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- An ubiquitous 2.6 GHz radio propagation model for wireless networks using self-supervised learning from satellite imagesPublication . Sousa, Marco; Vieira, Pedro; Queluz, Maria Paula; Rodrigues, AntónioThe performance of any Mobile Wireless Network (MWN) is dependent on the appropriate level of radio coverage, with Path Loss (PL) models being a valuable resource for its evaluation. Recently, advancements in Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Neural Networks (DNNs) have been applied to radio propagation to produce new data-driven PL models. Notoriously, these advancements have also allowed the inclusion of non-classical inputs, such as satellite images. However, data-driven PL models are often developed under the assumption that training and test data distributions are similar, which is a weak assumption in real-world scenarios. Thus, generalization (i.e., the model’s ability to perform on different data distributions) is a crucial aspect of data-driven PL models in the context of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). This paper proposes a new data-driven PL model, the Ubiquitous Satellite Aided Radio Propagation (USARP) model, developed to enhance the geographical generalization capabilities of empirical PL models, by using satellite images. The USARP model considers self-supervised learning to extract general data representations of the radio environment from satellite images, improving the PL prediction Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) PL model in the order of 9 dB, and for a data distribution distinct from the training data. Moreover, it was demonstrated the potential of the USARP model in terms of geographical and radio environment generalization. Although the generalization capabilities of ML regression algorithms are limited, the chosen USARP architecture and the use of regularization techniques had a positive impact on its geographical generalization performance.
- A machine learning driven methodology for alarm prediction towards self-healing in wireless networksPublication . Mata, Luís; Sousa, Marco; Vieira, Pedro; Queluz, Maria Paula; Rodrigues, AntónioAlthough Artificial Intelligence (AI) is already used by 5th Generation (5G) to support specific network functions, the increased complexity of 6th Generation (6G) will demand the adoption of extended AI capabilities to enhance network efficiency. Moreover, high network performance and availability at a sustainable cost will be crucial to emerging applications, such as autonomous vehicles and smart cities. In this context, operators are expected to implement Self-Healing Operations (SHOs) to transition from reactive handling of network faults to a preventive approach, relying on statistical learning of network data. This paper proposes a Machine Learning (ML)-driven methodology to predict network faults using generic Fault Management (FM) data, enabling the implementation of preventive actions to avoid service degradation or failure. The evaluation of this methodology using live network data revealed statistical associations among certain network faults, considering both time and root-cause factors. Therefore, FM data and two ML models, namely Logistic Regression (LR) and Light Gradient Boosting Model (LGBM), were used to predict network faults, achieving a 93% success rate within a 60-minute anticipation period.
- On the Use of Spatial Graphs for Performance Degradation Root-Cause Analysis Toward Self-Healing Mobile NetworksPublication . Mata, Luís; Sousa, Marco; Vieira, Pedro; Queluz, Maria Paula; Rodrigues, AntónioOn the road to the sixth generation of cellular networks (6G), the need to ensure a sustainable usage of natural resources, amid increased competition and cost pressures, has driven the adoption of text Self-Healing Mobile Networks to enhance operational efficiency of current and future wireless networks. This paradigm shift relies on Artificial Intelligence (AI) to increase automation of network functions, notably by applying predictive fault detection and automatic root-cause analysis. In this context, this paper proposes a Deep Learning (DL) model for text self-healing operations based on a Spatial Graph Convolutional Neural Network (SGCN), which is applied to evaluate the performance degradation of Base Stations (BSs) and uncover the underlying root-causes. The advantages of the proposed DL model are threefold. Firstly, it is especially suited for wireless network applications, leveraging the SGCN to account for spatial dependencies among BSs and their physical characteristics. Secondly, the proposed model offers the flexibility to process diverse types of predictive features, including Performance Management (PM), Fault Management (FM), or other data types. Thirdly, it incorporates an explainability module that pinpoints the input features, such as PM counters, with the most significant influence on BS performance, thereby shedding light on its root-cause factors. The proposed model was evaluated on a live 4G network dataset and the results confirmed its effectiveness in identifying BS performance degradation. An F1-score of 89.6% was achieved in the classification of performance failures, which includes a 27% reduction in false negatives compared to prior research outcomes. In a live network environment, this reduction translates into substantial improvements in Quality of Experience (QoE) for the end users and cost savings for the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).