Apparatus and method for a network device

Abstract

An apparatus for a network device, the apparatus comprising at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: determine first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device, transmit the first information to at least one further entity.

Description

[0001] Title: Apparatus and Method for a Network Device

[0002] Specification

[0003] Field of the Disclosure

[0004] Various example embodiments relate to an apparatus for a network device.

[0005] Further example embodiments relate to a method for a network device .

[0006] Background

[0007] Communication systems such as, e.g., wireless communication systems may be used for wireless exchange of information between two or more entities, e.g., comprising one or more terminal device, e.g., user equipment (UE) , and one or more network devices such as, e.g., base stations.

[0008] In some conventional approaches, a distributed Capacity and Coverage Optimization, CCO, feature was introduced, e.g., for NR in 3GPP Rel-17. The purpose of the CCO feature is to detect and resolve, e.g., coverage issues and cell edge capacity issues. In some conventional approaches, an NG-RAN node may determine CCO issues based on different observations including UE radio measurements, Radio Link Failure, Radio Connection Establishment Failure and observed performance (e.g. throughput, packet loss) of its served terminal devices, e.g., UEs. In some conventional approaches, when a CCO issue is detected, a conventional NG-RAN node may perform dynamic cell level and beam level coverage configuration changes by autonomously switching between pre-configured coverage states, and inform neighbour nodes about the change and the corresponding CCO cause e.g., set to "coverage", "cell edge capacity" or "network energy saving". In some conventional approaches, at least one neighbour node may similarly adjust its own coverage configuration, taking into account the CCO cause provided by its neighbour.

[0009] Thus, in some conventional approaches, different coverage states may be given, which may, e.g., be associated with at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device.

[0010] Summary

[0011] Various example embodiments of the disclosure are set out by the independent claims. The example embodiments and features, if any, described in this specification, that do not fall under the scope of the independent claims, are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding various example embodiments of the disclosure.

[0012] Some example embodiments relate to an apparatus for a network device, the apparatus comprising at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: determine, e.g., collect, first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device, transmit the first information to at least one further entity. In some examples, this may enable, e.g., the at least one further entity to be aware of the coverage state, and, e.g., to take into account the coverage state, e.g., when processing information associated with a trajectory, e.g., a predicted trajectory, of, e.g., the terminal device.

[0013] In some examples, the network device is a network device for a wireless communication system. In some examples, the wireless communication system may adhere to and / or may be based on some accepted (and / or planned) standard, such as, e.g. 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, or some other wireless communication standard.

[0014] In some examples, the network device is a base station, e.g., NG-RAN node, e.g., gNB or ng-eNB, for the wireless communication system, e.g., a first NG-RAN node or first gNB or first ng-eNB.

[0015] In some examples, the network device may provide at least one radio cell and / or at least one radio beam, e.g., to serve the terminal device.

[0016] In some examples, the at least one further entity may, e.g., also be a base station, e.g., NG-RAN node, e.g., gNB or ng- eNB, for the wireless communication system, e.g., a second NG-RAN node or second gNB or second ng-eNB, e.g., a neighbor gNB of the first gNB or a neighbor ng-eNB of the first ng- eNB.

[0017] In some examples, the first information characterizes at least one of: a) at least one coverage configuration associated with a cell, or b) at least one coverage configuration associated with a beam.

[0018] In some examples, the first information may, e.g., be signaled over an Xn interface according to some planned or accepted standard.

[0019] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: receive a first message from the at least one further entity, determine the first information based on, e.g., upon, receipt of the first message. In some examples, the first message may, e.g., be a DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message according to some planned and / or accepted standard, e.g. as described in 3GPP TS 38.423. In other words, in some examples, a conventional DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message according to some planned and / or accepted standard may be extended, e.g., by including information associated with the first message according to the disclosure .

[0020] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: transmit the first information to the at least one further entity using a second message.

[0021] In some examples, the second message may, e.g., be a DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message according to some planned and / or accepted standard.

[0022] In some examples, the coverage state may, e.g., be added to or included in, respectively, information characterizing a measured trajectory of the terminal device, e.g., within the DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message.

[0023] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: transmit the first information together with at least one of the following elements within the second message: a) at least one measurement identifier (e.g., a measurement ID, e.g., of the first network device or first NG-RAN node, respectively) , or b) at least one measured trajectory associated with the terminal device.

[0024] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: receive, e.g., from the at least one further entity, e.g., the second network device, e.g., second NG-RAN node, second information characterizing at least one of: a) a condition for stopping a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device on cell level or beam level, e.g., at the first network device, or b) a condition for continuing a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device on cell level or beam level, e.g., at the first network device, or c) control information indicating a number of coverage states to be reported, e.g., by transmitting the first information, e.g., by the first network device, perform, based on the second information at least one of: dl) at least one measurement of the trajectory of the terminal device, or d2 ) reporting associated with at least one measurement of the trajectory of the terminal device, or d3) stop the at least one measurement.

[0025] In some examples, the second information may, e.g., be comprised in the first message, e.g., the first network device may, e.g., receive the second information within the first message, e.g., a DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message.

[0026] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: receive third information characterizing at least one of: a) a predicted trajectory of the terminal device, or b) at least one coverage state of at least one predicted cell associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device, e.g., at least one coverage state that is applicable for a prediction of the trajectory, or c) at least one coverage state of at least one predicted beam associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device, e.g., at least one coverage state that is applicable for a prediction of the tra j ectory .

[0027] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device, the apparatus comprising means for: determining first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device , transmitting the first information to at least one further entity .

[0028] In some examples , the means for determining and transmitting the first information may, e . g . , comprise at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that , when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to perform the aforementioned aspects of determining and transmitting the first information .

[0029] In some examples , the means for determining and transmitting the first information may, e . g . , comprise circuitry configured to perform the aforementioned aspects of determining and transmitting the first information .

[0030] Some examples relate to a method for a network device , comprising : determining first information characteri zing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device , transmitting the first information to at least one further entity .

[0031] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device , the apparatus comprising at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that , when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to : receive first information characteri zing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device , predict , based at least on the first information, a traj ectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state .

[0032] In some examples the instructions , when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to : use at least one arti ficial intelligence model for the prediction . In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to perform at least one of: a) requesting measured trajectory information characterizing at least one trajectory of at least one terminal device (e.g., "measured UE trajectory information") from at least one further entity, or b) training the at least one artificial intelligence model based on the measured trajectory information.

[0033] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: transmit second information characterizing at least one of: a) a condition for stopping a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device on cell level or beam level, or b) a condition for continuing a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device on cell level or beam level, or c) control information indicating a number of coverage states to be reported .

[0034] In some examples, the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to: transmit third information characterizing at least one of: a) a predicted trajectory of the terminal device, or b) a coverage state of at least one predicted cell associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device, or c) a coverage state of at least one predicted beam associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device.

[0035] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a network device, the apparatus comprising means for: receiving first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device, predicting, based at least on the first information, a trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state. In some examples, the means for receiving the first information and predicting, based at least on the first information, the trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state may, e.g., comprise at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network device to perform the aforementioned aspects of receiving and predicting.

[0036] In some examples, the means for receiving the first information and predicting, based at least on the first information, the trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state may, e.g., comprise circuitry configured to perform the aforementioned aspects of receiving and predicting.

[0037] Some examples relate to a method for a network device, comprising: receiving first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device, predicting, based at least on the first information, a trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state.

[0038] Some examples relate to a network device, e.g., a base station, e.g., gNB, for a communication system, the network device comprising at least one apparatus according to the disclosure .

[0039] Some examples relate to a communication system comprising at least one apparatus according to the disclosure.

[0040] Brief Description of the Figures

[0041] Fig. 1A schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0042] Fig. IB schematically depicts a simplified block diagram, Fig . 2 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0043] Fig . 3 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0044] Fig. 4A schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0045] Fig. 4B schematically depicts a simplified block diagram, Fig. 5 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0046] Fig. 6 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0047] Fig. 7 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0048] Fig. 8A schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0049] Fig. 8B schematically depicts a simplified block diagram, Fig. 9 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0050] Fig. 10 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0051] Fig. 11 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0052] Fig. 12 schematically depicts a simplified flow chart,

[0053] Fig. 13 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram, Fig. 14 schematically depicts a simplified signaling diagram,

[0054] Fig. 15A schematically depicts a simplified scenario,

[0055] Fig. 15B schematically depicts a simplified scenario,

[0056] Fig. 16A schematically depicts a simplified scenario, Fig. 16B schematically depicts a simplified scenario,

[0057] Fig. 17A schematically depicts a simplified scenario,

[0058] Fig . 17B schematically depicts a simplified scenario, Fig. 18 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram.

[0059] Description of some Example Embodiments

[0060] Some example embodiments, Fig. 1A, 2, 3, relate to an apparatus 100 (Fig. 1A) for a network device 10-1 (Fig. 2) , the apparatus 100 comprising at least one processor 102, and at least one memory 104 storing instructions 106 that, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10-1 to: determine 200 (Fig. 3) , e.g., collect, first information 1-1 characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell a (Fig. 2) or beam b serving a terminal device 20, transmit 202 the first information 1-1 to at least one further entity 10-2. In some examples, this may enable, e.g., the at least one further entity 10-2 to be aware of the coverage state, and, e.g., to take into account the coverage state, e.g., when processing information associated with a trajectory, e.g., a predicted trajectory, of, e.g., the terminal device 20.

[0061] In some examples, Fig. 2, the network device 10-1 is a network device for a wireless communication system 1000.

[0062] In some examples, Fig. 2, the wireless communication system 1000 may adhere to and / or may be based on some accepted (and / or planned) standard, such as, e.g. 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, or some other wireless communication standard.

[0063] Similarly, in some examples, the network device 10-1 may adhere to and / or may be based on some accepted (and / or planned) standard, such as, e.g. 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, or some other wireless communication standard. In some examples, this may also apply to the at least one further entity 10-2.

[0064] In some examples, Fig. 2, the network device 10-1 is a base station, e.g., NG-RAN node, e.g., gNB, for the wireless communication system 1000, e.g., a first NG-RAN node or first gNB.

[0065] In some examples, Fig. 2, the network device 10-1 may provide at least one radio cell a and / or at least one radio beam b, e.g., to serve the terminal device 20.

[0066] In some examples, Fig. 2, the at least one further entity 10- 2 may, e.g., also be a base station, e.g., NG-RAN node, e.g., gNB, for the wireless communication system, e.g., a second NG-RAN node or second gNB, e.g., a neighbor gNB of the first gNB.

[0067] In some examples, Fig. 4A, the first information 1-1 characterizes at least one of: a) at least one coverage configuration CC-CELL associated with a cell a, or b) at least one coverage configuration CC-BEAM associated with a beam b.

[0068] Fig. 15A depicts an example scenario with two NG-RAN nodes Nl, N2 providing a plurality of beams, e.g., SSB beams, bl, b2, b3 each (note that the beams of node Nl are not provided with reference signs for clarity) , e.g., for at least temporarily serving at least one terminal device UE, wherein the scenario of Fig. 15A corresponds with a first coverage configuration or state, respectively. Fig. 15B depicts a further example scenario similar to Fig. 15A, wherein, however, the beams bl, b2, b3 provided by node N2 in Fig. 15B comprise a different configuration (e.g., at least beam b2) as compared with Fig. 15A. It can be seen that, nevertheless, a trajectory TRJ-1 of the terminal device UE, e.g., moving from a first point Pl to a second point P2, is not affected by the different beam configurations as seen from a coverage configuration point of view, because along its trajectory TRJ-1, the terminal device UE is subsequently served by all three beams bl, b2, b3 in both scenarios Fig. 15A, Fig. 15B.

[0069] By contrast, in the further example scenarios of Fig. 16A, 16B, wherein the terminal device UE moves along another trajectory TRJ-2, e.g., from a third point P3 to a fourth point P4, it can be seen that Fig. 16A is associated with a first coverage configuration, as the terminal device UE is subsequently served by three beams of the first node N1 along its trajectory TRJ-2, whereas in the example scenario of Fig. 16B, a second coverage configuration is given, which is different from the first coverage configuration of Fig. 16A, because the terminal device UE is at least temporarily served by the beam b2 of the second node N2 along its trajectory TRJ-2.

[0070] In some examples, these different coverage configurations or coverage states, or corresponding information characterizing such coverage configurations or coverage states, such as, e.g., the first information 1-1 according to the disclosure, may be used, e.g., to enable at least one of the nodes Nl, N2 (or at least one further node, e.g., neighbor node (not shown) ) to get aware of the different coverage states, which, in some examples, may, e.g., be useful to increase a precision of trajectory determination, e.g., trajectory prediction. In some examples, based on the first information 1-1, at least one of the network or network devices Nl, N2 may, e.g., determine whether a difference between an observed (i.e., measured) UE trajectory and a predicted UE trajectory is a result of a prediction error or due to a change in a coverage configuration of visited cells or beams, respectively .

[0071] Similarly, e.g., in case of a split or a merge of radio cells, a recorded or predicted UE trajectory may depend on a specific coverage configuration of the cells, e.g., as well as on an active / inactive status, as illustrated by the further example scenarios of Fig. 17A, 17B. Fig. 17A schematically depicts three cells A, B, C and a trajectory TRJ-3 of the terminal device UE . Note that, in the event of a cell split, as depicted by Fig. 17B, wherein cell C of Fig. 17A is at least temporarily split into two cells Cl, C2, the same trajectory TRJ-3 of the terminal device UE may be associated with, e.g., experience, a different coverage configuration or coverage state, respectively. More specifically, the coverage conf iguration ( s ) of Fig. 17A involve the terminal device UE, while moving along its trajectory TRJ-3, to be subsequently served by the cells A, C of Fig. 17A, whereas in the scenario of Fig. 17B, the terminal device UE is, while moving along its trajectory TRJ- 3, subsequently covered by the cells A, Cl, C2. In these further examples of Fig. 17A, 17B, too, the principle according to the disclosure may be used to make aware at least one network device of the different coverage states or configurations as experienced by the terminal device UE . In some examples, this may also apply to scenarios where radio cells are merged, e.g., merging cells Cl, C2 of Fig. 17B into a single cell C (Fig. 17A) .

[0072] In some examples, Fig. 5, the instructions 106, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the, e.g., first, network device 10-1 to: receive 210 a first message MSG-1 from the at least one further entity, e.g., from the second network device 10-2, determine 212 the first information 1-1 based on, e.g., upon, receipt of the first message MSG-1.

[0073] In some examples, Fig. 2, the first message MSG-1 may, e.g., be a DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message according to some planned and / or accepted standard. In some examples, Fig. 5, the instructions 106, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10-1 to: transmit 214 the first information 1-1 to the at least one further entity 10-2 using a second message MSG-2.

[0074] In some examples, the second message MSG-2 may, e.g., be a DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message according to some planned and / or accepted standard.

[0075] In some examples, Fig. 2, the coverage state may, e.g., be added to or included in, respectively, information characterizing a measured trajectory of the terminal device 20, e.g., within the DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message MSG-2.

[0076] In some examples, Fig. 5, the instructions 106, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10-1 to: transmit 214a the first information 1-1 together with at least one of the following elements within the second message MSG-2: a) at least one measurement identifier (e.g., a, for example conventional, measurement ID, e.g., of the first network device or first NG-RAN node, respectively) , or b) at least one measured trajectory associated with the terminal device 20.

[0077] In some examples, Fig. 6, the instructions 106, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10-1 to: receive 220, e.g., from the at least one further entity 10-2, e.g., the second network device, e.g., second NG-RAN node, second information 1-2 characterizing at least one of: a) a condition (COND-1) , see Fig. 4B, for stopping a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device 20 on cell level or beam level, e.g., at the first network device 10-1, or b) a condition COND-2 (Fig. 4B) for continuing a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device 20 on cell level or beam level, e.g., at the first network device 10-1, or c) control information I-CTRL indicating a number, e.g., maximum number, of coverage states to be reported, e.g., by transmitting the first information 1-1, e.g., by the first network device 10-1, perform 222, based on the second information 1-2 at least one of: dl) at least one measurement of the trajectory TRJ-20 of the terminal device 20, or d2 ) reporting associated with at least one measurement of the trajectory TRJ-20 of the terminal device 20, or d3) stop the at least one measurement.

[0078] In some examples, Fig. 2, the second information 1-2 may, e.g., be comprised in the first message MSG-1, e.g., the first network device 10-1 may, e.g., receive the second information 1-2 within the first message MSG-1, e.g., a DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message.

[0079] In some examples, Fig. 7, the instructions 106, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10-1 to: receive 230, e.g., from the at least one further entity, e.g., the second NG-RAN node, e.g., second gNB, 10-2, third information 1-3 characterizing at least one of: a) a predicted trajectory of the terminal device 20, or b) at least one coverage state of at least one predicted cell associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device 20, e.g., at least one coverage state that is applicable for a prediction of the trajectory, or c) at least one coverage state of at least one predicted beam associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device 20, e.g., at least one coverage state that is applicable for a prediction of the trajectory.

[0080] In some examples, Fig. 7, the third information 1-3 may, e.g., be received within, e.g., as a part of, a message requesting a handover, e.g., as a part of a HANDOVER REQUEST message according to some planned and / or accepted standard. The optional block 232 of Fig. 7 symbolizes a use of the received third information 1-3 by the first network device 10-1, e.g., for a handover procedure.

[0081] Some examples, Fig. IB, relate to an apparatus 100' for a network device 10-1, the apparatus 100' comprising means 102' for: determining 200 first information 1-1 characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell a or beam b serving a terminal device 20, transmitting 202 the first information 1-1 to at least one further entity 10-2.

[0082] In some examples, Fig. IB, the means 102' for determining 200 and transmitting 200 the first information may, e.g., comprise at least one processor 102 (see, for example, Fig. 1A) , and at least one memory 104 storing instructions 106 that, when executed by the at least one processor 102, cause the network device 10-1 to perform the aforementioned aspects of determining 200 and transmitting 202 the first information 1-1.

[0083] In some examples, Fig. IB, the means 102' for determining and transmitting the first information may, e.g., comprise circuitry 104' configured to perform the aforementioned aspects of determining 200 and transmitting 202 the first information 1-1.

[0084] Some examples, Fig. 3, relate to a method for a network device 10-1, comprising: determining 200 first information I- 1 characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell a or beam b serving a terminal device 20, transmitting 202 the first information 1-1 to at least one further entity 10-2.

[0085] Some examples, Fig. 8A, relate to an apparatus 300 for a network device 10-2 (Fig. 2) , e.g., second network device, e.g., second NG-RAN node, e.g., second gNB, the apparatus 300 comprising at least one processor 302, and at least one memory 304 storing instructions 306 that, when executed by the at least one processor 302, cause the network device 10-2 to: receive 400 (Fig. 9) , e.g., from at least one further entity, e.g., the first network device 10-1, first information 1-1 characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell a or beam b serving a terminal device 20, predict 402, based at least on the first information 1-1, a trajectory TRJ-PRED of the terminal device 20 for the at least one coverage state.

[0086] In some examples, Fig. 10, the instructions 306, when executed by the at least one processor 302, cause the network device 10-2 to: use 412 at least one artificial intelligence model AI-M for the prediction 402.

[0087] In some examples, Fig. 10, the at least one artificial intelligence, Al, model AI-M may be provided locally, see the optional block 410 of Fig. 10, e.g., at or by the apparatus 300 or the network device 10-2 (Fig. 2) .

[0088] In some examples, the at least one artificial intelligence model AI-M may be provided remote to the apparatus 300 or the network device 10-2, and the network device 10-2 may, e.g., access the artificial intelligence model AI-M, e.g., to perform the prediction.

[0089] In some examples, Fig. 2, the Al model AI-M may be a machine learning, ML, model, e.g., based on an artificial, e.g., deep, neural network.

[0090] In some examples, a node or network device 10-1, 10-2 may observe UE tra ectories, e.g., for different coverage configurations. Therefore, in some examples, e.g., if sufficient information is received for each of those observed coverage states, a predicted UE trajectory, as may, e.g. be obtained by the artificial intelligence model AI-M, may include, e.g., for each visited cell or beam, a number of observed coverage configurations.

[0091] In some examples, Fig. 11, the instructions 306, when executed by the at least one processor 302, cause the network device 10-2 to perform at least one of: a) requesting 420, e.g., by using the first message MSG-1 (Fig. 2) according to some examples, measured trajectory information I-TRJ characterizing at least one trajectory of at least one terminal device 20 from at least one further entity 10-1, or b) training 424 (Fig. 11) the at least one artificial intelligence model AI-M based on the measured trajectory information I-TRJ. The optional block 422 of Fig. 11 symbolizes receiving the requested measured trajectory information I-TRJ, e.g., in the form of or as comprised in the second message MSG-2 (Fig. 2) according to some examples.

[0092] In some examples, Fig. 12, the instructions 306, when executed by the at least one processor 302, cause the network device 10-2 to: transmit 430, e.g., to the first network device 10-1, second information 1-2 (also see Fig. 4B) characterizing at least one of: a) a condition COND-1 for stopping a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device on cell level or beam level, or b) a condition COND-2 for continuing a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device on cell level or beam level, or c) control information I-CTRL indicating a number of coverage states to be reported, e.g., by the first network device 10-1.

[0093] In some examples, Fig. 12, the instructions 306, when executed by the at least one processor 302, cause the network device 10-2 to: transmit 440 third information 1-3 characterizing at least one of: a) a predicted trajectory of the terminal device, or b) a coverage state of at least one predicted cell associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device, or c) a coverage state of at least one predicted beam associated with the predicted trajectory of the terminal device.

[0094] Some examples, Fig. 8B, relate to an apparatus 300' for a network device 10-2, the apparatus 300' comprising means 302' for: receiving 400 first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device, predicting 402, based at least on the first information, a trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state.

[0095] In some examples, Fig. 8B, the means 302' for receiving 400 the first information and predicting 402, based at least on the first information, the trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state may, e.g., comprise at least one processor 302 (see, for example, Fig. 8A) , and at least one memory 304 storing instructions 306 that, when executed by the at least one processor 306, cause the network device 10-2 to perform the aforementioned aspects of receiving 400 and predicting 402.

[0096] In some examples, Fig. 8B, the means 302' for receiving 400 the first information and predicting 402, based at least on the first information, the trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state may, e.g., comprise circuitry 304' configured to perform the aforementioned aspects of receiving 400 and predicting 402.

[0097] Some examples, Fig. 9, relate to a method for a network device 10-2, comprising: receiving 400 first information characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device, predicting 402, based at least on the first information, a trajectory of the terminal device for the at least one coverage state.

[0098] Some examples, Fig. 2, relate to a network device 10-1, 10-2, e.g., an NG-RAN node, e.g., a base station, e.g., gNB, for a communication system 1000, the network device 10-1, 10-2 comprising at least one apparatus 100, 100', 300, 300' according to the disclosure.

[0099] Some examples, Fig. 2, relate to a communication system 1000 comprising at least one apparatus 100, 100', 300, 300' according to the disclosure.

[0100] In the following, further example aspects and example embodiments are disclosed, which, in some embodiments, may be combined with each other and / or with at least one of the aforementioned aspects and examples.

[0101] Fig. 13 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of an artificial intelligence model AI-M (Fig. 2) according to some examples. In some examples, the artificial intelligence model AI-M is a machine learning (ML) model configured, e.g., trainable or trained, for trajectory prediction, e.g., for predicting at least one trajectory, e.g., of the terminal device 20 (Fig. 2) .

[0102] In some examples, Fig. 13, input information I may be provided to the ML model MLM, wherein the input information may comprise at least one of: a) a cell list, or b) a beam list, or c) information characterizing a time the terminal device 20 stayed in a respective cell a or beam b (Fig. 2) , or d) information characterizing a cell coverage state, or e) information characterizing a beam coverage state, as, e.g., characterized by the first information 1-1. In some examples, Fig. 13, the ML model MLM may provide as output information 0 a predicted trajectory of the terminal device 20, e.g., for at least one, e.g., for at least some, e.g., for all, coverage states observed by the terminal device 20.

[0103] In some examples, Fig. 13, at least some of the output information 0 may be provided as feedback information FB to the ML model MLM, e.g., for training of the ML model MLM. In some examples, the feedback information FB may comprise at least one of: a) information on a measured cell, or b) information on a measured beam, or c) information characterizing the time the terminal device 20 stayed in a respective cell a or beam b, or d) information characterizing a cell coverage state, or e) information characterizing a beam coverage state, as, e.g., characterized by the first information 1-1.

[0104] In some examples, Fig. 13, a training of the ML model MLM may be performed, e.g., achieved, at and / or by the first network device, e.g., NG-RAN node, 10-1, e.g., by requesting (see, for example, block 420 of Fig. 11) a measured trajectory of the terminal device 20 from one or more (not shown) further entities, e.g., further network device, such as, e.g., the second network device, e.g., NG-RAN node, 10-2. In other words, in some examples, Fig. 13, the feedback information FB may comprise information of measured trajectories of the terminal device 20 as may, e.g., be obtained by the first network device 10-1, e.g., from one or more other network devices 10-2, ....

[0105] In some examples, one or more of the other network devices 10-2, ... may, e.g., observe trajectories of a respective terminal device 20, e.g., "UE trajectories", e.g., for different coverage configurations, as, e.g., characterized by the different coverage states. In some examples, on this basis, one or more UE trajectories may be predicted, e.g., taking into account the different coverage configurations or coverage states.

[0106] Fig. 14 schematically depicts a simplified procedure associated with reporting a measured UE trajectory according to some examples. In Fig. 14, element El symbolizes a first NG-RAN, e.g., at least similar to the first network device 10-1 of Fig. 2, element E2 symbolizes a second, e.g., neighbor, NG-RAN, e.g., at least similar to the second network device 10-2 of Fig. 2, and element E3 symbolizes a terminal device, e.g., user equipment (UE) , e.g., at least similar to the terminal device 20 of Fig. 2.

[0107] Element E4 symbolizes an ML model, e.g., at least similar to block MLM of Fig. 13, for trajectory prediction of UE tra j ectories .

[0108] Arrow al symbolizes a DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message, e.g., comprising at least one of: a) a measurement ID of the first NG-RAN node El, or b) a request to provide measured UE trajectories, or c) exiting condition configuration information, which, in some examples, may, e.g., be at least similar to the second information 1-2.

[0109] Arrow a2 symbolizes a DATA COLLECTION RESPONSE message, e.g., comprising at least one of: a) a measurement ID of the second NG-RAN node E2, or b) optional information characterizing failed reporting characteristics to inform about failure in E2 to initiate the measurement requested by El.

[0110] Element E5 of Fig. 14 symbolizes the second NG-RAN node E2 starting to prepare one or more UE trajectory measurements, e.g., for the UE E3. Arrow a3 symbolizes a handover trigger associated with elements El, E3.

[0111] Arrow a4 symbolizes a HANDOVER REQUEST message, which may, e.g., comprise a measurement ID associated with the ML model E4 (e.g., "ML measurement ID") . In some examples, the "ML measurement ID" may, e.g., comprise at least one of: a) a measurement ID of the first NG-RAN node El, or b) a measurement ID of the second NG-RAN node E2, or c) at least one predicted trajectory of the UE E3, e.g., including coverage state information taken into account when the prediction was made.

[0112] Element E6 of Fig. 14 symbolizes a successful Handover Completion .

[0113] Element E7 symbolizes a determination whether exiting conditions for a UE trajectory measurement, e.g., logging, are detected. If not, the procedure continues with a determination E8 whether a cell change or beam change is detected. If not, the procedure continues with a determination E9 whether a change of at least one of a) a cell coverage state, or b) a beam coverage state is detected. If not, in some examples, the procedure returns to element E7, see arrow a6.

[0114] In some examples, Fig. 14, if, according to element E7, one or more exiting conditions (e.g., at least one of time duration expiry, or idle, or inactive) for the UE trajectory measurement, e.g., logging, are detected, in element E10, information characterizing the measured UE trajectory may be extended, e.g., by adding a respective coverage state. In other words, in some examples, the measured UE trajectory, as may, e.g., be provided or processed by element E10, may comprise at least one of the following elements: a) a cell or beam the UE was connected to, or b) a time the UE stayed in the cell or beam, or c) a respective coverage state associated with the cell or beam the UE was connected to.

[0115] In some examples, Fig. 14, if, according to element E8, a cell change or beam change is detected, in element Ell, information characterizing the measured UE trajectory may be extended, e.g., by adding a respective coverage state, e.g., at least similar to element E10. In other words, in some examples, the measured UE trajectory, as may, e.g., be provided or processed by element Ell, may comprise at least one of the following elements: a) a cell or beam the UE was connected to, or b) a time the UE stayed in the cell or beam, or c) a respective coverage state associated with the cell or beam the UE was connected to. In some examples, after block Ell, the procedure may continue with, e.g., return to, element E7.

[0116] In some examples, Fig. 14, if, according to element E9, a change of at least one of a) a cell coverage state, or b) a beam coverage state is detected, in element E12, information characterizing the measured UE trajectory may be extended, e.g., by adding a respective coverage state that was observed before the detection of the change of the cell or beam coverage state. In other words, in some examples, the measured UE trajectory, as may, e.g., be provided or processed by element E12, may comprise at least one of the following elements: a) a cell or beam the UE was connected to, or b) a time the UE stayed in the cell or beam, or c) a respective coverage state associated with the cell or beam the UE was connected to, or d) a respective coverage state that was observed before the detection E9 of the change of the cell or beam coverage state. In some examples, after block Ell, the procedure may continue with, e.g., return to, element E7.

[0117] Arrow a6 of Fig. 14 symbolizes a DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message, e.g., comprising at least one of: a) a measurement ID of the first NG-RAN node El, or b) a measurement ID of the second NG-RAN node E2, or c) a measured UE trajectory of the UE E3, e.g., comprising respective coverage state information, as may, in some examples, have been added according to at least one of the elements or blocks E10, Ell, E12.

[0118] Element E13 of Fig. 14 symbolizes a performance evaluation of the ML model E4 according to some examples, e.g., based at least on the information received within the DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message a6.

[0119] In some examples, the principle according to the disclosure enables to provide a signaling option to enable CCO-based UE trajectory prediction.

[0120] In some examples, a conventional approach as, e.g., disclosed in 3GPP TS 38.423 Figure 8.4.14.2-1 may be extended based on the principle according to the disclosure, e.g., according to the example of Fig. 14, i.e., comprising a signaling or reporting of coverage state information, e.g., as provided for by at least one of the blocks or elements E10, Ell, E12 of Fig . 14.

[0121] In some examples, it is proposed that exiting conditions for UE trajectory logging are provided or enhanced as follows. In other words, in some examples, one or more of the following elements may be used as exiting condition, e.g., for UE trajectory logging: a) expiry of collection time duration, or b) number of requested visited cells reached, or c) inter- node handover, or d) UE transits to RRC idle or RRC inactive state, or e) coverage state change in visited cell / beam.

[0122] In some examples, the principle according to the disclosure enables to at least temporarily mitigate or solve at least one of the following aspects Al, A2.

[0123] Aspect Al: In some conventional approaches, it may not be possible for a network or network device to determine whether a difference between an observed (i.e., measured) UE trajectory and a predicted UE trajectory is a result of a prediction error or due to a change in a coverage configuration of visited cells.

[0124] Aspect A2 : In some approaches, training of an AI / ML model for UE trajectory prediction may require collection of data with observation of one or more actual UE trajectories. In some examples, e.g., if data is collected with a cell or beam level, e.g., SSB beam level, precision, UE trajectories may be observed for different applicable coverage states for the visited cells and beams. Thus, in some examples, there may therefore be a need to control, e.g., optimize, a duration and / or number of signalling transactions used, e.g., required, e.g., for model convergence and hence also optimize the energy cost for training such AI / ML model.

[0125] In some examples, e.g., in order to address aspect Al, it is proposed to introduce, e.g., add, the coverage state (e.g., for at least one of cell or beam) , e.g., into UE trajectory information, e.g., as may be reported by an NG-RAN node 10-1 (Fig. 2) .

[0126] In some examples, e.g., if reported information is a measured (e.g., actual) UE trajectory, the coverage state of at least one, e.g., each, observed cell or beam may be included, e.g., in the reported UE trajectory. In some examples, the NG-RAN node 10-2 receiving this information may then be aware of the cell's or beam's coverage state and take this information into account, e.g. to determine a validity of UE trajectory predictions, e.g., for given coverage states.

[0127] In some examples, e.g., if the reported information is a predicted UE trajectory (e.g., using the ML model MLM) , the predicted UE trajectory may comprise at least one of: a) predicted cell (or beam within a cell) , or b) a time the UE will stay in cell (or in a beam) , or c) one or more coverage states, e.g., applicable, for the prediction (e.g., celllevel or beam-level accordingly) , e.g., organized in form of a list.

[0128] In some examples, e.g., to address aspect A2, the first NG- RAN node 10-1 may control how a measured UE trajectory is recorded, e.g. in, e.g., by, the second NG-RAN node 10-2. In some examples, at least two operation modes may be considered, which are associated with, e.g., characterized by, applicable exiting conditions that may, e.g., affect a data collection process.

[0129] In some examples, in a first operation mode, e.g., "Operation mode 1" a measured UE trajectory collection may end in case of a coverage state change in a visited cell or beam. In some examples, this may be an efficient way, e.g., to avoid recording mobility triggered by coverage state change and not by UE movement .

[0130] In some examples, in a second operation mode, e.g., "Operation mode 2", a measured UE trajectory collection may continue, e.g., in case of coverage state change in a visited cell or beam. In some examples, in this mode, a maximum of information may be collected, e.g., per UE . In some examples, "Operation mode 1" may use a, for example new, exiting condition, e.g., a, for example new, coverage state change in visited cell / beam, while "Operation mode 2" may not use this, e.g., new, exiting condition. Thus, in some examples, the exiting condition characterized by a, for example new, coverage state change in visited cell / beam may be configurable. As an example, such configuration of the exiting condition may, e.g., be performed using the DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message al of Fig. 14.

[0131] In some examples, e.g., for "Operation mode 2", e.g., in order to enable the first NG-RAN node 10-1, El to better control a quantity of received data associated with trajectory measurements, it may be provided that it is configurable, e.g., in the DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message al (Fig. 14) (see, for example, also the first message MSG-1 of Fig. 2, 5) , whether one or multiple coverage states may be included per visited cell. In some examples, the configuration of how many coverage states may be included, e.g., per visited cell, may, e.g., be realized using the control information I-CTRL mentioned above with reference to Fig. 6.

[0132] In some examples, e.g., depending on the needs of AI / ML algorithms running, e.g., in the NG-RAN node El (Fig. 14) , one or more of the following configuration options may be used : a) report single coverage state upon cell or SSB entry: in some examples, this option may be chosen, e.g., to provide information about coverage conditions that were applicable when the UE entered the cell or SSB beam, or b) report single coverage state upon cell or SSB exit: in some examples, this option may be chosen, e.g., to provide information about coverage conditions that were applicable when the UE left the cell or SSB beam, or c) report multiple coverage states: In some examples, with this option, the first NG-RAN node El may receive and may take into account information about multiple, e.g., all, successive coverage states that were applied for the time duration the cell / beam served the UE .

[0133] In some examples, it is proposed to associate each cell, e.g., NR cell (and / or beam) reported for measured UE trajectory (which in some examples may, e.g., be used for model training of the Al model AI-M, e.g., MLM) with a list of coverage configuration indices. In some examples, this enables to provide the first information 1-1 in the sense of the disclosure, e.g., characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell or beam serving a terminal device.

[0134] In the following, non-limiting examples of providing and / or using information elements are provided which may be used to implement the principle according to the disclosure, e.g., by extending one or more existing information elements or groups of information elements, as, e.g., provided by some planned and / or accepted standard.

[0135] More specifically, in the following, an example of a stage 3 impact in 3GPP Rel-18 UE History information (tabular implementation) according to some examples is provided. Note that, in some examples, at least one of the following information elements may be provided in the UE History information, e.g., to reflect aspects according to the disclosure, e.g., related to providing information related to a coverage state: a) Cell Coverage State List, or b) Cell Coverage State Item, or c) Cell Coverage State. In some examples, a range bound, e.g.,

[0136] "maxnoof CellCovStates " , may be provided or used, which characterizes a maximum number of cell coverage states (e.g., to be reported) . In some examples, the value of "maxnoof CellCovStates " may, e.g., be 63.

[0137] In some examples, a range bound, e.g., "maxnoof SSBCovStates " may be provided or used, which characterizes a maximum number of SSB coverage states or beam coverage states. In some examples, the value of "maxnoof SSBCovStates " may, e.g., be 15.

[0138] Example amendment of TS 38.413 clause 9.3.1.97 according to some examples:

[0139] TS 38.413 clause 9.3.1.97 Last Visited NG-RAN Cell Information

[0140] This IE contains information about a cell. In case of NR cell, this IE contains information about a set of NR cells with the same NR ARFCN for reference point A, and the Global Cell ID IE identifies one of the NR cells in the set. The information is to be used for RRM purposes.

[0141]

[0142] Example amendment of TS 38.413 clause 9.3.1.235 according to some examples :

[0143] TS 38.413 clause 9.3.1.235 Last Visited PSCell Information

[0144] The Last Visited PSCell Information may contain cell specific information.

[0145]

[0146] Example of stage 3 impact in Measured UE traj ectory information ( tabular implementation) : TS 38.423 clause 9.2.3.183 Measured Trajectory Cell Information

[0147] The Measured Trajectory Cell Information contains the cell IDs of the NG-RAN cells where a UE connected after being handed over to the target NG-RAN node.

[0148]

[0149] Example of stage 3 impact in Measured UE traj ectory information to include both cell and beam coverages state ( tabular implementation) :

[0150] TS 38.423 clause 9.2.3.183 Measured Trajectory Cell Information

[0151] The Measured Trajectory Cell Information contains the cell IDs and SSB IDs of the NG-RAN cells where a UE connected after being handed over to the target NG-RAN node.

[0152] Example of stage 3 impact in Predicted UE traj ectory information ( tabular implementation) :

[0153] TS 38.423 clause 9.2.3.181 Predicted Trajectory Cell Information

[0154] The Predicted Trajectory Cell Information IE contains the IDs of the predicted NG-RAN cells and beams for cell based UE trajectory prediction.

[0155]

[0156] In the following, non-limiting examples of providing and / or using information elements related to at least one exiting condition are provided which may be used to implement the principle according to the disclosure, e.g., by extending one or more existing information elements or groups of information elements, as, e.g., provided by some planned and / or accepted standard.

[0157] More specifically, in the following, an example of a new exiting condition for UE trajectory logging according to some examples is provided. In some examples, an existing text of a planned and / or accepted standard may, e.g., be extended by adding the following information, e.g., for taking into account at least some aspects according to the disclosure: "If the UE Trajectory Collection Configuration IE is present in the DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message and includes the Exiting Condition Coverage State Change IE, NG-RAN node2 shall also terminate the collection when at least one of the following conditions is ful filled : - the SSB Coverage State of the PCell serving the UE changes ; - the Cell Coverage State of the SSB area within the PCell serving the UE changes . "

[0158] Example of impact in procedural text for XnAP Data Collection Initiation, according to some examples :

[0159] If the UE Trajectory Collection Configuration IE is present in the DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message, the NG-RAN node2 shall take it into account for the configuration of UE trajectory collection and reporting. NG-RAN node2 shall report the UE trajectory only once. NG- RAN node2 shall terminate the collection when at least one of the following conditions is fulfilled:

[0160] - the time since UE was successfully handed over to NG-RAN node2 is equal to the value of the Collection Time Duration IE;

[0161] - the number of visited cells within NG-RAN node2 is equal to the value of the Number of Visited Cells IE, if included;

[0162] - UE moves to RRC INACTIVE or RRC IDLE state;

[0163] - UE is handed over to a cell belonging to an NG-RAN node different from NG-RAN node2.

[0164] If the UE Trajectory Collection Configuration IE is present in the DATA COLLECTION REQUEST message and includes the Exiting Condition Coverage State Change IE, NG-RAN node2 shall also terminate the collection when at least one of the following conditions is fulfilled:

[0165] - the SSB Coverage State of the PCell serving the UE changes;

[0166] - the Cell Coverage State of the SSB area within the PCell serving the UE changes.

[0167] The result of the UE trajectory collection is reported at the next available DATA COLLECTION UPDATE message.

[0168] Example of impact in XnAP tabular description, according to some examples :

[0169] TS 38.423 clause 9.2.3.185 UE Trajectory Collection Configuration

[0170] This IE contains additional conditions triggering the target node to report UE Trajectory after successful handover.

[0171] In other words, in some examples, an information element named "Exiting Condition Coverage State Change" may be provided, e.g. , of the ENUM type. In some examples, further configuration, e.g. , for UE trajectory logging according to some examples may be provided as follows :

[0172] Example of impact in XnAP tabular description:

[0173] TS 38.423 clause 9.2.3.185 UE Trajectory Collection Configuration

[0174] This IE contains additional conditions triggering the target node to report UE Trajectory after successful handover.

[0175]

[0176] In other words, in some examples, at least one of the following information elements may be provided, e.g., added to an existing information element group: a) CHOICE Coverage State Change Reporting, or b) report single coverage state upon cell or SSB entry, or c) report single coverage state upon cell or SSB exit, or d) report multiple coverage states. Some examples, Fig. 18, relate to a computer program PRG comprising instructions INSTR which, when executed by an apparatus 100, 100', 300, 300' or processor 102, 302, cause the apparatus or processor 102, 302 to perform the method according to the disclosure.

[0177] Some examples, Fig. 18, relate to a computer-readable storage medium SM, for example a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium SM, comprising the computer program PRG according to the disclosure. Some examples, Fig. 18, relate to a data carrier signal DCS carrying and / or characterizing the computer program PRG according to the disclosure.

Claims

Claims1. An apparatus (100) for a network device (10-1) , the apparatus (100) comprising at least one processor (102) , and at least one memory (104) storing instructions (106) that, when executed by the at least one processor (102) , cause the network device (10-1) to: determine (200) first information (1-1) characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell (a) or beam (b) serving a terminal device (20) , transmit (202) the first information (1-1) to at least one further entity (10-2) .

2. The apparatus (100) according to claim 1, wherein the first information (1-1) characterizes at least one of: a) at least one coverage configuration associated with a cell (a) , or b) at least one coverage configuration associated with a beam (b) .

3. The apparatus (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the instructions (106) , when executed by the at least one processor (102) , cause the network device (10-1) to: receive (210) a first message (MSG-1) from the at least one further entity (10-2) , determine (212) the first information (1-1) based on receipt of the first message (MSG-1) .

4. The apparatus (100) according to claim 3, wherein the instructions (106) , when executed by the at least one processor (102) , cause the network device (10-1) to: transmit (214) the first information (1-1) to the at least one further entity (10-2) using a second message (MSG-2) .

5. The apparatus (100) according to claim 4, wherein the instructions (106) , when executed by the at least one processor (102) , cause the network device (10-1) to: transmit (214a) the first information (1-1) together with at least one of the following elements within the second message (MSG-2) : a) at least one measurement identifier, or b) at least one measured trajectory associated with the terminal device (20) .

6. The apparatus (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the instructions (106) , when executed by the at least one processor (102) , cause the network device (10-1) to: receive (220) second information (1-2) characterizing at least one of: a) a condition (COND-1) for stopping a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device (20) on cell level or beam level, or b) a condition (COND-2) for continuing a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device (20) on cell level or beam level, or c) control information (I-CTRL) indicating a number of coverage states to be reported, perform (222) , based on the second information (1-2) at least one of: dl) at least one measurement of the trajectory of the terminal device (20) , or d2 ) reporting associated with at least one measurement of the trajectory of the terminal device (20) , or d3) stop the at least one measurement.

7. The apparatus (100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the instructions (106) , when executed by the at least one processor (102) , cause the network device (10-1) to: receive (230) third information (1-3) characterizing at least one of: a) a predicted trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) , or b) at least one coverage state of at least one predictedcell associated with the predicted trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) , or c) at least one coverage state of at least one predicted beam associated with the predicted trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device(20) .

8. An apparatus (100' ) for a network device (10-1) , the apparatus (100' ) comprising means (102' ) for: determining (200) first information (1-1) characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell (a) or beam (b) serving a terminal device (20) , transmitting (202) the first information (1-1) to at least one further entity (10-2) .

9. A method for a network device (10-1) , comprising: determining (200) first information (1-1) characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell (a) or beam (b) serving a terminal device (20) , transmitting (202) the first information (1-1) to at least one further entity (10-2) .

10. An apparatus (300) for a network device (10-2) , the apparatus (300) comprising at least one processor (302) , and at least one memory (304) storing instructions (306) that, when executed by the at least one processor (302) , cause the network device (10-2) to: receive (400) first information (1-1) characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell (a) or beam (b) serving a terminal device (20) , predict (402) , based at least on the first information (I— 1) , a trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) for the at least one coverage state .

11. The apparatus (300) of claim 10, wherein the instructions (306) , when executed by the at least oneprocessor (302) , cause the network device (10-2) to: use (412) at least one artificial intelligence model (AI-M) for the prediction (402) .

12. The apparatus (300) according to claim 11, wherein the instructions (306) , when executed by the at least one processor (302) , cause the network device (10-2) to perform at least one of: a) requesting (420) measured trajectory information (I-TRJ) for the terminal device characterizing at least one trajectory of the terminal device (20) from at least one further entity (10-1) , or b) training (424) the at least one artificial intelligence model (AI-M) based on the measured trajectory information (I-TRJ) .

13. The apparatus (300) according to any of the claims 10 to 12, wherein the instructions (306) , when executed by the at least one processor (302) , cause the network device (10-2) to: transmit (430) second information (I- 2) characterizing at least one of: a) a condition (COND- 1) for stopping a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device (20) on cell level or beam level, or b) a condition (COND-2) for continuing a measurement of a trajectory of the terminal device (20) on cell level or beam level, or c) control information (I-CTRL) indicating a number of coverage states to be reported.

14. The apparatus (300) according to any of the claims 10 to 13, wherein the instructions (306) , when executed by the at least one processor (302) , cause the network device (10-2) to: transmit (440) third information (1-3) characterizing at least one of: a) a predicted trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) , or b) a coverage state of at least one predicted cell associated with the predicted trajectory (TRJ-PRED) ofthe terminal device (20) , or c) a coverage state of at least one predicted beam associated with the predicted trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) .

15. An apparatus (300' ) for a network device (10-2) , the apparatus (300' ) comprising means (302' ) for: receiving (400) first information (1-1) characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell (a) or beam (b) serving a terminal device (20) , predicting(402) , based at least on the first information (I— 1) , a trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) for the at least one coverage state.

16. A method for a network device (10-2) , comprising: receiving (400) first information (1-1) characterizing at least one coverage state of at least one cell (a) or beam (b) serving a terminal device (20) , predicting(402) , based at least on the first information (I— 1) , a trajectory (TRJ-PRED) of the terminal device (20) for the at least one coverage state.

17. A network device (10-1; 10-2; El; E2) for a communication system (1000) , comprising at least one apparatus (100; 100' ; 300; 300' ) according to at least one of the claims 1 to 8 or 10 to 15.

18. A communication system (1000) comprising at least one apparatus (100; 100' ; 300; 300' ) according to at least one of the claims 1 to 8 or 10 to 15.

Images