N19 tunnel establishment method, data transmission method, device and apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide a kind of N19 tunnel establishment method, data transmission method, equipment and device, wherein applied to session management function entity, the N19 tunnel establishment method includes: determining one or more anchor point user face function entity PSA group;Each PSA group includes a center PSA, and the center PSA is used to forward the data transmitted between member PSA in group and / or between PSA group;Member PSA in one or more PSA groups all belong to the same virtual network group;N4 session request message is sent to PSA in each PSA group, and N4 session request message is used to establish target N19 tunnel network;In target N19 tunnel network, member PSA in the same PSA group is established N19 tunnel between each other and center PSA.Thereby, the interaction times between session management function entity and PSA can be reduced, and transmission resource is saved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of wireless communication technology, and in particular to an N19 tunnel establishment method, data transmission method, device and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] 5G Local Area Network (LAN) technology is used to enable data transmission between one or more terminals (also known as User Equipment (UE)) within the same 5G Virtual Network (VN) group. In existing technologies, when data transmission is performed based on N19 tunnels in LAN scenarios (e.g., 5G LAN scenarios), after the N19 tunnel for the entire 5G VN group is established, if an additional UE is added to the group, resulting in a new Protocol Data Unit (PDU) Session Anchor (PSA), triggered by a management platform or application function (AF), the Session Management Function (SMF) needs to establish N19 tunnels between the PSAs of all existing group member UEs and the new PSAs. This leads to frequent interactions between the user plane PSAs and the control plane SMF, resulting in resource waste. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides an N19 tunnel establishment method, data transmission method, device, and apparatus to reduce the number of interactions between the control plane SMF and the user plane PSA, thereby saving transmission resources.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an N19 tunnel establishment method, applied to a session management function entity, including:

[0005] One or more anchor user plane functional entity (PSA) groups are identified; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups; all member PSAs in the one or more PSA groups belong to the same virtual network group.

[0006] Send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group. The N4 session request message is used to establish the target N19 tunnel network.

[0007] In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0008] Optionally, if there is only one PSA group, no N19 tunnels are established between member PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network.

[0009] Optionally, if there are multiple PSA groups, in the target N19 tunnel network, N19 tunnels are established between each central PSA in pairs.

[0010] Optionally, in the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

[0011] Optionally, sending an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group includes:

[0012] If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each of the central PSAs. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

[0013] Optionally, determining one or more PSA groups includes:

[0014] One or more PSA groups are determined based on any one or more of the PSA's geographic location information, local configuration information, and received policy information.

[0015] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0016] If the PSA in the target PSA group changes, perform an N19 tunnel update on the central PSA of the target PSA group.

[0017] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0018] Based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions, select the PSA corresponding to the terminal.

[0019] Optionally, the central PSA includes user plane function entities with non-PSA attributes and / or user plane function entities with PSA attributes.

[0020] Optionally, the central PSA and the member PSA belong to the same virtual network group, or the central PSA and the member PSA belong to different virtual network groups.

[0021] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a data transmission method applied to a member anchor user plane functional entity (PSA), comprising:

[0022] If the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs;

[0023] Both the central PSA and the member PSAs are PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0024] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a data transmission method applied to a central anchor point user plane functional entity (PSA), comprising:

[0025] Determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet;

[0026] Determine the appropriate data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs;

[0027] The central PSA is a PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0028] Optionally, determining the corresponding data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs includes:

[0029] If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the target PSA; or,

[0030] If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

[0031] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a session management function entity, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor:

[0032] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0033] One or more anchor user plane functional entity (PSA) groups are identified; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups; all member PSAs in the one or more PSA groups belong to the same virtual network group.

[0034] Send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group. The N4 session request message is used to establish the target N19 tunnel network.

[0035] In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0036] Optionally, if there is only one PSA group, no N19 tunnels are established between member PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network.

[0037] Optionally, if there are multiple PSA groups, in the target N19 tunnel network, N19 tunnels are established between each central PSA in pairs.

[0038] Optionally, in the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

[0039] Optionally, sending an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group includes:

[0040] If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each of the central PSAs. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

[0041] Optionally, determining one or more PSA groups includes:

[0042] One or more PSA groups are determined based on any one or more of the PSA's geographic location information, local configuration information, and received policy information.

[0043] Optionally, the operation further includes:

[0044] If the PSA in the target PSA group changes, perform an N19 tunnel update on the central PSA of the target PSA group.

[0045] Optionally, the operation further includes:

[0046] Based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions, select the PSA corresponding to the terminal.

[0047] Optionally, the central PSA includes user plane function entities with non-PSA attributes and / or user plane function entities with PSA attributes.

[0048] Optionally, the central PSA and the member PSA belong to the same virtual network group, or the central PSA and the member PSA belong to different virtual network groups.

[0049] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a member anchor user plane functional entity (PSA), including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor.

[0050] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0051] If the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs;

[0052] Both the central PSA and the member PSAs are PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0053] Sixthly, embodiments of this application also provide a central anchor user plane functional entity (PSA), including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor:

[0054] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0055] Determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet;

[0056] Determine the appropriate data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs;

[0057] The central PSA is a PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0058] Optionally, determining the corresponding data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs includes:

[0059] If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the target PSA; or,

[0060] If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

[0061] Seventhly, embodiments of this application also provide an N19 tunnel establishment apparatus, applied to a session management function entity, including:

[0062] The first determining unit is used to determine one or more anchor user plane functional entity PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups; the member PSAs in the one or more PSA groups all belong to the same virtual network group.

[0063] The first sending unit is used to send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group, the N4 session request message being used to establish a target N19 tunnel network;

[0064] In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0065] Eighthly, embodiments of this application also provide a data transmission apparatus applied to a member anchor point user plane functional entity (PSA), comprising:

[0066] The forwarding unit is used to forward the data packet to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs when it is impossible to determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet.

[0067] Both the central PSA and the member PSAs are PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0068] Ninthly, embodiments of this application also provide a data transmission apparatus applied to a central anchor point user plane functional entity (PSA), comprising:

[0069] The second determining unit is used to determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet;

[0070] The second forwarding unit is used to determine the corresponding data forwarding method according to the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs;

[0071] The central PSA is a PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0072] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program configured to cause a computer to perform the steps of the N19 tunnel establishment method described in the first aspect, or the steps of the data transmission method described in the second aspect, or the steps of the data transmission method described in the third aspect.

[0073] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application also provide a communication device, wherein the communication device stores a computer program, the computer program being used to cause the communication device to perform the steps of the N19 tunnel establishment method described in the first aspect above, or to perform the steps of the data transmission method described in the second aspect above, or to perform the steps of the data transmission method described in the third aspect above.

[0074] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a processor-readable storage medium storing a computer program configured to cause a processor to perform the steps of the N19 tunnel establishment method described in the first aspect, or the steps of the data transmission method described in the second aspect, or the steps of the data transmission method described in the third aspect.

[0075] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a chip product, wherein the chip product stores a computer program, the computer program being configured to cause the chip product to perform the steps of the N19 tunnel establishment method described in the first aspect above, or the steps of the data transmission method described in the second aspect above, or the steps of the data transmission method described in the third aspect above.

[0076] The N19 tunnel establishment method, data transmission method, device, and apparatus provided in this application establish an N19 tunnel network using PSA groups as units. Each PSA group has a central PSA as a relay for the N19 tunnels. Member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA. This allows the session management function entity to avoid updating the N19 tunnels for all PSAs when a PSA changes, thereby reducing the number of interactions between the session management function entity and the PSAs and saving transmission resources. Attached Figure Description

[0077] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or related technologies of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0078] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the non-roaming user plane architecture that supports 5G LAN-type services through the N19 tunnel, provided by related technologies.

[0079] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the tunnel establishment process in the N19 switching scenario provided by related technologies;

[0080] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the N19 tunnel establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0081] Figure 4 This is one of the flowcharts illustrating the data transmission method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0082] Figure 5 This is a second schematic flowchart of the data transmission method provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0083] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel establishment process provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0084] Figure 7 This is one of the N19 tunnel network schematic diagrams provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0085] Figure 8 This is the second schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0086] Figure 9 This is the third schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel network provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0087] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the session management function entity provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0088] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the member PSA provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0089] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the central PSA provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0090] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the N19 tunnel establishment device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0091] Figure 14 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the data transmission device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0092] Figure 15 This is a second schematic diagram of the data transmission device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0093] In the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" describes the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following associated objects have an "or" relationship.

[0094] In the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more, and other quantifiers are similar.

[0095] 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 a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0096] To facilitate a clearer understanding of the embodiments of this application, some technical content related to the embodiments of this application will be introduced first.

[0097] 5G LAN technology is a technology that enables data transmission between one or more UEs within the same 5G VN group. It is divided into three transmission modes: local switching, N6 switching, and N19 switching. The following mainly introduces the session establishment process in the N19 switching scenario.

[0098] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the non-roaming user plane architecture supporting 5G LAN type services through the N19 tunnel is provided for related technologies, such as... Figure 1 As shown, during N19-based transmission, uplink / downlink traffic in 5G VN group communication is forwarded between PSAs of different PDU sessions via the N19 interface. N19 is based on a shared user plane tunnel, connecting different PSAs within a single 5G VN group. If N19-based forwarding is required, the SMF establishes an N19 tunnel between PSAs to support N19-based traffic forwarding. In the diagram, (R)AN refers to the Access Network (AN) or Radio Access Network (RAN) node, and I-UPF refers to the User Plane Function (UPF).

[0099] Figure 2 A flowchart of the tunnel establishment process for the N19 switching scenario provided for related technologies, such as Figure 2 As shown in the figure, taking the establishment of the user plane tunnel for group members UE1 to UE3 as an example, its main process includes:

[0100] 1. UE1 initiates a PDU session establishment request;

[0101] 2. After receiving the PDU session establishment request from the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), the SMF selects PSA1 and sends a group-level N4 establishment request to PSA1. PSA1 allocates its own N19 tunnel information and sends it to the SMF.

[0102] 3. UE2 initiates a PDU session establishment request;

[0103] 4. After receiving the PDU session establishment request from the AMF, the SMF selects PSA2 and sends a group-level N4 establishment request to PSA2. The request carries the N19 tunnel information of PSA1. PSA2 allocates its own N19 tunnel information and sends it to the SMF.

[0104] 5. SMF sends a group-level N4 modification request to PSA1, which carries the N19 tunnel information of PSA2;

[0105] 6. UE3 initiates a PDU session establishment request;

[0106] 7. After receiving the PDU session establishment request from the AMF, the SMF selects PSA3 and sends a group-level N4 establishment request to PSA3. The request carries the N19 tunnel information of PSA1 and PSA2. PSA3 allocates its own N19 tunnel information and sends it to the SMF.

[0107] 8. SMF sends a group-level N4 modification request to PSA1, which carries the N19 tunnel information of PSA3;

[0108] 9. SMF sends a group-level N4 modification request to PSA2, which carries the N19 tunnel information of PSA3.

[0109] Currently, in 5G LAN scenarios, when data transmission is performed based on N19 tunnels, after the N19 tunnel for the entire 5GVN group is established, if a new PSA is added due to the addition of a member UE, such as through a management platform or application function, the SMF needs to establish N19 tunnels between the new PSA and the PSA corresponding to all member UEs with established sessions. This results in frequent interactions between the user plane PSA and the control plane SMF, leading to resource waste. Therefore, the embodiments of this application provide a solution to reduce the number of interactions between the control plane SMF and the user plane PSA, saving transmission resources.

[0110] For example, although the 5G VN group is used as an example in this document, it is not limiting. Other existing or future groups that can implement the functions of the 5G VN group, as is known to those skilled in the art, can also be applied here without limitation.

[0111] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the N19 tunnel establishment method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be applied to session management function entities, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0112] Step 300: Determine one or more anchor user plane functional entity PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups; all member PSAs in one or more PSA groups belong to the same virtual network group;

[0113] Specifically, the session management function entity can be an SMF or other network element with similar session management functions. In this embodiment, after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE within the same VN group, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into one or more PSA groups, and set up a central PSA in each PSA group. The central PSA acts as a relay for the N19 tunnel, used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups. A member PSA can be understood as any PSA within a PSA group other than the central PSA, and all member PSAs in the aforementioned one or more PSA groups belong to the same VN group.

[0114] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the anchor user plane function entity can refer to the PDU session anchor point PSA in the 5G core network, i.e., the UPF of the PSA attribute, or it can refer to other network elements with similar PDU session anchor point functions. Therefore, the PSA mentioned in this application is not limited to the PDU session anchor point PSA in the 5G core network, but can also be understood as other network elements with similar PDU session anchor point functions.

[0115] Optionally, the aforementioned central PSA may include user plane functional entities with non-PSA attributes and / or user plane functional entities with PSA attributes. That is, the central PSA can be a user plane functional entity with PSA attributes, such as a UPF with PSA attributes; or it can be a user plane functional entity without PSA attributes, such as a regular UPF. It should be noted that although the central PSA can be a user plane functional entity without PSA attributes, the "PSA in a PSA group" described in the embodiments of this application is not limited to member PSAs, but may also include the central PSA without PSA attributes.

[0116] The central PSAs in one or more of the above PSA groups can all be user-face functional entities with non-PSA attributes; or all of them can be user-face functional entities with PSA attributes; or some central PSAs can be user-face functional entities with non-PSA attributes and some central PSAs can be user-face functional entities with PSA attributes, etc., without any restrictions.

[0117] Optionally, the central PSA and member PSAs belong to the same virtual network group, or the central PSA and member PSAs belong to different virtual network groups. For example, for a PSA group, its central PSA can be one of the PSAs corresponding to each member UE within the same VN group, or it can be a PSA from another VN group (i.e., a different VN group than the member PSAs).

[0118] Step 301: Send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group. The N4 session request message is used to establish the target N19 tunnel network.

[0119] In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0120] Specifically, after determining the PSA group, the session management function entity can send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group to establish a target N19 tunnel network. In this target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish an N19 tunnel with the central PSA. In other words, the target N19 tunnel network is established based on PSA groups. For any PSA group, all member PSAs within the PSA group establish an N19 tunnel with the central PSA within the PSA group.

[0121] To establish the target N19 tunnel network, the session management function entity can send corresponding N4 session request messages to each PSA in each PSA group based on the tunnel connection relationships between PSAs in each PSA group of the target N19 tunnel network, thereby establishing the corresponding N19 tunnels. When a PSA changes in the tunnel network, such as when a new PSA is added, the session management function entity does not need to establish N19 tunnels between all PSAs and the new PSA. Instead, it can only update the N19 tunnels for the PSAs in the PSA group to which the new PSA belongs (such as the central PSA), thereby effectively reducing the number of N19 tunnels and the number of interactions between the control plane and the user plane, saving transmission resources.

[0122] The N19 tunnel establishment method provided in this application establishes an N19 tunnel network based on PSA groups. Each PSA group has a central PSA as a relay for the N19 tunnels. Member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA. This allows the session management function entity to avoid updating the N19 tunnels for all PSAs when a PSA changes, thereby reducing the number of interactions between the session management function entity and the PSAs and saving transmission resources.

[0123] Optionally, if there is only one PSA group, no N19 tunnels are established between member PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network.

[0124] Specifically, in this embodiment of the application, the session management function entity can determine the PSA corresponding to each member UE in the same VN group, treat all PSAs as a large group, and set up a central PSA in the PSA group. Based on the PSA group, a target N19 tunnel network is established. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with the unique central PSA, but member PSAs do not establish N19 tunnels with each other. Data transmitted between member PSAs can be forwarded through the central PSA.

[0125] Optionally, when there are multiple PSA groups, in the target N19 tunnel network, each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other.

[0126] Specifically, in this embodiment of the application, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into multiple PSA groups after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE in the same VN group. Each PSA group has a central PSA. In the target N19 tunnel network established based on the multiple PSA groups, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and the central PSAs of each PSA group establish N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. Thus, the data transmitted between PSA groups can be forwarded through the central PSA.

[0127] Optionally, in the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

[0128] Specifically, in this embodiment, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into multiple PSA groups after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE within the same VN group. Each PSA group has a central PSA. In the target N19 tunnel network established based on these multiple PSA groups, not only do all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA, but the central PSAs of each PSA group also establish N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. Furthermore, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. That is, within a PSA group, a member PSA can establish an N19 tunnel only with the central PSA of that PSA group, or all PSAs in that PSA group can interconnect in pairs to establish N19 tunnels.

[0129] Optionally, an N4 session request message is sent to each PSA in the PSA group, including:

[0130] If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each central PSA. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

[0131] Specifically, during the establishment of the target tunnel network, the session management function entity can first send session messages (such as N4 session messages) to the PSAs in each PSA group, instructing each PSA to establish the required N19 tunnels within its respective PSA group. Then, after confirming that each PSA group has established its own N19 tunnels, it sends a group-level N4 session modification request message to each central PSA. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of other central PSAs (excluding the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message), thereby establishing N19 tunnels between each pair of central PSAs.

[0132] For example, assuming there are three PSA groups, and the central PSAs of the three PSA groups are C-PSA1, C-PSA2, and C-PSA3, the session management function entity can, after determining that all three PSA groups have established intra-group N19 tunnels, send a group-level N4 session modification request message to C-PSA1, carrying the N19 tunnel information of C-PSA2 and C-PSA3 in the group-level N4 session modification request message; send a group-level N4 session modification request message to C-PSA2, carrying the N19 tunnel information of C-PSA1 and C-PSA3 in the group-level N4 session modification request message; and send a group-level N4 session modification request message to C-PSA3, carrying the N19 tunnel information of C-PSA1 and C-PSA2 in the group-level N4 session modification request message.

[0133] The N19 tunnel establishment method provided in this application embodiment allows the session management function entity to send a group-level N4 session modification request message to each central PSA after determining that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each PSA group. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of other central PSAs (excluding the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message), thereby reducing the number of interactions between the session management function entity and the central PSA and saving transmission resources.

[0134] Optionally, one or more PSA groups are identified, including:

[0135] One or more PSA groups are determined based on any one or more of the PSA's geographic location information, local configuration information, and received policy information.

[0136] Specifically, in this embodiment of the application, after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE within the same VN group, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into one or more PSA groups based on any one or more of the following information:

[0137] a. Geographical location information of each PSA; for example, PSAs that are geographically close can be grouped together.

[0138] b. Local configuration information; such as PSA packet information pre-configured by network administrators in the session management function entity;

[0139] c. Received policy information; for example, PSA packet policies sent by other network elements (such as AF) to the session management function entity.

[0140] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0141] If the PSA in the target PSA group changes, perform N19 tunnel update on the central PSA of the target PSA group.

[0142] Specifically, in the embodiments of this application, for the established target N19 tunnel network, when a PSA change occurs in the tunnel network (such as adding or deleting a PSA), the session management function entity can perform N19 tunnel updates on the central PSA in the corresponding target PSA group, without having to perform N19 tunnel updates on all PSAs, thereby effectively reducing the number of interactions between the control plane and the user plane and saving transmission resources.

[0143] For example, when adding a new PSA, the session management function entity can, after determining the PSA group to which the new PSA belongs, only notify the central PSA of that PSA group to establish an N19 tunnel with the new PSA, without notifying other PSAs.

[0144] Optionally, when a new PSA is added as a separate PSA group, the session management function entity can only notify the central PSA of other PSA groups to establish an N19 tunnel with the newly added PSA, without notifying all PSAs. This can effectively reduce the number of interactions between the control plane and the user plane and save transmission resources.

[0145] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0146] Based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions, select the PSA corresponding to the terminal.

[0147] Specifically, in this application, the session management function entity can select the PSA corresponding to the terminal based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions.

[0148] For example, local configuration information can be the PSAs corresponding to each UE pre-configured by network administrators in the session management function entity. By pre-configuring, the number of PSAs can be minimized, thereby reducing the number of N19 tunnels that need to be established. Policy instructions can be PSA selection policies sent by other network elements (such as AF), instructing the session management function entity to select certain specific PSAs or a specific range of PSAs when selecting the PSA corresponding to the UE, thereby reducing the number of PSAs.

[0149] The N19 tunnel establishment method provided in this application embodiment allows the session management function entity to select the PSA corresponding to the terminal based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions, thereby minimizing the number of PSAs and reducing the number of interactions between the session management function entity and the PSA, thus saving transmission resources.

[0150] Figure 4 This is one of the flowcharts illustrating a data transmission method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method can be applied to member PSAs, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0151] Step 400: If the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs;

[0152] Both the central PSA and member PSAs are PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0153] Specifically, in the embodiments of this application, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into one or more PSA groups after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE in the same VN group, and set up a central PSA in each PSA group. The central PSA serves as a relay for the N19 tunnel and is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups.

[0154] After the PSA group is determined, the session management function entity can send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group to establish a target N19 tunnel network. In this target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs in the same PSA group establish an N19 tunnel with the central PSA. That is to say, the target N19 tunnel network is established on the basis of PSA groups. For any PSA group, all member PSAs in the PSA group establish an N19 tunnel with the central PSA in the PSA group.

[0155] After the N19 tunnel network is established, when any member PSA receives a data packet and cannot determine the target PSA corresponding to the data packet, the member PSA can forward the data packet to the central PSA in its PSA group. The central PSA can identify the PSA corresponding to all UEs, so the central PSA can determine the target PSA corresponding to the data packet it receives. Therefore, according to the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs, the central PSA can forward the data packet accordingly and finally transmit the data packet to the target PSA, which then transmits it to the target UE.

[0156] The data transmission method provided in this application establishes an N19 tunnel network based on PSA groups. Each PSA group has a central PSA that acts as a relay for the N19 tunnels. Member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA. This allows member PSAs to forward data packets to the central PSA in their respective PSA groups when they cannot determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet. This satisfies the data transmission requirements between UEs and also allows the session management function entity to avoid updating the N19 tunnels for all PSAs when PSAs change in the tunnel network. This reduces the number of interactions between the session management function entity and the PSAs, saving transmission resources.

[0157] Optionally, when there is only one PSA group, no N19 tunnels are established between member PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. That is, after determining the PSAs corresponding to each member UE in the same VN group, the session management function entity can group all PSAs into one large group and set up a central PSA in this PSA group. The target N19 tunnel network is established based on this PSA group. In this target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with the unique central PSA, but member PSAs do not establish N19 tunnels with each other. Data transmitted between member PSAs can be forwarded through the central PSA.

[0158] Optionally, when there are multiple PSA groups, in the target N19 tunnel network, each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other. That is, after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE in the same VN group, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into multiple PSA groups. Each PSA group has one central PSA. In the target N19 tunnel network established based on these multiple PSA groups, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and the central PSAs of each PSA group establish N19 tunnels with each other with each other. Thus, data transmitted between PSA groups can be forwarded through the central PSA.

[0159] Figure 5 This is a second flowchart illustrating the data transmission method provided in this application embodiment. This method can be applied to a central PSA, such as... Figure 5 As shown, the method includes the following steps:

[0160] Step 500: Determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet;

[0161] Step 501: Determine the appropriate data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs;

[0162] The central PSA is the PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0163] Specifically, in the embodiments of this application, the session management function entity can divide each PSA into one or more PSA groups after determining the PSA corresponding to each member UE in the same VN group, and set up a central PSA in each PSA group. The central PSA serves as a relay for the N19 tunnel and is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups.

[0164] After the PSA group is determined, the session management function entity can send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group to establish a target N19 tunnel network. In this target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs in the same PSA group establish an N19 tunnel with the central PSA. That is to say, the target N19 tunnel network is established on the basis of PSA groups. For any PSA group, all member PSAs in the PSA group establish an N19 tunnel with the central PSA in the PSA group.

[0165] After the N19 tunnel network is established, when any central PSA receives a data packet, it can first determine the target PSA corresponding to the data packet, and then determine the corresponding data forwarding method according to the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs. Finally, the data packet is transmitted to the target PSA, and then the target PSA transmits it to the target UE.

[0166] Optionally, the appropriate data forwarding method can be determined based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs, including:

[0167] If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, forward the data packet to the target PSA; or,

[0168] If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet will be forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

[0169] Specifically, if it is determined that the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, since the central PSA and its member PSAs in the group have established N19 tunnels, the central PSA can directly forward data packets to the target PSA.

[0170] If it is determined that the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, since the central PSA has established N19 tunnels with other central PSAs, the central PSA can determine the central PSA of the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs, and then forward the data packet to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs. The central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs will then forward the data packet to the target PSA.

[0171] The data transmission method provided in this application establishes an N19 tunnel network based on PSA groups. Each PSA group has a central PSA that acts as a relay for the N19 tunnels. Member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA. This satisfies the data transmission requirements between UEs and allows the session management function entity to avoid updating all PSAs with N19 tunnels when PSAs change in the tunnel network. This reduces the number of interactions between the session management function entity and the PSAs and saves transmission resources.

[0172] The methods provided in the various embodiments of this application are based on the same concept, so the implementation of each method can be referred to each other, and repeated parts will not be described again.

[0173] The methods provided in the above embodiments of this application are illustrated by specific examples below.

[0174] Example 1:

[0175] The SMF intervenes in the selection of PSAs through policies or configurations. Before data transmission, configuration / policies are sent to the SMF, instructing the SMF to select a PSA, thereby reducing the number of PSAs and thus reducing the number of N19 tunnels that need to be established. This can be done manually by network administrators at the SMF for each UE, or through policy instructions from other network elements, instructing the SMF to select certain specific PSAs or a specific range of PSAs.

[0176] Example 2:

[0177] The SMF acquires information from each PSA (all PSAs need to be selected). The SMF then divides all PSAs into groups based on geographical location, configuration, and policies. Each group can then select a C-PSA (central PSA) based on its configuration and policies. The characteristics of this group are as follows:

[0178] 1. Within the group, each PSA establishes an N19 tunnel in pairs;

[0179] 2. For PSA configurations other than C-PSA: When a UE address not in the current group is matched, switch to C-PSA;

[0180] 3. Each group establishes an N19 tunnel between its C-PSA units.

[0181] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel establishment process provided in the embodiments of this application, as follows: Figure 6 As shown, it mainly includes the following processes:

[0182] 1. The SMF determines whether all 5G VN group members have established a PDU session. If not, it uses the following call-up method to call up these UEs; if they have established a session, the SMF groups all selected PSAs. The basis for these groups may be:

[0183] a. Location information of each PSA;

[0184] b. Configuration information of the network administrator in SMF;

[0185] c. Policy information obtained by SMF, such as from AF.

[0186] SMF selects a central PSA (C-PSA) from each group randomly or according to configuration / strategy.

[0187] The process of a UE initiating a PDU session with another UE: The calling UE initiates a data transmission process to the called UE. The calling UE must first perform a PDU session establishment process, carrying the mobile phone number to identify the other UE (i.e., the called UE) in the PDU session establishment request message. The SMF determines whether a path exists between the calling and called UEs. If not, the SMF sends signaling to the called UE through the AMF to trigger the called UE's session establishment process. After the called UE's session is established, an inter-satellite link is established (if any), and then the calling UE can transmit data services.

[0188] 2-8. The process of establishing two N19 tunnels between PSAs within each group.

[0189] Taking the establishment of an N19 tunnel within Group 1 as an example, the SMF sends a group-level N4 session establishment request to C-PSA1. C-PSA1 allocates its N19 tunnel information and sends it to the SMF. Then, the SMF sends a group-level N4 session establishment request to PSA2, carrying the N19 tunnel information of C-PSA1. PSA2 allocates its N19 tunnel information and sends it to the SMF. Then, the SMF sends a group-level N4 session modification request to C-PSA1, carrying the N19 tunnel information of PSA2. Thus, N19 tunnels are established between each pair of PSAs within Group 1.

[0190] 9-11. The SMF sends group-level N4 session modification requests to each C-PSA, carrying N19 tunnel information of other C-PSA, that is, establishing pairs of N19 tunnels between each C-PSA.

[0191] It should be noted that:

[0192] 1) This process is performed after all group member PDU sessions have been established (after PSA selection is completed) but the N19 tunnel has not been established using a group-level N4 session.

[0193] 2) Figure 6 The execution order of A to C (the N19 tunnel establishment process within the 3 groups) is not important, and they may be carried out simultaneously.

[0194] 3) The central PSA mentioned above can also be any UPF with the same SMF (corresponding to the same SMF as each member PSA) (it can be in this 5G VN group or not in this 5G VN group).

[0195] Figure 7 This is one of the N19 tunnel network schematic diagrams provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the tunnel network includes 3 PSA groups, each PSA group has one C-PSA, and the PSAs within the PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs, and the C-PSAs of each PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

[0196] based on Figure 7 The tunnel network shown illustrates an example of data transmission from UE1 to UE2: When PSA1 matches the received data packet and identifies it as not being in its own flow table matching entry, it forwards it to PSA2 (C-PSA). PSA2 can identify all UEs' corresponding PSAs and forwards it to PSA9 (C-PSA) according to the flow table entry. PSA9 identifies UE2's corresponding PSA as PSA10 and forwards it, thus the data is forwarded to UE2. The aforementioned flow table can be issued by SMF during N4 establishment and modification.

[0197] Example 3:

[0198] Figure 8 This is the second schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel network provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 8 As shown, the difference between this and Embodiment 2 is that, referring to the selection of the central PSA in the multiple grouping scenarios in Embodiment 2, SMF selects only one C-PSA, that is, all PSAs are treated as one large group. It should be noted that:

[0199] 1) When any PSA in the group receives UE data that is to be forwarded to another PSA other than its own, it forwards it to the unique C-PSA, and then forwards it from the C-PSA.

[0200] 2) When any PSA is added or deleted within the group, only C-PSA1 needs to be notified, not all PSAs.

[0201] 3) The attributes of this C-PSA1 can be a normal UPF, any PSA of this 5G VN group, or a PSA of a non-this 5G VN group.

[0202] 4) This embodiment can be regarded as a special case of embodiment four.

[0203] Example 4:

[0204] Figure 9 This is the third schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel network provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 9 As shown, the tunnel network includes 3 PSA groups, and each PSA group has a C-PSA. Unlike Embodiment 2, in this embodiment, the PSAs in the PSA group are not interconnected in pairs, but only establish N19 tunnels with the C-PSA of the group.

[0205] The methods and apparatuses provided in the various embodiments of this application are based on the same concept. Since the methods and apparatuses solve problems in similar ways, the implementations of the apparatuses and methods can refer to each other, and repeated details will not be repeated.

[0206] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the session management function entity provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the session management function entity includes a memory 1020, a transceiver 1010, and a processor 1000; wherein the processor 1000 and the memory 1020 can also be physically arranged separately.

[0207] The memory 1020 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 1010 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor 1000.

[0208] Specifically, the transceiver 1010 is used to receive and send data under the control of the processor 1000.

[0209] Among them, Figure 10 In this application, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 1000 and memory represented by memory 1020 together. The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be further described herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 1010 can be multiple elements, including a transmitter and a receiver, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, and other transmission media.

[0210] The processor 1000 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, while the memory 1020 can store the data used by the processor 1000 when performing operations.

[0211] The processor 1000 can be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0212] The processor 1000 invokes a computer program stored in the memory 1020 to execute any of the methods provided in the embodiments of this application according to the obtained executable instructions, such as: determining one or more anchor user plane functional entity PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups; member PSAs in one or more PSA groups belong to the same virtual network group; sending an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group, the N4 session request message being used to establish a target N19 tunnel network; in the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0213] Optionally, if there is only one PSA group, no N19 tunnels are established between member PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network.

[0214] Optionally, when there are multiple PSA groups, in the target N19 tunnel network, each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other.

[0215] Optionally, in the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

[0216] Optionally, an N4 session request message is sent to each PSA in the PSA group, including:

[0217] If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each central PSA. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

[0218] Optionally, one or more PSA groups are identified, including:

[0219] One or more PSA groups are determined based on any one or more of the PSA's geographic location information, local configuration information, and received policy information.

[0220] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0221] If the PSA in the target PSA group changes, perform N19 tunnel update on the central PSA of the target PSA group.

[0222] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0223] Based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions, select the PSA corresponding to the terminal.

[0224] Optionally, the central PSA includes user-face functional entities with non-PSA attributes and / or user-face functional entities with PSA attributes.

[0225] Optionally, the central PSA and member PSAs belong to the same virtual network group, or the central PSA and member PSAs belong to different virtual network groups.

[0226] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the member PSA provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 11 As shown, the member PSA includes a memory 1120, a transceiver 1110, and a processor 1100; wherein the processor 1100 and the memory 1120 can also be physically arranged separately.

[0227] The memory 1120 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 1110 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor 1100.

[0228] Specifically, transceiver 1110 is used to receive and send data under the control of processor 1100.

[0229] Among them, Figure 11 In this application, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 1100 and memory represented by memory 1120 together. The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be further described herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 1110 can be multiple elements, including a transmitter and a receiver, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, and other transmission media.

[0230] The processor 1100 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 1120 can store the data used by the processor 1100 when performing operations.

[0231] The processor 1100 can be a CPU, ASIC, FPGA or CPLD, and the processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0232] The processor 1100 calls the computer program stored in the memory 1120 to execute any of the methods provided in the embodiments of this application according to the obtained executable instructions. For example, when the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs. Both the central PSA and the member PSA are PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs in the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0233] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the central PSA provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 12 As shown, the central PSA includes a memory 1220, a transceiver 1210, and a processor 1200; wherein the processor 1200 and the memory 1220 can also be physically arranged separately.

[0234] The memory 1220 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 1210 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor 1200.

[0235] Specifically, transceiver 1210 is used to receive and send data under the control of processor 1200.

[0236] Among them, Figure 12 In this application, the bus architecture may include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 1200 and memory represented by memory 1220 together. The bus architecture may also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be further described herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 1210 may be multiple elements, including a transmitter and a receiver, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, and other transmission media.

[0237] The processor 1200 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, while the memory 1220 can store the data used by the processor 1200 when performing operations.

[0238] The processor 1200 can be a CPU, ASIC, FPGA or CPLD, and the processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0239] The processor 1200 calls the computer program stored in the memory 1220 to execute any of the methods provided in the embodiments of this application according to the obtained executable instructions, such as: determining the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet; determining the corresponding data forwarding method according to the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs; the central PSA is a PSA in the target N19 tunnel network, and in the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs in the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0240] Optionally, the appropriate data forwarding method can be determined based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs, including:

[0241] If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, forward the data packet to the target PSA; or,

[0242] If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet will be forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

[0243] It should be noted that the session management functional entities, member PSAs, and central PSAs provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the above method embodiment and achieve the same technical effect. Therefore, the parts and beneficial effects that are the same as those in the method embodiment will not be described in detail here.

[0244] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the N19 tunnel establishment device provided in the embodiments of this application. This device can be applied to session management function entities, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the device includes:

[0245] The first determining unit 1300 is used to determine one or more anchor user plane functional entity PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and / or between PSA groups; the member PSAs in one or more PSA groups all belong to the same virtual network group;

[0246] The first sending unit 1310 is used to send an N4 session request message to the PSA in each PSA group. The N4 session request message is used to establish the target N19 tunnel network.

[0247] In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0248] Optionally, if there is only one PSA group, no N19 tunnels are established between member PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network.

[0249] Optionally, when there are multiple PSA groups, in the target N19 tunnel network, each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other.

[0250] Optionally, in the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

[0251] Optionally, an N4 session request message is sent to each PSA in the PSA group, including:

[0252] If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each central PSA. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

[0253] Optionally, one or more PSA groups are identified, including:

[0254] One or more PSA groups are determined based on any one or more of the PSA's geographic location information, local configuration information, and received policy information.

[0255] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0256] The tunnel update unit 1320 is used to perform N19 tunnel update on the central PSA of the target PSA group when the PSA in the target PSA group changes.

[0257] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0258] PSA selection unit 1330 is used to select the PSA corresponding to the terminal based on local configuration information and / or received policy indication.

[0259] Optionally, the central PSA includes user-face functional entities with non-PSA attributes and / or user-face functional entities with PSA attributes.

[0260] Optionally, the central PSA and member PSAs belong to the same virtual network group, or the central PSA and member PSAs belong to different virtual network groups.

[0261] Figure 14 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of a data transmission device provided in an embodiment of this application. This device can be applied to a member PSA, such as... Figure 14 As shown, the device includes:

[0262] Forwarding unit 1400 is used to forward data packets to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs when the destination PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined.

[0263] Both the central PSA and member PSAs are PSAs in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0264] Figure 15 This is a second schematic diagram of the data transmission device provided in the embodiments of this application. This device can be applied to a central PSA, such as... Figure 15 As shown, the device includes:

[0265] The second determining unit 1500 is used to determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet;

[0266] The second forwarding unit 1510 is used to determine the corresponding data forwarding method according to the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs;

[0267] The central PSA is the PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, all member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels with the central PSA.

[0268] Optionally, the appropriate data forwarding method can be determined based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs, including:

[0269] If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, forward the data packet to the target PSA; or,

[0270] If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet will be forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

[0271] It should be noted that the division of units in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used. 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 units described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional units.

[0272] 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 processor-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in 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, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0273] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the above method embodiment and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0274] On the other hand, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing a computer to perform the methods provided in the above embodiments.

[0275] It should be noted that the computer-readable storage medium provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the above method embodiment and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0276] The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium or data storage device that a computer can access, including but not limited to magnetic storage (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, magneto-optical disks (MOs), etc.), optical storage (e.g., CDs, DVDs, BDs, HVDs, etc.), and semiconductor storage (e.g., ROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, non-volatile memory (NAND flash), solid-state drives (SSDs)).

[0277] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to various systems, especially 5G systems. For example, applicable systems include Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD), Long Term Evolution Advanced (LTE-A), Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), and 5G New Radio (NR). All of these systems include terminal equipment and network equipment. The systems may also include a core network component, such as Evolved Packet System (EPS) and 5G system (5GS).

[0278] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage and optical storage) containing computer-usable program code.

[0279] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-executable instructions. These computer-executable instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0280] These processor-executable instructions may also be stored in a processor-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the processor-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0281] These processors can execute instructions that can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device, causing a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable device for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0282] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A method for establishing an N19 tunnel, characterized in that, Entities applied to session management functionality include: The anchor user plane functional entity (PSA) corresponding to each member terminal within the same virtual network group is divided into multiple PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. Send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group. The N4 session request message is used to establish the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other in pairs. Sending an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group includes: If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each of the central PSAs. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

2. The method for establishing the N19 tunnel according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

3. The method for establishing the N19 tunnel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The determination of multiple PSA groups includes: Multiple PSA groups are determined based on one or more of the PSA's geographic location information, local configuration information, and received policy information.

4. The method for establishing the N19 tunnel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the PSA in the target PSA group changes, perform an N19 tunnel update on the central PSA of the target PSA group.

5. The method for establishing the N19 tunnel according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on local configuration information and / or received policy instructions, select the PSA corresponding to the terminal.

6. The method for establishing the N19 tunnel according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The central PSA includes user plane function entities with non-PSA attributes and / or user plane function entities with PSA attributes.

7. The method for establishing the N19 tunnel according to claim 6, characterized in that, The central PSA and member PSAs belong to the same virtual network group, or the central PSA and member PSAs belong to different virtual network groups.

8. A data transmission method, characterized in that, The PSA, applied to the member anchor user face functional entity, includes: If the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs; Both the central PSA and the member PSAs are PSAs within the target N19 tunnel network. The target N19 tunnel network includes multiple PSA groups, which divide the PSAs corresponding to each member terminal within the same virtual network group into groups. Each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA within the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. The target N19 tunnel is established by the SMF sending a group-level N4 session modification request message to each of the central PSAs when it is determined that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each of the PSA groups. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message.

9. A data transmission method, characterized in that, The PSA, applied to the user face functional entity at the central anchor point, includes: Determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet; Determine the appropriate data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs; The central PSA is the PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. The target N19 tunnel network includes multiple PSA groups, which divide the PSAs corresponding to each member terminal in the same virtual network group into multiple PSA groups. Each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. The target N19 tunnel is established by the SMF sending a group-level N4 session modification request message to each of the central PSAs when it is determined that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each of the PSA groups. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message.

10. The data transmission method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The step of determining the corresponding data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs includes: If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the target PSA; or, If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

11. A session management function entity, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: The anchor user plane functional entity (PSA) corresponding to each member terminal within the same virtual network group is divided into multiple PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. Send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group. The N4 session request message is used to establish the target N19 tunnel network. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other in pairs. Sending an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group includes: If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each of the central PSAs. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

12. The session management function entity according to claim 11, characterized in that, In the target N19 tunnel network, member PSAs within the same PSA group establish N19 tunnels in pairs.

13. A member anchor point user plane functional entity PSA, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: If the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet cannot be determined, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs; Both the central PSA and the member PSAs are PSAs within the target N19 tunnel network. The target N19 tunnel network includes multiple PSA groups, which divide the PSAs corresponding to each member terminal within the same virtual network group into groups. Each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA within the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. The target N19 tunnel is established by the SMF sending a group-level N4 session modification request message to each of the central PSAs when it is determined that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each of the PSA groups. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message.

14. A user plane functional entity (PSA) with a central anchor point, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: Determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet; Determine the appropriate data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs; The central PSA is the PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. The target N19 tunnel network includes multiple PSA groups, which divide the PSAs corresponding to each member terminal in the same virtual network group into multiple PSA groups. Each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. The target N19 tunnel is established by the SMF sending a group-level N4 session modification request message to each of the central PSAs when it is determined that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each of the PSA groups. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message.

15. The central PSA according to claim 14, characterized in that, The step of determining the corresponding data forwarding method based on the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs includes: If the target PSA and the central PSA belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the target PSA; or, If the target PSA and the central PSA do not belong to the same PSA group, the data packet is forwarded to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs.

16. An N19 tunnel establishing device, characterized in that, Entities applied to session management functionality include: The first determining unit is used to divide the anchor user plane functional entity (PSA) corresponding to each member terminal in the same virtual network group into multiple PSA groups; each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups; The first sending unit is used to send an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group, the N4 session request message being used to establish a target N19 tunnel network; In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes an N19 tunnel with each other in pairs. Sending an N4 session request message to each PSA in the PSA group includes: If it is determined that each PSA group has established an intra-group N19 tunnel, a group-level N4 session modification request message is sent to each of the central PSAs. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that received the group-level N4 session modification request message.

17. A data transmission device, characterized in that, The PSA, applied to the member anchor user face functional entity, includes: The forwarding unit is used to forward the data packet to the central PSA in the PSA group to which the member PSA belongs when it is impossible to determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet. Both the central PSA and the member PSAs are PSAs within the target N19 tunnel network. The target N19 tunnel network includes multiple PSA groups, which divide the PSAs corresponding to each member terminal within the same virtual network group into groups. Each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA within the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. The target N19 tunnel is established by the SMF sending a group-level N4 session modification request message to each of the central PSAs when it is determined that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each of the PSA groups. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message.

18. A data transmission device, characterized in that, The PSA, applied to the user face functional entity at the central anchor point, includes: The second determining unit is used to determine the target PSA corresponding to the received data packet; The second forwarding unit is used to determine the corresponding data forwarding method according to the PSA group to which the target PSA belongs; The central PSA is the PSA in the target N19 tunnel network. The target N19 tunnel network includes multiple PSA groups, which divide the PSAs corresponding to each member terminal in the same virtual network group into multiple PSA groups. Each PSA group includes a central PSA, which is used to forward data transmitted between member PSAs within the group and between PSA groups. In the target N19 tunnel network, each member PSA in the same PSA group establishes an N19 tunnel with the central PSA, and each central PSA establishes N19 tunnels with each other in pairs. The target N19 tunnel is established by the SMF sending a group-level N4 session modification request message to each of the central PSAs when it is determined that an intra-group N19 tunnel has been established in each of the PSA groups. The group-level N4 session modification request message carries the N19 tunnel information of the target central PSA. The target central PSA includes other central PSAs besides the central PSA that receives the group-level N4 session modification request message.

19. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that causes a computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 7, or the method of claim 8, or the method of any one of claims 9 to 10.

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