A method and an apparatus for a communication network

Abstract

A method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device for a first communication network of a first type, wherein the device is configured to exchange information with at least one further device associated with a second communication network of a second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network, the method comprising: providing (100) a first functionality (FUN-1) configured to exchange (102; 102a; 102b) control signaling (CS) between the first communication network and the second communication network, exchanging (102; 102a; 102b) the control signaling (CS) between the first communication network and the second communication network by means of the first functionality (FUN-1).

Description

[0001] R.416577

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[0003] A Method and an Apparatus for a Communication Network

[0004] Technical Field

[0005] The disclosure relates to a method for a device for a first communication network of a first type.

[0006] The disclosure further relates to an apparatus for a first communication network of a first type.

[0007] Summary

[0008] Some examples relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device for a first communication network of a first type, wherein the device is configured to exchange information with at least one further device associated with a second communication network of a second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network, the method comprising: providing a first functionality configured to exchange control signaling between the first communication network and the second communication network, exchanging the control signaling between the first communication network and the second communication network by means of the first functionality. Here, the second type is preferably different from the first type. Exchanging the control signaling may comprise converting at least one command associated with the first communication network to a corresponding command for the second communication network.

[0009] In some examples, this enables to efficiently integrate one or more subnetworks into the first communication network.

[0010] In some examples, the first type is a wireless, e.g., cellular, communication network according to and / or based on at least one third generation partnershipR.416577

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[0012] project, 3GPP, standard, wherein for example the first communication network is a 3GPP network.

[0013] In some examples, the second type comprises at least one of: a) Wi-Fi, or b) Bluetooth, or c) DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications). In other words, in some examples, the second communication network is a non-3GPP network. In some examples, this enables to provide non-3GPP subnetworks as subnetworks to the first communication network.

[0014] In some examples, the control signaling comprises Radio Resource Management, RRM, signaling, e.g., RRM messages. This enables to efficiently provide RRM messages, e.g., from the first communication network to the second communication network, thus, e.g., facilitating integration of the second communication network as a subnetwork into the first communication network.

[0015] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of: a) using an applicationlayer based method, e.g., for the exchanging and / or a converting of the control signaling, or b) using at least one service, e.g., micro service, e.g., for providing at least one of b1) a protocol gateway, or b2) a middleware, or c) using, e.g., only, a layer 2 functionality, e.g., for the exchanging and / or a converting of the control signaling, wherein for example the converting of the control signaling is performed by means of hardware, e.g., hardware being configured to perform predetermined network protocol translations.

[0016] In some examples, the application-layer based method comprises at least one of: a) a REST (Representational State Transfer) API (Application Programming Interface), or b) a web socket, or c) an Advanced Message Queuing Protocol, or d) a Remote Procedure Call, e.g., gRPC, e.g., with streaming.

[0017] In some examples, the method comprises: providing, e.g., by the first functionality, a first, e.g., standardized, interface, for information exchange with the first communication network, providing, e.g., by the first functionality, a second, interface, for information exchange with the second communication network, wherein for example the second interface is customizable, e.g., for adaptation to the second communication network.R.416577

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[0019] Some examples relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device for a first communication network of a first type, the method comprising: processing information associated with at least a second communication network of a second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network, wherein for example the first type is a wireless communication network according to and / or based on at least one third generation partnership project, 3GPP, standard, wherein for example the first communication network is a 3GPP network, wherein for example the second type comprises at least one of: a) Wi-Fi, or b) Bluetooth, or c) DECT, wherein for example the second communication network is a non-3GPP network. Here, the second type is preferably different from the first type.

[0020] In some examples, the processing at least temporarily comprises at least one of: a) identifying at least one of a1) the second communication network, or a2) data associated with the second communication network, or b) managing, e.g., configuring the second communication network, or c) gathering data from the second communication network.

[0021] In some examples, the method comprises: providing a first functionality configured to exchange control signaling between the first communication network and the second communication network, exchanging the control signaling between the first communication network and the second communication network by means of the first functionality, wherein for example the control signaling comprises Radio Resource Management, RRM, signaling, e.g., RRM messages. Exchanging the control signaling may comprise converting at least one command associated with the first communication network to a corresponding command for the second communication network.

[0022] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) establishing a connection to the second network, or b) determining, information characterizing at least one of b1) functions, e.g., available functions, of the second network, or b2) a configuration of the second network, e.g., by using a discovery mechanism, e.g., using broadcast messages, e.g., within the second network, orc) collecting, e.g., gathering, measurement information associated with the second network, or d) providing the control signaling, e.g., in the form of Radio Resource Management commands, to the second network, orR.416577

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[0024] e) processing at least a part of the information, e.g., for making at least one decision associated with the second network.

[0025] In some examples, the method comprises: providing, e.g., performing, a gateway function, e.g., protocol gateway function, e.g., for converting at least one command associated with the first network to a corresponding command for the second network.

[0026] Some examples relate to an apparatus for a first communication network of a first type, wherein the apparatus is configured to perform the method according to the disclosure.

[0027] Some examples relate to a device for a first communication network of a first type, wherein the device comprises an apparatus according to the disclosure, wherein for example the device is a network device.

[0028] Some examples relate to a computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the disclosure.

[0029] Some examples relate to a data carrier signal carrying and / or characterizing the computer program according to the disclosure.

[0030] Some examples relate to a computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the disclosure.

[0031] Some examples relate to a use of the method of the disclosure and / or of the apparatus of the disclosure and / or of the device of the disclosure and / or of the computer program of the disclosure and / or of the data carrier signal of the disclosure and / or of the computer-readable medium of the disclosure for at least one of: a) integrating a non-3GPP based subnetwork to a 3GPP network, or b) providing a framework to enhance a flexibility for subnetworks, or c) expanding connectivity options for subnetworks, or d) improving a performance, e.g., an overall subnetwork performance, e.g., by combining aspects of 3GPP and non-3GPP technologies, or e) managing subnetworks from the first communication network, e.g., a core, e.g., core layer, of the first communication network.R.416577

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[0033] Brief Description of Example Figures

[0034] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] Fig. 1 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0036] Fig. 2 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0037] Fig. 3 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0038] Fig. 4 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0039] Fig. 5 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0040] Fig. 6 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0041] Fig. 7 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0042] Fig. 8 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,

[0043] Fig. 9 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0044] Fig. 10 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0045] Fig. 11 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0046] Fig. 12 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0047] Fig. 13 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,

[0048] Fig. 14 schematically depicts example aspects of use.

[0049] Some examples, see, for example, Fig. 1, 2, relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device 10 for a first communication networkR.416577

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[0051] 1 of a first type, wherein the device 10 is configured to exchange information with at least one further device 20 associated with a second communication network 2 of a different second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network 1, the method comprising: providing 100 (Fig. 1) a first functionality FUN-1 configured to exchange control signaling CS between the first communication network 1 and the second communication network 2, exchanging 102 the control signaling CS between the first communication network 1 and the second communication network 2 by means of the first functionality FUN-1. In some examples, this enables to efficiently integrate one or more subnetworks 2 into the first communication network 1.

[0052] In some examples, see Fig. 1, the exchanging 102 of the control signaling CS may comprise transmitting 102a the control signaling CS, e.g., from the first communication network 1 to the second communication network, e.g., subnetwork, 2.

[0053] In some examples, see Fig. 1, the exchanging 102 of the control signaling CS may comprise receiving 102b the control signaling CS, e.g., at and / or by the first communication network 1, e.g., from the second communication network, e.g., subnetwork, 2.

[0054] In some examples, see Fig. 1, the exchanging 102 of the control signaling CS may, e.g., comprise converting 102c the control signaling CS. In some examples, the converting 102c may, e.g., be performed prior and / or during at least one of a) the transmitting 102a, or b) the receiving 102b.

[0055] The optional block 104 symbolizes an optional data exchange between the communication networks 1, 2 or individual devices 10, 20, ... thereof according to some examples.

[0056] In some examples, see Fig. 2, at least some aspects of the method according to the disclosure may, e.g., be performed by an apparatus 200, which may, e.g., be an apparatus 200 for the device 10. In some examples, the apparatus 200 or its functionality, respectively, may be integrated into the device 10 (not shown). In some other examples, however, the apparatus 200 may be arranged outside of and / or remote with respect to the device 10.R.416577

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[0058] In some examples, see Fig. 2, the first type is a wireless, e.g., cellular, communication network 1 according to and / or based on at least one third generation partnership project, 3GPP, standard, wherein for example the first communication network 1 is a 3GPP network.

[0059] In some examples, see Fig. 2, the second type comprises at least one of: a) WiFi, or b) Bluetooth, or c) DECT. In other words, in some examples, the second communication network 2 is a non-3GPP network. In some examples, this enables to provide non-3GPP subnetworks 2 as subnetworks to the first communication network 1, wherein, in some examples, the subnetworks 2 may at least temporarily be managed and / or configured by the 3GPP network 1.

[0060] In some examples, see Fig. 2, the control signaling CS comprises Radio Resource Management, RRM, signaling, e.g., RRM messages. This enables to efficiently provide RRM messages, e.g., from the first communication network 1 to the second communication network 2 (and / or vice versa), thus, e.g., facilitating integration of the second communication network 2 as a subnetwork into the first communication network 1.

[0061] In some examples, see Fig. 3, the method comprises at least one of: a) using 110 an application-layer based method AL-M, e.g., for the exchanging 102 and / or the converting 102c of the control signaling CS, or b) using 112 at least one service, e.g., micro service, SVC, e.g., for providing at least one of b1) a protocol gateway PGW, or b2) a middleware MW, orc) using 114, e.g., only, a layer 2 functionality L2-FLIN, e.g., for the exchanging 102 and / or the converting 102c of the control signaling CS, wherein for example the converting 102c of the control signaling CS is performed by means of hardware HW, e.g., hardware HW being configured to perform predetermined network protocol translations. In some examples, this enables to provide a particularly efficient conversion of the control signaling CS, e.g., of aspects of communication and / or control protocols associated with at least one of the communication networks 1 , 2.

[0062] In some examples, see Fig. 3, the application-layer based method AL-M comprises at least one of: a) a REST (Representational State Transfer) API (Application Programming Interface), or b) a web socket, or c) an AdvancedR.416577

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[0064] Message Queuing Protocol, or d) Remote Procedure Call, e.g., gRPC, e.g., with streaming.

[0065] In some examples, see Fig. 4, the method comprises: providing 120, e.g., by the first functionality FUN-1 (Fig. 2), a first, e.g., standardized, interface IF-1, for information exchange with the first communication network 1, providing 122, e.g., by the first functionality FUN-1, a second, interface I F-2, for information exchange with the second communication network 2, wherein for example the second interface I F-2 is customizable, e.g., for adaptation to the second communication network 2.

[0066] Some examples, see Fig. 2, 5, relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device 10' for a first communication network 1 of a first type, the method comprising: processing 150 information l-SN associated with at least a second communication network 2 of a different second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network 1 , wherein for example the first type is a wireless communication network according to and / or based on at least one third generation partnership project, 3GPP, standard, wherein for example the first communication network 1 is a 3GPP network, wherein for example the second type comprises at least one of: a) WiFi, or b) Bluetooth, or c) DECT, wherein for example the second communication network 2 is a non-3GPP network.

[0067] In some examples, see Fig. 5, the processing 150 at least temporarily comprises at least one of: a) identifying 150a at least one of a1) the second communication network 2, or a2) data associated with the second communication network 2, or b) managing 150b, e.g., configuring 150c, the second communication network 2, or c) gathering 150d data from the second communication network 2.

[0068] The optional block 152 of Fig. 5 symbolizes an operation of the second network 2 as a subnetwork of the first network 1.

[0069] In some examples, see Fig. 6, the method comprises: providing 160 a first functionality FUN-1' (e.g., at least similar to the first functionality FUN-1 explained above with respect to the device 10, also see block 100 of Fig. 1) configured to exchange (e.g., comprising to convert) control signaling CS between the firstR.416577

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[0071] communication network 1 and the second communication network 2, exchanging 162 the control signaling CS between the first communication network 1 and the second communication network 2 by means of the first functionality FUN-1', wherein for example the control signaling CS comprises Radio Resource Management, RRM, signaling, e.g., RRM messages.

[0072] In some examples, Fig. 6, the exchanging 162 of the control signaling CS may comprise transmitting 162a the control signaling CS, e.g., from the first communication network 1 to the second communication network, e.g., subnetwork, 2.

[0073] In some examples, see Fig. 6, the exchanging 162 of the control signaling CS may comprise receiving 162b the control signaling CS, e.g., at and / or by the first communication network 1, e.g., from the second communication network, e.g., subnetwork, 2.

[0074] In some examples, see Fig. 6, the exchanging 162 of the control signaling CS may, e.g., comprise converting 162c the control signaling CS. In some examples, the converting 162c may, e.g., be performed prior and / or during at least one of a) the transmitting 162a, or b) the receiving 162b.

[0075] The optional block 164 of Fig. 6 symbolizes an optional data exchange between the communication networks 1 , 2 according to some examples.

[0076] In some examples, see Fig. 7, the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) establishing 170 a connection CONN-2 to the second communication network 2, or b) determining 171 information l-SN' characterizing at least one of b1) functions, e.g., available functions, of the second network 2, or b2) a configuration of the second network 2, e.g., by using a discovery mechanism, e.g., using broadcast messages, e.g., within the second network 2, or c) collecting 172, e.g., gathering, measurement information associated with the second network 2, or d) providing 173 the control signaling, e.g., in the form of Radio Resource Management commands, to the second network 2, or e) processing 174 at least a part of the information l-SN', e.g., for making at least one decision associated with the second network 2.R.416577

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[0078] In some examples, Fig. 8, the method comprises: providing 180, e.g., performing, a gateway function GW, e.g., protocol gateway function, e.g., for converting 182 at least one command CMD-1 associated with the first network 1 to a corresponding command CMD-2 for the second network 2.

[0079] Some examples, see Fig. 2, relate to an apparatus 200 for a first communication network 1 of a first type, wherein the apparatus 200 is configured to perform the method according to the disclosure. Further details related to examples of the apparatus 200 are provided further below with reference to Fig. 9.

[0080] Some examples, see Fig. 2, relate to a device 10, 10' for a first communication network 1 of a first type, wherein the device 10, 10' comprises an apparatus 200 according to the disclosure, wherein for example the device 10, 10' is a network device.

[0081] In some examples, see Fig. 2, the device 10 may be denoted as non-3GPP conversion, N3GPPConv, entity. In some examples, the device 10 may, e.g., be associated with a terminal device (not shown in Fig. 2) for the first communication network 1.

[0082] In some examples, see Fig. 2, the device 10' may be denoted as non-3GPP Subnetwork Function, N3GPP SNF, entity. In some examples, the device 10' may, e.g., be associated with a core network of the first communication network 1. In some examples, the device 10' may, e.g., form part of a Service-Based Architecture, SBA, of the first communication network 1.

[0083] Fig. 9 schematically depicts example aspects of the apparatus 200 according to the disclosure. In some examples, the apparatus 200 comprises at least one calculating unit, e.g. processor, 202 (comprising, e.g., at least one core 202a) and at least one memory unit 204 associated with (i.e. , usable by) the at least one calculating unit 202 for at least temporarily storing a computer program PRG and / or data DAT, wherein the computer program PRG is e.g. configured to at least temporarily control the execution of a method according to the disclosure.

[0084] In some examples, see Fig. 9, the at least one calculating unit 202 may comprise at least one of the following elements: a microprocessor, a microcontroller, aR.416577

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[0086] digital signal processor (DSP), a programmable logic element (e.g., FPGA, field programmable gate array), an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit), hardware circuitry, a tensor processor, a graphics processing unit (GPU).

[0087] According to further examples, any combination of two or more of these elements is also possible.

[0088] In some examples, see Fig. 9, the memory unit 204 comprises at least one of the following elements: a volatile memory 204a, particularly a random-access memory (RAM), a non-volatile memory 204b, particularly a Flash-EEPROM.

[0089] In some examples, see Fig. 9, the computer program PRG is at least temporarily stored in the non-volatile memory 204b. Data DAT, e.g. associated with at least one of a) the first functionality FUN-1, FUN-1', or b) the control signaling CS, or c) the information l-SN, l-SN', or d) at least one of the interfaces I F-1 , I F-2, or e) at least one further aspect AL-M, SVC, PGW, MW, L2-FUN, HW, CONN-2, CDM-1, CMD-2, ... , may at least temporarily be stored in the RAM 204a.

[0090] In some examples, see Fig. 9, an optional computer-readable storage medium SM comprising instructions, e.g. in the form of the computer program PRG, may be provided. As an example, the storage medium SM may comprise or represent a digital storage medium such as a semiconductor memory device (e.g., solid state drive, SSD) and / or a magnetic storage medium such as a disk or hard disk drive (HDD) and / or an optical storage medium such as a compact disc (CD) or DVD (digital versatile disc) or the like.

[0091] In some examples, see Fig. 9, the apparatus 200 may comprise an optional data interface 206, e.g. for bidirectional data exchange with an external device (not shown). As an example, by means of the optional data interface 206, a data carrier signal DCS may be received, e.g. from the external device, for example via a wired or a wireless data transmission medium (e.g., associated with at least one of the communication systems 1, 2), e.g. over a (virtual) private computer network and / or a public computer network such as e.g. the Internet.

[0092] In some examples, see Fig. 9, the data carrier signal DCS may represent or carry the computer program PRG according to the disclosure, or at least a part thereof.R.416577

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[0094] In the following, further aspects and examples are disclosed, which, in some examples, may be combined with each other and / or with at least one of the abovementioned aspects and examples.

[0095] Fig. 10 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of aspects of a first communication network suitable for integrating one or more subnetworks according to some examples. Element E1 symbolizes the first communication network, e.g., a 3GPP network, e.g., at least similar to element 1 of Fig. 2.

[0096] Element E1a of Fig. 10 symbolizes a 3GPP Core Network, e.g., associated with and / or comprising a Service-Based Architecture, SBA. Element E1b of Fig. 10 symbolizes an access network, e.g., radio access network, e.g., providing an interface, e.g., air interface, a1 e.g., for at least one terminal or end device E2. In some examples, the interface a1 may, e.g., be a 3GPP llu (e.g., NG-llu) interface. Element E1c symbolizes a User Plane Function, UPF, of the 3GPP network E1. Element E1d symbolizes a N3GPP SNF entity, which, in some examples, may, e.g., be implemented using at least one of the devices 10, 10' according to the disclosure, e.g., device 10'.

[0097] Element E2a symbolizes an N3GPPConv entity, which, in some examples, may, e.g., be implemented using at least one of the devices 10, 10' according to the disclosure, e.g., device 10. Element E2b of Fig. 10 symbolizes a user equipment (UE) ora respective functionality of the end device E2, e.g., enabling information exchange via the air interface a1 with the 3GPP network 1. Element E2c of Fig.

[0098] 10 symbolizes aspects of at least one further, e.g., second, communication network, e.g., at least temporarily forming a subnetwork, e.g., a non-3GPP subnetwork, for the 3GPP network E1.

[0099] In some examples, see Fig. 10, the N3GPPConv entity E2a is connected to the UE functionality E2b via an interface a2. In some examples, Fig. 10, the N3GPPConv entity E2a is connected to the non-3GPP subnetwork via an interface a3.

[0100] As can be seen from Fig. 10, in some examples, the interface a1 enables to establish direct communication between the 3GPP network E1, e.g., in its role as a parent network, and the non-3GPP network 2, also see block E2c, e.g., in its role as a subnetwork. In some examples, the N3GPPConv entity E2a isR.416577

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[0102] configured to convert the control signals CS (Fig. 2) such as, e.g., 3GPP RRM messages, e.g., for compatibility with the non- 3GPP subnetwork E2c.

[0103] In some examples, see Fig. 10, the N3GPPConv entity E2a may use at least one application layer method AL-M (also see block 110 of Fig. 3), such as REST APIs, web sockets, AMQP (Advanced Message Queuing Protocol), gRPC with streaming, etc., wherein a conversion can, e.g., be achieved through micro services, e.g., for creating a protocol gateway PGWor middleware MW.

[0104] In some examples, the N3GPPConv entity E2a may also be configured to operate on (e.g., ISO / OSI) layer 2, e.g., only, wherein for example a conversion may be directly performed via hardware, e.g., hardware embedded with specified network protocol translators.

[0105] In some examples, see Fig. 10, the principle according to the disclosure may, e.g., be used to enable a scenario where the non-3GPP network E2c or a device for the non-3GPP network, respectively, is a Wi-Fi Access Point (AP), and the 3GPP network E1 issues a channel switching command, e.g., over the interface a1. In some examples, the N3GPPConv entity E2a may receive such channel switching command (also see command CMD-1 of Fig. 8) from the UE functionality E2b, i.e., over the interface a2, and may convert the channel switching command into a corresponding command (also see command CMD-2 of Fig. 8) for the W-Fi Access Point E2c, e.g., for transmission to the W-Fi Access Point E2c over the interface a3.

[0106] Similarly, in some examples, the N3GPPConv entity E2a is configured to accommodate diverse configurations and / or aspects of interfaces, e.g., interface compatibilities, e.g., across different vendors of devices for the non-3GPP network E2c, e.g., by performing corresponding protocol conversions and / or security procedures. In some examples, Fig. 10, the N3GPPConv entity E2a may facilitate communication through two, e.g., distinct interfaces: a standardized interface a2, e.g., for interaction with the 3GPP network E1 , and a customizable interface a3, e.g., tailored to meet potentially vendorspecific requirements of the non-3GPP subnetwork E2c.R.416577

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[0108] In some examples, see Fig. 10, the principle according to the disclosure enables to provide an architectural component within the 3GPP network E1 , e.g., in the form of a Non-3GPP Sub-Network Function, e.g., symbolized by the N3GPP SNF entity E1d. In some examples, the component E1d may, e.g., form part of the 3GPP Service-Based Architecture (SBA), and may, e.g., be configured to or may support at least one of: a) identifying, or b) managing (i.e., configuring), orc) gathering data, e.g., from non-3GPP subnetworks E2c.

[0109] Fig. 11 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of aspects of a first communication network suitable for integrating one or more subnetworks according to some examples. Element E10 symbolizes a 5G Service-Based Architecture, e.g., associated with the first communication network. Element E11 symbolizes a session management function (SMF). Element E12 symbolizes an access and mobility management function (AMF). Element E13 symbolizes a user plane function (UPF). Element E14 symbolizes an N3GPP SNF entity, e.g., at least similar to element E1 d of Fig. 10. In some examples, the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may, e.g., be implemented by the device 10' (Fig. 2) according to the disclosure. Element E15 symbolizes a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF). Element E16 symbolizes a subnetwork controller. Element E17 symbolizes aspects of a Non-3GPP Access, e.g., trusted or untrusted. Element E18 symbolizes a data network. Various interfaces between components of the example configuration of Fig. 11 are symbolized with reference signs N2, N3, N4, N6, Y1, Y2.

[0110] In some examples, see Fig. 11, the N3IWF E15 may be utilized to establish a secure connection between the subnetwork controller E16 (e.g., for a non-3GPP subnetwork) and the 3GPP network core. In some examples, Fig. 11, the N3GPP SNF entity E14, e.g., as a part of the SBA, may be used, e.g., may be responsible, for the discovery and configuration of the non-3GPP subnetwork, e.g., after a procedure associated with the N3IWF E15.

[0111] In some examples, see Fig. 11, a conventional N3IWF, e.g., according to a current 3GPP standard, may be used or may be extended, e.g., for implementing the principle of the disclosure, e.g., leveraging elements and / or interfaces that are already established for the conventional N3IWF operations.R.416577

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[0113] In some examples, the device 10' (Fig. 2) according to the disclosure may be used to implement at least some aspects of the N3IWF E15.

[0114] In some examples, see Fig. 11, the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may be configured to perform aspects of the disclosure, e.g., to adopt one or more roles similar to those of the N3GPPConv entity E2a of Fig. 10, thus, e.g., enabling the non-3GPP network, e.g., subnetwork, to be exposed to and / or configured by the N3GPP SNF entity E14. Thus, in some examples, Fig. 11, the N3IWF E15 may serve as a secure gateway, facilitating the connection between one or more non-3GPP networks, e.g., subnetworks, e.g., access networks, and the 3GPP Core.

[0115] In some examples, see Fig. 11, e.g., concurrently, upon verifying the N3IWF's status (e.g., successful connection establishment), the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may initiate one or more of the following aspects, e.g., actions:

[0116] a) Identifying the non-3GPP network's available functions and configurations, which may, e.g., vary depending on a respective hardware. In some examples, the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may be configured to trigger discovery mechanisms, such as, e.g., broadcast messages, within the non-3GPP subnetwork. In some examples, e.g., when using broadcast messages, the N3GPPConv entity (or a respective functionality as, e.g., implemented by the N3IWF E15) may, e.g., adapt the broadcasts messages, e.g., according to a specific protocol associated with the subnetwork (e.g., Bluetooth or Wi-Fi beacons). In some examples, this principle is, without loss of generality, also applicable to other protocols and / or communication mechanisms, e.g., other than the example discovery mechanisms mentioned above using broadcast messages.

[0117] b) Gathering measurement reports, e.g., from the non-3GPP subnetwork, such as Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), packet loss, etc. In other words, in some examples, the N3GPPConv entity (or a respective functionality as, e.g., implemented by the N3IWF E15) can be configured to enable a reporting of data, e.g., associated with an operation of at least one subnetwork. For example, establishing APIs such as REST, e.g., for repeatedly, e.g., frequently, collecting and / or reporting measured dataR.416577

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[0119] from at least one non-3GPP network, e.g., subnetwork, to the 3GPP network, may be provided in some examples.

[0120] c) Issuing Radio Resource Management (RRM) commands to the non-3GPP subnetwork.

[0121] In some examples, at least some of the abovementioned aspects a), b), c), such as, e.g., the aspect c) of issuing RRM commands may involve one or more decision-making processes that may be, e.g., based on, e.g., informed by, data collected according to aspect b), e.g., along with predefined data requirements. In some examples, this approach may enable to streamline an integration of one or more non-3GPP networks, e.g., as subnetworks 2 (Fig. 2), e.g., with the 3GPP core, and may also ensure that a management and configuration of these subnetworks may be dynamically adapted, e.g., based on at least one of a) realtime data, or b) specific operational criteria.

[0122] In some examples, the N3GPPConv entity (or a respective functionality as, e.g., implemented by the N3IWF E15 of Fig. 11) may act as a protocol gateway, e.g., to convert 3GPP commands (such as increase power / bandwidth and / or others) to the corresponding non-3GPP network, e.g. subnetwork, (e.g., Wi-Fi Modulation Coding Scheme, and the like).

[0123] Fig. 12 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of aspects of a first communication network suitable for integrating one or more subnetworks according to some examples, similar to Fig. 11. In difference to Fig. 11, however, in some examples, the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may be associated with, e.g., exchange information with, the UPF E13. In other words, in some examples, the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may be arranged "behind" the UPF E13, e.g., as seen from the subnetwork controller E16.

[0124] In some examples, see Fig. 12, the N3GPP SNF entity E14 may be provided in the form of an edge device, e.g., edge computing device, or its functionality, respectively, may, e.g., be implemented using an edge device. In some examples, at least some of the functionalities according to the disclosure, e.g., as explained above, may be provided in the form of software, e.g., application layer software.R.416577

[0125] - 17 -

[0126] Fig. 13 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of aspects of a first communication network suitable for integrating one or more subnetworks according to some examples, similar to Fig. 11. In difference to Fig. 11, however, in some examples, the N3GPP SNF entity or its functionality, respectively, may, e.g., be provided in communication with at least one of: a) the UPF E13, see block E14a of Fig. 13, or b) the 5G SBA E10, see block E14b, or c) the AMF E12, see block E14c.

[0127] In some examples, see Fig. 13, the subnetwork controller E16 may, e.g., be directly connected to the 3GPP network, e.g., via a respective radio access network, RAN, e.g., the 3GPP RAN E19.

[0128] In some examples, the principle according to the disclosure may be used to integrate non-3GPP subnetworks, e.g., based on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DECT, etc., into a 3GPP network framework. In some examples, the 3GPP network may function as a supervisory or parent network, e.g., for the one or more subnetworks. In some examples, this may enable an initiation of Radio Resource Management (RRM) configurations, e.g., from the 3GPP network, e.g., to the non-3GPP networks. Additionally, in some examples, the principle of the disclosure may enable to facilitate a reporting of network status, e.g., from non-3GPP networks, e.g., subnetworks, e.g., to the 3GPP network, thus, e.g., ensuring a seamless flow of information and control between the different networks.

[0129] Some examples, see Fig. 14, relate to a use 300 of the method of the disclosure and / or of the apparatus 200 of the disclosure and / or of the device 10, 10' of the disclosure and / or of the computer program PRG of the disclosure and / or of the data carrier signal DCS of the disclosure and / or of the computer-readable medium SM of the disclosure for at least one of: a) integrating 301 a non-3GPP based subnetwork 2 to a 3GPP network 1, or b) providing 302 a framework to enhance a flexibility for subnetworks, or c) expanding 303 connectivity options for subnetworks, or d) improving 304 a performance, e.g., an overall subnetwork performance, e.g., by combining aspects of 3GPP and non-3GPP technologies, or e) managing 305 subnetworks 2 from the first communication network 1, e.g., a core, e.g., core layer, of the first communication network 1.

Claims

R.416577- 18 -Claims1. A method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device (10) for a first communication network (1) of a first type, wherein the device (10) is configured to exchange information with at least one further device (20) associated with a second communication network (2) of a second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network (1), the method comprising:providing (100) a first functionality (FUN-1) configured to exchange (102; 102a; 102b) control signaling (CS) between the first communication network (1) and the second communication network (2), exchanging (102; 102a; 102b) the control signaling (CS) between the first communication network (1) and the second communication network (2) by means of the first functionality (FUN-1).

2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the first type is a wireless communication network according to and / or based on at least one third generation partnership project, 3GPP, standard, wherein for example the first communication network (1) is a 3GPP network.

3. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second type comprises at least one of:a) Wi-Fi, orb) Bluetooth, orc) DECT,wherein for example the second communication network (2) is a non-3GPP network.

4. The method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the control signaling (CS) comprises Radio Resource Management, RRM, signaling, e.g., RRM messages.R.416577- 19 -5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of:a) using (110) an application-layer based method (AL-M), e.g., for the exchanging (102) and / or a converting (102c) of the control signaling (CS), orb) using (112) at least one service (SVC), e.g., micro service, e.g., for providing at least one of b1) a protocol gateway (PGW), or b2) a middleware (MW), orc) using (114), e.g., only, a layer 2 functionality (L2-FLIN), e.g., for the exchanging (102) of the control signaling (CS)wherein for example the converting (102c) of the control signaling (CS) is performed by means of hardware (HW), e.g., hardware being configured to perform predetermined network protocol translations.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the application-layer based method (AL-M) comprises at least one of:a) a REST API, orb) a web socket, orc) an Advanced Message Queuing Protocol, ord) a Remote Procedure Call, e.g., with streaming.

7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising:providing (120), e.g., by the first functionality (FUN-1), a first, e.g., standardized, interface (I F-1 ), for information exchange with the first communication network (1),providing (122), e.g., by the first functionality (FUN-1), a second, interface (I F-2), for information exchange with the second communication network (2), wherein for example the second interface (I F-2) is customizable, e.g., for adaptation to the second communication network (2).

8. A method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a device (10') for a first communication network (1) of a first type, the method comprising:processing (150) information (l-SN) associated with at least a second communication network (2) of a second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network (1), wherein for example the first type is a wireless communication network according toR.416577- 20 -and / or based on at least one third generation partnership project, 3GPP, standard,wherein for example the first communication network (1) is a 3GPP network,wherein for example the second type comprises at least one of: a) Wi-Fi, or b) Bluetooth, or c) DECT,wherein for example the second communication network (2) is a non- 3GPP network.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the processing (150) at least temporarily comprises at least one of:a) identifying (150a) at least one ofa1) the second communication network (2), ora2) data associated with the second communication network (2), or b) managing (150b), e.g., configuring (150c) the second communication network (2), or c)gathering (150d) data from the second communication network (2).

10. The method according to any of the claims 8 to 9, comprising:providing (160) a first functionality (FLIN-T) configured to exchange (162) control signaling (CS) between the first communication network (1) and the second communication network (2),exchanging (162) the control signaling (CS) between the first communication network (1) and the second communication network (2) by means of the first functionality (FLIN-T), wherein for example the control signaling (CS) comprises Radio Resource Management, RRM, signaling, e.g., RRM messages.

11. The method according to any of the claims 8 to 10, comprising at least one of the following elements:a) establishing (170) a connection (CONN-2) to the second network (2), or b) determining (171), information (l-SN1) characterizing at least one of b1) functions, e.g., available functions, of the second network (2), or b2) a configuration of the second network (2), e.g., by using a discovery mechanism, e.g., using broadcast messages, e.g., within the second network (2), orR.416577- 21 -c) collecting, e.g., gathering, (172) measurement information associated with the second network (2), ord) providing (173) the control signaling (CS), e.g., in the form of Radio Resource Management commands, to the second network (2), or e) processing (174) at least a part of the information (l-SN, l-SN'), e.g., for making at least one decision associated with the second network (2).

12. The method according to any of the claims 8 to 11 , comprising:providing, e.g., performing, (180) a gateway function, e.g., protocol gateway function, (GW), e.g., for converting (182) at least one command (CMD-1) associated with the first network (1) to a corresponding command (CMD-2) for the second network (2).

13. An apparatus (200) for a first communication network (1) of a first type, wherein the apparatus (100) is configured to perform the method of any of the preceding claims.

14. A device (10; 10') for a first communication network (1) of a first type, wherein the device (10; 10') comprises an apparatus (200) according to claim 13, wherein for example the device (10; 10') is a network device.

15. A computer program (PRG) comprising instructions which, when the program (PRG) is executed by a computer (202), cause the computer (202) to perform the method according to any of the claims 1 to 12.

16. A data carrier signal (DCS) carrying and / or characterizing the computer program (PRG) according to claim 15.

17. A computer-readable storage medium (SM) comprising instructions (PRG) which, when executed by a computer (202), cause the computer (202) to perform the method according to any of the claims 1 to 12.

18. A use (300) of the method of any of the claims 1 to 12 and / or of the apparatus (200) of claim 13 and / or of the device (10; 10') of claim 14 and / or of the computer program (PRG) of claim 15 and / or of the data carrier signal (DCS) of claim 16 and / or of the computer-readable medium (SM) of claim 17 for at least one of:R.416577- 22 -a) integrating (301) a non-3GPP based subnetwork (2) to a 3GPP network (1), orb) providing (302) a framework to enhance a flexibility for subnetworks (2), orc) expanding (303) connectivity options for subnetworks (2), or d) improving (304) a performance, e.g., an overall subnetwork performance, e.g., by combining aspects of 3GPP and non-3GPP technologies, ore) managing (305) subnetworks (2) from the first communication network (1), e.g., a core, e.g., core layer, of the first communication network (1).

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