A method and an apparatus for a communication network
The method and apparatus enable efficient integration and management of non-3GPP subnetworks into 3GPP networks by establishing connections, exchanging information, and using Non-3GPP InterWorking Functions, enhancing flexibility, connectivity, and performance.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-07-30
AI Technical Summary
Existing communication networks face challenges in efficiently integrating and managing non-3GPP subnetworks, such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, due to differences in technology standards and resource management, leading to interoperability issues and suboptimal performance.
A method and apparatus that facilitate the integration of non-3GPP subnetworks into a 3GPP network by establishing connections, exchanging information, determining resource information, and using Non-3GPP InterWorking Functions to manage and configure these subnetworks, leveraging machine learning for optimization.
Enhances flexibility, connectivity, and overall performance by seamlessly integrating non-3GPP subnetworks into 3GPP networks, improving resource allocation and interoperability through standardized communication and management protocols.
Smart Images
Figure EP2026050941_30072026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] R.416580
[0002] - 1 -
[0003] A Method and an Apparatus for a Communication Network
[0004] Technical Field
[0005] The disclosure relates to a method 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 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, optionally exchanging first information with the second communication network. Here, the second type is preferably different from the first type. In some examples, this enables to efficiently integrate one or more subnetworks into the first communication network.
[0009] In some examples, 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, e.g., of the 3G or 4G or 5G or 6G type.
[0010] In some examples, the second type comprises at least one of: a) Wi-Fi, or b) Bluetooth, orc) DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications), wherein for example the second communication network is a non-3GPP network.
[0011] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) configuring the second communication network, or b) sending at least oneR.416580
[0012] - 2 -
[0013] request to the second communication network, wherein for example the at least one request is associated with at least one of b1) a resource allocation for the second communication network, or b2) a configuration of at least one component of the second communication network.
[0014] In some examples, the method comprises: establishing a connection between the second communication network and the first communication network, for example establishing a connection between the second communication network and a core of the first communication network, for example by using a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function, and, optionally, using the connection for exchanging information between at least one component of the first communication network and at least one component of the second communication network.
[0015] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of: a) determining, e.g., identifying, at least one of a1) functions, e.g., available functions, of the second communication network, or a2) at least one configuration of the second communication network, or b) determining, e.g., assessing, whether the second communication network allows for configuration management, or c) using at least one model, for example machine learning model,, e.g., large language model, e.g., for the determining.
[0016] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of: a) receiving, e.g., collecting, at least one report, e.g., measurement report, from the second communication network, wherein for example the at least one report characterizes at least one of: a1) a Received Signal Strength Indicator, RSSI, or a2) a packet loss, or a3) at least one, e.g., further, performance indicator associated with the second communication network, or b) storing data associated with the second communication network, e.g., using a data storage entity associated with the first communication network, such as, e.g., a unified data management entity or a unified data repository or a network repository function, or c) exchanging data associated with the second communication network with at least one further entity, for example a Network Data Analysis Function.
[0017] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of: a) allocating resources for the second communication network, or b) issuing commands, e.g., Radio Resource Management, RRM, commands to the second communication network.R.416580
[0018] - 3 -
[0019] In some examples, the method comprises: determining resource information associated with the second communication network, transforming at least one aspect of the resource information associated with the second communication network to at least one resource domain of the first communication network, and, optionally, allocating the resources for the second communication network based on the resource information.
[0020] In some examples, the method comprises: providing, e.g., maintaining, mapping information characterizing a mapping of resources associated with the first communication network to resources associated with the second communication network, for example organizing the mapping information in form of a table, and, optionally, using the mapping information for allocating resources for the second communication network.
[0021] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of: a) providing resource information associated with the first communication network, e.g., associated with at least one traffic flow of the first communication network, to the second communication network, or b) providing information related to quality of service requirements of the first communication network to the second communication network.
[0022] In some examples, the method comprises at least one of: a) extending a or the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function, e.g., to perform at least one aspect of the method according to the disclosure, whereby, for example, an extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function is obtained, e.g., using a or the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function or the extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function for performing at least one aspect of the disclosure, or b) using at least one of b1) an existing interface, e.g., N2 interface, e.g., to an Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF, or b2) a, for example newly defined, interface N3I for exchanging information between at least one of A) the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function or B) the extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function and the Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF.R.416580
[0023] - 4 -
[0024] 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.
[0025] 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, wherein for example the network device is configured to implement aspects of at least one of: a) a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function, or b) a non-3GPP subnetwork management function.
[0026] 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.
[0027] Some examples relate to a data carrier signal carrying and / or characterizing the computer program according to the disclosure.
[0028] 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.
[0029] Some examples relate to a use of the method according to the disclosure and / or of the apparatus according to the disclosure and / or of the device according to the disclosure and / or of the computer program according to the disclosure and / or of the data carrier signal according to the disclosure and / or of the computer-readable medium according to 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.416580
[0030] - 5 -
[0031] Brief Description of Example Figures
[0032] Some example embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0033] Fig. 1 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0034] Fig. 2 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,
[0035] Fig. 3 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0036] Fig. 4 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0037] Fig. 5 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0038] Fig. 6 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0039] Fig. 7 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0040] Fig. 8 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0041] Fig. 9 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0042] Fig. 10 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0043] Fig. 11 schematically depicts a simplified flow-chart,
[0044] Fig. 12 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,
[0045] Fig. 13 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,
[0046] Fig. 14 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram,
[0047] Fig. 15 schematically depicts example aspects of use.R.416580
[0048] - 6 -
[0049] Some examples, see, for example, Fig. 1 , 2, relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a first communication network 1 (Fig. 2) of a first type, the method comprising: processing 100 (Fig. 1) information l-SN associated with at least a second communication network 2 (Fig. 2) of a different second type which at least temporarily forms a subnetwork of the first communication network 1, optionally exchanging 102 (Fig. 1) first information 1-1 with the second communication network 2. In some examples, this enables to efficiently integrate one or more subnetworks 2 into the first communication network 1.
[0050] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 2, 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, e.g., of the 3G or 4G or 5G or 6G type.
[0051] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 2, the second type comprises at least one of: a) Wi-Fi, or b) Bluetooth, or c) DECT, or d) other type, wherein for example the second communication network 2 is a non-3GPP network.
[0052] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 1, the optional exchanging 102 may, e.g., comprise receiving 102a information, e.g., data, from the second communication network 2.
[0053] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 1, the optional exchanging 102 may, e.g., comprise transmitting 102b information, e.g., data, to the second communication network 2.
[0054] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 1, the optional exchanging 102 may, e.g., comprise converting 102c information, e.g., data, which is exchanged between the communication networks 1, 2. In some examples, the converting 102c may, e.g., comprise converting at least a portion of data exchanged between the communication networks 1, 2 from a first type or format of data, e.g., associated with the first communication network 1, to a second type or format of data, e.g., associated with the second communication network 2, and / or vice versa.R.416580
[0055] - 7 -
[0056] The optional block 104 of Fig. 1 symbolizes an optional (further) exchange of information, e.g., data, between the first communication network 1 and the second communication network 2, e.g., while the second communication network 2 operates as a subnetwork for the first communication network 1.
[0057] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 1, the information or data, respectively, that may be exchanged according to optional block 104, may, e.g., comprise control signaling CS, e.g., for at least temporarily controlling at least one aspect of the second communication network, e.g., subnetwork, 2 and / or of a device 20 for the second communication network 2, e.g., by the first communication network 1.
[0058] In some examples, see, for example, 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 a device 10 for the first communication network 1. 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.
[0059] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 2, the device 10 may be a network device or entity, respectively, for the first communication network 1.
[0060] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 3, the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) configuring 110 the second communication network 2, or b) sending 112 at least one request REQ to the second communication network 2, wherein for example the at least one request REQ is associated with at least one of b1) a resource allocation for the second communication network 2, or b2) a configuration of at least one component 20 of the second communication network 2 (and / or a configuration of the second communication network 2).
[0061] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 4, the method comprises: establishing 120 a connection CONN-1-2 between the second communication network 2 and the first communication network 1, for example establishing 120a a connection between the second communication network 2 and a core 1-CORE of the firstR.416580
[0062] - 8 -
[0063] communication network 1, for example by using 120b a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF, and, optionally, using 122 the connection CONN-1-2 for exchanging information between at least one component of the first communication network 1 and at least one component of the second communication network 2.
[0064] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 5, the method comprises at least one of: a) determining 130, e.g., identifying 130a, at least one of a1) functions 2-FUN, e.g., available functions, of the second communication network 2, or a2) at least one configuration 2-CFG of the second communication network 2, or b) determining 132, e.g., assessing, whether the second communication network 2 allows for configuration management, or c) using 134 at least one model, for example machine learning model, MLM, e.g., large language model, e.g., for the determining 132.
[0065] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 6, the method comprises at least one of: a) receiving 140, e.g., collecting 140a, at least one report 2-REP, e.g., measurement report, from the second communication network 2, wherein for example the at least one report 2-REP characterizes at least one of: a1) a Received Signal Strength Indicator, RSSI, or a2) a packet loss, or a3) at least one, e.g., further, performance indicator, e.g., key performance indicator, associated with the second communication network 2, or b) storing 142 data 2-DAT associated with the second communication network 2, e.g., using 142a a data storage entity 1-DSE associated with the first communication network 1, such as, e.g., a unified data management entity or a unified data repository or a network repository function, or c) exchanging 144 data, e.g., the data, 2-DAT associated with the second communication network 2 with at least one further entity, for example a Network Data Analysis Function, NWDAF (Fig. 2).
[0066] In some examples, the method may comprise receiving the data 2-DAT, e.g., by the first communication network 1 , e.g., by the device 10 and / or by the apparatus 200, e.g., from the subnetwork 2.
[0067] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 7, the method comprises at least one of: a) allocating 150 resources RES for the second communication network 2, orR.416580
[0068] - 9 -
[0069] b) issuing 152 commands CMD, e.g., Radio Resource Management, RRM, commands to the second communication network 2.
[0070] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 8, the method comprises: determining 155 resource information 2-l-RES associated with the second communication network 2 (e.g., characterizing available resources and / or used resources of the second communication network 2), transforming 157 at least one aspect of the resource information 2-l-RES associated with the second communication network 2 to at least one resource domain of the first communication network 1 (e.g., from a resource domain of the second communication network 2), and, optionally, allocating 159 the resources RES for the second communication network 2 based on the resource information 2-l-RES and / or transformed resource information as, e.g., obtained by block 157 of Fig. 8.
[0071] As an example, if the subnetwork 2, e.g., represents a Wi-Fi communication network, a resource domain associated with frequency resources of the subnetwork 2 may, e.g., describe or characterize frequency channels of the subnetwork 2, whereas for the first communication network 1, e.g., being a 3GPP network, a resource domain may describe or characterize physical resource blocks, subcarriers, bandwidth parts, or similar structures specific to the 3GPP network 1.
[0072] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 9, the method comprises: providing 160, e.g., maintaining 160a, mapping information l-MAP characterizing a mapping of resources 1-RES associated with the first communication network 1 to resources 2-RES associated with the second communication network 2, for example organizing 160b the mapping information l-MAP in form of a table, and, optionally, using 162 the mapping information l-MAP for allocating resources RES for the second communication network 2. In some examples, the mapping information l-MAP may, e.g., characterize aspects of the block 157 of transforming of Fig. 8.
[0073] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 10, the method comprises at least one of: a) providing 170 resource information l-RES-1 associated with the first communication network 1, e.g., associated with at least one traffic flow of the first communication network 1, to the second communication network 2, or b)R.416580
[0074] - 10 -
[0075] providing 172 information l-QoS-1, related to quality of service (QoS) requirements of the first communication network 1 to the second communication network 2. In some examples, this enables to notify the second communication network 2, which may at least temporarily represent a subnetwork of the first communication network 1, of aspects of resource usage and / or QoS of the first communication network 1. In some examples, such information may be used by at least one component or device 20, respectively, of the subnetwork 2, e.g., for a local resource planning and / or allocation, thus, e.g., reducing interference and / or improving an interoperability of the networks 1, 2.
[0076] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 11, the method comprises at least one of: a) extending 180 a or the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF (Fig. 2), e.g., to perform at least one aspect of the method according to the disclosure, whereby, for example, an extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF' is obtained, e.g., using 180a a or the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF or the extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF' for performing at least one aspect of the disclosure, or b) using 182 at least one of b1) an existing interface, e.g., N2 interface (see Fig. 14 explained further below), e.g., to an Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF E4 (also see Fig. 14), or b2) a, for example newly defined, interface N3I for exchanging information between at least one of A) the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF or B) the extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF' and the Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF.
[0077] Some examples, see, for example, Fig. 2 and / or Fig. 12, 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.
[0078] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 12, 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.R.416580
[0079] - 11 -
[0080] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 12, the at least one calculating unit 202 may comprise at least one of the following elements: a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a 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). According to further examples, any combination of two or more of these elements is also possible.
[0081] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 12, 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.
[0082] In some examples, 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 information l-SN, or b) the control signaling CS, or c) the first information 1-1, or d) at least one further aspect REQ, 2-REP, 2-DAT, CMD, ..., may at least temporarily be stored in the RAM 204a.
[0083] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 12, 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.
[0084] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 12, 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 networks 1, 2), e.g. over a (virtual) private computer network and / or a public computer network such as e.g. the Internet.R.416580
[0085] - 12 -
[0086] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 12, the data carrier signal DCS may represent or carry the computer program PRG according to the disclosure, or at least a part thereof.
[0087] 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.
[0088] Fig. 13 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of aspects of a first communication network 1 (Fig. 2) suitable for integrating one or more subnetworks 2 according to some examples. Element E1 symbolizes a functionality or entity that may be denoted as non-3GPP subnetwork management function N3SNMF (Fig. 2), which, in some examples, may, e.g., be implemented using at least one of the apparatus 200 or the device 10. As an example, returning to Fig. 13, the non-3GPP subnetwork management function E1 may, e.g., form part of a 3GPP Service-Based Architecture, SBA, of the 3GPP network 1 (Fig. 2).
[0089] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, a, for example conventional, Subnetwork Management Function E2, e.g., for managing 3GPP subnetworks (not shown), may be provided.
[0090] Element E3 of Fig. 13 depicts example aspects of 3GPP network functions that may be provided according to some examples, the network functions E3, e.g., comprising at least one of: a) NSSF (Network Slice Selection Function), b) ALISF (Authentication Server Function), orc) UDM (Unified Data Management), ...
[0091] Element E4 of Fig. 13 symbolizes a session management function (SMF).
[0092] Element E5 symbolizes an access and mobility management function (AMF). Element E6 symbolizes a user plane function (UPF). Element E7 symbolizes a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function, also see block N3IWF of Fig. 2. Element E8 of Fig. 13 aspects of a Non-3GPP Access, e.g., trusted or untrusted. Element E9 symbolizes a subnetwork controller, e.g., associated with the subnetwork 2 (Fig.
[0093] 2). Element E10 symbolizes a data network. Various interfaces between components of the example configuration of Fig. 13 are symbolized with reference signs N2, N3, N4, N6, Y1, Y2.R.416580
[0094] - 13 -
[0095] In some examples, the example configuration of Fig. 13 may, e.g., be used to perform at least one of the following aspects:
[0096] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, the entity E1 (e.g., N3SNMF entity) may form an architectural component, which may be integrated directly into the 3GPP Service-Based Architecture, e.g., alongside other functions E3, E4, .... As already mentioned above, a, for example conventional, Non-3GPP InterWorking Function N3IWF may be provided, see block E7 of Fig. 13, and may be used as a, for example secure, gateway, e.g., enabling connections between non-3GPP communication networks 2, e.g., access networks (like WLAN) and the 3GPP network 1, e.g., a core 1-CORE (Fig. 2) of the 3GPP network 1.
[0097] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, the entity E1 is configured to configure non-3GPP networks 2 (and / or components, e.g., devices 20, thereof (Fig. 2)) and / or to send request(s) REQ and / or information to the non-3GPP networks 2.
[0098] In some examples, one or more of the following aspects may be performed in association with, e.g., at least partly by, the entity E1:
[0099] a) Example aspects related to initiation: In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, entity E7 (N3IWF) may establish a connection between a non-3GPP network, e.g., subnetwork, 2 (Fig. 2) and the 3GPP core 1-CORE, also see block 120 of Fig. 4. In some examples, e.g., following this, elements within the SBA, such as, e.g., AMF E5 and / or SMF E4 may, e.g., prompt the N3SNMF entity E1 to start an initial action and, e.g., to kick off a procedure through the SBA, e.g., for processing information l-SN associated with the subnetwork 2.
[0100] b) Example aspects related to Identification: In some examples, the entity E1 may, e.g., identify the available functions 2-FUN and / or configurations 2-CFG of the non-3GPP network, e.g., subnetwork, 2, which may, e.g., vary based on a hardware used by the subnetwork 2, also see block 130 of Fig. 5. In some examples, the subnetwork 2 may, e.g., include or comprise or represent a network operating on Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth, or DECT, etc.R.416580
[0101] - 14 -
[0102] c) Example aspects related to configuration management: In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, the entity E1 (N3SNMF) may assess if the non- 3GPP subnetwork 2 allows for network configuration management, which may, e.g., depend on factors like a software version, available APIs, and vendor information. At this stage, the entity E1 may, e.g., interface with at least one further, e.g., architectural, component of the 3GPP network 1 (or external to the network 1), such as, for example, a machine learning model MLM (Fig. 2), e.g., to leverage Large-Language Models (LLM) capabilities for at least one aspect of the configuration management, also see block 134 of Fig. 5.
[0103] d) Example aspects related to data collection: In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, the entity E1 may collect measurement reports 2-REP (also see block 140 of Fig. 6) from the non-3GPP subnetwork 2, such as Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), packet loss, etc. In some examples, the entity E1 may also at least temporarily interact with other 3GPP network elements (see, for example, block 1-DSE of Fig. 2) to store data, e.g., from the non-3GPP network, e.g., subnetwork 2. In some examples, one or more new interfaces, e.g., between a Network Data Analysis Function (NWDAF) and the entity E1 may be introduced, e.g., to exchange data associated with at least one of: a) measurements, or b) data analysis, or c) user data, etc.
[0104] e) Example aspects related to resource management: In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 13, the entity E1 (also see block N3SNMF of Fig. 2) may issue Radio Resource Management commands (also see block 152 of Fig. 7) to the non-3GPP subnetwork 2. In some examples, the RRM commands CMD may be determined based on at least one decision-making process that may, e.g., leverage collected data (e.g., as characterized by at least one of the elements l-SN, 1-1, 2-REP, 2-CFG, 2-DAT, ...) and, optionally, one or more predefined data requirements. In some examples, one or more optimization procedures may be applied, e.g., using the gathered data. In some examples, the entity E1 may, e.g., allocate resources for a 3GPP part of the subnetwork 2, e.g., considering already allocated resources in non- 3GPP networks 2. For this, in some examples, the entity E1 may be configured to interact with non-3GPP networks 2 and translate their resource allocation to the 3GPP domain of the first communication network 1, also seeR.416580
[0105] - 15 -
[0106] block 157 of Fig. 8. For example, a user traffic can be considered "best effort with lowest priority" in a subnetwork 2 according to or based on IEEE 802.11, therefore, in some examples, the entity E1 (Fig. 13) may be configured to transform, e.g., translate, this user traffic criterion of the subnetwork 2 to a corresponding requirement of the 3GPP network 1, e.g., estimating a delay of a packet in Wi-Fi and, based on that estimation, allocating resources in at least one of the networks 1 , 2, or for example, request for resources from a parent base station, e.g., gNB, e.g., to allocate resources. In some examples, a table for mapping between non-3GPP and 3GPP requirements, such as, e.g., Quality of Service (QoS) requirements, may be defined, where different QoS classes may be translated between 3GPP and non-3GPP communication, also see blocks 160, 162 of Fig. 9. In some examples, the entity E1 (Fig. 13) may be configured to communicate a resource allocation or QoS requirements of a flow, e.g., of the 3GPP network 1, to the non-3GPP subnetwork(s) 2, thereby, e.g., influencing their decision-making processes.
[0107] Fig. 14 schematically depicts a simplified block diagram of aspects of a first communication network 1 (Fig. 2) suitable for integrating one or more subnetworks 2 according to some examples, e.g., similar to Fig. 13. In difference to Fig. 13, in the example configuration of Fig. 14, a 5G SBA of the 3GPP network 1 is symbolized by block E11. Also different from Fig. 13, in the example configuration of Fig. 14, the N3IWF entity E7 (Fig. 13) or its functionality, respectively, is integrated into the entity E1 of Fig. 14. In other words, the N3SNMF entity E1 of Fig. 14 comprises at least some aspects of a, for example conventional, N3IWF entity E7, or a respective functionality. In some other examples, however, it is also possible to extend a conventional N3IWF entity E7 to form element E1 of Fig. 14, e.g., by extending the conventional N3IWF entity E7 to be configured to perform at least some aspects of the disclosure.
[0108] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 14, at least some aspects of the element E1 may, e.g., be performed by at least one of the apparatus 200 (Fig. 2) according to the disclosure or the device 10 according to the disclosure. In some examples, this also applies to element E1 of Fig. 13.
[0109] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 14, an N2 interface may be used for information exchange between the entity E1 and the AMF entity E5. In someR.416580
[0110] - 16 -
[0111] other examples, however, e.g., alternatively or additionally to the N2 interface between the elements E1, E5, a, for example newly defined, interface N3I may be provided for information exchange between the entity E1 and the AMF entity E5.
[0112] In some examples, see, for example, Fig. 2, relate to a device 10 for a first communication network 1 of a first type, wherein the device 10 comprises an apparatus 200 according to the disclosure, wherein for example the device 10 is a network device, wherein for example the network device 10 is configured to implement aspects of at least one of: a) a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function, also see element E7 of Fig. 13, 14, or b) a non-3GPP subnetwork management function, also see element E1 of Fig. 13, 14.
[0113] In some examples, the principle according to the disclosure enables to at least temporarily use a 3GPP network 1 (Fig. 2) as a supervisory or parent, e.g., for one or more subnetworks 2, e.g., non-3GPP sub-networks, e.g., allowing the parent 3GPP network 1 to configure and / or manage the non-3GPP subnetworks 2. In some examples, this may enable a seamless communication and / or control between the two networks 1, 2. In some examples, aspects of the disclosure may, e.g., enable to provide a framework that may help to enhance subnetwork flexibility, increase connectivity options, and improve overall performance, e.g., by leveraging the strengths of both 3GPP and non-3GPP technologies.
[0114] Some examples, see, for example, Fig. 15, relate to a use 300 of the method according to the disclosure and / or of the apparatus 200 according to the disclosure and / or of the device 10 according to the disclosure and / or of the computer program PRG according to the disclosure and / or of the data carrier signal DCS according to the disclosure and / or of the computer-readable medium SM according to 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 2, or c) 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, or e) managing 305 subnetworks 2 from the first communication network 1, e.g., a core 1-CORE, e.g., core layer, of the first communication network 1.
Claims
R.416580- 17 -Claims1. A method, for example a computer-implemented method, for a first communication network (1) of a first type, the method comprising:processing (100) 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), optionally exchanging (102) first information (1-1) with the second communication network (2).
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, comprising at least one of the following elements:a) configuring (110) the second communication network (2), orb) sending (112) at least one request (REQ) to the second communication network (2), wherein for example the at least one request (REQ) is associated with at least one ofb1) a resource allocation for the second communication network (2), or b2) a configuration of at least one component (20) of the second communication network (2).R.416580- 18 -5. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising:establishing (120) a connection (CONN-2-1) between the second communication network (2) and the first communication network (1), for example establishing (120a) a connection (CONN-2-1) between the second communication network (2) and a core (1-CORE) of the first communication network (1), for example by using (120b) a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF), and,optionally, using (122) the connection (CONN-2-1) for exchanging information between at least one component of the first communication network (1) and at least one component (20) of the second communication network (2).
6. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of:a) determining (130), e.g., identifying (130a), at least one ofa1) functions, e.g., available functions, (2-FUN) of the second communication network (2), ora2) at least one configuration (2-CFG) of the second communication network (2), orb) determining (132), e.g., assessing, whether the second communication network (2) allows for configuration management, orc) using (134) at least one model, for example machine learning model, (MLM), e.g., large language model, e.g., for the determining (130, 132).
7. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of:a) receiving (140), e.g., collecting (140a), at least one report (2-REP), e.g., measurement report, from the second communication network (2), wherein for example the at least one report (2-REP) characterizes at least one of:a1) a Received Signal Strength Indicator, RSSI, ora2) a packet loss, ora3) at least one, e.g., further, performance indicator associated with the second communication network (2), orb) storing (142) data (2-DAT) associated with the second communication network (2), e.g., using (142a) a data storage entity (1-DSE) associated with the first communication network (1), such as, e.g., a unified dataR.416580- 19 -management entity or a unified data repository or a network repository function, orc) exchanging (144) data (2-DAT) associated with the second communication network (2) with at least one further entity, for example a Network Data Analysis Function (NWDAF).
8. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of:a) allocating (150) resources (RES) for the second communication network (2), orb) issuing (152) commands, e.g., Radio Resource Management, RRM, commands (CMD) to the second communication network (2).
9. The method according to claim 8, comprising:determining (155) resource information (2-l-RES) associated with the second communication network (2),transforming (157) at least one aspect of the resource information (2-l- RES) associated with the second communication network (2) to at least one resource domain of the first communication network (1), and, optionally, allocating (159) the resources (RES) for the second communication network (2) based on the resource information (2-l-RES).
10. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising:providing (160), e.g., maintaining (160a), mapping information (l-MAP) characterizing a mapping of resources (1-RES) associated with the first communication network (1) to resources (2-RES) associated with the second communication network (2), for example organizing (160b) the mapping information (l-MAP) in form of a table, and,optionally, using (162) the mapping information (l-MAP) for allocating resources (RES) for the second communication network (2).
11. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of:a) providing (170) resource information (l-RES-1) associated with the first communication network (1), e.g., associated with at least one traffic flow of the first communication network (1), to the second communication network (2), orR.416580- 20 -b) providing (172) information (l-QoS-1) related to quality of service requirements of the first communication network (1) to the second communication network (2).
12. The method according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of:a) extending (180) a or the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF), e.g., to perform at least one aspect of the method according to any of the preceding claims, whereby, for example, an extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF1) is obtained, e.g., using (180a) a or the Non- 3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF) or the extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF1) for performing at least one aspect of any of the preceding claims, orb) using (182) at least one ofb1) an existing interface, e.g., N2 interface, e.g., to an Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF, orb2) a, for example newly defined, interface N3I for exchanging information between at least one of A) the Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF) or B) the extended Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF1) and the Access and Mobility Management Function, AMF.
13. An apparatus (200) for a first communication network (1) of a first type, wherein the apparatus (200) is configured to perform the method of any of the preceding claims.
14. A device (10) for a first communication network (1) of a first type, wherein the device (10) comprises an apparatus (200) according to claim 13, wherein for example the device (10) is a network device, wherein for example the network device (10) is configured to implement aspects of at least one of: a) a Non-3GPP InterWorking Function (N3IWF), orb) a non-3GPP subnetwork management function (N3SNMF).
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.R.416580- 21 -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) 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: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 (1 -CORE), e.g., core layer, of the first communication network (1).