Method of communication and communication device

Abstract

The application provides a method and a communication device. The method comprises: a core network element configuring first parameter information, the first parameter information being parameter information for quality of service (QoS) control of a non-third generation partnership project (N3GPP) access technology, the first parameter information being used for performing QoS control on a service flow data packet transmitted by a first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology, and the core network element sending the first parameter information. The application configures the parameter for QoS control of the N3GPP access technology at the core network element, and sends the parameter to an N3GPP access side, so that the core network element and the N3GPP access side can achieve the unification of a QoS control strategy when performing QoS control on the service flow data packet, and the problem of poor user experience caused by a QoS control strategy conflict can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more specifically, to a method and apparatus for communication. Background Technology

[0002] The 5G network architecture proposed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards group supports not only 3GPP access technologies for accessing the core network (CN), such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, or access via 5G radio access network (RAN) equipment, but also non-3GPP (N3GPP) access technologies, namely, access via the N3GPP interworking function (N3IWF) or the next-generation packet data gateway (ngPDG).

[0003] The core network functions are divided into user plane functions (UPFs) and control plane functions (CPFs). UPFs are primarily responsible for packet forwarding, quality of service (QoS) control, and billing information statistics. CPFs are primarily responsible for user registration and authentication, mobility management, and distributing packet forwarding policies and QoS control policies to UPFs.

[0004] In the existing technology, the QoS control and management of terminal devices accessing the network through 3GPP access technology is relatively mature. However, the QoS control and management of terminal devices accessing the network through N3GPP access technology is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and communication device that can unify the QoS control policies between the core network elements and the N3GPP access side, thereby avoiding poor user experience caused by conflicts in QoS control policies.

[0006] Firstly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a core network element, or by a chip or circuit configured within the core network element; this application does not limit the execution of this method. The method includes: the core network element configuring first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for non-3GPP access technology; the first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by a first terminal device through N3GPP access technology; and the core network element sending the first parameter information.

[0007] Based on the above scheme, this application configures QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology in core network elements (e.g., Unified Data Management Element UDM, Unified Data Storage Element UDR), and sends these QoS control parameters to the N3GPP access side (including N3GPP access equipment and terminal equipment). This enables the core network elements and the N3GPP access side to achieve unified QoS control policies when performing QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted through N3GPP access technology, thereby improving user experience.

[0008] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0009] It should be understood that the first parameter information can be the channel access parameters of a specific N3GPP access technology, such as the enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA) parameters, or it can be the 5G QoS identifier, i.e. the correspondence between 5QI and channel access parameters, or the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The above correspondence can be used by the N3GPP access side to determine the specific channel access parameters based on the 5QI or QoS identifier.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, before the core network element sends the first parameter information, the core network element receives first indication information, which indicates that the first terminal device accesses the core network element through N3GPP access technology, and the core network element determines the QoS control parameter information based on the first indication information.

[0011] Based on the above scheme, when the core network element knows that the first terminal device accesses the network through N3GPP access technology, it sends the QoS control parameter information to the N3GPP access side. When the core network element knows that the first terminal device accesses the network through 3GPP access technology, it sends the QoS control parameters for 3GPP access technology to the 3GPP access side (including 3GPP access equipment, such as radio access network equipment RAN, and terminal equipment).

[0012] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the core network element obtains mapping relationship information, which is used to indicate the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. Based on the mapping relationship information, the core network element determines the QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information. The first identifier is a related identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0013] It should be understood that the first parameter information is one of the QoS control parameter information sets among multiple QoS control parameter information sets.

[0014] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the first identifier includes at least one of a location area identifier and a network identifier.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible implementation of the first aspect, the core network element is configured with a correspondence between multiple location area identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information, and / or a correspondence between multiple network identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information.

[0016] Based on the above scheme, in addition to configuring the first parameter information mentioned above, the core network element can also configure the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple N3GPP network related information. For example, it can configure the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple location area identifiers. When the first indication information received by the core network element includes a location area identifier (or network identifier), the core network element can determine the set of QoS control parameter information corresponding to the location area identifier (or network identifier) ​​from the multiple sets of QoS control parameter information, which is the first parameter information. In other words, when configuring the QoS control parameter information, the core network element has already configured which location area (or network identifier) ​​corresponds to which N3GPP network and which QoS control parameter information.

[0017] Secondly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by an N3GPP access network device, or by a chip or circuit configured in the N3GPP access network device; this application does not limit the execution of this method. The method includes: the N3GPP access network device receiving first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for N3GPP access technology; and the N3GPP access network device performing QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by a first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information.

[0018] N3GPP access network devices can pre-store or configure QoS control parameters locally. However, these pre-stored or configured QoS control parameters may differ from those issued by the core network elements. Therefore, N3GPP access network devices can perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device via N3GPP access technology based on the QoS control parameters received from the core network elements, such as the first parameter information. This achieves consistency between the QoS control policies of the core network elements and the N3GPP access side in N3GPP access technology, thereby improving the user experience.

[0019] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the N3GPP access network device receives a first terminal identifier from the N3GPP access gateway. The first terminal identifier is the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network. The N3GPP access network device determines the service flow data packet based on the first terminal identifier.

[0020] Based on the above scheme, the N3GPP access gateway assigns a first terminal identifier specifically for N3GPP access to the first terminal device, which enables the first terminal device and the access network device to distinguish the QoS control parameter information of 3GPP access from the QoS control parameter information of N3GPP access through the first identifier.

[0021] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0022] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the N3GPP access network device receives the correspondence information between service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, the service flow description information being used to determine the service flow data packet.

[0023] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible implementation of the second aspect, the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The N3GPP access network device determines the channel QoS parameters of the service flow data packet based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. Based on the channel QoS parameters, the device performs QoS control on the service flow data packet transmitted by the first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology.

[0024] Thirdly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first terminal device, or by a chip or circuit configured in the first terminal device; this application does not limit the execution of this method. The method includes: the first terminal device receiving first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for non-3GPP access technology; and the first terminal device performing QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information.

[0025] Based on the above scheme, the first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the parameter information for QoS control of N3GPP access technology received from the core network element. This can achieve the unification of QoS control strategies in N3GPP access technology, thereby improving the user experience.

[0026] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation of the third aspect, the Q first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology and bandwidth at the terminal device granularity. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0027] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation of the third aspect, the service flow data packet includes a first terminal identifier, which is the identifier of a first terminal device in the N3GPP access network.

[0028] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation of the third aspect, the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The first terminal device determines the channel QoS parameters based on the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology based on the channel QoS parameters.

[0029] In conjunction with the third aspect, in one possible implementation of the third aspect, the first terminal device receives the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information, and the first terminal device determines the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection corresponding to the service flow data packet based on the service flow description information and the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information.

[0030] Fourthly, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by an N3GPP access gateway, or by a chip or circuit configured within the N3GPP access gateway; this application does not limit the execution of this method. The method includes: a non-3GPP N3GPP access gateway receiving first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for N3GPP access technology; the N3GPP access gateway sending the QoS control parameter information to an N3GPP access network device or a first terminal device; the first parameter information being used to perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology.

[0031] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the N3GPP access gateway determines a first terminal identifier, which is the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network, and sends the first terminal identifier to the N3GPP access network device.

[0032] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0033] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the N3GPP access gateway determines the correspondence information between service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection. The service flow description information is used to determine the service flow data packet. The N3GPP access gateway sends the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection to the first terminal device or the N3GPP access network device.

[0034] In conjunction with the fourth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the N3GPP access gateway determines the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and 5QI, and the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology.

[0035] Fifthly, a communication device is provided. This device may be a core network element, or it may be a chip or circuit configured within a core network element; this application does not limit the specific application to this. The device includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The processing unit is used to configure first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for non-3GPP access technology. This first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by a first terminal device through N3GPP access technology. The transceiver unit is used to transmit the first parameter information.

[0036] Based on the above scheme, this application configures QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology in core network elements (e.g., Unified Data Management Element UDM, Unified Data Storage Element UDR), and sends these QoS control parameters to the N3GPP connection (including N3GPP access equipment and the first terminal equipment). This enables the core network elements and the N3GPP access side to achieve unified QoS control policies when performing QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted through N3GPP access technology, thereby improving the user experience.

[0037] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0038] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fifth aspect, before the transceiver unit sends the first parameter information, the transceiver unit is further configured to receive first indication information, the first indication information indicating that the first terminal device accesses the core network element through N3GPP access technology, and the processing unit is further configured to determine the first parameter information based on the first indication information.

[0039] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the processing unit is specifically used to obtain mapping relationship information, which is used to indicate the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. The processing unit is also used to determine the QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information based on the mapping relationship information. The first identifier is a related identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0040] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the first identifier includes at least one of a location area identifier and a network identifier.

[0041] In conjunction with the fifth aspect, in one possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the processing unit is further configured to configure the correspondence between multiple location area identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information, and / or the correspondence between multiple network identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information.

[0042] Sixthly, a communication device is provided. This device may be an N3GPP access network device, or it may be a chip or circuit configured within an N3GPP access network device; this application does not limit the specific application to this. The device includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit is used to receive first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for N3GPP access technology. The processing unit is used to perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by a first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information.

[0043] N3GPP access network devices can pre-store or configure QoS control parameters locally. However, these pre-stored or configured parameters may differ from those issued by the core network elements, as the core network elements may use parameters intended for QoS control in 3GPP access technology. Therefore, N3GPP access network devices can perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device via N3GPP access technology based on the received QoS control parameters from the core network elements. This achieves consistency between the QoS control policies of the core network elements and the N3GPP access side in N3GPP access technology, thereby improving user experience.

[0044] In conjunction with the sixth aspect, in one possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to receive a first terminal identifier from the N3GPP access gateway, the first terminal identifier being the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network, and the processing unit is further configured to determine the service flow data packet based on the first terminal identifier.

[0045] In conjunction with the sixth aspect, in one possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0046] In conjunction with the sixth aspect, in one possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the transceiver unit is further configured to receive correspondence information between service flow description information and QoS identifiers of the N3GPP connection, wherein the service flow description information is used to determine the service flow data packet.

[0047] In conjunction with the sixth aspect, in one possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The processing unit is specifically used to determine the channel QoS parameters of the service flow data packet based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The processing unit is also used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology based on the channel QoS parameters.

[0048] In a seventh aspect, a communication apparatus is provided. The apparatus may be a first terminal device, or it may be a chip or circuit configured in the first terminal device; this application does not limit the specific application to this. The apparatus includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit is used to receive first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for non-3GPP access technology. The processing unit is used to perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information.

[0049] Based on the above scheme, the first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the parameter information for QoS control of N3GPP access technology received from the core network element. This can achieve the unification of QoS control strategies in N3GPP access technology, thereby improving the user experience.

[0050] In conjunction with the seventh aspect, in one possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology and bandwidth at the terminal device granularity. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0051] In conjunction with the seventh aspect, in one possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the service flow data packet includes a first terminal identifier, which is an identifier of a first terminal device in the N3GPP access network.

[0052] In conjunction with the seventh aspect, in one possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The processing unit is specifically used to determine the channel QoS parameters based on the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection. The processing unit is also used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology based on the channel QoS parameters.

[0053] In conjunction with the seventh aspect, in one possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the transceiver unit is specifically configured to receive the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information, and the processing unit is specifically configured to determine the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection corresponding to the service flow data packet based on the service flow description information and the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information.

[0054] Eighthly, a communication device is provided. This device may be an N3GPP access gateway, or it may be a chip or circuit configured within an N3GPP access gateway; this application does not limit the specific application in this regard. The device includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit is configured to receive first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for N3GPP access technology. The transceiver unit is also configured to send the first parameter information to an N3GPP access network device or a first terminal device. The first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology.

[0055] In conjunction with the eighth aspect, in one possible implementation of the eighth aspect, the processing unit is configured to determine a first terminal identifier, the first terminal identifier being an identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network, and the transceiver unit is further configured to send the first terminal identifier to the N3GPP access network device.

[0056] In conjunction with the eighth aspect, in one possible implementation of the eighth aspect, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier on the N3GPP connection side and channel QoS parameters.

[0057] In conjunction with the eighth aspect, in one possible implementation of the eighth aspect, the processing unit is specifically configured to determine the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, the service flow description information being used to determine the service flow data packet, and the transceiver unit is further configured to send the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection to the first terminal device or the N3GPP access network device.

[0058] In conjunction with the eighth aspect, in one possible implementation of the eighth aspect, the processing unit is specifically configured to determine the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and 5QI, and the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology.

[0059] A ninth aspect provides a communication apparatus, which may be a core network element as described in the first aspect, an electronic device configured in a core network element, or a larger device including a core network element. The apparatus is used to perform the method provided in the first aspect.

[0060] The device includes a processor coupled to a memory for executing instructions in the memory to implement the methods described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof. Optionally, the device further includes a memory that may be deployed separately from the processor or centrally. Optionally, the device further includes a communication interface to which the processor is coupled.

[0061] In one implementation, the communication interface can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0062] In another implementation, the device is a chip configured within a core network element. When the device is a chip configured within a core network element, the communication interface can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip or chip system. The processor can also be manifested as a processing circuit or logic circuit.

[0063] Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0064] In specific implementation, the processor can be one or more chips, the input circuit can be input pins, the output circuit can be output pins, and the processing circuit can be transistors, gate circuits, flip-flops, and various logic circuits. The input signal received by the input circuit can be, but is not limited to, a signal received and input by a receiver, and the signal output by the output circuit can be, but is not limited to, an output to a transmitter and transmitted by the transmitter. Furthermore, the input circuit and the output circuit can be the same circuit, used as both input and output circuits at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the processor and various circuits.

[0065] A tenth aspect provides a communication apparatus, which can be an N3GPP access network device as described in the second aspect, a first terminal device as described in the third aspect, or an N3GPP access gateway as described in the fourth aspect. The apparatus is used to perform the methods provided in the second, third, or fourth aspect. The apparatus includes a transceiver.

[0066] Optionally, the device further includes a memory, and the processor is coupled to the memory and can be used to execute instructions in the memory to implement any one of the second to fourth aspects described above, and the communication method in any possible implementation of the second to fourth aspects. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory, which may be deployed separately from the processor or centrally. Optionally, the device further includes a communication interface, and the processor is coupled to the communication interface.

[0067] In one implementation, the communication interface can be a transceiver, or an input / output interface.

[0068] In another implementation, the device is a chip configured in an N3GPP access network device, a first terminal device, or an N3GPP access gateway. When the device is a chip configured in an N3GPP access network device, a first terminal device, or an N3GPP access gateway, the communication interface can be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip or chip system. The processor can also be manifested as a processing circuit or a logic circuit.

[0069] Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0070] In specific implementation, the processor can be one or more chips, the input circuit can be input pins, the output circuit can be output pins, and the processing circuit can be transistors, gate circuits, flip-flops, and various logic circuits. The input signal received by the input circuit can be, but is not limited to, a signal received and input by a receiver, and the signal output by the output circuit can be, but is not limited to, an output to a transmitter and transmitted by the transmitter. Furthermore, the input circuit and the output circuit can be the same circuit, used as both input and output circuits at different times. This application does not limit the specific implementation of the processor and various circuits.

[0071] Eleventhly, a computer program product is provided, comprising: a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when run, causes a computer to perform any of the aspects given in the first to fourth aspects above, and the method in any possible implementation of the first to fourth aspects.

[0072] In a twelfth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided that stores a computer program (also referred to as code or instructions) that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the methods given in the first to fourth aspects above, and in any possible implementation of the first to fourth aspects.

[0073] In a thirteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including the aforementioned core network elements, N3GPP access network equipment, and a first terminal device. Optionally, the communication system further includes an N3GPP access gateway. Attached Figure Description

[0074] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture accessed via 3GPP access technology applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0075] Figures 2-4 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture accessed via N3GPP access technology, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0076] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0077] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of a communication method applied to an N3GPP network architecture, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0078] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of a communication method applicable to another N3GPP network architecture provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0079] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a communication method applicable to yet another N3GPP network architecture, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0080] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0081] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram of another communication device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0082] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0083] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0084] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0085] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture accessed via 3GPP access technology, provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1 As shown, the network architecture 100 may include user equipment 110, (wireless) access network equipment 120, user plane network element 130, data network 140, authentication server 150, mobility management network element 160, session management network element 170, application network element 180, unified data management network element 190, policy control network element 191, network function repository function network element 192, network openness network element 193, and network slice selection function network element 194, etc. The following describes each network element involved in this network architecture.

[0086] 1. User equipment (UE) 110: User equipment can also be called terminal, access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent or user device. The terminals in the embodiments of this application may be mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminals, augmented reality (AR) terminals, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical care, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, cellular phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminals in 5G networks, or terminals in future evolved networks, etc.

[0087] Wearable devices, also known as wearable smart devices, are a general term for devices that utilize wearable technology to intelligently design and develop everyday wearables, such as glasses, gloves, watches, clothing, and shoes. Wearable devices are portable devices worn directly on the body or integrated into the user's clothing or accessories. Wearable devices are not merely hardware devices; they achieve powerful functions through software support, data interaction, and cloud interaction. Broadly defined, wearable smart devices include those with comprehensive functions, large sizes, and the ability to perform complete or partial functions without relying on a smartphone, such as smartwatches or smart glasses. They also include devices focused on a specific application function that require the use of other devices, such as smart bracelets and smart jewelry for vital sign monitoring.

[0088] 2. (Radio) Access Network ((R)AN) 120: Access network equipment can also be called access device. (R)AN can manage radio resources, provide access services for user equipment, and complete the forwarding of user equipment data between user equipment and core network. (R)AN can also be understood as a base station in the network.

[0089] For example, the access network device in this application embodiment can be any communication device with wireless transceiver function for communicating with user equipment. The access network equipment includes, but is not limited to: evolved node B (eNB), radio network controller (RNC), node B (NB), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), home evolved node B (HeNB, or home node B (HNB), baseband unit (BBU), access point (AP), wireless relay node, wireless backhaul node, transmission point (TP), or transmission and reception point (TRP) in a wireless fidelity (WIFI) system. It can also be a gNB in ​​a 5G system, or a transmission point (TRP or TP), one or a group of antenna panels (including multiple antenna panels) of a base station in a 5G system, or a network node constituting a gNB or transmission point, such as a baseband unit (BBU) or a distributed unit (DU).

[0090] In some deployments, a gNB may include a centralized unit (CU) and a dedicated unit (DU). The gNB may also include an active antenna unit (AAU). The CU implements some of the gNB's functions, and the DU implements others. For example, the CU handles non-real-time protocols and services, implementing radio resource control (RRC) and packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer functions. The DU handles physical layer protocols and real-time services, implementing radio link control (RLC), media access control (MAC), and physical (PHY) layer functions. The AAU implements some physical layer processing functions, radio frequency processing, and active antenna-related functions. RRC layer information is generated by the CU and is ultimately encapsulated by the DU's PHY layer to become PHY layer information, or it may be derived from PHY layer information. Therefore, in this architecture, higher-layer signaling, such as RRC layer signaling, can be considered as being sent by the DU, or by the DU+AAU. It is understood that access network equipment can be one or more of the following: CU nodes, DU nodes, and AAU nodes. Furthermore, a CU can be classified as an access network device in the radio access network (RAN) or as an access network device in the core network (CN); this application does not impose any limitations on this classification.

[0091] 3. User plane network element 130: As the interface with the data network, it performs functions such as user plane data forwarding, session / flow-level billing statistics, and bandwidth limiting. This includes packet routing and forwarding, as well as quality of service (QoS) processing for user plane data.

[0092] In a 5G communication system, this user plane network element can be a user plane function (UPF) network element.

[0093] 4. Data Network 140: Provides services such as carrier services, internet access, or third-party services, including servers. The server side implements video source encoding, rendering, etc. In a 5G communication system, this data network can be a data network (DN).

[0094] 5. Authentication Server 150: Performs user security authentication. In a 5G communication system, this authentication server can be an authentication server function (AUSF) network element.

[0095] 6. Mobility Management Network Element 160: Primarily used for mobility management and access management. In 5G communication systems, this access management network element can be an access and mobility management function (AMF), mainly performing mobility management, access authentication / authorization, and other functions. Additionally, it is responsible for transmitting user policies between the terminal and the policy control function (PCF) network element.

[0096] 7. Session Management Element 170: Primarily used for session management, allocation and management of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses for user equipment, selection of endpoints for manageable user plane functions, policy control and charging function interfaces, and downlink data notification, etc.

[0097] In 5G communication systems, this session management network element can be a session management function (SMF) network element, which completes terminal IP address allocation, UPF selection, and billing and QoS policy control, etc.

[0098] 8. Application Network Element 180: In a 5G communication system, this application network element can be an application function (AF) network element, which represents the application function of a third party or operator. It is the interface for the 5G network to obtain external application data and is mainly used to convey the application side's requirements to the network side.

[0099] 9. Unified Data Management Network Element 190: Responsible for the management of user identifiers, subscription data, authentication data, and user service network element registration management. In 5G communication systems, this unified data management network element can be a unified data management (UDM). The UDM can use the Nudr interface to access specific datasets stored in the unified data repository (UDR).

[0100] 10. Policy control network element 191: Includes user subscription data management functions, policy control functions, billing policy control functions, quality of service (QoS) control, etc., which are used to guide network behavior and provide policy rule information to control plane function network elements (such as AMF, SMF, etc.).

[0101] In 5G communication systems, the policy control network element can be a PCF.

[0102] 11. Network slice selection function network element 194: Responsible for selecting network slices for UE. In 5G communication systems, this application network element can be a network slice selection function (NSSF) network element.

[0103] 12. Network Function Repository Function Network Element 192: Provides storage and selection functions for network function entity information for other core network elements. In 5G communication systems, this network element can be a network function repository function (NRF).

[0104] 13. Network Open Element 193: In a 5G communication system, this network open element can be a network element function (NEF) element, which is mainly used to expose the services and capabilities of 3GPP network functions to the AF, and at the same time allows the AF to provide information to 3GPP network functions.

[0105] In future communication systems, such as 6G communication systems, the aforementioned network elements or devices may still use their names from the 5G communication system, or they may have other names; this application embodiment does not limit this. The function of the aforementioned network element or device can be performed by a single network element or by several network elements working together. In actual deployment, network elements in the core network can be deployed on the same or different physical devices. For example, as a possible deployment, the AMF and SMF can be deployed on the same physical device. As another example, 5G core network elements can be deployed on the same physical device as 4G core network elements. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0106] Understandable. Figure 1 This is merely an example and does not constitute any limitation on the scope of protection of this application. The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application may also involve... Figure 1 The network elements not shown in the diagram may also include, of course, the communication method provided in this application embodiment. Figure 1 Some of the network elements are shown.

[0107] exist Figure 1 In the network architecture shown, the terminal connects to the AMF via the N1 interface, the (R)AN connects to the AMF via the N2 interface, and the (R)AN connects to the UPF via the N3 interface. UPFs are connected to each other via the N9 interface, and the UPFs are interconnected with the DN via the N6 interface. The SMF controls the UPF via the N4 interface.

[0108] It is understood that the network architecture described above for the embodiments of this application is merely an example, and the network architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any network architecture capable of realizing the functions of the above-described network elements is applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0109] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture accessed via N3GPP access technology, provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0110] When the 5G core network supports N3GPP access technology, its network architecture is as follows: Figure 2 As shown. From Figure 1 As we can see, terminal devices access the core network via 3GPP access technology. Specifically, the terminal device accesses the core network's control plane element AMF via (R)AN, and (R)AN communicates with the AMF via the N2 interface. The terminal device also accesses the core network's user plane element UPF via (R)AN, and (R)AN communicates with the UPF via the N3 interface. However, when the terminal device accesses the core network via N3GPP access technology, from... Figure 2As we can see, terminal devices access the core network's control plane network element AMF through the N3IWF network element. The N3IWF and AMF communicate via the N2 interface. Terminal devices also access the core network's user plane network element UPF through the N3IWF network element. The N3IWF and UPF communicate via the N3 interface. The N3IWF network element is the access gateway for N3GPP access technology. The N3GPP access network can be either untrusted or trusted. When the N3GPP access network is untrusted, the N3IWF network element is untrusted; when the N3GPP access network is trusted, the N3IWF network element is trusted. The N3GPP access network can be a WLAN access network, which includes both trusted and untrusted WLAN access gateways. The terminal device and the N3IWF network element also include access network equipment: access point (AP) / access controller (AC), such as a wireless local area network access point (WLANAP). The terminal device communicates with the AP / AC through the Y1 interface, and the AP / AC communicates with the N3IWF network element through the Y2 interface. Figure 2 The functions and communication interfaces of UDM, PCF, SMF, UPF, and DN shown are the same as those in the diagram. Figure 1 As mentioned above, I will not repeat it here.

[0111] Figure 2 The network architecture 201 shown allows terminal devices to directly establish connections with the 5GC. Specifically, terminal devices can communicate with the AMF via the N1 interface, and the terminal devices communicate with the AMF via NAS messages.

[0112] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another network architecture accessed via N3GPP access technology provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0113] It should be understood that Figure 3 The network architecture 202 shown is Figure 2 The difference between network architecture 201 and network architecture 202 is that the terminal devices in network architecture 202 cannot directly establish a connection with the 5GC. That is, the terminal devices cannot communicate with the AMF through the N1 interface. The terminal devices require the N3IWF network element to proxy and support the N1 interface. In other words, the terminal devices do not support NAS messages, and data transmitted between the terminal devices and the AMF needs to be forwarded through the AP / AC and / or the N3IWF network element. The functions and communication interfaces of UDM, PCF, SMF, UPF, and DN in network architecture 202 are the same as... Figure 1 As mentioned above, I will not repeat it here.

[0114] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of another network architecture accessed via N3GPP access technology provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0115] Figure 4 The network architecture 203 shown corresponds to a scenario where terminal devices access the UDM in 5GC through an authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) server and an AAA proxy. Network architecture 203 includes terminal devices, AP / AC, authentication and AAA server, AAA proxy, UDM, and PCF. The terminal devices, AP / AC, UDM, and PCF are as described above and will not be repeated here. The AAA server is a server program capable of handling user access requests, providing authentication, authorization, and account services. Its main purpose is to manage user access to the network server and provide services to users with access rights. The AAA server typically works in conjunction with network access control, gateway servers, databases, and user information directories. The network connection server interface that collaborates with the AAA server is the remote authentication dial-in user service (RADIUS). The AAA proxy is a proxy device that acts as an intermediary between the terminal devices and the AAA server.

[0116] Of course, the 5G core network also supports fixed network access, and the specific network architecture is different. Figure 2 and 3 The N3GPP access network architecture shown is similar, except that the N3IWF network elements in the above architecture are replaced with fixed network access gateways. Between the terminal equipment and the fixed network access gateway, there are also fixed access network (FAN) devices, such as switches and routers.

[0117] It should be understood that Figure 2 3 and 4 are merely examples. For instance, in a 6G communication system, the aforementioned network elements or devices can still use their names from the 5G communication system, or they can have other names. This application embodiment does not limit this. The function of the aforementioned network elements or devices can be performed by a single network element or by several network elements working together. The communication method provided in this application embodiment can also involve... Figure 2 The network elements not shown in the diagram may also include, of course, the communication method provided in this application embodiment. Figure 2 Some of the network elements are shown.

[0118] In existing technologies, when a terminal device accesses the 5G core network (5G core, 5GC) via the N3GPP network, it needs to access the 5GC through the N3IWF network element. During this process, an Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) connection channel is established between the terminal device and the N3IWF network element. QoS control parameters of the 5GC are sent to the N3IWF network element through the N2 interface. The N3IWF gateway then performs QoS control on uplink and downlink service flows based on the received QoS parameters. During this process, the 5GC only sends the QoS parameters for N3GPP access technology to the N3IWF network element. That is, the QoS control of the 5GC for N3GPP access technology can only be applied to the N3IWF network element. The air interface on the N3GPP access side, such as the WLAN air interface, performs QoS control through other QoS parameters pre-stored in the AP / AC. The QoS parameters in the AP / AC and the QoS parameters sent by the 5GC to the N3IWF network element through the N2 interface may be inconsistent. This will cause a conflict between the QoS control policy of the 5GC and the QoS control policy of the air interface on the N3GPP access side, resulting in a poor user experience.

[0119] This application proposes a communication method that enables 5GC and N3GPP access devices to unify QoS control policies, thereby avoiding poor user experience caused by conflicts in QoS control policies.

[0120] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 The method 300 shown includes:

[0121] Step S310: The core network element configures the first parameter information, which is the QoS control parameter information of N3GPP access technology. The first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology.

[0122] Optionally, the core network element is a UDM or a UDR. The N3GPP access technologies include WLAN access technology, short-range satellite access technology, Bluetooth access technology, and radio frequency identification (RFID) access technology.

[0123] It should be understood that the first parameter information can be used for QoS control of service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device when accessing the core network via N3GPP access technology, and can also be used for QoS control of service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device when accessing other networks via N3GPP access technology, for example, for QoS control of service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device when routing to the Internet via N3GPP access technology. This application does not impose any limitations in this regard.

[0124] Optionally, the first parameter information includes at least one of the following: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the following: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between the 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0125] It should be understood that the QoS identifier of an N3GPP connection can define the QoS category. Nodes in the network can determine the QoS category through the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, thereby determining the QoS parameters.

[0126] For example, the QoS identifier for this N3GPP connection can be an enhanced distributed channel access (EDCA) value, a WLAN-side user priority (UP) value, a differentiated services code point (DSCP) value, a peer-to-peer protocol (PCP) value, and different EDCA values, WLAN UP values, DSCP values, or PCP values ​​correspond to different QoS categories. Of course, the above QoS parameters are only examples; the QoS identifier for the N3GPP connection in this application can also correspond to other QoS parameters, and no restrictions are imposed here. The EDCA parameters and their meanings are shown in Table 1.

[0127] Table 1

[0128]

[0129] It should be understood that Table 1 shows only a portion of the EDCA parameters, not all of them. EDCA parameters may also include other parameters not listed in Table 1, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0130] It should also be understood that when the channel access parameters of the aforementioned N3GPP access technology include both the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters, it means that the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0131] For example, the channel QoS parameters mentioned above include one or more of the following: such as latency, packet loss rate, guaranteed bandwidth, maximum bandwidth, peak rate, and jitter.

[0132] In step S320, the core network element sends the first parameter information to the N3GPP access gateway. Correspondingly, the N3GPP access gateway receives the first parameter information.

[0133] The aforementioned N3GPP access gateway can be an N3IWF. If the N3GPP network is a campus network WLAN, then the N3GPP access gateway can be a campus gateway.

[0134] Optionally, before step S320, the method 300 further includes: step S312, whereby the N3GPP access gateway sends first indication information to the core network element, the first indication information indicating that the first terminal device accesses the core network element through N3GPP access technology. Correspondingly, the core network element receives the first indication information.

[0135] It should be understood that when the core network element is UDM, other core network elements (such as AMF) can forward the first indication information between the N3GPP access gateway and UDM.

[0136] After receiving the first indication information, the core network element can determine the first parameter information based on the first indication information and send the first parameter information to the N3GPP access gateway.

[0137] Optionally, the first indication information includes any one or more of the following: indication information for N3GPP access technology, location area identifier, or network identifier.

[0138] In one possible implementation, the first indication information is a field that can identify whether the first terminal device accesses the network through N3GPP access technology. The core network element can determine that the first terminal device accesses the network through N3GPP access technology through this field.

[0139] In another possible implementation, the first indication information is a location area identifier, which the core network element can use to determine that the first terminal device accesses the network through N3GPP access technology.

[0140] In another possible implementation, the first indication information is a network identifier, which the core network element can use to determine that the first terminal device accesses the network through N3GPP access technology.

[0141] Optionally, method 300H further includes: step S311, configuring the correspondence between multiple location area identifiers and QoS control parameter information of multiple sets of N3GPP access technologies, and / or the correspondence between multiple network identifiers and QoS control parameter information of multiple sets.

[0142] When a core network element locally stores the correspondence between multiple location area identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information for N3GPP access technologies, and / or the correspondence between multiple network identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information, after receiving the first indication information, the core network element can determine the QoS control parameter information of the N3GPP access technology corresponding to the first identifier through the above correspondence, and send it to the N3GPP access gateway.

[0143] For example, when a core network element configures a set of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the core network element can determine the first parameter information through the first indication information. When a core network element configures multiple sets of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the core network element needs to obtain mapping relationship information. This mapping relationship information is used to indicate the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. Based on the mapping relationship information, the core network element determines the set of QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information. The first identifier is the relevant identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0144] Optionally, the first identifier includes at least one of a location area identifier and a network identifier.

[0145] It should be understood that when the first identifier is a location area identifier, the location area identifier is the identifier of the location area of ​​the N3GPP network accessed by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology. When the first identifier is a network identifier, the network identifier is the network identifier of the N3GPP network accessed by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology. For example, the N3GPP network is a WLAN network, the location area identifier represents a WLAN network in a specific location area, and the network identifier represents a specific WLAN network (e.g., a campus network).

[0146] In step S321, the N3GPP access gateway sends the first parameter information to the N3GPP access device. Correspondingly, the N3GPP access device receives the first parameter information.

[0147] In step S322, the N3GPP access device sends the first parameter information to the first terminal device. Correspondingly, the first terminal device receives the first parameter information.

[0148] It should be understood that the steps S320, S321, and S322 above regarding the transmission of the first parameter information are merely examples, and this application does not impose any restrictions on them. The first parameter information received by the first terminal device may come directly from the core network element (AMF), or it may be forwarded sequentially by the N3GPP access gateway and N3GPP access devices.

[0149] Optionally, method 300 further includes: step S323, whereby the N3GPP access gateway determines a first terminal identifier, wherein the first terminal identifier is the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network.

[0150] In other words, when the first terminal device accesses the network through the N3GPP network, the N3GPP access gateway can configure the first terminal device's identifier in the N3GPP access network, namely the first terminal identifier.

[0151] Optionally, method 300 further includes: step S324, whereby the N3GPP access gateway sends the first terminal identifier to the N3GPP access device and the first terminal device. Correspondingly, the N3GPP access device and the first terminal device receive the first terminal identifier.

[0152] Optionally, method 300 further includes: step S325, whereby the N3GPP access gateway determines the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection.

[0153] For example, the N3GPP access gateway can obtain the correspondence between service flow description information and 5QI. For instance, the SMF sends the correspondence between service flow description information and 5QI to the N3GPP access gateway through the AMF. In step S320, the N3GPP access gateway can obtain the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. Then, the N3GPP access gateway can determine the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection based on the correspondence between service flow description information and 5QI, as well as the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology.

[0154] Optionally, the above-mentioned service flow description information includes at least one of the following: standard delay format (SDF), or IP 5-tuple (at least one of source and destination IP, port number, and protocol), source and destination MAC address, and QoS flow ID (QFI).

[0155] Optionally, method 300 further includes: step S326, whereby the N3GPP access gateway sends the mapping information between service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection to the N3GPP access device. Correspondingly, the N3GPP access device receives the mapping information between service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection.

[0156] Optionally, method 300 further includes: step S327, whereby the N3GPP access device sends the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection to the first terminal device. Correspondingly, the first terminal device receives the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection.

[0157] In step S330, the N3GPP access device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information.

[0158] Optionally, the N3GPP access network equipment determines the channel QoS parameters of the service flow data packet based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The service flow data packet can be determined based on the first terminal identifier.

[0159] N3GPP access network equipment performs QoS control on the service flow data packets based on the determined channel QoS parameters.

[0160] For example, for a service flow uplink data packet, after the service flow uplink data packet is sent to the N3GPP access network device, the N3GPP access network device identifies the first terminal device based on the first terminal identifier of the service flow uplink data packet, determines the occupancy of the N3GPP network air interface channel of the terminal device based on the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, performs uplink bandwidth control on all service flow uplink data packets of the terminal device based on the bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and performs priority scheduling of uplink data packets based on the priority of the terminal device, that is, realizes QoS control of uplink service flow data packets.

[0161] For downlink data packets of a service flow, after receiving the downlink data packet, the N3GPP access network device identifies the first terminal device based on the first terminal identifier of the downlink data packet, and determines the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology corresponding to the downlink data packet according to the user priority carried by the MAC layer of the data packet. Based on the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, the N3GPP access network device determines the usage of the downlink data packet in the N3GPP network air interface channel, thereby realizing QoS control for the downlink data packet of the service flow.

[0162] In step S340, the first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information.

[0163] Optionally, when the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters, the first terminal device determines the channel QoS parameters according to the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through the N3GPP access technology according to the channel QoS parameters.

[0164] Optionally, the first terminal device determines the QFI corresponding to the service flow data packet based on the service flow description information, and determines the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection corresponding to the service flow data packet based on the correspondence between the QFI, the QoS identifier (QFI) of the N3GPP connection, and the service flow description information.

[0165] For example, the first terminal device determines the 5QI corresponding to the uplink data packet of the service flow (e.g., the UE determines the QFI corresponding to the uplink data packet based on the QoS rule, and determines the 5QI of the uplink data packet of the service flow from the correspondence between QFI and 5QI). Then, based on the correspondence between QFI and service flow description information, it determines the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection corresponding to the uplink data packet. It then determines the channel QoS parameters according to the correspondence between the N3GPP connection QoS identifier and channel QoS parameters, and controls the use of the N3GPP network air interface channel by the uplink data packet of the service flow according to the channel QoS parameters. Furthermore, the priority value of the terminal device corresponding to the uplink data packet of the service flow can be carried when encapsulating the MAC packet header.

[0166] The preceding text introduced the steps for achieving unified QoS control policies between 5GC and N3GPP access devices, avoiding poor user experience caused by QoS control policy conflicts. The following text describes specific examples of applying the communication method 300 from the above embodiments to different network architectures where terminal devices access the network via N3GPP access technology. The N3GPP access network described below uses a WLAN network as an example, and the network accessed by the terminal device via N3GPP access technology is a core network as an example.

[0167] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a communication method applied to an N3GPP network architecture, as provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0168] Figure 6 The communication method 400 shown is applicable to Figure 2The network architecture 201 shown allows the UE to directly establish a connection with the 5GC, meaning the UE can communicate with the AMF via the N1 interface, or via NAS messages. Method 400 includes:

[0169] In step S410, the UE initiates an Internet Protocol Security (IPSec) connection establishment procedure with the N3GPP access gateway N3IWF. For example, the UE obtains its local IP address from the WLAN network and uses this local IP address to establish an IPSec connection with the N3IWF.

[0170] In step S411, the UE initiates a network connection request to the AMF via the WLAN network. For example, the UE sends a NAS message to the AMF, which can be a registration request message, a service request message, etc. Correspondingly, after receiving the NAS message, the AMF obtains the UE's access location information from the N3IWF, or it can also obtain network identification information, which can be a non-public network (NPN) identifier or a campus network identifier.

[0171] In step S412, the AMF sends a request message to the UDM, and the UDM receives the request message. The request message includes first indication information. The first indication information includes at least one of N3GPP access technology indication, location area identifier, or network identifier. The N3GPP access technology indication instructs the UE to access the AMF via a WLAN network.

[0172] Optionally, method 400 includes: step S420, whereby the UDM determines first parameter information. For example, the UDM determines the relevant N3GPP access technology QoS control parameter information, namely the first parameter information, based on at least one of the N3GPP access technology indication, location area identifier, or network identifier information. The first parameter information includes at least one of WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-granular bandwidth, and UE priority.

[0173] Before step S420, method 400 further includes:

[0174] In step S410', the UDR or UDM configures first parameter information, such as at least one of WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, and UE priority. The WLAN connection QoS parameters include at least one of the following:

[0175] 1) WLAN air interface QoS parameters, also known as WLAN channel access parameters, are used to determine the access parameters of the WLAN air interface channel, that is, to determine how the UE preempts resources on the WLAN air interface channel in order to achieve WLAN air interface QoS control. WLAN channel access parameters include at least one of the WLAN connection QoS identifier and channel QoS parameters.

[0176] 2) The correspondence between 5G Quality of Service identifier (5QI) and WLAN channel access parameters.

[0177] QoS identifiers for WLAN connections may include EDCA values, WLAN UP values, DSCP values, or PCP values. Channel QoS parameters include one or more of the following: latency, packet loss rate, guaranteed bandwidth, maximum bandwidth, peak rate, and jitter.

[0178] For example, different EDCA values, WLAN UP values, DSCP values, or PCP values ​​represent different QoS categories. These QoS categories can be WLAN service queues, which are divided according to service type. For instance, WLAN access devices determine WLAN channel access parameters based on service type, typically classifying user services into four categories with priority from high to low: voice services, video services, best effort services, and background services. These four categories are also called WLAN service queues. Data packets for each service type belong to the same service queue. Each service queue defines a set of enhanced EDCA parameters. The EDCA parameters of a service queue determine its channel occupancy capacity; that is, higher-priority service queues have a greater chance of occupying the channel than lower-priority service queues. The correspondence between 5QI and WLAN channel access parameters, and / or the correspondence between 5QI and WLAN service queues, is used to coordinate the correspondence between the QoS parameters of the WLAN air interface and the QoS parameters of 5GC, achieving unified QoS control from the core network end to the access network end.

[0179] It should be understood that the bandwidth configured at the UE granularity in the UDR or UDM is the sum of the bandwidths of all services for that UE, including guaranteed bandwidth and / or maximum bandwidth values. The UE priority configured in the UDR or UDM represents the UE's level, for example, user levels such as gold, silver, bronze, etc.

[0180] Optionally, the UDR or UDM may also configure the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information (such as WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority) and multiple location areas or multiple network identifiers. This correspondence is used to indicate that the QoS control parameter information is applicable to a specific location area's WLAN or a specific network (such as a campus network).

[0181] For example, when a UDR or UDM is configured with a set of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the UDR or UDM can determine the first parameter information through the first indication information. When a UDR or UDM is configured with multiple sets of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the UDR or UDM needs to obtain mapping relationship information, which indicates the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. Based on the mapping relationship information, the UDR or UDM determines the set of QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information. The first identifier is the relevant identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0182] Optionally, the first identifier includes at least one of the WLAN location area identifier and the network identifier.

[0183] It should be understood that when the aforementioned QoS control parameter information (e.g., WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority) is configured in the UDM, after receiving the request message in step S412, the UDM searches for the relevant WLAN connection parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority locally based on the information included in the request message. When the aforementioned QoS control parameter information is configured in the UDR, after receiving the request message in step S412, the UDM needs to obtain the WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority related to the information included in the request message from the UDR. Alternatively, the relevant WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority can be obtained before the UDM receives the request message in step S412; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0184] In step S430, the UDM sends first parameter information to the AMF, and the AMF receives the first parameter information. For example, the message sent by the UDM to the AMF to obtain subscription data includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, or UE priority; the AMF receives the message to obtain subscription data.

[0185] In step S431, the AMF sends first parameter information to the N3IWF, and the N3IWF receives the first parameter information. The first parameter information includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, or UE priority.

[0186] For example, the AMF sends an N2 interface message to the N3IWF, and the N3IWF receives the N2 interface message. This N2 interface message includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE bandwidth, and UE priority. Alternatively, the NAS message (corresponding to the NAS message in step S411) that the AMF replies to the UE can also be sent to the N3IWF via the aforementioned N2 message or other N2 messages. The NAS message replied to the UE can be a registration success message or a service request success message, etc., and includes WLAN connection QoS parameters and / or UE-level bandwidth.

[0187] In step S432, N3IWF sends the first parameter information to AP / AC, and correspondingly, AP / AC receives the QoS control parameter information.

[0188] Optionally, the N3IWF also sends a first terminal identifier (UE local IP) to the AP / AC and / or terminal equipment, and the AP / AC receives the UE local IP.

[0189] For example, the N3IWF determines the first terminal identifier, i.e., the UE local IP, and sends the UE local IP and at least one of the following WLAN connection QoS parameters corresponding to the UE, UE bandwidth, or UE priority to the WLAN AP / AC and / or terminal device.

[0190] In step S433, the N3IWF forwards the first parameter information from step S431 to the UE, and the UE receives the first parameter information. For example, the N3IWF forwards the NAS message from step S431 to the UE. The NAS message includes WLAN connection QoS parameters and / or UE-level bandwidth. After receiving the NAS message, the UE stores the WLAN connection QoS parameters and / or UE-level bandwidth.

[0191] It should be understood that this application does not restrict the order of steps S432 and S433. Step S432 may come first, or step S433 may come first.

[0192] In step S440, the UE initiates a PDU session establishment request to the SMF. For example, the UE sends a PDU sessionestablishment request message to the SMF.

[0193] In step S441, after receiving the PDU session establishment request, the SMF sends a policy request message to the PCF, and the PCF receives the policy request message accordingly.

[0194] In step S450, after receiving the policy request information, the PCF sends the rules for the PDU session to the SMF, such as policy control and charging (PCC) rules related to the PDU session, including the QoS rules for 5GC. Correspondingly, the SMF receives the rules for the PDU session.

[0195] Optionally, the PCF also sends the correspondence between service flow description information and WLANUP (a type of QoS identifier for WLAN connections). This service flow description information includes at least one of SDF, IP 5-tuple, source and destination MAC addresses, and QFI. WLAN UP is a QoS control parameter in the MAC header encapsulated when the service flow data packet is transmitted over the WLAN air interface.

[0196] In step S451, the SMF sends the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier (VLAN priority) of the WLAN connection to the N3IWF based on the rules of the received PDU session. The N3IWF receives the corresponding correspondence information.

[0197] For example, the SMF, based on the PCC rules sent by the PCF, aggregates service flows with the same QoS requirements into a single QoS flow, identifying it using a QoS flow ID (QFI). The SMF then notifies the UPF to allocate user plane resources for the aforementioned PDU session. Furthermore, the SMF generates N2 information and a PDU session establishment success message. This N2 information is sent to the N3IWF via the AMF, and includes the mapping between QFI and VLAN priority. It should be understood that VLAN priority is generated based on WLAN UP; the VLAN priority can be equal to the WLAN UP value, or the two values ​​can be different but correspond one-to-one. For example, if a service flow corresponds to WLAN UP = 5, the SMF determines the VLAN priority to be 5 based on WLAN UP = 5. If the service flow belongs to a QFI of 1, the N2 message includes the mapping between QFI = 1 and VLAN priority = 5. The N3IWF processes service packets according to the VLAN priority. Additionally, the aforementioned NAS message (N2 message) also contains a QoS rule to determine the QFI corresponding to the service flow.

[0198] The PDU session establishment success message is forwarded to the N3IWF via the AMF. This PDU session establishment success message includes service flow description information or the correspondence between QFI and WLAN UP.

[0199] It should be understood that the PDU session establishment success message is ultimately sent to the UE. Therefore, this message includes the correspondence between QFI=1 and WLAN UP=5. Because this correspondence is used by the UE on the WLAN air interface, it represents the WLAN UP value, not the VLAN priority. The UE uses WLAN UP to process service data packets.

[0200] It should be understood that N3IWF can determine the correspondence between service flow description information and QoS identifiers of WLAN connections.

[0201] In one possible implementation, the N3IWF receives the mapping between service flow description information from the SMF and the QoS identifier of the WLAN connection.

[0202] In another possible implementation, the N3IWF can obtain the correspondence between the service flow description information and 5QI. For example, the SMF sends the correspondence between the service flow description information and 5QI to the N3IWF through the AMF, and obtains the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameters of the WLAN access technology (S431). Then, the N3IWF can determine the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the WLAN connection based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and 5QI, as well as the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameters of the WLAN access technology.

[0203] In step S452, the N3IWF sends the correspondence information between the service flow description information (QFI) and the QoS identifier (WLANUP) of the WLAN connection to the UE, and the UE receives the corresponding correspondence information.

[0204] For example, the UE receives a PDU session establishment success message from the SMF. This PDU session establishment success message includes QoS rules and service flow description information or QFI and WLAN UP correspondence information.

[0205] Step S460: Service flow data packet transmission process between UE and AP / AC.

[0206] The UE performs WLAN QoS control on the uplink / downlink data packets of the service flow based on the QoS control parameter information received in step S433 and / or the QFI-WLANUP correspondence received in step S452.

[0207] For example, the UE determines the 5QI corresponding to the uplink data packet of the service flow (e.g., the UE determines the QFI corresponding to the uplink data packet based on the QoS rule, and determines the 5QI of the uplink data packet of the service flow from the correspondence between QFI and 5QI), then determines the WLAN channel access parameters of the uplink data packet of the service flow based on the WLAN connection QoS parameters, and then controls the use of WLAN air interface resources by the uplink data packet of the service flow based on the WLAN channel access parameters. Furthermore, the WLAN UP value corresponding to the uplink data packet of the service flow can be carried when encapsulating the WLAN-side MAC packet header.

[0208] Step S461, the process of transmitting service flow data packets between AP / AC and N3IWF.

[0209] For example, the WLAN AP / AC transmits data packets based on the first parameter information received in step S432. For instance, for service flow uplink data packets, after the service flow uplink data packets are sent to the WLAN AP / AC through the WLAN air interface, the WLAN AP / AC identifies the UE based on the source IP address (UE local IP) of the service flow uplink data packets, determines the occupancy status of the UE's service flow uplink data packets on the WLAN air interface channel based on the WLAN channel access parameters, performs uplink bandwidth control on all service flow uplink data packets of the UE based on the UE granular bandwidth, and performs priority scheduling of uplink data packets based on the UE priority or the WLAN UP value carried in the MAC header of the uplink data packets, thus realizing QoS control of uplink data packets on the WLAN side.

[0210] For downlink data packets in a service flow, after receiving the downlink data packet, the WLAN AP / AC identifies the UE based on the destination IP address (UE local IP) of the data packet, and sets the WLAN UP value according to the VLAN priority carried in the MAC layer of the downlink data packet, and / or the UE priority received from step S432. The WLAN AP / AC determines the WLAN service queue to which the downlink data packet belongs based on the VLAN priority or WLAN UP. Each WLAN service queue corresponds to different WLAN channel access parameters. In other words, the WLAN AP / AC determines the usage of the downlink data packet on the WLAN air interface channel based on the WLAN channel access parameters, thereby realizing QoS control of downlink data packets on the WLAN side.

[0211] Step S462: The process of transmitting service flow data packets between N3IWF and the core network element UPF.

[0212] For example, N3IWF performs QoS control on data packets based on the correspondence between the first parameter information received from step S431 and / or the service flow description information received from step S451 and the VLAN priority.

[0213] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating a communication method applicable to another N3GPP network architecture, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0214] Figure 7 The communication method 500 shown is applicable to Figure 3 The network architecture 202 shown indicates that terminal devices cannot directly establish connections with the 5GC, meaning they cannot communicate with the AMF via the N1 interface. The N3IWF network element proxy needs to support the N1 interface, implying that the terminal devices do not support NAS messages. Method 500 includes:

[0215] In step S510, the UE initiates an authentication process with the N3IWF. For example, the UE sends an authentication request message (EAP authentication request message) to the N3IWF.

[0216] In step S511, N3IWF sends an authentication request message to AMF, and AMF receives the authentication request message, which includes authentication parameters.

[0217] For example, the N3IWF agent generates a NAS message for the UE. The NAS message can be a registration request message, and it carries the authentication parameters sent by the UE. For example, the NAS message carries an EAP authentication request message.

[0218] In step S512, the AMF sends authentication information to the UDM, and the UDM receives the authentication information.

[0219] Optionally, the AMF also sends the UE's location information and / or WLAN network identification information to the UDM.

[0220] It should be understood that one or more of the authentication information, location information, and WLAN network identification information are the first indication information mentioned above.

[0221] Optionally, method 500 includes: step S520, whereby the UDM determines first parameter information. For example, the UDM determines at least one of the following based on the first indication information: relevant WLAN connection parameters, UE-level bandwidth, and UE priority, which constitutes the first parameter information. The first indication information includes at least one of the following: access technology indication (indicating that the UE accesses the AMF through the WLAN network), location area identifier (the location information of the UE), or network identifier information.

[0222] Before step S520, method 500 further includes:

[0223] In step S510', the UDR or UDM configures first parameter information, such as at least one of WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, and UE priority. The WLAN connection QoS parameters include at least one of the following:

[0224] 1) WLAN air interface QoS parameters, also known as WLAN channel access parameters, are used to determine the access parameters of the WLAN air interface channel, that is, to determine how the UE preempts resources on the WLAN air interface channel in order to achieve WLAN air interface QoS control. WLAN channel access parameters include at least one of the WLAN connection QoS identifier and channel QoS parameters.

[0225] 2) The correspondence between 5G Quality of Service identifier (5QI) and WLAN channel access parameters.

[0226] QoS identifiers for WLAN connections may include EDCA values, WLAN UP values, DSCP values, or PCP values. Channel QoS parameters include one or more of the following: latency, packet loss rate, guaranteed bandwidth, maximum bandwidth, peak rate, and jitter.

[0227] Step S510' is the same as step S410' in method 400, and the specific content of the relevant parameters is the same as the description of step S410', so it will not be repeated here.

[0228] Optionally, the UDR or UDM may also configure the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information (such as WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority) and multiple location areas or multiple network identifiers. This correspondence is used to indicate that the QoS control parameter information is applicable to a specific location area's WLAN or a specific network (such as a campus network).

[0229] For example, when a UDR or UDM is configured with a set of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the UDR or UDM can determine the first parameter information through the first indication information. When a UDR or UDM is configured with multiple sets of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the UDR or UDM needs to obtain mapping relationship information, which indicates the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. Based on the mapping relationship information, the UDR or UDM determines the set of QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information. The first identifier is the relevant identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0230] Optionally, the first identifier includes at least one of the WLAN location area identifier and the network identifier.

[0231] It should be understood that when the aforementioned QoS control parameter information (e.g., WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority) is configured in the UDM, after receiving the request message in step S512, the UDM searches locally for the relevant WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority based on the information included in the request message. When the aforementioned QoS control parameter information is configured in the UDR, after receiving the request message in step S512, the UDM needs to obtain the WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority related to the information included in the request message from the UDR. Alternatively, the relevant WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority can be obtained before the UDM receives the request message in step S512; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0232] In step S530, the UDM sends first parameter information to the AMF, and the AMF receives the first parameter information. For example, the message sent by the UDM to the AMF to obtain subscription data includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection parameters, UE-level bandwidth, or UE priority; the AMF receives the message to obtain subscription data.

[0233] Optionally, the UDM encapsulates the WLAN connection QoS parameters and / or UE-level bandwidth in an EAP message and sends it to the AMF. Alternatively, the UDM or UDR sends at least one of the following to the AUSF: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, or UE priority. The AUSF then encapsulates this information in an EAP message and sends it to the AMF.

[0234] In step S531, the AMF sends first parameter information to the N3IWF, and the N3IWF receives the first parameter information. The first parameter information includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, or UE priority.

[0235] For example, the AMF sends an N2 interface message to the N3IWF, and the N3IWF receives the N2 interface message. This N2 interface message includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, and UE priority. Additionally, the AMF sends an EAP message to the N3IWF, which includes WLAN connection QoS parameters and UE-level bandwidth.

[0236] In step S532, N3IWF sends the first parameter information to the UE, and the UE receives the first parameter information accordingly.

[0237] Specifically, the N3IWF stores at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, or UE priority, and forwards an EAP message to the UE, the EAP message including the WLAN connection QoS parameter UE-level bandwidth.

[0238] In step S540, the UE sends a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) request message to the WLAN AP / AC, and the WLAN AP / AC receives the DHCP request message.

[0239] In step S541, the WLAN AP / AC sends a DHCP request message to the N3IWF, or the WLAN AP / AC may send other messages to the N3IWF to make a DHCP request; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0240] Step S542, N3IWF initiates the PDU session establishment request process.

[0241] For example, the N3IWF initiates a PDU session establishment request process based on the DHCP request message, that is, the N3IWF sends a PDU session establishment request message to the AMF, and the AMF forwards it to the SMF.

[0242] In step S543, after receiving the PDU session establishment request, the SMF sends a policy request message to the PCF, and the PCF receives the policy request message accordingly.

[0243] In step S550, after receiving the policy request information, the PCF sends the rules for the PDU session to the SMF, such as policy control and charging (PCC) rules related to the PDU session, including the QoS rules for 5GC. Correspondingly, the SMF receives the rules for the PDU session.

[0244] Optionally, the PCF also sends the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier (WLAN UP) of the WLAN connection. This service flow description information is the same as that described in step S450, and will not be repeated here.

[0245] Optionally, the rules for the PDU session may also include reflective indication information for mapping WLAN UP, which indicates that the uplink WLAN UP value is determined based on the downlink WLAN UP.

[0246] For example, the indication information for mapping WLAN UP can be at the PDU session granularity or the service flow granularity. When the indication information for mapping WLAN UP is at the PDU session granularity, this indication information corresponds to the PDU session identifier, indicating that all service flows in this PDU session support determining uplink WLAN UP based on the downlink WLAN UP value. When the indication information for mapping WLAN UP is at the service flow granularity, this indication information corresponds to the service flow description information, used to indicate that the relevant service flow supports the operation of determining uplink WLAN UP based on the downlink WLAN UP value.

[0247] Optionally, the method 500 includes

[0248] In step S551, the SMF sends service flow description information, WLAN UP, and mapping WLAN UP indication information to the UE. Correspondingly, the UE receives the service flow description information, WLAN UP, and mapping WLAN UP indication information.

[0249] For example, when the SMF determines that it cannot transmit the NAS message to the UE through the N3GPP access side (i.e., WLAN AP / AC), the SMF encapsulates the service flow description information, WLAN UP, and reflective indication in the NAS message, and then sends the NAS message to the AMF. At the same time, the SMF sends a 3GPP access technology indication to the AMF, which is used to instruct the AMF to send the NAS message to the UE through the 3GPP access side (e.g., RAN).

[0250] Optionally, the SMF may learn, based on local configuration or an indication from the AMF, that it cannot transmit NAS messages to the UE through the N3GPP side, or determine that the UE is a UE without 5GC capability, or that the UE is a UE without 5GC capability on the N3GPP access side. In this case, the SMF transmits the above information through NAS messages in the 3GPP access technology. This application does not impose any restrictions on how the SMF determines that it cannot transmit NAS messages to the UE through the N3GPP access side.

[0251] In step S552, the SMF sends the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier (VLAN priority) of the WLAN connection to the N3IWF based on the rules of the received PDU session. The N3IWF receives the corresponding correspondence.

[0252] For example, the SMF sends an N2 information message to the N3IWF indicating a successful PDU session establishment. This N2 information is sent to the N3IWF via the AMF and includes the mapping between QFI and VLAN priorities, as well as QoS parameters related to the PDU session. Examples include session-level bandwidth for non-guaranteed bit rates (nonGBR) in the PDU and guaranteed bandwidth values ​​for GBR. The SMF determines VLAN priorities based on WLAN UP as described in step S451, and will not be repeated here.

[0253] The PDU session establishment success message mentioned above is a response to step S542. This PDU session establishment success message includes service flow description information or the correspondence between QFI and WLAN UP.

[0254] It should be understood that steps S551 and S552 are sent to different access network devices. The NAS message in step S551 is sent to the UE through the 3GPP-side access network device (RAN), while step S552 is sent to the N3GPP access gateway (N3IWF). There is no order restriction between the two. Furthermore, if the UE does not support NAS message transmission in the 3GPP access technology, step S551 can be omitted.

[0255] It should be understood that the N3IWF can determine the correspondence between service flow description information and QoS identifiers of WLAN connections. In addition to receiving the correspondence between service flow description information and QoS identifiers of WLAN connections from the SMF, the N3IWF can also obtain the correspondence between service flow description information and 5QI. For example, the SMF sends the correspondence between service flow description information and 5QI to the N3IWF through the AMF, and obtains the correspondence between 5QI and channel access parameters of WLAN access technology (S431). Then, the N3IWF can determine the correspondence between service flow description information and QoS identifiers of WLAN connections based on the correspondence between service flow description information and 5QI, as well as the correspondence between 5QI and channel access parameters of WLAN access technology.

[0256] After determining the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the WLAN connection, the N3IWF sends the correspondence to the AP / AC and forwards it to the UE through the AP / AC.

[0257] In step S560, N3IWF establishes and / or stores the mapping relationship between the first terminal identifier (UE IP address) and the PDU session.

[0258] For example, the N3IWF determines the UE IP address, which can be assigned to the UE by the N3IWF or obtained by the N3IWF from a DHCP server. Then, it establishes and / or stores the mapping between the UE IP address and the aforementioned PDU session.

[0259] In step S561, N3IWF sends the first terminal identifier (UE IP address) to the UE, and the UE receives the first terminal identifier.

[0260] For example, the N3IWF sends a DHCP offer message or a DHCP response message to the UE (as a reply to step S541), which includes the UE's IP address. Alternatively, the N3IWF sends the UE's IP address to the WLAN AP / AC, which then forwards it to the UE.

[0261] In step S570, the N3IWF sends the first parameter information to the WLAN AP / AC, and the AP / AC receives the first parameter information accordingly.

[0262] Optionally, the N3IWF also sends the UE IP address to the WLAN AP / AC, and the AP / AC receives the UE IP address accordingly.

[0263] For example, the N3IWF determines the first terminal identifier, i.e., the UE IP address, and sends the UE IP address and at least one of the following WLAN connection QoS parameters corresponding to the UE: UE bandwidth or UE priority, to the WLAN AP / AC.

[0264] Optionally, N3IWF generates bandwidth at the PDU session granularity based on QoS parameters related to the PDU session, such as the sum of the bandwidths of nonGBR and GBR service flows, and then sends it to the WLAN AP / AC. Alternatively, it sends the flow description information of the GBR service flow with the guaranteed bandwidth value, and / or the description of the nonGBR service flow with its bandwidth value to the WLAN AP / AC.

[0265] It should be understood that step S570 may occur before step S540, and this application does not impose any restrictions on the position of step S570 in method 500.

[0266] It should also be understood that in subsequent service flow data packet transmission, the QoS control of the UE, WLAN AP / AC, and N3IWF for service flow data packets in method 500 is the same as described in method 400, and will not be repeated here.

[0267] Figure 8A flowchart illustrating a communication method applicable to yet another N3GPP network architecture, provided as an embodiment of this application.

[0268] Figure 8 The communication method 600 shown is applicable to Figure 4 The network architecture 203 shown depicts a scenario where terminal devices access the UDM in 5GC through authentication, an AAA server, and an AAA proxy. Method 600 includes:

[0269] In step S610, the UE initiates an authentication process to the WLAN AP / AC. For example, the UE sends an authentication request message to the WLAN AP / AC, and the WLAN AP / AC receives the authentication request message.

[0270] In step S611, the WLAN AP / AC sends an authentication request message to the AAA server. Correspondingly, the AAA server receives the authentication request message and establishes a connection with the AAA agent.

[0271] In step S612, the AAA server sends an authentication request message to the AAA agent, and the AAA agent receives the authentication request message.

[0272] In step S613, the AAA agent sends an authentication request message (including first indication information) to the UDM, and the UDM receives the authentication request message.

[0273] Optionally, method 600 includes: step S620, whereby the UDM determines first parameter information. For example, the UDM searches for user subscription data based on a user identifier (e.g., a permanent user identifier or a temporary user identifier), and determines at least one of the following based on the first indication information: relevant WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, and UE priority, which constitutes the first parameter information. The first indication information includes at least one of the following: access technology indication (the access technology indication instructs the UE to access the AMF through the WLAN network), location area identifier (the location information of the UE), or network identifier information.

[0274] Before step S620, method 600 further includes:

[0275] In step S610', the UDR or UDM configures first parameter information, such as at least one of WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, and UE priority. The WLAN connection QoS parameters include at least one of the following:

[0276] 1) WLAN air interface QoS parameters, also known as WLAN channel access parameters, are used to determine the access parameters of the WLAN air interface channel, that is, to determine how the UE preempts resources on the WLAN air interface channel in order to achieve WLAN air interface QoS control. WLAN channel access parameters include at least one of the WLAN connection QoS identifier and channel QoS parameters.

[0277] 2) The correspondence between 5G Quality of Service identifier (5QI) and WLAN channel access parameters.

[0278] QoS identifiers for WLAN connections may include EDCA values, WLAN UP values, DSCP values, or PCP values. Channel QoS parameters include one or more of the following: latency, packet loss rate, guaranteed bandwidth, maximum bandwidth, peak rate, and jitter.

[0279] Step S610' is the same as step S410' in method 400, and the specific content of the relevant parameters is the same as the description of step S410', so it will not be repeated here.

[0280] Optionally, the UDR or UDM may also configure the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information (such as WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority) and multiple location areas or multiple network identifiers. This correspondence is used to indicate that the QoS control parameter information is applicable to a specific location area's WLAN or a specific network (such as a campus network).

[0281] For example, when a UDR or UDM is configured with a set of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the UDR or UDM can determine the first parameter information through the first indication information. When a UDR or UDM is configured with multiple sets of QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology, the UDR or UDM needs to obtain mapping relationship information, which indicates the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. Based on the mapping relationship information, the UDR or UDM determines the set of QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information. The first identifier is the relevant identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0282] Optionally, the first identifier includes at least one of the WLAN location area identifier and the network identifier.

[0283] It should be understood that when the aforementioned QoS control parameter information (e.g., WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority) is configured in the UDM, after receiving the request message in step S613, the UDM searches locally for the relevant WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority based on the information included in the request message. When the aforementioned QoS control parameter information is configured in the UDR, after receiving the request message in step S613, the UDM needs to obtain the WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority related to the information included in the request message from the UDR. Alternatively, the relevant WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, or UE priority can be obtained before the UDM receives the request message in step S613; this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0284] Optionally, method 600 further includes:

[0285] In step S630, the UDM obtains QoS parameters at the service flow granularity from the UDR or PCF. For example, the UDM obtains the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier (WLAN UP) of the WLAN connection.

[0286] Optionally, as an alternative to step S630' of steps S630, S631, and S632, the AAA server obtains QoS parameters at the service flow granularity from the UDR or PCF through the AAA agent based on the user identifier, and / or the user's external identifier (e.g., GPSI identifier, or user's phone number, etc.). For example, it obtains the correspondence information between service flow description information and QoS identifier (WLAN UP) of WLAN connection, and / or GPSI identifier.

[0287] In step S631, the UDM sends the user external identifier and first parameter information to the AAA agent. The first parameter information includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, UE priority, QFI, and WLAN UP value. Correspondingly, the AAA agent receives the user external identifier and at least one of the following: WLAN channel access parameters, UE-level bandwidth, UE priority, service flow identifier, and WLAN UP value.

[0288] For example, the UDM sends an authentication success message to the AAA agent, which includes the user's external identifier (such as a GPSI identifier or the user's phone number) and at least one of the following: WLAN channel access parameters, UE granular bandwidth, UE priority, QFI and WLAN UP values.

[0289] Optionally, the authentication success message may also include an authentication reply message, which carries at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE-level bandwidth, UE priority, QFI and WLAN UP values.

[0290] In step S632, the AAA agent forwards the parameters received in step S631 to the AAA server.

[0291] In step S640, the AAA server accepts or updates the first parameter information.

[0292] For example, the AAA server looks up user context information based on the user's external identifier, and updates or accepts WLAN connection QoS parameters sent by the UDM based on the user's context information in the AAA server or based on local policies, including at least one of UE-granular bandwidth, UE priority, or QFI and WLAN UP values.

[0293] In step S650, the AAA server sends the first parameter information to the WLAN AP / AC, and the WLAN AP / AC receives the first parameter information.

[0294] For example, the AAA server sends at least one of the following to the WLAN AP / AC: WLAN channel access parameters, UE granular bandwidth, UE priority, QFI, or WLAN UP value.

[0295] It should be understood that including both QFI and WLAN UP values ​​means including the correspondence between QFI and WLAN UP.

[0296] In step S651, the AAA server forwards the first parameter information from the UDM to the UE. For example, the AAA server forwards the first parameter information to the UE through an authentication reply message. The QoS control parameter information includes at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, UE priority, QFI, or WLAN UP value. Correspondingly, the UE receives the first parameter information.

[0297] Optionally, the first parameter information sent by the AAA server in the authentication reply message is updated. Alternatively, the AAA server generates an authentication reply message for the UE, which carries the first parameter information confirmed by the AAA server, such as at least one of the following: WLAN connection QoS parameters, UE granular bandwidth, UE priority, service flow identifier, and WLAN UP value.

[0298] It should be understood that the subsequent QoS control of service flow data packets by the UE, WLAN AP / AC, and AAA server based on the above parameters is the same as the description of QoS control of service flow data packets by the UE, WLAN AP / AC, and N3IWF in Method 400, and will not be repeated here.

[0299] It should be understood that the dashed steps shown in the flowchart above are optional steps, and the order of each step is determined according to the internal logic of the method. The sequence numbers shown in the diagram are only examples and do not impose any limitations on this application.

[0300] It should also be understood that the methods provided in the embodiments of this application can be used alone or in combination, and this application does not impose any restrictions on them.

[0301] It should be noted that, Figures 5-8 The execution entity shown in the diagram is merely an example; any entity that supports the implementation of this execution entity could also be an example. Figures 5-8 This application does not limit the chip, chip system, or processor used in the methods shown.

[0302] The method embodiments of this application have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. The apparatus embodiments of this application are described below. It is understood that the descriptions of the method embodiments and the apparatus embodiments may correspond to each other; therefore, any parts not described herein can be referred to the preceding method embodiments.

[0303] It is understood that, in the above-described method embodiments, the methods and operations implemented by core network elements can also be implemented by components (e.g., chips or circuits) that can be used in core network elements. Similarly, the methods and operations implemented by N3GPP access network equipment can also be implemented by components (e.g., chips or circuits) that can be used in N3GPP access network equipment, and the methods and operations implemented by the first terminal device can also be implemented by components (e.g., chips or circuits) that can be used in the first terminal device. Furthermore, the methods and operations implemented by the N3GPP access gateway can also be implemented by components (e.g., chips or circuits) that can be used in N3GPP access gateway equipment.

[0304] The above mainly describes the solution provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of interaction between various network elements. It is understood that each network element, such as a transmitting or receiving device, includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules to perform the above functions. Those skilled in the art should recognize that, based on the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0305] This application embodiment can divide the transmitting or receiving device into functional modules according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional module. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. The following description uses the division of functional modules according to each function as an example.

[0306] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 900 includes a transceiver unit 910 and a processing unit 920. The transceiver unit 910 can communicate with external devices, and the processing unit 920 is used for data processing. The transceiver unit 910 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication unit.

[0307] Optionally, the communication device 900 may further include a storage unit, which may be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 920 may read the instructions and / or data in the storage unit.

[0308] In one scenario, the communication device 900 can be a core network element, such as a unified data management network element (UDM) or a unified data storage network element (UDR). The transceiver unit 910 is used to perform the receiving or transmitting operations of the core network element in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 920 is used to perform the internal processing operations of the core network element in the above method embodiment.

[0309] In one design, the processing unit 920 is used to configure first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for non-3GPP access technology. The first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology. The transceiver unit 910 is used to send the first parameter information.

[0310] Based on the above scheme, this application configures QoS control parameters for N3GPP access technology in core network elements (e.g., Unified Data Management Element UDM, Unified Data Storage Element UDR), and sends these QoS control parameters to the N3GPP access side (including N3GPP access equipment and terminal equipment). This enables the core network elements and the N3GPP access side to achieve unified QoS control policies when performing QoS control on service flow data packets transmitted through N3GPP access technology, thereby improving user experience.

[0311] In one possible implementation, the first parameter information includes at least one of: N3GPP access technology connection QoS parameters, terminal device-level bandwidth, and terminal device priority. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: N3GPP access technology channel access parameters, and the correspondence between 5G QoS identifiers and N3GPP access technology channel access parameters. The N3GPP access technology channel access parameters include at least one of the N3GPP connection QoS identifier and channel QoS parameters.

[0312] In one possible implementation, before the transceiver unit 910 sends the QoS control parameter information, the transceiver unit 910 is further configured to receive first indication information, which indicates that the first terminal device accesses the core network element through N3GPP access technology, and the processing unit 920 is further configured to determine the first parameter information based on the first indication information.

[0313] In one possible implementation, the first indication information includes at least one of N3GPP access technology indication information, location area identifier, or network identifier.

[0314] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 920 is further configured to configure the correspondence between multiple location area identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information, and / or the correspondence between multiple network identifiers and multiple sets of QoS control parameter information.

[0315] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 920 is further configured to acquire mapping relationship information, which is used to indicate the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers. The processing unit 920 is further configured to determine the QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information based on the mapping relationship information. The first identifier is a related identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

[0316] In one possible implementation, the first identifier includes at least one of a location area identifier and a network identifier.

[0317] In another case, the communication device 900 can be a component configured in a core network element, such as a chip in a core network element.

[0318] In this case, the transceiver unit 910 can be an interface circuit, pins, etc. Specifically, the interface circuit can include input circuits and output circuits, and the processing unit 920 can include processing circuits.

[0319] Optionally, the transceiver unit 910 can also be a radio frequency (RF) module. The processing unit 920 can be a baseband module. The RF module is mainly used for transmitting and receiving RF signals and converting RF signals to baseband signals; the baseband module is mainly used for baseband processing and controlling the base station, etc.

[0320] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1000 includes a transceiver unit 1010 and a processing unit 1020. The transceiver unit 1010 can communicate with the outside world, and the processing unit 1020 is used for data processing. The transceiver unit 1010 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication unit.

[0321] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a storage unit, which may be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 1020 may read the instructions and / or data in the storage unit.

[0322] In one scenario, the communication device 1000 can be an N3GPP access network device, with the transceiver unit 1010 performing the receiving or transmitting operations of the N3GPP access network device in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 1020 performing the internal processing operations of the N3GPP access network device in the above method embodiment.

[0323] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1010 is used to receive first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information of N3GPP access technology, and the processing unit 1020 is used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the first parameter information.

[0324] Based on the above scheme, N3GPP access network devices can pre-store or configure QoS control parameters locally. However, these pre-stored or configured QoS control parameters may differ from those issued by the core network elements. Therefore, the N3GPP access network devices, based on the QoS control parameters received from the core network elements for N3GPP access technology, perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology. This achieves consistency between the QoS control policies of the core network elements and the N3GPP access side in N3GPP access technology, thereby improving the user experience.

[0325] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1010 is further configured to receive a first terminal identifier from the N3GPP access gateway, the first terminal identifier being the identifier of the terminal device in the N3GPP access network, and the processing unit 1020 is further configured to determine the service flow data packet based on the first terminal identifier.

[0326] In one possible implementation, the first parameter information includes at least one of the following: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device level, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of the following: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0327] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1010 is further configured to receive correspondence information between service flow description information and QoS identifiers of N3GPP connections, wherein the service flow description information is used to determine the service flow data packet.

[0328] In one possible implementation, the channel access parameters include the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The processing unit 1020 is specifically used to determine the channel QoS parameters of the service flow data packet based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The processing unit 1020 is also used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the terminal device when accessing the core network through N3GPP access technology based on the channel QoS parameters.

[0329] It is understood that the communication device 1000 may also be a component configured in an N3GPP access network device, such as a chip in an N3GPP access network device.

[0330] In this case, the transceiver unit 1010 can be an interface circuit, pins, etc. Specifically, the interface circuit can include an input circuit and an output circuit, and the processing unit 1020 can include a processing circuit.

[0331] In another scenario, the communication device 1000 can be an N3GPP access gateway, with the transceiver unit 1010 performing the receiving or transmitting operations of the N3GPP access gateway in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 1020 performing the internal processing operations of the N3GPP access gateway in the above method embodiment.

[0332] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1010 receives first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for N3GPP access technology. The transceiver unit 1010 is also used to send the QoS control parameter information to N3GPP access network equipment or terminal equipment. The first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal equipment through N3GPP access technology.

[0333] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1020 is used to determine a first terminal identifier, which is the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network, and the transceiver unit 1010 is also used to send the first terminal identifier to the N3GPP access network device.

[0334] In one possible implementation, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology, bandwidth at the terminal device granularity, and priority of the terminal device. The connection QoS parameters include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier on the N3GPP connection side and channel QoS parameters.

[0335] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1020 is specifically used to determine the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection. The service flow description information is used to determine the service flow data packet. The transceiver unit 1010 is also used to send the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection to the terminal device or the N3GPP access network device.

[0336] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 1020 is specifically used to determine the correspondence information between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and 5QI, and the correspondence between 5QI and the channel access parameter.

[0337] It is understood that the communication device 1000 may also be a component configured in an N3GPP access gateway, such as a chip in an N3GPP access gateway.

[0338] In this case, the transceiver unit 1010 can be an interface circuit, pins, etc. Specifically, the interface circuit can include an input circuit and an output circuit, and the processing unit 1020 can include a processing circuit.

[0339] In another case, the communication device 1000 can be a first terminal device, the transceiver unit 1010 is used to perform the receiving or sending operations of the first terminal device in the above method embodiment, and the processing unit 1020 is used to perform the internal processing operations of the first terminal device in the above method embodiment.

[0340] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1010 is used for first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for receiving non-3rd Generation Partnership Project (N3GPP) access technology, and the processing unit 1020 is used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the first parameter information.

[0341] Based on the above scheme, the first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the parameter information for QoS control of N3GPP access technology received from the core network element. This can achieve the unification of QoS control strategies in N3GPP access technology, thereby improving the user experience.

[0342] In one possible implementation, the first parameter information includes at least one of: connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology and bandwidth at the terminal device level. The connection QoS parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of: channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and the correspondence between a 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology. The channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology include at least one of the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

[0343] In one possible implementation, the service flow data packet includes a first terminal identifier, which is the identifier of the terminal device in the N3GPP access network.

[0344] In one possible implementation, the channel access parameter includes the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameter. Specifically, the processing unit is used to determine the channel QoS parameter based on the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection. The processing unit is also used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the channel QoS parameter.

[0345] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 1010 is specifically used to receive the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information, and the processing unit 1020 is specifically used to determine the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection corresponding to the service flow data packet based on the service flow description information and the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information.

[0346] It is understood that the communication device 1000 may also be a component configured in the first terminal device, such as a chip in the first terminal device.

[0347] In this case, the transceiver unit 1010 can be an interface circuit, pins, etc. Specifically, the interface circuit can include an input circuit and an output circuit, and the processing unit 1020 can include a processing circuit.

[0348] like Figure 11 As shown, this application embodiment also provides a communication device 1100. The communication device 1100 includes a processor 1110, which is coupled to a memory 1120. The memory 1120 is used to store computer programs or instructions and / or data. The processor 1110 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions and / or data stored in the memory 1120, so that the methods in the above method embodiments are executed.

[0349] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may include one or more processors 1110.

[0350] Optionally, such as Figure 11 As shown, the communication device 1100 may also include a memory 1120.

[0351] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may include one or more memory 1120s.

[0352] Alternatively, the memory 1120 may be integrated with the processor 1110 or set separately.

[0353] Optionally, such as Figure 11As shown, the communication device 1100 may further include a transceiver 1130 and / or a communication interface, which are used for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, a processor 1110 is used to control the transceiver 1130 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0354] It should be understood that the communication interface is used for communication between core network elements. For example, the communication interface is used for communication between core network elements and N3GPP access network equipment or other core network elements.

[0355] As one approach, the communication device 1100 is used to implement the operations performed by the core network element in the above method embodiments.

[0356] For example, processor 1110 is used to implement operations executed internally by the core network element in the above method embodiments, and transceiver 1130 is used to implement receiving or transmitting operations executed by the core network element in the above method embodiments. The processing unit 920 in device 900 can be... Figure 11 The processor in the middle, the transceiver unit 910 can be Figure 11 The transceiver and / or communication interface in the process. For details on the operations performed by the processor 1110, please refer to the description of the processing unit 920 above. For details on the operations performed by the transceiver 1130, please refer to the description of the transceiver unit 910. They will not be repeated here.

[0357] like Figure 12 As shown, this application embodiment also provides a communication device 1200. The communication device 1200 includes a processor 1210, which is coupled to a memory 1220. The memory 1220 is used to store computer programs or instructions and / or data. The processor 1210 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions and / or data stored in the memory 1220, so that the methods in the above method embodiments are executed.

[0358] Optionally, the communication device 1200 may include one or more processors 1210.

[0359] Optionally, such as Figure 12 As shown, the communication device 1200 may also include a memory 1220.

[0360] Optionally, the communication device 1200 may include one or more memory 1220s.

[0361] Alternatively, the memory 1220 may be integrated with the processor 1210 or set separately.

[0362] Optionally, such as Figure 12As shown, the communication device 1200 may further include a transceiver 1230 and / or a communication interface, which are used for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, a processor 1210 is used to control the transceiver 1230 and / or the communication interface to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0363] As one approach, the communication device 1200 is used to implement the operations performed by the N3GPP access network device in the above method embodiments. For example, the processor 1210 is used to implement the operations performed internally by the N3GPP access network device in the above method embodiments, and the communication interface is used to implement the receiving or transmitting operations performed by the N3GPP access network device in the above method embodiments. The processing unit 1020 in device 1000 can be... Figure 12 The processor in the transceiver unit 1010 can be a communication interface. For details on the operations performed by the processor 1210, please refer to the description of the processing unit 1020 above. For details on the operations performed by the communication interface, please refer to the description of the transceiver unit 1010. These details will not be repeated here.

[0364] As an alternative, the communication device 1200 is used to implement the operations performed by the N3GPP access gateway in the above method embodiments. For example, the processor 1210 is used to implement the operations performed internally by the N3GPP access gateway in the above method embodiments, and the transceiver 1230 is used to implement the receiving or transmitting operations performed by the N3GPP access gateway in the above method embodiments. The processing unit 1020 in device 1000 can be... Figure 12 The processor in the middle, the transceiver unit 1010 can be Figure 12 The transceiver in the transceiver. For details on the operations performed by the processor 1210, please refer to the description of the processing unit 1020 above. For details on the operations performed by the transceiver 1230, please refer to the description of the transceiver unit 1010. They will not be repeated here.

[0365] As another option, the communication device 1200 is used to implement the operations performed by the first terminal device in the above method embodiments. For example, the processor 1210 is used to implement the operations performed internally by the first terminal device in the above method embodiments, and the transceiver 1230 is used to implement the receiving or transmitting operations performed by the first terminal device in the above method embodiments. The processing unit 1020 in device 1000 can be... Figure 12 The processor in the middle, the transceiver unit 1010 can be Figure 12 The transceiver in the transceiver. For details on the operations performed by the processor 1210, please refer to the description of the processing unit 1020 above. For details on the operations performed by the transceiver 1230, please refer to the description of the transceiver unit 1010. They will not be repeated here.

[0366] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by core network elements, N3GPP access network devices, N3GPP access gateways, or first terminal devices in the above-described method embodiments.

[0367] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, the computer can implement the method executed by the core network element, or the method executed by the N3GPP access network device, or the method executed by the N3GPP access gateway, or the method executed by the first terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0368] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to implement the method executed by the core network element, or by the N3GPP access network device, or by the N3GPP access gateway, or by the first terminal device in the above method embodiments.

[0369] This application also provides a communication system, which includes the core network elements, N3GPP access network equipment, and first terminal equipment described in the above embodiments. Optionally, the communication system includes the N3GPP access gateway described in the above embodiments.

[0370] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant content in any of the communication devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0371] In this embodiment, the core network element, N3GPP access network device, N3GPP access gateway, or first terminal device may include a hardware layer, an operating system layer running on top of the hardware layer, and an application layer running on top of the operating system layer. The hardware layer may include hardware such as a central processing unit (CPU), a memory management unit (MMU), and memory (also called main memory). The operating system layer may be any one or more computer operating systems that implement business processing through processes, such as Linux, Unix, Android, iOS, or Windows. The application layer may include applications such as browsers, address books, word processing software, and instant messaging software.

[0372] This application does not specifically limit the structure of the execution subject of the method provided in this application embodiment. As long as it can communicate according to the method provided in this application embodiment by running a program that records the code of the method provided in this application embodiment. For example, the execution subject of the method provided in this application embodiment can be a core network element, an N3GPP access network device, a first terminal device, or an N3GPP access gateway, or it can be a functional module in the core network element, N3GPP access network device, first terminal device, or N3GPP access gateway that can call and execute a program.

[0373] As used in this specification, the terms "component," "module," "system," etc., are used to refer to computer-related entities, hardware, firmware, combinations of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component can be, but is not limited to, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable file, an execution thread, a program, and / or a computer. As illustrated, applications running on computing devices and computing devices can both be components. One or more components may reside in a process and / or an execution thread, and components may be located on a single computer and / or distributed among two or more computers. Furthermore, these components can be executed from various computer-readable media on which various data structures are stored. Components can communicate, for example, via local and / or remote processes based on signals having one or more data packets (e.g., data from two components interacting with another component between a local system, a distributed system, and / or a network, such as the Internet interacting with other systems via signals).

[0374] It should also be understood that the terms "first," "second," and various numerical designations used herein are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0375] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three situations: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone.

[0376] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0377] In the several 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 apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division. Units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, and components shown as units may or may not be physical units, i.e., 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.

[0378] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access. For example, but not limited to: computer-readable media may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), universal serial bus flash disk, portable hard disk, or other optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code having the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer. Additionally, by way of example but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDRSDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), or direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0379] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be included 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 communication method, characterized in that, include: The core network element is configured with first parameter information, which is the QoS control parameter information for non-3rd Generation Partnership Project (N3GPP) access technology. The first parameter information is used to perform QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology. The core network element sends the first parameter information; The first parameter information includes channel access parameters for N3GPP access technology, which includes the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first parameter information also includes: The correspondence between the 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, the bandwidth at the terminal device level, and the priority of the terminal device are at least one of the following:

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before the core network element sends the first parameter information, the method further includes: The core network element receives first indication information, which indicates that the first terminal device accesses the core network element via N3GPP access technology; and The core network element configuration first parameter information includes: The core network element determines the first parameter information based on the first instruction information.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The core network element acquires mapping relationship information, which is used to indicate the correspondence between multiple sets of QoS control parameter information and multiple identifiers; The core network element configuration first parameter information includes: The core network element determines the QoS control parameter information corresponding to the first identifier as the first parameter information based on the mapping relationship information. The first identifier is the relevant identifier of the N3GPP access technology used by the first terminal device.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first identifier includes at least one of a location area identifier and a network identifier.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Non-3GPP access network equipment receives first parameter information, which is the QoS control parameter information of N3GPP access technology; The N3GPP access network device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information. The first parameter information includes channel access parameters for N3GPP access technology, which includes the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The N3GPP access network device receives a first terminal identifier from the N3GPP access gateway, where the first terminal identifier is the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network. The N3GPP access network device determines the service flow data packet based on the first terminal identifier.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first parameter information also includes: The correspondence between the 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, the bandwidth at the terminal device level, and the priority of the terminal device are at least one of the following:

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: The N3GPP access network device receives the correspondence information between service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection. The service flow description information is used to determine the service flow data packet.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The N3GPP access network device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the QoS control parameter information, including: The N3GPP access network device determines the channel QoS parameters of the service flow data packet based on the correspondence between the service flow description information and the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection, and the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters. The N3GPP access network equipment performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the channel QoS parameters.

11. A method of communication, characterized in that, include: The first terminal device receives first parameter information, which is QoS control parameter information for non-3GPP access technology. The first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information. The first parameter information includes channel access parameters for N3GPP access technology, which includes the correspondence between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the channel QoS parameters.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first parameter information also includes: The correspondence between the 5G QoS identifier and the channel access parameters of the N3GPP access technology, and at least one of the following: bandwidth at the terminal device level.

13. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The service flow data packet includes a first terminal identifier, which is the identifier of the first terminal device in the N3GPP access network.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology based on the first parameter information, including: The first terminal device determines the channel QoS parameters based on the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection; The first terminal device performs QoS control on the service flow data packets transmitted by the first terminal device through N3GPP access technology according to the channel QoS parameters.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first terminal device receives the correspondence information between the QoS identifier and the service flow description information of the N3GPP connection; The first terminal device determines the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection corresponding to the service flow data packet based on the service flow description information and the correspondence information between the QoS identifier of the N3GPP connection and the service flow description information.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10, or includes a module for performing the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 15.

17. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a processor and a memory; the memory is used to store one or more computer programs that, when the one or more computer programs are run, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5 to be performed, or cause the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10 to be performed, or cause the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 15 to be performed.

18. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes a core network element, an N3GPP access network device, and a first terminal device. The core network element is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5. The N3GPP access network device is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10. The first terminal device is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 15.

19. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium is used to store a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10, or causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 15.

20. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes: computer program code, which, when executed, implements the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or the method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10, or the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 15.

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