A method for location based conditional ho optimization for non-terrestrial networks

Abstract

In accordance with example embodiments of the invention there is at least a method an apparatus to perform operating as a serving network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the non-terrestrial network; receiving from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection message, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, identifying a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and based on the identifying, communicating an indication of the update with the neighbor network node for handover of the user equipment.

Description

A METHOD FOR LOCATION BASED CONDITIONAL HO OPTIMIZATION FOR NON-TERRESTRIAL NETWORKSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The teachings in accordance with the exemplary embodiments of this invention relate generally to sharing a change in configuration of the location-based CHO of the NTN network, relate to sharing a change in configuration of the locationbased CHO of the NTN network deployed with LEO satellites between the gNBs in case of regenerative NTN architecture.BACKGROUND:

[0002] This section is intended to provide a background or context to the invention that is recited in the claims. The description herein may include concepts that could be pursued, but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

[0003] Certain abbreviations that may be found in the description and / or in the Figures are herewith defined as follows:AI / ML artificial intelligence machine learningBF beamformingCHO conditional handoverGEO geostationary earth orbiting gNB base stationLCSLEO low earth orbitingMEO medium earth orbitingNG-RAN next generation random access networkNR new radioNTN non-terrestrial networkRLF radio link frequencyRSRP reference signal received power

[0004] Some standards at the time of this application that have been agreed as one of the objectives in the SON-MDT WI in 3GPP R19 (RP -234038) include operations of mobility optimization for non-terrestrial networks (NTN).

[0005] Example embodiments of this invention proposes improved at least these mobility optimization for NTN.SUMMARY:

[0006] This section contains examples of possible implementations and is not meant to be limiting.

[0007] In another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus, such as a network side apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non- transitory memory storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: operate as a serving network node of a nonterrestrial network for user equipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the non-terrestrial network; receive from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection message, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, identify a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and based on the identifying, communicate an indication of the update with the neighbor network node for handover of the user equipment.

[0008] In still another example aspect of the invention, there is a method, comprising: operating as a serving network node of a non-terrestrial network for userequipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the non-terrestrial network; receiving from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection message, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, identifying a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and based on the identifying, communicating an indication of the update with the neighbor network nodefor handover of the user equipment.

[0009] A further example embodiment is an apparatus and a method comprising the apparatus and the method of the previous paragraphs, wherein the update comprises updates for at least one of user equipment location, reference points for the source cell and target cell of the serving network node, and source cell of serving and target cell of the neighbor network node, a change in threshold values, or collected mobility failure statistics, wherein the update is for use in artificial intelligence or machine learning training or interference resolution or mobility robustness optimization, wherein the initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment is determined based on a precision predictability of satellite movement, wherein the network node comprises a node for serving in a future a same or similar geographical area as a serving network node, wherein there is determining a change to a configuration algorithm of the initial location based conditional and over configuration, based on a change, at a given time interval covering a given geographical area, in interference caused by at least one of cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, or obstacles, wherein identifying the need to update the parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration at the other cells of the non-terrestrial network is based on the update being above a given threshold, wherein a data collection request comprises an indication of supported functionality for sharing updated location based conditional handover parameters of the user equipment, and / or wherein the information comprising the data collection response is based on acceptance at the neighbor network node of updates to location based conditional handover parameters associated with the user equipment.

[0010] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing program code, the program code executed by at least one processor to perform at least the method as described in the paragraphs above.

[0011] In yet another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus comprising: means for operating as a serving network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the non-terrestrial network; means for receiving from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection message, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, means for identifying a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and means, based on the identifying, for communicating an indication of the update with the neighbor network nodefor handover of the user equipment.

[0012] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, at least the means for determining, identifying, and communicating comprises a network interface, and computer program code stored on a computer- readable medium and executed by at least one processor.

[0013] In another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus, such as a network side apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non- transitory memory storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: operate as a neighbor network node of a target cell of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to communicate with a serving network node send towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection message; receive from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network;use the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment.

[0014] In still another example aspect of the invention, there is a method, comprising: operating as a neighbor network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to communicate with a serving network node sending towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection message; receiving from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network; using the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment.

[0015] A further example embodiment is an apparatus and a method comprising the apparatus and the method of the previous paragraphs, wherein the update comprises updates for at least one of user equipment location, reference points for the source cell and target cell of the serving network node, and source cell of serving cell and target cell of the neighbor network node, a change in threshold values, or collected mobility failure statistics, wherein the update is for use in artificial intelligence or machine learning training or interference resolution or mobility robustness optimization, wherein the initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment is based on a precision predictability of satellite movement, wherein the network node comprises a node for serving in a future a same or similar geographical area as a serving node, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on a change to a configuration algorithm of the initial location based conditional handover configuration, based on a change, at a given time interval covering a given geographical area, in interference caused by at least one of cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, or obstacles, wherein the update configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration at the neighbor network node is received based on the update being above a given threshold, wherein the data collection request comprises an indication of supported functionality for sharing updated location based conditional handover parameters of the user equipment, wherein the informationcomprising the data collection response is based on acceptance at the neighbor network node of updates to location based conditional handover parameters associated with the user equipment, and / or wherein the data collection response is based on usage of the updated configuration parameters in any subsequent location based conditional handover that this neighboring node may have to do in future.

[0016] In yet another example aspect of the invention, there is an apparatus comprising: means for operating as a neighbor network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to communicate with a serving network node; means for sending towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection message; means for receiving from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network; means for using the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment.

[0017] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, at least the means for communicating, sending, receiving, and using comprises a network interface, and computer program code stored on a computer- readable medium and executed by at least one processor.

[0018] A communication system comprising the network side apparatus and the user equipment side apparatus performing operations as described above.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

[0019] The above and other aspects, features, and benefits of various embodiments of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference signs are used to designate like or equivalent elements. The drawings are illustrated for facilitating better understanding of the embodiments of the disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale, in which:

[0020] FIG. 1 shows a Table of different deployment options according to the type of NTN platform;

[0021] FIG. 2a shows a transparent satellite-based architecture where the NTN platform relays the NR signal from the NTN gateway to the NTN terminal and vice versa;

[0022] FIG. 2b shows the regenerative satellite-based architecture where the NTN platform has onboard processing capabilities to generate / receive the NR signal to / from the NTN terminal;

[0023] FIG. 3 shows a configuration with a connection to a non-terrestrial network via both transparent NTN-based NG-RAN and terrestrial NG-RAN;

[0024] FIG. 4 shows a configuration with a connection to a non-terrestrial network via both transparent NTN-based NG-RAN and terrestrial NG-RAN where a functional split is not applied

[0025] FIG. 5 shows an Earth-fixed cell configuration;

[0026] FIG. 6 shows an Earth-moving cell configuration;

[0027] FIG. 7 shows a configuration where a received signal strength of UE 1 at cell center is different from that of a UE 2 near cell edge;

[0028] FIG. 8 shows a configuration where a measured signal strength difference between cell center and cell edge is very small;

[0029] FIG. 9 shows an earth-moving cell scenario with a location-based CHO triggering condition was introduced in 3 GPP;

[0030] FIG. 10a shows a complex view of an area covered by LEO satellite via couple of cells;

[0031] FIG. 10b shows an LEO satellite handled with a gNB on earth where a problematic area is being covered with cells handled by another satellite belong to another gNB;

[0032] FIG. 11 shows a non-regenerative NTN architecture in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

[0033] FIG. 12 shows call flow signalling of a Solution Option in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

[0034] FIG. 13 shows call flow signalling of another Solution Option in accordance with example embodiments of the invention;

[0035] FIG. 14 shows a high level block diagram of various devices used in carrying out various aspects of the invention; and

[0036] FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B each show a method in accordance with example embodiments of the invention which may be performed by an apparatus.DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0037] In example embodiments of this invention there is proposed at least a method and apparatus for sharing a change in configuration of the location-based CHO of the NTN network deployed with LEO satellites between the gNBs, such as in case of regenerative NTN architecture.

[0038] Example embodiments of the invention relate to mobile communication systems, and more particularly to optimization of the location based conditional HO in Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) architecture.

[0039] NTN

[0040] The evolution of telecommunication technologies, the ever-increasing demand for new services, and the exponential growth of smart devices fuel thedevelopment of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) as an effective solution to complement terrestrial networks in providing services over uncovered or under-served geographical areas. As defined by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) in [1], an NTN is a network where spacebome (i.e., GEO, MEO, LEO) or airborne (i.e., UAS and HAPS) vehicles act either as a relay node or as a base station, thus distinguishing transparent- and regenerative- satellite architectures. The uniqueness of NTNs is the capability to offer wide area coverage by providing connectivity over areas that are expensive or difficult to cover with terrestrial networks (i.e., rural areas, vessels, airplanes). Therefore, the NTN represents a coverage extension for the terrestrial network in a world market where customer needs are radically changing. Indeed, the demand for different services is steadily growing due to the ever-increasing number of devices connected to the Internet.

[0041] An NTN may have different deployment options according to the type of NTN platform involved, as listed in Table 1. NTN platforms are grouped into two main categories: spaceborne and airborne. The classification of spaceborne platforms typically depends on three main featuring parameters, such as altitude, beam footprintl size, and orbit. Spaceborne platforms can be distinguished in:• Geostationary Earth Orbiting (GEO) has a circular and equatorial orbit around the Earth at 35786 km altitude and the orbital period is equal to the Earth rotation period. The GEO appears fixed in the sky to the ground observers. GEO beam footprint size ranges from 200 to 3500 km;• Medium Earth Orbiting (MEO) has a circular orbit around the Earth, at an altitude varying from 7000 to 25000 km. MEO beam footprint size ranges from 100 to 1000 km;• Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) has a circular orbit around the Earth, at an altitude between 300 to 1500 km. LEO beam footprint size ranges from 100 to 1000 km. LEO and MEO are also known as Non-GEO (NGSO) satellites for their motion around Earth with a lower period than the Earth rotation; in fact, it varies from 1.5 to 10 hours.

[0042] The NTN access is featured by the following components:• NTN terminal refers to either the 3GPP User Equipment (UE) or a specific satellite terminal. Very small aperture terminals operate in the radio frequency of Ka-band (i.e., 30 GHz in the uplink and 20 GHz in the downlink), whereas handheld terminals operate in the radio frequency of S-band (i.e., 2 GHz);• NTN gateway is a logical node connecting the NTN platform with the 5G core network;• Service link is the radio link between the NTN terminal and the NTN platform;• Feeder link is the radio link between the NTN gateway and the NTN platform.

[0043] NTN Architecture

[0044] In the Next-Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN), new interfaces and protocols are added to support NTNs. An NTN platform may act as space mirror or gNB in the sky. Consequently, two satellite-based NG-RAN architectures are distinguished: transparent and regenerative. In the latter case, the NTN platform may implement partial or full gNB functionalities depending on whether the gNB functional split (i.e., the gNB consists of central and distributed units is considered or not.

[0045] FIG. 2a shows the transparent satellite-based architecture where the NTN platform relays the NR signal from the NTN gateway to the NTN terminal and vice versa. The Satellite Radio Interface (SRI) on the feeder link is the same as the radio interface on the service link (i.e., NR-Uu). The NTN gateway can forward the NR signal of the NR-Uu interface to the gNB. One or more transparent satellites may be connected to the same gNB on the ground.

[0046] FIG. 2b shows the regenerative satellite-based architecture where the NTN platform has onboard processing capabilities to generate / receive the NR signalto / from the NTN terminal. The NR-Uu interface is on the service link between the NTN terminal and the NTN platform. The radio interface between the NTN platform and the 5G Core Network (5GC) is NG that is over SRI in the air path between the NTN platform and the NTN-gateway. Inter-Satellite Links (ISL) are transport links between NTN platforms.

[0047] Another classification of the NTN architecture can be made based on the type of access. Hence, in the satellite access architecture the NTN terminal is directly served by the NTN platform, whereas in the relay-like architecture the NTN terminal and the NTN platform communicate with each other through a relay node.

[0048] In FIG. 3, the ground terminal is simultaneously connected to the 5GC via both transparent NTN-based NG-RAN and terrestrial NG-RAN. The NTN gateway is located in the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) area of the terrestrial NG-RAN.

[0049] Differently from the previous case, in this architecture, the NTN platform performs all gNB tasks (i.e., the functional split is not applied). Multiconnectivity can also involve regenerative NTN-based NG-RAN and terrestrial NG- RAN (e g., see FIG. 4).

[0050] In one remaining part of the example embodiments of the invention the focus is on NTN deployment via LEO satellites. Due to their lower altitude compared to GEO satellites, LEO satellites have a limited field of view and can only communicate with a fraction of the Earth at any given time. However sufficiently large LEO satellite constellations can offer comprehensive global coverage and deliver low latency, providing an up-to-five-fold improvement over GEO satellites. Theoretically, they can provide users a comparable experience to devices connected through terrestrial fiber connections, with transmit powers in the device that are like those of traditional cellular devices.

[0051] Type of cells in NTN with LEO spaceborne platform

[0052] Two types of cells have been identified, Earth-fixed cells and Earthmoving cells. In the former case (e.g., see FIG. 5), the cell is fixed and all the UEs inside the cell will have a certain coverage time by the LEO satellite. To increase this coverage time, each satellite has the capability to steer beams towards fixed points on Earth. This can be realized through a mechanically steerable beam or a beamforming (BF) technique. On the other hand, an Earth-moving cell (e.g., see FIG. 6) will move with the same speed as the satellite. In such a case, the location of the users inside the cell will change dynamically, and there will be constantly new users entering and going out of the cell. An advantage of this cell type is that it does not require a mechanical steering or BF, resulting in a lower satellite cost.

[0053] In the example embodiments of the invention the focus is on NTN deployed with Earth-moving cell type.

[0054] NTN handover

[0055] In case of Earth-moving cell scenario in NTN with LEO spaceborne platform due to high movement of the LEO satellites regardless of the UE movement the UE handover will have to be executed each time the given geographical area covered with the given cell is covered with another cell of the same or different LEO satellite.

[0056] In a terrestrial network, a UE can determine that the UE is near a cell edge or at cell center based on reference signal received power (RSRP). This works thanks to the clear difference between RSRPs measured at cell edge and cell center. As shown in FIG. 7, the received signal strength of UE 1 at cell center is clearly different from that of UE 2 near cell edge. Thus, the UE mobility in the terrestrial network is performed based on measured RSRP / RSRQ (reference signal received quality) of UEs. However, in NTN deployment scenarios, measured signal strength difference between cell center and cell edge is very small, as illustrated in FIG. 8. The reason of such a small difference is that the distance from the UE to the satellite does not vary much at cell center and cell edge. This is called “near-far-effecf ’ in NTN.

[0057] 3 GPP Release 17 supports location-based CHO triggering condition, condEvent DI. The condEvent DI, the UE can execute the CHO to the CHO candidate cell if the distance between the UE and a reference location of the PCell is longer than a distance thresholdl and the distance between the UE and a reference location of the CHO candidate cell is shorter than a distance threshold2.

[0058] As indicated in the previous chapter in case of Earth-moving cell scenario the location-based CHO triggering condition was introduced in Rel. 17 3GPP. The condEvent DI and related thresholdl and 2 are defined 5.5.4.15 chapter of the 3GPP TS 38.331 (e g., see FIG. 9).

[0059] The conditional evaluation at the UE is given as below in 38.331

[0060] The UE shall:1> consider the entering condition for this event to be satisfied when both condition Dl-1 and condition DI -2, as specified below, are fulfilled;2> consider the leaving condition for this event to be satisfied when condition Dl- 3 or condition Dl-4, i.e. at least one of the two, as specified below, are fulfilled;Inequality Dl-1 (Entering condition 1)Mil — Hys > ThreshlInequality DI -2 (Entering condition 2)M12 + Hys < Thresh2Inequality DI -3 (Leaving condition 1)Mil + Hys < ThreshlInequality Dl-4 (Leaving condition 2)M12 — Hys > Thresh2

[0061] The variables in the formula are defined as follows:Mil is the distance between UE and a reference location for this event (i.e. referenceLocationl as defined within reportConfigNR for this event), not taking into account any offsets;M12 is the distance between UE and a reference location for this event (i.e. referenceLocation2 as defined within reportConfigNR for this event), not taking into account any offsets;Hys is the hysteresis parameter for this event (i.e. hysteresisLocation as defined within reportConfigNR for this event);Threshl is the threshold for this event defined as a distance, configured with parameter distanceThreshFromReference 1 , from a reference location configured with parameter referenceLocationl within reportConfigNR for this event;Thresh2 is the threshold for this event defined as a distance, configured with parameter distanceThreshFromReference2, from a reference location configured with parameter referenceLocation2 within reportConfigNR for this event;Mil is expressed in meters;M12 is expressed in the same unit as Mil,Hys is expressed in the same unit as Mil;Threshl is expressed in the same unit as Mil,Thresh2 is expressed in the same unit as Mil,NOTE: The definition of Event DI also applies to CondEvent DI.

[0062] As can be observed, there are multiple independent variables defined in these entering and leaving conditions. These variables will have to be determined by the gNB and provided to the UE for it to evaluate these conditions.

[0063] As it can be seen, the condition to trigger CHO between two cells is related to the location of the UE as compared to the location of the satellites hosting the cells between which the HO is to be executed. This is defined so based on the assumption that the HO success depends solely on the geography. This may not be true, because some conditions may affect the execution, e.g.:• rain / cloud attenuation,• atmospheric absorption,• changed radio conditions on earth which may be caused by interference by other UEs or some other obstacles (e.g. closing of a stadium roof).

[0064] The hosting gNB may receive the information about changed conditions either via classic measurements of the signal strength (even if it does not depend on the location, it still offers good indication of overall radio conditions), or based on RLF reports that include location of the UE when a HO failed. Using this information, the gNB may adapt the CHO configuration to enhance CHO success rate.

[0065] Such adaptations are done per-cell, even though the conditions that triggered the change are relatively longer-lasting than the time a satellite cell can serve a UE. Thus, adaptation of configuration parameters made in the cell that first identifies the problem could likely apply also to the cell that will cover the same geographical area next. Currently, there is no mechanism for NTN gNBs to share this information amongst themselves.

[0066] For the cells handled within the same gNB (in case of regenerative NTN architecture), the change in the mobility configurations (e.g. in the condEvent DI) may be directly shared internally and applied for the other cells which may cover the same geographical area in the future time.

[0067] FIG. 10a provides a complex view of an area covered by LEO satellite via couple of cells. For simplicity a problematic scenario that may lead to a change in condEvent DI is represented via a cloud attenuation in the area covered by orange and blue cell in the point of time TO. As the LEO satellite moves in time, in point of time T1 a different set of cells will cover the same geographical area impacted with the cloud attenuation. However, as the cells that cover the area are handled with the same satellite and considering also within the same gNB then internally within the gNB the information related to change in the condEvent DI may be applied to relevant set of cells covering the area impacted with cloud attenuation in the point in time Tl.

[0068] The situation is being become more complicated in case the LEO satellite is being handled with another gNB on the earth or when the problematic area is being covered with cells handled by another satellite belong to another gNB as illustrated in Fig. 10b. In case of regenerative NTN architecture the gNB is located directly in satellite side and thus such problem may occur each time the problematic area is being covered with cells of different satellite.

[0069] Therefore, one central problem to solve is:

[0070] How to convey the corrections done (and possibly tested successfully) in cells served by a previous satellite to cells that will be served in the same geo location by the following satellite(s) ?In some cases, there may be too few RLFs or measurement reports to provide sufficient ground for the MRO algorithm to correct the issue before the satellite moves away. In this case, if every cell / gNB starts the analysis anew, the problem will never be corrected and thus users will suffer as long as the changed conditions persist.

[0071] Example embodiments of the invention relates to mobile communication systems, and more particularly to optimization of the location based conditional HO in Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) architecture. This invention provides a method for sharing a change in configuration of the location-based CHO of the NTN network deployed with LEO satellites between the gNBs in case of regenerative NTN architecture, when gNB is deployed in satellite side or between thegNBs of non-regenerative architecture when the same satellite may be handled in certain point in time by another gNB.

[0072] One problem to solve is: How to convey the corrections done (and possibly tested successfully) in cells served by a previous satellite to cells that will be served in the same geo location by the following satellite(s)?

[0073] In this case, if every cell / gNB starts the analysis anew, the problem will never be corrected and thus users will suffer as long as the changed conditions persist. Therefore, a collateral problem to solve is enabling MRO to use statistics collected at previous cells serving given area.Further, a collateral problem to solve is enabling MRO to use statistics collected at previous cells serving given area.

[0074] The example embodiments of the invention provides a method for sharing a change in configuration of the location-based CHO of the NTN network deployed with LEO satellites between the gNBs in case of regenerative NTN architecture, when gNB is deployed in satellite side or between the gNBs of non- regenerative architecture when the same satellite may be handled in certain point in time by another gNB. The idea is schematically illustrated in FIG. 11 for non- regenerative NTN architecture.

[0075] Before describing the example embodiments as disclosed herein in detail, reference is made to FIG. 14 for illustrating a simplified block diagram of various electronic devices that are suitable for use in practicing the example embodiments of the example embodiments of the invention.

[0076] FIG. 14 shows a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting exemplary system in which the example embodiments may be practiced. In FIG. 14, a user equipment (UE) 10 is in wireless communication with a wireless network 1 or network, 1 as in FIG. 14. The wireless network 1 or network 1 as in FIG. 14 can comprise a communication network such as a mobile network e.g., the mobile network 1 or first mobile network as disclosed herein. Any reference herein to a wirelessnetwork 1 as in FIG. 14 can be seen as a reference to any wireless network as disclosed herein. Further, the wireless network 1 as in FIG. 14 can also comprises hardwired features as may be required by a communication network. A UE is a wireless, typically mobile device that can access a wireless network. The UE, for example, may be a mobile phone (or called a "cellular" phone) and / or a computer with a mobile terminal function. For example, the UE or mobile terminal may also be a portable, pocket, handheld, computer-embedded or vehicle-mounted mobile device and performs a language signaling and / or data exchange with the RAN.

[0077] The UE 10 includes one or more processors DP 10 A, one or more memories MEM 10B, and one or more transceivers TRANS 10D interconnected through one or more buses. Each of the one or more transceivers TRANS 10D includes a receiver and a transmitter. The one or more buses may be address, data, or control buses, and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optics or other optical communication equipment, and the like. The one or more transceivers TRANS 10D which can be optionally connected to one or more antennas for communication to NN 12 and NN 13, respectively. The one or more memories MEM 10B include computer program code PROG 10C. The UE 10 communicates with NN 12 and / or NN 13 via a wireless link 11 or 16.

[0078] The NN 12 (NR / 5G / 6G Node B, an evolved NB, or LTE device) is a network node such as a master or secondary node base station (e.g., for NR or LTE long term evolution) that communicates with devices such as NN 13 and UE 10 of FIG. 14. The NN 12 provides access to wireless devices such as the UE 10 to the wireless network 1. The NN 12 includes one or more processors DP 12 A, one or more memories MEM 12B, and one or more transceivers TRANS 12D interconnected through one or more buses. In accordance with the example embodiments these TRANS 12D can include X2 and / or Xn interfaces for use to perform the example embodiments. Each of the one or more transceivers TRANS 12D includes a receiver and a transmitter. The one or more transceivers TRANS 12D can be optionally connected to one or more antennas for communication over at least link 11 with the UE 10. The one or more memories MEM 12B and the computer program code PROG 12C are configured tocause, with the one or more processors DP 12 A, the NN 12 to perform one or more of the operations as described herein. The NN 12 may communicate with another gNB or eNB, or a device such as the NN 13 such as via link 16 or link 18. Further, the link 11, link 16 and / or any other link may be wired or wireless or both and may implement, e.g., an X2 or Xn interface. Further the link 11 and / or link 16 and / or link 18 may be through other network devices such as, but not limited to an NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 device as in FIG. 14. The NN 12 may perform functionalities of an MME (Mobility Management Entity) or SGW (Serving Gateway), such as a User Plane Functionality, and / or an Access Management functionality for LTE and similar functionality for 5G or 6G.

[0079] The NN 13 can be for WiFi or Bluetooth or other wireless device associated with a mobility function device such as an AMF or SMF, further the NN 13 may comprise a NR / 5G / 6GNode B or possibly an evolved NB a base station such as a master or secondary node base station (e.g., for NR or LTE long term evolution) that communicates with devices such as the NN 12 and / or UE 10 and / or the wireless network 1. The NN 13 includes one or more processors DP 13 A, one or more memories MEM 13B, one or more network interfaces, and one or more transceivers TRANS 13D interconnected through one or more buses. In accordance with the example embodiments these network interfaces of NN 13 can include X2 and / or Xn interfaces for use to perform the example embodiments. Each of the one or more transceivers TRANS 13D includes a receiver and a transmitter that can optionally be connected to one or more antennas. The one or more memories MEM 13B include computer program code PROG 13C. For instance, the one or more memories MEM 13B and the computer program code PROG 13C are configured to cause, with the one or more processors DP 13 A, the NN 13 to perform one or more of the operations as described herein. The NN 13 may communicate with another mobility function device and / or eNB such as the NN 12 and the UE 10 or any other device using, e.g., link 11 or link 16 or link 18 or another link. The link 16 or link 18 as shown in FIG. 14 can be used for communication with the NN12. These links maybe wired or wireless or both and may implement, e.g., an X2 or Xn interface. Further, as stated above the link 11 and / or link 16 and / or link 18 may be through other network devices such as, but not limited toan NCE / MME / SGW device such as the NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 of FIG. 14.

[0080] The one or more buses of the device of FIG. 14 may be address, data, or control buses, and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optics or other optical communication equipment, wireless channels, and the like. For example, the one or more transceivers TRANS 12D, TRANS 13D and / or TRANS 10D may be implemented as a remote radio head (RRH), with the other elements of the NN 12 being physically in a different location from the RRH, and these devices can include one or more buses that could be implemented in part as fiber optic cable to connect the other elements of the NN 12 to a RRH.

[0081] It is noted that although FIG. 14 shows a network nodes such as NN 12 and NN 13, any of these nodes may can incorporate or be incorporated into an eNodeB or eNB or gNB such as for LTE and NR, and would still be configurable to perform example embodiments.

[0082] Also it is noted that description herein indicates that “cells” perform functions, but it should be clear that the gNB that forms the cell and / or a user equipment and / or mobility management function device that will perform the functions. In addition, the cell makes up part of a gNB, and there can be multiple cells per gNB.

[0083] The wireless network 1 or any network it can represent may or may not include a NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 that may include (NCE) network control element functionality, MME (Mobility Management Entity) / SGW (Serving Gateway) functionality, and / or serving gateway (SGW), and / or MME (Mobility Management Entity) and / or SGW (Serving Gateway) functionality, and / or user data management functionality (UDM), and / or PCF (Policy Control) functionality, and / or Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) functionality, and / or Session Management (SMF) functionality, and / or Location Management Function (LMF), and / or Authentication Server (AUSF) functionality and which provides connectivity with a further network, such as a telephone network and / or a data communicationsnetwork (e.g., the Internet), and which is configured to perform any 5G, 6G, and / or NR operations in addition to or instead of other standard operations at the time of this application. The NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 is configurable to perform operations in accordance with example embodiments in any of an LTE, NR, 5G, 6G, and / or any standards based communication technologies being performed or discussed at the time of this application. In addition, it is noted that the operations in accordance with example embodiments, as performed by the NN 12 and / or NN 13, may also be performed at the NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14.

[0084] The NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 includes one or more processors DP 14A, one or more memories MEM 14B, and one or more network interfaces (N / W I / F(s)), interconnected through one or more buses coupled with the link 13 and / or link 16 and / or link 18. In accordance with the example embodiments these network interfaces can include X2 and / or Xn interfaces for use to perform the example embodiments. The one or more memories MEM 14B include computer program code PROG 14C. The one or more memories MEM14B and the computer program code PROG 14C are configured to, with the one or more processors DP 14 A, cause the NCE / MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 to perform one or more operations which may be needed to support the operations in accordance with the example embodiments.

[0085] It is noted that that the NN 12 and / or NN 13 and / or UE 10 can be configured (e.g. based on standards implementations etc.) to perform functionality of a Location Management Function (LMF). The LMF functionality may be embodied in any of these network devices or other devices associated with these devices. In addition, an LMF such as the LMF of the MME / SGW / UDM / PCF / AMF / SMF / LMF 14 of FIG. 14, as at least described below, can be co-located with UE 10 such as to be separate from the NN 12 and / or NN 13 of FIG. 14 for performing operations in accordance with example embodiments as disclosed herein.

[0086] The wireless Network 1 may implement network virtualization, which is the process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functionality into a single, software-based administrative entity, a virtual network.Network virtualization involves platform virtualization, often combined with resource virtualization. Network virtualization is categorized as either external, combining many networks, or parts of networks, into a virtual unit, or internal, providing network-like functionality to software containers on a single system. Note that the virtualized entities that result from the network virtualization are still implemented, at some level, using hardware such as processors DP10, DP12A, DP13A, and / or DP14A and memories MEM 10B, MEM 12B, MEM 13B, and / or MEM 14B, and also such virtualized entities create technical effects.

[0087] The computer readable memories MEM 12B, MEM 13B, and MEM 14B may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor based memory devices, flash memory, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory and removable memory. The computer readable memories MEM 12B, MEM 13B, and MEM 14B may be means for performing storage functions. The processors DP10, DP12A, DP13A, and DP14A may be of any type suitable to the local technical environment, and may include one or more of general purpose computers, special purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs) and processors based on a multi-core processor architecture, as non-limiting examples. The processors DP10, DP12A, DP13A, and DP14A may be means for performing functions, such as controlling the UE 10, NN 12, NN 13, and other functions as described herein.

[0088] In general, various embodiments of any of these devices can include, but are not limited to, cellular telephones such as smart phones, tablets, personal digital assistants (PDAs) having wireless communication capabilities, portable computers having wireless communication capabilities, image capture devices such as digital cameras having wireless communication capabilities, gaming devices having wireless communication capabilities, music storage and playback appliances having wireless communication capabilities, Internet appliances permitting wireless Internet access and browsing, tablets with wireless communication capabilities, as well as portable units or terminals that incorporate combinations of such functions.

[0089] Further, the various embodiments of any of these devices can be used with a UE vehicle, a High Altitude Platform Station, or any other such type node associated with a terrestrial network or any drone type radio or a radio in aircraft or other airborne vehicle or a vessel that travels on water such as a boat.As similarly stated above, example embodiments of the invention provides a method for sharing a change in configuration of the location-based CHO of the NTN network deployed with LEO satellites between the gNBs in case of regenerative NTN architecture, when gNB is deployed in satellite side or between the gNBs of non- regenerative architecture when the same satellite may be handled in certain point in time by another gNB. The idea is schematically illustrated for non-regenerative NTN architecture in FIG. 11.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 11 as the satellite is moving at a certain point in time the same satellite may be served with another gNB, gNB2 (“hard feeder switch link”). The gNB2 will then have to do the correction of the distance again from zero. With the method the gNB may offer the info to gNB2. In other words said the gNB2 may benefit from the correction work gNBl already did in this area before. The information that may be shared is directly initial UE location, reference point location, corrected distance and / or its correction.

[0091] The configuration parameters related to location based CHO are shared between the NTN gNBs over Xn in a live manner. So, the original and any corrections derived thereon are shared over a new Xn message so that the NTN gNB that will cover the same geographical area later will have the latest value already computed and need not do the same calculation from scratch.

[0092] There are two alternatives to implement the method. The first option is based on direct sharing between the gNBs the UE location when CHO configuration was sent to UE, reference points in PCell, CHO candidate cell and condEvent DI. This option may be applied directly in, the gNB that covers the same geographical area next as per the mobility path of the satellites or applicable to ML when ML model in the gNB is used to provide the location based CHO configuration in NTN architecture.

[0093] Solution Option- 1

[0094] The solution could be described in the following MSC:

[0095] FIG. 12 shows call flow signalling of a Solution Option in accordance with example embodiments of the invention.

[0096] FIG. 12 shows communications between a UE, such as the UE 10 as in FIG. 14, and a serving gNB and a neighbor gNB, such as the NN 12 and / or NN 13 as in FIG. 14. The novel aspects are underlined in FIG. 12 and start with an asterisks *.

[0097] As shown in step 1 of FIG. 12 the serving gNB performs a CHO decision. As shown in step 2of FIG. 12 the serving gNB sends towards the UE an RRC reconfig (location based CHO configuration). As shown in step 3 of FIG. 12, there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where the serving gNB sends towards the neighbor gNB an XN: data collection request, including an indication that location based CHO config update is supported. As shown in step 4 of FIG. 12 the neighbor gNB accepts the updates to location based CHO parameters. As shown in step 5 of FIG. 12 the neighbor gNB sends towards the serving gNB an XN data collection response. As shown in step 6 of FIG. 12 the serving gNB determines the need to update the location based CHO configuration. As shown in step 7 of FIG. 12 , there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where the serving gNB sends towards the neighbor gNB XN indication of change in threshold values, UE location, reference points, and / or change in threshold values. Then as shown in step 8 of FIG. 12 the neighbor gNB uses the new values as given in step 7 in an AI / ML model training and / or inference.

[0098] Some novel points related to the call flow include:

[0099] Step 3 : Once the source gNB initiates Location based CHO, it indicates that it supports functionality of sharing updated Location based CHO parameters to its neighbouring gNBs. These gNBs could include those that are likely to cover the same geographical area at a later point in time. The neighbouring gNBs then accept to receive and use this information.

[0100] Step 6: The source gNB, at the time of CHO execution, determines that a change in the configured CHO parameters is required due to various conditions and these parameters will be useful for the said neighbouring gNBs.

[0101] Step 7: The updated parameters like UE location, the reference points in the serving / neighboring gNBs and change in threshold values shall be shared in a new Xn message (or IES added to existing message) to neighboring gNBs.

[0102] Step 8: The updated values could be used by the neighboring gNBs for applications like AIML - in ML model training, inference etc.,

[0103] Solution Option-2The second option is related to MRO for NTN. The reporting between the gNBs shall be executed based on new LE-specific report. This new report may be created in the gNB based on the following triggers:• Change in the threshold 1 compared to previous threshold 1 value (may be given as a percentage value);• Change in the threshold 2 compared to previous threshold 2 value (may be given as a percentage value).During the execution phase of the location based CHO for NTN, if the change of the thresholdl was in the absolute value above the configured parameter or / and the change of the threshold2 was in the absolute value above the configured parameter an the CHO was successfully completed, then the corresponding gNB, where the CHO happen (source gNB), may send the new report containing the following info:• LE location when CHO configuration was sent to UE,• Reference points in PCell and CHO candidate cell;• Change in the thresholdl and / or threshold2 (based on which one triggered the report).

[0104] FIG. 13 shows call flow signalling of another Solution Option in accordance with example embodiments of the invention.

[0105] FIG. 13 shows communications between a UE, such as the UE 10 as in FIG. 14, and a serving gNB and a neighbor gNB, such as the NN 12 and / or NN 13 as in FIG. 14. The novel aspects are underlined in FIG. 13 and start with an asterisks *.

[0106] As shown in step 1 of FIG. 13 the serving gNB performs a CHO decision. As shown in step 2of FIG. 13 the neighbor gNB sends towards the serving gNB an HO request acknowledgement. As shown in step 2.1 of FIG. 13, there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where the serving gNB performs a default LCS CHO configuration. As shown in step 2.2 of FIG. 13, there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where the serving gNB sends towards the neighbor gNB XN: location based CHO config update, including the UE location, reference points, and / or change in threshold values. As shown in step 3 of FIG. 13 the serving GNB sends towards the UE an RRC reconfig (LCS CHO configuration). As shown in step 4 of FIG. 13 the UE performs a CHO evaluation. As shown in step 5 of FIG. 13 the UE, the serving gNB, and the neighbor gNB each identify UE access of neighbor gNB cell. As shown in step 6 of FIG. 13 the neighbor gNB sends towards the serving gNB Xn: HO success. As shown in step 7 of FIG. 13 the serving gNB sends towards the neighbor gNB Xn: SN status transfer. The neighbor gNB then starts UL / DL data. As shown in step 8 of FIG. 13 the neighbor gNB sends towards the serving gNB Xn: UE context release. The serving gNB releases the UE context. As shown in step 9 of FIG. 13, there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where the serving gNB evaluates the change in threshold value. As shown in step 10 of FIG. 13, there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where Xn: location based CHO config update, including UE location, reference points, and / or change in threshold values. Then as shown in step 11 of FIG. 13, there is a novel step as shown by an asterisks, where the neighbor gNB makes use of the updated values.

[0107] The following call flow provides the high-level solution description

[0108] The following are the key novel aspects of this solution.The novel aspects as below are underlined and start with an asterisks *Step 2.1 : The predictability of satellites movement implies that gNB may predict the cells radio coverage and exploit that information to optimize the HO procedure. Which means that first location based CHO configuration may be mainly based on the high precision predictability of satellite movement - default location based CHO configuration algorithm.Step 2.2: The derived initial values of Location based CHO configuration are shared with neighbour gNBs.Step 9: The source gNB may evaluate if any updated CHO configuration values have to be provided to its neighbour. Once the gNB which is at the given time interval covering the given geographical area finds out due to an impact (cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, obstacles) there is change in the location based CHO configuration compared to default location based CHO configuration, the gNB may change the configuration to 1st location based CHO configuration algorithm.Step 10: If the updated values are more than a given threshold, then the source gNB then updates its neighbours about the modified values over Xn. This could be a new Xn message or IES added to existing Xn message - the decision could be done in 3GPP.Step 11 : The neighbour gNBs then may make use of these updated values when it has to initiate a CHO over the same geographical area at a later time.If the time spent over the problematic area is too short to collect enough statistics to enable adaptation of the mobility configuration, the procedures mentioned above may be used to forward them to the next gNB that serves the area. These statistics may contain for example: a list of RLFs with timestamps,• reported measurements,• locations and service types affected,• or any other statistics relevant for MRO analysis.

[0109] Example embodiments of the invention provide at least a method for sharing a change in configuration of the location-based CHO of the NTN network deployed with LEO satellites between the gNBs.

[0110] The configuration parameters related to location-based CHO are shared between the NTN gNBs over Xn in a live manner. Once the source gNB initiates Location based CHO, it indicates that it supports functionality of sharing updated Location based CHO parameters to its neighbouring gNBs. gNBs could include those that are likely to cover the same geographical area at a later point in time.

[0111] The updated values could be used by the neighboring gNBs for applications like AIML - in ML model training, inference etc. The reporting between the gNBs shall be executed based on new UE-specific report.

[0112] Change in the thresholdl compared to previous thresholdl value. Change in the threshold 2 compared to previous threshold 2 value. If the CHO was successfully completed, then the corresponding gNB, where the CHO happen (source gNB), may send the new report. The UE location when CHO configuration was sent to UE. A gNB Reference points in PCell and CHO candidate cell, including a change in the thresholdl and / or threshold2.

[0113] The first option is based on direct sharing between the gNBs the UE location when CHO configuration was sent to UE, reference points in PCell, CHO candidate cell and condEvent DI. This option may be applied directly in the gNB that covers the same geographical area next as per the mobility path of the satellites or applicable to ML when ML model in the gNB is used to provide the location-based CHO configuration in NTN architecture.

[0114] The second option is related to MRO for NTN. The reporting between the gNBs shall be executed based on new UE-specific report.

[0115] FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B each show a method in accordance with example embodiments of the invention which may be performed by an apparatus.

[0116] FIG. 15A illustrates operations which may be performed by a device such as, but not limited to, a device such as a network node (e.g., the NN12 and / or NN13 as in FIG. 14). As shown in block 1505 of FIG. 15A there is operating as a serving network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the nonterrestrial network. As shown in block 1510 of FIG. 15A there is based on the determining, communicating a data collection request with the neighbor network node. As shown in block 1515 of FIG. 15A there is based on the communicating, receiving from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection response. As shown in block 1520 of FIG. 15A there is based on changing conditions in the nonterrestrial network, identifying a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment. Then as shown in block 1525 of FIG. 15 A there is based on the identifying, communicating an indication of the update with the neighbor network nodefor handover of the user equipment.

[0117] In accordance with an example embodiment, the request-response procedure for the data collection is replaced by unsolicited transmission of the contents of the data collection response described herein, e.g. unsolicited indication that the neighbor node shall accept updates to the location-based conditional handover parameters. In such a case, the transmission of the data collection request may be omitted, and the transmission / reception of the data collection response may be replaced by transmission / reception of a data collection message comprising the unsolicited indication.

[0118] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, wherein the update comprises updates for at least one of user equipment location, reference points for the source cell and target cell of the serving network node, and source cell of serving and target cell of the neighbor network node, a change in threshold values, or collected mobility failure statistics.

[0119] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the update is for use in artificial intelligence or machine learning training or interference resolution or mobility robustness optimization.

[0120] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment is determined based on a precision predictability of satellite movement.

[0121] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the network node comprises a node for serving in a future a same or similar geographical area as a serving network node.

[0122] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein there is determining a change to a configuration algorithm of the initial location based conditional handover configuration, based on a change, at a given time interval covering a given geographical area, in interference caused by at least one of cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, or obstacles.

[0123] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein identifying the need to update the parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration at the other cells of the nonterrestrial network is based on the update being above a given threshold.

[0124] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the data collection request comprises an indication of supported functionality for sharing updated location based conditional handover parameters of the user equipment.

[0125] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the information comprising the data collection response is based on acceptance at the neighbor network node of updates to location based conditional handover parameters associated with the user equipment.

[0126] A non-transitory computer-readable medium (MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) storing program code (PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C as in FIG. 14), the program code executed by at least one processor (DP 12A and / or DP 13A as in FIG. 14) to perform the operations as at least described in the paragraphs above.

[0127] In accordance with an example embodiment of the invention as described above there is an apparatus comprising: means for operating (DP 12A and / or DP 13A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) as a serving network node (NN 12 and / or NN 13 as in FIG. 14) of a non-terrestrial network (Network 1 as in FIG. 14) for user equipment (UE 10 as in FIG. 14) to determine (DP 12A and / or DP 13A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the non-terrestrial networkwith user equipment; means, based on the determining, for communicating (DP 12A and / or DP 13 A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) a data collection request with the neighbor network node; means, based on the communicating, for receiving (DP 12A and / or DP 13 A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection response; means, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, for identifying (DP 12A and / or DP 13A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) a need to update (DP 12A and / or DP 13 A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and means, based on the identifying, for communicating (DP 12A and / or DP 13A, PROG 12C and / or PROG 13C, and MEM 12B / and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14) an indication of the update with the neighbor network node for handover of the user equipment.

[0128] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, at least the means for operating, determining, receiving, identifying, updating, and communicating comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium [MEM 12B and / or MEM 13B as in FIG. 14] encoded with a computer program [PROG12C and / or PROG 13C as in FIG. 14] executable by at least one processor [DP 12A and / or DP 13 A as in FIG. 14],

[0129] FIG. 15B illustrates operations which may be performed by a device such as, but not limited to, a device such as a network node (e.g., the UE 10 as in FIG. 14). As shown in block 1550 of FIG. 15A there is operating as a neighbor network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to communicate with a serving network node a data collection request. As shown in block 1555 of FIG. 15B there is, based on the data collection request, sending towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection response, As shown in block 1560 of FIG. 15B there is receiving from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment. As shown in block 1565 of FIG. 15B wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network. Then as shown in block 1570 of FIG. 15B there is using the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment.

[0130] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, wherein the update comprises updates for at least one of user equipment location, reference points for the source cell and target cell of the serving network node, and source cell of serving cell and target cell of a neighbor network node, a change in threshold values, or collected mobility failure statistics.

[0131] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the update is for use in artificial intelligence or machine learning training or interference resolution or mobility robustness optimization.

[0132] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment is based on a precision predictability of satellite movement.

[0133] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the neighbor network node comprises a node for serving in a future a same or similar geographical area as a serving node

[0134] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the target cell comprises one of a neighbor cell or another cell served by the serving network node.

[0135] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on a change to a configuration algorithm of the initial location based conditional handover configuration, based on a change, at a given time interval covering a given geographical area, in interference caused by at least one of cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, or obstacles.

[0136] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the update configuration parameters of the Initial location based conditional handover configuration at the neighbor network node is received based on the update being above a given threshold.

[0137] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the data collection request comprises an indication of supported functionality for sharing updated location based conditional handover parameters of the user equipment.

[0138] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the information comprising the data collection response is based on acceptance at the neighbor network node of updates to location based conditional handover parameters associated with the user equipment.

[0139] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraphs above, wherein the data collection response is based on usage of the updated configuration parameters in any subsequent location based conditional handover that this neighboring node may have to do in future.

[0140] A non-transitory computer-readable medium (MEM 10B as in FIG. 14) storing program code (PROG 10C as in FIG. 14), the program code executed by at least one processor (DP 10A as in FIG. 14) to perform the operations as at least described in the paragraphs above.

[0141] In accordance with an example embodiment of the invention as described above there is an apparatus comprising: means for operating (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in 14) as a neighbor network node (NN 12 and / or NN 13 as in FIG. 14) of a target cell of a non-terrestrial network (Network 1 as in FIG. 14) for user equipment (UE 10 as in FIG. 14) to communicate (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in 14) with a serving network node a data collection request; means, based on the data collection request, for sending (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in 14) towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection response; means for receiving (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in 14) from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network; means for using (one or more transceivers 10D; MEM 10B; PROG 10C; and DP 10A as in 14) the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment

[0142] In accordance with the example embodiments as described in the paragraph above, at least the means for operating, determining, sending, receiving, identifying, updating, using, and communicating comprises a non-transitory computer readable medium [MEM 10B as in FIG. 14] encoded with a computer program [PROG 10C as in FIG. 14] executable by at least one processor [DP 10A as in FIG. 14],

[0143] Advantages of example embodiments of the invention at least include:■ UE power saving and / or UL energy efficiency enhancement while considering system level aspects (e.g., interference management); and■ Potential Tput enhancements and / or latency reduction;■ Avoiding unnecessary optimization work to be done by the gNB covering the given geographical area which was already made by other gNBs that covered the same area in the past;■ In details, each gNB (first gNB) which made a change in the configuration of the location based HO compared to previous configuration or default configuration based on deterministic knowledge of movement of the LEO satellite may share this change to other gNB (2nd gNB) satellites which may cover the same area later compared to first gNB . the 2nd gNB will not have to repeat the optimization work done by 1st gNB. The other gNB (2nd gNB) then may continue in the optimization of the location-based CHO on the top of that and if finds another change in the configuration of location-based CHO share the whole change into another gNB (3rd gNB) which may handle the same geographical area in some later time compared to 2nd gNB. The 3rd gNB may avoid the optimization work done by 1st and 2nd gNB;■ Finally, it may be obtained that N-th gNB which received configuration changes form (N-l) th gNB will not have to repeat the optimization work done by previous N-l gNBs that handled the same area in the past.

[0144] It is noted that computer-implemented inventions (CII) may be claimed as apparatus claims, method claims, and software claims. In some jurisdictions, such as in Europe, signal claims can also be made. In the U.S., a software claim must be claimed as a non-transitory computer program product or a non-transitory computer readable medium.

[0145] The term “non-transitory,” as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal ) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0146] In other jurisdictions, a software claim can be claimed as a computer program, a data structure, and / or a computer readable medium.

[0147] Further, in accordance with example embodiments of the invention there is circuitry for performing operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein. This circuitry can include any type of circuitry including content coding circuitry, content decoding circuitry, processing circuitry, image generation circuitry, data analysis circuitry, etc.). Further, this circuitry can include discrete circuitry, application-specific integrated circuitry (ASIC), and / or field- programmable gate array circuitry (FPGA), etc. as well as a processor specifically configured by software to perform the respective function, or dual-core processors with software and corresponding digital signal processors, etc.). Additionally, there are provided necessary inputs to and outputs from the circuitry, the function performed by the circuitry and the interconnection (perhaps via the inputs and outputs) of the circuitry with other components that may include other circuitry in order to perform example embodiments of the invention as described herein.

[0148] In accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed in this application this application, the “circuitry” provided can include at least one or more or all of the following:(a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry);(b) combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable):(i) a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware; and(ii) any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions, such as functions or operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed herein); and(c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor s), that requires software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.”

[0149] In accordance with example embodiments of the invention, there is adequate circuitry for performing at least novel operations in accordance with example embodiments of the invention as disclosed in this application, this 'circuitry' as may be used herein refers to at least the following:(a) hardware-only circuit implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry); and(b) to combinations of circuits and software (and / or firmware), such as (as applicable): (i) to a combination of processor(s) or (ii) to portions of processor(s) / software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions); and(c) to circuits, such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor s), that require software or firmware for operation, even if the software or firmware is not physically present.

[0150] This definition of 'circuitry' applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuitry" would also cover an implementation of merely a processor (or multiple processors) or portion of a processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term "circuitry" would also cover, for example and if applicable to the particular claim element, a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other network device.

[0151] In general, the various embodiments may be implemented in hardware or special purpose circuits, software, logic or any combination thereof. For example,some aspects may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software which may be executed by a controller, microprocessor or other computing device, although the invention is not limited thereto. While various aspects of the invention may be illustrated and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other pictorial representation, it is well understood that these blocks, apparatus, systems, techniques or methods described herein may be implemented in, as non-limiting examples, hardware, software, firmware, special purpose circuits or logic, general purpose hardware or controller or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0152] Embodiments of the inventions may be practiced in various components such as integrated circuit modules. The design of integrated circuits is by and large a highly automated process. Complex and powerful software tools are available for converting a logic level design into a semiconductor circuit design ready to be etched and formed on a semiconductor substrate.

[0153] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any embodiment described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. All of the embodiments described in this Detailed Description are exemplary embodiments provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by the claims.

[0154] The foregoing description has provided by way of exemplary and nonlimiting examples a full and informative description of the best method and apparatus presently contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the invention. However, various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant arts in view of the foregoing description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. However, all such and similar modifications of the teachings of example embodiments of this invention will still fall within the scope of this invention.

[0155] It should be noted that the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof, mean any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements, and may encompass the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are "connected" or "coupled" together. The coupling or connection between the elements can be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. As employed herein two elements may be considered to be "connected" or "coupled" together by the use of one or more wires, cables and / or printed electrical connections, as well as by the use of electromagnetic energy, such as electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency region, the microwave region and the optical (both visible and invisible) region, as several non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples.

[0156] Furthermore, some of the features of the preferred embodiments of this invention could be used to advantage without the corresponding use of other features. As such, the foregoing description should be considered as merely illustrative of the principles of the invention, and not in limitation thereof.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory memory storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: operate as a serving network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by a neighbor node of the non-terrestrial network, receive from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection message, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, identify a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and based on the identifying, communicate an indication of the update with the neighbor network node for handover of the user equipment.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the update comprises updates for at least one of user equipment location, reference points for the source cell and target cell of the serving network node, and source cell of serving and target cell of a neighbor network node, a change in threshold values, or collected mobility failure statistics.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the update is for use in artificial intelligence or machine learning training or interference resolution or mobility robustness optimization.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment is determined based on a precision predictability of satellite movement.

5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the network node comprises a node for serving in a future a same or similar geographical area as a serving node.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one non-transitory memory is storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: determine a change to a configuration algorithm of the initial location based conditional handover configuration, based on a change, at a given time interval covering a given geographical area, in interference caused by at least one of cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, or obstacles.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein identifying the need to update the parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration at the other cells of the non-terrestrial network is based on the update being above a given threshold.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, configured to based on the determining, communicate a data collection request with the neighbor network node and receive the data collection message in response to the data collection request, wherein the data collection request comprises an indication of supported functionality for sharing updated location based conditional handover parameters of the user equipment.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the information comprising the data collection message is based on acceptance at the neighbor network node of updates to location based conditional handover parameters associated with the user equipment.

10. A method, compri sing : operating as a serving network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to determine configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment to cells served by the serving network node or from cells served by serving network node to cell served by neighbor node of the non-terrestrial network;receiving from the neighbor network node information comprising a data collection message, based on changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network, identifying a need to update the configuration parameters of the initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment; and based on the identifying, communicating an indication of the update with the neighbor network node for handover of the user equipment.

11. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory memory storing instructions, that when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: operate as a neighbor network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to communicate with a serving network node; send towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection message; receive from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network; use the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the update comprises updates for at least one of user equipment location, reference points for the source cell and target cell of the serving network node, and source cell of serving cell and target cell of a neighbor network node, a change in threshold values, or collected mobility failure statistics.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the update is for use in artificial intelligence or machine learning training or interference resolution or interference resolution or mobility robustness optimization14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the initial location based conditional handover configuration of the user equipment is based on a precision predictability of satellite movement.

15. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the neighbor network node comprises a node for serving in a future a same or similar geographical area as a serving node.

16. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on a change to a configuration algorithm of the initial location based conditional handover configuration, based on a change, at a given time interval covering a given geographical area, in interference caused by at least one of cloud, atmospheric attenuation, radio quality, or obstacles.

17. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the update configuration parameters of the Initial location based conditional handover configuration at the neighbor network node is received based on the update being above a given threshold.

18. The apparatus of claim 11, configured to, based on the determining, communicate a data collection request with the neighbor network node, and receive the data collection message in response to the data collection request, wherein the data collection request comprises an indication of supported functionality for sharing updated location based conditional handover parameters of the user equipment.

19. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the information comprising the data collection message is based on acceptance at the neighbor network node of updates to location based conditional handover parameters associated with the user equipment.

20. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the data collection message is based on usage of the updated configuration parameters in any subsequent location based conditional handover that this neighboring node may have to do in future.

21. A method, compri sing :operating as a neighbor network node of a non-terrestrial network for user equipment to communicate with a serving network node; sending towards the serving network node information comprising a data collection response; receiving from the serving network node, update configuration parameters of an initial location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment, wherein the update configuration parameters are based on changing conditions associated with changing conditions in the non-terrestrial network; using the update configuration parameters to update a location based conditional handover configuration for handover of the user equipment.

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