Proactive Data Collection Activation in 5G NWDAF
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Solution Overview
Problem
The Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) in 5G systems faces delays in data collection and inefficiencies due to starting data collection only after receiving an analytics subscription request, leading to missed data opportunities and increased processing loads, especially when dealing with large numbers of unregistered or non-executing User Equipments (UEs).
Innovation Solution
A method and system for activating data collection for analytics by registering analytic information across multiple network functions, including identifying UEs and analytic criteria, allowing data collection to begin proactively before subscription requests are received, and deactivating when criteria are no longer met, thereby optimizing data collection and reducing signaling loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If data collection is started only after receiving an analytics subscription request, then the NWDAF processing load is reduced, but data collection delays occur and data loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by registering analytic information and initiating data collection before actual analytics subscription requests are received. The NWDAF pre-configures data collection parameters, identifies target UEs, and establishes monitoring mechanisms in advance, so that when requests arrive, data collection can immediately begin without delay or additional processing overhead.
2Reliability
If data collection is activated for all UEs, then data availability improves, but signaling load and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making data collection selective rather than universal. Analytic information is registered for specific UEs or UE groups based on local conditions and requirements. The system identifies and monitors only those UEs that meet specific criteria (e.g., unregistered UEs, UEs in specific locations), concentrating monitoring resources where they are most needed rather than applying uniform monitoring to all UEs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the UE population into different categories based on their registration status and analytical relevance. Separate handling is applied to registered versus unregistered UEs, with specific identification and monitoring procedures for each segment. This segmentation allows the system to manage data collection for large numbers of UEs without overwhelming signaling loads.
3Measurement precision
If analytic information is registered across multiple network functions, then data collection accuracy improves, but information management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a standardized analytic information registration mechanism that can be implemented across multiple network functions (AMF, SMF, PCF, UDM, NRF, NSSF, OAM). The same registration and identification procedures work universally for different NF types, allowing consistent data collection accuracy without requiring complex, NF-specific implementation details at each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of activating data collection for an analytic at a first network function comprises registering at the first network function information relating to an analytic, wherein the information relating to the analytic comprises information identifying a user equipment, UE, information identifying the analytic, and at least one analytic criterion that is associated with the analytic (502). The method also involves registering at a second network function the information relating to the analytic (504). The method also involves, at a third network function, receiving initiation information corresponding to the UE, and communicating the initiation information to the second network function (506). The method also involves communicating from the second network function to the third network function, at least a part of the information relating to the analytic, wherein the at least a part of the information relating to the analytic comprises the at least one analytic criterion (508). The method also involves, responsive to the UE meeting the at least one analytic criterion, communicating from the third network function to the first network function a request that data collection be activated for the analytic (510). The method also involves activating data collection for the analytic at the first network function (512).