Method and device for implementing core network multiple network number

Abstract

The application discloses a core network multi-network number implementation method and device, and the method comprises the following steps: an AMF synchronizes first parameter information corresponding to a service home public land mobile network (PLMN) supported by the AMF to a base station, wherein the AMF supports at least two service PLMNs, and each service PLMN has corresponding first parameter information. The application can be applied to a core network roaming user access or a scenario in which multiple operators share a set of core network elements and base stations. Through core network element function reconstruction and configuration updating, the core network multi-network number can be implemented without deploying an additional set of core network elements, so that the implementation cost of the core network multi-network number is greatly reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of mobile communication technology, specifically to a method and device for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network. Background Technology

[0002] 5G core network roaming, also known as 5G core network roaming, refers to the use of 5G services by users on the home network in the roaming area by accessing the visited network's 5G network under Standalone (SA) network architecture. In 5G core network roaming, the 5G access networks and core networks of both operators are independently constructed and managed, and users are managed independently.

[0003] Networks providing 5G core network roaming services should offer users data services, voice / video services based on IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), and Short Messaging Service (SMS over IP) (IMS). Both operators providing 5G core network roaming services should provide corresponding services to roaming users based on inter-network roaming protocols.

[0004] In a 5G standalone (SA) network architecture, 5G core network (5GC) roaming uses a home routing approach, meaning that roaming user data returns to the home network, and user services are processed by the home network. The visited network and the home network are connected through a border gateway (BG). The 5G core network roaming network structure under standalone architecture is as follows: Figure 1 As shown. 5G core network roaming supports providing roaming services to multiple operators. Users on different home networks can access their respective independent 5G home core networks by visiting the 5G network of the visiting network provider. The network structure for providing 5G core network roaming to different operators is as follows: Figure 2 As shown. The 5G core network roaming network architecture based on reference points is as follows. Figure 3 As shown. The 5G core network roaming network architecture based on service interfaces is as follows. Figure 4 As shown.

[0005] Currently, one solution for enabling core network roaming between different operators requires operators to deploy an additional set of core network elements to serve users accessing other operators' networks. This significantly increases the network deployment costs for operators, and management and maintenance costs also increase accordingly. Summary of the Invention

[0006] At least one embodiment of the present invention provides a method and device for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network. It can realize multiple network numbers in a core network by modifying and updating the functions and configurations of core network elements, without the need to deploy an additional set of core network elements, thereby greatly reducing the implementation cost of multiple network numbers in a core network.

[0007] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the present invention is implemented as follows:

[0008] In a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network, comprising:

[0009] The Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) synchronizes with the base station the first parameter information corresponding to the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) to which it supports services. The AMF supports at least two PLMNs, and each PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0010] Optionally, the system synchronizes the first parameter information corresponding to the service PLMN it supports with the base station, specifically as follows:

[0011] By establishing a response message through NG, the first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs is sent to the base station. The first parameter information includes: the globally unique AMF identifier GUAMI, and the network number of the serving PLMN.

[0012] Optionally, each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy.

[0013] Optional, also includes:

[0014] The AMF receives a registration request message from the base station for the first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access;

[0015] The AMF determines the first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, and performs access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

[0016] Optionally, the AMF includes at least two AMF instances, each AMF instance corresponding to a service PLMN supported by the AMF; the method further includes:

[0017] After receiving the registration request message from the first terminal, the AMF determines the first AMF instance corresponding to the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access. The first AMF instance then performs access control on the first terminal. During the access control process, the messages sent by the first AMF instance carry information about the first AMF instance.

[0018] Optionally, based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the first terminal belongs, access control is performed on the first terminal, including:

[0019] Based on the first access control policy, determine whether to accept the registration of the first home PLMN terminal, and accept or reject the registration of the first terminal based on the determination result.

[0020] Optionally, some or all of the PLMNs in the at least two service PLMNs are configured with the same or different equivalent EPLMN lists; the method further includes:

[0021] The AMF determines the first equivalent EPLMN list corresponding to the first service PLMN registered by the first terminal, and sends the first equivalent EPLMN list to the first terminal.

[0022] Optional, also includes:

[0023] For each service PLMN supported by the AMF, the network management metrics data corresponding to each service PLMN are statistically analyzed.

[0024] Optional, also includes:

[0025] When the AMF registers its services with the Network Storage Function (NRF), it carries capability information supported by at least two service PLMNs. The capability information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, GUMAI, Tracking Area Identifier (TAI), TAI range, and Single Network Slice Selection Auxiliary Information (S-NSSAI).

[0026] Optionally, it may also include at least one of the following:

[0027] The Session Management Function (SMF) has the capability to support multiple PLMNs. When registering with the NRF, the SMF carries second parameter information supported by each PLMN. The second parameter information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, and TAI range.

[0028] The NRF is configured to support multiple PLMN network numbers. When the NRF receives a service registration message, it performs service management functions based on one or more of the PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI and TAI range information carried in the service registration message.

[0029] When the NRF receives a service discovery request message, it searches for the corresponding target network element in the list of registered PLMNs based on the PLMN carried in the service discovery request message, and returns a service discovery response message to indicate the target network element.

[0030] Optional, also includes:

[0031] The AMF hides its support capability for multiple service PLMNs from the first core network element. When indicating the service PLMN supported by the AMF to the first core network element, it only indicates one designated service PLMN supported by the AMF and its corresponding third parameter information, and does not indicate other service PLMNs other than the designated service PLMN and their corresponding third parameter information. The third parameter information includes at least one of the following: TAI, GUAMI, and S-NSSAI.

[0032] Secondly, embodiments of the present invention provide a method for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network, including:

[0033] The base station receives first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF, synchronized by the AMF, wherein each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0034] Optionally, the first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF, synchronized with the AMF, is received, including:

[0035] The system establishes a response message via NG and receives the first parameter information corresponding to the at least two service PLMNs sent by the AMF. The first parameter information includes: the globally unique AMF identifier GUAMI, and the network number of the service PLMN.

[0036] Thirdly, embodiments of the present invention provide an AMF (Advanced Feature Controller), including a transceiver and a processor, wherein...

[0037] The processor is used to synchronize the first parameter information corresponding to the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) to the base station via the transceiver, wherein the AMF supports at least two serving PLMNs, and each serving PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0038] Fourthly, embodiments of the present invention provide an AMF, comprising: a processor, a memory, and a program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the method described in the first aspect.

[0039] Fifthly, embodiments of the present invention provide a base station, including a transceiver and a processor, wherein,

[0040] The processor is configured to receive, via the transceiver, first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF, synchronized by the AMF, wherein each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0041] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a base station, comprising: a processor, a memory, and a program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the method described in the second aspect.

[0042] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of the present invention provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method described above.

[0043] Compared with existing technologies, the core network multi-number implementation method and device provided in this invention can be applied to scenarios where roaming users access the core network or multiple operators share a set of core network elements and base stations. This invention eliminates the need for an additional set of core network elements in its core network multi-number solution, saving network deployment costs and facilitating network management and maintenance. Furthermore, this invention primarily requires functional modifications to the AMF (Active Network Function), while other network elements only need to be configured based on existing functions to support multi-number capabilities, resulting in low modification complexity. Attached Figure Description

[0044] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings. In the drawings:

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a network structure for roaming in a standalone (SA) 5G core network;

[0046] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a network architecture for providing 5G core network roaming to different operators;

[0047] Figure 3A schematic diagram of a network architecture for 5G core network roaming based on reference points;

[0048] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a network architecture for 5G core network roaming based on service interfaces;

[0049] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating the implementation method of multiple network numbers in the core network according to an embodiment of the present invention applied to the AMF;

[0050] Figure 6 This is an example diagram of the first parameter information corresponding to the AMF and the base station synchronization service PLMN in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the implementation method of multiple network numbers in the core network according to an embodiment of the present invention when applied to a base station;

[0052] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an AMF according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of AMF according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a base station according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of AMF according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of AMF according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a base station according to another embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0058] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that the invention may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of the invention and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0059] The terms “first,” “second,” etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having,” and any variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus. The terms “and / or” in the specification and claims indicate at least one of the connected objects.

[0060] Currently, core network roaming scenarios employ a quasi-international roaming scheme, but the actual application scenarios fall under domestic roaming, which is fundamentally different from international roaming. In international roaming scenarios, for example, if a user of Chinese operator A roams in the United States, local base stations in the US only broadcast the network ID of the US operator; operator A's own network ID does not exist, and this ID is not on the terminal's Forbidden Public Land Mobile Network (FPLMN) list. Provided the operators of both countries have signed a roaming agreement, the user can access services from the US operator's base station and utilize the international roaming scheme.

[0061] In domestic roaming scenarios, base stations belonging to operators A, B, and C simultaneously broadcast the network codes of all three operators within China. To prevent interference from other operators' broadcast network codes for users of the same network, the Subscriber Identity Modules (SIM cards) of all three operators include the network codes of the other two operators in their FPLMN lists, thus prohibiting terminal access. Under this premise, if users of operators B / C want to access operator A's base station in areas without their own network signal through the core network roaming scheme, there are two possible solutions:

[0062] 1) When operator A's base station broadcasts operator A's network number (e.g., network number 1), and users of operator B / C change their SIM cards, network number 1 is removed from the FPLMN list.

[0063] 2) In addition to broadcasting the network number of operator A, the base station of operator A also needs to broadcast a new network number that is not in the SIM card FPLMN list of operator B / C, such as network number 2.

[0064] From a user experience perspective, switching SIM cards is inconvenient, so Solution 1 was not adopted, and Solution 2 was adopted as the final solution for the current network. However, from the operator's perspective, Solution 2 also introduced the issue of the core network supporting multiple network numbers.

[0065] To address the aforementioned requirements, based on existing technologies, the issue of core network support for multiple network numbers can be resolved through the following solution: An operator (e.g., Operator A) needs to deploy an additional set of core network elements, including Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), Network Repository Function (NRF), and Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF), to support network number 2 as the home HPLMN, serving roaming users of other operators (e.g., Operators B / C). Existing core network elements will continue to support network number 1 as the HPLMN, serving Operator A's own network users.

[0066] Although the above solution does not involve the transformation of network element functions, it requires the deployment of a new set of core network elements for core network roaming across different networks. This will introduce additional network deployment costs, and at the same time, the network management and maintenance costs will also increase significantly.

[0067] To address the aforementioned issues, this invention proposes a method for implementing multiple network numbers in the core network. This method can support roaming users' access to the core network by modifying and updating the functions and configurations of existing core network elements, without requiring the deployment of an additional set of core network elements, thus significantly reducing the implementation cost of core network roaming. This method is applicable to networks including 5G SA.

[0068] Please refer to Figure 5 The present invention provides a method for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network, which, when applied to an AMF (Advanced Feature Formatting Component), includes:

[0069] Step 51: The AMF synchronizes the first parameter information corresponding to the service PLMN it supports with the base station. The AMF supports at least two service PLMNs, and each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0070] Here, the AMF sends the first parameter information of at least two supported service PLMNs to the base station. The base station can broadcast the network numbers of all or some of the at least two service PLMNs for terminal access. Optionally, the at least two service PLMNs are not equivalent PLMNs.

[0071] Through the above steps, this embodiment of the invention enhances the functionality of the AMF, enabling it to support at least two service PLMNs. These service PLMNs each have their own corresponding first parameter information, which specifically may include: a globally unique AMF Identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the service PLMN. That is, different service PLMNs correspond to different GUAMIs, and different service PLMNs also correspond to different network numbers.

[0072] Through the above steps, this embodiment of the invention enhances the functionality of the AMF, enabling it to support multiple service PLMNs, each with its own corresponding first parameter information, thereby realizing a solution for multiple network numbers in the core network.

[0073] like Figure 6 As shown in this embodiment of the invention, the AMF can send the first parameter information corresponding to the service PLMN it supports to the base station during the process of establishing an NG connection with the base station. For example, the AMF can send the first parameter information corresponding to the at least two service PLMNs to the base station through an NG establishment response message (NG SETUPRESPONSE).

[0074] Here, there are multiple ways to send the first parameter information corresponding to the at least two service PLMNs. For example, the GUAMI and PLMN network number corresponding to each service PLMN can be sent separately, that is, the GUAMI and PLMN network number corresponding to each service PLMN can be sent as a set of parameters. Taking two service PLMNs as an example, (GUAMI1, PLMN1) and (GUAMI2, PLMN2) can be sent. Another example is that the GUAMIs corresponding to all service PLMNs and the PLMN network numbers corresponding to all service PLMNs can be sent. For example, a Served GUAMI Item and a PLMN Support Item can be sent, where the Served GUAMI Item includes GUAMI1 and GUAMI2, and the PLMN Support Item includes PLMN1 and PLMN2.

[0075] In this embodiment of the invention, to achieve differentiated access control, each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy. Specifically, different service PLMNs may have the same or different access control policies.

[0076] Furthermore, the AMF can receive a registration request message from the base station for a first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first serving PLMN to which the first terminal requests access. Then, the AMF determines the first access control policy corresponding to the first serving PLMN based on the first serving PLMN requested by the first terminal, and performs access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the first terminal belongs.

[0077] Here, the AMF can determine whether to accept the registration of the terminal of the first home PLMN based on the first access control policy, and accept or reject the registration of the first terminal based on the determination result.

[0078] For example, when the first terminal accesses the first serving PLMN, if the first access control policy corresponding to the first serving PLMN does not allow the terminal of the first home PLMN to access, the AMF will reject the registration request of the first terminal. Conversely, if the first access control policy allows the terminal of the first home PLMN to access, the AMF can accept the registration request of the first terminal and continue the subsequent Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session establishment process.

[0079] As one implementation, embodiments of the present invention can generate an AMF instance for each service PLMN supported by the AMF. That is, each AMF instance corresponds to a service PLMN supported by the AMF. The AMF instance presented externally by the AMF is determined based on the PLMN network number accessed by the terminal. For example, after receiving a registration request message from the first terminal, the AMF determines the first AMF instance corresponding to the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access. Then, the first AMF instance performs access control on the first terminal. During the access control process, the messages sent by the first AMF instance carry information about the first AMF instance, thus presenting this first AMF instance externally. Specifically, the information of the first AMF instance may include at least one of the following: the network number of the service PLMN corresponding to the first AMF instance, GUAMI, Tracking Area Identity (TAI), Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI), etc.

[0080] In this embodiment of the invention, an equivalent Public Land Mobile Network (EPLMN) list can also be configured for the serving PLMN. The EPLMN list includes one or more equivalent PLMNs. It should be noted that the EPLMN list can be flexibly configured. For example, no EPLMN list may be configured for any serving PLMN, or EPLMN lists may be configured for some or all of the serving PLMNs of the AMF. The EPLMN lists configured for different serving PLMNs may be the same or different; this embodiment of the invention does not specifically limit this. The AMF can also determine the first equivalent EPLMN list corresponding to the first serving PLMN based on the first serving PLMN registered by the first terminal, and send the first equivalent EPLMN list to the first terminal. Of course, the AMF may also choose not to send the first equivalent EPLMN list to the first terminal.

[0081] After introducing multiple service PLMNs, this embodiment of the invention can statistically analyze the network management metrics data corresponding to each service PLMN supported by the AMF. These network management metrics data include latency, packet loss rate, etc.

[0082] In addition, the AMF in this embodiment of the invention also needs to register services with the NRF. When registering services, the AMF can carry the capability information supported by the at least two service PLMNs in the service registration message. The capability information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, GUMAI, TAI, TAI range, S-NSSAI, etc.

[0083] After introducing the AMF's support capability for multiple serving PLMNs, the SMF in the core network can also introduce the support capability for multiple PLMNs. At this time, the SMF has the support capability for multiple PLMNs, and when the SMF registers with the NRF, it can carry the second parameter information supported by each PLMN in the service registration message. The second parameter information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, TAI range, etc.

[0084] Similarly, the NRF can also be configured to support multiple PLMN network numbers. In this way, when the NRF receives a service registration message from other core network elements (such as AMF, SMF, etc.), it performs service management functions based on one or more of the information carried in the service registration message, including PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, and TAI range.

[0085] In addition, when the NRF receives a service discovery request message from other core network elements (such as AMF, SMF, etc.), it can search for the corresponding target network element in the list of registered PLMNs based on the PLMN carried in the service discovery request message, and return a service discovery response message to instruct the target network element.

[0086] In some scenarios, the AMF may wish to hide its support for multiple service PLMNs from certain core network elements. For example, the AMF may hide its support for multiple service PLMNs from a first core network element. In this case, when instructing the first core network element on the service PLMNs it supports, the AMF only indicates one designated service PLMN and its corresponding third parameter information, excluding other service PLMNs and their corresponding third parameter information. The third parameter information includes at least one of the following: TAI, GUAMI, S-NSSAI, etc. Here, the first core network element can be pre-configured and may consist of one or more elements. The designated service PLMN can also be pre-configured; specifically, it may be one of the multiple service PLMNs supported by the AMF.

[0087] Please refer to Figure 7 The method for implementing multiple network numbers in the core network provided in this embodiment of the invention, when applied to the base station side, includes:

[0088] Step 71: The base station receives the first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF synchronized by the AMF, wherein each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0089] Here, the base station can establish a response message via NG to receive first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs sent by the AMF. Specifically, the first parameter information may include: GUAMI and the network number of the serving PLMN. Furthermore, different serving PLMNs may correspond to different GUAMIs, and different serving PLMNs may also correspond to different network numbers.

[0090] Through the above steps, this embodiment of the invention enhances the functionality of the AMF, enabling it to support multiple serving PLMNs, and synchronizes the first parameter information corresponding to the serving PLMNs supported by the AMF to the base station. In this way, the base station can broadcast the network number of one or more of the at least two serving PLMNs for terminal access, thereby realizing a core network multi-network number solution.

[0091] As can be seen from the above description, the AMF network element in this embodiment supports multiple network numbers that can be used for base station broadcasting, and performs differentiated access control based on different access network numbers. Here, the multiple network numbers can be multiple network numbers from one operator, or network numbers from different operators.

[0092] The above method will be illustrated below using a specific operator, A, as an example.

[0093] 1) Assume that Operator A's AMF currently supports multiple service PLMNs (e.g., network number 1, network number 3, and network number 4), but can only support one service PLMN for radio broadcasting (e.g., network number 1). These service PLMNs are all equivalent. To support core network roaming, in this example, the AMF needs to support multiple service PLMNs, and multiple service PLMNs for radio broadcasting (e.g., network number 1 and network number 2), and network number 1 and network number 2 are not equivalent, i.e., they are not EPLMNs. When the AMF and the radio side interact via NGSETUP messages, the AMF's support capabilities for network number 1 and network number 2 are synchronized to the radio. During synchronization, the first parameter information corresponding to these two network numbers, such as the network number of the GUAMI and PLMN, can be sent.

[0094] 2) In existing technologies, the local configuration of the AMF related to the local PLMN can only involve one PLMN. The AMF carries this PLMN information on each interface, and the GUAMI also contains this PLMN information, such as network number 1. To support core network roaming, the AMF in this example can be virtualized into two (or more) AMF instances. One AMF instance is configured with network number 1 for its local PLMN, and the other AMF instance is configured with network number 2 for its local PLMN, thus providing services to users of two (or more) PLMNs respectively.

[0095] 3) Building upon the multi-network number support capability mentioned in point 1, the AMF further enhances its ability to support differentiated access control through different access network numbers. It determines the access control logic based on the combination of the user's PLMN (such as the PLMN in SUPI) and the access PLMN. For example, if a user from operator B or C accesses the network through network number 1 broadcast from operator A's base station, the AMF can deny access; if they access through network number 2 broadcast from operator A's base station, the AMF can allow access. Similarly, for a user roaming into the US, if they access through network number 1 broadcast from operator A's base station, the AMF allows access; if they access through network number 2 broadcast from operator A's base station, the AMF denies access.

[0096] 4) Building upon the multi-network number support capability mentioned in point 1, the AMF further enhances its support for configuring different EPLMN lists based on different access network numbers, and distributes Equivalent PLMNs to the user terminal (UE) in the registration acceptance message and registration update response message in the 5G network. For example, if users of operators B and C access the network through network number 2 broadcast by operator A's base station, the AMF will not distribute an EPLMN list; if users roaming into the US access the network through network number 3 broadcast by operator A's base station, the AMF will distribute an EPLMN list carrying network number 1.

[0097] 5) Based on the ability to support multiple service PLMN network numbers mentioned in 1, this example can achieve multi-dimensional indicator statistics from the network management level and the operator's indicator analysis and statistics level, based on different access PLMNs.

[0098] 6) After adding configuration support for multiple service PLMN network numbers, AMF should include a list of supported PLMNs (e.g., network number 1, network number 2), the TAI of multiple PLMNs, and the S-NSSAI of multiple PLMNs when registering services with NRF, but should not include the DNN OI. It should also support users accessing the service from different network numbers. (This is only a configuration addition and does not involve any innovation.)

[0099] In this example, the following configurations may be added for other network elements:

[0100] 1) SMF network elements should support the configuration of multiple network numbers. When registering services with NRF, they should carry a list of supported PLMNs (such as network number 1, network number 2), TAI of multiple PLMNs, S-NSSAI of multiple PLMNs, etc., but should not carry DNN OI. They should also support users accessing the network with different network numbers.

[0101] 2) NRF network element configuration supports multiple network number capabilities, and can handle parameters such as multiple PLMN lists, multiple PLMN TAIs, and multiple PLMN S-NSSAIs carried during network element service registration, and correctly execute service management functions such as NF instance registration, update, deregistration, NF / service status subscription and notification, and NF / service status desubscription.

[0102] In this example, for core network roaming scenarios, multiple network numbers actually serve the same operator. Under this premise, operators can consider the AMF's multiple network number hiding function to avoid affecting the configuration of SMF and NRF. For example, when the AMF hides multiple network numbers externally, regardless of whether the user accesses through network number 1 or network number 2, the AMF only reflects network number 1 to other core network elements (such as SMF, NRF, NSSF). However, considering authentication requirements, the AMF should reflect the real access network number for the Authentication Server Function (AUSF), that is, network number 2 should be reflected in the user access scenarios of operators B and C.

[0103] In summary, in the above methods of this invention, the AMF configures multiple broadcast service PLMNs, GUAMIs, and other parameters, and the PLMN selected based on the radio access carries the corresponding discovery parameters during service discovery. The base station broadcasts multiple network numbers. In scenarios connecting to the same AMF, the AMF can support differentiated access control capabilities based on the network number of the user's access, ensuring that users with specific number segments are only allowed to access through the first designated network number (e.g., network number 2), while other roaming users across different networks are only allowed to access through the second designated network number. Furthermore, the AMF of this invention supports configuring and distributing EPLMN lists based on PLMNs of different radio access networks. It can also not hide multiple network numbers when facing AUSF or AUSF and UDM (i.e., displaying network number 1 and network number 2), but hide multiple network numbers when facing other network elements (i.e., only displaying network number 1), thereby improving configuration flexibility and reducing the configuration workload of network elements such as SMF and NRF. The core network multi-network number implementation scheme of this invention does not require the deployment of an additional core network element, thus saving network deployment costs and facilitating network management and maintenance. In addition, the main modification of the AMF in this embodiment of the invention is to make functional changes. Other network elements only need to add configurations based on the existing functions to support the multi-network number capability. The modification complexity of this solution is low.

[0104] The various methods of the embodiments of the present invention have been described above. Apparatus for implementing the above methods will now be provided.

[0105] Please refer to Figure 8 This invention also provides an AMF 800, comprising:

[0106] The first synchronization module 801 is used to synchronize the first parameter information corresponding to the public land mobile network (PLMN) to which it supports the base station. The AMF supports at least two serving PLMNs, and each serving PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0107] Optionally, the first synchronization module is further configured to send first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs to the base station via an NG establishment response message. The first parameter information includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the serving PLMN.

[0108] Optionally, each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy.

[0109] Optionally, the AMF further includes:

[0110] The first receiving module is used to receive a registration request message from the base station for the first terminal, wherein the registration request message carries the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access.

[0111] The first control module is configured to determine the first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, and to perform access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

[0112] Optionally, the AMF includes at least two AMF instances, each AMF instance corresponding to a service PLMN supported by the AMF; the first control module is further configured to:

[0113] After receiving the registration request message from the first terminal, the first AMF instance corresponding to the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access is determined. The first AMF instance then performs access control on the first terminal. During the access control process, the messages sent by the first AMF instance carry information about the first AMF instance.

[0114] Optionally, the first control module is further configured to determine whether to accept the registration of the first home PLMN terminal according to the first access control policy, and to accept or reject the registration of the first terminal according to the determination result.

[0115] Optionally, some or all of the PLMNs in the at least two service PLMNs are configured with the same or different equivalent EPLMN lists; the AMF further includes:

[0116] The first sending module is configured to determine the first equivalent EPLMN list corresponding to the first service PLMN registered by the first terminal, and send the first equivalent EPLMN list to the first terminal.

[0117] Optionally, the AMF further includes:

[0118] The statistics module is used to collect network management indicator data for each service PLMN supported by the AMF.

[0119] Optionally, the AMF further includes:

[0120] The registration module is used to carry capability information supported by at least two service PLMNs when registering services with the Network Storage Function (NRF). The capability information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, GUMAI, Tracking Area Identifier (TAI), TAI range, and Single Network Slice Selection Auxiliary Information (S-NSSAI).

[0121] Optionally, the core network in which the AMF resides also includes at least one of the following network elements:

[0122] An SMF with the ability to support multiple PLMNs, wherein when the SMF registers with the NRF, it carries second parameter information for each PLMN, the second parameter information including at least one of the following: PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, TAI range;

[0123] An NRF with the capability to support multiple PLMN network numbers, wherein, when the NRF receives a service registration message, it performs service management functions based on one or more of the information carried in the service registration message, including PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, and TAI range;

[0124] When the NRF receives a service discovery request message, it searches for the corresponding target network element in the list of registered PLMNs based on the PLMN carried in the service discovery request message, and returns a service discovery response message to indicate the target network element.

[0125] Optionally, the AMF further includes:

[0126] The hiding processing module is used to hide the AMF's support capability for multiple service PLMNs from the first core network element. When indicating the service PLMN supported by the AMF to the first core network element, it only indicates one designated service PLMN supported by the AMF and its corresponding third parameter information to the first core network element, and does not indicate other service PLMNs other than the designated service PLMN and their corresponding third parameter information; wherein, the third parameter information includes at least one of the following: TAI, GUAMI, S-NSSAI.

[0127] It should be noted that the device in this embodiment is the same as the one described above. Figure 5The devices corresponding to the methods shown are all applicable to the embodiments of the above-described devices, and can achieve the same technical effects. The devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above-described method embodiments and can achieve the same technical effects. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiments and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0128] Please refer to Figure 9 The present invention also provides an AMF 900, comprising: a transceiver 901 and a processor 902;

[0129] The processor 902 is used to synchronize the first parameter information corresponding to the service home public land mobile network (PLMN) it supports to the base station through the transceiver 901, wherein the AMF supports at least two service PLMNs, and each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0130] Optionally, the processor is further configured to establish a response message via NG and send first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs to the base station. The first parameter information includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the serving PLMN.

[0131] Optionally, each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy.

[0132] Optionally, the processor is further configured to:

[0133] The system receives a registration request message from a base station for a first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access.

[0134] Based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, a first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN is determined, and access control is performed on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

[0135] Optionally, the AMF includes at least two AMF instances, each AMF instance corresponding to a service PLMN supported by the AMF; the processor is further configured to:

[0136] After receiving the registration request message from the first terminal, the first AMF instance corresponding to the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access is determined. The first AMF instance then performs access control on the first terminal. During the access control process, the messages sent by the first AMF instance carry information about the first AMF instance.

[0137] Optionally, the processor is further configured to determine whether to accept the registration of the first home PLMN terminal based on the first access control policy, and to accept or reject the registration of the first terminal based on the determination result.

[0138] Optionally, some or all of the at least two service PLMNs are configured with the same or different equivalent EPLMN lists; the processor is further configured to determine the first equivalent EPLMN list corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN registered by the first terminal, and send the first equivalent EPLMN list to the first terminal.

[0139] Optionally, the processor is further configured to statistically analyze the network management metrics data corresponding to each service PLMN supported by the AMF.

[0140] Optionally, the processor is further configured to carry capability information supported by the at least two service PLMNs when registering services with the Network Storage Function (NRF), the capability information including at least one of the following: PLMN, GUMAI, Tracking Area Identifier (TAI), TAI range, and Single Network Slice Selection Auxiliary Information (S-NSSAI).

[0141] Optionally, the core network in which the AMF resides also includes at least one of the following network elements:

[0142] An SMF with the ability to support multiple PLMNs, wherein when the SMF registers with the NRF, it carries second parameter information for each PLMN, the second parameter information including at least one of the following: PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, TAI range;

[0143] An NRF with the capability to support multiple PLMN network numbers, wherein, when the NRF receives a service registration message, it performs service management functions based on one or more of the information carried in the service registration message, including PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, and TAI range;

[0144] When the NRF receives a service discovery request message, it searches for the corresponding target network element in the list of registered PLMNs based on the PLMN carried in the service discovery request message, and returns a service discovery response message to indicate the target network element.

[0145] Optionally, the processor is further configured to hide the AMF's support capability for multiple service PLMNs from the first core network element. When indicating the service PLMN supported by the AMF to the first core network element, the processor only indicates one designated service PLMN supported by the AMF and its corresponding third parameter information to the first core network element, and does not indicate other service PLMNs other than the designated service PLMN and their corresponding third parameter information. The third parameter information includes at least one of the following: TAI, GUAMI, and S-NSSAI.

[0146] It should be noted that the device in this embodiment is the same as the one described above. Figure 5 The devices corresponding to the methods shown are all applicable to the embodiments of the above-described devices, and can achieve the same technical effects. The devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above-described method embodiments and can achieve the same technical effects. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiments and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0147] Please refer to Figure 10 This invention also provides a base station 1000, comprising:

[0148] The first receiving module 1001 is used to receive first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF that are synchronized by the AMF, wherein each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0149] Optionally, the first receiving module is further configured to establish a response message via NG and receive first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs sent by the AMF. The first parameter information includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the serving PLMN.

[0150] Optionally, the base station further includes:

[0151] The broadcast module is used to broadcast the network number of one or more of the at least two serving PLMNs.

[0152] It should be noted that the device in this embodiment is the same as the one described above. Figure 7 The devices corresponding to the methods shown are all applicable to the embodiments of the above-described devices, and can achieve the same technical effects. The devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above-described method embodiments and can achieve the same technical effects. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiments and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0153] Please refer to Figure 11The present invention also provides a network device 1100, including: a transceiver 1101 and a processor 1102;

[0154] The processor 1102 is used to receive, via the transceiver 1101, first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF that are synchronized by the AMF, wherein each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information.

[0155] Optionally, the processor is further configured to establish a response message via NG and receive first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs sent by the AMF, wherein the first parameter information includes: a globally unique AMF identifier GUAMI, and the network number of the serving PLMN.

[0156] Optionally, the processor is also configured to broadcast the network number of one or more of the at least two serving PLMNs.

[0157] It should be noted that the device in this embodiment is the same as the one described above. Figure 7 The devices corresponding to the methods shown are all applicable to the embodiments of the above-described devices, and can achieve the same technical effects. The devices provided by the embodiments of the present invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above-described method embodiments and can achieve the same technical effects. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiments and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0158] Please refer to Figure 12 The present invention also provides an AMF 1200, including a processor 1201, a memory 1202, and a computer program stored in the memory 1202 and executable on the processor 1201. When the computer program is executed by the processor 1201, it implements the various processes of the above-described implementation method embodiment of the core network multiple network number by the AMF and can achieve the same technical effect. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0159] Please refer to Figure 13 The present invention also provides a base station 1300, including a processor 1301, a memory 1302, and a computer program stored in the memory 1302 and executable on the processor 1301. When the computer program is executed by the processor 1301, it implements the various processes of the above-described implementation method embodiment of the core network multi-network number by the base station and can achieve the same technical effect. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here.

[0160] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program. When executed by a processor, the computer program implements the various processes of the above-described core network multi-network number implementation method embodiments and achieves the same technical effects. To avoid repetition, it will not be described again here. The computer-readable storage medium may be a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0161] It should be noted that, in this document, the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Unless otherwise specified, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes that element.

[0162] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that the methods of the above embodiments can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Of course, they can also be implemented by hardware, but in many cases the former is a better implementation method. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present invention, or the part that contributes to the prior art, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium (such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk) and includes several instructions to cause a terminal (which may be a mobile phone, computer, server, air conditioner, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments of the present invention.

[0163] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative and not restrictive. Those skilled in the art can make many other forms under the guidance of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims, and all of these forms are within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network, characterized in that, include: The Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) synchronizes with the base station the first parameter information corresponding to the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) to which it supports services. The AMF supports at least two serving PLMNs, and each serving PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information, which includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the serving PLMN. The AMF supports the ability to implement differentiated access control through different access network numbers. Each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy. The AMF receives a registration request message from the base station for the first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access; The AMF determines the first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, and performs access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Synchronize the first parameter information corresponding to the service PLMN supported by itself with the base station, specifically: The response message is established via NG, and the first parameter information corresponding to the at least two serving PLMNs is sent to the base station.

3. The method as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The AMF includes at least two AMF instances, each AMF instance corresponding to a service PLMN supported by the AMF; the method further includes: After receiving the registration request message from the first terminal, the AMF determines the first AMF instance corresponding to the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access. The first AMF instance then performs access control on the first terminal. During the access control process, the messages sent by the first AMF instance carry information about the first AMF instance.

4. The method as described in claim 3, characterized in that, Based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the first terminal belongs, access control is performed on the first terminal, including: Based on the first access control policy, determine whether to accept the registration of the first home PLMN terminal, and accept or reject the registration of the first terminal based on the determination result.

5. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Some or all of the PLMNs in the at least two service PLMNs are configured with the same or different equivalent EPLMN lists; the method further includes: The AMF determines the first equivalent EPLMN list corresponding to the first service PLMN registered by the first terminal, and sends the first equivalent EPLMN list to the first terminal.

6. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: For each service PLMN supported by the AMF, the network management metrics data corresponding to each service PLMN are statistically analyzed.

7. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: When the AMF registers its services with the Network Storage Function (NRF), it carries capability information supported by at least two service PLMNs. The capability information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, GUMAI, Tracking Area Identifier (TAI), TAI range, and Single Network Slice Selection Auxiliary Information (S-NSSAI).

8. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes at least one of the following: The Session Management Function (SMF) has the capability to support multiple PLMNs. When registering with the NRF, the SMF carries second parameter information supported by each PLMN. The second parameter information includes at least one of the following: PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI, and TAI range. The NRF is configured to support multiple PLMN network numbers. When the NRF receives a service registration message, it performs service management functions based on one or more of the PLMN, S-NSSAI, TAI and TAI range information carried in the service registration message. When the NRF receives a service discovery request message, it searches for the corresponding target network element in the list of registered PLMNs based on the PLMN carried in the service discovery request message, and returns a service discovery response message to indicate the target network element.

9. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: The AMF hides its support capability for multiple service PLMNs from the first core network element. When indicating the service PLMN supported by the AMF to the first core network element, it only indicates one designated service PLMN supported by the AMF and its corresponding third parameter information, and does not indicate other service PLMNs other than the designated service PLMN and their corresponding third parameter information. The third parameter information includes at least one of the following: TAI, GUAMI, and S-NSSAI.

10. A method for implementing multiple network numbers in a core network, characterized in that, include: The base station receives first parameter information corresponding to at least two serving PLMNs supported by the AMF, synchronized by the AMF. Each serving PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information, which includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the serving PLMN. The AMF supports the ability to implement differentiated access control through different access network numbers. Each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy. The AMF receives a registration request message from the base station for the first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access; The AMF determines the first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, and performs access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

11. The method as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Receive first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF, synchronized by the AMF, including: The system establishes a response message via NG and receives the first parameter information corresponding to the at least two service PLMNs sent by the AMF.

12. An AMF, characterized in that, Includes transceivers and processors, among which, The processor is configured to synchronize, via the transceiver, the first parameter information corresponding to the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) to which it supports service ownership with the base station. The AMF supports at least two serving PLMNs, each with its own corresponding first parameter information, which includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the serving PLMN. The AMF supports the ability to implement differentiated access control through different access network numbers. Each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy. The AMF receives a registration request message from the base station for the first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access; The AMF determines the first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, and performs access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

13. An AMF, characterized in that, include: A processor, a memory, and a program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the program, when executed by the processor, implements the steps of the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9.

14. A base station, characterized in that, Includes transceivers and processors, among which, The processor is configured to receive, via the transceiver, first parameter information corresponding to at least two service PLMNs supported by the AMF, synchronized by the AMF. The first parameter information includes: a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) and the network number of the service PLMN, wherein each service PLMN has its own corresponding first parameter information; the AMF supports the ability to implement differentiated access control through different access network numbers. Each service PLMN has its own corresponding access control policy. The AMF receives a registration request message from the base station for the first terminal, the registration request message carrying the network number of the first service PLMN that the first terminal requests to access; The AMF determines the first access control policy corresponding to the first service PLMN based on the first service PLMN requested by the first terminal, and performs access control on the first terminal based on the first access control policy and the first home PLMN to which the user of the first terminal belongs.

15. A base station, characterized in that, include: A processor, a memory, and a program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the program, when executed by the processor, performs the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 10 to 11.

16. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11.

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