Methods, devices, and storage media for determining network elements

Abstract

This application provides a method, apparatus, and storage medium for determining network elements, relating to the field of communications, and is used to improve the accuracy of AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) network element selection. The method includes: obtaining a registration request message from a target device; determining a first weight value and a second weight value in response to the registration request message, wherein the first weight value is a weight value of a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element group, and the second weight value is a weight value of a second AMF network element group, the weight values ​​reflecting the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups; determining a target AMF network element group from the first and second AMF network element groups based on the first and second weight values, wherein the target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first and second weight values; determining a target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group, wherein the target AMF network element is any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group; and sending a registration response message to the target device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communications, and more particularly to a method, apparatus and storage medium for determining network elements. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communication technology, the number of devices is gradually increasing. When a device requests network access, the base station can select an appropriate access and mobility management function (AMF) network element to manage the device's mobility.

[0003] Currently, base stations can select AMF (Active Network Element) network elements based on the information carried by the device. If the selected AMF network element cannot provide service to the device, the base station can randomly select one from multiple candidate AMF network elements. However, the base station may select an AMF network element that the device is not allowed to connect to, thus preventing the device from accessing the network. This reduces the accuracy of AMF network element selection. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a method, apparatus, and storage medium for determining network elements, which can improve the accuracy of AMF network element selection.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0006] Firstly, this application provides a method for determining network elements. In this method, a network element determining device (hereinafter referred to as "determining device") acquires a registration request message from a target device, the registration request message indicating a request to access the network. In response to the registration request message, the determining device can determine a first weight value and a second weight value. The first weight value is the weight value of a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element group, and the second weight value is the weight value of a second AMF network element group. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The weight value reflects the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups. The determining device can determine a target AMF network element group from the first and second AMF network element groups based on the first and second weight values. The target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first and second weight values. The determining device can also determine a target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group, the target AMF network element being any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The determining device can send a registration response message to the target device, which is used to instruct the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element.

[0007] Optionally, the method for determining the network element further includes: the determining device can send a load request message to each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, the load request message being used to request the load information of the AMF network element. The determining device can receive the load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The above-mentioned method of "determining the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group" further includes: the determining device can determine the target AMF network element based on the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, wherein the target AMF network element is specifically the AMF network element with the smallest load information in the target AMF network element group.

[0008] Optionally, the method for determining network elements further includes: the determining device can acquire network element information of multiple AMF network elements, the network element information including: type identifier and device registration quantity. The determining device can classify the multiple AMF network elements according to the type identifier in the network element information to determine a first AMF network element group and a second AMF network element group. The determining device can determine the sum of the device registration quantities of the first AMF network element group according to the device registration quantities in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group. The determining device can determine the sum of the device registration quantities of the second AMF network element group according to the device registration quantities in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group. The above method for "determining the first weight value and the second weight value" further includes: the determining device can determine the first weight value and the second weight value according to the sum of the device registration quantities of the first AMF network element group and the sum of the device registration quantities of the second AMF network element group.

[0009] Optionally, the above method for "determining the first weight value and the second weight value" further includes: if the registration request message does not include identification information and the registration request message does not include network slice information, the determining device can determine the first weight value and the second weight value, and the identification information is the identification information of the AMF network element.

[0010] Secondly, this application provides a device for determining a network element, the device including an acquisition module, a processing module, and a transmission module.

[0011] The acquisition module is used to acquire a registration request message from a target device, which indicates a request to access the network. The processing module is used to respond to the registration request message by determining a first weight value and a second weight value. The first weight value is the weight value of a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element group, and the second weight value is the weight value of a second AMF network element group. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving IoT devices. The weight value reflects the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups. The processing module is also used to determine a target AMF network element group from the first and second AMF network element groups based on the first and second weight values. The target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first and second weight values. The processing module is also used to determine a target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group. The target AMF network element is any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The sending module is used to send a registration response message to the target device. The registration response message is used to instruct the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element.

[0012] Optionally, the sending module is further configured to send a load request message to each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, the load request message being used to request the load information of the AMF network element. The obtaining module is further configured to receive the load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The processing module is specifically configured to determine the target AMF network element based on the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, the target AMF network element being the AMF network element with the smallest load information in the target AMF network element group.

[0013] Optionally, the acquisition module is further configured to acquire network element information of multiple AMF network elements, including type identifiers and device registration counts. The processing module is further configured to classify the multiple AMF network elements according to the type identifiers in the network element information, determining a first AMF network element group and a second AMF network element group. The processing module is further configured to determine the total number of device registrations in the first AMF network element group based on the device registration counts in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group. The processing module is further configured to determine the total number of device registrations in the second AMF network element group based on the device registration counts in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group. Specifically, the processing module is configured to determine a first weight value and a second weight value based on the total number of device registrations in the first AMF network element group and the total number of device registrations in the second AMF network element group.

[0014] Optionally, the processing module is specifically used to determine the first weight value and the second weight value if the registration request message does not include identification information and the registration request message does not include network slice information, and the identification information is the identification information of the AMF network element.

[0015] Thirdly, this application provides a network element determination apparatus, comprising a processor and a memory. The processor and the memory are coupled. The memory stores one or more programs, which include computer-executable instructions. When the network element determination apparatus is running, the processor executes the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory to implement the network element determination method as described in any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0016] Fourthly, this application provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method for determining network elements described in any possible implementation of the first aspect above.

[0017] Fifthly, this application provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, causes the computer to implement the method for determining network elements as described in any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0018] In the above scheme, the technical problems that can be solved and the technical effects that can be achieved by the network element determination device, computer equipment, computer storage medium or computer program product can be referred to the technical problems and technical effects solved in the first aspect above, and will not be repeated here.

[0019] The technical solution provided in this application brings at least the following beneficial effects: The base station can obtain a registration request message from a target device, which indicates a request to access the network. In response to the registration request message, the base station can determine the weight values ​​of a first AMF network element group and a second AMF network element group. The weight values ​​reflect the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving IoT devices. The base station can determine the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value as the target AMF network element group based on the weight values ​​of the first and second AMF network element groups. Thus, a larger weight value in an AMF network element group indicates a larger number of registered devices, making it more likely that the target device will use an AMF network element in that group, thereby improving the accuracy of AMF network element selection. The base station can determine a target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group, where the target AMF network element is any AMF network element within the target AMF network element group. Afterward, the base station can send a registration response message to the target device, which instructs the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element. In this way, the base station can select AMF network elements for the target device from the AMF network element group with a large number of registered devices, thus improving the accuracy of AMF network element selection. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application, and do not constitute an undue limitation of this application.

[0021] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for selecting a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0022] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a network element determination system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0023] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0024] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for determining a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0025] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for determining a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0026] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for determining a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0027] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for determining a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0028] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for determining a network element according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0029] Figure 9 This is a structural block diagram of a network element determination device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0030] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network element determination device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] Figure 11 This is a conceptual partial view of a computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0033] In this article, the character " / " generally indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B can be understood as A or B.

[0034] The terms “first” and “second” in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish different objects, rather than to describe a specific order of objects.

[0035] Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, used in the description of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or modules is not limited to the steps or modules listed, but may optionally include other steps or modules not listed, or may optionally include other steps or modules inherent to such process, method, product, or device.

[0036] Furthermore, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design that is described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or design options. Specifically, the use of the words "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner.

[0037] Before providing a detailed description of the method for determining network elements in this application embodiment, the implementation environment and application scenarios of this application embodiment will be introduced first.

[0038] With the development of communication technology, the number of devices is gradually increasing. When a device requests network access, the base station can select appropriate access and AMF (Active Network Function) elements to manage the device's mobility.

[0039] Currently, such as Figure 1 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a network element selection method. The base station can select an AMF (Active Network Element) based on information carried by the device. The base station can receive a registration message from the device and determine whether the registration message includes a globally unique temporary identifier (GUTI). If the registration message includes a GUTI, the base station can determine whether the AMF network element corresponding to the globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) in the GUTI allows the device to connect. If the AMF network element corresponding to the GUAMI allows the device to connect, the base station can send a registration message to the AMF network element corresponding to the GUAMI. If the registration message does not include a GUTI, or the AMF network element corresponding to the GUAMI does not allow the device to connect, the base station can determine whether the registration message includes network slice information. If the registration message includes network slice information, the base station can determine whether the AMF network element corresponding to the network slice information allows the device to connect. If the AMF network element corresponding to the network slice information allows the device to connect, the base station can send a registration message to the AMF network element corresponding to the network slice information. If the registration message does not include network slice information, or if the AMF network element corresponding to the network slice information does not allow the device to connect, the base station can randomly select one AMF network element from multiple candidate AMF network elements.

[0040] However, the base station may select an AMF (Active Network Element) that the device is not allowed to connect to, thus preventing the device from accessing the network. This reduces the accuracy of AMF selection.

[0041] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a method for determining network elements. The method includes: a base station acquiring a registration request message from a target device. In response to the registration request message, the base station determines the weight value of a first AMF network element group and a second AMF network element group, where the weight value reflects the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups. The base station can determine a target AMF network element group from the first and second AMF network element groups based on their respective weight values. The target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value. Then, the base station can randomly select one AMF network element from the target AMF network element group as the target AMF network element. The base station sends a registration response message to the target device, instructing the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element. In this way, the base station can select an AMF network element for the target device from AMF network element groups with a large number of registered devices, improving the accuracy of AMF network element selection.

[0042] The implementation environment of the embodiments of this application is described below.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a network element determination system according to an exemplary embodiment. The architecture includes a base station 201 and a device (such as a terminal 202). The base station 201 and the device (terminal 202) can perform wired / wireless communication.

[0044] Base station 201 can include various forms of base stations, such as macro base stations, micro base stations (also known as small stations), relay stations, access points, etc. Specifically, it can be an access point (AP) in a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), a base station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), a base station (NodeB, NB) in a Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) network, an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in LTE, a relay station or access point, or a base station in vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable devices, or the Next Generation Node B (gNB) in 5G networks, or a future evolved Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) network, etc.

[0045] Base station 201 can be used to acquire and store device registration request messages. Base station 201 can also process device registration request messages. Base station 201 can also send registration response messages to the device.

[0046] The device (such as terminal 202) can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, desktop computer, laptop computer, handheld computer, notebook computer, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), netbook, etc. with transmitting and receiving functions. This application does not impose any special restrictions on the specific form of the terminal. It can interact with the user through one or more methods such as keyboard, touchpad, touch screen, remote control, voice interaction or handwriting device.

[0047] Terminal 202 can be used to send a registration request message to base station 201. Terminal 202 can also be used to receive a registration response message from base station 201.

[0048] The embodiments of this application will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0049] like Figure 3 The image shows a method for determining a network element provided in an embodiment of this application. The method includes:

[0050] S301, The base station obtains the registration request message of the target device.

[0051] The registration request message is used to indicate a request to access the network.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the target device can send registration request information to the base station. The base station can receive the registration request information from the target device to obtain the target device's registration request message.

[0053] In this embodiment of the application, in response to the registration request message, the base station can execute S302.

[0054] S302, The base station determines the first weight value and the second weight value.

[0055] The first weight value is the weight value of the first AMF network element group, and the second weight value is the weight value of the second AMF network element group. The weight values ​​are used to reflect the number of devices registered in the AMF network element group.

[0056] In one possible design, the first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

[0057] In one possible implementation, the base station can obtain the number of registered devices for each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group and the number of registered devices for each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group. Then, the base station can determine the sum of the number of registered devices in the first and second AMF network element groups based on the number of registered devices in each of the first and second AMF network element groups. Afterward, the base station can determine a first weight value based on the sum of the number of registered devices in each of the first and second AMF network element groups. Finally, the base station can determine a second weight value based on the sum of the number of registered devices in each of the second AMF network element group and the number of registered devices in the first and second AMF network element groups.

[0058] For example, suppose the number of registered devices for each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group is as follows: 150 for AMF network element a, 170 for AMF network element b, 130 for AMF network element c, and 150 for AMF network element d; and the number of registered devices for each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group is as follows: 150 for AMF network element e and 150 for AMF network element f. Then the total number of registered devices in the first and second AMF network element groups is 900. Therefore, the first weight value is 2 / 3, and the second weight value is 1 / 3.

[0059] S303. The base station determines the target AMF network element group from the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group based on the first weight value and the second weight value.

[0060] The target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first and second weight values.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the base station can compare a first weight value and a second weight value to determine the largest weight value. The base station can then use the AMF (Advanced Feature Function) element group corresponding to the largest weight value as the target AMF element group.

[0062] For example, if the first weight value is 80% and the second weight value is 20%, then the maximum weight value is 80%, and the target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the first weight value, i.e., the first AMF network element group. If the first weight value is 48% and the second weight value is 52%, then the maximum weight value is 52%, and the target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the second weight value, i.e., the second AMF network element group.

[0063] S304. The base station determines the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group.

[0064] The target AMF network element is any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group.

[0065] For example, if the target AMF network element group includes: AMF network element a, AMF network element b, and AMF network element c, then the target AMF network element can be AMF network element a.

[0066] S305. The base station sends a registration response message to the target device.

[0067] The registration response message is used to instruct the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element.

[0068] In one possible design, the registration response message may include the identification information of the target AMF network element.

[0069] In this embodiment, after the base station sends a registration response message to the target device, the target device can receive the registration response message. In response to the registration response message, the target device can determine the target AMF network element based on its identification information. Subsequently, the target device can access the network through the target AMF network element.

[0070] Understandably, the base station can obtain the registration request message from the target device, which indicates a request to access the network. In response to the registration request message, the base station can determine the weight values ​​of a first AMF (Application Function) network element group and a second AMF network element group. The weight values ​​reflect the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving IoT devices. Based on the weight values ​​of the first and second AMF network element groups, the base station can determine the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value as the target AMF network element group. Thus, a larger weight value in an AMF network element group indicates a larger number of registered devices, making it more likely that the target device will access the network through the AMF network elements in that group, improving the accuracy of AMF network element selection. The base station can then determine the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group; the target AMF network element is any AMF network element within that group. Afterward, the base station can send a registration response message to the target device, instructing the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element. In this way, the base station can select AMF network elements for the target device from the AMF network element group with a large number of registered devices, thus improving the accuracy of AMF network element selection.

[0071] It should be noted that when a base station selects any AMF network element from the target AMF network element group as the target AMF network element, there may be situations where the target AMF network element cannot meet the needs of the target device. In such cases, the base station needs to reselect an AMF network element for the target device. However, reselecting an AMF network element increases the consumption of network resources.

[0072] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, before the base station determines the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group (S304), the method for determining the network element also includes: S401-S402.

[0073] S401. The base station sends a load request message to each AMF element in the target AMF element group.

[0074] The load request message is used to request load information from AMF network elements.

[0075] In this embodiment, after the base station sends a load request message to each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group can receive the load request message from the base station. Each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group can send load information to the base station.

[0076] The following section uses candidate AMF network elements as an example to describe how each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group sends load information to the base station. Here, a candidate AMF network element is any AMF network element group within the target AMF network element group.

[0077] In some embodiments, the candidate AMF network element stores a first quantity, which is the number of devices that the candidate AMF network element is allowed to register. The candidate AMF network element can obtain a second quantity, which is the number of devices registered with the candidate AMF network element. The candidate AMF network element can determine its load information based on the first and second quantities. Then, the candidate AMF network element can send its load information to the base station.

[0078] For example, if the number of devices allowed to register for a candidate AMF network element is 100 (i.e., the first number is 100), and the number of devices registered for a candidate AMF network element is 30 (i.e., the second number is 30), then the load information can be 30%.

[0079] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the application, the AMF network element can collect its own load information in real time and send the load information to the base station.

[0080] S402. The base station receives load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group.

[0081] In one possible implementation, after each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group sends load information to the base station, the base station can receive the load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group.

[0082] In this embodiment of the application, S304 further includes S403.

[0083] S403. The base station determines the target AMF network element based on the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group.

[0084] Specifically, the target AMF network element is the AMF network element with the smallest load information in the target AMF network element group.

[0085] In one possible implementation, the base station can compare the load information of each AMF element in the target AMF element group and determine the AMF element with the smallest load information. The base station can then use the AMF element with the smallest load information as the target AMF element.

[0086] For example, suppose the target AMF network element group includes: AMF network element a, AMF network element b, and AMF network element c. If the load information of AMF network element a is 50%, the load information of AMF network element b is 60%, and the load information of AMF network element c is 30%, then the AMF network element with the smallest load information is AMF network element c, and the target AMF network element is AMF network element c.

[0087] In the embodiments of this application, such as Figure 5 As shown, the base station can select an AMF (Active Network Element) for the target device. Next, the base station can obtain the number of devices registered for each AMF network element. The base station can analyze the number of devices registered for each AMF network element to determine its load information. If the load information of the AMF network element is greater than a preset load threshold, the base station can reselect an AMF network element for the target device. If the load information of the AMF network element is less than the preset load threshold, the base station can send the identification information of the AMF network element to the target device.

[0088] This allows for the selection of appropriate AMF network elements for the target device, reducing the number of AMF network element selections, improving device registration efficiency, and reducing the processing load on the base station.

[0089] Understandably, the base station sends a load request message to each AMF element in the target AMF element group. Next, the base station receives load information from each AMF element to obtain the load information for each AMF element in the target AMF element group. Then, based on the load information of each AMF element in the target AMF element group, the base station selects the AMF element with the lowest load information as the target AMF element. In this way, the base station can select the AMF element with the lowest load information as the target AMF element, avoiding situations where the target AMF element cannot meet the needs of the target device, improving the accuracy of AMF element selection, reducing the number of AMF element reselections, thereby reducing network resource consumption and improving device registration efficiency.

[0090] In some embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, before the base station determines the first weight value and the second weight value (S302), the method for determining the network element also includes: S601-S604.

[0091] S601, The base station obtains network element information of multiple AMF network elements.

[0092] The network element information includes: type identifier and number of registered devices.

[0093] In one possible design, the type identifier could be network slice information.

[0094] In one possible implementation, each of the multiple AMF network elements can send network element information to the other AMF network element. The base station can receive the network element information from each of the multiple AMF network elements to obtain the network element information of the multiple AMF network elements.

[0095] S602. The base station classifies multiple AMF network elements according to the type identifier in the network element information, and determines the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group.

[0096] In one possible design, the base station stores a target mapping relationship, which is the mapping relationship between the type identifier of the AMF network element and the AMF network element group.

[0097] For example, the target correspondence may include: Identifier 1 corresponds to the first AMF network element group, and Identifier 2 corresponds to the second AMF network element group. That is, when the type identifier of the AMF network element is Identifier 1, the AMF network element belongs to the first AMF network element group; when the type identifier of the AMF network element is Identifier 2, the AMF network element belongs to the second AMF network element group.

[0098] In one possible implementation, the base station can classify multiple AMF network elements based on the target correspondence and the type identifier in the network element information to determine the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group.

[0099] For example, suppose multiple AMF network elements include: AMF network element a, AMF network element b, AMF network element c, AMF network element d, AMF network element e, and AMF network element f. If the type identifiers of AMF network element a, AMF network element b, AMF network element c, AMF network element d, AMF network element e, and AMF network element f are all Identifier 1, then the first AMF network element includes: AMF network element a, AMF network element b, AMF network element c, and AMF network element d, and the second AMF network element includes: AMF network element e and AMF network element f.

[0100] S603. The base station determines the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group.

[0101] For example, suppose the first AMF network element includes: AMF network element a, AMF network element b, AMF network element c, and AMF network element d. If the number of registered devices for AMF network element a is 50, the number of registered devices for AMF network element b is 70, and the number of registered devices for AMF network element c is 30, then the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group is 150.

[0102] S604. The base station determines the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group.

[0103] For example, suppose the second AMF network element includes: AMF network element e and AMF network element f. If the number of registered devices for AMF network element e is 60 and the number of registered devices for AMF network element f is 40, then the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group is 100.

[0104] In this embodiment of the application, S302 further includes S605.

[0105] S605. The base station determines the first weight value and the second weight value based on the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group and the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group.

[0106] For example, if the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group is 150 and the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group is 100, then the first weight value is 0.6 and the second weight value is 0.4.

[0107] Understandably, the base station can obtain network element information for multiple AMF (Advanced Feature Format) network elements, including type identifiers and the number of registered devices. Next, the base station can classify the multiple AMF network elements based on the type identifiers in the network element information, determining a first AMF network element group and a second AMF network element group. This reduces the probability of incorrect AMF network element selection. Then, the base station can determine the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group. Similarly, the base station can determine the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group. Finally, the base station can determine a first weight value and a second weight value based on the total number of registered devices in the first and second AMF network element groups. In this way, the base station can obtain the weight values ​​of the first and second AMF network element groups to select AMF network elements for the target device.

[0108] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7As shown, before determining the first weight value and the second weight value (S302), the method for determining the network element may also include: S701-S702.

[0109] S701. The base station determines whether the registration request message includes identification information.

[0110] The identification information refers to the identification information of the AMF network element.

[0111] In one possible design, the identification information can be a globally unique AMF identifier (GUAMI) within a globally unique temporary identifier (GUTI).

[0112] In one possible implementation, the base station can determine whether the registration request message contains information identical to the identification information.

[0113] In one possible design, if the registration request message contains information identical to the identification information, the base station can determine that the registration request message includes the identification information.

[0114] In this embodiment, if the registration request message includes identification information, the base station can determine whether the AMF network element corresponding to the identification information allows the target device to connect. If the AMF network element corresponding to the identification information does not allow the target device to connect, the base station can execute S602.

[0115] In another possible design, if the registration request message does not contain information identical to the identification information, the base station can determine that the registration request message does not include the identification information.

[0116] In this embodiment of the application, if the registration request message does not include identification information, the base station can execute S702.

[0117] S702. The base station determines whether the registration request message includes network slicing information.

[0118] In one possible implementation, the base station can determine whether the registration request message contains information identical to the identification information.

[0119] In one possible design, if the registration request message contains information identical to network slice information, the base station can determine that the registration request message includes network slice information.

[0120] In this embodiment, if the registration request message includes network slice information, the base station can determine whether the AMF network element corresponding to the network slice information allows the target device to connect. If the AMF network element corresponding to the network slice information does not allow the target device to connect, the base station can execute S302.

[0121] In another possible design, if the registration request message does not contain information identical to the network slice information, the base station can determine that the registration request message does not include network slice information.

[0122] In this embodiment of the application, if the registration request message does not include network slicing information, the base station can execute S302.

[0123] In other words, if the registration request message does not include identification information and does not include network slice information, the base station can determine the first weight value and the second weight value.

[0124] It should be noted that, in this application, the execution order of S601-S604 and S701-S702 is not limited. For example, the base station can execute S701-S702 first, and then execute S601-S604. Alternatively, the base station can execute S601-S604 first, and then execute S701-S702. Yet another example is that the base station can execute S601-S604 and S701-S702 simultaneously.

[0125] Understandably, the base station can determine whether the registration request message includes identification information. If the registration request message does not include identification information, the base station can determine whether it includes network slice information. If the registration request message does not include network slice information, the base station can determine a first weight value and a second weight value. In this way, the base station can select an AMF network element for the target terminal even if the registration request message does not include identification information or network slice information.

[0126] The method for determining network elements in this application will be described below with specific embodiments. (In conjunction with...) Figure 1 ,like Figure 8 As shown, when the registration message does not include identification information or network slice information, the base station can obtain the weight values ​​of the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group. Based on these weight values, the base station can determine the target AMF network element group from the first and second AMF network element groups. Then, the base station can obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. Based on this load information, the base station can determine the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group. Afterward, the base station can send a registration message to the target AMF network element.

[0127] The above description primarily focuses on the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of computer devices. It is understood that, in order to achieve the aforementioned functions, the computer device includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the methods and steps for determining network elements in the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed through hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0128] This application also provides a device for determining a network element. This device can be a computer device, a CPU within the aforementioned computer device, a module within the aforementioned computer device used for determining network elements, or a client within the aforementioned computer device used for determining network elements.

[0129] This application embodiment can divide the determination of network elements into functional modules or functional units according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional module or functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The integrated module can be implemented in hardware or in software functional modules or functional units. The module or unit division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division; other division methods may be used in actual implementation.

[0130] like Figure 9 The diagram shown is a structural schematic of a network element determination device provided in an embodiment of this application. The network element determination device is used to perform... Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The method for determining network elements is shown. The device for determining network elements may include an acquisition module 901, a processing module 902, and a transmission module 903.

[0131] The acquisition module 901 is used to acquire a registration request message from a target device, which indicates a request to access the network. The processing module 902 is used to respond to the registration request message by determining a first weight value and a second weight value. The first weight value is the weight value of a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element group, and the second weight value is the weight value of a second AMF network element group. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving IoT devices. The weight value reflects the number of devices registered in the AMF network element groups. The processing module 902 is further used to determine a target AMF network element group from the first and second AMF network element groups based on the first and second weight values. The target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first and second weight values. The processing module 902 is also used to determine a target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group. The target AMF network element is any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The sending module 903 is used to send a registration response message to the target device. The registration response message is used to instruct the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element.

[0132] Optionally, the sending module 903 is further configured to send a load request message to each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, the load request message being used to request the load information of the AMF network element. The obtaining module 901 is further configured to receive the load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The processing module 902 is specifically configured to determine the target AMF network element based on the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, the target AMF network element being the AMF network element with the smallest load information in the target AMF network element group.

[0133] Optionally, the acquisition module 901 is further configured to acquire network element information of multiple AMF network elements, including type identifiers and device registration counts. The processing module 902 is further configured to classify the multiple AMF network elements according to the type identifiers in the network element information, determining a first AMF network element group and a second AMF network element group. The processing module 902 is further configured to determine the sum of device registration counts in the first AMF network element group based on the device registration counts in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group. The processing module 902 is further configured to determine the sum of device registration counts in the second AMF network element group based on the device registration counts in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group. Specifically, the processing module 902 is configured to determine a first weight value and a second weight value based on the sum of device registration counts in the first AMF network element group and the sum of device registration counts in the second AMF network element group.

[0134] Optionally, the processing module 902 is specifically used to determine the first weight value and the second weight value if the registration request message does not include identification information and the registration request message does not include network slice information, and the identification information is the identification information of the AMF network element.

[0135] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the hardware structure of a network element determination device according to an exemplary embodiment. The network element determination device may include a processor 1001, which is used to execute application code to implement the network element determination method of this application.

[0136] The processor 1001 may be a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits used to control the execution of the program of the present application.

[0137] like Figure 10 As shown, the network element determination device may further include a memory 1002. The memory 1002 stores application code that executes the scheme of this application, and its execution is controlled by the processor 1001.

[0138] The memory 1002 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device capable of storing static information and instructions, random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device capable of storing information and instructions, or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compressed optical discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital universal optical discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and accessible by a computer, but not limited thereto. The memory 1002 may exist independently and be connected to the processor 1001 via bus 1004. The memory 1002 may also be integrated with the processor 1001.

[0139] like Figure 10As shown, the network element determination device may further include a communication interface 1003, wherein the processor 1001, memory 1002, and communication interface 1003 may be coupled to each other, for example, through a bus 1004. The communication interface 1003 is used for information exchange with other devices, for example, supporting information exchange between the network element determination device and other devices.

[0140] It should be pointed out that, Figure 10 The device structure shown does not constitute a limitation on the device for determining the network element, except... Figure 10 In addition to the components shown, the device for determining the network element may include more or fewer components than shown, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0141] In actual implementation, the functions implemented by processing module 902 can be derived by... Figure 10 The processor 1001 shown calls the program code in memory 1002 to implement this.

[0142] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed by a processor of a computer device, enable the computer to perform the method for determining a network element provided in the embodiments described above. For example, the computer-readable storage medium may be a memory 1002 including instructions, which may be executed by a processor 1001 of a computer device to complete the method described above. Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as a ROM, RAM, CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, or optical data storage device.

[0143] Figure 11 A conceptual partial view of a computer program product provided in an embodiment of this application is shown schematically. The computer program product includes a computer program for executing computer processes on a computing device.

[0144] In one embodiment, a computer program product is provided using a signal carrying medium 1100. The signal carrying medium 1100 may include one or more program instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, can provide the above-mentioned pins. Figure 3 , Figure 4 , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 The functions or parts thereof described in [the document]. Therefore, for example, refer to [the document / reference]. Figure 3 In the embodiment shown, one or more features of S301 to S305 can be fulfilled by one or more instructions associated with the signal carrying medium 1100. Furthermore, Figure 11The program instructions in the document also describe example instructions.

[0145] In some examples, the signal carrying medium 1100 may include a computer-readable medium 1101, such as, but not limited to, a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), a digital magnetic tape, a memory, a read-only memory (ROM), or a random access memory (RAM), etc.

[0146] In some implementations, the signal carrying medium 1100 may include a computer recordable medium 1102, such as, but not limited to, a memory, a read / write (R / W) CD, a R / W DVD, and so on.

[0147] In some implementations, the signal carrying medium 1100 may include a communication medium 1103, such as, but not limited to, digital and / or analog communication media (e.g., fiber optic cables, waveguides, wired communication links, wireless communication links, etc.).

[0148] The signal-bearing medium 1100 can be transmitted by a wireless communication medium 1103. One or more program instructions can be, for example, computer-executable instructions or logical implementation instructions.

[0149] In some examples, such as targeting Figure 9 The described network element determination device can be configured to provide various operations, functions, or actions in response to one or more program instructions in a computer-readable medium 1101, a computer-recordable medium 1102, and / or a communication medium 1103.

[0150] Through the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, only the division of the above functional modules is used as an example. In actual applications, the above functions can be assigned to different functional modules as needed, that is, the internal structure of the device can be divided into different functional modules to complete all or part of the functions described above.

[0151] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of modules or units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another apparatus, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0152] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. A component shown as a unit can be one or more physical units; that is, it can be located in one place or distributed in multiple different locations. Some or all of the constituent units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment, depending on actual needs.

[0153] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0154] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the embodiments of this application, essentially, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a complete or partial classification of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a device (which may be a microcontroller, chip, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods of the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0155] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for determining a network element, characterized in that, The method includes: Obtain the registration request message of the target device, the registration request message being used to indicate a request to access the network; In response to the registration request message, a first weight value and a second weight value are determined. The first weight value is the weight value of a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element group, and the second weight value is the weight value of a second AMF network element group. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The weight value reflects the number of devices registered in the AMF network element group; a larger weight value indicates a larger number of devices registered in the AMF network element group. Based on the first weight value and the second weight value, a target AMF network element group is determined from the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group. The target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first weight value and the second weight value. A target AMF network element is determined from the target AMF network element group, wherein the target AMF network element is any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group; A registration response message is sent to the target device, which instructs the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before determining the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group, the method further includes: A load request message is sent to each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The load request message is used to request the load information of the AMF network element. Receive load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group; The step of determining the target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group includes: Based on the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, the target AMF network element is determined. Specifically, the target AMF network element is the AMF network element with the smallest load information in the target AMF network element group.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before determining the first weight value and the second weight value, the method further includes: Obtain network element information for multiple AMF network elements, wherein the network element information includes: type identifier and number of registered devices; Based on the type identifier in the network element information, multiple AMF network elements are classified to determine the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group; Based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group, determine the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group; Based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group, determine the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group; Determining the first weight value and the second weight value includes: The first weight value and the second weight value are determined based on the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group and the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Determining the first weight value and the second weight value includes: If the registration request message does not include identification information and does not include network slice information, then the first weight value and the second weight value are determined, and the identification information is the identification information of the AMF network element.

5. A device for determining a network element, characterized in that, The device includes: The acquisition module is used to acquire the registration request message of the target device, wherein the registration request message is used to indicate a request to access the network; The processing module is configured to respond to the registration request message by determining a first weight value and a second weight value. The first weight value is the weight value of a first Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element group, and the second weight value is the weight value of a second AMF network element group. The first AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving user equipment, and the second AMF network element group includes at least one AMF network element for serving Internet of Things (IoT) devices. The weight value reflects the number of devices registered in the AMF network element group; a larger weight value indicates a larger number of devices registered in the AMF network element group. The processing module is further configured to determine a target AMF network element group from the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group based on the first weight value and the second weight value, wherein the target AMF network element group is the AMF network element group corresponding to the largest weight value among the first weight value and the second weight value; The processing module is further configured to determine a target AMF network element from the target AMF network element group, wherein the target AMF network element is any AMF network element in the target AMF network element group; The sending module is used to send a registration response message to the target device, the registration response message being used to instruct the target device to access the network through the target AMF network element.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sending module is further configured to send a load request message to each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group, wherein the load request message is used to request the load information of the AMF network element; The acquisition module is further configured to receive load information from each AMF network element to obtain the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The processing module is specifically used to determine the target AMF network element based on the load information of each AMF network element in the target AMF network element group. The target AMF network element is specifically the AMF network element with the smallest load information in the target AMF network element group.

7. The apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The acquisition module is further configured to acquire network element information of multiple AMF network elements, the network element information including: type identifier and number of registered devices; The processing module is further configured to classify multiple AMF network elements according to the type identifier in the network element information, and determine the first AMF network element group and the second AMF network element group; The processing module is further configured to determine the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the first AMF network element group; The processing module is further configured to determine the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group based on the number of registered devices in the network element information of each AMF network element in the second AMF network element group; The processing module is specifically used to determine the first weight value and the second weight value based on the total number of registered devices in the first AMF network element group and the total number of registered devices in the second AMF network element group.

8. The apparatus according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The processing module is specifically used to determine the first weight value and the second weight value if the registration request message does not include identification information and the registration request message does not include network slice information, wherein the identification information is the identification information of the AMF network element.

9. A device for determining a network element, characterized in that, include: Processor and memory; The processor and the memory are coupled; The memory is used to store one or more programs, which include computer-executable instructions. When the network element determination device is running, the processor executes the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory to cause the network element determination device to perform the network element determination method as described in any one of claims 1-4.

10. A computer-readable storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that, When the computer executes the instruction, the computer performs the method for determining the network element as described in any one of claims 1-4.

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