Network capability exposure method and related devices

Abstract

The embodiment of the disclosure provides a network capability opening method and related equipment, and belongs to the technical field of communication. The method is executed by an application function network element, and the method comprises the following steps: sending a first network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, wherein the first network capability opening request message comprises application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information and shared capability opening request information; receiving a first response message returned by the first network capability opening function network element and corresponding to the first network capability opening request message, wherein the first response message comprises shared capability opening request indication information, and the shared capability opening request indication information is used for indicating whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to a second public land mobile network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a method for opening up network capabilities, communication equipment, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, if a third-party service provider needs to make open interaction requests to the communication network for the same service in order to obtain specific network open capabilities, it needs to interact with different operators separately. Moreover, the interface parameters (interaction parameters) of the open capability information of different operators / different communication networks, as well as the open network capabilities (such as type and quality), may be different. Therefore, it brings many inconveniences and problems to the network capability open interaction of third-party services, makes it difficult to provide unified user service capabilities for third-party services, and is inefficient. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure provides a network capability opening method, communication device, computer-readable storage medium, and computer program product, which are optimized for opening network capabilities of mobile communication networks to third-party services.

[0004] This disclosure provides a network capability opening method, executed by an application function network element. The method includes: sending a first network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, the first network capability opening request message including application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information; receiving a first response message returned by the first network capability opening function network element in response to the first network capability opening request message, the first response message including indication information of the shared capability opening request, the indication information of the shared capability opening request being used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request to a second public land mobile network.

[0005] This disclosure provides a method for opening up network capabilities, which is executed by a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network. The method includes: receiving a first network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element, the first network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information; authenticating and verifying the first network capability opening request message, generating a first response message, the first response message including indication information of the shared capability opening request, the indication information of the shared capability opening request being used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request to a second public land mobile network; and returning the first response message to the application function network element.

[0006] This disclosure provides a method for opening up network capabilities, which is executed by a second network capability opening function network element of a second public land mobile network. The method includes: receiving a second network capability opening request message from a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, the second network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, and second network capability opening request parameter information; authenticating and verifying the second network capability opening request message to generate a second response message, the second response message including capability opening indication information, the capability opening indication information being used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open up network capabilities to an application function network element; and returning the second response message to the application function network element.

[0007] This disclosure provides a network capability opening method, executed by an application function network element. The method includes: sending a third network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, the third network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information; receiving a shared capability opening request message returned by the first network capability opening function network element, the shared capability opening request message including second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability opening request; and returning a third response message to the first network capability opening function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message, the third response message including shared request indication information, the shared request indication information being used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0008] This disclosure provides a network capability opening method, executed by a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network. The method includes: receiving a third network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element, the third network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information; if the third network capability opening request message satisfies network capability opening sharing negotiation information, returning a shared capability opening request message to the application function network element, the shared capability opening request message including second public land mobile network identification information allowing the shared capability opening request; and receiving a third response message returned by the application function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message, the third response message including sharing request indication information, the sharing request indication information being used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0009] This disclosure provides an application function network element, including: a sending unit, configured to send a first network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, the first network capability opening request message including application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information; and a receiving unit, configured to receive a first response message returned by the first network capability opening function network element in response to the first network capability opening request message, the first response message including indication information of the shared capability opening request, the indication information of the shared capability opening request being used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to a second public land mobile network.

[0010] This disclosure provides a first network capability opening function network element for a first public land mobile network, comprising: a receiving unit, configured to receive a first network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element, the first network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information; a processing unit, configured to authenticate and verify the first network capability opening request message, and generate a first response message, the first response message including indication information of the shared capability opening request, the indication information of the shared capability opening request being used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to a second public land mobile network; and a sending unit, configured to return the first response message to the application function network element.

[0011] This disclosure provides a second network capability opening function network element for a second public land mobile network, comprising: a receiving unit, configured to receive a second network capability opening request message sent by a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, the second network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, and second network capability opening request parameter information; a processing unit, configured to authenticate and verify the second network capability opening request message, and generate a second response message, the second response message including capability opening indication information, the capability opening indication information being used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element; and a sending unit, configured to return the second response message to the application function network element.

[0012] This disclosure provides an application function network element, including: a sending unit, configured to send a third network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, the third network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information; a receiving unit, configured to receive a shared capability opening request message returned by the first network capability opening function network element, the shared capability opening request message including second public land mobile network identification information allowing the shared capability opening request; the sending unit is further configured to return a third response message to the first network capability opening function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message, the third response message including shared request indication information, the shared request indication information being used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0013] This disclosure provides a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, comprising: a receiving unit, configured to receive a third network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element, the third network capability opening request message including application function identification information, an opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information; a sending unit, configured to return a shared capability opening request message to the application function network element if the third network capability opening request message satisfies network capability opening sharing negotiation information, the shared capability opening request message including second public land mobile network identification information allowing the shared capability opening request; the receiving unit is further configured to receive a third response message returned by the application function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message, the third response message including shared request indication information, the shared request indication information being used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0014] This disclosure provides a communication device, including: one or more processors; and a memory configured to store one or more programs, wherein when the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors, the communication device implements the network capability opening method described in this disclosure.

[0015] This disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to implement the network capability opening method described in this disclosure.

[0016] This disclosure provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a computer, implements the network capability opening method described in this disclosure.

[0017] The method provided in some embodiments of this disclosure, when an application function network element sends a first network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, carries shared capability opening request information in the first network capability opening request message. This shared capability opening request information indicates whether the application function network element allows the shared capability opening request. The first public land mobile network and the second public land mobile network can be two mobile communication networks provided by different operators or two different mobile communication networks deployed by the same operator. This eliminates the need for the application function network element (third-party service provider) to interact with different mobile communication networks separately. The application function network element can submit a capability opening interaction request to one of the operators' mobile communication networks through the first network capability opening request message. On the one hand, this optimizes the network capability opening mechanism, simplifies the interaction process between the third-party service provider and different mobile communication networks, and improves interaction efficiency. On the other hand, the third-party service provider no longer needs to consider the differences in interaction parameters and network opening capabilities between different mobile communication networks, bringing convenience to the network capability opening interaction of third-party services. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a system architecture diagram of a 5G network provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0021] Figure 4 The illustration shows an interactive diagram of a network capability opening method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 5 The illustration shows an interactive diagram of a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0025] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 9 The diagram illustrates an interaction diagram of a network capability opening method according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Figure 11 A block diagram of an application function network element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0029] Figure 12 A block diagram of a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0030] Figure 13 A block diagram of a second network capability opening function network element of a second public land mobile network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0031] Figure 14 A schematic structural diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0032] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure more apparent, exemplary embodiments according to this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals denote the same elements throughout. It should be understood that the embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0033] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems, such as: Global System of Mobile communication (GSM) system, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) system, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) system, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) communication system, 5G system, or future evolved mobile communication systems, etc.

[0034] For example, the communication system 100 used in this disclosure embodiment is as follows: Figure 1 As shown. The communication system 100 may include a network device 110, which may be a device that communicates with a terminal 120 (or a communication terminal, terminal). The network device 110 can provide communication coverage for a specific geographical area and can communicate with terminals located within that coverage area. Optionally, the network device 110 may be a base station (BTS) in a GSM or CDMA system, a base station (NodeB, NB) in a WCDMA system, an evolved Node B (eNB or eNodeB) in an LTE system, a base station in a 5G communication system, or a radio controller in a Cloud Radio Access Network (CRAN). Alternatively, the network device may be a mobile switching center, relay station, access point, vehicle-mounted equipment, wearable device, hub, switch, bridge, router, network-side equipment in a 5G network, or network equipment in a future evolved Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), etc.

[0035] The communication system 100 also includes at least one terminal 120 located within the coverage area of ​​network device 110. As used herein, "terminal" includes, but is not limited to, devices configured to receive / transmit communication signals via wired connections, such as via Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN), Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), digital cable, direct cable connection; and / or another data connection / network; and / or via a wireless interface, such as for cellular networks, Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN), digital television networks such as DVB-H networks, satellite networks, AM-FM broadcast transmitters; and / or another terminal. A terminal configured to communicate via a wireless interface may be referred to as a "wireless communication terminal," "wireless terminal," or "mobile terminal." Examples of mobile terminals include, but are not limited to, satellite or cellular phones; personal communications system (PCS) terminals that can combine cellular radiotelephony with data processing, fax, and data communication capabilities; PDAs that may include radiotelephones, pagers, Internet / intranet access, web browsers, notebooks, calendars, and / or Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers; and conventional laptop and / or handheld receivers or other electronic devices that include radiotelephone transceivers. A terminal can refer to an access terminal, user equipment (UE), user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user equipment. Access terminals can be cellular phones, cordless phones, Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), handheld devices with wireless communication capabilities, computing devices or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, in-vehicle devices, wearable devices, terminals in 5G networks, or terminals in future PLMNs, etc.

[0036] Optionally, the terminals 120 can communicate directly with each other via Device to Device (D2D).

[0037] Figure 1An exemplary network device and two terminals are shown. Optionally, the communication system 100 may include multiple network devices and each network device may include other numbers of terminals within its coverage area. This disclosure does not limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0038] Optionally, the communication system 100 may also include other network elements such as policy control function network elements and access mobility management function network elements, which are not limited in this embodiment.

[0039] It should be understood that devices with communication functions in the network / system of this disclosure embodiment may be referred to as communication devices. Figure 1 Taking the communication system 100 shown as an example, the communication equipment may include a network device 110 and a terminal 120 with communication functions. The network device 110 and the terminal 120 may be the specific devices described above, which will not be repeated here.

[0040] It should be understood that the terms "system" and "network" are often used interchangeably in this paper. The term "and / or" in this paper is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone.

[0041] Figure 2 This is a system architecture diagram of a 5G network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the equipment involved in the 5G network system includes: UE, Radio Access Network (RAN), User Plane Function (UPF) network element, Data Network (DN), Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element, Session Management Function (SMF) network element, Policy Control Function (PCF) network element, Application Function (AF) network element, Authentication Server Function (AUSF) network element, and Unified Data Management (UDM) network element.

[0042] It should be noted that the "network capability openness" and "capability openness" mentioned in the embodiments of this disclosure refer to the abstraction and opening of network capabilities (such as 5G networks, but this disclosure is not limited to this) to achieve friendly interoperability and mutually beneficial cooperation between operator networks and third-party service providers, and to meet the needs of more abundant and flexible opening of mobile network capabilities to third parties.

[0043] Capability exposure supports the external exposure of network capabilities. The exposed service capabilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

[0044] 1) Network detection capability openness: This means that the network provides third parties with the ability to detect the congestion status of a certain area of ​​the network or the movement range of a certain terminal, and exposes these detection event information to the outside world through the NEF (Network Exposure Function) network element.

[0045] 2) Opening up basic network service capabilities: This refers to the network providing basic capabilities such as SMS, voice, and billing to third parties.

[0046] 3) Open network control capabilities: refers to the ability of the network to provide QoS (Quality of Service) guarantees and other capabilities to third parties.

[0047] 4) Open network information capabilities: This refers to the network providing internal network information to third parties, including real-time terminal connection attributes, terminal location information, or non-real-time big data analysis information.

[0048] 5) Open network slice orchestration and management capabilities: This refers to the network opening up its lifecycle management capabilities for network slices to third parties.

[0049] 6) Reverse capability opening: This refers to the ability of third parties to open up valuable information to the mobile network for network optimization and management, such as terminal communication modes and mobility information.

[0050] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically. Figure 3 The method provided in the embodiments can be executed by any communication device. For example, the communication device in the embodiments of this disclosure can be... Figure 2 The AF network element in the diagram is not limited to this.

[0051] like Figure 3 As shown, the method provided in this disclosure embodiment may include:

[0052] In S310, a first network capability opening request message is sent to the first network capability opening function (hereinafter referred to as NEF-1) network element of the first public land mobile network (PLMN A, hereinafter referred to as PLMN A).

[0053] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first network capability opening request message refers to a message sent by the AF network element to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A, which requests PLMN A to open network capabilities to the AF network element. The first network capability opening request message may include the application function identification information (represented as AF ID) of the application function network element, the open information notification address, the first network capability opening request parameter information, and the shared capability opening request information.

[0054] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the open information notification address refers to the address returned when PLMN A and / or PLMN B allow the opening of network capabilities to the AF network element, and the information about the opened network capabilities is returned. For example, it can be the IP (Internet Protocol) address of the AF network element. That is, the NEF-1 network element can return the capability opening notification message of PLMN A to the AF network element according to the open information notification address, and / or the NEF-2 network element can return the capability opening notification message of PLMN B directly or indirectly to the AF network element according to the open information notification address.

[0055] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first network capability opening request parameter information refers to the network capability that the AF network element requests to open to the AF network element. The specific first network capability opening request parameter can be set according to actual needs. For example, it may include Event ID (event identifier, referred to as the first event identifier here for distinction). Optionally, it may further include information reporting condition information (referred to as the first reporting condition information here for distinction), etc.

[0056] Optionally, the first network capability opening request parameter information may also include service flow template information.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, the service flow template information may include one or more of the following: source IP address (source network address), source port number, destination IP address (destination network address), destination port number, FQDN (Fully Qualified Domain Name), APP ID (Application identity).

[0058] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the target service flow refers to the service flow formed by the transmission of uplink data packets sent by the terminal and / or downlink data packets sent by the service server in the network for one or more target services. The target services can be set according to actual needs.

[0059] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the shared capability open request information can be used to indicate whether the AF network element allows the sharing of the first network capability open request message to other PLMNs besides the requested PLMN A.

[0060] If the shared capability open request information indicates that the application function network element allows the shared capability open request, then optionally, the first network capability open request message may also include the identification information of a second public land mobile network (hereinafter referred to as PLMN B) that allows the shared capability open request. The second public land mobile network identification information refers to any identification information that can uniquely identify the PLMN B. The second public land mobile network can be any one or more PLMNs other than PLMN A.

[0061] It should be noted that in other embodiments, when the shared capability open request information indicates that the application function network element allows the shared capability open request, the first network capability open request message may not include the second public land mobile network identification information. That is, the NEF-1 network element can determine which PLMN to which the shared AF network capability open request is given based on the shared capability open request information carried in the first network capability open request message and the negotiation between PLMN A and other PLMNs.

[0062] In S320, a first response message is received from the first network capability opening function network element in response to the first network capability opening request message.

[0063] In this embodiment of the present disclosure, after receiving the first network capability opening request message sent by the AF network element, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A performs authentication and authorization on the first network capability opening request message, generates a first response message based on the authentication and authorization result, and returns the first response message to the AF network element corresponding to the AF ID.

[0064] The first response message may include an indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message. If the authentication and authorization result is successful, the indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message may be "agree to the first network capability opening request message". Conversely, if the authentication and authorization result is unsuccessful, the indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message may be "disagree to the first network capability opening request message". If the NEF-1 network element rejects the first network capability opening request message, the first response message may also include a rejection reason value.

[0065] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first response message may include indication information of a shared capability opening request. The indication information of the shared capability opening request can be used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network corresponding to the second public land mobile network identification information.

[0066] In this embodiment, the indication information for the shared capability opening request and the indication information for "whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message" can share the same indication information. For example, the same field can be used. A first value indicates that the NEF-1 network element rejects the first network capability opening request message, that is, both PLMN A and PLMN B do not agree to open network capabilities to the AF network element. A second value indicates that the NEF-1 network element only agrees to PLMN A opening network capabilities to the AF network element, and does not support sharing the first network capability opening request message with PLMN B. A third value indicates that the NEF-1 network element agrees to PLMN A opening network capabilities to the AF network element, and supports sharing the first network capability opening request message with PLMN B. A fourth value indicates that the NEF-1 network element does not agree to PLMN A opening network capabilities to the AF network element, but supports sharing the first network capability opening request message with PLMN B. Alternatively, different indication information can be used. For example, two fields can be used to indicate whether the NEF-1 network element has successfully authenticated and authorized the first network capability opening request message, and the other field can indicate whether the PLMN where the NEF-1 network element is located has passed authentication and authorization. This disclosure does not limit whether A supports sharing the first network capability open request message with PLMN B.

[0067] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: receiving a second response message if the indication information of the shared capability opening request indicates that the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public terrestrial mobile network.

[0068] In this embodiment of the disclosure, if the NEF-1 network element agrees to share the first network capability opening request message with the second public land mobile network, the NEF-1 network element can inform the AF network element through the aforementioned sharing capability opening request indication information. Simultaneously, the NEF-1 network element can also generate a second network capability opening request message based on the first network capability opening request message and send the second network capability opening request message to the NEF-2 network element (second network capability opening function network element) of the PLMN B. When the NEF-2 network element receives the second network capability opening request message, it can authenticate and verify the second network capability opening request message to generate a second response message based on the authentication and verification results. The second response message includes capability opening indication information indicating whether or not the second network capability opening request message is agreed upon. If the authentication and verification result is successful, the capability opening indication information indicates that "the NEF-2 network element of the PLMN B agrees to the second network capability opening request message"; otherwise, the capability opening indication information indicates that "the NEF-2 network element of the PLMN B does not agree to the second network capability opening request message".

[0069] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: if the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then receiving a capability opening notification message from the second public land mobile network, the capability opening notification message including opening information content.

[0070] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after the NEF-2 network element agrees to open the network capabilities of PLMN B to the AF network element, the AF network element can receive a capability opening notification message from PLMN B. The capability opening notification message is used to indicate the relevant information of the network capabilities that PLMN B opens to the AF network element. For example, it may include opening information content to indicate what the network capabilities are.

[0071] In an exemplary embodiment, receiving the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network may include: receiving the capability opening notification message from the first network capability opening function network element or the second network capability opening function network element.

[0072] In some embodiments, after obtaining the Open Information Notification Address, the NEF-2 network element can directly send the PLMN B Capability Open Notification Message to the AF network element. In other embodiments, if the NEF-2 network element and the NEF-1 network element can communicate directly, the NEF-2 network element can first send the PLMN B Capability Open Notification Message to the NEF-1 network element, and then the NEF-1 network element can send the PLMN B Capability Open Notification Message to the AF network element.

[0073] In an exemplary embodiment, receiving a capability open notification message from the second public land mobile network may include: receiving the capability open notification message from a first interconnection gateway of the first public land mobile network or a second interconnection gateway of the second public land mobile network.

[0074] In some other embodiments, if NEF-1 and NEF-2 communicate through an interconnection gateway, NEF-2 can first send the capability open notification message of PLMN B to the interconnection gateway-2 (second interconnection gateway) of PLMN B, then the interconnection gateway-2 sends the capability open notification message of PLMN B to the interconnection gateway-1 (first interconnection gateway) of PLMN A, then the interconnection gateway-1 sends the capability open notification message of PLMN B to NEF-1, and then the NEF-1 sends the capability open notification message of PLMN B to the AF network element.

[0075] In some other embodiments, the NEF-2 network element can first send the PLMN B capability open notification message to the PLMNB interconnection gateway-2 (second interconnection gateway), and then the interconnection gateway-2 can send the PLMN B capability open notification message to the AF network element.

[0076] In some other embodiments, the NEF-2 network element can first send the capability open notification message of PLMN B to the interconnection gateway-2 (second interconnection gateway) of PLMNB, and then the interconnection gateway-2 sends the capability open notification message of PLMN B to the interconnection gateway-1 (first interconnection gateway) of PLMN A, and then the interconnection gateway-1 sends the capability open notification message of PLMN B to the AF network element.

[0077] In this embodiment of the disclosure, if the shared capability opening request information in the first network capability opening request message indicates that the AF network element does not allow the shared capability opening request, then the NEF-1 network element authenticates and authorizes the first network capability opening request message, generating a first response message. The first response message includes an indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message. If the indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message indicates that the NEF-1 network element rejects the first network capability opening request message, then the operation ends. If the indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message indicates that the NEF-1 network element agrees to the first network capability opening request message, then when the NEF-1 network element detects that the first reporting condition information is met, it sends the capability opening notification message of the PLMN A corresponding to the first event identifier to the AF network element.

[0078] In this embodiment of the disclosure, if the indication information of the shared capability opening request in the first response message indicates that the NEF-1 network element does not agree to the shared capability opening request to PLMN B, and the indication information of "whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message" in the first response message indicates that the NEF-1 network element rejects the first network capability opening request message, then the operation ends; if the indication information of "whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message" indicates that the NEF-1 network element agrees to the first network capability opening request message, then when the NEF-1 network element detects that the first reporting condition information is met, it sends the capability opening notification message of PLMN A corresponding to the first event identifier to the AF network element.

[0079] The network capability opening method provided in this disclosure, when an application function network element sends a first network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network, carries shared capability opening request information in the first network capability opening request message. This shared capability opening request information indicates whether the application function network element allows the shared capability opening request. Therefore, the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network can, based on the shared capability opening request information carried in the first network capability opening request message, return a first response message to the application function network element including indication information of the shared capability opening request. This indication information indicates whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network. In other words, the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network can act as a proxy for the application function network element. The first public land mobile network and the second public land mobile network can be two mobile communication networks provided by different operators or two different mobile communication networks deployed by the same operator. This eliminates the need for the application function network element to interact with different mobile networks separately. The application function network element can submit a capability opening interaction request to one of the operators' mobile communication networks through the first network capability opening request message. On the one hand, this optimizes the network capability opening mechanism, simplifies the interaction process between third-party service providers and different mobile communication networks, and improves interaction efficiency. On the other hand, third-party service providers no longer need to consider the differences in interaction parameters and network opening capabilities between different mobile communication networks, bringing convenience to the network capability opening interaction of third-party services.

[0080] Figure 4 In this embodiment, the AF network element actively requests the sharing capability to be enabled. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the method provided in this disclosure embodiment may include:

[0081] In S41, the AF network element sends a first network capability open request message to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A.

[0082] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the AF network element sends a first network capability open request message to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A. The first network capability open request message may include the AF ID of the AF network element, the open information notification address, the first network capability open request parameter information (e.g., the first Event ID, the first reporting condition information, and optionally, the service flow template information, etc.), and the shared capability open request information (information used to indicate whether the shared capability open request to other PLMNs is allowed). Optionally, it may further include the PLMN identification information that allows the capability open request. Here, PLMN B is used as an example for illustration.

[0083] In S42, the NEF-1 network element returns the first response message to the AF network element.

[0084] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the NEF-1 network element receives the first network capability opening request message, authenticates and authorizes the first network capability opening request message sent by the AF network element, and returns a first response message to the AF network element. The first response message may contain an indication of whether to agree to the first network capability opening request message, and if it is rejected, it may also contain a rejection reason value.

[0085] If the NEF-1 network element only agrees to allow PLMN A to open its network capabilities to the AF network element and does not support sharing the first network capability opening request message with PLMN B, it can also instruct the NEF-1 network element to refuse the sharing capability opening request to PLMN B through the indication information of the sharing capability opening request in the first response message in S42. Optionally, it can also include a reason value for refusing the sharing capability opening request (such as PLMN A does not support sharing, or PLMN B does not support sharing, etc.). In this case, it is not necessary to execute subsequent S43-S45.

[0086] Optionally, in S43a, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A sends a second network capability open request message to the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B through the interconnection gateway-1 of PLMN A and the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B, respectively.

[0087] For example, the NEF-1 network element can also generate a second network capability opening request message based on the first network capability opening request message, and send the second network capability opening request message to the interconnection gateway-1 of PLMN A. The second network capability opening request message may include the identifier of the target PLMN B (i.e., the second public land mobile network identifier information), the identifier of this PLMN A (i.e., the first public land mobile network identifier information), AF ID, opening information notification address, second network capability opening request parameter information, etc. The second network capability opening request parameter information may include the second event ID, and optionally, may further include the second reporting condition information; optionally, it may also include service flow template information, etc.

[0088] In this embodiment, the second network capability opening request parameter information may be the same as, different from, or partially the same as the first network capability opening request parameter information. The second Event ID may be the same as or different from the first Event ID. The first reporting condition information may be the same as or different from the second reporting condition information. The second network capability opening request parameter information can be determined by the NEF-1 network element based on the first network capability opening request parameter information, as well as various factors such as the network capabilities that the PLMN B can open and the required interface parameters. That is, the AF network element (such as a third-party service provider) does not need to consider the differences in the interaction parameters and network opening capabilities of mobile communication networks provided by different operators. Instead, the PLMN A acts as an agent for the AF network element to negotiate with other PLMN Bs.

[0089] Interconnection Gateway-1 sends the second network capability opening request message to the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B based on the identification information of the target PLMN B contained in the second network capability opening request message (multiple interconnection gateways can be used between two PLMNs, and the specific number is not limited in this disclosure). Interconnection Gateway-2 then sends the second network capability opening request message to the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B.

[0090] Optionally, in S43b, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A sends a second network capability open request message to the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B.

[0091] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the NEFs of the two PLMNs can interact directly, there is no need for an interconnection gateway. That is, the NEF-1 network element can directly send the second network capability opening request message to the NEF-2 network element.

[0092] Optionally, in S44a, the NEF-2 network element returns a second response message to the NEF-1 network element through the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B and the interconnection gateway-1 of PLMN A, respectively.

[0093] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the NEF-2 network element authenticates and authorizes the second network capability opening request message, and returns a second response message to the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B. The second response message may include the identifier of the target PLMN A (first public land mobile network identifier information), the identifier of this PLMN B (second public land mobile network identifier information), and capability opening indication information. The capability opening indication information is used to indicate whether the NEF-2 network element agrees to open network capabilities to the AF network element. If it refuses, it may include a rejection reason value.

[0094] Interconnection Gateway-2 forwards the second response message to Interconnection Gateway-1 of PLMN A based on the identifier of the target PLMN A. Interconnection Gateway-1 then sends the second response message to the NEF-1 network element.

[0095] Optionally, in S44b, the NEF-2 network element returns a second response message to the NEF-1 network element.

[0096] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the NEFs of the two PLMNs can interact directly, there is no need for an interconnection gateway. That is, the NEF-2 network element can directly send the second response message to the NEF-1 network element.

[0097] Optionally, in S45, the NEF-1 network element returns a second response message to the AF network element.

[0098] In this embodiment of the disclosure, after receiving the second response message, the NEF-1 network element can forward the second response message to the AF network element.

[0099] Optionally, in S44c, the NEF-2 network element can directly return a second response message to the AF network element based on the open information notification address.

[0100] like Figure 5 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment may further include: when Figure 4 When the network information of the PLMN B meets the second reporting condition, a PLMN B capability opening notification message can be generated. The path of this PLMN B capability opening notification message depends on whether the interconnecting gateway can directly send the message to... Figure 4 The open information notification address in the document can have the following optional processes:

[0101] In S51a, the NEF-2 network element returns PLMN B capability opening notification messages to the AF network element through PLMN B interconnection gateway-2, PLMN A interconnection gateway-1, and NEF-1 network element, respectively.

[0102] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when Figure 4When the network information of PLMN B meets the second reporting condition, the NEF-2 network element can send a PLMN B capability open notification message to the interconnecting gateway-2 of PLMN B. The PLMN B capability open notification message may include the identifier of the target PLMN A, the identifier of this PLMN B, the open information notification address, and the open information content of the PLMN B. Interconnecting gateway-2 then sends this PLMN B capability open notification message to the interconnecting gateway-1 of PLMN A. Interconnecting gateway-1 then sends the PLMN B capability open notification message to the NEF-1 network element, and finally to the aforementioned open information notification address.

[0103] Optionally, in S51b, the NEF-2 network element returns a PLMN B capability open notification message to the AF network element through the PLMN B interconnection gateway-2 and the PLMN A interconnection gateway-1, respectively.

[0104] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the network information of PLMN B meets the second reporting condition information, the NEF-2 network element can send a PLMN B capability opening notification message to the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B. The PLMN B capability opening notification message includes the identifier of the target PLMN A, the identifier of this PLMN B, the opening information notification address, and the opening information content of PLMN B. Interconnection gateway-2 sends the PLMN B capability opening notification message to the interconnection gateway-1 of PLMN A, and interconnection gateway-1 sends the PLMN B capability opening notification message to the aforementioned opening information notification address.

[0105] Optionally, in S51c, the NEF-2 network element returns a PLMN B capability open notification message to the AF network element through the PLMN B interconnection gateway-2.

[0106] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the network information of the PLMN B meets the second reporting condition information, the NEF-2 network element can send a PLMN B capability opening notification message to the PLMN B interconnection gateway-2. The PLMN B capability opening notification message contains the identifier of this PLMN B, the opening information notification address, and the opening information content of the PLMN B. The interconnection gateway-2 then sends the PLMN B capability opening notification message to the aforementioned opening information notification address.

[0107] Optionally, in S51d, the NEF-2 network element sends a PLMN B capability open notification message to the NEF-1 network element, and the NEF-1 network element then returns the PLMN B capability open notification message to the AF network element.

[0108] Optionally, in S51e, the NEF-2 network element sends a PLMN B capability open notification message to the AF network element.

[0109] That is, when the NEFs of two PLMNs can interact directly, they do not need to communicate with each other via a gateway. In other words, the NEF-2 network element can directly send the capability opening notification message of PLMN B to NEF-1, and then NEF-1 can send it to the AF network element; or the NEF-2 network element can directly send the capability opening notification message of PLMN B to the AF network element.

[0110] Optionally, in S52, the NEF-1 network element returns a capability open notification message for PLMN A to the AF network element.

[0111] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the network information of PLMN A meets the first reporting condition information, the NEF-1 network element can send a PLMN A capability open notification message to the aforementioned open information notification address. The PLMN A capability open notification message contains the open information content of PLMN A.

[0112] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0113] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0114] like Figure 6 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment can be executed by a first network capability open function network element of a first public land mobile network. The method provided in this embodiment may include:

[0115] In S610, the first network capability open request message sent by the application function network element is received.

[0116] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the first network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information.

[0117] If the shared capability open request information indicates that the application function network element allows the shared capability open request, optionally, the first network capability open request message may also include second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability open request.

[0118] In S620, the first network capability opening request message is authenticated and authorized to generate a first response message.

[0119] The first response message may include indication information of a shared capability opening request, which may be used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0120] In S630, the first response message is returned to the application function network element.

[0121] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: if the indication information of the shared capability opening request indicates that the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request with the second public land mobile network, then sending a second network capability opening request message to the second network capability opening function network element of the second public land mobile network, the second network capability opening request message may include the application function identification information, the opening information notification address, and the second network capability opening request parameter information; receiving a second response message in response to the second network capability opening request message, the second response message may include capability opening indication information, the capability opening indication information being used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element; and forwarding the second response message to the application function network element.

[0122] In an exemplary embodiment, the second network capability opening request parameter information may include a second event identifier.

[0123] In an exemplary embodiment, the second network capability opening request parameter information may further include second reporting condition information.

[0124] In an exemplary embodiment, sending a second network capability opening request message to a second network capability opening function network element of a second public land mobile network may include: sending the second network capability opening request message to a first interconnection gateway of the first public land mobile network. The second network capability opening request message may also include second public land mobile network identification information and first public land mobile network identification information.

[0125] The second network capability open request message can be used to instruct the first interconnecting gateway to send the second network capability open request message to the second interconnecting gateway of the second public land mobile network based on the second public land mobile network identification information.

[0126] The second network capability open request message can also be used to instruct the second interconnection gateway to send the second network capability open request message to the second network capability open function network element.

[0127] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: if the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then receiving the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network, the capability opening notification message may include opening information content; and sending the capability opening notification message to the application function network element.

[0128] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0129] Figure 7 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0130] like Figure 7 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment can be executed by a second network capability open function network element of a second public land mobile network. The method provided in this embodiment may include:

[0131] In S710, a second network capability opening request message is received from the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network.

[0132] The second network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, PLMN B identification, opening information notification address, and second network capability opening request parameter information.

[0133] In S720, the second network capability opening request message is authenticated and authorized to generate a second response message. The second response message may include capability opening indication information, which can be used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element.

[0134] In S730, the second response message is returned to the application function network element.

[0135] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: if the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then generating a capability opening notification message for the second public land mobile network, the capability opening notification message may include opening information content; and sending the capability opening notification message for the second public land mobile network to the application function network element.

[0136] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0137] The network capability opening method provided in this embodiment allows an AF network element to proactively request to share capability opening requests with other PLMNs besides the requested PLMN.

[0138] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0139] like Figure 8 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment can be executed by an application function network element, and the method provided in this embodiment may include:

[0140] In S810, a third network capability opening request message is sent to the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network.

[0141] The third network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information.

[0142] In S820, the shared capability opening request message returned by the first network capability opening function network element is received.

[0143] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the NEF-1 network element receives a third network capability opening request message sent by the AF network element, the third network capability opening request message does not carry the aforementioned shared capability opening request information, that is, the AF network element does not actively request the shared capability opening request. However, the NEF-1 network element can send a shared capability opening request message to the AF network element. This shared capability opening request message may include the second public land mobile network identifier information that allows the shared capability opening request. Taking the aforementioned PLMN B as an example, it inquires whether the AF network element agrees to send a capability opening request to the PLMN B.

[0144] In S830, a third response message is returned to the first network capability opening function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message.

[0145] After receiving the shared capability open request message sent by the NEF-1 network element, the AF network element can generate a third response message. The third response message may include shared request indication information, which can be used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability open request to the second public land mobile network corresponding to the second public land mobile network identification information.

[0146] In an exemplary embodiment, the method may further include: if the sharing request indication information indicates that the application function network element agrees to share the capability opening request to the second public land mobile network, then receiving a capability opening notification message from the second public land mobile network, wherein the capability opening notification message from the second public land mobile network includes opening information content.

[0147] In this embodiment of the disclosure, if the sharing request indication information indicates that the AF network element does not agree to the sharing capability opening request to the PLMN B, then the AF network element will not receive the capability opening notification message sent by the PLMN B.

[0148] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be referred to the descriptions of the other embodiments described above, and will be discussed below in conjunction with... Figure 9 Examples are provided for illustration.

[0149] Figure 9 The example illustrates how a NEF network element (taking the NEF-1 network element as an example) actively requests to open its shared capabilities to an AF network element.

[0150] like Figure 9 As shown, the method provided in this disclosure embodiment may include:

[0151] In S91, PLMN B and PLMN A negotiate to support open sharing of network capabilities.

[0152] In this embodiment, PLMN A and PLMN B negotiate whether to support the sharing of network capability openness. The negotiation content may include whether to support capability openness sharing for a specific AF, capability openness sharing for a certain type of service, the Event ID of the network capability openness that can be supported, the reporting conditions for the network information openness that can be supported, etc., and the negotiated content is referred to as network capability openness sharing negotiation information. The network element supporting the negotiation can be the NEF of the two PLMNs, or the network management system of the two PLMNs, etc., and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0153] In one scenario, NEF-1 sends a negotiation message to NEF-2 to negotiate support for the sharing of open network capabilities. The negotiation message carries the AF identifier, service flow template information, event ID, and reporting conditions for open network information, etc. NEF-2 returns a response message to inform NEF-1 whether it agrees to the negotiation.

[0154] In another scenario, NEF-2 sends a negotiation message to NEF-1 to negotiate support for the sharing of open network capabilities. The negotiation message carries the AF identifier, service flow template information, event ID, and reporting conditions for open network information, etc. NEF-1 returns a response message to inform NEF-2 whether it agrees to the negotiation.

[0155] For example, the NEF-1 network element can send a negotiation message to the NEF-2 network element through interconnection gateway-1 and interconnection gateway-2 to negotiate support for the sharing of open network capabilities. The negotiation message carries at least one of the following: AF ID, service flow template information, event ID, and reporting conditions for open network information. The NEF-2 network element can return a response message through interconnection gateway-2 and interconnection gateway-1 to inform the NEF-1 network element whether it agrees to the negotiation.

[0156] For example, the NEF-2 network element can send a negotiation message to the NEF-1 network element through interconnection gateway-2 and interconnection gateway-1 to negotiate support for the sharing of open network capabilities. The negotiation message carries at least one of the following: AF ID, service flow template information, event ID, and reporting conditions for open network information. The NEF-1 network element returns a response message through interconnection gateway-1 and interconnection gateway-2 to inform the NEF-2 network element whether it agrees to the negotiation.

[0157] In S92, the AF network element sends a third network capability open request message to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A.

[0158] When the AF network element sends a third network capability opening request message to the NEF-1 network element, the third network capability opening request message may include the AF ID, the opening information notification address, the first network capability opening request parameter information, etc. The first network capability opening request parameter information may include the first Event ID, and optionally, may also include the first reporting condition information; optionally, it may also include service flow template information, etc.

[0159] In S93, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A returns a shared capability open request message to the AF network element.

[0160] When the third network capability open request message sent by the AF network element satisfies the shareable capability openness in the network capability openness sharing negotiation information, a shared capability open request message is sent to the AF network element. The shared capability open request message may contain the identification information of the shared PLMN B (second public land mobile network identification information). If it can be shared with multiple PLMNs, the identification information of multiple PLMNs is returned.

[0161] In S94, the AF network element returns a third response message to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A.

[0162] After receiving the shared capability open request message, the AF network element can return a third response message to the NEF-1 network element. The third response message may include shared request indication information, which can indicate whether the AF network element agrees to the shared capability open request to the second public land mobile network corresponding to the second public land mobile network identification information.

[0163] When the NEF-1 network element receives a sharing request indication information in the third response message indicating that the AF network element agrees to share the capability opening request to the second public land mobile network, the NEF-1 network element can generate a fourth network capability opening request message. The fourth network capability opening request message may include the AF ID, the second network capability opening request parameter information, etc. The second network capability opening request parameter information may include the second Event ID, and optionally, may further include the second reporting condition information; optionally, it may also include service flow template information, etc.

[0164] Optionally, in S95a, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A sends a fourth network capability open request message to the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B through the interconnection gateway-1 of PLMN A and the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B in sequence.

[0165] Optionally, in S95b, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A sends a fourth network capability open request message to the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B.

[0166] When the NEF-2 network element receives the fourth network capability opening request message, it can authenticate and verify the fourth network capability opening request message and generate a fourth response message.

[0167] Optionally, in S96a, the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B sends a fourth response message to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A through the interconnection gateway-2 of PLMN B and the interconnection gateway-1 of PLMN A in sequence.

[0168] Optionally, in S96b, the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B sends a fourth response message to the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A.

[0169] Optionally, in S96c, the NEF-2 network element returns a fourth response message to the AF network element.

[0170] Optionally, in S97, the NEF-1 network element returns a fourth response message to the AF network element.

[0171] When the AF network element agrees to the capability openness request for sharing, the NEF-1 network element of PLMN A will complete the capability openness sharing request process to the NEF-2 network element of PLMN B. After the request process is completed, the open information content (i.e., capability openness information) in PLMN B can be accessed through... Figure 5 The process is notified to the AF network element.

[0172] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0173] The network capability opening method provided in this disclosure can enable different PLMNs to negotiate and share network capability opening.

[0174] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating a network capability opening method according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0175] like Figure 10 As shown, the method provided in this embodiment can be executed by a first network capability open function network element of a first public land mobile network. The method provided in this embodiment may include:

[0176] In S1010, a third network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element is received. The third network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information.

[0177] In S1020, if the third network capability opening request message satisfies the network capability opening sharing negotiation information, a shared capability opening request message is returned to the application function network element. The shared capability opening request message may include second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability opening request.

[0178] In S1030, a third response message is received from the application function network element in response to the shared capability open request message. The third response message includes shared request indication information, which can be used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability open request to the second public land mobile network.

[0179] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0180] Figure 11 A block diagram of an application function network element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0181] like Figure 11 As shown, the application function network element 1100 provided in this embodiment may include a transmitting unit 1110 and a receiving unit 1120.

[0182] The sending unit 1110 can be used to send a first network capability opening request message to a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network. The first network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information.

[0183] In an exemplary embodiment, if the shared capability open request information indicates that the application function network element allows the shared capability open request, the first network capability open request message may further include second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability open request.

[0184] The receiving unit 1120 can be used to receive a first response message returned by the first network capability opening function network element in response to the first network capability opening request message. The first response message may include indication information of sharing capability opening request. The indication information of sharing capability opening request can be used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0185] In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving unit 1120 may also be configured to receive a second response message if the indication information of the shared capability opening request indicates that the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request to the second public land mobile network. The second response message may include capability opening indication information, which may be used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element of the second public land mobile network agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element.

[0186] In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving unit 1120 may also be configured to: if the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then receive the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network, wherein the capability opening notification message may include opening information content.

[0187] In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving unit 1120 may also be used to: receive the capability opening notification message from the first network capability opening function network element or the second network capability opening function network element.

[0188] In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving unit 1120 may also be used to receive the capability opening notification message from a first interconnection gateway of the first public land mobile network or a second interconnection gateway of the second public land mobile network.

[0189] In an exemplary embodiment, the first network capability opening request parameter information may include a first event identifier.

[0190] In an exemplary embodiment, the first network capability opening request parameter information may further include first reporting condition information.

[0191] In an exemplary embodiment, the first network capability opening request parameter information may further include service flow template information.

[0192] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0193] Figure 12 A block diagram of a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0194] like Figure 12 As shown, the first network capability opening function network element 1200 provided in this embodiment may include a receiving unit 1210, a processing unit 1220, and a sending unit 1230.

[0195] The receiving unit 1210 can be used to receive a first network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element. The first network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information.

[0196] In an exemplary embodiment, if the shared capability open request information indicates that the application function network element allows the shared capability open request, the first network capability open request message may further include second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability open request.

[0197] The processing unit 1220 can be used to authenticate and verify the first network capability opening request message, and generate a first response message. The first response message may include indication information of the shared capability opening request, which can be used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request with the second public land mobile network.

[0198] The sending unit 1230 can be used to return the first response message to the application function network element.

[0199] In an exemplary embodiment, the sending unit 1230 may further be configured to: if the indication information of the shared capability opening request indicates that the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request with the second public land mobile network, then send a second network capability opening request message to the second network capability opening function network element of the second public land mobile network. The second network capability opening request message includes the application function identification information, the opening information notification address, and the second network capability opening request parameter information. The receiving unit 1210 may further be configured to: receive a second response message in response to the second network capability opening request message. The second response message includes capability opening indication information, which indicates whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element. The sending unit 1230 may further be configured to: forward the second response message to the application function network element.

[0200] In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving unit 1210 may further be configured to: receive a capability opening notification message from the second public land mobile network if the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, wherein the capability opening notification message includes opening information content. The sending unit 1230 may further be configured to: send the capability opening notification message to the application function network element.

[0201] In an exemplary embodiment, the second network capability opening request parameter information may include a second event identifier.

[0202] In an exemplary embodiment, the second network capability opening request parameter information may further include second reporting condition information.

[0203] In an exemplary embodiment, the sending unit 1230 may further be used to: send the second network capability opening request message to the first interconnection gateway of the first public land mobile network, wherein the second network capability opening request message further includes the second public land mobile network identification information and the first public land mobile network identification information.

[0204] The second network capability open request message can be used to instruct the first interconnecting gateway to send the second network capability open request message to the second interconnecting gateway of the second public land mobile network based on the second public land mobile network identification information.

[0205] The second network capability open request message can also be used to instruct the second interconnection gateway to send the second network capability open request message to the second network capability open function network element.

[0206] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0207] Figure 13 A block diagram of a second network capability opening function network element of a second public land mobile network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0208] like Figure 13 As shown, the second network capability opening function network element 1300 provided in this embodiment may include a receiving unit 1310, a processing unit 1320, and a sending unit 1330.

[0209] The receiving unit 1310 can be used to receive a second network capability opening request message sent by a first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network. The second network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address and second network capability opening request parameter information.

[0210] Processing unit 1320 can be used to authenticate and verify the second network capability opening request message and generate a second response message. The second response message may include capability opening indication information, which can be used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to application function network elements.

[0211] The sending unit 1330 can be used to return the second response message to the application function network element.

[0212] In an exemplary embodiment, the processing unit 1320 may further be configured to: if the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, generate a capability opening notification message for the second public land mobile network, wherein the capability opening notification message may include opening information content. The sending unit 1330 may further be configured to: send the capability opening notification message for the second public land mobile network to the application function network element.

[0213] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0214] Furthermore, this disclosure also provides an application function network element, which may include a transmitting unit and a receiving unit.

[0215] The sending unit can be used to send a third network capability opening request message to the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network. The third network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information.

[0216] The receiving unit can be used to receive a shared capability opening request message returned by the first network capability opening function network element. The shared capability opening request message may include second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability opening request.

[0217] The sending unit can also be used to return a third response message to the first network capability opening function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message. The third response message may include shared request indication information, which may be used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0218] In an exemplary embodiment, the receiving unit may also be configured to: if the sharing request indication information indicates that the application function network element agrees to share the capability opening request to the second public land mobile network, then receive the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network, wherein the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network may include opening information content.

[0219] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0220] This disclosure also provides a first network capability open function network element of a first public land mobile network, which may include a receiving unit and a transmitting unit.

[0221] The receiving unit can be used to receive a third network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element. The third network capability opening request message may include application function identification information, opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information.

[0222] The sending unit can be used to return a shared capability opening request message to the application function network element if the third network capability opening request message satisfies the network capability opening sharing negotiation information. The shared capability opening request message may include second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability opening request.

[0223] The receiving unit can also be used to receive a third response message returned by the application function network element in response to the shared capability opening request message. The third response message may include shared request indication information, which can be used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network.

[0224] Other aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be found in the other embodiments described above.

[0225] Figure 14 The diagram illustrates a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 1400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This communication device can be a terminal, such as a UE, a network device, such as a base station, or a NEF network element and / or an AF network element and / or an interconnection gateway, etc. Figure 14 The communication device 1400 shown includes a processor 1410, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0226] Optionally, such as Figure 14 As shown, the communication device 1400 may further include a memory 1420. The processor 1410 can retrieve and run computer programs from the memory 1420 to implement the methods described in this embodiment.

[0227] The memory 1420 can be a separate device independent of the processor 1410, or it can be integrated into the processor 1410.

[0228] Optionally, such as Figure 14 As shown, the communication device 1400 may also include a transceiver 1430, and the processor 1410 may control the transceiver 1430 to communicate with other devices. Specifically, it may send information or data to other devices or receive information or data sent by other devices.

[0229] The transceiver 1430 may include a transmitter and a receiver. The transceiver 1430 may further include an antenna, and the number of antennas may be one or more.

[0230] Optionally, the communication device 1400 may specifically be various network elements in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the communication device 1400 may implement the corresponding processes implemented by each network element in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0231] Optionally, the communication device 1400 may specifically be a network device in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the communication device 1400 may implement the corresponding processes implemented by the network device in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0232] Optionally, the communication device 1400 may specifically be a mobile terminal / terminal in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the communication device 1400 may implement the corresponding processes implemented by the mobile terminal / terminal in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0233] It should be understood that the processor in this embodiment of the disclosure may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, the steps of the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by software instructions.

[0234] The aforementioned processor can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. This storage medium is located in memory; the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above methods.

[0235] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this disclosure can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Double Data Rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous DRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory. It should be understood that the above-described memory is exemplary and not limiting.

[0236] This disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing computer programs.

[0237] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the network device in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the network device in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure, which will not be described in detail here for the sake of brevity.

[0238] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to each network element in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by each network element in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, these will not be described in detail here.

[0239] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the mobile terminal / terminal in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the mobile terminal / terminal in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, these will not be described in detail here.

[0240] This disclosure also provides a computer program product, including computer program instructions.

[0241] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the network device in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program instructions cause the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the network device in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, they will not be described in detail here.

[0242] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to each network element in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program instructions cause the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by each network element in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, these will not be described in detail here.

[0243] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the mobile terminal / terminal in the embodiments of this disclosure, and the computer program instructions cause the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the mobile terminal / terminal in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, these will not be described in detail here.

[0244] This disclosure also provides a computer program.

[0245] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the network device in the embodiments of this disclosure. When the computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the network device in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0246] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to each network element in the embodiments of this disclosure. When the computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by each network element in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0247] Optionally, the computer program can be applied to the mobile terminal / terminal in the embodiments of this disclosure. When the computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the mobile terminal / terminal in the various methods of the embodiments of this disclosure. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0248] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this disclosure.

[0249] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0250] In the several embodiments provided in this disclosure, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed.

[0251] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0252] Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this disclosure can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. If the functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this disclosure, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this disclosure. The aforementioned storage medium includes: USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

[0253] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for opening up network capabilities, characterized in that, The method is executed by an application function network element, and the method includes: Send a first network capability opening request message to the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network. The first network capability opening request message includes application function identification information, opening information notification address, first network capability opening request parameter information, and shared capability opening request information. The system receives a first response message returned by the first network capability opening function network element in response to the first network capability opening request message. The first response message includes indication information for sharing the capability opening request. The indication information for sharing the capability opening request is used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request with the second public land mobile network. The sharing capability opening request refers to generating a second network capability opening request message based on the first network capability opening request message and sending the second network capability opening request message to the second public land mobile network.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the shared capability open request information indicates that the application function network element allows the shared capability open request, then the first network capability open request message also includes second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability open request.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Also includes: If the indication information of the shared capability opening request indicates that the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request with the second public land mobile network, then a second response message is received. The second response message includes capability opening indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element of the second public land mobile network agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Also includes: If the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network is received, and the capability opening notification message includes opening information content.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first network capability opening request parameter information includes a first event identifier.

6. A method for opening up network capabilities, characterized in that, The method is executed by a first network capability open function (CVC) element of a first public land mobile network, and the method includes: Receive a first network capability open request message sent by an application function network element. The first network capability open request message includes application function identification information, open information notification address, first network capability open request parameter information, and shared capability open request information. The first network capability opening request message is authenticated and certified to generate a first response message. The first response message includes indication information of the shared capability opening request. The indication information of the shared capability opening request is used to indicate whether the first network capability opening function network element agrees to share the capability opening request to the second public land mobile network. The shared capability opening request refers to generating a second network capability opening request message based on the first network capability opening request message and sending the second network capability opening request message to the second public land mobile network. The first response message is returned to the application function network element.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Also includes: If the indication information of the shared capability opening request indicates that the first network capability opening function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network, then a second network capability opening request message is sent to the second network capability opening function network element of the second public land mobile network. The second network capability opening request message includes the application function identification information, the opening information notification address, and the second network capability opening request parameter information. Receive a second response message in response to the second network capability opening request message. The second response message includes capability opening indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element. The second response message is forwarded to the application function network element.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Also includes: If the capability opening indication information indicates that the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network is received, and the capability opening notification message includes opening information content; The capability opening notification message is sent to the application function network element.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The second network capability opening request parameter information includes a second event identifier.

10. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Sending a second network capability opening request message to the second network capability opening function network element of the second public land mobile network, including: Send the second network capability open request message to the first interconnection gateway of the first public land mobile network. The second network capability open request message also includes the second public land mobile network identification information and the first public land mobile network identification information. The second network capability open request message is used to instruct the first interconnection gateway to send the second network capability open request message to the second interconnection gateway of the second public land mobile network according to the second public land mobile network identification information; The second network capability opening request message is also used to instruct the second interconnection gateway to send the second network capability opening request message to the second network capability opening function network element.

11. A method for opening up network capabilities, characterized in that, The method is performed by a second network capability open function (CLOSE) network element of a second public land mobile network, and the method includes: Receive a second network capability opening request message sent by a first network capability opening function network element of a first public land mobile network. The second network capability opening request message includes application function identification information, opening information notification address and second network capability opening request parameter information. The second network capability opening request message is authenticated and certified to generate a second response message. The second response message includes capability opening indication information, which is used to indicate whether the second network capability opening function network element agrees to open network capabilities to the application function network element. The second response message is returned to the application function network element.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Also includes: If the capability opening indication information instructs the second network capability opening function network element to agree to open network capabilities to the application function network element, then a capability opening notification message for the second public land mobile network is generated, and the capability opening notification message includes opening information content; Send a capability open notification message for the second public land mobile network to the application function network element.

13. A method for opening up network capabilities, characterized in that, The method is executed by an application function network element, and the method includes: Send a third network capability opening request message to the first network capability opening function network element of the first public land mobile network. The third network capability opening request message includes application function identification information, opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information. Receive a shared capability opening request message returned by the first network capability opening function network element, wherein the shared capability opening request message includes second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability opening request; The application function network element returns a third response message in response to the shared capability opening request message. The third response message includes shared request indication information, which is used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network. The shared capability opening request refers to generating a fourth network capability opening request message based on the third network capability opening request message and sending the fourth network capability opening request message to the second public land mobile network.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, Also includes: If the sharing request indication information indicates that the application function network element agrees to share the capability opening request with the second public land mobile network, then the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network is received, and the capability opening notification message of the second public land mobile network includes opening information content.

15. A method for opening up network capabilities, characterized in that, The method is executed by a first network capability open function (CVC) element of a first public land mobile network, and the method includes: Receive a third network capability opening request message sent by an application function network element. The third network capability opening request message includes application function identification information, opening information notification address, and first network capability opening request parameter information. If the third network capability opening request message satisfies the network capability opening sharing negotiation information, then a shared capability opening request message is returned to the application function network element. The shared capability opening request message includes the second public land mobile network identification information that allows the shared capability opening request. The application function network element receives a third response message in response to the shared capability opening request message. The third response message includes shared request indication information, which is used to indicate whether the application function network element agrees to the shared capability opening request to the second public land mobile network. The shared capability opening request refers to generating a fourth network capability opening request message based on the third network capability opening request message and sending the fourth network capability opening request message to the second public land mobile network.

16. A communication device, characterized in that, include: One or more processors; A memory configured to store one or more programs, which, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5; or, The method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10; or, The method as described in claim 11 or 12; or, The method as described in claim 13 or 14; or, The method as described in claim 15.

17. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, characterized in that, When the computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5; or, The method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10; or, The method as described in claim 11 or 12; or, The method as described in claim 13 or 14; or, The method as described in claim 15.

18. A computer program product, comprising a computer program, characterized in that, When executed by a computer, the computer program implements the method described in any one of claims 1 to 5; or... The method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10; or, The method as described in claim 11 or 12; or, The method as described in claim 13 or 14; or, The method as described in claim 15.

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