UE Trajectory Data Collection via MDT Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack mechanisms to expose User Equipment (UE) trajectory data to Operation Administration and Maintenance (OAM) within the Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN), hindering offline training for UE trajectory prediction.
Innovation Solution
A mechanism is proposed to collect UE trajectory data at OAM by transmitting an activation indication for trajectory collection to the Radio Access Network (RAN) device, configuring Minimization of Drive Tests (MDT) measurements, and forwarding collected trajectory information from the UE to OAM.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If UE trajectory data collection mechanism is implemented in NG-RAN, then OAM can obtain necessary input data for trajectory prediction models, but the network architecture and data collection process become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary data collection mechanism where the RAN device acts as a mediator between the UE and OAM. The RAN device receives configuration from OAM, configures MDT measurements on the UE, collects trajectory data, and forwards it to OAM. This intermediary approach enables data collection without requiring direct UE-OAM communication, thus managing architectural complexity while improving data availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages the existing MDT (Minimization of Drive Tests) measurement framework for its primary purpose of network optimization and repurposes it to also collect UE trajectory data. By making the MDT framework multi-functional, the system can collect trajectory information using existing infrastructure and protocols, avoiding the need for entirely new dedicated data collection mechanisms and reducing overall system complexity.
2Loss of information
If MDT measurements are configured for trajectory data collection, then trajectory information can be gathered from UE, but the measurement and data collection process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent configures MDT measurements to serve dual purposes: traditional network optimization tasks and UE trajectory data collection. The same MDT measurement framework, reporting mechanisms, and data collection procedures are used for both objectives. This multi-functionality approach allows trajectory data collection without requiring separate measurement configurations, thereby reducing the complexity of the measurement and data collection process.
3Productivity
If UE trajectory prediction AI/ML functionality is implemented, then mobility optimization and energy saving can be improved, but the system requires more computational resources and data processing capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a preliminary data collection phase where UE trajectory data is gathered and stored before being used for AI/ML model training and inference. By collecting and preparing trajectory data in advance through MDT measurements, the system ensures that when AI/ML functionality is activated for mobility optimization or energy saving, the necessary input data is already available. This preliminary action reduces the computational burden during actual prediction tasks and simplifies the overall AI/ML system architecture.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to methods, devices, apparatuses and computer readable storage medium for user equipment (UE) trajectory data collection. The method comprises: receiving, at a first apparatus and from a second apparatus, a configuration of one or more minimization of drive test (MDT) measurements associated with a trajectory of the first apparatus; performing the one or more MDT measurements at least based on the configuration; and transmitting trajectory information collected from the one or more MDT measurements to the second apparatus.