Communication method and communication apparatus

Abstract

A communication method and a communication apparatus. In the method, a first network element determines, on the basis of a repair policy from a second network element, a repair mode of a network issue detected when the first network element runs an automation function example. The repair mode comprises an automatic repair mode and a manual repair mode. The first network element can repair the detected network issue on the basis of the corresponding repair mode. Compared with a first network element reporting to a second network element all network issues detected when the first network element runs an automation function example, the above-described method can support the first network element in automatically repairing a network issue that can be repaired in an automatic repair mode, and only reporting to the second network element a network issue for which a manual repair mode is used. In this way, the first network element can be supported in more promptly repairing a network issue, thereby improving the running efficiency of an automation function example in a running process.

Description

Communication methods and communication devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410994256.2, filed on July 22, 2024, entitled "Communication Method and Communication Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Technology

[0003] Wireless networks have evolved to the fifth generation (5G). th With the advent of 5G mobile communication technology, wireless network architecture has become more flexible, and users' demands for key performance indicators (KPIs) such as network latency, speed, and connection scale are constantly increasing. All of these factors have increased the difficulty of operating and maintaining wireless networks.

[0004] To improve the operational efficiency of wireless networks, automated functions (such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and big data analytics) can be introduced. For example, in a wireless network, automated functions can automatically perform tasks such as sensing (collecting data), analysis (performing performance analysis based on the collected data and obtaining analysis results), decision-making (determining network optimization schemes based on the analysis results), and execution (implementing the network optimization schemes).

[0005] However, the operational efficiency of automated function examples is susceptible to human intervention (e.g., operator maintenance personnel needing to determine whether to repair network problems detected while running automated function examples). Therefore, improving the operational efficiency of automated function examples is a pressing technical problem that needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method and a communication device that can support improving the operating efficiency of automated function examples during operation.

[0007] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: receiving first information from a second network element, the first information being used to configure a repair strategy, the repair strategy being used to indicate at least one of a network problem using an automatic repair method and a network problem using a manual repair method; and when an automated function example detects a first network problem, determining a repair method for the first network problem according to the repair strategy.

[0008] The technical solution described in the first aspect can be executed by a device on the first network element side. The device on the first network element side can be the first network element, a module (such as a chip system) within the first network element, or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. For ease of description, the first network element will be used as an example in the following description.

[0009] In the above scheme, the second network element classifies the network problems detected by the first network element when running the automated function example into two categories: one category is network problems that can be repaired automatically, and the other category is network problems that can be repaired manually. The second network element then configures the aforementioned repair strategy to the first network element. The first network element can then determine the corresponding repair method for the network problems detected when running the automated function example based on this repair strategy.

[0010] Compared to the existing scheme where the first network element reports all network problems detected by the second network element when running the automated function example, the above scheme can support the first network element to automatically repair network problems that can be repaired automatically, and only report network problems that can be repaired manually to the second network element. In this way, the first network element can repair network problems more promptly, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the automated function example during operation.

[0011] In the first aspect, the method further includes: determining, based on information about the first network problem and information about network problems using an automatic repair method, that the repair method for the first network problem is an automatic repair method; and repairing the first network problem.

[0012] In this way, the first network element can automatically repair network problems using the automatic repair method, thereby enabling timely repair of network problems.

[0013] In the first aspect, the method further includes: determining, based on information about the first network problem and information about network problems requiring manual repair, that the repair method for the first network problem is manual repair; sending second information to a second network element, the second information being used to request repair of the first network problem; receiving third information from the second network element, the third information being used to instruct repair of the first network problem; and repairing the first network problem based on the third information. The second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first network problem, a type of the first network problem, an area where the first network problem occurs, or the time when the first network problem occurs.

[0014] In this way, the first network element can report network problems that require manual repair to the second network element, and can determine whether to repair the first network problem based on the instructions of the second network element, thereby enabling the reduction of the operating power consumption of the first network element. For example, the first network element may not repair network problems that do not actually need to be repaired.

[0015] In the first aspect, the method further includes: sending a network problem report of the automated function instance to the second network element, the network problem report including at least one of a network problem information list and network problem statistics.

[0016] This allows the second network element to evaluate the performance of the example of the automation function.

[0017] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided, comprising: determining first information, the first information being used to configure a repair strategy, the repair strategy being used to indicate at least one of network problems using an automatic repair method and network problems using a manual repair method; and sending the first information to a first network element, the first information being used by the first network element to determine a repair method for a first network problem detected when running an automated function example.

[0018] The technical solution described in the second aspect can be executed by a device on the second network element side. This device can be the second network element itself, a module within the second network element (such as a chip system), or a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the second network element as an example.

[0019] In the above scheme, the second network element categorizes network problems detected by the first network element during the operation of the automated function example into two types: one type is network problems that can be automatically repaired, and the other type is network problems that can be manually repaired. The second network element then configures the aforementioned repair strategy to the first network element. This allows the first network element to automatically repair some of the network problems detected during the operation of the automated function example, and reduces the number of detected network problems reported to the second network element, thereby improving the operational efficiency of the automated function example.

[0020] In a second aspect, the method further includes: receiving second information from a first network element, the second information being used to request repair of a first network problem; and sending third information to a management function network element, the third information being used to instruct repair of the first network problem. The second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the first network problem, a type of the first network problem, an area where the first network problem occurs, or the time when the first network problem occurs.

[0021] In this way, the second network element can determine whether to repair the network problem based on the network problem reported by the first network element using the manual repair method, and can send a corresponding instruction to the first network element. The first network element can then determine whether to repair the network problem based on the instruction, thereby enabling the reduction of the operating power consumption of the first network element. For example, when the second network element instructs not to repair the network problem, the first network element will not repair the network problem, thereby reducing the operating power consumption of the first network element.

[0022] In the second aspect, the method further includes: receiving a network problem report from the first network element of the automated function instance, the network problem report including at least one of a network problem information list and network problem statistics.

[0023] In this way, the second network element can evaluate the performance of the automation function example based on the network problem report of the automation function example.

[0024] In combination with either the first aspect or the second aspect, the remediation strategy includes at least one of the following: information on network problems using an automatic remediation method, or information on network problems using a manual remediation method.

[0025] In this way, the first network element can determine whether a network problem requires automatic repair or manual repair based on the above information, and then determine the corresponding repair method.

[0026] In conjunction with either the first or the second aspect, the information for network problems that are addressed using an automatic repair method includes at least one of the following: (network problem) type, (network problem) location, or (network problem) time of occurrence.

[0027] In this way, the first network element can determine the network problem that requires automatic repair based on the information of the network problem that requires automatic repair, and can automatically repair the network problem that requires automatic repair, which can enhance the operating efficiency of the automation function example during operation.

[0028] In conjunction with either the first or the second aspect, information on network problems addressed through manual repair includes at least one of the following: (network problem) type, (network problem) location, or (network problem) time of occurrence.

[0029] In this way, the first network element can determine the network problems that can be repaired manually based on the information of the network problems that require manual repair.

[0030] In conjunction with either the first or the second aspect, the types of (network problems) include at least one of the following: coverage-related (network problems), user experience-related (network problems), capacity-related (network problems), energy-saving (network problems), or fault-related (network problems).

[0031] In conjunction with either the first or second aspect, the network problem report also includes information on the network problem handling time.

[0032] In this way, the second network element can evaluate the performance of the automated function example during runtime based on the network problem processing time information. For example, the second network element can determine whether the automated function example can quickly detect and repair the network problem based on the time difference between the automated function example detecting the network problem and the automated function example repairing the network problem.

[0033] In conjunction with either the first or the second aspect, the network problem report also includes an identifier of the instance of the automation function.

[0034] Combining either the first or the second aspect, the network problem statistics include at least one of the following: the number of network problems detected, the number of network problems successfully repaired, the number of network problems that failed to be repaired, the number of network problems that were automatically repaired, or the number of network problems that were manually repaired.

[0035] Combining either the first or the second aspect, the network problem information list includes: (network problem) identifier, (network problem) processing status, or (network problem) repair result.

[0036] In this way, the second network element obtains more detailed information about network problems, and is thus able to evaluate the performance of the automated function example.

[0037] Combining either the first aspect or the second aspect, all network problems counted in the network problem statistics are of the first type, or all network problems counted in the network problem statistics occur in the first region.

[0038] In this way, the second network element can evaluate the performance of the automated function example in a specific region or under a specific type.

[0039] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, which can be a network management function network element, or a device or module used to perform the functions of a network management function network element.

[0040] One possible implementation is that the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0041] For example, the communication device includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit.

[0042] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, which may be a management function network element, or a device or module for performing management function network element functions, etc.

[0043] One possible implementation is that the communication device may include modules or units corresponding to the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the second aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0044] For example, the communication device includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit.

[0045] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor configured to, by executing a computer program or instructions, or by logic circuitry, cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect and any possible manner of the first aspect; or to cause the communication device to perform the method described in the second aspect and any possible manner of the second aspect.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the communication device also includes a memory for storing the computer program or instructions.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the communication device also includes a communication interface for inputting and / or outputting signals.

[0048] A sixth aspect provides a communication device including logic circuitry and an input / output interface for inputting and / or outputting signals, the logic circuitry being configured to perform the method described in the first aspect and any possible mode of the first aspect; or, the logic circuitry being configured to perform the method described in the second aspect and any possible mode of the second aspect.

[0049] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program or instructions are stored, which, when executed on a computer, cause the method described in the first aspect and any possible manner of the first aspect to be performed; or cause the method described in the second aspect and any possible manner of the second aspect to be performed.

[0050] Eighthly, a computer program product is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method described in the first aspect and any possible mode of the first aspect to be performed; or cause the method described in the second aspect and any possible mode of the second aspect to be performed.

[0051] A ninth aspect provides a chip or chip system comprising: one or more processors configured to execute computer programs or instructions in the memory, such that the chip or chip system implements the methods of the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof; or, such that the chip or chip system implements the methods of the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0052] In a tenth aspect, a chip is provided, which is installed in a communication device. The chip includes a processor and a communication interface. The processor reads and executes instructions through the communication interface, causing the communication device to perform a method as described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof, or to perform a method as described in the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0053] Eleventhly, a communication system is provided, including a network management function element and a management function element. The network management function element is used to execute the methods of the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof, and the management function element is used to execute the methods of the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0054] For a description of the beneficial effects of any of the third to eleventh aspects, please refer to the description of the beneficial effects of the first and second aspects, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0055] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the management service architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0056] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the communication system according to an embodiment of this application.

[0057] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application.

[0058] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of an embodiment of this application.

[0059] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0060] Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0061] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following points will be explained first.

[0062] 1. Unless otherwise stated, "multiple" means two or more. "At least one" means one or more.

[0063] 2. Unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions in different embodiments of this application are consistent and can be referenced in each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0064] III. The various numerical designations used in this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. The magnitude of the serial numbers used in this application does not imply a sequential order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic. For example, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," and other various terminology (if present) in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. Such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments described herein can be implemented in a sequence other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0065] Furthermore, any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner for ease of understanding.

[0066] IV. The terms “comprising” and “having” and any variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, for example, a process, method, system, product or device that includes a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units that are expressly listed, but may include other steps or units that are not expressly listed or that are inherent to such process, method, product or device.

[0067] V. In the embodiments of this application, "used for indication" can be understood as "enabling". "Enabling" includes direct enabling and indirect enabling. When describing information used to enable A, it may include the information directly enabling A or indirectly enabling A, but does not necessarily mean that the information carries A.

[0068] The information that enables the information is called the information to be enabled. In the specific implementation process, there are many ways to enable the information to be enabled, such as, but not limited to, directly enabling the information to be enabled, such as the information to be enabled itself or its index. It can also be indirectly enabled by enabling other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be enabled. It can also enable only a part of the information to be enabled, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, enabling specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing enabling overhead to some extent. Simultaneously, common parts of various pieces of information can be identified and enabled uniformly to reduce the enabling overhead caused by individually enabling the same information.

[0069] In addition, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information to indicate A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A.

[0070] In this embodiment, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementations, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a correlation between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. Furthermore, the information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces, and the sending period and / or timing of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different.

[0071] VI. In the embodiments of this application, "pre-configuration" may include pre-defined features, such as protocol definitions. The "pre-defined features" can be implemented by pre-storing corresponding codes, tables, or other means of indicating relevant information in the device (e.g., including various network elements). This application does not limit the specific implementation method.

[0072] VII. The term "storage" or "preservation" in the embodiments of this application can refer to storage in one or more memory devices. These memory devices can be separately configured or integrated into an encoder, decoder, processor, or communication device. Alternatively, some memory devices can be separately configured, while others can be integrated into a decoder, processor, or communication device. The type of memory can be any form of storage medium, and this is not limited.

[0073] 8. The "protocol" involved in the embodiments of this application may refer to standard protocols in the field of communication, for example, it may include fourth-generation (4G) protocols. th This application does not limit the scope to 4G networks, 5G network protocols, 5.5G network protocols, or related protocols used in future communication networks.

[0074] 9. The arrows or boxes indicated by dashed lines in the schematic diagrams in the accompanying drawings of this application represent optional steps or optional modules.

[0075] 10. Unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can mean A or B. In this application, "and / or" is merely a description of the relationship between the related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. A and B can be singular or plural.

[0076] XI. In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission by other units or modules via the air interface. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY by other units or modules via the air interface. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between the first network element and the second network element, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0077] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the management service architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the management service architecture includes, but is not limited to: business operation functions, cross-domain management functions, domain management functions (e.g., domain management function 1 and domain management function 2), and network elements (e.g., network element 11, network element 12, network element 21, and network element 22). Specifically, the business operation functions can manage the cross-domain management functions, the cross-domain management functions can manage domain management functions 1 and 2, domain management function 1 can manage network element 11 and network element 12, and domain management function 2 can manage network element 21 and network element 22.

[0078] Business operation function can also be replaced by terms such as communication service management function (CSMF), operator operation system, or vertical operational technology system, and can be used to provide at least one of the following management functions or services:

[0079] Billing, settlement, accounting, customer service, sales, network monitoring, communication service lifecycle management, or translation of business intent, etc.

[0080] Cross-domain management function can also be replaced by network management function (NMF), network slice management function (NSMF), management data analytical function (MDAF), cross-domain self-organization network function (SON-function), or cross-domain intent management function, etc., and can be used to provide at least one of the following management functions or management services:

[0081] Network lifecycle management, network deployment, network fault management, network performance management, network configuration management, network assurance, network optimization functions, translation of network intents from communication service providers (intent-CSP) or network intents from communication service consumers (intent-CSC), etc.

[0082] The aforementioned network may include one or more network elements, subnetworks, or network slices.

[0083] In some scenarios, cross-domain management functionality can also be used to provide at least one of the following management functions or services:

[0084] Subnetwork lifecycle management, subnetwork deployment, subnetwork fault management, subnetwork performance management, subnetwork configuration management, subnetwork assurance, subnetwork optimization functions, subnetwork intent translation for communication service providers or subnetwork intent translation for communication service users, etc.

[0085] The aforementioned subnetworks can be composed of multiple smaller subnetworks or multiple network slice subnetworks, and there is no limitation on this.

[0086] Domain management function can also be replaced by terms such as subnetwork management function or network element / function management function, and can provide at least one of the following management functions or services:

[0087] Sub-network or network element lifecycle management, sub-network or network element deployment, sub-network or network element fault management, sub-network or network element performance management, sub-network or network element assurance, sub-network or network element optimization management, or sub-network or network element intent translation, etc.

[0088] The sub-network may include at least one network element, sub-network, or network slice sub-network, that is, at least one sub-network or network slice sub-network can form a sub-network with a larger coverage area.

[0089] In this embodiment of the application, the sub-network may also include one of the following description methods:

[0090] A network within a specific technology domain, such as an access network, core network, or transmission network.

[0091] A network of a certain standard, such as the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) network, the Long Term Evolution (LTE) network, the 5G network, and future communication networks;

[0092] A network provided by a specific equipment vendor, for example, a network provided by equipment vendor X;

[0093] A network for a specific geographical area, such as the network of factory A or the network of prefecture-level city B.

[0094] A network element can be understood as an entity that provides network services; for example, it may include core network elements and access network elements. Example:

[0095] For example, core network elements may include, but are not limited to, access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), policy control function (PCF), network data analysis function (NWDAF), network repository function (NRF), gateways, etc.

[0096] For example, access network elements may include, but are not limited to: various types of base stations (e.g., generation node B (gNB), evolved node B (eNB), central unit control panel (CUCP), central unit (CU), distributed unit (DU), central unit user panel (CUUP), etc.

[0097] The aforementioned business operation functions, cross-domain management functions, domain management functions, or network elements can all serve as either a management service producer (MnS Producer) or a management service consumer (MnS Consumer).

[0098] For example, when a business operation function can provide management services, the business operation function is called MnS Producer, while other business operation functions are called MnS Consumer.

[0099] For example, when the cross-domain management function can provide management services, the cross-domain management function is called MnS Producer, and the business operation function is called MnS Consumer.

[0100] For example, when a domain management function (e.g., domain management function 1 or domain management function 2) can provide management services, the domain management function is called MnS Producer, and the cross-domain management function or business operation function is called MnS Consumer.

[0101] For example, when a network element (e.g., network element 11, network element 12, network element 21 or network element 22) can provide management services, the network element is an MnS Producer, and the domain management function, cross-domain management function or business operation function is an MnS Consumer.

[0102] To improve the operational efficiency of wireless networks, automation features can be introduced into the aforementioned management service architecture (applied to wireless networks). For example, automation features can be introduced into service operation functions, cross-domain management functions, domain management functions, or network elements, etc.

[0103] Currently, the operation of automated function examples is completed automatically within the wireless network. Operations personnel cannot monitor the operation of these examples, potentially leading to increased operating costs. For example, an automated function example might identify a network problem requiring optimization and automatically fix it, even if the problem doesn't actually need optimization. Operations personnel cannot prevent the automated function example from optimizing this issue. Similarly, an automated function example might identify a weak coverage area and automatically fix it, even if the area doesn't require optimization. For instance, if the number of terminals in the weak coverage area is below a threshold, operations personnel might determine that optimization is unnecessary based on business factors, but they cannot prevent the automated function example from optimizing this network problem.

[0104] To enhance monitoring of the execution of automated function examples, an automated function example monitoring module can be introduced. For example:

[0105] For example, there is a network element deployment automation function example execution module (used to execute the automation function example) and a domain management function deployment automation function example monitoring module (used to monitor the running process of the automation function example);

[0106] For example, the domain management function deployment automation function example execution module, and the cross-domain management function deployment automation function example monitoring module;

[0107] For example, the example execution module for cross-domain management function deployment automation, and the example monitoring module for business operation function deployment automation.

[0108] An interface exists between the automated function example execution module and the automated function example monitoring module, which facilitates information exchange between them. In the aforementioned management service architecture, the automated function example monitoring module acts as a consumer of the management service for automated function examples, while the automated function example execution module acts as a provider of the management service for automated function examples.

[0109] For a description of the automated function example execution module and the automated function example monitoring module, please refer to Figure 2.

[0110] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 2, the communication system includes a first network element and a second network element. The first network element can be an entity that has deployed an automated function example execution module, and the second network element can be an entity that has deployed an automated function example monitoring module. For example, the first network element is network element 11 or network element 12, and the second network element is domain management function 1; or, for example, the first network element is network element 21 or network element 22, and the second network element is domain management function 2; or, for example, the first network element is domain management function 1, and the second network element is a cross-domain management function; or, for example, the first network element is a cross-domain management function, and the second network element is a service operation function. There is bidirectional information interaction between the first network element and the second network element.

[0111] As described in the background section, the efficiency of automated function examples during execution is susceptible to human intervention. For example, during operation, the automated function example execution module reports detected network problems to the automated function example monitoring module. The monitoring module determines whether to resolve the network problem; if so, it instructs the execution module to fix it. However, this can lead to untimely network problem repair, thus affecting network performance. For instance, delayed repair of a cell fault could result in a large number of users being unable to access the network, thereby impacting user experience.

[0112] In view of this, this application provides a communication method and communication device that can improve the operating efficiency of an automated function example during operation.

[0113] For ease of understanding and explanation, the communication method of this application embodiment is described below using the interaction between the first network element and the second network element as an example. However, this should not constitute any limitation on the subject executing the communication method. For example, the method executed by a network element (such as the first network element and / or the second network element) can also be executed by a module (such as a circuit, chip, or chip system) in the network element, or by a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the network element. There is no limitation in this regard.

[0114] When the steps involving sending or receiving are performed by control devices, modules (such as circuits, chips, or chip systems), logic nodes, logic modules, or software in the first and second network elements, sending / receiving can be understood as communicating through communication interfaces, input / output interfaces, pins, or circuits.

[0115] It should be noted that all terms used below are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be definitive. For example, terms such as "remediation strategies" and "network problem types" are merely examples and do not limit the use of other terms.

[0116] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the interaction flow of a communication method according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 3, the method includes:

[0117] S301, the second network element determines the first information.

[0118] The first information can be used to configure a repair strategy (or a network problem repair strategy, a network problem handling strategy, or a network problem resolution strategy, etc., without limitation). This repair strategy can be used by the first network element to determine the repair method for the network problems it detects when running the automated function example 1. In other words, the first network element can determine the repair method for the network problems it detects when running the automated function example 1 based on the repair strategy.

[0119] As a possible example, the above-mentioned repair method can also be replaced with terms such as processing method or solution method, without limitation.

[0120] In this embodiment of the application, the second network element can classify the network problems detected by the first network element during the operation of the automation function example 1 into two categories of network problems, as shown in Table 1. The content shown in Table 1 is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as a final limitation.

[0121] Table 1

[0122] As shown in Table 1:

[0123] For the first type of network problem, an automatic repair method is adopted;

[0124] For the second type of network problem, a manual repair method is used.

[0125] The aforementioned automatic repair method can be understood as automatically repairing detected network problems. For example, if the first network element detects a network problem during the operation of automation function example 1, the first network element can repair the problem itself without needing instructions from the second network element. Thus, the first network element does not report the detected network problem to the second network element, thereby reducing the latency of network problem resolution and improving the efficiency of automation function example 1 during operation.

[0126] The aforementioned manual repair method can be understood as a second network element other than the one that detected the network problem, or through a human-machine interface, instructing or determining whether to repair the detected network problem. For example, when the first network element detects a network problem during the operation of the motion automation function example 1, the first network element requests the second network element whether to repair the network problem. Further, if the second network element determines that the network problem needs to be repaired, it instructs the first network element whether to repair the network problem. If the second network element determines that the network problem detected by the first network element during the operation of the automation function example 1 is a network problem that does not need to be resolved, it can instruct the first network element not to repair the network problem. This can reduce the operating power consumption of the first network element, thereby reducing operating costs.

[0127] One possible implementation is that the distinction between Type I and Type II network problems is based on (or factors, grounds, or reasons, etc.) at least one of the following:

[0128] (Network Problem) Type (ProblemType);

[0129] The area where the network problem occurred (Problem Area);

[0130] (Network problem) occurrence time (ProblemTime).

[0131] For example, the first and second types of network problems are categorized based on the type of network problem. See Table 2 for details. However, the content in Table 2 is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as a final definition. Indicates the type of network problem.

[0132] Table 2

[0133] As shown in Table 2:

[0134] Regarding coverage-related network issues, weak coverage network issues belong to the second category of network issues, while coverage vulnerability network issues belong to the first category of network issues.

[0135] Regarding user experience-related network issues, low-speed network problems belong to the second category of network problems, while low-latency network problems belong to the first category of network problems.

[0136] For capacity-related network problems, high-load network problems belong to the second category of network problems, while low-load network problems belong to the first category of network problems.

[0137] Regarding energy-saving network problems, high-energy-consumption network problems belong to the second category of network problems, while low-energy-consumption network problems belong to the first category of network problems.

[0138] Regarding network problems of various types, network problems such as base station disconnection belong to the second category, network problems such as fronthaul / optical port failures belong to the first category, network problems such as clock failures belong to the second category, network problems such as cell outages belong to the first category, and network problems such as standing wave failures belong to the second category.

[0139] Optionally, the one or more types of network problems listed above can be classified as either Category I or Category II network problems. For example, coverage-related network problems and user experience-related network problems both belong to Category II network problems, while capacity-related network problems, energy-saving network problems, and fault-related network problems all belong to Category I network problems. This can enhance the first network element's authority to automatically repair network problems.

[0140] For example, the first and second types of network problems are categorized based on the region where the network problem occurs. See Table 3 for details. Note that the content in Table 3 is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as a final definition.

[0141] Table 3

[0142] As shown in Table 3:

[0143] The network problem occurring within the office area falls under the category of Category I network problems.

[0144] Network problems occurring within residential areas fall under the second category of network problems.

[0145] The network problem occurring within the factory area falls under the category of Type II network problems.

[0146] Optionally, the one or more types of areas listed above can be classified as either Category I or Category II network problems. For example, network problems occurring in office areas and residential areas both fall under Category II, while network problems occurring in factory areas fall under Category I. This can enhance the first network element's authority to automatically repair network problems.

[0147] For example, the first and second types of network problems are categorized based on the time of their occurrence. See Table 4 for details. However, the content in Table 4 is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as a final definition.

[0148] Table 4

[0149] As shown in Table 4:

[0150] Network problems occurring between 0:00 and 8:00 are classified as Category I network problems.

[0151] Network problems occurring between 8:00 and 17:00 are classified as Category II network problems.

[0152] Network problems occurring between 17:00 and 24:00 are classified as Category I network problems.

[0153] Optionally, network problems occurring within one or more of the time periods listed above can be classified as either Category I or Category II network problems. For example, network problems occurring between 0:00 and 20:00 are Category II network problems, while those occurring between 20:00 and 24:00 are Category I network problems. This can enhance the authority of the first network element to automatically repair network problems.

[0154] One possible implementation is that the above-mentioned (network problem) types, (network problem) locations, and (network problem) times can be combined with each other.

[0155] For example, the weak coverage network problem in area 1 belongs to the first type of network problem and can be repaired automatically, while the weak coverage problem in area 2 belongs to the second type of network problem and can be repaired manually.

[0156] For example, weak coverage network problems occurring in Area 1 between 18:00 and 24:00 belong to the first type of network problems and can be repaired automatically. Weak coverage problems occurring in Area 1 between 8:00 and 18:00 belong to the second type of network problems and can be repaired manually.

[0157] Based on the above analysis, the second network element can determine the first information, which is used to configure a repair strategy. The repair strategy is used to indicate at least one of network problems that are repaired automatically and network problems that are repaired manually.

[0158] For example, the above-mentioned repair strategy is used to indicate network problems that require automatic repair. The first network element can determine network problems that require automatic repair based on the repair strategy, and can also determine network problems that require manual repair based on this.

[0159] For example, the above-mentioned repair strategy is used to indicate network problems that require manual repair. The first network element can determine network problems that require manual repair based on the repair strategy, and can also determine network problems that require automatic repair based on this strategy.

[0160] For example, the above-mentioned repair strategy is used to indicate network problems that are repaired automatically and those that are repaired manually. The first network element can determine whether a network problem is repaired automatically or manually based on the repair strategy.

[0161] One possible implementation is that the above-mentioned repair strategy may include at least one of the following:

[0162] Information on network problems that can be repaired automatically or manually.

[0163] For example, the repair strategy includes information on network problems that are repaired automatically. The first network element can determine information that does not belong to network problems that are repaired automatically based on the information on network problems that are repaired automatically.

[0164] For example, the repair strategy includes information on network problems that are repaired manually. The first network element can determine information that does not belong to network problems that are repaired manually based on the information on network problems that are repaired manually.

[0165] For example, the remediation strategy includes information on network problems that are addressed automatically and those that are addressed manually.

[0166] In this way, the first network element can determine the network problems that require automatic repair and those that require manual repair based on the above information, and then determine the corresponding repair method.

[0167] One possible implementation is that the information regarding the network problem requiring automatic repair may include one or more of the aforementioned type, location of occurrence, and time of occurrence. In this way, the first network element can determine which network problem warrants automatic repair based on the information regarding the network problem requiring automatic repair, and can automatically repair the network problem requiring automatic repair. This can enhance the operational efficiency of the automation function example during operation.

[0168] One possible implementation is that the information regarding network problems requiring manual repair may include one or more of the aforementioned type, location of occurrence, and time of occurrence. In this way, the first network element can determine network problems for which manual repair is applicable based on this information.

[0169] S302, the second network element sends the first information to the first network element. Correspondingly, the first network element receives the first information.

[0170] One possible example is that the first information could be replaced with terms such as network problem remediation strategy configuration request information, without limitation.

[0171] Optionally, the first information may also include an identifier for Automation Function Example 1. In this way, the first network element can determine that the aforementioned repair strategy applies to Automation Function Example 1.

[0172] S303, Example 1 of the first network element operation automation function: If a first network problem is detected, the repair method for the first network problem is determined according to the repair strategy.

[0173] The first network element can determine the repair method for the first network problem based on the information and repair strategy of the first network problem. For example:

[0174] For example, the information of the first network problem includes that the area where the first network problem occurred is the office area, the information of the network problem in the repair strategy that adopts the automatic repair method includes the office area, and the first network element determines that the repair method of the first network problem is the automatic repair method.

[0175] For example, the information about the first network problem includes the time of occurrence of the first network problem being 8:00-18:00, and the information about network problems that adopt the manual repair method in the repair strategy includes 8:00-18:00. The first network element determines that the repair method for the first network problem is the manual repair method.

[0176] In the above scheme, the second network element classifies the network problems detected by the first network element when running the automated function example into two categories: one category is network problems that can be repaired automatically, and the other category is network problems that can be repaired manually. The second network element then configures the aforementioned repair strategy to the first network element. The first network element can then determine the corresponding repair method for the network problems detected when running the automated function example based on this repair strategy.

[0177] Compared to the existing scheme where the first network element reports all network problems detected by the second network element when running the automated function example, the above scheme can support the first network element to automatically repair network problems that can be repaired automatically, and only report information on network problems that can be repaired manually to the second network element. In this way, the first network element can repair network problems more promptly, thereby improving the operating efficiency of the automated function example during operation.

[0178] Through the above scheme, the first network element can automatically repair some network problems detected when running the automated function example, and reduce the number of network problems reported to the second network element, thereby supporting the improvement of the running efficiency of the automated function example during operation.

[0179] One possible implementation of the above method may also include:

[0180] S304a. The first network element determines that the repair method for the first network problem is manual repair based on the information of the first network problem and the information of the network problem that adopts the manual repair method.

[0181] S304b: The first network element sends the second information to itself. Correspondingly, the first network element receives the second information.

[0182] For example, the second information is used to request repair of the first network problem. Accordingly, the second network element determines whether to repair the first network problem.

[0183] The second piece of information includes at least one of the following:

[0184] The first identification of network problems;

[0185] The first type of network problem;

[0186] The area where the first network problem occurs;

[0187] The timing of the first network problem.

[0188] Thus, the first network element can determine whether to repair the first network problem based on one or more of the above.

[0189] For example, the second information includes an identifier for a first network problem. The second network element determines the first network problem based on the identifier and then determines whether to repair the first network problem. For instance, the identifier for the first network problem indicates that the first network problem is a weak coverage area network problem. The second network element can determine whether to repair the network problem based on whether the number of terminal devices in the weak coverage area is less than a threshold. For example, if the second network element determines that the number of terminal devices in the weak coverage area is less than the threshold, the second network element determines not to repair the network problem; conversely, if the second network element determines that the number of terminal devices in the weak coverage area is greater than the threshold, the second network element determines to repair the network problem.

[0190] For example, the second information includes the type of the first network problem, and the second network element determines the first network problem based on the type of the first network problem. For instance, if the type of the first network problem is the aforementioned energy-saving network problem, the second network element can determine whether to repair the network problem based on the overall energy consumption of the wireless network. For example, if the second network element determines that the overall energy consumption of the current wireless network is less than a threshold, the second network element determines not to repair the network problem; or, if the second network element determines that the overall energy consumption of the current wireless network is higher than a threshold, the second network element determines to repair the network problem.

[0191] For example, the second information includes the area where the first network problem occurs. The second network element determines whether to repair the first network problem based on the area where the first network problem occurs. For instance, if the area where the first network problem occurs is an office area, the second network element can determine whether to repair the network problem based on the number of users in that office area. For example, if the second network element determines that the number of users in that office area is less than a threshold, the second network element determines not to repair the network problem; or if the second network element determines that the number of users in that office area is greater than a threshold, the second network element determines to repair the network problem.

[0192] For example, the second information includes the time when the first network problem occurred. The second network element determines whether to repair the first network problem based on the area where the first network problem occurred. For instance, if the first network problem occurred between 9:00 and 16:00, the second network element can determine whether to repair the network problem based on the number of users during that time period. For example, if the second network element determines that the number of current users during that time period is less than a threshold, the second network element determines not to repair the network problem; or if the second network element determines that the number of current users during that time period is greater than a threshold, the second network element determines to repair the network problem.

[0193] Optionally, the second information can also indicate a solution to the first network problem. In this way, the second network element can determine whether to repair the first network problem based on the solution.

[0194] Optionally, the second information may also indicate the cause of the first network problem.

[0195] S304c: The first network element sends third information to the second network element. Correspondingly, the second network element receives the third information.

[0196] One possible example is that the third piece of information is used to instruct on fixing the first network problem.

[0197] Another possible example is that the third piece of information is used to indicate that the first network problem should not be fixed.

[0198] Optionally, the third information can also indicate a solution to the first network problem. In this way, the second network element can repair the first network problem based on the solution.

[0199] In this way, the first network element can report network problems that require manual repair to the second network element, and can determine whether to repair the first network problem based on the instructions of the second network element, thereby enabling the reduction of the operating power consumption of the first network element. For example, the first network element may not repair network problems that do not actually need to be repaired.

[0200] One possible implementation is that when the first network element determines that the repair method for the first network problem is automatic repair based on the information of the first network problem and the information of the network problem using the automatic repair method, the first network element repairs the first network problem automatically.

[0201] Specifically, the first network element performs a cause analysis on the first network problem, obtains the cause of the first network problem, provides a solution to fix the first network problem (such as modifying network configuration parameters), and executes the solution to the first network problem.

[0202] In this way, the first network element can automatically repair network problems using the automatic repair method, thereby enabling timely repair of network problems.

[0203] One possible implementation, the above method also includes:

[0204] S305. The first network element sends a network problem report of Automation Function Example 1 to the second network element. Correspondingly, the second network element receives the network problem report of Automation Function Example 1.

[0205] For example, the network problem report in Automation Function Example 1 includes at least one of the following: a list of network problem information and network problem statistics.

[0206] This allows the second network element to evaluate the performance of the example of the automation function.

[0207] Optionally, the network problem report in the above-described automated function example 1 may include information related to the first network problem.

[0208] One possible implementation is that the network problem report mentioned above also includes an identifier for Automation Function Example 1. In this way, the second network element can determine that the network problem report belongs to Automation Function Example 1.

[0209] One possible implementation is that the network problem statistics mentioned above include at least one of the following:

[0210] Number of tests;

[0211] Number of successful repairs;

[0212] Number of repair failures;

[0213] Number of automatic repairs;

[0214] Quantity manually repaired.

[0215] Thus, the second network element can evaluate the performance of the automation function example 1 based on the above information.

[0216] It should be noted that the second network element can evaluate the performance of Automation Function Example 1 based on any of the above information. When the network problem statistics include more information, the second network element can perform a more comprehensive evaluation of the performance of Automation Function Example 1.

[0217] One possible implementation is that the above list of network problem information includes at least one of the following:

[0218] Logo;

[0219] Processing status;

[0220] Repair results.

[0221] In this way, the second network element obtains more detailed information about network problems, and is thus able to evaluate the performance of the automated function example.

[0222] A description of the network problem information list can be found in Table 5. The content in Table 5 is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as a final limitation.

[0223] Table 5

[0224] As shown in Table 5:

[0225] Regarding network issue 1, the processing status is "manually" and the repair result is "succeeded".

[0226] Regarding network issue 2, the processing status was "automatically" and the repair result was "failed".

[0227] Regarding network issue 3, the processing status is "automatically repaired," and the repair result is "succeeded."

[0228] One possible implementation is that all network problems counted in the above network problem statistics are of the first type, or that all network problems occurring in the above network problem statistics are of the first region.

[0229] Alternatively, the above network problem statistics are based on the granularity of network problem type, or the above network problem statistics are based on the granularity of the region where the network problem occurs.

[0230] For example, the first network element collects statistics on network problems of the first type (such as the aforementioned coverage-related network problems) detected when running Automation Function Example 1. This allows the second network element to evaluate the performance of Automation Function Example 1.

[0231] In this way, the second network element can evaluate the performance of the automated function example in a specific region or under a specific type.

[0232] One possible implementation is that the network problem report mentioned above also includes network problem handling time information. A description of the network problem handling time information can be found in Table 6. However, the content in Table 6 is only an example and not a final limitation.

[0233] Table 6

[0234] As shown in Table 6:

[0235] Regarding network problem 1, the first network element resolves network problem 1 at time 1 (either automatically or manually);

[0236] Regarding network problem 2, the first network element resolves network problem 2 at time 2 (either automatically or manually);

[0237] Regarding network problem 3, the first network element resolves network problem 3 at time 3 (either automatically or manually).

[0238] Thus, the second network element can evaluate the performance of the automated function example 1 during operation based on the network problem processing time information. For example, the second network element can determine whether the automated function example 1 can quickly detect and repair the network problem based on the time difference between the automated function example 1 detecting the network problem and the automated function example 1 repairing the network problem.

[0239] The method shown in Figure 3 will be further described below with reference to Figure 4.

[0240] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of an application scenario according to an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the coverage area corresponding to application (APP) 1 is area A, and the coverage area corresponding to APP 2 is area B. Area A includes area 1 and area 2, and area B includes area 2 and area 3. APP 1 and APP 2 each deploy automated function examples; for example, APP 1 deploys automated function example 1, and APP 2 deploys automated function example 2. APP 1 and APP 2 can each obtain their respective repair strategies from the operation and maintenance platform.

[0241] For example, APP1 obtains repair strategy 1 from the operations and maintenance platform, and APP2 obtains repair strategy 2 from the operations and maintenance platform. Repair strategy 1 indicates that network problems in area 1 can be repaired automatically, while network problems in area 2 can be repaired manually. Repair strategy 2 indicates that network problems in area 3 can be repaired automatically, while network problems in area 2 can be repaired manually.

[0242] When APP1 and APP2 are running automated function examples, they can determine the corresponding repair methods for network problems detected during the operation of the automated function examples according to their respective repair strategies. For example, for APP1, APP1 uses automatic repair for network problems detected in region 1 and manual repair for network problems detected in region 3 according to repair strategy 1. For another example, for APP2, APP2 uses automatic repair for network problems detected in region 2 and manual repair for network problems detected in region 3 according to repair strategy 2, thereby improving the running efficiency of the automated function examples during operation.

[0243] In summary, this embodiment of the application divides network problems detected by the automated function example during runtime into network problems that can be automatically repaired and network problems that can be manually repaired. The information used to distinguish between automatically repaired and manually repaired network problems is sent to the first network element. When running the automated function example, the first network element can determine the corresponding repair method for the network problems detected by the automated function example during runtime. In this way, the running efficiency of the automated function example during operation can be improved, and the number of network problems reported by the first network element to the second network element can be reduced.

[0244] To achieve the functions provided in this application, both the first network element and the second network element may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the aforementioned functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is executed in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0245] Figure 5 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device includes a processing circuit 510 and a transceiver circuit 520, which can be interconnected or coupled, for example, interconnected via a bus 530. The communication device can be a first network element or a second network element, etc.

[0246] Optionally, the communication device may further include a memory 540. The memory 540 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 540 is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory in the embodiments of this application may also be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing a storage function for storing computer programs or instructions, and / or data.

[0247] The processing circuit 510 can be all or part of the processing circuitry in one or more processors, or it can be one or more processors. The processor can be a central processing unit (CPU). If the processing circuit 510 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU. The processing circuit 510 can be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit capable of implementing the methods of this application, or a portion of the circuitry within the aforementioned processor, chip, or integrated circuit that performs processing functions. Additionally, the transceiver circuit 520 can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface. An input / output interface is used for inputting or outputting signals or data and can also be referred to as an input / output circuit.

[0248] When the communication device is the first network element, for example, the processing circuit 510 is used to perform the following operations: receive first information; run the automation function example 1 to detect a first network problem, and determine the repair method for the first network problem according to the repair strategy, etc.

[0249] When the communication device is a second network element, for example, the processing circuit 510 is used to perform the following operations: determine first information; send the first information, etc.

[0250] When the communication device is the first network element or the second network element, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the first network element or the second network element in the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0251] When the communication device shown in Figure 5 is a first network element or a second network element, the transceiver circuit 520 can be a transceiver.

[0252] When the communication device shown in Figure 5 is a chip used for the first network element or the second network element, the transceiver circuit 520 can be an input / output circuit.

[0253] The above description is merely exemplary. For details, please refer to the content shown in the above method embodiments.

[0254] The implementation of each operation in Figure 5 can also be described in the corresponding description of the method embodiments shown in Figures 3 and 4.

[0255] Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of this application. This communication device can be a first network element or a second network element, or be located within a first network element or a second network element, and is used to implement the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0256] The communication device 600 includes a transceiver unit 610 and a processing unit 620. The transceiver unit 610 may include a sending unit and a receiving unit. The sending unit performs the sending action of the communication device, and the receiving unit performs the receiving action of the communication device. For ease of description, the sending unit and the receiving unit are combined into a single transceiver unit in this embodiment. This will be explained uniformly here and will not be repeated later.

[0257] When the communication device is the first network element, for example, the transceiver unit 610 is used to receive the first information; the processing unit 620 is used to run the automation function example 1 to detect the first network problem, and determine the repair method of the first network problem according to the repair strategy, etc.

[0258] When the communication device is a second network element, for example, the transceiver unit 610 is used to: determine first information; the processing unit 620 is used to send the first information, etc.

[0259] When the communication device shown in Figure 6 is the first network element or the second network element, it will be responsible for executing one or more of the methods or steps related to the first network element or the second network element in the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0260] Optionally, the communication device shown in FIG6 further includes a storage unit 630 for storing programs or code for performing the aforementioned methods.

[0261] The transceiver unit in Figure 6 corresponds to the transceiver circuit in Figure 5, and the processing unit in Figure 6 corresponds to the processing circuit in Figure 5.

[0262] The apparatus embodiments shown in Figures 5 and 6 are used to implement the contents described in Figures 3 to 4. The specific execution steps and methods of the apparatus shown in Figures 5 and 6 can be found in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0263] This application also provides a chip, including a processor, for calling and executing instructions stored in a memory, causing a communication device on which the chip is installed to perform the methods described in the examples above. The memory may be integrated within the chip or located externally.

[0264] This application also provides another chip, including: an input interface, an output interface, and a processing circuit, wherein the input interface, the output interface, and the processor are connected through an internal connection path, and the processing circuit is used to execute code in memory. When the code is executed, the processing circuit is used to execute the methods in the above examples.

[0265] Optionally, the chip also includes a memory for storing computer programs or code. The input and output interfaces can be independent of each other, or they can be integrated into a single input / output interface.

[0266] The processing circuitry can be all or part of the processing circuitry in one or more processors, or one or more processors.

[0267] This application also provides a communication device, including a processor coupled to a memory, the processor being used to execute a computer program stored in the memory to implement the methods and functions involving a first network element or a second network element in any of the above method embodiments.

[0268] In another embodiment of this application, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0269] This application also provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0270] In another embodiment of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program that, when executed by a computer, implements the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0271] It should be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the processor can be a central processing unit (CPU), but it can also be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0272] In addition, the processor may include one or more of the following: a central processing unit (CPU), a baseband processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), a microprocessor unit (MPU), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an artificial intelligence processor (AI processor), or a neural processing unit (NPU).

[0273] It should also be understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of random access memory (RAM) are available, such as static RAM (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous SDRAM (ESDRAM), synchronous linked DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0274] The above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, by software, hardware, firmware, or any other combination thereof. When implemented using software, the above embodiments can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. A computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer programs are loaded or executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that includes one or more sets of available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium. A semiconductor medium can be a solid-state drive.

[0275] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0276] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application. Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here. In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for example, the division of units is merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0277] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs. Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. If the above functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0278] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method comprises: receiving first information from a first network element, the first information being used for configuring a repair strategy, the repair strategy being used for indicating at least one of a network problem in an automatic repair mode and a network problem in a manual repair mode; when a first network problem is detected by an automated function instance, determining a repair mode of the first network problem according to the repair strategy.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The repair strategy comprises at least one of: information of the network problem in the automatic repair mode, or information of the network problem in the manual repair mode.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, The information of the network problem in the automatic repair mode comprises at least one of: a type, an occurrence area, or an occurrence time.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The method further comprises: determining, according to the information of the first network problem and the information of the network problem in the automatic repair mode, that the repair mode of the first network problem is the automatic repair mode; repairing the first network problem.

5. The method of claim 2, wherein, The information of the network problem in the manual repair mode comprises at least one of: a type, an occurrence area, or an occurrence time.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The type comprises at least one of: a coverage type, a user experience type, a capacity type, an energy saving type, or a fault type.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The method further comprises: determining, according to the information of the first network problem and the information of the network problem in the manual repair mode, that the repair mode of the first network problem is the manual repair mode; sending second information to the first network element, the second information being used for requesting to repair the first network problem; receiving third information from the first network element, the third information being used for indicating to repair the first network problem; repairing the first network problem according to the third information; The second information comprises at least one of: an identifier of the first network problem, a type of the first network problem, an occurrence area of the first network problem, or an occurrence time of the first network problem.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The method further comprises: sending a network problem report of the automated function instance to the first network element, the network problem report comprising at least one of a network problem information list and network problem statistical information.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The network problem report further comprises network problem processing time information.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The network problem statistical information comprises at least one of: a detection number, a repair success number, a repair failure number, an automatic repair number, or a manual repair number.

11. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that, The network problem information list comprises: an identifier, a processing state, or a repair result.

12. The method of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein: all network problems counted by the network problem statistical information are of a first type, or all occurrence areas of network problems counted by the network problem statistical information are a first area.

13. A method of communication, comprising: The method comprises: determining first information, the first information being used for configuring a repair strategy, the repair strategy being used for indicating at least one of a network problem in an automatic repair mode and a network problem in a manual repair mode; sending the first information to a second network element, the first information being used for the second network element to determine a repair mode of a first network problem detected when an automated function instance is run.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The repair strategy comprises at least one of the following: information of a network problem repaired in an automatic manner, or information of a network problem repaired in a manual manner.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The information of the network problem repaired in the automatic manner comprises at least one of the following: a type, an occurrence area, or an occurrence time.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein, The information of the network problem repaired in the manual manner comprises at least one of the following: a type, an occurrence area, or an occurrence time.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The type of the network problem comprises at least one of the following: a coverage type, a user experience type, a capacity type, an energy saving type, or a fault type.

18. The method of claim 16 or 17, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving second information from the second network element, the second information being used for requesting to repair the first network problem, and a repair manner of the first network problem being a manual repair; sending third information to the second network element, the third information being used for indicating to repair the first network problem; wherein the second information comprises at least one of the following: an identifier of the first network problem, a type of the first network problem, an occurrence area of the first network problem, or an occurrence time of the first network problem.

19. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that, The method further comprises: receiving a network problem report of the automatic function instance from the second network element, the network problem report comprising at least one of a network problem information list and network problem statistical information.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The network problem report further comprises network problem processing time information.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The network problem statistical information comprises at least one of the following: a detection number, a repair success number, a repair failure number, an automatic repair number, or a manual repair number.

22. The method of any one of claims 19-21, wherein, The network problem information list comprises: an identifier, a processing state, or a repair result.

23. The method of any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein: all types of network problems counted by the network problem statistical information are of a first type, or all occurrence areas of network problems counted by the network problem statistical information are of a first area.

24. A communications device, characterized by The communication device comprises a processor configured to cause the communication device to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 23 by executing computer programs or instructions or by a logic circuit.

25. The communication apparatus according to claim 24, wherein, The communication device further comprises a memory configured to store the computer programs or instructions.

26. The communication apparatus according to claim 24 or 25, wherein, The communication device further comprises a communication interface configured to input and / or output signals.

27. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer readable storage medium stores computer programs or instructions, which, when executed on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 23 to be performed.

28. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer readable storage medium stores instructions, which, when executed on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 23 to be performed.

29. A chip, characterized by The chip is installed in a communication device, and the chip comprises a processor and a communication interface, the processor reads instructions through the communication interface and executes the instructions, so that the communication device performs the method of any one of claims 1 to 23.

30. A communication system, characterized by comprise: a first network element and a second network element; the second network element is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 12. The first network element is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 13 to 23. The first network element is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 13 to 23.

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