A method, device and equipment for acquiring satellite coverage information and a storage medium

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a method, device and equipment for acquiring satellite coverage information, and a storage medium. The method comprises: determining a device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information according to at least one of a capability of a user equipment (UE) and a capability of a network device; the device subject is the UE or the network device; wherein the capability of the UE comprises an acquisition capability of the UE for the satellite coverage information; and the capability of the network device comprises an acquisition capability of the network device for the satellite coverage information. The method of the present disclosure ensures successful acquisition of the satellite coverage information, thereby ensuring that subsequent power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the satellite coverage information, and power consumption is saved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to methods, apparatus, devices and storage media for acquiring satellite coverage information. Background Technology

[0002] When user equipment (UE) uses a satellite network, there is often a situation where the satellite network coverage is discontinuous. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the satellite coverage information in order to perform mobility management and / or power saving management of the UE based on the satellite coverage information. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure proposes a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for acquiring satellite coverage information.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a method for obtaining satellite coverage information, including:

[0005] Based on at least one of the capabilities of a user equipment (UE) and a network device, a device entity for acquiring satellite coverage information is determined; the device entity is either a UE or a network device; wherein, the capabilities of the UE include: the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; and the capabilities of the network device include: the network device's ability to acquire satellite coverage information.

[0006] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a method for obtaining satellite coverage information, including:

[0007] Send a second indication message to the network device, the second indication message indicating the capabilities of the UE, the UE's capabilities including: the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; the second indication message is used by the network device to determine the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, the device subject being the UE or the network device.

[0008] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, including:

[0009] The processing module is configured to determine the device entity for acquiring satellite coverage information based on at least one of the capabilities of a user equipment (UE) and a network device; wherein the device entity is a UE or a network device; wherein the capabilities of the UE include the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; and the capabilities of the network device include the network device's ability to acquire satellite coverage information.

[0010] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, including:

[0011] The transceiver module is used to send a second indication information to the network device. The second indication information indicates the capabilities of the UE, including the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information. The second indication information is used by the network device to determine the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, wherein the device subject is the UE or the network device.

[0012] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device including a processor that, when the processor invokes a computer program in memory, executes the method described in the first or second aspect.

[0013] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device including a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program; the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first or second aspect above.

[0014] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device including a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is configured to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor, which is configured to execute the code instructions to cause the device to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect above.

[0015] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system that includes the communication device described in the third or fourth aspect, or the communication device described in the fifth aspect, or the communication device described in the sixth aspect, or the communication device described in the seventh aspect.

[0016] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions for use by the network device described above, which, when executed, cause the terminal device to perform the method described in the first or second aspect.

[0017] In a tenth aspect, this disclosure also provides a computer program product including a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect above.

[0018] Eleventhly, this disclosure provides a chip system including at least one processor and an interface for supporting network devices in implementing the functions involved in the methods described in the first or second aspect, such as determining or processing at least one of the data and information involved in the aforementioned methods. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing computer programs and data necessary for source and slave nodes. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0019] In a twelfth aspect, this disclosure provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in the first or second aspect above. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent and readily understood from the following description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figures 2a-2f This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figures 5a-5b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0026] Figures 6a-6b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figures 9a-9b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0030] Figures 10a-10b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0031] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0032] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0033] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0034] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0035] Figures 15a-15b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0036] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figures 17a-17c This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figures 18a-18c This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0041] Figure 21 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0042] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information according to yet another embodiment of this disclosure;

[0043] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0044] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0046] Figure 26 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in one embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with those of this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0048] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. The singular forms “a” and “the” as used in this disclosure and the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0049] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various information in embodiments of this disclosure, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish signals of the same type from each other. For example, first information may also be referred to as second information without departing from the scope of embodiments of this disclosure, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the words “if” and “suppose” as used herein may be interpreted as “when”, “when”, or “in response to a determination”.

[0050] Embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain this disclosure, and should not be construed as limiting this disclosure.

[0051] To facilitate understanding, the terminology used in this application will be introduced first.

[0052] 1. Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element

[0053] It supports terminal devices with different mobility management requirements. It can perform the following main tasks: Non-access stratum (NAS) signaling terminal; NAS signaling security; access stratum security control; inter-core network node signaling for mobility between 3GPP access networks; idle mode terminal device reachability (including paging and retransmission control and execution); registration area management; support for intra-system and inter-system mobility; access authentication; access authorization, including roaming permission checks; mobility management control (subscriptions and policies); network slicing support; and Session Management Function (SMF) selection.

[0054] The AMF network element, NAS signaling, 3GPP, and SMF mentioned above are examples described in this disclosure. This disclosure does not specifically limit these names, and other network elements that can achieve similar functions are also within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0055] 2. Application Function (AF)

[0056] AF can be used to provide applications with fifth-generation (5G) network capabilities. Applications acquire open capabilities through the interface between AF and Network Exposure Function (NEF) network elements.

[0057] The AF and NEF mentioned above are examples of descriptions in this disclosure. This disclosure does not specifically limit these names, and other network elements that can achieve similar functions are also within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0058] The AMF, AF, and AMF mentioned above are examples of descriptions in this disclosure. This disclosure does not specifically limit these names, and other network elements that can achieve similar functions are also within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0059] In communication systems, when User Equipment (UE) uses a satellite network, the signal coverage provided by the satellite to the ground may be discontinuous due to insufficient satellites in the Starlink network or satellite beam interruptions. For example, when a UE accesses the network via satellite in a certain area, there may be periods during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage. Optionally, when the UE has no satellite signal coverage, power-saving management can be implemented, such as putting the UE into a power-saving state (which can be understood as the UE not communicating with network devices), while the network devices temporarily suspend sending signaling / data to the UE to save power. When satellite signal coverage is restored, mobility management can be implemented for the UE, allowing the UE to re-establish a connection with the network and communicate to carry out services. Therefore, in a communication system, the UE and network devices need to determine the UE's unreachable time period (i.e., the period without signal coverage) in order to generate corresponding management information based on the UE's unreachable time period for power-saving management and mobility management. Optionally, when determining the unreachable period of the UE: it is usually necessary to first obtain the satellite coverage information of the satellite network at a specified location (such as the current location of the UE), and then determine the unreachable period of the UE based on the satellite coverage information combined with the location of the UE and / or the movement trajectory of the UE.

[0060] Based on this, this disclosure proposes a method for obtaining satellite coverage information.

[0061] To better understand the method for obtaining satellite coverage information disclosed in this disclosure, the communication system to which this disclosure applies will be described first.

[0062] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication system may include, but is not limited to, network devices and UEs. Optionally, Figure 1 The number and configuration of devices shown are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this disclosure. In practical applications, it may include one or more network devices, or one or more UEs. Optionally, Figure 1 The communication system shown is an example including a network device and a UE.

[0063] It should be noted that the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. For example, Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, 5th Generation (5G) mobile communication systems, 5G New Radio (NR) systems, or other future new mobile communication systems.

[0064] In this disclosure, the UE can be a user-side entity used to receive or transmit signals, such as a mobile phone. It can also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc. The UE can be a car with communication capabilities, a smart car, a mobile phone, a wearable device, a tablet computer, a computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in a smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in a smart city, a wireless terminal device in a smart home, and so on. This disclosure does not limit the specific technology or device form used by the UE.

[0065] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the network device may be a core network device. Optionally, the core network device may be a device deployed in the core network. The main functions of the core network device are to provide user connectivity, manage users, and carry out service delivery, serving as an interface to external networks. For example, the core network device in a 5G NR system may include at least one of the following: Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network elements, User Plane Function (UPF) network elements, Session Management Function (SMF) network elements, and Mobility Management Entity (MME).

[0066] It is understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0067] It is understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0068] The method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in the embodiments of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0069] It should be noted that, in this disclosure, unless contradictory, each step in any implementation or embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, the solution after removing some steps in a certain implementation or embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a certain implementation or embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. In addition, the optional methods or examples in a certain implementation or embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; furthermore, the implementations or embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. For example, some or all steps of different implementations or embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a certain implementation or embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional methods or examples of other implementations or embodiments. Regarding the notation "A or B", "A and / or B", "at least one of A and B", "A in one case, B in another case", "responding to one case A, responding to another case B", etc., in this disclosure, at least one of the following schemes may be included depending on the situation: A is executed regardless of B, that is, A in some implementations; B is executed regardless of A, that is, B in some implementations; A and B are selectively executed, that is, A and B are selected to be executed in some implementations; A and B are both executed, that is, A and B are executed in some implementations. Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the tables involved in this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0070] Figure 2a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 2a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0071] Step 201a: Determine the device subject for obtaining satellite coverage information based on at least one of the UE's capabilities and the network device's capabilities.

[0072] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the network device described above may include at least one of the following:

[0073] AMF;

[0074] SMF;

[0075] Mobility Management Entity (MME).

[0076] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the UE's capabilities may include: the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; the network device's capabilities may include: the network device's ability to acquire satellite coverage information.

[0077] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the UE's capability can be indicated by the UE to the network device. Optionally, when the UE supports obtaining satellite coverage information, the UE can send a second indication message to the network device to indicate that the UE supports the satellite coverage information acquisition capability. Optionally, the second indication message can be sent to the network device in at least one of a registration request, a registration update request, a service request message, or a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session (such as a PDU session establishment message and / or a PDU session modification message).

[0078] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the satellite coverage information may include first satellite coverage information and / or second satellite coverage information. The first satellite coverage information may indicate the satellite signal coverage of a satellite network, for example: the first satellite coverage information may indicate at least one of the following: the satellite signal coverage of the satellite network currently accessed by the UE, or the satellite signal coverage of at least one available satellite network. Optionally, the first satellite coverage information may include at least one of the following: third indication information, used to indicate the satellite signal coverage range of a satellite network (such as the satellite network currently accessed by the UE, and / or, at least one available satellite network) at various points in time; fourth indication information, used to indicate whether the satellite network provides satellite signal coverage to a specified location at various points in time, the specified location being, for example, the UE's current location, or a location of the UE at a future time. Optionally, the second satellite coverage information may be used to indicate the UE's satellite signal coverage. Optionally, the second satellite coverage information may indicate the satellite coverage of the UE at a specified location. For example, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second satellite coverage information may indicate the coverage information of the UE at its current location. Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second satellite coverage information may include at least one of the following: the time during which the UE has satellite signal coverage, the duration of the UE having satellite signal coverage, the time during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage, and the duration of the UE having no satellite signal coverage. In some embodiments, the second satellite coverage information may be satellite coverage information related to the UE.

[0079] Optionally, the terms "satellite coverage information, first satellite coverage information, second satellite coverage information, and satellite network coverage information" mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely a naming convention provided by this disclosure and may also be expressed as other terms, which are not limited by this disclosure.

[0080] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the device entity determined above for obtaining satellite coverage information can be a UE or a network device. Optionally, the method described above for "determining the device entity for obtaining satellite coverage information based on the capabilities of the UE and / or the network device" may include at least one of the following:

[0081] If the UE supports obtaining satellite coverage information but the network device does not support obtaining satellite coverage information, then the device subject used to obtain satellite coverage information is determined to be: UE;

[0082] If the UE does not support obtaining satellite coverage information, but the network device does support obtaining satellite coverage information, then the device subject used to obtain satellite coverage information is determined to be: the network device.

[0083] If the UE supports obtaining satellite coverage information and the network device supports obtaining satellite coverage information, then the device subject used to obtain satellite coverage information is determined to be either the network device or the UE.

[0084] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the network device may also determine the device subject for obtaining the first satellite coverage information based on at least one of the UE's capabilities and the network device's capabilities.

[0085] Optionally, in another embodiment of this disclosure, the network device may also determine the device subject for obtaining the second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the UE's capabilities and the network device's capabilities.

[0086] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0087] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the network device determines the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information from the network device and the UE based on the capabilities of the UE and / or the capabilities of the network device. This ensures that satellite coverage information can be successfully acquired based on the decision result, thereby guaranteeing that management information can be successfully generated based on the satellite coverage information and that power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0088] Figure 2b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 2b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0089] Step 201b: In response to the determined execution subject being the UE, a first indication message is sent to the UE, which is used to instruct the UE to obtain satellite coverage information.

[0090] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the first indication information can be used to instruct the UE to acquire first satellite coverage information and send the acquired first satellite coverage information to the network device. Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, after the network device acquires the first satellite coverage information sent by the UE, it can subsequently determine second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory, and then determine management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send it to the UE.

[0091] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the UE location may be obtained by the network device from the UE or access network device (such as a base station), and the UE movement trajectory may be obtained by the network device from the Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF).

[0092] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the management information can be used to manage the UE to maintain different states under different satellite signal coverage conditions. Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the management information can be used to: perform power-saving management on the UE when there is no satellite signal coverage, and perform mobility management on the UE when there is satellite signal coverage. Optionally, power-saving management can be understood, for example, as: managing the UE to remain in a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage; mobility management can be understood, for example, as: waking the UE from the power-saving state to a network-connected state when there is satellite signal coverage. For example, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the management information can be used to: manage the UE to remain in a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage, and to maintain a network-connected state when there is satellite signal coverage. Optionally, in some implementations, the management information can be "power-saving parameters and the timing duration of a Non-access stratum (NAS) timer". Optionally, the term "management information" mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure is merely a name provided by this disclosure and can be expressed as other terms, which are not limited by this disclosure.

[0093] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the management information may include at least one of the following:

[0094] Extended Discontinuous Reception (eDRX) parameters under Connection Management-IDLE (CM-IDLE) state;

[0095] Parameters used to configure the Mobile Initiated Connection On-One (MICO) mode;

[0096] Parameters used to configure the Power Saving Mode (PSM) state;

[0097] The timer duration is set periodically.

[0098] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the aforementioned eDRX parameters include the eDRX period and PTW (Paging Time Window), which can be set based on second satellite coverage information. Optionally, when the UE is configured with eDRX parameters, the UE will enter a power-saving state based on the eDRX period and PTW. For example, the UE can be paged and woken up by the network device within the PTW of each eDRX period to restore the connection and conduct services; at other times, the terminal device is in a power-saving state and does not conduct services.

[0099] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the aforementioned parameters for configuring the MICO mode may include an activation time, which may be set based on second satellite coverage information and may include the UE's satellite signal coverage time. Optionally, when the UE is configured with an activation time, the UE may be paged by the network device during the activation time and conduct services through communication with the network device, while remaining in a power-saving state at other times.

[0100] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the aforementioned parameters for configuring the PSM state may include an activation time and a periodic Tracking Area Update (TAU) timer. The activation time and TAU timer may be set based on second satellite coverage information. The activation time may include the time during which the UE has satellite signal coverage, and the duration of the TAU timer may include the time during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage. Optionally, when the UE is configured with an activation time and a TAU timer, during the activation time, it can be paged by the network device and conduct services through communication with the network device. At the end of the activation time, a periodic TAU timer may be started. During the operation of the periodic TAU timer, the terminal device is in a power-saving state and does not conduct services. When the periodic TAU timer expires, it is considered to have re-entered the activation time. At this time, the UE can be paged by the network device and conduct services through communication with the network device.

[0101] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the aforementioned periodic registration timer can be used to: start the periodic registration timer when the UE begins to enter a state without signal coverage; during the operation of the periodic registration timer, the UE is in a power-saving state and does not communicate or interact with the network device; when the periodic registration timer expires, the UE requests to register and update with the network device to establish a communication connection.

[0102] Optionally, in another embodiment of this disclosure, the first indication information can be used to instruct: the UE to obtain first satellite coverage information, and determine second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory, and then send the determined second satellite coverage information to the network device. Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, after the network device obtains the second satellite coverage information sent by the UE, it can determine management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send it to the UE to realize power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE.

[0103] Optionally, in another embodiment of this disclosure, the first indication information can be used to instruct: the UE to obtain first satellite coverage information, determine second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE's location, and the UE's movement trajectory, determine management information based on the second satellite coverage information, and then send the determined management information to the network device. Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, after the network device obtains the management information sent by the UE, it can authorize the management information sent by the UE. When the authorization is successful, the network device sends the management information to the UE, thereby realizing power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE.

[0104] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the first indication information may be carried in at least one of a registration response, a registration update response, a PDU session establishment response, a PDU session modification response, and a user configuration update and sent to the UE.

[0105] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, in response to the determination that the execution entity for obtaining the first satellite coverage information is a UE, a first indication message is sent to the UE, the first indication message being used to instruct the UE to obtain the first satellite coverage information.

[0106] Optionally, in another embodiment of this disclosure, in response to the determination that the execution entity for obtaining the second satellite coverage information is a UE, a first indication message is sent to the UE, the first indication message being used to instruct the UE to obtain the second satellite coverage information.

[0107] Optionally, in this disclosure, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementation methods or embodiments.

[0108] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, when the network device determines that the UE needs to acquire satellite coverage information, the network device sends a first indication message to the UE. This first indication message can be used to instruct the UE to acquire satellite coverage information. After the UE acquires the first indication message, the UE can determine at least one of the first satellite coverage information and the second satellite coverage information, or the UE can generate management information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information and the second satellite coverage information. The UE can then send at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the second satellite coverage information, and the management information to the network device, so that the network device can ultimately generate management information based on the acquired first satellite coverage information and / or the second satellite coverage information, or authorize the acquired management information. This ensures that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0109] Figure 2c This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 2c As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0110] Step 201c: In response to the determined execution entity being a network device, the network device obtains satellite coverage information.

[0111] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the satellite coverage information (i.e., the aforementioned first satellite coverage information and / or second satellite coverage information) may be obtained by the network device from the AF and / or the management server responsible for satellite operation information.

[0112] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the network device acquiring satellite coverage information may include at least one of the following:

[0113] The network device obtains the first satellite coverage information. Optionally, after obtaining the first satellite coverage information, the network device can generate the second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory. Then, it generates management information based on the second satellite coverage information and sends the generated management information to the UE to perform power saving management and / or mobility management on the UE.

[0114] The network device obtains the second satellite coverage information. Optionally, after obtaining the second satellite coverage information, the network device can generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the generated management information to the UE to perform power saving management and / or mobility management on the UE.

[0115] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, in response to the determined execution entity for obtaining the first satellite coverage information being a network device, the network device obtains the first satellite coverage information.

[0116] Optionally, in another embodiment of this disclosure, in response to the determined execution entity for obtaining the second satellite coverage information being a network device, the network device obtains the second satellite coverage information.

[0117] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0118] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, when the network device determines that it will acquire satellite coverage information, the network device will acquire at least one of the first satellite coverage information and the second satellite coverage information, so that the network device can generate management information based on the acquired first satellite coverage information and / or second satellite coverage information and send it to the network device, thereby ensuring successful power saving management and / or mobility management based on the management information, and saving power consumption.

[0119] Figure 2d This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 2dAs shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0120] Step 201d: Determine the device subject for generating management information based on at least one of the UE's capabilities and the network device's capabilities.

[0121] For a description of step 201d, please refer to the content of step 202a mentioned above.

[0122] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is a contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, the optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined, and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0123] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the network device will determine the device subject for generating management information from the two devices, the network device and the UE, based on the capabilities of the UE and / or the capabilities of the network device, so as to successfully generate management information. This ensures that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0124] Figure 2e This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 2e As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0125] Step 201e: In response to the determined execution subject being the UE, a first indication message is sent to the UE, which is used to instruct the UE to generate management information.

[0126] For an explanation of step 201e, please refer to the content of step 202b mentioned above.

[0127] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is a contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, the optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined, and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0128] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, when the network device determines that the UE generates management information, the network device sends a first indication message to the UE. This first indication message can be used to instruct the UE to generate management information. After the UE obtains the first indication message, it can generate management information and send the management information to the network device so that the network device can authorize the management information and send the authorized management information to the UE. This ensures that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0129] Figure 2f This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 2f As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0130] Step 201f: In response to the determined execution entity being a network device, the network device generates management information.

[0131] For a description of step 201f, please refer to the content of step 202c mentioned above.

[0132] In this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0133] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, when the network device determines that management information is generated by the network device, the network device will generate management information so that the network device can send the management information to the UE, thereby successfully realizing power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, saving power consumption.

[0134] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0135] Step 301: Obtain the first satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

[0136] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the UE may request the first satellite coverage information from the AF and / or the management server responsible for satellite operation information and then send it to the network device.

[0137] For a detailed explanation of step 301, please refer to the content of step 201a above.

[0138] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0139] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device acquires the first satellite coverage information sent by the UE. Subsequently, the network device can generate management information based on the first satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE to successfully achieve power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE, thereby saving power consumption.

[0140] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0141] Step 401: Determine the second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, UE location, and UE movement trajectory.

[0142] For a detailed explanation of step 401, please refer to the content of step 201b above.

[0143] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0144] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device generates second satellite coverage information based on the first satellite coverage information, so that management information can be successfully generated and sent to the UE based on the second satellite coverage information to perform power saving management and / or mobility management on the UE, thereby saving power consumption.

[0145] Figure 5a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 5a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0146] Step 501a: Generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE.

[0147] For a detailed explanation of step 501a, please refer to the content of step 201a mentioned above.

[0148] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0149] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the network device can generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE, thereby successfully realizing power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, saving power consumption.

[0150] Figure 5b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 5b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0151] Step 501b: Obtain the first satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

[0152] Step 502b: Determine the second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, UE location, and UE movement trajectory.

[0153] Step 503b: Generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE.

[0154] For a detailed description of steps 501b-503b, please refer to the content of the embodiment in Figure 2 above.

[0155] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0156] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device can acquire first satellite coverage information, generate management information based on the first satellite coverage information, and send the management information to the UE. Thus, based on the management information, power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved, saving power consumption.

[0157] Figure 6a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 6a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0158] Step 601a: Obtain the second satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

[0159] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the UE may first request and obtain the first satellite coverage information from the AF and / or the management server responsible for satellite operation information, and then determine the second satellite coverage information based on the first satellite coverage information before sending the determined second satellite coverage information to the network device. Alternatively, the UE may directly request and obtain the second satellite coverage information from the AF and / or the management server responsible for satellite operation information, and then send the obtained second satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0160] For a detailed explanation of step 601a, please refer to step 201b of the aforementioned embodiment in Figure 2.

[0161] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0162] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device acquires the second satellite coverage information sent by the UE, so that management information can be generated and sent to the UE based on the second satellite coverage information, thereby successfully realizing power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE and saving power consumption.

[0163] Figure 6b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 6b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0164] Step 601b: Obtain the second satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

[0165] Step 602b: Generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE.

[0166] For a detailed description of steps 601b-602b, please refer to the content of the embodiment in Figure 2 above.

[0167] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0168] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the network device can generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE, thereby successfully realizing power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, saving power consumption.

[0169] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0170] Step 701: Obtain the management information sent by the UE.

[0171] For a detailed explanation of step 701, please refer to step 201a of the aforementioned embodiment in Figure 2.

[0172] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0173] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device acquires the management information sent by the UE so that the management information can be authorized in the future, and the network device will return the authorized management information to the network device to realize power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE, thereby saving power consumption.

[0174] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0175] Step 801: Authorize the management information.

[0176] Step 802: In response to authorization approval, return the authorized management information to the UE.

[0177] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the authorized management information returned by the network device to the UE may be the same as or different from the management information sent by the UE to the network device.

[0178] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0179] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device acquires the management information sent by the UE, authorizes the management information sent by the UE, and then sends the authorized management information back to the UE, so as to successfully realize power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0180] Figure 9a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 9a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0181] Step 901a: The network device obtains the first satellite coverage information.

[0182] For a detailed explanation of step 901a, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0183] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, unless there is a contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, and optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0184] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device decides to acquire the first satellite coverage information. Based on the acquired first satellite coverage information, the network device generates management information and sends the management information to the UE. This enables the successful implementation of power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0185] Figure 9b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 9b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0186] Step 901b: The network device obtains the first satellite coverage information.

[0187] Step 902b: Determine the second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, UE location, and UE movement trajectory.

[0188] Step 903b: Generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE.

[0189] For a detailed description of steps 901b-903b, please refer to the content of the embodiment in Figure 2 above.

[0190] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0191] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device can acquire first satellite coverage information, generate management information based on the first satellite coverage information, and send the management information to the UE. Thus, based on the management information, power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved, saving power consumption.

[0192] Figure 10a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 10a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0193] Step 1001a: The network device acquires satellite coverage information.

[0194] For a detailed explanation of step 1001a, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0195] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, unless there is a contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, and optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0196] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device decides to acquire the second satellite coverage information. Based on the acquired second satellite coverage information, the network device generates management information and sends the management information to the UE. This enables the successful implementation of power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0197] Figure 10b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 10b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0198] Step 1001b: The network device obtains the coverage information of the second satellite.

[0199] Step 1002b: Generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the UE.

[0200] For a detailed description of steps 1001b-1002b, please refer to the content of the embodiment in Figure 2 above.

[0201] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0202] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device can acquire first satellite coverage information, generate management information based on the first satellite coverage information, and send the management information to the UE. Thus, based on the management information, power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved, saving power consumption.

[0203] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for acquiring satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a network device, such as... Figure 11 As shown,

[0204] Step 1101: Obtain the second indication information sent by the UE, which indicates the capabilities of the UE.

[0205] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, after the network device obtains the second indication information sent by the UE, it can determine the UE's capabilities based on the second indication information, so that the device subject for obtaining satellite coverage information can be determined based on at least one of the UE's capabilities and the network device's capabilities.

[0206] For a detailed explanation of step 1101, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0207] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0208] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the network device decides to acquire the second satellite coverage information. Based on the acquired second satellite coverage information, the network device generates management information and sends the management information to the UE. This enables the successful implementation of power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0209] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0210] Step 1201: Send the second instruction information to the network device.

[0211] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second indication information may indicate the capabilities of the UE, which may include the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information. Optionally, the second indication information may be used by the network device to determine the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, wherein the device subject is the UE or the network device.

[0212] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the UE sends the second indication information to the network device, enabling the network device to determine the UE's capabilities (i.e., the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information) based on the second indication information. Based on the UE's capabilities and the network device's capabilities (i.e., the network device's ability to acquire satellite coverage information), the network device then determines the device entity used to acquire the satellite coverage information. This device entity can be either the UE or the network device. Subsequently, satellite coverage information can be acquired based on the determined device entity, allowing for the generation of management information based on the acquired satellite coverage information. This ensures that power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully implemented based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0213] For detailed information on step 1201, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 2a Example description.

[0214] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0215] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE sends a second indication information to the network device, so that the network device can decide on the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information from the network device and the UE based on the second indication information, and acquire satellite coverage information based on the decision result, thus ensuring the successful acquisition of satellite coverage information. This ensures that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on satellite coverage information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0216] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0217] Step 1301: Obtain the first indication information sent by the network device.

[0218] Optionally, the first indication information can be used to instruct the UE to obtain satellite coverage information.

[0219] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the first indication information may be sent by the network device to the UE when the network device determines that the device subject used to obtain satellite coverage information is the UE.

[0220] For detailed information on step 1301, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 2a Example description.

[0221] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0222] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE receives a first indication information sent by the network device. The UE can then determine at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the second satellite coverage information, and management information based on the first indication information, and send it to the network device. This allows the network device to generate management information based on the acquired first and / or second satellite coverage information, or to authorize the acquired management information. This ensures that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0223] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 14 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0224] Step 1401: Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

[0225] For detailed information on step 1401, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 2a Example description.

[0226] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined or exchanged in order, and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0227] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the UE acquires first satellite coverage information so as to send the first satellite coverage information to the network device, or so as to determine at least one of second satellite coverage information and management information based on the first satellite coverage information, and send at least one of the second satellite coverage information and management information to the network device. Thus, the network device can ultimately generate management information based on the acquired first satellite coverage information and / or second satellite coverage information, or the network device can authorize the acquired management information, thereby ensuring that subsequent power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, saving power consumption.

[0228] Figure 15a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 15a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0229] Step 1501a: Send the first satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0230] For a detailed explanation of step 1501a, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0231] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0232] Figure 15b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 15b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0233] Step 1501b: Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

[0234] Step 1502b: Send the first satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0235] Step 1503b: Receive management information sent by the network device.

[0236] For detailed information on steps 1501b-1503b, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0237] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0238] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE sends first satellite coverage information to the network device so that the network device can generate management information based on the first satellite coverage information and send it to the UE, thereby ensuring that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0239] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 16 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0240] Step 1601: Generate second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, UE location, and UE movement trajectory.

[0241] For a detailed explanation of step 1601, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0242] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0243] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, when the UE can determine the second satellite coverage information based on the first satellite coverage information and send the second satellite coverage information to the network device, the network device can determine the management information based on the second satellite coverage information, thereby successfully realizing power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0244] Figure 17a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 17a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0245] Step 1701a: Send the second satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0246] For a detailed explanation of step 1701a, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0247] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0248] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE sends second satellite coverage information to the network device so that the network device can generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send it to the UE, thereby ensuring that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0249] Figure 17b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 17b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0250] Step 1701b: Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

[0251] Step 1702b: Generate second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, UE location, and UE movement trajectory.

[0252] Step 1703b: Send the second satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0253] Step 1704b: Obtain management information sent by the network device.

[0254] For detailed information on steps 1701b-1704b, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0255] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0256] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE sends second satellite coverage information to the network device so that the network device can generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send it to the UE, thereby ensuring that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0257] Figure 17c This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 17cAs shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0258] Step 1701b: Obtain the coverage information of the second satellite.

[0259] Step 1702b: Send the second satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0260] Step 1703b: Obtain management information sent by the network device.

[0261] For detailed information on steps 1701b-1703b, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0262] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0263] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE sends second satellite coverage information to the network device so that the network device can generate management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send it to the UE, thereby ensuring that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully achieved based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0264] Figure 18a This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 18a As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0265] Step 1801a: Determine management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the network device.

[0266] For a detailed explanation of step 1801a, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0267] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0268] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE determines management information and sends the management information to the network device so that the network device can authorize the acquired management information, thereby ensuring that subsequent power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0269] Figure 18b This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 18b As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0270] Step 1801b: Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

[0271] Step 1802b: Generate second satellite coverage information based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, UE location, and UE movement trajectory.

[0272] Step 1803b: Determine management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the network device.

[0273] For detailed information on steps 1801b-1803b, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0274] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0275] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE determines management information and sends the management information to the network device so that the network device can authorize the acquired management information, thereby ensuring that subsequent power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0276] Figure 18c This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 18c As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0277] Step 1801c: Obtain the coverage information of the second satellite.

[0278] Step 1802c: Determine management information based on the second satellite coverage information and send the management information to the network device.

[0279] For detailed information on steps 1801c-1802c, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0280] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0281] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this embodiment, the UE determines management information and sends the management information to the network device so that the network device can authorize the acquired management information, thereby ensuring that subsequent power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0282] Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 19 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0283] Step 1901: Obtain management information sent by the network device.

[0284] For a detailed explanation of step 1901, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0285] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0286] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the UE will obtain management information sent by the network device, thereby ensuring that subsequent power saving management and / or mobility management of the UE can be successfully realized based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0287] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is executed by a UE, such as... Figure 20 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0288] Step 2001: Obtain the authorized management information sent by the network device.

[0289] For a detailed explanation of step 2001, please refer to the aforementioned text. Figure 2a Contents of the example.

[0290] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, without contradiction, each step can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have its order interchanged. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementations or embodiments.

[0291] In summary, in the satellite coverage information acquisition method provided in this disclosure embodiment, the UE will obtain the authorized management information sent by the network device, thereby ensuring that the UE can be successfully managed for power saving and / or mobility based on the authorized management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0292] Optionally, in some embodiments, steps 201a, 201b, and 201c can be combined; in some embodiments, steps 201d, 201e, and 201f can be combined; in some embodiments, steps 701, 802, and 803 can be combined; in some embodiments, steps 1201 and 1301 can be combined; in some embodiments, steps 1801b, 1802b, 1803b, and 2001 can be combined; and in some embodiments, steps 1801c, 1802c, and 2001 can be combined.

[0293] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, without contradiction, the above... Figures 2a-20 Any steps between any of the embodiments can be combined.

[0294] The following is an example description of an embodiment of this disclosure:

[0295] Optionally, the network obtains satellite coverage information for the UE using satellite access decision satellite coverage information (i.e., the aforementioned first satellite coverage information) based on at least one of the following: either the UE obtains satellite coverage information or the network obtains satellite coverage information:

[0296] Indicator of UE's satellite coverage information acquisition capability

[0297] Network supports satellite coverage information acquisition capabilities

[0298] Network's ability to obtain UE location

[0299] The network has the ability to acquire the UE's movement trajectory, which is the UE's location information at a predetermined time.

[0300] Optionally, before the network makes the decision, the method further includes: in response to the UE's ability to support satellite coverage information acquisition, the UE provides the capability indication to the network (AMF / MME).

[0301] Optionally, the UE may provide the indication in a registration request, registration update request, service request message, or Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session operation request.

[0302] Optionally, in response to a network decision requiring the UE to obtain satellite coverage information, an instruction for the UE to obtain satellite coverage information is returned to the UE.

[0303] Optionally, the network may provide the indication in the registration response, registration update response, PDU session establishment / modification response, and user configuration update.

[0304] Optionally, the UE obtains satellite coverage information and generates UE-related satellite coverage information based on the satellite coverage information, location information, and / or UE movement trajectory.

[0305] Optionally, in response to a network decision to obtain satellite coverage information, the network obtains either the satellite coverage information or satellite coverage information related to the UE (i.e., the aforementioned second satellite coverage information).

[0306] Optionally, in response to the network acquiring satellite coverage information, the network further generates UE-related satellite coverage information based on the satellite coverage information, UE location, or UE movement trajectory.

[0307] Optionally, the satellite coverage information related to the UE includes at least one of the following:

[0308] The UE has satellite signal coverage time;

[0309] The UE has satellite signal coverage duration;

[0310] The duration during which the UE loses satellite signal coverage;

[0311] UE unreachable period (duration during which the UE loses satellite signal coverage).

[0312] Optionally, the UE generates UE-related satellite coverage information based on the satellite coverage information, UE location, and / or UE trajectory, and generates power-saving parameters and NAS timer (power-saving parameters and NAS timer are the aforementioned management information) based on the UE-related satellite coverage information.

[0313] Optionally, the UE sends the power-saving parameters and NAS timer to the network.

[0314] Optionally, the UE generates UE-related satellite coverage information based on satellite coverage information, UE location, and / or UE movement trajectory, and sends the UE-related satellite coverage information to the network. The network generates power-saving parameters and a NAS timer based on the UE-related satellite coverage information.

[0315] Optionally, the UE sends the satellite coverage information to the network. The network generates UE-related satellite coverage information based on the satellite coverage information, the UE's location, and / or the UE's movement trajectory, and further generates power-saving parameters and a NAS timer based on the UE-related satellite coverage information.

[0316] Optionally, the network generates power-saving parameters and a NAS timer based on the UE's relevant satellite coverage information.

[0317] Optionally, the network sends the power-saving parameters and NAS timer to the UE.

[0318] Optionally, the power-saving parameters and NAS timer are used to ensure that the UE remains in a power-saving state during periods without satellite signal coverage and initiates communication with the network when satellite signal coverage is restored. The NAS timer includes a periodic registration update timer, and the power-saving parameters include eDRX parameters, PSM parameters, etc.

[0319] Optionally, the following are specific embodiments of the methods disclosed herein.

[0320] Figure 21 This is an interactive schematic diagram of a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown below. Figure 21 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0321] 1. The UE accesses the 5GC network via satellite and initiates the access registration process. If the UE supports satellite coverage information acquisition, the UE includes an indication of its satellite coverage information acquisition capability (i.e., the aforementioned second indication information) in the registration request message sent to the AMF.

[0322] 2. The AMF (i.e., the aforementioned network device) receives the UE's registration request. During the UE registration process, the AMF can further obtain the UE's movement trajectory analysis results from the NWDAF. If such analysis results are available, the NWDAF can provide them to the AMF.

[0323] 3. Based on the UE's ability to support satellite coverage information acquisition, and whether the AMF supports satellite coverage acquisition and can acquire the UE's trajectory analysis results, the AMF makes a decision on whether to support satellite coverage information acquisition, i.e., the decision is made by the UE's satellite coverage information acquisition.

[0324] 4. The AMF returns a registration acceptance message to the UE, and includes an instruction for the UE to obtain satellite coverage information (i.e., the aforementioned first instruction information).

[0325] 5. Based on the notification returned by the AMF, the UE learns that it needs to obtain satellite coverage information. The UE then obtains the first satellite coverage information from the AF or the management server responsible for satellite operation information.

[0326] 6. Based on the first satellite coverage information and the UE's location information and movement trajectory information, the UE calculates and generates second satellite coverage information. The second satellite coverage information is UE-related satellite coverage information and includes at least one of the following: the time when the UE has signal coverage, the duration of the UE's signal coverage, the time when the UE has no signal coverage, and the duration of the UE's no signal coverage. The duration of the UE's no signal coverage is also the time period when the UE is unreachable.

[0327] 7. The UE further sets the NAS timer (e.g., Periodic registration update timer) and PSM parameters (e.g., eDRX parameters) based on the UE unreachable period information.

[0328] 8a1. The UE provides the NAS timer and PSM parameters to the AMF and requests AMF authorization.

[0329] 8a2.AMF returns the authorization result, and the UE executes the authorization parameters. This ensures that the UE remains in a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage.

[0330] The process described above, 8a1-8a2, can also be replaced by the following actions:

[0331] 8b1-8b2. The UE should send the UE unreachable period information to the AMF at the request of the network device AMF.

[0332] 8b3.AMF generates a NAS timer (e.g., Periodic Registration Update Timer) and PSM parameters (e.g., eDRX parameters) based on the UE unreachable period information.

[0333] 8b4.AMF provides the NAS timer and PSM parameters to the UE. This ensures that the UE remains in a power-saving state during periods without satellite signal coverage.

[0334] Optionally, in some embodiments, steps 5 and 6 and 8b1-8b2, 8b3, and 8b4 can be combined. In some embodiments, step 5 can be combined with steps 8b3 and 8b4. In some embodiments, the step 2 above, "AMF can further obtain the UE's movement trajectory analysis results from NWDAF," can also be executed after step 3.

[0335] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, Figure 21 The steps in the process can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have their order changed. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementation methods or embodiments.

[0336] Figure 22 This is an interactive schematic diagram of a method for obtaining satellite coverage information provided in an embodiment of this disclosure, as shown below. Figure 22 As shown, the method for obtaining satellite coverage information may include the following steps:

[0337] 1. The UE accesses the 5GC network via satellite and initiates the access registration process. If the UE supports satellite coverage information acquisition and processing capabilities, the UE includes an indication of supporting satellite coverage information acquisition and processing (i.e., the aforementioned second indication information) in the registration request message sent to the AMF. The satellite coverage information acquisition and processing capability indicates that the UE can acquire first satellite coverage information and supports the calculation of second satellite coverage information, including time periods when the UE is unreachable, based on the satellite coverage information, the UE's location information, and the UE's movement trajectory. The UE unreachable time period is the start time and duration of the period when the UE has no satellite coverage at a specified location (e.g., the current location, or a predetermined location).

[0338] 2. The AMF receives the UE's registration request. During the UE registration process, the AMF can further obtain the UE's movement trajectory analysis results from the NWDAF. If such analysis results are available, the NWDAF can provide them to the AMF.

[0339] 3. Based on the UE's ability to acquire and process satellite coverage information, and whether the AMF supports satellite coverage acquisition and processing, and whether it can acquire the UE's trajectory analysis results, the AMF makes the decision on satellite coverage information acquisition and processing. That is, the decision is made by the AMF to acquire and process satellite coverage information.

[0340] 4. The AMF returns a registration acceptance message to the UE.

[0341] 5. The AMF obtains the first satellite coverage information from the AF or the management server responsible for satellite operation information.

[0342] 6. Based on the first satellite coverage information and the UE location information and movement trajectory information, the AMF calculates and generates second satellite coverage information that includes the time period during which the UE is unreachable. The time period during which the satellite provides no signal coverage to the UE's specified location.

[0343] 7. The AMF further sets the NAS timer (e.g., Periodic registration update timer) and PSM parameters (e.g., eDRX parameters) based on the UE unreachable period information.

[0344] 8. The AMF provides the NAS timer and PSM parameters to the UE. This ensures that the UE remains in a power-saving state during periods without satellite signal coverage.

[0345] 9. The process described in 5-6 above can also be replaced by the following action: the AMF directly obtains the satellite coverage information (i.e., the second satellite coverage information) related to the UE from the AF.

[0346] Optionally, in some embodiments, steps 5, 6, and 9 above can be combined. In some embodiments, the step 2 above, "AMF can further obtain the UE's movement trajectory analysis results from NWDAF," can also be performed after step 3.

[0347] Optionally, in this implementation or embodiment, unless there is contradiction, Figure 21 The steps in the process can be independent, arbitrarily combined, or have their order changed. Optional methods or examples can be arbitrarily combined and can be arbitrarily combined with other implementation methods or embodiments.

[0348] Figure 23 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown below. Figure 23 As shown, the device may include:

[0349] The processing module is configured to determine, based on at least one of the capabilities of a user equipment (UE) and a network device, a device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, wherein the device subject is a UE or a network device; wherein the capabilities of the UE include the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; and the capabilities of the network device include the network device's ability to acquire satellite coverage information.

[0350] In summary, in the communication device provided in this embodiment, the network device determines the device subject for obtaining satellite coverage information from the network device and the UE based on the capabilities of the UE and / or the network device itself. This ensures that satellite coverage information can be successfully obtained based on the decision result, thereby guaranteeing that management information can be successfully generated based on the satellite coverage information and that power saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the management information, thus saving power consumption.

[0351] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the satellite coverage information includes at least one of first satellite coverage information and second satellite coverage information;

[0352] The first satellite coverage information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the satellite signal coverage of the satellite network currently accessed by the UE, and the satellite signal coverage of at least one available satellite network;

[0353] The second satellite coverage information is used to indicate the satellite signal coverage status of the UE.

[0354] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0355] In response to the determination that the device entity is a UE, a first indication message is sent to the UE, the first indication message being used to instruct the UE to obtain satellite coverage information.

[0356] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0357] Obtain the first satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

[0358] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0359] In response to the determination that the device is a network device, the network device acquires the satellite coverage information.

[0360] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0361] Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

[0362] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0363] The second satellite coverage information is determined based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory.

[0364] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0365] Obtain the second satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

[0366] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0367] Obtain coverage information from the second satellite.

[0368] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0369] Management information is generated based on the second satellite coverage information, and the management information is sent to the UE.

[0370] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0371] Obtain the management information sent by the UE; the management information is used to manage the UE to maintain a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage and to maintain a network connection state when there is satellite signal coverage.

[0372] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0373] Authorize the management information;

[0374] In response to authorization approval, the authorized management information is returned to the UE.

[0375] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0376] Obtain second indication information sent by the UE, the second indication information indicating the capabilities of the UE.

[0377] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second satellite coverage information indicates the satellite coverage status of the UE at a specified location.

[0378] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second satellite coverage information includes at least one of the following:

[0379] The time during which the UE has satellite signal coverage;

[0380] The duration for which the UE has satellite signal coverage;

[0381] The time during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage;

[0382] Duration of time when the UE has no satellite signal coverage.

[0383] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the management information includes at least one of the following:

[0384] Extended discontinuous reception of eDRX parameters under connection management idle state CM-IDLE;

[0385] Parameters used to configure MICO mode where only mobile devices initiate connections;

[0386] Parameters used to configure the power-saving PSM state;

[0387] The timer duration is set periodically.

[0388] Figure 24 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown below. Figure 24As shown, the device may include:

[0389] The transceiver module is used to send a second indication information to the network device. The second indication information indicates the capabilities of the UE, including the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information. The second indication information is used by the network device to determine the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, wherein the device subject is the UE or the network device.

[0390] In summary, in the communication device provided in this embodiment, the UE sends a second indication message to the network device so that the network device can determine the device subject for obtaining satellite coverage information from the network device and the UE based on the second indication message, and obtain the satellite coverage information based on the decision result, thus ensuring the successful acquisition of satellite coverage information. This ensures that subsequent power-saving management and / or mobility management can be successfully performed based on the satellite coverage information, thereby saving power consumption.

[0391] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the satellite coverage information includes at least one of first satellite coverage information and second satellite coverage information;

[0392] The first satellite coverage information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the satellite signal coverage of the satellite network currently accessed by the UE, and the satellite signal coverage of at least one available satellite network;

[0393] The second satellite coverage information is used to indicate the satellite signal coverage status of the UE.

[0394] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0395] The first indication information sent by the network device is obtained, which is used to instruct the UE to obtain satellite coverage information.

[0396] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0397] Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

[0398] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0399] Send the first satellite coverage information to the network device.

[0400] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0401] The second satellite coverage information is generated based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory.

[0402] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0403] The second satellite coverage information is sent to the network device.

[0404] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0405] Management information is determined based on the second satellite coverage information and sent to the network device. The management information is used to manage the UE to maintain a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage and to maintain a network connection state when there is satellite signal coverage.

[0406] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0407] Obtain the management information sent by the network device.

[0408] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the apparatus is further configured to:

[0409] Obtain the authorized management information sent by the network device.

[0410] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second satellite coverage information indicates the satellite coverage status of the UE at a specified location.

[0411] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the second satellite coverage information includes at least one of the following:

[0412] The time during which the UE has satellite signal coverage;

[0413] The duration for which the UE has satellite signal coverage;

[0414] The time during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage;

[0415] Duration of time when the UE has no satellite signal coverage.

[0416] Optionally, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the management information includes at least one of the following:

[0417] Extended discontinuous reception of eDRX parameters under connection management idle state CM-IDLE;

[0418] Parameters used to configure MICO mode where only mobile devices initiate connections;

[0419] Parameters used to configure the power-saving PSM state;

[0420] The timer duration is set periodically.

[0421] Please see Figure 25 , Figure 25 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 2500 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 2500 can be a network device, a terminal device, a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the above methods in a network device, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the implementation of the above methods in a terminal device. This device can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0422] The communication device 2500 may include one or more processors 2501. The processor 2501 may be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control the communication device (e.g., base station, baseband chip, terminal equipment, terminal equipment chip, DU or CU, etc.), execute computer programs, and process data from the computer programs.

[0423] Optionally, the communication device 2500 may further include one or more memories 2502, which may store a computer program 2504. The processor 2501 executes the computer program 2504 to cause the communication device 2500 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. Optionally, the memory 2502 may also store data. The communication device 2500 and the memory 2502 may be provided separately or integrated together.

[0424] Optionally, the communication device 2500 may also include a transceiver 2505 and an antenna 2506. The transceiver 2505 may be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, or transceiver circuit, etc., and is used to implement the transmission and reception functions. The transceiver 2505 may include a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver may be referred to as a receiver or receiving circuit, etc., and is used to implement the receiving function; the transmitter may be referred to as a transmitter or transmitting circuit, etc., and is used to implement the transmitting function.

[0425] Optionally, the communication device 2500 may further include one or more interface circuits 2506. The interface circuits 2506 are used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor 2501. The processor 2501 executes the code instructions to cause the communication device 2500 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments.

[0426] In one implementation, the processor 2501 may include a transceiver for implementing receive and transmit functions. For example, the transceiver may be a transceiver circuit, an interface, or an interface circuit. The transceiver circuit, interface, or interface circuit for implementing receive and transmit functions may be separate or integrated. The aforementioned transceiver circuit, interface, or interface circuit can be used for reading and writing code / data, or it can be used for transmitting or relaying signals.

[0427] In one implementation, processor 2501 may store computer program 2503, which runs on processor 2501 and causes communication device 2500 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. Computer program 2503 may be embedded in processor 2501; in this case, processor 2501 may be implemented in hardware.

[0428] In one implementation, the communication device 2500 may include circuitry capable of performing the transmitting, receiving, or communication functions described in the foregoing method embodiments. The processor and transceiver described in this application can be implemented on integrated circuits (ICs), analog ICs, radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs), mixed-signal ICs, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), electronic devices, etc. The processor and transceiver can also be manufactured using various IC process technologies, such as complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS), n-metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS), positive-channel metal oxide semiconductors (PMOS), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), bipolar CMOS (BiCMOS), silicon-germanium (SiGe), gallium arsenide (GaAs), etc.

[0429] The communication device described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal device, but the scope of the communication device described in this application is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device may vary. Figure 25 The communication device may be a standalone device or part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be:

[0430] (1) Independent integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem;

[0431] (2) A collection of one or more ICs, optionally including storage components for storing data and computer programs;

[0432] (3) ASIC, such as modem;

[0433] (4) Modules that can be embedded in other devices;

[0434] (5) Receivers, terminal equipment, smart terminal equipment, cellular phones, wireless equipment, handheld devices, mobile units, vehicle-mounted equipment, network equipment, cloud equipment, artificial intelligence equipment, etc.

[0435] (6) Others, etc.

[0436] For cases where the communication device can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 26 The diagram shows the structure of the chip. Figure 26 The chip shown includes a processor 2601 and an interface 2602. Optionally, there may be one or more processors 2601 and multiple interfaces 2602.

[0437] Optionally, the chip also includes a memory 2603, which is used to store necessary computer programs and data.

[0438] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the various illustrative logical blocks and steps listed in the embodiments of this application can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Whether such functionality is implemented through hardware or software depends on the specific application and the overall system design requirements. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality using various methods for each specific application, but such implementation should not be construed as exceeding the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application.

[0439] This application also provides a readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a computer, implement the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0440] This application also provides a computer program product that, when executed by a computer, implements the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0441] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs. When the computer program is loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media may be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., high-density digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks (SSDs)).

[0442] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various numerical designations such as "first," "second," etc., involved in this application are merely for the convenience of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application, nor do they indicate the order of sequence.

[0443] At least one in this application can also be described as one or more, and multiple can be two, three, four or more, and this application does not impose any limitation. In the embodiments of this application, for a technical feature, the technical features in that technical feature are distinguished by "first", "second", "third", "A", "B", "C" and "D", and there is no order or size among the technical features described by "first", "second", "third", "A", "B", "C" and "D".

[0444] The correspondences shown in the tables of this application can be configured or predefined. The signal values ​​in each table are merely examples and can be configured to other values; this application is not limiting. When configuring the correspondences between information and parameters, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows of the tables in this application may not be configured. Furthermore, appropriate modifications and adjustments can be made based on the above tables, such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the headings of the above tables can also use other names that the communication device can understand, and the values ​​or representations of the parameters can also be other values ​​or representations that the communication device can understand. In the implementation of the above tables, other data structures can also be used, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear lists, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, or hash tables, etc.

[0445] The term "predefined" in this application can be understood as definition, pre-defined, stored, pre-stored, pre-negotiated, pre-configured, solidified, or pre-burned.

[0446] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm 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.

[0447] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0448] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection 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 this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method of acquiring satellite coverage information, characterized by, The method is executed by a network device and includes: Based on at least one of the capabilities of a user equipment (UE) and a network device, a device entity for acquiring satellite coverage information is determined, wherein the device entity is either a UE or a network device; wherein the capabilities of the UE include the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; and the capabilities of the network device include the network device's ability to acquire satellite coverage information. Wherein, in response to the determined device being a UE, the method further includes: Obtain the management information sent by the UE; the management information is used to manage the UE to maintain a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage and to maintain a network connection state when there is satellite signal coverage; The method further includes: Authorize the management information; In response to authorization approval, the authorized management information is returned to the UE.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The satellite coverage information includes at least one of the first satellite coverage information and the second satellite coverage information; The first satellite coverage information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the satellite signal coverage of the satellite network currently accessed by the UE, and the satellite signal coverage of at least one available satellite network; The second satellite coverage information is used to indicate the satellite signal coverage status of the UE.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the determination that the device entity is a UE, a first indication message is sent to the UE, the first indication message being used to instruct the UE to obtain satellite coverage information.

4. The method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the first satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

5. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: In response to the determination that the device is a network device, the network device acquires the satellite coverage information.

6. The method as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The network device acquires the satellite coverage information, including: Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

7. The method as described in claim 2, 4, or 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second satellite coverage information is determined based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, In response to the determination that the device entity is a UE, the method further includes: Obtain the second satellite coverage information sent by the UE.

9. The method of claim 1, 2, or 5, wherein in response to determining that the device is a network device, the network device acquires the satellite coverage information, comprising: Obtain coverage information from the second satellite.

10. The method as described in any one of claims 2, 7-9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Management information is generated based on the second satellite coverage information, and the management information is sent to the UE.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain second indication information sent by the UE, the second indication information indicating the capabilities of the UE.

12. The method according to any one of claims 2-11, characterized in that, The second satellite coverage information indicates the satellite coverage status of the UE at the specified location.

13. The method according to any one of claims 2-12, characterized in that, The second satellite coverage information includes at least one of the following: The time during which the UE has satellite signal coverage; The duration for which the UE has satellite signal coverage; The time during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage; Duration of time when the UE has no satellite signal coverage.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that, The management information includes at least one of the following: Extended discontinuous reception of eDRX parameters under connection management idle state CM-IDLE; Parameters used to configure MICO mode where only mobile devices initiate connections; Parameters used to configure the power-saving PSM state; The timer duration is set periodically.

15. A method for acquiring satellite coverage information, characterized in that, The method is executed by the user equipment (UE) and includes: Send a second indication message to the network device, the second indication message indicating the capabilities of the UE, the UE's capabilities including: the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information; the second indication message is used by the network device to determine the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, the device subject being the UE or the network device. The method further includes: Send management information to the network device, the management information being used to manage the UE to maintain a power-saving state during periods without satellite signal coverage and to maintain a network connection state during periods with satellite signal coverage; The method further includes: Obtain the authorized management information sent by the network device.

16. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The satellite coverage information includes at least one of the first satellite coverage information and the second satellite coverage information; The first satellite coverage information is used to indicate at least one of the following: the satellite signal coverage of the satellite network currently accessed by the UE, and the satellite signal coverage of at least one available satellite network; The second satellite coverage information is used to indicate the satellite signal coverage status of the UE.

17. The method as described in claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first indication information sent by the network device is obtained, which is used to instruct the UE to obtain satellite coverage information.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15-17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the coverage information of the first satellite.

19. The method as described in claim 16 or 18, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the first satellite coverage information to the network device.

20. The method as claimed in claim 16, 18, or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second satellite coverage information is generated based on at least one of the first satellite coverage information, the UE location, and the UE movement trajectory.

21. The method as described in claim 16 or 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second satellite coverage information is sent to the network device.

22. The method as described in claim 16, 20, or 21, characterized in that, The method further includes: Management information is determined based on the second satellite coverage information.

23. The method according to any one of claims 15-22, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the management information sent by the network device.

24. The method according to any one of claims 16-23, characterized in that, The second satellite coverage information indicates the satellite coverage status of the UE at the specified location.

25. The method according to any one of claims 16-24, characterized in that, The second satellite coverage information includes at least one of the following: The time during which the UE has satellite signal coverage; The duration for which the UE has satellite signal coverage; The time during which the UE has no satellite signal coverage; Duration of time when the UE has no satellite signal coverage.

26. The method according to any one of claims 16-25, characterized in that, The management information includes at least one of the following: Extended discontinuous reception of eDRX parameters under connection management idle state CM-IDLE; Parameters used to configure MICO mode where only mobile devices initiate connections; Parameters used to configure the power-saving PSM state; The timer duration is set periodically.

27. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The processing module is used to determine the device subject for obtaining satellite coverage information based on at least one of the capabilities of the user equipment (UE) and the capabilities of the network equipment; The main body of the device is a UE or a network device; wherein, the capabilities of the UE include: the ability of the UE to acquire satellite coverage information; the capabilities of the network device include: the ability of the network device to acquire satellite coverage information; Wherein, in response to the determined device being a UE, the device is further configured to: Obtain the management information sent by the UE; the management information is used to manage the UE to maintain a power-saving state when there is no satellite signal coverage and to maintain a network connection state when there is satellite signal coverage; The device is also used for: Authorize the management information; In response to authorization approval, the authorized management information is returned to the UE.

28. A communication device, characterized in that, include: The transceiver module is used to send second indication information to the network device. The second indication information indicates the capabilities of the UE, including the UE's ability to acquire satellite coverage information. The second indication information is used by the network device to determine the device subject for acquiring satellite coverage information, wherein the device subject is the UE or the network device. The device is also used for: Send management information to the network device, the management information being used to manage the UE to maintain a power-saving state during periods without satellite signal coverage and to maintain a network connection state during periods with satellite signal coverage; The device is also used for: Obtain the authorized management information sent by the network device.

29. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, or the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 15 to 26.

30. A communication device, characterized in that, include: Processor and interface circuitry, among which The interface circuit is used to acquire code instructions and transmit them to the processor; The processor is configured to execute the code instructions to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, or to execute the code instructions to perform the method as described in any one of claims 15 to 26.

31. A computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 14 to be implemented, or, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 15 to 26 to be implemented.

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