NWDAF Analytics for UE Cell Re-Selection Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems, particularly those following 3GPP standards, face challenges in efficiently managing and optimizing the performance of massive Internet of Things (mIoT) devices due to varying service requirements and energy efficiency needs, especially in scenarios with infrequent data transmissions and low power consumption.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF) and Access and Mobility Function (AMF) that collect and utilize analytics information from User Equipment (UE) for cell re-selection events, enabling network optimization and performance improvement by matching analytics data with exceptions and taking corrective actions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional mobile networks are used for IoT applications, then basic connectivity is provided, but data transmission efficiency and power consumption optimization are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission efficiencyVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes network parameters dynamically based on UE analytics data. The NWDAF collects analytics information about UE behavior patterns and uses this to optimize network parameters such as data transmission schedules and power consumption settings, resolving the contradiction between transmission efficiency and power usage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback loop where the NWDAF continuously collects analytics information from UEs about their data transmission patterns and power consumption, analyzes this data, and provides optimized parameter recommendations back to the network. This closed-loop feedback system enables continuous improvement of both transmission efficiency and power optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If network collects detailed analytics information from UEs, then network optimization capability is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork optimization capabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the analytics system into distinct functional modules: the NWDAF for data collection and analysis, and the AMF for receiving analytics information and implementing optimizations. This segmentation allows each component to focus on specific tasks, improving reliability while managing system complexity through modular architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces the NWDAF as an intermediary function between the UEs and the network core. The NWDAF collects analytics information from UEs, processes this data, and provides optimized recommendations to the AMF and other network functions. This intermediary approach improves optimization capability while isolating complexity within the NWDAF module.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Duration of action of moving object

If mIoT devices communicate infrequently to save energy, then battery life is extended, but data transmission efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery lifeVSAvoiddata transmission efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses the NWDAF to collect analytics information about UE behavior patterns in advance. Based on this preliminary analysis, the system can predict when data transmissions are likely to occur and proactively optimize network parameters before actual transmissions happen, ensuring both energy efficiency and transmission efficiency are maintained.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic parameter adjustment based on real-time analytics. The network continuously monitors UE behavior through the NWDAF and dynamically adjusts transmission parameters and power settings according to actual usage patterns, allowing the system to adapt between infrequent communication modes and efficient data transmission modes as needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3857824B1Network data analytics function, access and mobility function, and control method for UE analytics assistance for network automation and optimisation
Publication Date: 2024.11.06 NEC CORP
  • EP3857824B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3857824B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3857824B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A Network Data Analytics Function, NWDAF, includes: means for receiving analytics information regarding cell re-selection by User Equipment, UE, among cells; and means for notifying another network node of matching the analytics information with an exception so that the other network node takes actions for solving the exception.