Access and mobility policy parameter updating method and apparatus, device, and storage medium

Abstract

This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium for updating access and mobility policy parameters, relating to the field of communication technology. The method includes: when a user terminal switches to a new network system, starting a timer, wherein the user terminal remains in the new network system for the update duration of the timer; and updating the access and mobility policy parameters after the timer reaches its update duration. This method does not modify the existing network architecture and processes; by simply setting a timer, it can maintain the temporary stability of the user terminal in the new network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a method, apparatus, device and storage medium for updating access and mobility policy parameters. Background Technology

[0002] The RFSP Index (Radio Access Type Frequency Selection Priority Index) is a crucial parameter used by the core network to manage radio resources. Base stations can configure local radio resource policies based on the RFSP Index issued by the core network, enabling user terminals to seamlessly switch between different frequencies or access technologies, such as 5G and 4G. However, during the handover process, users sometimes experience intermittent switching between 4G and 5G networks.

[0003] It should be noted that the information disclosed in the background section above is only used to enhance the understanding of the background of this disclosure, and therefore may include information that does not constitute prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, device, and storage medium that at least partially solves the problem of continuous switching that sometimes occurs during the attachment and switching process of user terminals between different frequencies or access technologies in related technologies.

[0005] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, or may be learned in part from practice of this disclosure.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method for updating access and mobility policy parameters is provided, the method comprising:

[0007] When a user terminal switches to a new network system, a timer is started, and the user terminal remains in the new network system for the duration of the timer's update.

[0008] After the timer reaches the update duration, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated.

[0009] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when the user terminal access system is switching from 5G to 4G, the method is applied to the MME; when the user terminal access system is switching from 4G to 5G, the method is applied to the AMF.

[0010] In one embodiment of this disclosure, access and mobility policy parameters include a Radio Frequency Selection Priority Index (RFSP Index).

[0011] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when the method is applied to the AMF, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on at least one of the following data:

[0012] User's subscription data, local configuration information, and dynamic policies of the policy control function network element PCF.

[0013] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when the method is applied to the AMF, the update duration is one of the following durations:

[0014] The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration is preset in the AMF, and a third duration is preset in the Mobility Management Node Functional Element (MME).

[0015] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the priority order of the update duration values ​​is as follows:

[0016] The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration preset in the AMF, and a third duration preset in the MME;

[0017] The third duration is transmitted from the MME to the AMF via the N26 interface.

[0018] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when the method is applied to the AMF and the PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, the value of the update duration is the value of the first duration;

[0019] When the method is applied to AMF, and PCF does not set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, but AMF has a preset second duration, the value of the update duration is the value of the second duration.

[0020] When the method is applied to the AMF, and the PCF does not set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters and there is no preset second duration in the AMF, it receives the third duration transmitted by the MME through the N26 interface, and the value of the updated duration is adopted from the value of the third duration.

[0021] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when the method is applied to the MME, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on at least one of the following data:

[0022] User's contract data and local configuration information.

[0023] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when the method is applied to the MME, the update duration is one of the following durations:

[0024] The second duration is preset in AMF, and the third duration is preset in MME.

[0025] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the method further includes:

[0026] The RFSP Index and fourth duration transmitted by the AMF are received through the N26 interface. The update duration adopts the value of the fourth duration, which is the value of the first duration set by the PCF when configuring access and mobility policy parameters or the value of the second duration preset in the AMF.

[0027] The step of updating the access and mobility policy parameters after the timer reaches its update duration includes:

[0028] After the timer reaches the fourth duration, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on the RFSP Index transmitted by the AMF.

[0029] In one embodiment of this disclosure, when there is no N26 interface between the AMF and the MME, the update duration uses the value of a third duration.

[0030] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an access and mobility policy parameter updating apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising:

[0031] The timer module starts a timer when the user terminal switches to a new network system, and the user terminal remains in the new network system for the timer's update duration.

[0032] The parameter update module is used to update the access and mobility policy parameters after the timer reaches the update duration.

[0033] According to another aspect of this disclosure, an electronic device is provided, comprising: a processor; and a memory for storing executable instructions of the processor; wherein the processor is configured to perform the above-described access and mobility policy parameter update method by executing the executable instructions.

[0034] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the above-described access and mobility policy parameter update method.

[0035] The access and mobility policy parameter update method provided in the embodiments of this disclosure first determines whether the access and mobility policy parameters of the user terminal need to be updated based on the current network environment and the user terminal's subscription data. Then, when the access and mobility policy parameters of the user terminal need to be updated, a timer is started, and the access and mobility policy parameters are updated after the timer reaches the update duration. This method does not modify the existing network architecture and processes. By simply setting the timer, the temporary stability of the user terminal in the new network can be maintained.

[0036] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0037] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0038] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a network system according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating an access and mobility policy parameter update method in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating the judgment process of the executing entity in this embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 4 This disclosure includes a schematic diagram of the 4G to 5G switching process in an embodiment.

[0042] Figure 5 This disclosure includes a schematic diagram illustrating the 5G to 4G switching process in an embodiment.

[0043] Figure 6 This embodiment of the present disclosure illustrates the process of selecting the update duration when the AMF executes the access and mobility policy parameter update method;

[0044] Figure 7 This embodiment of the present disclosure illustrates the process of selecting the update duration when the MME executes the access and mobility policy parameter update method;

[0045] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an access and mobility policy parameter update device is provided in this embodiment; and

[0046] Figure 9 A structural block diagram of a computer device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0047] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, they are provided so that this disclosure will be more comprehensive and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art. The described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0048] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings are merely illustrative of this disclosure and are not necessarily drawn to scale. The same reference numerals in the drawings denote the same or similar parts, and therefore repeated descriptions of them will be omitted. Some block diagrams shown in the drawings are functional entities and do not necessarily correspond to physically or logically independent entities. These functional entities may be implemented in software, in one or more hardware modules or integrated circuits, or in different network and / or processor devices and / or microcontroller devices.

[0049] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture applicable to the methods provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. For example... Figure 1 As shown, this network architecture can be, for example, a non-roaming architecture. Specifically, this network architecture may include the following network elements:

[0050] 1. Terminal Equipment (UE): can also be called user equipment, terminal, access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device.

[0051] The UE can also be a cellular phone, cordless phone, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phone, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) station, Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle device, wearable device, terminal device in a 5G network, or terminal device in a future evolved Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), etc. It can also be an end device, logical entity, smart device, such as a mobile phone, smart terminal, or other terminal device; or a server, gateway, base station, controller, or other communication device; or an Internet of Things (IoT) device, such as a sensor, electricity meter, water meter, etc. This disclosure does not limit this aspect.

[0052] 2. Access Network (AN): Provides network access for authorized users in a specific area and can use transmission tunnels of different quality depending on the user's level and service requirements. Access networks can employ different access technologies.

[0053] There are currently two types of wireless access technologies: 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) access technologies (such as those used in 3G, 4G, or 5G systems) and non-3GPP access technologies.

[0054] 3GPP access technology refers to access technology that conforms to 3GPP standards and specifications. Access networks that use 3GPP access technology are called Radio Access Networks (RAN). In 5G systems, access network equipment is called next-generation node base stations (gNBs).

[0055] Non-3GPP access technologies refer to access technologies that do not conform to 3GPP standards and specifications, such as air interface technologies represented by access points (APs) in Wi-Fi.

[0056] An access network that uses wireless communication technology to implement access network functions can be called a Radio Access Network (RAN). A RAN manages radio resources, provides access services to terminals, and facilitates the forwarding of control signals and user data between terminals and the core network.

[0057] 3. The Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) is primarily used for mobility and access management, performing registration, connection, reachability, and mobility management. The AMF can be used to implement functions other than session management in the Mobility Management Entity (MME), such as lawful surveillance or access authorization (or authentication).

[0058] AMF can provide a session management message transmission channel for UE and Session Management Function (SMF) network elements, and provide authentication and authorization functions for user access, as well as the core network control plane access point for terminals and radio.

[0059] 4. SMF: Primarily used for session management, UE Internet Protocol (IP) address allocation and management, selection of manageable user plane functions, policy control, or terminal points for charging function interfaces, and downlink data notification, etc.

[0060] SMF selects User Plane Function (UPF) network elements based on UE or session granularity, and can assign IP addresses, collect billing data, and connect to the billing center.

[0061] 5. UPF: This stands for Data Plane Gateway. It can be used for packet routing and forwarding, or for Quality of Service (QoS) processing of user plane data. User data can access the data network (DN) through this network element. The UPF is the anchor point of the session and records traffic forwarding volume.

[0062] 6. DN: Used to provide a network for transmitting data. Examples include carrier networks, the Internet, and third-party service networks.

[0063] 7. Authentication server function (AUSF): mainly used for user authentication, etc.

[0064] 8. Policy Control Function (PCF): A unified policy framework used to guide network behavior, providing policy rule information to control plane function elements (such as AMF, SMF, etc.). The main functions of the PCF include:

[0065] Application and service data flow detection, Quality of Service (QoS) control, quota management, flow-based charging, background data transmission policy negotiation, management of PFDs configured from third-party ASs via Network Exposure Function (NEF) elements and Packet Traffic Description Function (PFDF) elements, data flow splitting management, UDR front-end functionality to provide terminal subscription information, provision of network selection and mobility management related policies (such as RFSP retrieval), and UE policy configuration.

[0066] 9. Unified Data Management (UDM): Used for handling user identification, access authentication, registration, and mobility management. UDM can be used for 3GPP AKA authentication, user identification, access authorization, registration, mobility, subscription, and SMS management.

[0067] It should be understood that the network architecture described above in the embodiments of this disclosure is merely an example of a network architecture described from the perspective of a traditional point-to-point architecture and a service-oriented architecture. The network architecture applicable to the embodiments of this disclosure is not limited to this, and any network architecture that can realize the functions of the above-mentioned network elements is applicable to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0068] It should also be understood that Figure 1 The AMF, SMF, UPF, NSSF, NEF, AUSF, NRF, PCF, and UDM entities shown can be understood as network elements in the core network used to implement different functions, such as network slices that can be combined as needed. These core network elements can be independent devices or integrated into the same device to implement different functions; this disclosure does not limit this.

[0069] Furthermore, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the base station may be referred to as an access device or a radio access network (RAN).

[0070] The base station can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), a base station (node ​​B) in Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), an eNB, an eNB in ​​Internet of Things (IoT) or Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB-IoT), a base station in a future 5G mobile communication network, or a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN). This disclosure does not impose any limitations on these aspects.

[0071] It should also be noted that, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the terminal can be a device that needs to access the network. The terminal can have different names, such as access terminal, terminal unit, terminal station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, wireless communication device, vehicle user equipment, terminal agent, or terminal device, etc.

[0072] Optionally, the terminal can be various handheld devices, vehicle-mounted devices, wearable devices, or computers with communication functions, and this application embodiment does not limit this in any way. For example, it can be the UE described above.

[0073] The RFSP Index is an important parameter used by the core network to manage radio resources. Based on the RFSP Index issued by the core network, the base station can configure local radio resource policies to enable UE attachment and handover between different frequencies or access technologies (RATTypes).

[0074] In 4G systems, the RFSP Index is mainly selected by the MME based on the user's subscription data or local configuration information; while in 5G systems, the AMF, in addition to relatively fixed information such as user subscription data or local configuration, also receives the RFSP Index adjusted by the PCF's dynamic policy.

[0075] In one example, suppose the UE's subscription data prioritizes 5G and it has accessed the 5G network. The PCF, based on network congestion or data about the services the user will use, decides to switch the user to the 4G network, adjusting its RFSP index to prioritize 4G. At this point, the user returns to 4G. If the user maintains the RFSP index from 5G, then under unchanged radio conditions, the user will remain on 4G. However, if the MME immediately adjusts the RFSP index based on the subscription information after the user switches to 4G, the user may experience constant switching between 4G and 5G.

[0076] To address the issue of inconsistent RFSP Indexes during 4G / 5G system handover in current 3GPP standards (such as the ping-pong problem), which can occur due to the inability of 4G systems to dynamically adjust access and mobility policy parameters, this disclosure provides a method for updating access and mobility policy parameters. When a user hands over between 4G and 5G systems, a timer is added. During this timer, the access and mobility policy parameters from the original system are maintained. After the timer expires, the AMF / MME adjusts the RFSP Index based on the user's subscription data or local settings (or the AMF requests the PCF to issue the policy). This disclosure does not alter the existing 4G / 5G interoperability network architecture and processes. Through a simple timer parameter, it maintains temporary stability for the UE in the new network and allows for subsequent parameter adjustments.

[0077] The following describes in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the access and mobility policy parameter update method, apparatus, device, and storage medium provided in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0078] Figure 2 This diagram illustrates a flowchart of an access and mobility policy parameter update method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the model training method provided in this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0079] Step S202: When the user terminal switches to the new network system, a timer is started, and the user terminal remains in the new network system for the timer's update duration.

[0080] Step S204: After the timer reaches the update duration, update the access and mobility policy parameters.

[0081] The above steps are explained in detail below:

[0082] In the steps described above, when determining whether to update the access and mobility policy parameters of the user terminal, the user terminal's subscription data and the current network environment can be used as a comprehensive reference. Here, the current network environment may include data such as network congestion and the services the user is using.

[0083] As an example, suppose the UE's subscription data is 5G priority and it has accessed the 5G network. The PCF can determine whether the user's access and mobility policy parameters need to be updated based on network congestion or data such as the services the user will use. For example, if the PCF determines that the user's access and mobility policy parameters need to be updated to allow the user to switch to the 4G network, then its access and mobility policy parameters can be adjusted to 4G priority.

[0084] Since the user's subscription data prioritizes 5G, after switching to 4G, the MME will readjust the user's access and mobility policy parameters to prioritize 5G again based on the information in the subscription data, thus enabling the user to switch back to 5G. During this process, if the MME immediately adjusts the RFSP Index based on the subscription information after the user switches to 4G, the user may experience constant switching between 4G and 5G.

[0085] To avoid users constantly switching between 4G and 5G, the access and mobility policy parameter update method provided in this disclosure starts a timer when it is necessary to update the access and mobility policy parameters of the user terminal. Before the timer reaches the update duration, the access and mobility policy parameters are not updated, so that the user terminal can remain in the 4G network.

[0086] As another example, when the UE is in a 4G system, after its voice capabilities and settings change, or after the local operator's configuration policy changes, the UE can report its changed voice capabilities and settings to the MME. The MME can generate a new RFSP index based on the subscribed RFSP index, the voice capabilities and settings information provided by the UE, and the operator's configuration policy.

[0087] The MME determines whether the new RFSP index differs from the existing RFSP index and whether an update to the access and mobility policy parameters is required, which means updating the RFSP index.

[0088] If an update is required, the MME can trigger the Sl interface user plane Bearer establishment process during the TAU procedure, and pass the new RFSP index parameter in use to the RAN in the INITIAL CONTEXT SETUP REQUEST message.

[0089] As another example, when determining whether to update the access and mobility policy parameters of a user terminal based on the current network environment and the user terminal's subscription data, the parameters for determination can also be provided by the UE, and the UE can determine whether to trigger an update of the RFSP index.

[0090] Specifically, when the UE determines that the RFSP index parameter needs to be updated, it can be done after the UE's capabilities and settings have changed. The determination of whether the RFSP index parameter needs to be updated can be based on the changes in the UE's capabilities and the network configuration information.

[0091] In the above steps, the terminal's capability can be the network that the terminal can support. For example, if the terminal is a 5G terminal, when the terminal moves to the coverage area of ​​a 5G base station, the terminal can access the 5G network.

[0092] The contract data of a terminal can be the business information that the terminal has, that is, the information signed between the user corresponding to the terminal and the telecommunications operator.

[0093] For example, if a terminal has voice services, and the 5G base station supports voice services, the terminal can use voice services through the 5G base station; if the 5G base station does not support voice services, the terminal can use voice services through the 4G network.

[0094] In the above steps, when a user switches between 4G and 5G systems, this embodiment of the disclosure adds a timer to maintain the access and mobility policy parameters in the original system during the update duration. After the update duration ends, the AMF / MME adjusts the access and mobility policy parameters RFSP Index based on the user's subscription data or local settings (or the AMF requests the PCF to issue a policy).

[0095] When the UE completes the handover registration process, the timer starts counting. When the timer counts to completion (either forward or backward), the AMF or MME adjusts the user's access and mobility policy parameters according to the methods and procedures defined in the current standard.

[0096] The update duration of this parameter can be preset in the AMF or MME, or adjusted by the PCF when configuring access and mobility policy parameters. When a user switches between 4G and 5G, this update duration value can be transmitted via the N26 interface. For a detailed explanation of the update duration, please refer to the embodiments below; it will not be repeated here.

[0097] After the timer reaches the update duration, the network side can update the access and mobility policy parameters according to the solutions in the relevant technologies. Then, the user terminal can attach to the new network system, such as the 5G system, according to the updated access and mobility policy parameters.

[0098] In some embodiments, access and mobility policy parameters may employ the radio frequency selection priority index RFSPIndex.

[0099] The RFSP index is similar to the SPID (Subscriber Profile ID for RAT / Frequency Priority) used by cellular systems to define RRM policies. The RFSP index can be defined based on a specific user's registration data in the UDM and passed to the gNB during the registration process.

[0100] As an example, the registration data for RFSP in UDM is in the following format:

[0101] RFSP Index An index to specific RRM configuration in the NG-RAN.

[0102] RFSP can be transmitted to gNB via AMF through multiple types of messages. In addition, the UE's usage setting in the Registration Request will affect the RFSP index.

[0103] The method for updating access and mobility policy parameters proposed in this disclosure can be applied in 4 / 5G system interaction. This method does not modify the existing 4 / 5G interoperability network architecture and process. By using simple timer parameters, it can maintain the temporary stability of the UE in the new network and allow subsequent parameter adjustments.

[0104] It should be noted that the access and mobility policy parameter update method provided in this disclosure can be applied to AMF or MME;

[0105] When the method is applied to AMF, after updating the access and mobility policy parameters, the network system accessed by the user terminal switches from 5G to 4G.

[0106] When the method is applied to the MME, after updating the access and mobility policy parameters, the network system accessed by the user terminal switches from 4G to 5G.

[0107] Accordingly, when the network system in which the user terminal is located is different, the executing entity of the access and mobility policy parameter update method in the above embodiments can be different. For example Figure 3 As shown, when the network system accessed by the user terminal is 5G, the execution entity can be AMF; when the network system accessed by the user terminal is 4G, the execution entity can be MME.

[0108] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to different implementing entities, and thus can adapt to scenarios of switching from 5G to 4G, as well as scenarios of switching from 4G to 5G.

[0109] As an example, when the network system accessed by the user terminal is 5G, such as Figure 4 As shown, the execution entity of step S402 can be AMF. In step S404, AMF maintains the RFSP index (5G priority) within the update duration. After the update duration is reached, AMF updates the RFSP index according to the subscription information, local configuration, or PCF policy.

[0110] As another example, when the network system accessed by the user terminal is 4G, such as Figure 5 As shown, the execution entity can be an MME. In step S504, the MME maintains the RFSP index (4G priority) within the update duration. After the update duration is reached, the MME updates the RFSP index according to the subscription information or local configuration.

[0111] In some embodiments, the network system accessed by the user terminal is 5G. In this case, the entity executing the above method can be the Access and Mobility Policy (AMF). Accordingly, the access and mobility policy parameters can be updated based on at least one of the following data:

[0112] User's subscription data, local configuration information, and dynamic policies of the policy control function network element PCF.

[0113] In some embodiments, when the method is applied to the AMF, the update duration is one of the following durations:

[0114] The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration is preset in the AMF, and a third duration is preset in the Mobility Management Node Functional Element (MME).

[0115] Here, the update duration value can be selected based on a preset priority order or a preset selection method.

[0116] In one example, the priority order of the above update duration values ​​is as follows:

[0117] The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration preset in the AMF, and a third duration preset in the MME.

[0118] It should be noted that the value of the third duration is stored in the MME. When the value of the third duration is needed, the third duration can be passed from the MME to the AMF through the N26 interface.

[0119] In another example, the process for selecting the update duration can be as follows:

[0120] When the method is applied to AMF, and PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, the value of the update duration is the value of the first duration.

[0121] When the method is applied to AMF, and PCF does not set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, but AMF has a preset second duration, the value of the update duration is the value of the second duration.

[0122] When the method is applied to the AMF, and the PCF does not set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters and there is no preset second duration in the AMF, it receives the third duration transmitted by the MME through the N26 interface, and the value of the updated duration is adopted from the value of the third duration.

[0123] like Figure 6 As shown, when a user is in a 5G network system, the process of selecting the update duration during the execution of the above method by the AMF may include the following steps:

[0124] Step S602: Did the PCF set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters?

[0125] When a first duration is configured, step S604 is executed to update the duration using the value of the first duration;

[0126] If no first duration is configured, execute step S606 to determine whether a second duration is preset in the AMF;

[0127] When a second duration is preset, step S608 is executed to update the duration using the value of the second duration;

[0128] If no second duration is preset, step S610 is executed to determine whether there is an N26 interface between AMF and MME.

[0129] When the N26 interface is available, step S612 is executed to update the duration using the third duration value provided by the MME;

[0130] If the N26 interface is not available, proceed to step S614, following the method flow defined in the current standard.

[0131] Specifically, when a user is in a 5G network system, if the N26 interface is not involved, the target AMF will preferentially use the first duration provided by the PCF; if not, it will use the second duration preset in the AMF.

[0132] If an N26 interface is available, the target AMF will preferentially use the first duration provided by the PCF. If not, it will use the second duration preset in the AMF. If not, it will use the third duration provided by the MME.

[0133] If the AMF cannot obtain the initial value of the update duration when the user switches between 4G and 5G, it considers the counting to be complete and immediately executes the process according to the current standard definition.

[0134] In the above embodiments, N26 is the interface between the 4G core network and the 5G core network (between MME and AMF), used for 4G and 5G interoperability.

[0135] For the 5G core network, when the AMF supports the N26 interface, the NG-RAN can perform EPS fallback through handover or redirection and use IMS voice service;

[0136] When the AMF does not support the N26 interface, NG-RAN can only redirect for EPS fallback and use IMS voice service.

[0137] For SA networking, UEs registered under 5GC obtain IMS voice services through RAT Fallback and EPS Fallback.

[0138] Specific implementation methods include: redirecting to 4G, switching to 4G, redirecting to 4GRAN (5GC), and switching to 4GRAN (5GC).

[0139] In some embodiments, the network system accessed by the user terminal is 4G. In this case, the entity executing the above method can be an MME. Accordingly, the access and mobility policy parameters can be updated based on at least one of the following data:

[0140] User's contract data and local configuration information.

[0141] Unlike the embodiments described above, the reference data for access and mobility policy parameter updates here does not include the dynamic policy of the Policy Control Function (PCF) network element.

[0142] In some embodiments, when the method is applied to the MME, the update duration can be one of the following durations:

[0143] The second duration is preset in AMF, and the third duration is preset in MME.

[0144] In some embodiments, when the method is applied to an MME, the method may further include:

[0145] The RFSP Index and the second duration are received from the AMF via the N26 interface, and the update duration is based on the value of the second duration.

[0146] Accordingly, after the timer reaches its update duration, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated, which may include:

[0147] After the timer reaches its second duration, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on the RFSP Index transmitted by the AMF.

[0148] Furthermore, when there is no N26 interface between the AMF and MME, the update duration can use the value of the third duration.

[0149] like Figure 7 As shown, when a user is in a 4G network system, the process of selecting the update duration during the execution of the above method by the MME may include the following steps:

[0150] Step S702: Does the AMF and MME have an N26 interface?

[0151] When the N26 interface is available, step S704 is executed to update the duration using the second duration value provided by the MME;

[0152] If the N26 interface is not available, proceed to step S706 to check whether a third duration value is preset in the MME.

[0153] When a third duration is preset, step S708 is executed to update the duration using the value of the third duration;

[0154] If no third duration is preset, proceed to step S710, following the method flow defined in the current standard.

[0155] In other words, when the method is applied to the MME, if the N26 interface is not involved, that is, if the original AMF and the target MME cannot directly exchange information, the target MME uses the preset value of the third duration.

[0156] If there is an N26 interface, the original AMF will pass the RFSP Index and the second duration to the target MME, and the target MME will use the value of the received second duration.

[0157] Similar to the previous implementation where the execution entity is AMF, if the AMF cannot obtain the initial value of the update duration when the user switches between 4G and 5G, it considers the counting to be complete and immediately executes according to the method flow defined in the current standard.

[0158] The inventors discovered that the current R17 standard does not take into account the ping-pong problem (switching back and forth between 4G and 5G) or user stagnation problem (being unable to switch back to 5G after switching between 4G) that may occur when users switch between 4G and 5G interoperable networks due to inconsistent RFSP Index parameter adjustments.

[0159] The embodiments disclosed herein, without changing the existing 4 / 5G interoperability network architecture and processes, only add a timer and its update duration, which is beneficial for network applications; and the update duration can be configured in AMF or MME, or adjusted by PCF (under 5G network), and can also be transmitted between 4 / 5G. Based on the existing 4 / 5G interoperability architecture and processes, the modification to equipment is minimal, making it easy to apply in the existing network environment.

[0160] Based on the same inventive concept, this disclosure also provides an access and mobility policy parameter update apparatus, as described in the following embodiments. Since the principle by which this access and mobility policy parameter update apparatus solves the problem is similar to that of the above-described method embodiments, the implementation of this access and mobility policy parameter update apparatus embodiment can refer to the implementation of the above-described method embodiments, and repeated details will not be elaborated further.

[0161] Figure 8 This invention discloses an access and mobility policy parameter update apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the access and mobility policy parameter update device 800 includes:

[0162] The timer module 802 starts a timer when the user terminal switches to a new network system, and the user terminal remains in the new network system for the timer's update duration.

[0163] The parameter update module 804 is used to update the access and mobility policy parameters after the timer reaches the update duration.

[0164] In some embodiments, the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 can be applied to an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) or a Mobility Management Node Function (MME).

[0165] When the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 is applied to AMF, after updating the access and mobility policy parameters, the network system accessed by the user terminal switches from 5G to 4G.

[0166] When the access and mobility policy parameter update device 800 is applied to the MME, after updating the access and mobility policy parameters, the network system accessed by the user terminal switches from 4G to 5G.

[0167] In some embodiments, access and mobility policy parameters may include a Radio Frequency Selection Priority Index (RFSP Index).

[0168] In some embodiments, when the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 is applied to the AMF, the Access and Mobility Policy Parameters may be updated based on at least one of the following data:

[0169] User's subscription data, local configuration information, and dynamic policies of the policy control function network element PCF.

[0170] In some embodiments, when the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 is applied to the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update (AMF), the update duration is one of the following durations:

[0171] The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration is preset in the AMF, and a third duration is preset in the Mobility Management Node Functional Element (MME).

[0172] In some embodiments, the priority order of update duration values ​​is as follows:

[0173] The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration preset in the AMF, and a third duration preset in the MME;

[0174] The third duration can be transmitted from the MME to the AMF via the N26 interface.

[0175] In some embodiments, when the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 is applied to the AMF, and the PCF sets a first duration when configuring the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter, the value of the update duration is the value of the first duration.

[0176] When the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 is applied to the Access and Mobility Policy (AMF), and the PCF does not set a first duration when configuring the access and mobility policy parameters, but a second duration is preset in the AMF, the update duration value adopts the value of the second duration.

[0177] When the Access and Mobility Policy Parameter Update Device 800 is applied to the AMF, and the PCF does not set a first duration when configuring the access and mobility policy parameters and there is no preset second duration in the AMF, it receives the third duration transmitted by the MME through the N26 interface, and the value of the updated duration adopts the value of the third duration.

[0178] In some embodiments, when the access and mobility policy parameter update device 800 is applied to the MME, the access and mobility policy parameters may be updated based on at least one of the following data:

[0179] User's contract data and local configuration information.

[0180] In some embodiments, when the access and mobility policy parameter update device 800 is applied to the MME, the update duration is one of the following durations:

[0181] The second duration is preset in AMF, and the third duration is preset in MME.

[0182] In some embodiments, when there is no N26 interface between the AMF and MME, the update duration uses the value of the third duration.

[0183] The access and mobility policy parameter update apparatus provided in this application embodiment can be used to execute the access and mobility policy parameter update methods provided in the above method embodiments. Their implementation principles and technical effects are similar, and for the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0184] Those skilled in the art will understand that various aspects of this disclosure can be implemented as a system, method, or program product. Therefore, various aspects of this disclosure can be specifically implemented in the following forms: a completely hardware implementation, a completely software implementation (including firmware, microcode, etc.), or a combination of hardware and software aspects, collectively referred to herein as a "circuit," "module," or "system."

[0185] The following reference Figure 9 To describe an electronic device 900 according to such an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 The electronic device 900 shown is merely an example and should not impose any limitation on the functionality and scope of use of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0186] like Figure 9 As shown, the electronic device 900 is manifested in the form of a general-purpose computing device. The components of the electronic device 900 may include, but are not limited to: at least one processing unit 910, at least one storage unit 920, and a bus 930 connecting different system components (including the storage unit 920 and the processing unit 910).

[0187] The storage unit stores program code that can be executed by the processing unit 910, causing the processing unit 910 to perform the steps described in the "Exemplary Methods" section of this specification according to various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure. For example, the processing unit 910 can perform the following steps:

[0188] Based on the current network environment and the user terminal's subscription data, determine whether it is necessary to update the user terminal's access and mobility policy parameters;

[0189] Start a timer when it is necessary to update the access and mobility policy parameters of user terminals;

[0190] After the timer reaches the update duration, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated to adjust the network system accessed by the user terminal.

[0191] In some embodiments, access and mobility policy parameters include the radio frequency selection priority index RFSPIndex.

[0192] Storage unit 920 may include readable media in the form of volatile storage units, such as random access memory (RAM) 9201 and / or cache memory 9202, and may further include read-only memory (ROM) 9203.

[0193] Storage unit 920 may also include a program / utility 9204 having a set (at least one) program module 9205, such program module 9205 including but not limited to: operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules and program data, each or some combination of these examples may include an implementation of a network environment.

[0194] Bus 930 can represent one or more of several types of bus structures, including a memory cell bus or memory cell controller, a peripheral bus, a graphics acceleration port, a processing unit, or a local bus using any of the various bus structures.

[0195] Electronic device 900 can also communicate with one or more external devices 940 (e.g., keyboard, pointing device, Bluetooth device, etc.), and with one or more devices that enable a user to interact with electronic device 900, and / or with any device that enables electronic device 900 to communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., router, modem, etc.). This communication can be performed via input / output (I / O) interface 950. Furthermore, electronic device 900 can also communicate with one or more networks (e.g., local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and / or public networks, such as the Internet) via network adapter 960. As shown, network adapter 960 communicates with other modules of electronic device 900 via bus 930. It should be understood that, although not shown in the figures, other hardware and / or software modules can be used in conjunction with electronic device 900, including but not limited to: microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, tape drives, and data backup storage systems.

[0196] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented by software or by combining software with necessary hardware. Therefore, the technical solutions according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product, which can be stored in a non-volatile storage medium (such as a CD-ROM, USB flash drive, external hard drive, etc.) or on a network, including several instructions to cause a computing device (such as a personal computer, server, terminal device, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0197] In exemplary embodiments of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is also provided, which may be a readable signal medium or a readable storage medium. A program product capable of implementing the methods described above is stored thereon. In some possible implementations, various aspects of this disclosure may also be implemented as a program product including program code, which, when run on a terminal device, causes the terminal device to perform the steps described in the "Exemplary Methods" section of this specification according to various exemplary embodiments of this disclosure.

[0198] More specific examples of computer-readable storage media in this disclosure may include, but are not limited to: electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination of the foregoing.

[0199] In this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium may include a data signal propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, carrying readable program code. Such propagated data signals may take various forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or any suitable combination thereof. A readable signal medium may also be any readable medium other than a readable storage medium, capable of transmitting, propagating, or transmitting a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0200] Optionally, the program code contained on the computer-readable storage medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, RF, etc., or any suitable combination thereof.

[0201] In practical implementation, program code for performing the operations of this disclosure can be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages ​​such as Java and C++, and conventional procedural programming languages ​​such as C or similar languages. The program code can execute entirely on the user's computing device, partially on the user's device, as a standalone software package, partially on the user's computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server. In cases involving remote computing devices, the remote computing device can be connected to the user's computing device via any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or it can be connected to an external computing device (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).

[0202] It should be noted that although several modules or units for the device used to perform actions have been mentioned in the detailed description above, this division is not mandatory. In fact, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the features and functions of two or more modules or units described above can be embodied in one module or unit. Conversely, the features and functions of one module or unit described above can be further divided and embodied by multiple modules or units.

[0203] Furthermore, although the steps of the method in this disclosure are described in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this does not require or imply that the steps must be performed in that specific order, or that all the steps shown must be performed to achieve the desired result. Additional or alternative steps may be omitted, multiple steps may be combined into one step, and / or a step may be broken down into multiple steps.

[0204] From the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the exemplary embodiments described herein can be implemented by software or by combining software with necessary hardware. Therefore, the technical solutions according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be embodied in the form of a software product, which can be stored in a non-volatile storage medium (such as a CD-ROM, USB flash drive, external hard drive, etc.) or on a network, including several instructions to cause a computing device (such as a personal computer, server, mobile terminal, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0205] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for updating access and mobility policy parameters, characterized in that, The user terminal access system has transitioned from 5G to 4G. The method is applied to the MME (Multi-Mechanical Equipment), and the method includes: When a user terminal switches to a new network system, the user terminal remains in the new network system for the duration of the update. Receive the Radio Frequency Selection Priority Index (RFSP Index) and the fourth duration transmitted by the AMF through the N26 interface; After the update duration is reached, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated, including the RFSP Index. The update duration adopts the value of the fourth duration, which is the value of the first duration set by the PCF when configuring the access and mobility policy parameters or the value of the second duration preset in the AMF.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The user terminal access system has evolved from 4G to 5G. The method is applied to the AMF (Automatic Facilitation Module) and includes: When a user terminal switches to a new network system, the user terminal remains in the new network system for the duration of the update. After the update duration is reached, update the access and mobility policy parameters.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the method is applied to the AMF, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on at least one of the following data: User's subscription data, local configuration information, and dynamic policies of the policy control function network element PCF.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the method is applied to AMF, the update duration is one of the following durations: The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration is preset in the AMF, and a third duration is preset in the Mobility Management Node Functional Element (MME).

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The priority order of the update duration values ​​is as follows: The PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, a second duration preset in the AMF, and a third duration preset in the MME; The third duration is transmitted from the MME to the AMF via the N26 interface.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the method is applied to the AMF, and the PCF sets a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, the value of the update duration adopts the value of the first duration; When the method is applied to AMF, and PCF does not set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters, but AMF has a preset second duration, the value of the update duration is the value of the second duration. When the method is applied to the AMF, and the PCF does not set a first duration when configuring access and mobility policy parameters and there is no preset second duration in the AMF, it receives a third duration transmitted by the MME through the N26 interface, and the value of the updated duration adopts the value of the third duration.

7. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When the method is applied to an MME, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on at least one of the following data: User's contract data and local configuration information.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, When the method is applied to the MME, the update duration is one of the following durations: The second duration is preset in AMF, and the third duration is preset in MME.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of updating access and mobility policy parameters after the update duration is reached includes: After the fourth duration is reached, the access and mobility policy parameters are updated based on the RFSP Index transmitted by the AMF.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, When there is no N26 interface between the AMF and the MME, the update duration adopts the value of the third duration.

11. An access and mobility policy parameter update device, characterized in that, The user terminal access system has evolved from 5G to 4G. The device is applied to the MME and includes: The timer module ensures that when a user terminal switches to a new network system, the user terminal remains in the new network system for the update duration. The parameter update module is used to receive the Radio Frequency Selection Priority Index (RFSP Index) and the fourth duration transmitted by the AMF through the N26 interface; after the update duration is reached, it updates the access and mobility policy parameters, including the RFSP Index; the update duration adopts the value of the fourth duration, which is the value of the first duration set by the PCF when configuring the access and mobility policy parameters or the value of the second duration preset in the AMF.

12. An electronic device, characterized in that, include: processor; as well as Memory for storing the executable instructions of the processor; The processor is configured to execute the access and mobility policy parameter update method according to any one of claims 1-10 by executing the executable instructions.

13. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the access and mobility policy parameter update method according to any one of claims 1-10.

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