Signal coverage information determination method and apparatus, communication device, and storage medium

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a signal coverage information determination method and apparatus, a communication device and a storage medium. A user equipment (UE) receives broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information transmitted by a non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network device; receives a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information transmitted by a core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to configuration update of the UE; and determines third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to, but is not limited to, the field of wireless communication technology, and particularly to methods, apparatus, communication devices, and storage media for determining signal coverage information. Background Technology

[0002] Enhanced features of the 5th Generation Core (5GC) / Evolved Packet Core (EPC) of the fifth-generation cellular mobile communication network enable satellite access with discontinuous satellite coverage. To support power saving based on signal coverage information perceived by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), the AMF can trigger the Access Network (AN) AN release process, causing the User Equipment (UE) to enter a Connection Management Idle (CM-IDLE) state and send power-saving parameters. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method, apparatus, communication device, and storage medium for determining signal coverage information.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a method for determining signal coverage information is provided, wherein the method is executed by a user equipment (UE), the method comprising:

[0005] Receive broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information sent by non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network equipment;

[0006] The UE receives a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information sent by a core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

[0007] Based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information, the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE is determined.

[0008] In one embodiment, receiving the NAS message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device includes:

[0009] Receive a UE configuration update message sent by the core network device, which carries the second signal coverage information.

[0010] In one embodiment, determining the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information includes one of the following:

[0011] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information, the first signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information;

[0012] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the second signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information.

[0013] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0014] Release the access network connection according to the access network connection release request sent by the NTN access network device.

[0015] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a method for determining signal coverage information is provided, wherein the method is executed by a core network device, the method comprising:

[0016] Obtain second signal coverage information;

[0017] Send a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to a User Equipment (UE), wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE, wherein the second signal coverage information is used for the UE to compare with a first signal coverage information determined by the UE from broadcast information, and based on the comparison result, determine the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE.

[0018] In one embodiment, sending a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE includes:

[0019] Send a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0020] In one embodiment, obtaining the second signal coverage information includes at least one of the following:

[0021] Receive the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network NTN access network device;

[0022] Obtain the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the operation and maintenance OAM network element.

[0023] In one embodiment, receiving the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network device includes:

[0024] Receive a context release request message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device.

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

[0026] Send an N2 UE context release command to the NTN access network device. The N2 UE context release command is used to trigger the access network device to send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0027] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a method for determining signal coverage information is provided, wherein the method is executed by a non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network device, the method comprising:

[0028] A broadcast message carrying fourth signal coverage information is sent to a user equipment (UE), wherein the signal coverage information sent to the UE is used to enable the UE to determine the first signal coverage information;

[0029] A fourth signal coverage information is sent to the core network device, wherein the fourth signal coverage information sent to the core network device is used to enable the core network device to determine a second signal coverage information, wherein the second signal coverage information is carried by the core network in a non-access stratum (NAS) message and sent to the UE, and the UE compares it with the first signal coverage information, and determines the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE based on the comparison result, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

[0030] In one embodiment, sending the fourth signal coverage information to the core network equipment includes:

[0031] Send a context release request message carrying the fourth signal coverage information to the core network device.

[0032] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0033] Receive the N2 UE context release command sent by the core network device;

[0034] According to the N2 UE context release command, an access network connection release request is sent to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0035] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a signal coverage information determining apparatus is provided, wherein the apparatus includes:

[0036] The first transceiver module is configured to receive broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information sent by non-terrestrial network NTN access network equipment;

[0037] The first transceiver module is further configured to receive a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the user equipment (UE).

[0038] The processing module is configured to determine the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information.

[0039] In one embodiment, the first transceiver module is specifically configured as follows:

[0040] Receive a UE configuration update message sent by the core network device, which carries the second signal coverage information.

[0041] In one embodiment, the processing module is specifically configured as one of the following:

[0042] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information, the first signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information;

[0043] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the second signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information.

[0044] In one embodiment, the processing module is further configured to:

[0045] Release the access network connection according to the access network connection release request sent by the NTN access network device.

[0046] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a signal coverage information determining apparatus is provided, wherein the apparatus includes:

[0047] The second transceiver module is configured to acquire second signal coverage information;

[0048] The second transceiver module is further configured to send a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to a user equipment (UE), wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE, and wherein the second signal coverage information is used for the UE to compare with the first signal coverage information determined by the UE from broadcast information, and based on the comparison result, to determine the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE.

[0049] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module is specifically configured as follows:

[0050] Send a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0051] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module is further configured to be at least one of the following:

[0052] Receive the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network NTN access network device;

[0053] Obtain the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the operation and maintenance OAM network element.

[0054] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module is specifically configured as follows:

[0055] Receive a context release request message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device.

[0056] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module is further configured to send an N2 UE context release command to the NTN access network device, wherein the N2 UE context release command is used to trigger the access network device to send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0057] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a signal coverage information determining apparatus is provided, wherein the apparatus includes:

[0058] The third transceiver module is configured to send broadcast information carrying fourth signal coverage information to the user equipment (UE), wherein the signal coverage information sent to the UE is used to enable the UE to determine the first signal coverage information;

[0059] The third transceiver module is further configured to send fourth signal coverage information to the core network device. The fourth signal coverage information sent to the core network device is used to enable the core network device to determine second signal coverage information. The second signal coverage information is carried by the core network device in a non-access stratum (NAS) message and sent to the UE. The UE compares the second signal coverage information with the first signal coverage information and determines the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the comparison result. The NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

[0060] In one embodiment, the third transceiver module is specifically configured as follows:

[0061] Send a context release request message carrying the fourth signal coverage information to the core network device.

[0062] In one embodiment, the third transceiver module is further configured to:

[0063] Receive the N2 UE context release command sent by the core network device;

[0064] According to the N2 UE context release command, an access network connection release request is sent to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0065] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device apparatus is provided, including a processor, a memory, and an executable program stored in the memory and executable by the processor, wherein when the processor executes the executable program, it performs the steps of the signal coverage information determination method as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0066] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores an executable program thereon, wherein the executable program, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the signal coverage information determination method as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0067] This disclosure provides a method, apparatus, communication device, and storage medium for determining signal coverage information. The UE receives broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information from an NTN access network device; it also receives a NAS message carrying second signal coverage information from a core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the UE's configuration update; based on the first and second signal coverage information, it determines the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE. Thus, by comparing the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information obtained through a secure transmission method, the correctness of the first signal coverage information is determined, and communication with the NTN access network device is then based on the determined true third signal coverage information of the satellite, improving communication security. This reduces the likelihood of the UE ceasing operation within the actual network coverage area due to incorrect signal coverage information, or of the UE continuing to send network access signals beyond the actual network coverage area, resulting in unnecessary power consumption.

[0068] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0069] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the invention.

[0070] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a wireless communication system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0071] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0072] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0073] Figure 4This is a flowchart illustrating yet another method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0074] Figure 5 This is an information interaction diagram illustrating another method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0075] Figure 6 This is an information interaction diagram illustrating another method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0076] Figure 7 This is an information interaction diagram illustrating another method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0077] Figure 8 This is an information interaction diagram illustrating another method for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0078] Figure 9 This is a block diagram illustrating a signal coverage information determination device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0079] Figure 10 This is a block diagram illustrating another signal coverage information determining device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0080] Figure 11 This is a block diagram illustrating yet another signal coverage information determining device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0081] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating an apparatus for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0082] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with those of the present invention. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0083] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the embodiments of this disclosure. The singular forms “a,” “the,” and “the” as used in this disclosure are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0084] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various information in embodiments of this disclosure, such information should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish information of the same type from one another. For example, first information may also be referred to as second information without departing from the scope of embodiments of this disclosure, and similarly, second information may also be referred to as first information. Depending on the context, the word "if" as used herein may be interpreted as "when," "when," or "in response to a determination."

[0085] Please refer to Figure 1 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the structure of a wireless communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 1 As shown, the wireless communication system is a communication system based on cellular mobile communication technology. The wireless communication system may include: a number of terminals 11 and a number of base stations 12.

[0086] Terminal 11 can be a device that provides voice and / or data connectivity to a user. Terminal 11 can communicate with one or more core networks via a Radio Access Network (RAN). Terminal 11 can be an Internet of Things (IoT) terminal, such as a sensor device, a mobile phone (or "cellular" phone), and a computer with an IoT terminal. For example, it can be a fixed, portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted device. Examples include a station (STA), subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, access point, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, user agent, user device, or user equipment (UE). Alternatively, terminal 11 can also be a device in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Alternatively, terminal 11 can also be a vehicle-mounted device, such as a vehicle computer with wireless communication capabilities, or a wireless communication device connected to an external vehicle computer. Alternatively, terminal 11 can also be a roadside device, such as a street light, traffic light, or other roadside device with wireless communication capabilities.

[0087] Base station 12 can be a network-side device in a wireless communication system. This wireless communication system can be a fourth-generation mobile communication (4G) system, also known as a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system; or it can be a 5G system, also known as a New Radio (NR) system or a 5G NR system. Alternatively, it can be a next-generation system after 5G. In this case, the access network in the 5G system can be called NG-RAN (New Generation-Radio Access Network). Alternatively, it can be an MTC system.

[0088] In this embodiment, base station 12 can be an evolved NB (eNB) used in a 4G system. Alternatively, base station 12 can also be a gNB (gNB) using a centralized-distributed architecture in a 5G system. When base station 12 adopts a centralized-distributed architecture, it typically includes a central unit (CU) and at least two distributed units (DU). The central unit is equipped with a protocol stack of Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP), Radio Link Control (RLC), and Media Access Control (MAC) layers; the distributed units are equipped with a physical (PHY) layer protocol stack. This disclosure does not limit the specific implementation of base station 12.

[0089] Base station 12 and terminal 11 can establish a wireless connection via a wireless air interface. In different implementations, the wireless air interface is a wireless air interface based on the fourth-generation mobile communication network technology (4G) standard; or, the wireless air interface is a wireless air interface based on the fifth-generation mobile communication network technology (5G) standard, such as a new air interface; or, the wireless air interface can also be a wireless air interface based on a next-generation mobile communication network technology standard based on 5G.

[0090] In some embodiments, terminals 11 can also establish E2E (End to End) connections. Examples include V2V (vehicle to vehicle), V2I (vehicle to Infrastructure), and V2P (vehicle to pedestrian) communication scenarios in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication.

[0091] In some embodiments, the wireless communication system described above may further include a network management device 13.

[0092] Several base stations 12 are connected to network management device 13. Network management device 13 can be a core network device in a wireless communication system, such as a Mobility Management Entity (MME) in an Evolved Packet Core (EPC). Alternatively, it can be other core network devices, such as a Serving Gateway (SGW), a Public Data Network Gateway (PGW), a Policy and Charging Rules Function (PCRF), or a Home Subscriber Server (HSS). The implementation of network management device 13 is not limited in this embodiment.

[0093] The AMF can detect when a UE leaves the current network coverage area based on signal coverage information. Signal coverage information can be sent to the AMF from the Non-Terrestrial Networks-Radio Access Network (NTN-RAN) or the Operation Administration and Maintenance (OAM) system.

[0094] Signal coverage information is also sent to the UE by the NTN-RAN via System Information Block (SIB) information. Since SIB information is unprotected broadcast information, the signal coverage information carried in the broadcast SIB information is easily tampered with by attackers. If the tampered signal coverage information distorts the actual network coverage range, the tampered network coverage range may mislead the UE into ceasing operation within the actual network coverage area, i.e., a Denial of Service (DoS) attack; or, the tampered network coverage range may mislead the UE into continuing to send network access signals even when it is outside the actual network coverage area, resulting in unnecessary power consumption.

[0095] Therefore, how to verify whether the signal coverage information received by the UE has been tampered with, and how to conduct communication based on the correct signal coverage information to improve communication security are urgent problems to be solved.

[0096] like Figure 2 As shown, this exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining signal coverage information, which can be executed by a UE of a cellular mobile communication system, including:

[0097] Step 201: Receive broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device;

[0098] Step 202: Receive a NAS message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE;

[0099] Step 203: Based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information, determine the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE.

[0100] This embodiment can be applied to, but is not limited to, scenarios with discontinuous satellite signal coverage. No limitations are imposed here.

[0101] NTN access network equipment can include satellites, base stations, etc. in NTN. In NTN, satellites can be used to provide relay of base station signals, that is, to provide signal coverage of cellular mobile communication networks to the ground. Alternatively, satellites can also be space-based base stations in NTN, which can also provide signal coverage of cellular mobile communication networks to the ground.

[0102] Signal coverage information, also known as satellite signal coverage information, can be used to determine the coverage area of ​​satellite signals at different times. Signal coverage information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: satellite ephemeris information, the location of the satellite signal coverage center, the satellite signal coverage radius, and the satellite signal coverage area.

[0103] The UE can determine its location within the satellite signal coverage area based on signal coverage information. For example, the UE can determine its current distance from the center point of the satellite signal coverage area, or its current distance from the edge of the coverage area, based on its geographical location, the satellite ephemeris, the satellite signal coverage center location, and the satellite signal coverage radius. Furthermore, the UE can determine whether to access the network, whether to conduct data communication, and / or whether to stop data communication.

[0104] The first signal coverage information can be the signal coverage information obtained by the UE from the broadcast information of the NTN access network device.

[0105] In one embodiment, the broadcast information may include, but is not limited to, system information broadcast by the NTN access network device. The system information includes, but is not limited to, SIBs. Here, signal coverage information may be configured on the NTN access network device by the OAM (Operational Access Management) system.

[0106] NTN access network equipment can carry the actual satellite signal coverage information, i.e., the fourth signal coverage information, in the broadcast information. Due to potential errors in transmission and / or tampering during the broadcast process, the fourth signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network equipment may differ from the first signal coverage information obtained by the UE from the broadcast information. That is, the first signal coverage information may be the same as the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network equipment in the broadcast information, or the first signal coverage information may be different from the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network equipment in the broadcast information.

[0107] For example, since the broadcast system information is not protected against tampering, the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network device in the broadcast information may be tampered with, so that the first signal coverage information received by the UE is different from the fourth signal coverage information.

[0108] Here, core network equipment may include AMF (Advanced Feature Controller), etc. Core network equipment can acquire second signal coverage information. Core network equipment can be configured to acquire second signal coverage information through a protected pathway to improve the reliability of the second signal coverage information.

[0109] In one embodiment, the core network device acquires second signal coverage information, including at least one of the following:

[0110] The core network equipment receives the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network equipment;

[0111] The core network equipment obtains the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the Operation, Maintenance and Management (OAM) network element.

[0112] NTN access network devices can carry fourth signal coverage information through N2 messages, and core network devices can obtain the second signal coverage information carried in the N2 messages. Since the N2 messages are protected, there is a high probability that the fourth signal coverage information will match the second signal coverage information received by the core network devices. It is generally assumed that the fourth signal coverage information is protected by security measures during transmission, such as encryption and / or integrity protection; therefore, the second signal coverage information received by the core network devices will match the fourth signal coverage information.

[0113] The second signal coverage information can also be pre-stored in the OAM network element. Core network equipment can directly obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM. The second signal coverage information can also be pre-stored in the OAM network element by NTN access network equipment, etc.

[0114] Here, the UE Configuration Update (UCU) event can trigger the core network equipment to send a message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0115] When a UE leaves its current signal coverage area, the core network can update the UE configuration based on the interval between the UE's re-entry into the coverage area. For example, this update might include power-saving parameters. Power-saving parameters can include: the start time of the UE entering power-saving mode, the start time of the UE returning to normal operation mode from power-saving mode, and / or the duration the UE maintains power-saving mode. Power-saving mode can include the UE's CM-IDLE state. In power-saving mode, the UE does not send any uplink signaling requests to conserve power.

[0116] Core network equipment can transmit messages carrying second signal coverage information using secure transmission methods. Here, secure transmission methods may include messages transmitted using encryption and / or integrity protection. Since the message carrying the second signal coverage information is a protected message, it can be assumed that the second signal coverage information has not been tampered with during transmission. The second signal coverage information can be considered genuine signal coverage information.

[0117] For example, during a UE configuration update, the core network device can carry second signal coverage information in a NAS message sent to the UE. The NAS message is encrypted and / or integrity protected, thus reducing errors that may occur during the transmission of the second signal coverage information.

[0118] The UE can compare the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information to determine whether the received first signal coverage information is the actual signal coverage information of the satellite.

[0119] The third signal coverage information can be determined based on whether the first signal coverage information is genuine. For example, if the first signal coverage information is genuine, the third signal coverage information can be determined from the first signal coverage information. If the first signal coverage information is not genuine, the third signal coverage information can be determined from the second signal coverage information.

[0120] The UE can determine its location within the satellite signal coverage area based on third-party signal coverage information, and then determine whether to conduct data communication and / or stop data communication.

[0121] In this way, by comparing the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information obtained through secure transmission, the correctness of the first signal coverage information is determined. Then, communication with the NTN access network equipment is based on the determined true third signal coverage information of the satellite, improving communication security. This reduces the likelihood of the UE ceasing operation within the actual network coverage area due to incorrect signal coverage information, or the UE continuing to send network access signals outside the actual network coverage area, thus reducing unnecessary power consumption.

[0122] In one embodiment, receiving the NAS message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device includes:

[0123] Receive a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the core network device.

[0124] For example, if the NTN access network device detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on signal coverage information, the NTN access network device can trigger the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state before the UE leaves the current network coverage. The NTN access network device sends a context release request message (N2 UEContext Release Request message) to the AMF. In the N2 UEContext Release Request message, the NTN-RAN can send fourth signal coverage information to the AMF. Since the N2 message is a protected message, it can be assumed that the second signal coverage information obtained by the AMF from the registration request message is consistent with the fourth signal coverage information. The AMF can also obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM. The AMF can store the obtained second signal coverage information.

[0125] If the NTN-RAN does not send signal coverage information to the AMF, the AMF can obtain secondary signal coverage information from the OAM webpage. If the AMF detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on the secondary signal coverage information, the AM triggers the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state while the UE is still within network coverage. The AMF can determine the UE's power-saving parameters based on the signal coverage information. The power-saving parameters can instruct the UE to remain in power-saving mode without waking up or sending any uplink signaling requests when there is no network coverage.

[0126] The AMF triggers the UE configuration update process to update power-saving parameters. Specifically, the AMF sends a UE configuration update message to the UE. This message carries secondary signal coverage information. Since UE configuration update messages are NAS messages and are protected by security protocols, the UE can correctly receive the secondary signal coverage information.

[0127] By carrying the second signal coverage information in the UE configuration update message, the accuracy of the UE receiving the second signal coverage information can be improved, and the verification of the first signal coverage information can be achieved.

[0128] In one embodiment, determining the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information includes one of the following:

[0129] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information, the first signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information;

[0130] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the second signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information.

[0131] For example, the UE compares the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information. If the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information are inconsistent, the UE can use the second signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information. For example, the second signal coverage information can be used to overwrite the first signal coverage information stored by the UE. If the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information are not consistent, the UE can use the first signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information. For example, the first signal coverage information can be retained.

[0132] like Figure 3 As shown, this exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining signal coverage information, which can be executed by a UE of a cellular mobile communication system, including:

[0133] Step 301: Release the access network connection according to the access network connection release request sent by the NTN access network device.

[0134] Step 301 can be performed alone or in combination with steps 201 to 203.

[0135] After the AMF sends a UE configuration update message to the UE, it can send an N2 UE Context Release Command to the NTN-RAN. Upon receiving the N2 UE Context Release Command, the NTN-RAN can request the UE to release its access network N connection via an access network connection release request. After receiving confirmation of the RAN connection release from the UE, the NTN-RAN deletes the UE's context. The NTN-RAN confirms the N2 release by returning an N2 UE Context ReleaseComplete message to the AMF.

[0136] like Figure 4 As shown, this exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining signal coverage information, which can be executed by the core network equipment of a cellular mobile communication system, including:

[0137] Step 401: Obtain the second signal coverage information;

[0138] Step 402: Send a NAS message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE, wherein the second signal coverage information is used for the UE to compare with the first signal coverage information determined by the UE from the broadcast information, and based on the comparison result, determine the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE.

[0139] This embodiment can be applied to, but is not limited to, scenarios with discontinuous satellite signal coverage. No limitations are imposed here.

[0140] Core network equipment includes, but is not limited to, AMF.

[0141] NTN access network equipment can include satellites, base stations, etc. in NTN. In NTN, satellites can be used to provide relay of base station signals, that is, to provide signal coverage of cellular mobile communication networks to the ground. Alternatively, satellites can also be space-based base stations in NTN, which can also provide signal coverage of cellular mobile communication networks to the ground.

[0142] Signal coverage information, also known as satellite signal coverage information, can be used to determine the coverage area of ​​satellite signals at different times. Signal coverage information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: satellite ephemeris information, the location of the satellite signal coverage center, the satellite signal coverage radius, and the satellite signal coverage area.

[0143] The UE can determine its location within the satellite signal coverage area based on signal coverage information. For example, the UE can determine its current distance from the center point of the satellite signal coverage area, or its current distance from the edge of the coverage area, based on its geographical location, the satellite ephemeris, the satellite signal coverage center location, and the satellite signal coverage radius. Furthermore, the UE can determine whether to access the network, whether to conduct data communication, and / or whether to stop data communication.

[0144] The first signal coverage information can be the signal coverage information obtained by the UE from the broadcast information of the NTN access network device.

[0145] In one embodiment, the broadcast information may include, but is not limited to, system information broadcast by the NTN access network device. The system information includes, but is not limited to, SIBs. Here, signal coverage information may be configured on the NTN access network device by the OAM (Operational Access Management) system.

[0146] NTN access network equipment can carry the actual satellite signal coverage information, i.e., the fourth signal coverage information, in the broadcast information. Due to potential errors in transmission and / or tampering during the broadcast process, the fourth signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network equipment may differ from the first signal coverage information obtained by the UE from the broadcast information. That is, the first signal coverage information may be the same as the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network equipment in the broadcast information, or the first signal coverage information may be different from the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network equipment in the broadcast information.

[0147] For example, since the broadcast system information is not protected against tampering, the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network device in the broadcast information may be tampered with, so that the first signal coverage information received by the UE is different from the fourth signal coverage information.

[0148] Here, core network equipment may include AMF (Advanced Feature Controller), etc. Core network equipment can acquire second signal coverage information. Core network equipment can be configured to acquire second signal coverage information through a protected pathway to improve the reliability of the second signal coverage information.

[0149] In one embodiment, obtaining the second signal coverage information includes at least one of the following:

[0150] Receive the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network NTN access network device;

[0151] Obtain the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the operation and maintenance OAM network element.

[0152] NTN access network devices can carry fourth signal coverage information through N2 messages, and core network devices can obtain the second signal coverage information carried in the N2 messages. Since the N2 messages are protected, there is a high probability that the fourth signal coverage information will match the second signal coverage information received by the core network devices. It is generally assumed that the fourth signal coverage information is protected by security measures during transmission, such as encryption and / or integrity protection; therefore, the second signal coverage information received by the core network devices will match the fourth signal coverage information.

[0153] The second signal coverage information can also be pre-stored in the OAM network element. Core network equipment can directly obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM. The second signal coverage information can also be pre-stored in the OAM network element by NTN access network equipment, etc.

[0154] Here, the UE Configuration Update (UCU) event can trigger the core network equipment to send a message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0155] When a UE leaves its current signal coverage area, the core network can update the UE configuration based on the interval between the UE's re-entry into the coverage area. For example, this update might include power-saving parameters. Power-saving parameters can include: the start time of the UE entering power-saving mode, the start time of the UE returning to normal operation mode from power-saving mode, and / or the duration the UE maintains power-saving mode. Power-saving mode can include the UE's CM-IDLE state. In power-saving mode, the UE does not send any uplink signaling requests to conserve power.

[0156] Core network equipment can transmit messages carrying second signal coverage information using secure transmission methods. Here, secure transmission methods may include messages transmitted using encryption and / or integrity protection. Since the message carrying the second signal coverage information is a protected message, it can be assumed that the second signal coverage information has not been tampered with during transmission. The second signal coverage information can be considered genuine signal coverage information.

[0157] For example, during a UE configuration update, the core network device can carry second signal coverage information in a NAS message sent to the UE. The NAS message is encrypted and / or integrity protected, thus reducing errors that may occur during the transmission of the second signal coverage information.

[0158] The UE can compare the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information to determine whether the received first signal coverage information is the actual signal coverage information of the satellite.

[0159] The third signal coverage information can be determined based on whether the first signal coverage information is genuine. For example, if the first signal coverage information is genuine, the third signal coverage information can be determined from the first signal coverage information. If the first signal coverage information is not genuine, the third signal coverage information can be determined from the second signal coverage information.

[0160] The UE can determine its location within the satellite signal coverage area based on third-party signal coverage information, and then determine whether to conduct data communication and / or stop data communication.

[0161] In this way, by comparing the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information obtained through secure transmission, the correctness of the first signal coverage information is determined. Then, communication with the NTN access network equipment is based on the determined true third signal coverage information of the satellite, improving communication security. This reduces the likelihood of the UE ceasing operation within the actual network coverage area due to incorrect signal coverage information, or the UE continuing to send network access signals outside the actual network coverage area, thus reducing unnecessary power consumption.

[0162] In one embodiment, sending a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE includes:

[0163] Send a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0164] In one embodiment, receiving the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network device includes:

[0165] Receive a context release request message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device.

[0166] For example, if the NTN access network device detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on signal coverage information, the NTN access network device can trigger the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state before the UE leaves the current network coverage. The NTN access network device sends a context release request message (N2 UEContext Release Request message) to the AMF. In the N2 UEContext Release Request message, the NTN-RAN can send fourth signal coverage information to the AMF. Since the N2 message is a protected message, it can be assumed that the second signal coverage information obtained by the AMF from the registration request message is consistent with the fourth signal coverage information. The AMF can also obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM. The AMF can store the obtained second signal coverage information.

[0167] If the NTN-RAN does not send signal coverage information to the AMF, the AMF can obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM webpage. If the AMF detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on the second signal coverage information, the AM triggers the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state while the UE is still within network coverage. The AMF can determine the UE's power-saving parameters based on the second signal coverage information. The power-saving parameters can instruct the UE to remain in power-saving mode without waking up or sending any uplink signaling requests when there is no network coverage.

[0168] The AMF triggers the UE configuration update process to update power-saving parameters. Specifically, the AMF sends a UE configuration update message to the UE. This message carries secondary signal coverage information. Since UE configuration update messages are NAS messages and are protected by security protocols, the UE can correctly receive the secondary signal coverage information.

[0169] By carrying the second signal coverage information in the UE configuration update message, the accuracy of the UE receiving the second signal coverage information can be improved, and the verification of the first signal coverage information can be achieved.

[0170] In one embodiment, the UE determines the third signal coverage information to be used based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information, including one of the following:

[0171] The UE determines the first signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information in response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information.

[0172] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the UE determines the second signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information.

[0173] For example, the UE compares the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information. If the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information are inconsistent, the UE can use the second signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information. For example, the second signal coverage information can be used to overwrite the first signal coverage information stored by the UE. If the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information are not consistent, the UE can use the first signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information. For example, the first signal coverage information can be retained.

[0174] like Figure 5 As shown, this exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining signal coverage information, which can be executed by the core network equipment of a cellular mobile communication system, including:

[0175] Step 501: Send an N2 UE context release command to the NTN access network device. The N2 UE context release command is used to trigger the access network device to send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0176] Step 501 can be performed alone or in combination with steps 401 to 402.

[0177] After the core network equipment (such as the AMF) sends a UE configuration update message to the UE, it can send an N2 UE Context Release Command to the NTN-RAN. Upon receiving the N2 UE Context Release Command, the NTN-RAN can request the UE to release its access network N connection via an access network connection release request. After receiving confirmation of the RAN connection release from the UE, the NTN-RAN deletes the UE's context. The NTN-RAN confirms the N2 release by returning an N2 UE ContextRelease Complete message to the AMF.

[0178] like Figure 6 As shown, this exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining signal coverage information, which can be executed by an NTN access network device of a cellular mobile communication system, including:

[0179] Step 601: Send broadcast information carrying fourth signal coverage information to the UE, wherein the signal coverage information sent to the UE is used for the UE to determine the first signal coverage information;

[0180] Step 602: Send fourth signal coverage information to the core network device, wherein the fourth signal coverage information sent to the core network device is used for the core network device to determine second signal coverage information, wherein the second signal coverage information is used by the core network device to send to the UE in a NAS message, and the UE compares it with the first signal coverage information, and determines the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE based on the comparison result, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

[0181] This embodiment can be applied to, but is not limited to, scenarios with discontinuous satellite signal coverage. No limitations are imposed here.

[0182] NTN access network equipment can include satellites, base stations, etc. in NTN. In NTN, satellites can be used to provide relay of base station signals, that is, to provide signal coverage of cellular mobile communication networks to the ground. Alternatively, satellites can also be space-based base stations in NTN, which can also provide signal coverage of cellular mobile communication networks to the ground.

[0183] Signal coverage information, also known as satellite signal coverage information, can be used to determine the coverage area of ​​satellite signals at different times. Signal coverage information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: satellite ephemeris information, the location of the satellite signal coverage center, the satellite signal coverage radius, and the satellite signal coverage area.

[0184] The UE can determine its location within the satellite signal coverage area based on signal coverage information. For example, the UE can determine its current distance from the center point of the satellite signal coverage area, or its current distance from the edge of the coverage area, based on its geographical location, the satellite ephemeris, the satellite signal coverage center location, and the satellite signal coverage radius. Furthermore, the UE can determine whether to access the network, whether to conduct data communication, and / or whether to stop data communication.

[0185] The first signal coverage information can be the signal coverage information obtained by the UE from the broadcast information of the NTN access network device.

[0186] In one embodiment, the broadcast information may include, but is not limited to, system information broadcast by the NTN access network device. The system information includes, but is not limited to, SIBs. Here, signal coverage information may be configured on the NTN access network device by the OAM (Operational Access Management) system.

[0187] NTN access network equipment can carry the actual satellite signal coverage information, i.e., the fourth signal coverage information, in the broadcast information. Due to potential errors in transmission and / or tampering during the broadcast process, the fourth signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network equipment may differ from the first signal coverage information obtained by the UE from the broadcast information. That is, the first signal coverage information may be the same as the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network equipment in the broadcast information, or the first signal coverage information may be different from the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network equipment in the broadcast information.

[0188] For example, since the broadcast system information is not protected against tampering, the fourth signal coverage information carried by the NTN access network device in the broadcast information may be tampered with, so that the first signal coverage information received by the UE is different from the fourth signal coverage information.

[0189] Here, core network equipment may include AMF (Advanced Feature Controller), etc. Core network equipment can acquire second signal coverage information. Core network equipment can be configured to acquire second signal coverage information through a protected pathway to improve the reliability of the second signal coverage information.

[0190] In one embodiment, the core network device acquires second signal coverage information, including at least one of the following:

[0191] The core network equipment receives the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network equipment;

[0192] The core network equipment obtains the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the Operation, Maintenance and Management (OAM) network element.

[0193] NTN access network devices can carry fourth signal coverage information through N2 messages, and core network devices can obtain the second signal coverage information carried in the N2 messages. Since the N2 messages are protected, there is a high probability that the fourth signal coverage information will match the second signal coverage information received by the core network devices. It is generally assumed that the fourth signal coverage information is protected by security measures during transmission, such as encryption and / or integrity protection; therefore, the second signal coverage information received by the core network devices will match the fourth signal coverage information.

[0194] The second signal coverage information can also be pre-stored in the OAM network element. Core network equipment can directly obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM. The second signal coverage information can also be pre-stored in the OAM network element by NTN access network equipment, etc.

[0195] Here, the UE Configuration Update (UCU) event can trigger the core network equipment to send a message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0196] When a UE leaves its current signal coverage area, the core network can update the UE configuration based on the interval between the UE's re-entry into the coverage area. For example, this update might include power-saving parameters. Power-saving parameters can include: the start time of the UE entering power-saving mode, the start time of the UE returning to normal operation mode from power-saving mode, and / or the duration the UE maintains power-saving mode. Power-saving mode can include the UE's CM-IDLE state. In power-saving mode, the UE does not send any uplink signaling requests to conserve power.

[0197] Core network equipment can transmit messages carrying second signal coverage information using secure transmission methods. Here, secure transmission methods may include messages transmitted using encryption and / or integrity protection. Since the message carrying the second signal coverage information is a protected message, it can be assumed that the second signal coverage information has not been tampered with during transmission. The second signal coverage information can be considered genuine signal coverage information.

[0198] For example, during a UE configuration update, the core network device can carry second signal coverage information in a NAS message sent to the UE. The NAS message is encrypted and / or integrity protected, thus reducing errors that may occur during the transmission of the second signal coverage information.

[0199] The UE can compare the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information to determine whether the received first signal coverage information is the actual signal coverage information of the satellite.

[0200] The third signal coverage information can be determined based on whether the first signal coverage information is genuine. For example, if the first signal coverage information is genuine, the third signal coverage information can be determined from the first signal coverage information. If the first signal coverage information is not genuine, the third signal coverage information can be determined from the second signal coverage information.

[0201] The UE can determine its location within the satellite signal coverage area based on third-party signal coverage information, and then determine whether to conduct data communication and / or stop data communication.

[0202] In this way, by comparing the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information obtained through secure transmission, the correctness of the first signal coverage information is determined. Then, communication with the NTN access network equipment is based on the determined true third signal coverage information of the satellite, improving communication security. This reduces the likelihood of the UE ceasing operation within the actual network coverage area due to incorrect signal coverage information, or the UE continuing to send network access signals outside the actual network coverage area, thus reducing unnecessary power consumption.

[0203] In one embodiment, sending the fourth signal coverage information to the core network equipment includes:

[0204] Send a context release request message carrying the fourth signal coverage information to the core network device.

[0205] For example, if the NTN access network device detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on signal coverage information, the NTN access network device can trigger the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state before the UE leaves the current network coverage. The NTN access network device sends a context release request message (N2 UEContext Release Request message) to the AMF. In the N2 UEContext Release Request message, the NTN-RAN can send fourth signal coverage information to the AMF. Since the N2 message is a protected message, it can be assumed that the second signal coverage information obtained by the AMF from the registration request message is consistent with the fourth signal coverage information. The AMF can also obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM. The AMF can store the obtained second signal coverage information.

[0206] If the NTN-RAN does not send signal coverage information to the AMF, the AMF can obtain the second signal coverage information from the OAM webpage. If the AMF detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on the second signal coverage information, the AM triggers the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state while the UE is still within the network coverage area.

[0207] In one embodiment, the UE receives a NAS message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device, including:

[0208] The UE receives a UE configuration update message sent by the core network device, which carries the second signal coverage information.

[0209] AMF can determine the UE's power-saving parameters based on the second signal coverage information. The power-saving parameters can instruct the UE to remain in power-saving mode without waking up or sending any uplink signaling requests when there is no network coverage.

[0210] The AMF triggers the UE configuration update process to update power-saving parameters. Specifically, the AMF sends a UE configuration update message to the UE. This message carries secondary signal coverage information. Since UE configuration update messages are NAS messages and are protected by security protocols, the UE can correctly receive the secondary signal coverage information.

[0211] By carrying the second signal coverage information in the UE configuration update message, the accuracy of the UE receiving the second signal coverage information can be improved, and the verification of the first signal coverage information can be achieved.

[0212] In one embodiment, the UE determines the third signal coverage information to be used based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information, including one of the following:

[0213] The UE determines the first signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information in response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information.

[0214] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the UE determines the second signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information.

[0215] For example, the UE compares the first signal coverage information with the second signal coverage information. If the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information are inconsistent, the UE can use the second signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information. For example, the second signal coverage information can be used to overwrite the first signal coverage information stored by the UE. If the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information are not consistent, the UE can use the first signal coverage information as the third signal coverage information. For example, the first signal coverage information can be retained.

[0216] like Figure 7 As shown, this exemplary embodiment provides a method for determining signal coverage information, which can be executed by an NTN access network device of a cellular mobile communication system, including:

[0217] Step 701: Receive the N2 UE context release command sent by the core network device;

[0218] Step 702: Based on the N2 UE context release command, send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0219] Steps 701 and 702 can be performed individually or in combination with steps 601 to 602.

[0220] After the core network equipment (such as the AMF) sends a UE configuration update message to the UE, it can send an N2 UE Context Release Command to the NTN-RAN. Upon receiving the N2 UE Context Release Command, the NTN-RAN can request the UE to release its access network N connection via an access network connection release request. After receiving confirmation of the RAN connection release from the UE, the NTN-RAN deletes the UE's context. The NTN-RAN confirms the N2 release by returning an N2 UE ContextRelease Complete message to the AMF.

[0221] The following provides a specific example in conjunction with any of the above embodiments:

[0222] like Figure 8As shown, the specific steps for the UE to verify the signal coverage information (first signal coverage information) obtained from the broadcast information using the signal coverage information (second signal coverage information) provided by the AMF include:

[0223] Step 801: When broadcasting SIB information, the NTN-RAN (NTN access network equipment) sends signal coverage information (fourth signal coverage information) to the UE. The signal coverage information (fourth signal coverage information) in the SIB information is unprotected. Here, the signal coverage information (fourth signal coverage information) can be configured on the NTN-RAN through the OAM system.

[0224] Step 802: The UE stores the received signal coverage information (first signal coverage information).

[0225] Step 803: If NTN-RAN detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on the signal coverage information (fourth signal coverage information), NTN-RAN can trigger the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state before the UE leaves the current network coverage.

[0226] Step 804: NTN-RAN sends an N2 UE Context Release Request message to AMF. In the N2 UE Context Release Request message, NTN-RAN may send signal coverage information (fourth signal coverage information) to AMF. AMF receives the signal coverage information (second signal coverage information, which is generally considered to be the same as the fourth signal coverage information) from the N2 UE Context Release Request message.

[0227] Step 805: If the NTN-RAN does not send signal coverage information (fourth signal coverage information) to the AMF, the AMF can obtain signal coverage information (second signal coverage information) from the OAM webpage. If the AMF detects that the UE is about to leave the current network coverage based on the signal coverage information (second signal coverage information), the AMF triggers the AN release procedure to move the UE to the CM-IDLE state while the UE is still within the network coverage area.

[0228] Step 806: The AMF determines the UE's power-saving parameters based on signal coverage information. This is to ensure that the UE remains in power-saving mode without waking up or sending any uplink signaling requests in the absence of network coverage.

[0229] Step 807: The AMF triggers a UE Configuration Update (UCU) process to update power-saving parameters. Simultaneously, the AMF also sends signal coverage information (second signal coverage information) to the UE during the UCU process, which is protected by NAS security.

[0230] Step 808: The UE compares the signal coverage information (second signal coverage information) received in step 807 with the signal coverage information (first signal coverage information) received in step 801. If they do not match, the UE replaces the signal coverage information (first signal coverage information) (unprotected) received in step 801 with the newly received signal coverage information (second signal coverage information) in step 807.

[0231] Step 809: The AMF sends the N2 UE Context Release Command to the NTN-RAN.

[0232] Step 810: NTN-RAN requests UE to release RAN connection. After receiving the UE's RAN connection release confirmation, NTN-RAN deletes the UE's context.

[0233] Step 811: NTN-RAN confirms N2 release by returning an N2 UE Context ReleaseComplete message to AMF.

[0234] Step 812: The AMF calls the Nsmf_PDUSession_UpdateSMContext request to the SMF to release the N3 resources of each PDU session in the N2 UE context release completion message.

[0235] This invention also provides a signal coverage information determination device, such as... Figure 9 As shown, in a UE used in cellular mobile wireless communication, the device 100 includes:

[0236] The first transceiver module 110 is configured to receive broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information sent by a non-terrestrial network NTN access network device;

[0237] The first transceiver module 110 is further configured to receive a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the user equipment (UE).

[0238] The processing module 120 is configured to determine the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information.

[0239] In one embodiment, the first transceiver module 110 is specifically configured as follows:

[0240] Receive a UE configuration update message sent by the core network device, which carries the second signal coverage information.

[0241] In one embodiment, the processing module 120 is specifically configured as one of the following:

[0242] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information, the first signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information;

[0243] In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the second signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information.

[0244] In one embodiment, the processing module 120 is further configured to:

[0245] Release the access network connection according to the access network connection release request sent by the NTN access network device.

[0246] This invention also provides a signal coverage information determination device, such as... Figure 10 As shown, in a core network device for cellular mobile wireless communication, the device 200 includes:

[0247] The second transceiver module 210 is configured to acquire second signal coverage information;

[0248] The second transceiver module 210 is further configured to send a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to a user equipment (UE), wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE, and wherein the second signal coverage information is used for the UE to compare with the first signal coverage information determined by the UE from broadcast information, and to determine the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE based on the comparison result.

[0249] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module 210 is specifically configured as follows:

[0250] Send a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information to the UE.

[0251] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module 210 is further configured to be at least one of the following:

[0252] Receive the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network NTN access network device;

[0253] Obtain the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the operation and maintenance OAM network element.

[0254] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module 210 is specifically configured as follows:

[0255] Receive a context release request message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device.

[0256] In one embodiment, the second transceiver module 210 is further configured to send an N2 UE context release command to the NTN access network device. The N2 UE context release command is used to trigger the access network device to send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0257] This invention also provides a signal coverage information determination device, such as... Figure 11 As shown, in an NTN access network device applied to cellular mobile wireless communication, the device 300 includes:

[0258] The third transceiver module 310 is configured to send broadcast information carrying fourth signal coverage information to the user equipment (UE), wherein the signal coverage information sent to the UE is used for the UE to determine the first signal coverage information;

[0259] The third transceiver module 310 is further configured to send fourth signal coverage information to the core network device. The fourth signal coverage information sent to the core network device is used to enable the core network device to determine second signal coverage information. The second signal coverage information is carried by the core network device in a non-access stratum (NAS) message and sent to the UE. The UE compares the second signal coverage information with the first signal coverage information and determines the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the comparison result. The NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

[0260] In one embodiment, the third transceiver module 310 is specifically configured as follows:

[0261] Send a context release request message carrying the fourth signal coverage information to the core network device.

[0262] In one embodiment, the third transceiver module 310 is further configured to:

[0263] Receive the N2 UE context release command sent by the core network device;

[0264] According to the N2 UE context release command, an access network connection release request is sent to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

[0265] In an exemplary embodiment, the first transceiver module 110, the first processing module 120, the second transceiver module 210, and the third transceiver module 310 may be implemented by one or more central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), baseband processors (BPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), DSPs, programmable logic devices (PLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), general-purpose processors, controllers, microcontrollers (MCUs), microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the aforementioned method.

[0266] Figure 12 This is a block diagram illustrating an apparatus 3000 for determining signal coverage information according to an exemplary embodiment. For example, apparatus 3000 may be a mobile phone, computer, digital broadcasting terminal, messaging device, game console, tablet device, medical device, fitness equipment, personal digital assistant, etc.

[0267] Reference Figure 12 The device 3000 may include one or more of the following components: processing component 3002, memory 3004, power supply component 3006, multimedia component 3008, audio component 3010, input / output (I / O) interface 3012, sensor component 3014, and communication component 3016.

[0268] Processing component 3002 typically controls the overall operation of device 3000, such as operations associated with display, telephone calls, data communication, camera operation, and recording. Processing component 3002 may include one or more processors 3020 to execute instructions to complete all or part of the steps of the methods described above. Furthermore, processing component 3002 may include one or more modules to facilitate interaction between processing component 3002 and other components. For example, processing component 3002 may include a multimedia module to facilitate interaction between multimedia component 3008 and processing component 3002.

[0269] Memory 3004 is configured to store various types of data to support the operation of device 3000. Examples of this data include instructions for any application or method operating on device 3000, contact data, phonebook data, messages, pictures, videos, etc. Memory 3004 can be implemented by any type of volatile or non-volatile storage device or a combination thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0270] Power supply component 3006 provides power to various components of device 3000. Power supply component 3006 may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to device 3000.

[0271] Multimedia component 3008 includes a screen that provides an output interface between device 3000 and the user. In some embodiments, the screen may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen may be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors may sense not only the boundaries of touch or swipe actions but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation. In some embodiments, multimedia component 3008 includes a front-facing camera and / or a rear-facing camera. When device 3000 is in an operating mode, such as a shooting mode or a video mode, the front-facing camera and / or rear-facing camera may receive external multimedia data. Each front-facing camera and rear-facing camera may be a fixed optical lens system or have focal length and optical zoom capabilities.

[0272] Audio component 3010 is configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, audio component 3010 includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when device 3000 is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, and voice recognition mode. The received audio signals may be further stored in memory 3004 or transmitted via communication component 3016. In some embodiments, audio component 3010 also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.

[0273] I / O interface 3012 provides an interface between processing component 3002 and peripheral interface modules, such as keyboards, click wheels, buttons, etc. These buttons may include, but are not limited to, home buttons, volume buttons, start buttons, and lock buttons.

[0274] Sensor assembly 3014 includes one or more sensors for providing state assessments of various aspects of device 3000. For example, sensor assembly 3014 may detect the on / off state of device 3000, determine relative signal coverage information of components such as the display and keypad of device 3000, and may also detect changes in the position of device 3000 or a component of device 3000, the presence or absence of user contact with device 3000, the orientation or acceleration / deceleration of device 3000, and temperature changes of device 3000. Sensor assembly 3014 may include a proximity sensor configured to detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact. Sensor assembly 3014 may also include an optical sensor, such as a CMOS or CCD image sensor, for use in imaging applications. In some embodiments, sensor assembly 3014 may also include an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer, pressure sensor, or temperature sensor.

[0275] Communication component 3016 is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between device 3000 and other devices. Device 3000 can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as Wi-Fi, 2G, or 3G, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 3016 receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, communication component 3016 also includes a near-field communication (NFC) module to facilitate short-range communication. For example, the NFC module may be implemented based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, and other technologies.

[0276] In an exemplary embodiment, the apparatus 3000 may be implemented by one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, or other electronic components to perform the methods described above.

[0277] In an exemplary embodiment, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium including instructions is also provided, such as a memory 3004 including instructions, which can be executed by a processor 3020 of the device 3000 to perform the above-described method. For example, the non-transitory computer-readable storage medium may be a ROM, random access memory (RAM), CD-ROM, magnetic tape, floppy disk, and optical data storage device, etc.

[0278] Other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the embodiments of the invention that follow the general principles of the embodiments of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed in this disclosure. The specification and embodiments are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the embodiments of the invention are indicated by the following claims.

[0279] It should be understood that the embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from their scope. The scope of the embodiments of the present invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for determining signal coverage information, wherein, The method, executed by the user equipment (UE), includes: Receive broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information sent by non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network equipment; The UE receives a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information sent by a core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE. Based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information, the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE is determined.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The NAS message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device includes: Receive a UE configuration update message sent by the core network device, which carries the second signal coverage information.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The determination of the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information includes one of the following: In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information, the first signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information; In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the second signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The method further includes: Release the access network connection according to the access network connection release request sent by the NTN access network device.

5. A method for determining signal coverage information, wherein, The method, executed by the core network equipment, includes: Obtain second signal coverage information; Send a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to a User Equipment (UE), wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE, wherein the second signal coverage information is used for the UE to compare with a first signal coverage information determined by the UE from broadcast information, and based on the comparison result, determine the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein, Sending a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to the UE includes: Send a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information to the UE.

7. The method according to claim 5, wherein, The acquisition of the second signal coverage information includes at least one of the following: Receive the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network NTN access network device; Obtain the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the operation and maintenance OAM network element.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, The second signal coverage information received from the non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network device includes: Receive a context release request message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein, The method further includes: Send an N2 UE context release command to the NTN access network device. The N2 UE context release command is used to trigger the access network device to send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

10. A method for determining signal coverage information, wherein, The method, executed by a non-terrestrial network (NTN) access network device, includes: A broadcast message carrying fourth signal coverage information is sent to a user equipment (UE), wherein the signal coverage information sent to the UE is used to enable the UE to determine the first signal coverage information; A fourth signal coverage information is sent to the core network device, wherein the fourth signal coverage information sent to the core network device is used to enable the core network device to determine a second signal coverage information, wherein the second signal coverage information is carried by the core network in a non-access stratum (NAS) message and sent to the UE, and the UE compares it with the first signal coverage information, and determines the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE based on the comparison result, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The sending of the fourth signal coverage information to the core network equipment includes: Send a context release request message carrying the fourth signal coverage information to the core network device.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The method further includes: Receive the N2 UE context release command sent by the core network device; According to the N2 UE context release command, an access network connection release request is sent to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

13. A signal coverage information determination device, wherein, The device includes: The first transceiver module is configured to receive broadcast information carrying first signal coverage information sent by non-terrestrial network NTN access network equipment; The first transceiver module is further configured to receive a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information sent by the core network device, wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the user equipment (UE). The processing module is configured to determine the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the first signal coverage information and the second signal coverage information.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The first transceiver module is specifically configured as follows: Receive a UE configuration update message sent by the core network device, which carries the second signal coverage information.

15. The apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The processing module is specifically configured as one of the following: In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is the same as the second signal coverage information, the first signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information; In response to the fact that the first signal coverage information is different from the second signal coverage information, the second signal coverage information is determined to be the third signal coverage information.

16. The apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The processing module is further configured as follows: Release the access network connection according to the access network connection release request sent by the NTN access network device.

17. A signal coverage information determination device, wherein, The device includes: The second transceiver module is configured to acquire second signal coverage information; The second transceiver module is further configured to send a non-access stratum (NAS) message carrying second signal coverage information to a user equipment (UE), wherein the NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE, and wherein the second signal coverage information is used for the UE to compare with the first signal coverage information determined by the UE from broadcast information, and based on the comparison result, to determine the third signal coverage information to be adopted by the UE.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, The second transceiver module is specifically configured as follows: Send a UE configuration update message carrying the second signal coverage information to the UE.

19. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein, The second transceiver module is further configured to include at least one of the following: Receive the second signal coverage information sent by the non-terrestrial network NTN access network device; Obtain the pre-stored second signal coverage information from the operation and maintenance OAM network element.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein, The second transceiver module is specifically configured as follows: Receive a context release request message carrying the second signal coverage information sent by the NTN access network device.

21. The apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein, The second transceiver module is further configured to send an N2 UE context release command to the NTN access network device. The N2 UE context release command is used to trigger the access network device to send an access network connection release request to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

22. A signal coverage information determination device, wherein, The device includes: The third transceiver module is configured to send broadcast information carrying fourth signal coverage information to the user equipment (UE), wherein the signal coverage information sent to the UE is used to enable the UE to determine the first signal coverage information; The third transceiver module is further configured to send fourth signal coverage information to the core network device. The fourth signal coverage information sent to the core network device is used to enable the core network device to determine second signal coverage information. The second signal coverage information is carried by the core network device in a non-access stratum (NAS) message and sent to the UE. The UE compares the second signal coverage information with the first signal coverage information and determines the third signal coverage information to be used by the UE based on the comparison result. The NAS message is related to the configuration update of the UE.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein, The third transceiver module is specifically configured as follows: Send a context release request message carrying the fourth signal coverage information to the core network device.

24. The apparatus according to claim 22 or 23, wherein, The third transceiver module is further configured as follows: Receive the N2 UE context release command sent by the core network device; According to the N2 UE context release command, an access network connection release request is sent to the UE, instructing the UE to release the access network connection.

25. A communication device apparatus, comprising a processor, a memory, and an executable program stored in the memory and executable by the processor, wherein, When the processor runs the executable program, it performs the steps of the signal coverage information determination method as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, 5 to 9, or 10 to 12.

26. A storage medium having an executable program stored thereon, wherein, When the executable program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of the signal coverage information determination method as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, 5 to 9, or 10 to 12.

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