Session establishment method, device and system

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention provides a session establishment method, device and system, and the method comprises the steps that a first network element receives first information from a second network element, and the first information is used for requesting to establish a first session; sending second information to a third network element, wherein the second information is used for requesting to obtain subscription data and / or a strategy of the terminal; receiving third information, wherein the third information comprises subscription data and / or a strategy of the terminal; and selecting a fourth network element according to the third information, and sending fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used for requesting to establish a first session, the first network element being a network element providing a session management function, and the first network element being used for managing or controlling one or more sessions of the terminal. By adopting the means, the problem that the AMF is frequently upgraded and the base station is influenced due to the fact that new services relate to SMF selection strategy modification is solved, and the SMF upgrading problem that large network SMF transformation needs to support selection of a private network SMF in a dual-domain private network scene is solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a session establishment method, apparatus, and system. Background Technology

[0002] In existing communication systems, Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) and Session Management Function (SMF) are defined. AMF is mainly used for access authentication and authorization, registration, connection and mobility management, as well as providing and transmitting session management (SM) messages between user equipment (UE) and SMF. SMF is mainly used for session management, selection and control of user plane function (UPF), and policy control that executes policy control function (PCF) instructions.

[0003] During session establishment, the AMF selects the SMF based on information such as the data network name (DNN) and Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI). The SMF then selects the PDU Session Anchor (PSA) based on the DNN and S-NSSAI. Alternatively, during session establishment and mobility procedures, the AMF selects the Intermediate Session Management Element (I-SMF) based on the DNN, S-NSSAI, and UE location information. The I-SMF then selects the Intermediate User Plane Element (I-UPF) based on the DNN, S-NSSAI, and UE location information.

[0004] However, when current session services change or new services are added, if the SMF that supports the new service is selected, the AMF needs to be upgraded to support it simultaneously. Since AMFs are mostly deployed centrally and serve millions of users, the impact of the upgrade is significant. At the same time, AMFs also maintain N2 links with hundreds of base stations. Therefore, AMF upgrades will also affect the base station side, leading to difficulties and slow deployment of new services on the existing network. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application discloses a session establishment method, apparatus, and system that can solve the problem of frequent AMF upgrades and impact on base stations caused by changes in SMF selection strategies related to new services.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a session establishment method. The method is applied to a first network element, which is a network element providing session management functions, and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal. The method includes:

[0007] The first network element receives first information from the second network element, and the first information is used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0008] The first network element sends a second message to the third network element, the second message being used to request the terminal's subscription data and / or policy.

[0009] The first network element receives third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy.

[0010] The first network element selects a fourth network element based on the third information and sends fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0011] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a session establishment method. This method is applied to a first network element, which is a network element providing session management functions, and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal. The method includes:

[0012] The first network element receives first information from a terminal or base station, the first information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0013] The first network element sends a second message to the third network element, the second message being used to request the terminal's subscription data and / or policy.

[0014] The first network element receives third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy.

[0015] The first network element selects a fourth network element based on the third information and sends fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0016] In the embodiments described above, the first network element selects a fourth network element based on the terminal's subscription data and / or policy, and sends fourth information to the fourth network element. This fourth information is used to request the establishment of a first session. Using this method, the first network element provides session management functions and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal. This solves the problem of frequent AMF upgrades and impact on base stations caused by modifications to the SMF selection policy related to new services, and also addresses the issue of SMF upgrades requiring large-network SMF modifications to support the selection of private network SMFs in dual-domain private network scenarios.

[0017] For example, the first network element is a Serving Session Management Network Element (Serving SMF, S-SMF, or Serving SM, S-SM); or the first network element is an Intermediate Session Management Network Element (I-SMF), which supports the function of managing or controlling one or more sessions of a terminal; or the first network element is a Session Management Network Element (SMF), which supports the function of managing or controlling one or more sessions of a terminal.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the second network element is a network element that provides access and / or mobility management functions. For example, the second network element is an AMF, MM, or AM.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the first session could support access center services, such as internet services.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the contract data includes a first data network identifier and a first slice, wherein the fourth network element supports the first data network identifier and the first slice.

[0021] For example, the contracted data includes one or more Data Network Identifiers (or Names) (DNNs) and slices (S-NSSAIs). The DNNs, such as general-purpose DNNs, dedicated DNNs, and IP Multimedia Subsystem IMSDNNs, are used to identify different data networks or services. Slices, such as enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) slices, massive machine-type communications (mMTC) slices, and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (uRLLC) slices, are used to identify different tenants and slice services.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the strategy could be, for example, a strategy for establishing a second session.

[0023] In another possible implementation, the strategy includes instructing the service data flow of a second session, or the service data flow of a private network, the data flow of local services, etc.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the third network element is a network element that provides unified data management functions or contract data management. For example, the third network element is a UDM (Unified Data Management Module).

[0025] In another possible implementation, the third network element is a network element that provides policy control functions. For example, the third network element is a PCF (Private Policy Function). Optionally, the third network element is a network element SM-PCF (Session Management Function), or a local policy control network element L-PCF (Local Policy Control Function).

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the location of the terminal, and the first network element selects the fifth network element based on the location of the terminal.

[0027] The first network element receives fifth information from the fourth network element, the fifth information being used to indicate the service data flow of the first session.

[0028] The first network element sends a sixth message to the fifth network element, the sixth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the first session to the sixth network element.

[0029] The fourth network element can be a network element that provides session management functions, used to manage or control a session of the terminal. For example, the fourth network element can be a service SMF, SMF, or SM, such as an Anchor SMF (A-SMF), Home SMF (H-SMF), Local SMF (L-SMF), or Private Network SMF (Private Network SMF).

[0030] The sixth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element. For example, the sixth network element is a user plane network element (UPF), such as an anchor UPF (A-UPF, PDUSEssion Anchor UPF, PSA UPF, PSA), a home UPF (H-UPF), a local UPF (L-UPF), or a private network user plane network element (private network UPF), etc.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the third information includes a second data network identifier and a second slice. A first network element receives seventh information from the third network element, the seventh information indicating the service data flow of the second session. For example, the second session supports services where a terminal can remotely access a private network outside the enterprise / campus, such as remote access to the enterprise intranet / private network or campus network.

[0032] The first network element sends an eighth message to the fifth network element, the eighth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to perform a detection based on the seventh message. The first network element receives a ninth message from the fifth network element, the ninth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to detect the service data flow of the second session.

[0033] The first network element selects the seventh network element based on the ninth information and the third information, and the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice.

[0034] The fifth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the first network element controls the fifth network element. For example, the fifth network element is a serving user plane network element (S-UPF); or, the fifth network element is a user plane network element (Uplink Classifier, UL CL, UL CL UPF) that supports uplink traffic offloading; or, the first network element is an I-SMF, the fifth network element is an intermediate user plane network element (I-UPF), and the I-SMF controls the I-UPF; or, the first network element is an SMF, the fifth network element is a user plane network element (UPF), and the SMF controls the UPF.

[0035] Optionally, the seventh network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session. For example, the seventh network element is a session management network element (SMF), such as a private network session management network element (private network SMF), a local session management network element (Local SMF, L-SMF), etc.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the first network element sends tenth information to the seventh network element, the tenth information being used to request the establishment of a second session.

[0037] The first network element sends an eleventh message to the fifth network element, the eleventh message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the second session to the eighth network element.

[0038] Optionally, the eighth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element. For example, the eighth network element is a user plane network element (UPF), such as a private network user plane network element (private network UPF), a local user plane network element (Local UPF, L-UPF), etc.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices, wherein:

[0040] The first network element selects multiple fourth network elements based on the third information, and the multiple fourth network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices.

[0041] The first network element requests the establishment of multiple sessions from the multiple fourth network elements.

[0042] And / or,

[0043] The first network element selects multiple seventh network elements based on the third information, and the multiple seventh network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices.

[0044] The first network element requests the establishment of multiple sessions from the multiple seventh network elements.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the first network element can also receive a third session establishment request, which supports services that access the local network, such as edge applications.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the second network element is a network element providing access and / or mobility management functions; and / or, the third network element is a network element providing unified data management functions or subscription data management functions; or, the third network element is a network element providing policy control functions; and / or, the fourth network element is a network element providing session management functions, and the fourth network element manages the first session; and / or, the fifth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the first network element controls the fifth network element; and / or, the sixth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element; and / or, the seventh network element is a network element providing session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session; and / or, the eighth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element.

[0047] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a session establishment method applied to a second network element, the method comprising:

[0048] The second network element receives a twelfth piece of information from a terminal or base station. The twelfth piece of information is used to request the establishment of a first session. The twelfth piece of information includes the location of the terminal.

[0049] The second network element selects the first network element based on the location of the terminal. The first network element is a network element that provides session management functions and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal.

[0050] The second network element sends a first message to the first network element, the first message being used to request the establishment of the first session.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the second network element receives a thirteenth message from the first network element, the thirteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

[0052] The second network element sends a fourteenth message to the terminal or base station, the fourteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

[0053] In one possible implementation, the second network element is a network element that provides access and / or mobility management functions.

[0054] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a session establishment apparatus. This apparatus provides session management functions and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal. The apparatus is a first network element, or a device within the first network element (e.g., a chip, a chip system, or a circuit), or a device compatible with the first network element. It may also be a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. The apparatus includes:

[0055] The communication module is used to receive first information from a second network element, a UE, or a base station, wherein the first information is used to request the establishment of a first session;

[0056] The communication module is further configured to send second information to a third network element, the second information being used to request the acquisition of the terminal's subscription data and / or policy;

[0057] The communication module is further configured to receive third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy;

[0058] The processing module is used to select the fourth network element based on the third information;

[0059] The communication module is also used to send fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0060] In one possible implementation, the contract data includes a first data network identifier and a first slice, wherein the fourth network element supports the first data network identifier and the first slice.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the location of the terminal, and the processing module is further configured to:

[0062] Select the fifth network element based on the location of the terminal;

[0063] The communication module is further configured to receive fifth information from the fourth network element, the fifth information being used to indicate the service data flow of the first session;

[0064] The communication module is also used to send a sixth message to the fifth network element, the sixth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the first session to the sixth network element.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the third information includes a second data network identifier and a second slice, and the communication module is further configured to:

[0066] Receive seventh information from the third network element, the seventh information being used to indicate the service data flow of the second session;

[0067] Send the eighth information to the fifth network element, the eighth information being used to instruct the fifth network element to perform detection based on the seventh information;

[0068] The system receives a ninth message from the fifth network element, the ninth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to detect the service data flow of the second session;

[0069] The processing module is further configured to select a seventh network element based on the ninth information and the third information, wherein the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the communication module is further configured to:

[0071] Send the tenth message to the seventh network element, the tenth message being used to request the establishment of a second session;

[0072] The eleventh message is sent to the fifth network element, which instructs the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the second session to the eighth network element.

[0073] In one possible implementation, the third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices, and the processing module is further configured to select multiple fourth network elements according to the third information, wherein the multiple fourth network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices;

[0074] The communication module is also used to request the establishment of multiple sessions from the plurality of fourth network elements;

[0075] And / or,

[0076] The processing module is further configured to select multiple seventh network elements based on the third information, wherein the multiple seventh network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices;

[0077] The communication module is also used to request the establishment of multiple sessions from the plurality of seventh network elements.

[0078] In one possible implementation, the second network element is a network element providing access and / or mobility management functions; and / or, the third network element is a network element providing unified data management functions or subscription data management functions; or, the third network element is a network element providing policy control functions; and / or, the fourth network element is a network element providing session management functions, and the fourth network element manages the first session; and / or, the fifth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the first network element controls the fifth network element; and / or, the sixth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element; and / or, the seventh network element is a network element providing session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session; and / or, the eighth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element.

[0079] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a session establishment apparatus. The apparatus is a second network element, or a device within a second network element (e.g., a chip, a chip system, or a circuit), or a device capable of being used in conjunction with a second network element. It may also be a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. The apparatus includes:

[0080] A communication module is configured to receive twelfth information from a terminal or a base station, the twelfth information being used to request the establishment of a first session, the twelfth information including the location of the terminal;

[0081] The processing module is used to select a first network element based on the location of the terminal. The first network element is a network element that provides session management functions. The first network element is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal.

[0082] The communication module is further configured to send first information to the first network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of the first session.

[0083] In one possible implementation, the communication module is further configured to:

[0084] Receive the thirteenth message from the first network element, the thirteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session;

[0085] The fourteenth message is sent to the terminal or base station, the fourteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

[0086] In one possible implementation, the apparatus is an apparatus that provides access and / or mobility management functions.

[0087] In a sixth aspect, this application provides a session establishment apparatus, including a processor, configured to execute a computer program (or computer-executable instructions) stored in a memory, and / or via logic circuitry to cause the apparatus to perform a method as provided in the first aspect and various possible implementations of the first aspect, or a method as provided in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, or a method as provided in the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect.

[0088] In one possible implementation, the device also includes a memory.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the processor and memory are integrated together.

[0090] In another possible implementation, the aforementioned memory is located outside the device.

[0091] The device also includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices, such as sending or receiving data and / or signals. Exemplarily, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0092] In a seventh aspect, this application provides a session establishment system, the system including a session establishment apparatus as provided in any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, and a session establishment apparatus as provided in any possible implementation of the fifth aspect.

[0093] Eighthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements a method as provided in any possible embodiment of the first aspect, or a method as provided in any possible embodiment of the second aspect, or a method as provided in any possible embodiment of the third aspect.

[0094] Ninthly, this application provides a computer program product containing instructions, characterized in that, when the computer program product is run on a computer, it causes the method provided by any possible implementation of the first aspect to be implemented, or the method provided by any possible implementation of the second aspect to be implemented, or the method provided by any possible implementation of the third aspect to be implemented.

[0095] It is understood that the apparatus described in the fourth aspect, the apparatus described in the fifth aspect, the apparatus described in the sixth aspect, the system described in the seventh aspect, the computer storage medium described in the eighth aspect, or the computer program product described in the ninth aspect are all used to execute the methods provided in any of the first to third aspects. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0096] The accompanying drawings used in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0097] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0098] Figure 2a This application provides a schematic diagram of a communication network architecture.

[0099] Figure 2b A schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0100] Figure 2c A schematic diagram illustrating the architecture of yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0101] Figure 2d A schematic diagram illustrating the architecture of yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0102] Figure 2e A schematic diagram illustrating the architecture of yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0103] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0104] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0105] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating another session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0106] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0107] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating another session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0108] Figure 8a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a session establishment device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0109] Figure 8b This is a schematic diagram of another session establishment device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0110] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of another session establishment device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0111] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terminology used in the implementation section of this application is for explaining specific embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0112] Figure 1 A possible, non-limiting system diagram is shown. See also Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a simplified schematic diagram of a wireless communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the wireless communication system includes a wireless access network 100. The wireless access network 100 can be a next-generation (e.g., future communication system / network) wireless access network or a traditional (e.g., 5G or 4G) wireless access network. One or more communication devices (120a-120j, collectively referred to as 120) can be interconnected or connected to one or more network devices (110a, 110b, collectively referred to as 110) within the wireless access network 100. Figure 1 This is just an illustration; the wireless communication system may also include other devices, such as core network equipment, wireless relay equipment, and / or wireless backhaul equipment. Figure 1 It is not shown in the middle.

[0113] For example, in practical applications, this wireless communication system can simultaneously include multiple network devices (also called access network devices) and multiple communication devices. A network device can simultaneously serve one or more communication devices. A communication device can also simultaneously access one or more network devices. This application embodiment does not limit the number of communication devices and network devices included in the wireless communication system.

[0114] In this context, a network device can be an entity on the network side used to transmit or receive signals. A network device can also be an access device that allows communication devices to wirelessly connect to the wireless communication system; for example, a network device can be a base station. Base stations can broadly encompass or replace various names like the following, such as: NodeB, Evolved NodeB (eNB), Next Generation NodeB (gNB), Access Network Equipment in Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN), Relay Station, Access Point, Transmitting and Receiving Point (TRP), Transmitting Point (TP), Master MeNB, Secondary SeNB, Multi-mode Radio Node, Home Base Station, Network Controller, Access Node, Radio Node, Access Point (AP), Transmitting Node, Transceiver Node, Baseband Unit (BBU), Remote Radio Unit (RRU), Active Antenna Unit (AAU), Remote Radio Head (RRH), Centralized Unit (CU), Distributed Unit (DU), Radio Unit (RU), Centralized Unit Control Plane (CU-CP) Node, Centralized Unit User Plane (CU-CP) Node. User plane (CU-UP) nodes, positioning nodes, etc. Base stations can be macro base stations, micro base stations, relay nodes, donor nodes, or similar entities, or combinations thereof. Network equipment can also refer to communication modules, modems, or chips installed within the aforementioned devices or apparatuses. Network equipment can also be mobile switching centers and devices that function as base stations in device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications; network-side equipment in future communication systems / networks; and devices that function as base stations in future communication systems. Network equipment can support networks using the same or different access technologies. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technologies or device forms used in the network equipment.

[0115] All or part of the functions of the network device in this application can also be implemented through software functions running on hardware, or through virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (such as a cloud platform). The network device in this application can also be a logical node, logical module, or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of a network device.

[0116] Network devices can be fixed or mobile. For example, base stations 110a and 110b are stationary and are responsible for wireless transmission and reception from one or more cells of communication device 120. Figure 1 The helicopter or drone 120i shown can be configured to act as a mobile base station, and one or more cells can move according to the location of the mobile base station 120i. In other examples, the helicopter or drone (120i) can be configured as a communication device to communicate with base station 110b.

[0117] In this application, the communication device used to implement the above-mentioned network access functions can be an access network device, a network device with some access network functions, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of access network functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or hardware circuit plus software module. This device can be installed in the access network device or used in conjunction with the access network device. In the method of this application, the example of an access network device being used as the communication device to implement the access network device functions is described.

[0118] Communication devices can be user-side entities used to receive or transmit signals, such as mobile phones. Communication devices can be used to connect people, things, and machines. Communication devices can communicate with one or more core networks via network devices. Communication devices include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, other processing devices connected to wireless modems, or vehicle-mounted devices. Communication devices can be portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices. Communication devices can be widely used in various scenarios, such as cellular communication, device-to-device, vehicle-to-everything (V2X), point-to-point (P2P), machine-to-machine (M2M), machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, drones, robots, remote sensing, passive sensing, positioning, navigation and tracking, autonomous delivery and mobility, etc.Examples of communication equipment 120 include: user equipment (UE) conforming to the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) standard, fixed equipment, mobile equipment, handheld devices, wearable devices, cellular phones, smartphones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, personal computers, smart books, vehicles, satellites, global positioning system (GPS) devices, target tracking devices, drones, helicopters, aircraft, ships, remote control devices, smart home devices, industrial equipment, personal communication service (PCS) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless network cameras, tablets, handheld computers, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices such as smartwatches, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems, wireless terminals in self-driving systems, and smart grids. Wireless terminals in various scenarios include those in the grid, transportation safety, smart cities (such as smart gas pumps, high-speed rail terminals), and smart homes (such as smart speakers, smart coffee machines, and smart printers). Communication equipment 120 can be wireless devices in these scenarios or devices installed on wireless devices, such as communication modules, modems, or chips. Communication equipment can also be called a terminal, terminal equipment, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), or mobile terminal (MT). Communication equipment can also be communication equipment in future wireless communication systems. Communication equipment can be used in dedicated network equipment or general-purpose equipment. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or form of the communication equipment.

[0119] For example, a communication device can be used to act as a base station. For instance, a UE can act as a scheduling entity, providing sidelink signaling between UEs in V2X, D2D, or point-to-point (P2P) scenarios. Figure 1 As shown, cellular phone 120a and car 120b communicate with each other using a side link signal. Cellular phone 120a communicates with smart home device 120e without needing to relay communication signals through base station 110b.

[0120] In this application, the communication device used to implement the functions of the communication equipment can be a terminal, a terminal having some of the functions of the aforementioned communication equipment, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of the functions of the aforementioned communication equipment, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal or used in conjunction with the terminal. In this application, the chip system can be composed of chips or include chips and other discrete components. The technical solutions provided in this application are described using a terminal or UE as an example of the communication device.

[0121] For example, a wireless communication system typically consists of cells. A base station manages the cell and provides communication services to multiple mobile stations (MS) within it. The base station includes a baseband unit (BBU) and a remote radio unit (RRU). The BBU and RRU can be located in different locations; for example, the RRU can be deployed remotely to a high-traffic area, while the BBU is located in a central equipment room. Alternatively, the BBU and RRU can be located in the same equipment room. The BBU and RRU can also be different components within the same rack. For example, a cell can correspond to a carrier or a member carrier.

[0122] It is understood that this application can be applied between network devices and communication devices, between network devices, or between communication devices, that is, between primary devices and secondary devices. The primary device can be a network device or a communication device. When the primary device is a network device, the secondary device can be another network device or a communication device. When the primary device is a communication device, the secondary device can be another communication device.

[0123] Communication between access network devices and terminals follows a specific protocol layer structure. This protocol layer structure can include a control plane protocol layer structure and a user plane protocol layer structure. For example, the control plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the radio resource control (RRC) layer, the packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, the radio link control (RLC) layer, the medium access control (MAC) layer, and the physical layer. Similarly, the user plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the PDCP layer, the RLC layer, the MAC layer, and the physical layer. In one possible implementation, a service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer can be included above the PDCP layer.

[0124] For example, the protocol layer structure between the access network device and the terminal may also include an artificial intelligence (AI) layer for transmitting data related to AI functions.

[0125] Taking data transmission between access network devices and terminals as an example, data transmission needs to pass through user plane protocol layers, such as the SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer. The SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer can also be collectively referred to as the access layer. Based on the direction of data transmission, it is divided into sending and receiving; each of these layers is further divided into a sending part and a receiving part. Taking downlink data transmission as an example, after the PDCP layer obtains data from the upper layer, it transmits the data to the RLC layer and MAC layer. The MAC layer then generates a transport block, and finally, it is wirelessly transmitted through the physical layer. Data is encapsulated in corresponding ways at each layer. For example, data received by a layer from the upper layer is considered a Service Data Unit (SDU) of that layer. After encapsulation by that layer, it becomes a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) and is then passed to the next layer.

[0126] For example, the terminal may also have an application layer and a non-access layer. The application layer can be used to provide services to applications installed on the terminal. For instance, downlink data received by the terminal can be sequentially transmitted from the physical layer to the application layer, and then provided to the application by the application layer; or, the application layer can acquire data generated by the application and sequentially transmit the data to the physical layer for transmission to other communication devices. The non-access layer can be used to forward user data, such as forwarding uplink data received from the application layer to the SDAP layer or forwarding downlink data received from the SDAP layer to the application layer.

[0127] Access network equipment can include centralized units (CUs) and distributed units (DUs). Multiple DUs can be centrally controlled by a single CU. As an example, the interface between the CU and DU can be called an F1 interface. The control plane (CP) interface can be F1-C, and the user plane (UP) interface can be F1-U. CUs and DUs can be distinguished according to the protocol layer of the wireless network: for example, the functions of PDCP layer and above are located in the CU, and the functions of protocol layers below PDCP layer (such as RLC and MAC layers) are located in the DU; or, for another example, the functions of protocol layers above PDCP layer are located in the CU, and the functions of protocol layers below PDCP layer are located in the DU.

[0128] It is understandable that the above division of CU and DU processing functions according to protocol layers is merely an example. Other division methods are also possible. For instance, CUs or DUs can be divided into those with more protocol layer functions, or they can be divided into those with partial protocol layer processing functions. In one design, some functions of the RLC layer and the protocol layer functions above the RLC layer are located in the CU, while the remaining functions of the RLC layer and the protocol layer functions below the RLC layer are located in the DU. In another design, the functions of CUs or DUs can be divided according to service type or other system requirements, such as latency. Functions that need to meet latency requirements are located in the DU, while functions that do not need to meet this latency requirement are located in the CU. In yet another design, the CU can also have one or more core network functions. For example, the CU can be located on the network side for convenient centralized management. In yet another design, the RU of the DU is remotely located. The RU has radio frequency functionality.

[0129] For example, DU and RU can be partitioned at the physical layer (PHY). For instance, DU can implement higher-level functions in the PHY layer, and RU can implement lower-level functions. Specifically, for transmission, the functions of the PHY layer may include adding cyclic redundancy check (CRC) codes, channel coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, layer mapping, precoding, resource mapping, physical antenna mapping, and / or radio frequency (RF) transmission functions. For reception, the functions of the PHY layer may include CRC, channel decoding, rate matching de-scrambling, demodulation, layer mapping de-mapping, channel detection, resource demapping, physical antenna demapping, and / or RF reception functions. The higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include a subset of the PHY layer's functions, for example, functions closer to the MAC layer, while the lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include another subset of the PHY layer's functions, for example, functions closer to the RF functions. For example, higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include adding CRC codes, channel coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, and layer mapping, while lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include precoding, resource mapping, physical antenna mapping, and radio frequency transmission functions; or, higher-level functions in the PHY layer may include adding CRC codes, channel coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, layer mapping, and precoding, while lower-level functions in the PHY layer may include resource mapping, physical antenna mapping, and radio frequency transmission functions.

[0130] For example, the functionality of a CU can be implemented by a single entity or by different entities. For instance, the functionality of the CU can be further divided, separating the control plane and user plane and implementing them through different entities: a control plane CU entity (i.e., the CU-CP entity) and a user plane CU entity (i.e., the CU-UP entity). These CU-CP and CU-UP entities can be coupled with a DU to jointly complete the functions of the access network device.

[0131] In the above architecture, signaling generated by the CU can be sent to the terminal via the DU, or signaling generated by the terminal can be sent to the CU via the DU. For example, signaling from the RRC or PDCP layer will eventually be processed into physical layer signaling and sent to the terminal, or it can be transformed from received physical layer signaling. Under this architecture, the RRC or PDCP layer signaling can be considered to be sent via the DU, or via the DU and RU.

[0132] For example, any one of DU, CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, and RU can be a software module, a hardware structure, or a combination of software and hardware structures, without limitation. The different entities can exist in different forms, without limitation. For example, DU, CU, CU-CP, and CU-UP are software modules, and RU is a hardware structure. These modules and the methods they execute are also within the scope of protection of this application.

[0133] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an O-RAN system, CU may also be called O-CU (open CU), DU may also be called O-DU, CU-CP may also be called O-CU-CP, CU-UP may also be called O-CU-UP, and RU may also be called O-RU.

[0134] It should be understood that Figure 1 The number and type of devices in the communication system shown are for illustrative purposes only. This application is not limited to this. In actual applications, the communication system may include more terminals, more access network devices, and other network elements, such as core network devices and / or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions.

[0135] It is understood that all or part of the functions implemented by one or more of the terminals, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be virtualized, that is, implemented through one or more of dedicated or general-purpose processors and corresponding software modules. Among these, the terminals and access network devices involve air interface transmission, and the transmit and receive functions of this interface can be implemented in hardware. Core network devices, such as operation administration and maintenance (OAM) network elements, can also be virtualized. For example, one or more of the functions of the virtualized terminals, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be implemented by cloud devices, such as cloud devices in over-the-top (OTT) systems.

[0136] The method provided in this application can be used for communication between access network devices and terminals, or for communication between other communication devices, such as communication between macro base stations and micro base stations in a wireless backhaul link, or communication between two terminals in a sidelink (SL), etc., without limitation.

[0137] In this application, the phrase "sending information to... (e.g., a terminal)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the destination of the information being the terminal. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to the terminal. Similarly, the phrase "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)" or "receiving information from... (e.g., a terminal)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the source of the information being the terminal. This can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the terminal. Information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted similarly, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0138] like Figure 2a The diagram shown is a network architecture schematic of a communication network provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication system may include terminal equipment, access network equipment, a core network, and a data network. The control plane of the core network may include functional network elements (or network functions, NFs, etc., without limitation) such as access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), policy control function (PCF), unified data management (UDM), application function (AF), edge application server discovery function (EASDF), network exposure function (NEF), and network repository function (NRF). The user plane of the core network may include functional network elements (or network functions, NFs, etc., without limitation) such as user plane function (UPF).

[0139] It should be noted that the above functional entities are merely names, and the names themselves do not constitute a limitation on the entities. For example, the session management function entity may also be replaced with "session management function" or other names. Moreover, the session management function entity may also correspond to an entity that includes other functions besides session management. Similarly, the user plane function entity may also be replaced with "user plane function" or other names, and the user plane function entity may also correspond to an entity that includes other functions besides user plane functions. This is a unified explanation here and will not be repeated below.

[0140] It is understood that the above functions can be network elements in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, a combination of hardware and software, or virtualization functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).

[0141] With the continuous development of communication technology, new communication scenarios such as industrial enterprises have emerged. High-volume traffic in these scenarios is primarily generated and terminated locally, with data not being transmitted externally. To meet this requirement, the user plane of the core network can be deployed to the campus. This user plane can then achieve network linkage with the central control plane of the core network, thereby providing terminals with low-latency, high-bandwidth local network services.

[0142] Each new UPF deployment requires modification of the configuration of the central control plane (SCF) of the core network connected to that UPF. The SMF influences the AMF's (Agency Management Frame) selection logic by updating the configuration registration to the NRF. For example, when an operator deploys a UPF within an enterprise campus, it needs to assign a new Data Network Identifier (DNN) to the enterprise or campus. Terminals register with the network carrying this DNN, and the AMF should select the SMF connected to the UPF based on this DNN. The SMF then controls the campus's UPF. Therefore, with the increasing number of local communication scenarios such as industrial enterprises, the central control plane needs to configure more and more SMF selection logic for local campuses.

[0143] In addition, with the increase in local communication scenarios such as industrial enterprises, and the more diverse network requirements that these scenarios place on the network, such as MEC, 5G LAN, slicing, and positioning, the central control plane such as SMF needs to be frequently upgraded to support new communication scenarios and new network capabilities, or to deploy new SMFs to support new communication scenarios and new network capabilities. AMF also needs to be upgraded to support the selection of SMFs based on new network capabilities.

[0144] Furthermore, with the continuous development of communication technology, in addition to scenarios involving accessing local services within a specific area, new scenarios such as remotely accessing local services from outside the area have emerged. In this application, such remote access network communication scenarios can be understood as dual-domain private networks. For example, faculty and students can access campus network resources anytime and anywhere, both on and off campus, while company employees can access the company's private network and handle daily office tasks anytime and anywhere, whether at the company headquarters or traveling. Such scenarios also add SMF selection logic based on private network DNN and private network capabilities.

[0145] To solve the above technical problems, such as Figure 2b This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication method provided in this application. It should be noted that this solution may also be applied to 5.5G or future communication systems / networks, and there are no limitations on this. In this method, the first network element is a network element providing session management functions, used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal. The first network element receives first information from a second network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of a first session. The first network element sends second information to a third network element, the second information being used to request the acquisition of the terminal's subscription data and / or policies. Furthermore, the first network element receives third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policies. The first network element selects a fourth network element based on the third information and sends fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of the first session. Further, the first network element also sends an eighth information to a fifth network element, the eighth information being used to instruct the fifth network element to probe based on seventh information, the seventh information being used to indicate the service data flow of the second session. The first network element receives the ninth information from the fifth network element, the ninth information being used to indicate that the fifth network element has detected the service data flow of the second session, and the first network element selects the seventh network element based on the ninth information and the third information.

[0146] It should be noted that AMF, SMF, UPF, etc. in the following text can be understood or equivalent to Mobility Management (MM), Access Management (AM), Session Management (SM), User Plane (UP), etc., respectively. In the embodiments below, S-SMF can also be understood or equivalent to S-SM, A-SMF can also be understood or equivalent to A-SM, H-SMF can also be understood or equivalent to H-SM, L-SMF can also be understood or equivalent to L-SM, S-UPF can also be understood or equivalent to S-UP, H-UPF can also be understood or equivalent to H-UP, etc. Only some are listed here; the same applies to others not listed, and this solution does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0147] Among them, such as Figure 2b As shown, the first network element S-SM and the fifth network element S-UP are deployed in the metropolitan area / city, and the second network element is deployed in the central location. The third network element can be deployed in the central location, metropolitan area, city, park, home location, etc., and this application does not limit the deployment location of the third network element. The first network element can communicate with the fourth or seventh network elements of multiple networks to establish connections for the terminal to different networks. The network can also be understood as an operator network, central network, metropolitan area network, park network, local network, private network, subnet, etc. It should be noted that the first and fifth network elements can belong to the same network as the fourth or seventh network element, such as belonging to the same operator network, or they can belong to different networks, such as belonging to different operator networks, or, for example, the first and fifth network elements belong to the operator network, the fourth network element belongs to the park network, and the seventh network belongs to the private network, etc., and this scheme does not limit them. Among them, the user equipment accesses the network through the RAN node or the access network (AN) node. The RAN node is mainly the wireless network equipment in the 3GPP network, and the AN can be the access network equipment defined in non-3GPP. For example, Figure 2c The fourth network element is the SM deployed at the center. The S-SM can request the A-SM to establish the first session, thus establishing a connection between the terminal and the center for services such as Internet access. For example, ... Figure 2d The seventh network element is a private network SM deployed in the enterprise campus or serving the enterprise network. Besides the first session, the S-SM can also request a second session from the private network SM to establish a connection between terminals outside the enterprise campus and the enterprise network. For example, ... Figure 2e The fourth network element is the L-SM deployed in the local campus. Besides the first session, the S-SM can request the L-SM to establish a third session to establish a connection between the terminal and the local network. It should be noted that the first network element can establish the first, second, and third sessions, or the second and third sessions, etc. This application does not limit the number or type of sessions that the first network element can establish. Optionally, the first session can be a general PDU session, the second session a private network PDU session, and the third session a local session, etc. It should be noted that a session can be understood as a PDU session, PDU, etc.

[0148] It should be noted that in this solution, both the fourth and seventh network elements are session management network elements. Specifically, the fourth network element manages the first session, and the seventh network element manages the second session; or, the fourth network element supports the first data network identifier and the first slice, and the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice; or, the first network element triggers the selection of the fourth network element based on the first information from the terminal or base station, and triggers the selection of the seventh network element based on the ninth information from the fifth network element. The seventh network element can be the same network element or the same device (e.g., a chip, a chip system, or a circuit) as the fourth network element, or a device compatible with that network element, or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of that network element. For example, as described below... Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment scenario, both A-SMF and private network SMF can be understood as the fourth network element. A-SMF manages the first session (general session), and private network SMF manages the second session (dedicated session). A-SMF supports the first data network identifier and the first slice, and private network SMF supports the second data network identifier and the second slice. Based on the first information of the terminal or base station and the third information of the third network element, the first network element triggers the selection of A-SMF and private network SMF.

[0149] Of course, the seventh network element can be a different network element or device (e.g., a chip, a chip system, or a circuit) from the fourth network element. Examples are given below. Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the scenario shown in the embodiment, Figure 4 In this context, SMF can be understood as the fourth network element. Figure 5 The private network SMF in the context can be understood as the seventh network element. Specifically, the SMF manages the first session (general session), while the private network SMF manages the second session (dedicated session). The SMF supports the first data network identifier and the first slice, while the private network SMF supports the second data network identifier and the second slice. Based on the first information from the terminal or base station, the first network element triggers the selection of the SMF, and simultaneously, based on the ninth information from the fifth network element, the first network element triggers the selection of the private network SMF.

[0150] The above only uses the seventh network element as an example for introduction, and this solution does not impose any restrictions on it.

[0151] The architecture of the embodiments of this application has been described above. The methods of the embodiments of this application will be described in detail below.

[0152] Reference Figure 3 The diagram shown is a flowchart illustrating a session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application. It is understood that this solution can also be referred to as a communication method, etc. Optionally, this method can be applied to the aforementioned communication system, for example... Figure 1 The communication system shown. (As shown) Figure 3The session establishment method shown may include steps 301-304. It should be understood that this application describes the process in the order of 301-304 for ease of description, and is not intended to limit the execution to this specific order. This application's embodiments do not limit the order of execution, the execution time, or the number of executions of one or more of the above steps. Steps 301-304 are as follows:

[0153] 301. The first network element receives first information from the second network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of a first session, the first network element being a network element that provides session management functions, and the first network element being used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal.

[0154] The first network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal. For example, the first network element may be a Serving Session Management Network Element (Serving SMF, S-SMF, or Serving SM, S-SM); or the first network element may be an Intermediate Session Management Network Element (I-SMF), which supports the function of managing or controlling one or more sessions of the terminal; or the first network element may be a Session Management Network Element (SMF), which supports the function of managing or controlling one or more sessions of the terminal. This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0155] In one possible implementation, the second network element is a network element that provides access and / or mobility management functions. For example, the second network element is an AMF, MM, or Access Management (AM).

[0156] For example, a second network element (such as an AMF) receives twelfth information from a terminal or base station. This twelfth information is used to request the establishment of a first session, and includes the location of the terminal. The second network element selects a first network element based on the terminal's location. For instance, the second network element selects a first network element that supports the terminal's location based on locally configured first network element information. Alternatively, the second network element requests service discovery from the NRF, and the NRF returns a first network element that supports the terminal's location to the second network element. Then, the second network element sends the aforementioned first information to the first network element.

[0157] The above example illustrates the first network element receiving first information from the AMF. In another possible implementation, the second network element could be another network element used for access and / or mobility management functions.

[0158] Optionally, the first network element receives or directly receives the twelfth information from the terminal or base station without passing through the second network element; the twelfth information includes the first information. This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0159] In one possible implementation, the first session could support access center services, such as internet services.

[0160] 302. The first network element sends second information to the third network element, the second information being used to request the acquisition of the terminal's subscription data and / or policy. Accordingly, the third network element receives the second information.

[0161] In one possible implementation, the third network element is a network element that provides unified data management functions or contract data management. For example, the third network element is a UDM (Unified Data Management Module).

[0162] In another possible implementation, the third network element is a network element that provides policy control functions. For example, the third network element is a PCF. Optionally, the third network element is a network element that provides session policies (SM-PCF), or the third network element is a Local Policy Control Function (L-PCF).

[0163] Optionally, the first network element sends the aforementioned second information to the UDM and / or PCF.

[0164] 303. The third network element sends third information to the first network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy. Accordingly, the first network element receives the third information.

[0165] In one possible implementation, the terminal's subscription data includes one or more Data Network Identifiers (or Names) (DNNs) and slices (S-NSSAIs). The DNNs, such as general-purpose DNNs, dedicated DNNs, and IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) DNNs, are used to identify different data networks or services. For example, a general-purpose DNN identifies internet services, while a dedicated DNN identifies dedicated network services (such as enterprise network services). Slices, such as enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) slices, massive machine-type communications (mMTC) slices, and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (uRLLC) slices, are used to identify different tenants and slice services. For example, the terminal's subscription data can be subscription data used to select session management network elements, such as SmfSelectionSubscriptionData.

[0166] In one possible implementation, the strategy could be, for example, a strategy for establishing a second session. Exemplarily, the strategy includes a second data network identifier and a second slice, and the first network element selects to establish a second session according to the strategy.

[0167] In another possible implementation, the strategy includes instructing the service data flow of the second session, or the service data flow of a private network, the data flow of local services, etc. Optionally, the first network element instructs the fourth network element to probe the specified service data flow according to the strategy.

[0168] Optionally, the data flow indicating the second session / private network / local service can be understood in this application as a packet filter, service data flow filter (SDF filter), flow information, etc., which will not be elaborated further in this solution.

[0169] 304. The first network element selects a fourth network element based on the third information and sends fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0170] The fourth network element can be a network element that provides session management functions, used to manage or control a session of a terminal. For example, the fourth network element can be a service SMF, SMF, or SM, such as an Anchor SMF (A-SMF), Home SMF (H-SMF), Local SMF (L-SMF), or Private Network SMF (Private Network SMF).

[0171] Optionally, fourth network elements such as A-SMF are deployed in regional centers, L-SMF in local campuses, and private network SMF in private network domains. First network elements such as S-SMF are deployed in prefecture-level cities / metropolitan areas.

[0172] In one possible implementation, the terminal's subscription data includes a first data network identifier (or name) DNN and a first slice S-NSSAI. The fourth network element supports both the first data network identifier and the first slice.

[0173] In one possible implementation, the fourth network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the fourth network element manages the first session. For example, the fourth network element could be an anchor session management network element.

[0174] In one possible implementation, the scheme's selection of S-SMF by AMF, S-SMF by SMF, S-SMF by S-UPF, and SMF by UPF can be understood as selecting network elements that meet the conditions based on local configuration, or requesting service discovery from NRF, with NRF returning network elements that meet the conditions.

[0175] For example, the first network element selecting the fourth network element can be understood as the first network element selecting a fourth network element that supports the first data network identifier and the first slice based on its locally configured fourth network element information. Alternatively, the first network element requests service discovery from the NRF, and the NRF returns a fourth network element that supports the first data network identifier and the first slice to the first network element.

[0176] For details on the implementation of selecting the fifth, seventh, sixth, and eighth network elements, please refer to that record; it will not be elaborated upon here.

[0177] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the location of the terminal. The first network element selects a fifth network element based on the location of the terminal. For example, the first network element selects a fifth network element that supports the terminal's location based on locally configured fifth network element information. Alternatively, the first network element requests service discovery from the NRF, and the NRF returns a fifth network element that supports the terminal's location to the first network element.

[0178] Optionally, the fifth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the first network element controls the fifth network element. For example, the fifth network element is a serving user plane network element (S-UPF); or the fifth network element is a user plane network element (Uplink Classifier, UL CL, UL CL UPF) that supports uplink traffic offloading; or the first network element is an I-SMF, the fifth network element is an intermediate user plane network element (I-UPF), and the I-SMF controls the I-UPF; or the first network element is an SMF, the fifth network element is a user plane network element (UPF), and the SMF controls the UPF.

[0179] The first network element receives fifth information from the fourth network element, the fifth information being used to indicate the service data flow of the first session. Optionally, the fifth information may include flow information, flow splitting rules (such as N4Information), packet filters, service data flow filters (SDF filters), etc. For a detailed description of this part, please refer to the following embodiments; it will not be repeated here.

[0180] Then, the first network element sends a sixth message to the fifth network element, the sixth message instructing the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the first session to the sixth network element. Accordingly, the sixth network element receives the sixth message.

[0181] Optionally, the sixth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element. For example, the sixth network element may be a user plane network element (UPF), an anchor user plane network element ((Anchor UPF, A-UPF), (PDUSession Anchor UPF, PSA UPF)), a home user plane network element (Home UPF, H-UPF), a local user plane network element (Local UPF, L-UPF), a private network user plane network element (private network UPF), etc.

[0182] In one possible implementation, the first network element sends a thirteenth message to the second network element, the thirteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session. Accordingly, the second network element receives the thirteenth message.

[0183] Optionally, the fourth network element sends an indication message to the first network element, indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session. Then, the first network element sends a thirteenth message to the second network element.

[0184] Then, the second network element sends a fourteenth message to the terminal or base station, the fourteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

[0185] Using this example, the first session can be established.

[0186] In one possible implementation, the third information includes a second data network identifier and a second slice. The first network element receives seventh information from the third network element, which is used to indicate the service data flow of the second session. In one possible implementation, the second session may support services accessing a private network, such as an enterprise intranet. Optionally, the seventh information may include flow information, flow splitting rules (such as N4Information), packet filters, service data flow filters (SDF filters), and policies for detecting private network data flows. Further details on this part can be found in the embodiments described below and will not be repeated here.

[0187] The first network element sends an eighth message to the fifth network element, the eighth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to perform a detection based on the seventh message. Accordingly, the fifth network element receives the eighth message.

[0188] The fifth network element sends a ninth message to the first network element, the ninth message indicating that the fifth network element has detected the service data flow of the second session. Accordingly, the first network element receives the ninth message.

[0189] The first network element selects a seventh network element based on the ninth information and the third information, and the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice.

[0190] Optionally, the seventh network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session. For example, the seventh network element is a session management network element (SMF), such as a private network session management network element (private network SMF), a local session management network element (Local SMF, L-SMF), etc.

[0191] In one possible implementation, the first network element sends tenth information to the seventh network element, the tenth information being used to request the establishment of a second session. For example, the second session supports or is associated with the second data network identifier and the second slice, and the message carries the aforementioned tenth information.

[0192] Then, the first network element sends an eleventh message to the fifth network element, the eleventh message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the second session to the eighth network element.

[0193] Optionally, the eighth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element. For example, the eighth network element is a user plane network element (UPF), such as a private network user plane network element (private network UPF), a local user plane network element (Local UPF, L-UPF), etc.

[0194] Using this example, a second session can be established.

[0195] In one possible implementation, the third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices. The first network element selects multiple fourth network elements based on the third information, and the multiple fourth network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices.

[0196] Then, the first network element requests the establishment of multiple sessions from the multiple fourth network elements.

[0197] In another possible implementation, the third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices. The first network element selects multiple seventh network elements based on the third information, and the multiple seventh network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices.

[0198] Then, the first network element requests the establishment of multiple sessions from the multiple seventh network elements.

[0199] In other words, this solution can establish one session or multiple sessions.

[0200] In this embodiment, the first network element selects a fourth network element based on the terminal's subscription data and / or policy, and sends fourth information to the fourth network element. This fourth information is used to request the establishment of a first session. Using this method, the first network element provides session management functions and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal. This solves the problem of frequent AMF upgrades and impact on base stations caused by modifications to the SMF selection policy involving new services, and also addresses the issue of SMF upgrades requiring large-network SMF modifications to support the selection of private network SMFs in dual-domain private network scenarios.

[0201] Reference Figure 4 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of a session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application. This example illustrates a scenario where the first network element is S-SMF, the fourth network element is SMF, the fifth network element is S-UPF, the sixth network element is UPF, and the terminal UE initiates a session establishment request to the first network element. Figure 4 As shown, the method may include steps 401-412, as follows:

[0202] 401. The UE sends a session establishment request to the S-SMF. Accordingly, the S-SMF receives the session establishment request.

[0203] 402. The S-SMF obtains the subscription data of the UE and determines the session to be established based on the subscription data of the UE.

[0204] Optionally, the S-SMF verifies that the UE's session establishment request is legitimate.

[0205] Optionally, the S-SMF sends a request to the UDM to obtain the UE's subscription data. For example, the UDM issues a generic DNN. Exemplarily, the UE carries the generic DNN in its session establishment request. The S-SMF confirms the validity of the session establishment request carrying the generic DNN.

[0206] 403. S-SMF selects S-UPF based on the UE's location.

[0207] Optionally, the UE may include its location in the session establishment request.

[0208] 404. The S-SMF requests the S-UPF to establish an N4 session.

[0209] Optionally, an N4 session can be understood as a Packet Forwarding Control Protocol (PFCP) session, a user plane session, etc.

[0210] 405. S-SMF selects an SMF based on the UE's subscription data.

[0211] 406. S-SMF requests session establishment from SMF.

[0212] 407. SMF receives a session establishment request and obtains the session policy.

[0213] For example, the session policy may include Quality of Service (QoS) policy (QoSData), Flow Information, etc.

[0214] 408. SMF selects UPF based on the general DNN, slice, and UE location.

[0215] 409. SMF requests UP to establish N4 session.

[0216] 410. SMF returns the traffic splitting strategy to S-SMF.

[0217] 411. Configure traffic splitting rules from S-SMF to S-UPF.

[0218] 412. The S-SMF replies to the UE with a session establishment response.

[0219] Using this embodiment, any session of the UE can be established. Selecting a new capability SMF and establishing a new session does not require AMF adaptation or upgrade support, as it is completed by the S-SMF, reducing the impact on the base station side.

[0220] Reference Figure 5 The diagram shown is a schematic of another session establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application. This example uses an S-SMF as the first network element, a private network SMF as the fourth network element, an S-UPF as the fifth network element, a UPF as the sixth network element, and the first network element receiving a session establishment request from a terminal UE as an example. Figure 5 As shown, the method may include steps 501-506, as detailed below:

[0221] 501. S-SMF obtains the UE's private network subscription data.

[0222] Optionally, the S-SMF sends a request to the UDM to obtain the UE's subscription data.

[0223] Optionally, the S-SMF obtaining the UE's subscription data can be understood as the S-SMF sending a subscription message to the UDM, and the UDM sending a subscription response to the S-SMF. Specifically, the UDM, upon obtaining the UE's subscription data, proactively sends a notification message to the S-SMF, carrying the UE's subscription data.

[0224] 502. S-SMF obtains the traffic distribution strategy of the private network.

[0225] Optionally, the S-SMF sends a request to the PCF to obtain the UE's private network traffic offloading policy.

[0226] Optionally, the S-SMF obtaining the UE's policy can be understood as follows: the S-SMF sends a subscription message to the PCF, and the PCF sends a subscription response to the S-SMF; the PCF obtains the UE's policy and proactively sends a notification message to the S-SMF, carrying the UE's policy.

[0227] 503. S-SMF configures policies for detecting private network data flows to S-UPF.

[0228] 504. S-UPF performs detection based on the above-mentioned strategy for detecting private network data flows. When a private network data flow is detected, a request is sent to S-SMF. Optionally, a Report Request is sent.

[0229] 505. The S-SMF receives requests from the S-UPF and selects the private network SMF based on the private network contract data and / or the private network's traffic distribution strategy.

[0230] 506. The S-SMF requests the establishment of a private network session from the private network SMF. The private network session can be understood as a second session.

[0231] For example, the process of establishing a private network session may include A1-A6, as follows:

[0232] A1. SMF receives the session establishment request and obtains the session policy.

[0233] For example, the session policy may include QoS policy (QoSData), flow information, etc.

[0234] A2, SMF selects UPF based on the general DNN, slice, and UE location.

[0235] A3, SMF requests UP to establish N4 session.

[0236] A4. The traffic distribution strategy for SMF to return to the private network from S-SMF.

[0237] A5. S-SMF configures traffic splitting rules to S-UPF. Traffic splitting rules can be understood as strategies used to detect private network data flows.

[0238] A6. The S-SMF replies to the UE with a session establishment response.

[0239] For details on this section, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4The steps 407-412 described in the illustrated embodiment will not be repeated here.

[0240] Using this embodiment, it is possible to establish a private network session, select an SMF that supports the private network, and establish a private network session without AMF adaptation or upgrade support, which is completed by the S-SMF, reducing the impact on the base station side.

[0241] Reference Figure 6 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of another session establishment method provided in this application. This example uses an S-SMF as the first network element, an AMF as the second network element, a UDM and an SM-PCF as the third network element, an A-SMF and a private network SMF as the fourth network element, a UL CL UPF as the fifth network element, and a PSA and a private network UPF as the sixth network element. Figure 6 As shown, the method may include steps 601-623, as follows:

[0242] 601. The UE sends a session establishment request to the AMF. Accordingly, the AMF receives the session establishment request.

[0243] Optionally, the session establishment request may include the UE's location.

[0244] 602. AMF selects S-SMF based on the UE's location.

[0245] 603. The AMF sends an SM context establishment request (or a PDU session establishment request) to the S-SMF.

[0246] 604. The S-SMF requests the UDM to obtain the UE's subscription data and confirms that the request is legitimate.

[0247] For example, the contracted data may include one or more DNNs and slices S-NSSAI. The DNN may be, for example, a general-purpose DNN, a specialized DNN, an IMSDNN, etc. Slices may be eMBB slices, mMTC slices, uRLLC slices, etc.

[0248] For example, the UE carries a generic DNN in the request in step 601, and the UDM sends the generic DNN in step 604. Then, the S-SMF confirms that the session establishment request carrying the generic DNN is legitimate.

[0249] In one possible implementation, the S-SMF stores the UE's subscription data. When the UE requests to establish a second session from the core network, the S-SMF does not need to obtain it from the UDM again; the S-SMF can query the stored subscription data to confirm the legitimacy of the request.

[0250] Of course, the S-SMF can also obtain the UE's subscription data from the UDM again, and this solution does not restrict this.

[0251] 605. The S-SMF selects the S-UPF based on the UE's location, requests the establishment of an N4 session, and allocates the N3 and N9 tunnel information for the S-UPF.

[0252] 606. S-SMF selects the service SMF based on the session to be established according to the UE's subscription confirmation.

[0253] For example, the UE carries a general DNN in the request in step 601, the UDM sends the general DNN in step 604, the S-SMF confirms the establishment of a general DNN session, and then the S-SMF selects an A-SMF based on the general DNN and the slice.

[0254] 607. The S-SMF requests the A-SMF to establish a session, carrying the N9 tunnel information of the S-UPF.

[0255] 608. A-SMF obtains policies related to in-session services from SM-PCF.

[0256] This strategy can include QoS policies (QoSData), flow information, etc.

[0257] Understandably, this stream information is related to the aforementioned Figure 3 The fifth and seventh information in the illustrated embodiment correspond to each other, that is, the fifth and seventh information may include the flow information.

[0258] 609. A-SMF selects PSA UPF based on the location of the general DNN, slice, and UE.

[0259] 610. A-SMF requests the PSA UPF to establish an N4 session and allocates N9 tunnel information for the PSA UPF.

[0260] 611. The A-SMF sends a session establishment response to the S-SMF. This session establishment response carries traffic splitting rules (such as N4Information), N9 tunnel information of PSA UPF, and QoSFlow information.

[0261] Understandably, this diversion rule is similar to the aforementioned Figure 3 The fifth and seventh information in the illustrated embodiment correspond to each other, that is, the fifth and seventh information may include the traffic splitting rule.

[0262] In one possible implementation, the S-SMF can also select a private network SMF based on the UE's subscription and establish a private network session. For example, the UE carries a general DNN in the request in step 601, the UDM issues the mapping / binding relationship between the general DNN and the private DNN in step 604, or the private DNN carries an indication of default establishment, and the S-SMF selects a private network SMF based on the private DNN and the slice.

[0263] For example, the method further includes steps 612-616. Specifically:

[0264] 612. The S-SMF requests session establishment from the private network SMF, carrying the N9 tunnel information of the S-UPF.

[0265] 613. The private network SMF obtains the UE's session policy from the SM-PCF.

[0266] This strategy can include QoS policies (QoSData), flow information, etc.

[0267] 614. The private network SMF selects the private network UPF based on the general DNN, slice, and UE location.

[0268] 615. The private network SMF requests the private network UPF to establish an N4 session and allocates the N9 tunnel information of the private network UPF.

[0269] 616. The private network SMF sends a session establishment response to the S-SMF, carrying traffic splitting rules (such as N4Information), N9 tunnel information of the private network UPF, and QoSFlow information.

[0270] It should be noted that steps 607-611 and steps 612-616 can be executed in parallel, or steps 607-611 can be executed first and then steps 612-616, or steps 612-616 can be executed first and then steps 607-611. This solution does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0271] 617. The S-SMF sends an N1N2MessageTransfer message to the AMF. This message carries PDU session information (such as the IDs of the two PDU sessions), an N2 message (containing the N3 tunnel information of the S-UPF in step 605, and the QoSFlow information in steps 611 and 616), and an N1 message. Accordingly, the AMF receives this message.

[0272] 618. The AMF sends an N2 PDU session request to the RAN, which includes the aforementioned N1 and N2 messages. The RAN receives the request accordingly.

[0273] 619. The RAN sends a message to the UE to indicate acceptance of the establishment of the aforementioned session. This message includes the aforementioned N1 message. Accordingly, the UE receives this message.

[0274] 620. The RAN replies to the AMF with requested N2 information, such as sending a PDU resource setup response (e.g., PDUResource Setup Response) to the AMF. This response carries the RAN's N3 tunnel information. The AMF receives this response accordingly.

[0275] 621. The AMF sends a PDU session SM context update request to the S-SMF, which carries the RAN's N3 tunnel information. The S-SMF receives the request accordingly.

[0276] 622. The S-SMF sends an N4 session update request to the UL CL UPF. This request carries the RAN's N3 tunnel information from step 620, the traffic splitting rules from steps 611 and 616, and the QoSFlow information. Accordingly, the A-SMF receives this request.

[0277] 623. S-SMF responds to AMF.

[0278] This example enables session establishment, including the establishment of general PDU sessions and private network PDU sessions. It should be noted that both general PDU sessions and private network PDU sessions can be understood as the first session in the aforementioned embodiments. Furthermore, selecting the SMF and private network SMF, and establishing general and private sessions, do not require AMF adaptation or upgrade support; these are handled by the S-SMF, reducing the impact on the base station side.

[0279] Reference Figure 7 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of another session establishment method provided in this application embodiment. This example uses an S-SMF as the first network element, an AMF as the second network element, a L-PCF as the third network element, a Local Policy Control Network Element (L-PCF) as the fourth network element, a Local Session Management Network Element (Local SMF, L-SMF) as the fifth network element, and an edge UPF as the fifth network element, illustrating how the terminal triggers the establishment of a connection to the edge application service / local campus locally. Figure 7 As shown, the method may include steps 701-722, as follows:

[0280] 701. UE has established a session.

[0281] For an introduction to this section, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 6 The example shown illustrates the establishment of a session, but it could also involve establishing multiple sessions, which will not be elaborated upon here.

[0282] 702. S-SMF obtains the correspondence between applications and Data Network Access Identifiers (DNAIs).

[0283] For example, S-SMF obtains this mapping by reading the local configuration.

[0284] 703. S-SMF distributes configurations to the Uplink Classifier UPF (UL CL UPF) (such as S-UPF) to support sending Domain Name System (DNS) messages to the Edge Application Server Discovery Function (EASDF).

[0285] 704. S-SMF configures message processing rules for EASDF based on the DNAI corresponding to the service.

[0286] For example, the message sent by S-SMF to EASDF can be Neasdf_DNSContext_CreateRequest, which may include at least one of DNS message processing rules, UE IP address, and DNN.

[0287] In one possible implementation, the Neasdf_DNSContext_Create Request message is sent before the S-SMF sends the N1N2MessageTransfer message to the AMF.

[0288] Optionally, DNS processing rules based on the flow granularity of local services / applications can be statically configured in advance on EASDF. The DNS message processing rules in the Neasdf_DNSContext_Create Request message mentioned above only contain the rule ID and the association information between the rule ID and a PDU session of the terminal UE or terminal. This avoids problems such as frequent rule modifications requiring changes to the central SMF, long paths from the central SMF to the local EASDF, and lack of real-time updates in EASDF dynamic configuration scenarios.

[0289] 705. The S-SMF sends a message to the UE, which instructs the UE to configure EASDF as a DNS server.

[0290] For example, the above instructions may be included in Figure 6In the illustrated embodiment, step 619 includes the PDU Session Establishment Accept message. For example, this PDU Session Establishment Accept message carries the IP address of EASDF.

[0291] 706. The UE sends a DNS request (such as a DNS Query) to the EASDF, and then the EASDF forwards the DNS Query to the corresponding DNS server according to the DNS message processing rules obtained above.

[0292] Optionally, the UE sends the DNS request to the UL CL UPF, which then forwards it to the EASDF.

[0293] 707. EASDF receives DNS responses.

[0294] 708. EASDF reports the DNAI corresponding to the application to S-SMF according to the DNS processing rules.

[0295] 709. S-SMF selects the local service SMF (L-SMF) based on DNAI and determines the local service path.

[0296] 710. The S-SMF sends a session establishment request to the L-SMF, which carries the N9 tunnel information of the S-UPF. Accordingly, the L-SMF receives the session establishment request.

[0297] 711. L-SMF obtains local policies from L-PCF.

[0298] For example, the strategy may include QoS policies (QoSData), flow information, etc.

[0299] 712. L-SMF selects edge UPF (L-UPF) based on one or more of the following: DNN, slice, DNAI, and UE location.

[0300] 713. The L-SMF requests the establishment of an N4 session from the edge UPF.

[0301] 714. The L-SMF sends a session establishment response to the S-SMF, which carries traffic splitting rules (such as N4Information) and QoSFlow information.

[0302] 715. The S-SMF sends an N1N2MessageTransfer message to the AMF. The AMF receives the message accordingly.

[0303] Optionally, if the L-SMF indicates the establishment of local QoS (with QoS Flow information carried in step 714), the S-SMF sends an N1N2MessageTransfer message to the AMF, which carries the QoS information to be established. Then, the AMF sends this message to the RAN in step 716, and the RAN sends it to the UE in step 717.

[0304] 716. The AMF sends an N2 PDU session request to the RAN, which includes the QoS information that needs to be established as described above. Accordingly, the RAN receives the request.

[0305] 717. The RAN sends a message to the UE to indicate acceptance of the establishment of the aforementioned session. This message includes the QoS information required for the establishment. Accordingly, the UE receives this message.

[0306] 718. The RAN replies to the AMF with an N2 PDU session response. The AMF receives the response accordingly.

[0307] 719. The AMF sends a PDU session update request or an SM context update request to the S-SMF. The S-SMF receives the request accordingly.

[0308] 720. The S-SMF configures the traffic splitting rules and QoSFlow information to the UL CL UPF. Accordingly, the UL CL UPF receives the traffic splitting rules and QoSFlow information.

[0309] 721. The S-SMF sends a PDU session SM context update response to the AMF.

[0310] 722. EASDF sends a DNS response to the UE.

[0311] This embodiment enables local sessions or local connections, where the terminal initiates the establishment of a connection to an edge application service or the local campus network. The UL CL UPF can forward the service flow from the edge application or local campus network, enabling the terminal to access edge / local services. Specifically, the S-SMF is responsible for supporting the connection to the edge application service or local campus network; the AMF does not require adaptation / upgrade to support this connection establishment.

[0312] It should be noted that, in the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between the various embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0313] The methods of the embodiments of this application have been described in detail above, and the apparatus of the embodiments of this application is provided below. It is understood that the division of multiple units or modules in the various apparatus embodiments of this application is only a logical division based on function and is not intended to limit the specific structure of the apparatus. In specific implementations, some functional modules may be subdivided into more smaller functional modules, and some functional modules may be combined into a single functional module. However, regardless of whether these functional modules are subdivided or combined, the general flow executed by the apparatus is the same. For example, some apparatuses include a receiving unit and a transmitting unit. In some designs, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit can also be integrated into a communication unit, which can implement the functions implemented by the receiving unit and the transmitting unit. Typically, each unit corresponds to its own program code (or program instructions). When the program code corresponding to each unit runs on the processor, it causes the unit to be controlled by the processing unit to execute the corresponding flow and thus achieve the corresponding function.

[0314] This application also provides an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, a session establishment apparatus is provided, including modules (or means) for implementing the steps performed by the first network element in any of the above methods.

[0315] For example, refer to Figure 8a The diagram shown is a schematic representation of a session establishment apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. This session establishment apparatus is used to implement the aforementioned session establishment method. The apparatus provides session management functions and is used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal, for example... Figure 3 The function of the first network element in the session establishment method shown.

[0316] like Figure 8a As shown, the device may include a communication module 801 and a processing module 802, as detailed below:

[0317] Communication module 801 is used to receive first information from the second network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of a first session;

[0318] The communication module 801 is further configured to send second information to a third network element, the second information being used to request the acquisition of the terminal's subscription data and / or policy;

[0319] The communication module 801 is further configured to receive third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy;

[0320] Processing module 802 is used to select a fourth network element based on the third information;

[0321] The communication module 801 is also used to send fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

[0322] In one possible implementation, the contract data includes a first data network identifier and a first slice, wherein the fourth network element supports the first data network identifier and the first slice.

[0323] In one possible implementation, the first information includes the location of the terminal, and the processing module 802 is further configured to:

[0324] Select the fifth network element based on the location of the terminal;

[0325] The communication module 801 is further configured to receive fifth information from the fourth network element, the fifth information being used to indicate the service data flow of the first session;

[0326] The communication module 801 is further configured to send a sixth message to the fifth network element, the sixth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the first session to the sixth network element.

[0327] In one possible implementation, the third information includes a second data network identifier and a second slice, and the communication module 801 is further configured to:

[0328] Receive seventh information from the third network element, the seventh information being used to indicate the service data flow of the second session;

[0329] Send the eighth information to the fifth network element, the eighth information being used to instruct the fifth network element to perform detection based on the seventh information;

[0330] The system receives a ninth message from the fifth network element, the ninth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to detect the service data flow of the second session;

[0331] The processing module 802 is further configured to select a seventh network element based on the ninth information and the third information, wherein the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice.

[0332] In one possible implementation, the communication module 801 is further configured to:

[0333] Send the tenth message to the seventh network element, the tenth message being used to request the establishment of a second session;

[0334] The eleventh message is sent to the fifth network element, which instructs the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the second session to the eighth network element.

[0335] In one possible implementation, the third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices, and the processing module 802 is further configured to select multiple fourth network elements according to the third information, wherein the multiple fourth network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices;

[0336] The communication module 801 is also used to request the establishment of multiple sessions from the plurality of fourth network elements;

[0337] And / or,

[0338] The processing module 802 is further configured to select multiple seventh network elements based on the third information, wherein the multiple seventh network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices;

[0339] The communication module 801 is also used to request the establishment of multiple sessions from the plurality of seventh network elements.

[0340] In one possible implementation, the second network element is a network element providing access and / or mobility management functions; and / or, the third network element is a network element providing unified data management functions; or, the third network element is a network element providing policy control functions or subscription data management functions; and / or, the fourth network element is a network element providing session management functions, and the fourth network element manages the first session; and / or, the fifth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the device controls the fifth network element; and / or, the sixth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element; and / or, the seventh network element is a network element providing session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session; and / or, the eighth network element is a network element providing user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element.

[0341] For a description of each of the above modules, please refer to the description in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0342] For example, embodiments of this application also provide an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For instance, a session establishment apparatus is provided that includes modules (or means) for implementing the steps performed by the second network element in any of the above methods.

[0343] like Figure 8b As shown, the device may include a communication module 803 and a processing module 804, as detailed below:

[0344] The communication module 803 is configured to receive twelfth information from a terminal or a base station, the twelfth information being used to request the establishment of a first session, the twelfth information including the location of the terminal;

[0345] The processing module 804 is used to select a first network element according to the location of the terminal. The first network element is a network element that provides session management functions. The first network element is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal.

[0346] The communication module 803 is further configured to send first information to the first network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of the first session.

[0347] In one possible implementation, the communication module 803 is further configured to:

[0348] Receive the thirteenth message from the first network element, the thirteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session;

[0349] The fourteenth message is sent to the terminal or base station, the fourteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

[0350] In one possible implementation, the apparatus is an apparatus that provides access and / or mobility management functions.

[0351] For a description of each of the above modules, please refer to the description in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0352] It should be understood that the division of modules in the above devices is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the modules in the session establishment device can be implemented by a processor calling software; for example, the session establishment device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of each module of the device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the modules in the device can be implemented as hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all units can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functionality of some or all of the above units is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD), such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), which can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the above units. All modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0353] Reference Figure 9 The diagram shown is a hardware structure schematic of another session establishment device provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 9 The session establishment device 900 shown (which may specifically be a computer device) includes a memory 901, a processor 902, a communication interface 903, and a bus 904. The memory 901, processor 902, and communication interface 903 are interconnected via the bus 904.

[0354] The memory 901 can be a read-only memory (ROM), a static storage device, a dynamic storage device, or a random access memory (RAM).

[0355] The memory 901 can store programs. When the program stored in the memory 901 is executed by the processor 902, the processor 902 and the communication interface 903 are used to execute the various steps of the session establishment method of the embodiments of this application.

[0356] Processor 902 is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, processor 902 can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a central processing unit (CPU), microprocessor, graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a type of microprocessor), or digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, processor 902 can achieve certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. These logical relationships of hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, processor 902 can be a hardware circuit implemented as an ASIC or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In reconfigurable hardware circuits, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the processor loading instructions to achieve the functions of some or all of the above modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as a type of ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), tensor processing unit (TPU), or deep learning processing unit (DPU). The processor 902 is used to execute related programs to implement the functions required by the units in the session establishment apparatus of this application embodiment, or to execute the session establishment method of this application method embodiment.

[0357] As can be seen, each module in the above device can be one or more processors (or processing circuits) configured to implement the above methods, such as: CPU, GPU, NPU, TPU, DPU, microprocessor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or a combination of at least two of these processor types.

[0358] Furthermore, the modules in the above devices can be integrated in whole or in part, or they can be implemented independently. In one implementation, these modules are integrated together as a system-on-a-chip (SOC). The SOC may include at least one processor for implementing any of the above methods or for implementing the functions of the modules of the device. The at least one processor may be of different types, such as CPU and FPGA, CPU and artificial intelligence processor, CPU and GPU, etc.

[0359] The communication interface 903 uses transceiver devices, such as, but not limited to, transceivers, to enable communication between the device 900 and other devices or communication networks. For example, data can be acquired through the communication interface 903.

[0360] Bus 904 may include a pathway for transmitting information between various components of device 900 (e.g., memory 901, processor 902, communication interface 903).

[0361] It should be noted that, although Figure 9 The illustrated device 900 only shows the memory, processor, and communication interface. However, those skilled in the art should understand that in specific implementations, device 900 may also include other devices necessary for normal operation. Furthermore, depending on specific needs, those skilled in the art should understand that device 900 may also include hardware devices for implementing other additional functions. Moreover, those skilled in the art should understand that device 900 may only include the devices necessary for implementing the embodiments of this application, and may not necessarily include... Figure 9 All the devices shown.

[0362] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer or processor, cause the computer or processor to perform one or more steps of any of the above methods.

[0363] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions. When the computer program product is run on a computer or processor, it causes the computer or processor to perform one or more steps of any of the methods described above.

[0364] It should be understood that in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, " / " indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can represent A or B; where A and B can be singular or plural. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, or abc, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. Additionally, to facilitate a clear description of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used in the embodiments of this application to distinguish identical or similar items with substantially the same function and effect. Those skilled in the art will understand that the terms "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity or execution order, and the terms "first" and "second" do not necessarily imply difference. In this application, the terms "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that something is an example, illustration, or description. Any embodiment or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being better or more advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of terms such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner to facilitate understanding.

[0365] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the division of units is merely a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For instance, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. The coupling, direct coupling, or communication connection shown or discussed between each other may be indirect coupling or communication connection through some interfaces, apparatuses, or units, and may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0366] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0367] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in or transmitted through a computer-readable storage medium. The computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), or magnetic media, such as floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, magnetic disks, or optical media, such as digital versatile discs (DVDs), or semiconductor media, such as solid state disks (SSDs).

[0368] The above description is merely a specific implementation of the embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be covered within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A session establishment method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a first network element, which is a network element that provides session management functions. The first network element is used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal. The method includes: Receive first information from the second network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of a first session; Send a second message to a third network element, the second message being used to request the acquisition of the terminal's subscription data and / or policy; Receive third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy; A fourth network element is selected based on the third information, and fourth information is sent to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The contracted data includes a first data network identifier and a first slice, wherein the fourth network element supports the first data network identifier and the first slice.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first information includes the location of the terminal, and the method further includes: Select the fifth network element based on the location of the terminal; Receive fifth information from the fourth network element, the fifth information being used to indicate the service data flow of the first session; A sixth message is sent to the fifth network element, the sixth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the first session to the sixth network element.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The third information includes a second data network identifier and a second slice; the method further includes: Receive seventh information from the third network element, the seventh information being used to indicate the service data flow of the second session; Send the eighth information to the fifth network element, the eighth information being used to instruct the fifth network element to perform detection based on the seventh information; The system receives a ninth message from the fifth network element, the ninth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to detect the service data flow of the second session; The seventh network element is selected based on the ninth information and the third information, and the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the tenth message to the seventh network element, the tenth message being used to request the establishment of a second session; The eleventh message is sent to the fifth network element, which instructs the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the second session to the eighth network element.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices, wherein: Multiple fourth network elements are selected based on the third information, and the multiple fourth network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices; Request the establishment of multiple sessions to the aforementioned multiple fourth network elements; And / or, Multiple seventh network elements are selected based on the third information, and the multiple seventh network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices; Request the establishment of multiple sessions from the aforementioned multiple seventh network elements.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The second network element is a network element that provides access and / or mobility management functions; and / or, the third network element is a network element that provides unified data management functions or subscription data management functions; or, the third network element is a network element that provides policy control functions. And / or, the fourth network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the fourth network element manages the first session; And / or, the fifth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the first network element controls the fifth network element; and / or, the sixth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element; and / or, the seventh network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session; And / or, the eighth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element.

8. A session establishment method, characterized in that, Applied to a second network element, the method includes: Receive a twelfth message from a terminal or base station, the twelfth message being used to request the establishment of a first session, the twelfth message including the location of the terminal; The first network element is selected based on the location of the terminal. The first network element is a network element that provides session management functions. The first network element is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal. Send first information to the first network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of the first session.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the thirteenth message from the first network element, the thirteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session; The fourteenth message is sent to the terminal or base station, the fourteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The second network element is a network element that provides access and / or mobility management functions.

11. A session establishment apparatus, characterized in that, The device is a device for providing session management functions, used to manage or control one or more sessions of a terminal, and the device includes: The communication module is used to receive first information from the second network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of a first session; The communication module is further configured to send second information to a third network element, the second information being used to request the acquisition of the terminal's subscription data and / or policy; The communication module is further configured to receive third information from the third network element, the third information including the terminal's subscription data and / or policy; The processing module is used to select the fourth network element based on the third information; The communication module is also used to send fourth information to the fourth network element, the fourth information being used to request the establishment of a first session.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The contracted data includes a first data network identifier and a first slice, wherein the fourth network element supports the first data network identifier and the first slice.

13. The apparatus according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that, The first information includes the location of the terminal, and the processing module is further configured to: Select the fifth network element based on the location of the terminal; The communication module is further configured to receive fifth information from the fourth network element, the fifth information being used to indicate the service data flow of the first session; The communication module is also used to send a sixth message to the fifth network element, the sixth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the first session to the sixth network element.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, characterized in that, The third information includes a second data network identifier and a second slice. The communication module is further used for: Receive seventh information from the third network element, the seventh information being used to indicate the service data flow of the second session; Send the eighth information to the fifth network element, the eighth information being used to instruct the fifth network element to perform detection based on the seventh information; The system receives a ninth message from the fifth network element, the ninth message being used to instruct the fifth network element to detect the service data flow of the second session; The processing module is further configured to select a seventh network element based on the ninth information and the third information, wherein the seventh network element supports the second data network identifier and the second slice.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that, The communication module is also used for: Send the tenth message to the seventh network element, the tenth message being used to request the establishment of a second session; The eleventh message is sent to the fifth network element, which instructs the fifth network element to forward the service data stream of the second session to the eighth network element.

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that, The third information includes multiple data network identifiers and slices. The processing module is further configured to select multiple fourth network elements based on the third information, wherein the multiple fourth network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices. The communication module is also used to request the establishment of multiple sessions from the plurality of fourth network elements; And / or, The processing module is further configured to select multiple seventh network elements based on the third information, wherein the multiple seventh network elements correspond to the multiple data network identifiers and slices; The communication module is also used to request the establishment of multiple sessions from the plurality of seventh network elements.

17. The apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that, The second network element is a network element that provides access and / or mobility management functions; and / or, the third network element is a network element that provides unified data management functions or subscription data management functions; or, the third network element is a network element that provides policy control functions. And / or, the fourth network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the fourth network element manages the first session; And / or, the fifth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the first network element controls the fifth network element; and / or, the sixth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the fourth network element controls the sixth network element; and / or, the seventh network element is a network element that provides session management functions, and the seventh network element manages the second session; And / or, the eighth network element is a network element that provides user plane functions, and the seventh network element controls the eighth network element.

18. A session establishment apparatus, characterized in that, The device includes: A communication module is configured to receive twelfth information from a terminal or a base station, the twelfth information being used to request the establishment of a first session, the twelfth information including the location of the terminal; The processing module is used to select a first network element based on the location of the terminal. The first network element is a network element that provides session management functions. The first network element is used to manage or control one or more sessions of the terminal. The communication module is further configured to send first information to the first network element, the first information being used to request the establishment of the first session.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that, The communication module is also used for: Receive the thirteenth message from the first network element, the thirteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session; The fourteenth message is sent to the terminal or base station, the fourteenth message indicating acceptance of the establishment of the first session.

20. The apparatus according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, The device is an apparatus that provides access and / or mobility management functions.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor configured to cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-7 by executing a computer program or computer-executable instructions stored in a memory, and / or by means of logic circuitry.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 8-10 by executing a computer program or computer-executable instructions stored in a memory, and / or by logic circuitry.

23. The apparatus according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, It also includes the memory.

24. A communication system, characterized in that, The system includes the communication device as described in claim 21 and the communication device as described in claim 22.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The device stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, causes the method described in any one of claims 1-7 to be implemented; or causes the method described in any one of claims 8-10 to be implemented.

26. A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed on a processor, cause the method of any one of claims 1-7 to be implemented; or cause the method of any one of claims 8-10 to be implemented.

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