UE Selection Criteria for Automated MDT Network Measurements
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing network test equipment for telecommunication systems, particularly in 5G networks, is labor-intensive, leading to high costs and inefficiencies in network optimization, as traditional drive tests require significant manpower and resources.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for selecting User Equipment (UE) for Minimization of Drive Tests (MDT) based on predefined criteria and user consent, allowing for efficient data collection without manual intervention, using RAN, CN, and management systems to identify suitable UEs for MDT operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional drive tests are used for network optimization, then network coverage can be measured, but significant manpower and resources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtual copies of network test equipment embedded in mobile devices (UEs) to perform MDT measurements. Instead of deploying physical test trucks and engineers, the system leverages the sensing and communication capabilities of commercially available mobile devices as virtual probes, thereby eliminating the need for dedicated test equipment and manual operations while maintaining measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
Mobile devices perform self-measurement of network parameters (signal strength, quality, location) and automatically report data to the network operator. The UEs act as autonomous measurement units that collect MDT data during normal operation without requiring external intervention, thus eliminating the need for manual drive tests while maintaining comprehensive network coverage assessment.
2Measurement precision
If more test equipment is purchased to improve measurement capabilities, then network optimization accuracy improves, but costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes mobile devices serve multiple functions: they act as both user communication terminals and network measurement probes. The same device that provides telecommunication services also performs MDT measurements, eliminating the need for separate dedicated test equipment. This multi-functionality approach allows the network operator to leverage the existing庞大 base of mobile devices for measurement purposes without additional hardware procurement.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of purchasing physical test equipment, the system deploys virtual measurement capabilities within mobile devices. The MDT functionality is implemented as software modules that run on commercially available devices, creating virtual copies of measurement functions that eliminate the need for physical test equipment procurement while maintaining measurement accuracy.
3Productivity
If MDT is implemented without user consent, then data collection efficiency improves, but user privacy concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The system obtains user consent in advance through privacy policies and permission mechanisms before deploying MDT functionality. The consent process is performed preliminarily during device setup or service activation, ensuring that users are informed and agree to data collection before any measurements are taken. This preliminary action resolves the contradiction by establishing legal and ethical groundwork for efficient data collection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where users can review, approve, or revoke consent for MDT data collection. The network operator receives feedback about user consent status and adjusts data collection accordingly. This feedback loop maintains data collection efficiency for consenting users while respecting user privacy rights by excluding non-consenting devices, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and privacy protection.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is related to a RAN node, a management system, a CN node, and methods for UE selection for MDT. A method at a RAN node for selecting one or more UEs for MDT comprises: receiving UE selection information indicating one or more criteria for selecting UEs for MDT; and selecting the one or more UEs for MDT based on at least the received UE selection information.