assisting in network slice selection.

[0009] <RAN and AMF session> Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of NG SetUp between a CU (Central Unit) and an AMF. Detailed description thereof will be omitted. The example of Figure 7 shows an example of a procedure in a UE, a gNB, and two AMFs (referred to as AMF #1 and AMF #2 for convenience of explanation).

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

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

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

[0013] Here, the NWDAF mainly has the following roles (data collection, AI model training or relearning, data analysis). In the role of data collection, the NWDAF collects data from the NFs to input data for generating an AI model and generating an analysis. In the role of AI model training or relearning, the NWDAF trains or relearns the AI ​​model based on the collected data and updates the AI ​​model. In the role of data analysis, the NWDAF determines which analysis to perform based on the Analytics ID indicating the analysis content sent from the consumer NF, and performs that analysis.

[0014] Marius Corici, et al. “A Study of 5G Edge-Central Core Network Split Options,” Network 2021, 1(3), 354-368. https: / / www.mdpi.com / 2673-8732 / 1 / 3 / 203GPP® TS 23.502 “Procedures for the 5G System (5GS); Stage 2”. 3GPP® TS 38.413 “NG-RAN; NG Application Protocol (NGAP)”. 3GPP® TS 23.288 “Architecture enhancements for 5G System (5GS) to support network data analytics services”.

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

[0016] In (Problem 1), if an AMF supporting the Locally Administered Edge option or the Autonomous Edge option is selected as the AMF served by a UE with high mobility, the area managed by the AMF becomes narrower than the Local Offload option, resulting in frequent handovers (HO). This may increase the number or amount of signaling to be processed in the C-Plane.

[0017] In (Problem 2), because the computational resources of an edge site are generally limited compared to those of a central site, if the serving AMF on the edge site is prioritized to reduce latency in the C-Plane, the load on the NF located at the edge site is expected to increase. For example, if the Locally Administered Edge option or the Autonomous Edge option is selected when the NF is in a high load state, it could lead to degradation of C-Plane procedures due to processing delays, resulting in unintended results (slower results).

[0018] As described above, in the conventional technology, for example, if the mixed distributed CNs are not appropriately selected, it is considered possible that the quality of the C-Plane may be degraded.

[0019] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of these circumstances, and one example of the objective thereof is to provide a control device, a communication system, and a control method that can appropriately select a connection control device such as an AMF.

[0020] As one configuration example, the control device is provided with a decision unit that decides a first connection control device that is responsible for connecting a RAN (Radio Access Network) and a core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device that has the function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network.

[0021] As an example configuration, a communication system includes an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network, a first connection control device that is responsible for connecting a RAN (Radio Access Network) to a core, and a control device, wherein the control device is equipped with a decision unit that decides on the first connection control device based on the analysis results obtained based on the first analysis function of the analysis device.

[0022] As one configuration example, this is a control method in which a control device determines a first connection control device that is responsible for connecting a RAN (Radio Access Network) to a core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device that has the function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network.

[0023] According to the control device, communication system, and control method of the present disclosure, a connection control device such as an AMF, for example, can be appropriately selected.

[0024] 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a control device according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic example of a CN management function according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic example of an AI model management function according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic example of an analysis and generation function according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a schematic example of an AMF determination function according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a communication system according to an embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow performed in a communication system according to an embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a distributed mobile network configuration. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a registration procedure. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of NG SetUp between a CU and an AMF. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of providing analysis information (analysis results) by an NWDAF.

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

[0026] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration example of a control device 11 according to an embodiment. The control device 11 is a function of the RAN, and can perform interactions with the RAN functions including the CU and the AMF.

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

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

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

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

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

[0032] This correspondence table manages metadata for the AI ​​model, such as the Analytics ID, which indicates what kind of analysis is possible using the AI ​​model, as well as managing how long the AI ​​model will be stored locally or when the AI ​​model will be updated (whether to request the AI ​​model again from NWDAF).

[0033] <Analysis and Generation Function> Figure 2C is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the analysis and generation function according to the embodiment. When the control device 11 has sufficient computational resources for analysis and generation, the analysis and generation unit 133 can locally execute the AI ​​model downloaded from the NWDAF. On the other hand, when the control device 11 does not have sufficient computational resources for analysis and generation, the analysis and generation unit 133 can issue an analysis request to the NWDAF and obtain the analysis results.

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

[0035] <AMF Determination Function> Figure 2D is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the AMF determination function according to the embodiment. The AMF determination unit 134 makes a comprehensive judgment based on the analysis results obtained by the analysis generation unit 133 and the analysis results stored in the CN management unit 131 to determine which AMF to select. The example of Figure 2D schematically illustrates a process in which an AMF is selected based on three different analysis results.

[0036] Here, any method may be used as the method of comprehensive determination, for example, a method of determining taking into consideration NF load, a method of determining taking into consideration UE mobility as a second priority, etc. As a specific example, for a UE with high mobility, a method of selecting an AMF that supports a Local Offload option may be used to avoid frequent handovers (HO).

[0037] [Example of a communication system] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration example of a communication system P1 according to an embodiment. The example of Fig. 3 shows a network using various mobile core networks. The communication system P1 has a RAN, a Local Offload network, a Locally Administered Edge network, and an Autonomous Edge network.

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

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

[0040] 4 shows, as components of the communication system P1, a UE, a CU (RAN), a control device 11, an AMF (AMF#1), an NRF and an NWDAF (NWDAF#1) in a local offload network, and an AMF (AMF#2) and an NRF in a locally administered edge network. In the example of FIG. 4, the NRF in the local offload network is designated as NRF#1, and the NRF in the locally administered edge network is designated as NRF#2.

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

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

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

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

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

[0046] (Process T6) Having acquired the results of NF Discovery, AMF#1 transmits an NG NF DISCOVERY RESPONSE message to the control device 11. AMF#1 can include the information acquired by NF Discovery in the message. Upon receiving the NG NF DISCOVERY RESPONSE message, the control device 11 updates the correspondence table in the CN management unit 131 based on the acquired information.

[0047] In (process T7), the control device 11 sends a message similar to that in process T3 to AMF#2 in the Locally Administered Edge network. In (process T8), AMF#2 sends a message similar to that in process T4 to NRF#2. In (process T9), NRF#2 sends a message similar to that in process T5 to AMF#2. In (process T10), AMF#2 sends a message similar to that in process T6 to the control device 11. Note that no NWDAF is deployed in the Locally Administered Edge network.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0056] Here, the <Analysis and Generation Process A1>, the <Analysis and Generation Process B1>, and the <Analysis and Generation Process C1> are merely examples, and the configurations of the present embodiment do not necessarily need to be used. For example, the operator may be able to freely set the details of these processes. As an example, a process for requesting an analysis result from an NWDAF (a process similar to the <Analysis and Generation Process C1>) may be configured to be performed each time. Note that when the control device 11 queries multiple different NWDAFs, the AI ​​model or analysis result of the NWDAF that responds first, or the AI ​​model or analysis result of an NWDAF randomly selected by the control device 11, may be adopted as the AI ​​model or analysis result used for AMF selection.

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

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

[0059] (Process T28) The control device 11 determines which AMF to select using the AMF determination unit 134. Here, the control device 11 determines which AMF to select by comprehensively determining, for example, the results obtained by the analysis and generation unit 133 and the results stored in the CN management unit 131. As a method for this determination, for example, a method may be used that takes into account the NF load and, secondarily, UE mobility. (Process T29) The control device 11 sends an AMF Selection Response message to the CU (RAN). (Process T30) In this example, this message causes the CU (RAN) to send a Registration message to AMF #2 in the Locally Administered Edge network.

[0060] <Configuration in which the Functions of the Control Device are Included in the CU> Here, in the example of Fig. 3, a case is shown in which the control device 11 is provided separately from the CU, but as another example, the functions of the control device 11 may be included in the CU. When the control device 11 is incorporated as a module of the CU, it is not necessary to establish a session with the AMF separately from the CU for the control device 11. For example, in the processing flow shown in Fig. 4, an AMF Selection Request message related to processing T22 and an AMF Selection Response message related to processing T29 are not generated.

[0061] As described above, the control device 11 according to this embodiment can appropriately select an AMF. In this embodiment, the control device 11 uses analysis results obtainable from an AI model generated by the NWDAF as an element for selecting an AMF. This allows forwarding to a mobile network (e.g., a distributed mobile network) suited to the characteristics of each UE, thereby improving the efficiency of the entire mobile network (e.g., improving signal efficiency) or realizing high-speed processing of the C-Plane.

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

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

[0064] Another advantage of using the AI ​​model generated by the NWDAF is that it eliminates the need to generate an AI model again in the RAN. Therefore, in this embodiment, the RAN can obtain analysis results using the AI ​​model generated by the NWDAF, or can query the NWDAF for the analysis results, and can select an AMF based on the analysis results. This embodiment can provide a device (e.g., the control device 11), a system (e.g., the communication system P1), an interface, or a procedure for achieving this effect.

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

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

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

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

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

[0070] Furthermore, the second connection control devices that the control device accesses (e.g., makes inquiries to) are not particularly limited, and for example, the control device may randomly access the second connection control devices. Furthermore, the number of second connection control devices that the control device accesses (e.g., makes inquiries to) may be one or more.

[0071] The second connection control device (e.g., second AMF) may be the same device as the first connection control device (e.g., first AMF), or may be a different device. Also, the second analysis function (e.g., second AI model) may be substantially the same analysis function as the first analysis function (e.g., first AI model), but for convenience of explanation, they are distinguished by using different names.

[0072] In one configuration example, the second connection controller notifies the control device of metadata indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported, allowing the control device to determine which distributed mobile core options are supported by the second connection controller and to appropriately select the first connection controller based on that information.

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

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

[0075] The third connection control device (e.g., the third AMF) may be the same device as the first connection control device (e.g., the first AMF), or may be a different device. The third connection control device (e.g., the third AMF) may be the same device as the second connection control device (e.g., the second AMF), or may be a different device. In addition, in the present embodiment, the case has been described in which the functions of the first analysis and generation unit and the second analysis and generation unit are provided in the same component (in the present embodiment, the analysis and generation unit 133), but these functions may be provided in separate components.

[0076] In one configuration example, the third connection controller notifies the controller of metadata indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported, so that the controller can determine which distributed mobile core options are supported by the third connection controller and appropriately select the first connection controller based on that information.

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

[0078] For example, it is possible to provide a communication system. In one configuration example, the communication system includes an analysis device having a function of outputting an analysis result regarding a predetermined current or future situation in a mobile network, a first connection control device that is responsible for connecting the RAN and the core, and a control device. The control device includes a determination unit that determines the first connection control device based on the analysis result obtained based on the first analysis function of the analysis device.

[0079] For example, it is possible to provide a control method. In one configuration example, in the control method, a control device determines a first connection control device that is responsible for connecting between a RAN and a core, based on an analysis result obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device that has a function of outputting an analysis result regarding a current or future predetermined situation in a mobile network.

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

[0081] In one example configuration, an AMF may be provided that has (e.g., stores) metadata indicating which distributed mobile core options are supported. In one example configuration, an AMF may be provided that notifies an external device (in this embodiment, the control device 11) of the metadata. Various devices may be used as the external device.

[0082] [Regarding the above embodiment] As a result of the above, it is possible to realize an improvement in the overall service quality in, for example, a wireless network, which makes it possible to contribute to Goal 9 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) led by the United Nations, which is to "build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation."

[0083] A program for implementing the functions of any of the components of any of the above-described devices may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium and then loaded into a computer system for execution. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an operating system or peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and compact disc (CD)-read-only memories (ROMs), as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that retain a program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory within a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. Such volatile memory may be, for example, random access memory (RAM). The recording medium may also be, for example, a non-transitory recording medium.

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

[0085] Furthermore, the functions of any of the components in any of the above-described devices may be implemented by a processor. For example, each process in the embodiments may be implemented by a processor operating based on information such as a program and a computer-readable recording medium storing information such as the program. Here, the functions of each unit of the processor may be implemented by, for example, individual hardware, or may be implemented by integrated hardware. For example, the processor may include hardware, and the hardware may include at least one of a circuit for processing digital signals and a circuit for processing analog signals. For example, the processor may be configured using one or more circuit devices mounted on a circuit board, or one or both of one or more circuit elements. An integrated circuit (IC) or the like may be used as the circuit device, and a resistor or a capacitor may be used as the circuit element.

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

[0087] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, but the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes designs within the scope that do not deviate from the gist of this disclosure.

[0088] According to the control device, communication system, and control method of the present disclosure, as an example, a connection control device such as an AMF can be appropriately selected.

[0089] 11...control device, 131...CN management unit, 132...AI model management unit, 133...analysis generation unit, 134...AMF determination unit, P1...communication system

Claims

1. A control device comprising a determination unit that determines a first connection control device responsible for connecting a Radio Access Network (RAN) and a core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a current or future specified situation in a mobile network.

2. The control device as described in claim 1, comprising: an analysis function management unit that manages the results obtained by a second analysis function corresponding to the first analysis function through communication with a second connection control device; and a first analysis generation unit that generates analysis results by the second analysis function.

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

4. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a second analysis generation unit that acquires the analysis results by the first analysis function via communication with a third connection control device.

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

6. The control device of claim 1, wherein the analysis device is a Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF), the first analysis function is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) model, the first connection control device is a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), and the control device is included in the RAN.

7. The control device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the second connection control device is a second AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function), the first analysis function is a first AI (Artificial Intelligence) model, and the second analysis function is a second AI model corresponding to the first AI model.

8. The control device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the third connection control device is a third AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function), and the first analysis function is an AI (Artificial Intelligence) model.

9. The control device according to claim 1, further comprising a CN management unit that manages a CN (Core Network), wherein the determination unit determines the first connection control device based on the contents of management by the CN management unit.

10. A communications system including an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network, a first connection control device responsible for connecting a RAN (Radio Access Network) to a core, and a control device, wherein the control device has a decision unit that decides on the first connection control device based on the analysis results obtained based on the first analysis function of the analysis device.

11. A control method in which a control device determines a first connection control device responsible for connecting a Radio Access Network (RAN) and a core based on analysis results obtained based on a first analysis function of an analysis device having a function of outputting analysis results regarding a specific current or future situation in a mobile network.

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