Method, apparatus and storage medium for managing network control relay (NCR)

Abstract

The embodiment of the application provides a network control relay (NCR) management method and device and a storage medium, wherein the method comprises the following steps: receiving NCR configuration information sent by a network device, wherein the NCR configuration information is generated based on first authorization information, and the first authorization information is used to indicate whether a core network device authorizes the identity of a terminal NCR; and performing radio frequency forwarding work based on the NCR identity according to the NCR configuration information. The NCR management method, device and storage medium provided by the embodiment of the application are characterized in that the NCR obtains the NCR configuration information generated by the network device based on the first authorization information of the core network device authorizing the identity of the terminal NCR, and performs the radio frequency forwarding work based on the NCR configuration information, so that the authorization and configuration process of the NCR are clear.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a management method, apparatus and storage medium for a network control relay (NCR). Background Technology

[0002] To improve or expand network coverage, mobile communication systems introduce repeaters to forward signals from network devices and terminals (User Equipment, UE). However, repeaters do not perform protocol processing on air interface signaling and data.

[0003] To better support the management and deployment of repeaters, a new type of Network Controlled Repeater (NCR) has attracted attention. The NCR and network devices can connect via a wireless air interface using fourth-generation (4G), fifth-generation (5G), or sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication to receive configuration and control information from the network.

[0004] However, in the relevant air interface and interface technologies, there are currently no processes and methods for NCR node authentication, authorization, configuration management, etc. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned problems in related technologies, embodiments of this application provide a management method, apparatus, and storage medium for a Network Control Relay (NCR).

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a method for managing a Network Control Relay (NCR), including:

[0007] The system receives NCR configuration information sent by a network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0008] Based on the NCR configuration information, radio frequency forwarding is performed as an NCR.

[0009] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0010] The terminal receives a broadcast message sent by the network device, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR;

[0011] Cell selection is performed based on the broadcast message to determine which cell to camp on and access in which NCR is supported.

[0012] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0013] During or after accessing the NCR-enabled cell, a first indication message is sent to the network device, the first indication message indicating that the terminal type is NCR.

[0014] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0015] The system receives a second indication message sent by the network device. The second indication message is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication message is generated based on second authorization information, which is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity.

[0016] Based on the second instruction information, release the NCR's radio resource control connection.

[0017] Optionally, the NCR configuration information sent by the receiving network device includes:

[0018] The network device receives an NCR (Dedicated Radio Resource Control) message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0019] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0020] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0021] bandwidth;

[0022] power;

[0023] direction.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this application also provide a method for managing a Network Control Relay (NCR), comprising:

[0025] Receive first authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR;

[0026] If the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized, NCR configuration information is sent to the terminal.

[0027] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0028] A broadcast message is sent to the terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR.

[0029] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0030] Receive first indication information sent by the terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0031] Based on the first indication information, a third indication information is sent to the core network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0032] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0033] Receive second authorization information sent by the core network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity;

[0034] Based on the second authorization information, a second instruction information is sent to the terminal, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

[0035] Optionally, if the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover for the terminal, the method further includes:

[0036] Send a handover request message to the target network device, the handover request message containing:

[0037] The fourth indication information indicates that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0038] And / or,

[0039] The NCR configuration information.

[0040] Optionally, sending NCR configuration information to the terminal includes:

[0041] The terminal is sent an NCR dedicated radio resource control message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0042] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0043] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0044] bandwidth;

[0045] power;

[0046] direction.

[0047] Thirdly, embodiments of this application also provide a method for managing a Network Control Relay (NCR), comprising:

[0048] Receive third indication information sent by the network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the terminal type is NCR;

[0049] Based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and the operation, maintenance, and management configuration information, it is determined whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and a first authorization information is sent to the network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal's NCR identity.

[0050] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0051] Send a second authorization message to the network device, the second authorization message being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

[0052] Optionally, sending the first authorization information to the network device includes:

[0053] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the first authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0054] Optionally, sending the second authorization information to the network device includes:

[0055] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the second authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0056] Optionally, determining whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR includes:

[0057] If the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied; or,

[0058] If the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or operation and maintenance management configuration information, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied.

[0059] Fourthly, embodiments of this application also provide a network control relay (NCR) device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor;

[0060] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and executing a management method for any of the Network Control Relays (NCRs) described in the first aspect.

[0061] Fifthly, embodiments of this application also provide a network device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor;

[0062] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and executing any of the network control relay (NCR) management methods described in the second aspect.

[0063] Sixthly, embodiments of this application also provide a core network device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor;

[0064] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and executing any of the network control relay (NCR) management methods described in the third aspect.

[0065] Seventhly, embodiments of this application also provide a management device for a Network Control Relay (NCR), comprising:

[0066] The first receiving unit is configured to receive NCR configuration information sent by the network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on the first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0067] The service unit is used to perform radio frequency forwarding as an NCR based on the NCR configuration information.

[0068] Eighthly, embodiments of this application also provide a management device for a Network Control Relay (NCR), comprising:

[0069] The fourth receiving unit is used to receive the first authorization information sent by the core network equipment, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR;

[0070] The second sending unit is used to send NCR configuration information to the terminal when the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized.

[0071] Ninthly, embodiments of this application also provide a management device for a Network Control Relay (NCR), comprising:

[0072] The seventh receiving unit is used to receive third indication information sent by the network device, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0073] The determining unit is configured to determine whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and operation and maintenance management configuration information, and to send first authorization information to the network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal's NCR identity.

[0074] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a processor-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing the processor to perform a management method for any of the network control relays (NCRs) described in the first, second, or third aspects.

[0075] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing a computer to perform a management method for a network control relay (NCR) as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0076] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a communication device readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing the communication device to perform a management method for any of the network control relays (NCRs) described in the first, second, or third aspects.

[0077] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a chip product readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing the chip product to perform a management method for any of the network control relays (NCRs) described in the first, second, or third aspects.

[0078] The network control relay (NCR) management method, apparatus, and storage medium provided in this application embodiment allow the NCR to obtain NCR configuration information generated by the network device based on the first authorization information of the core network device authorizing the terminal NCR identity, and to perform radio frequency forwarding based on the NCR configuration information, thus clarifying the authorization and configuration process of the NCR. Attached Figure Description

[0079] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or related technologies of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0080] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of NCR deployment scenarios provided by related technologies;

[0081] Figure 2 This is one of the flowcharts illustrating the management method of the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0082] Figure 3 This is a second flowchart illustrating the management method of the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment;

[0083] Figure 4 This is the third flowchart illustrating the management method of the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment;

[0084] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the network control relay (NCR) device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0085] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the network device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0086] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the core network equipment provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0087] Figure 8 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the management device for the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0088] Figure 9 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the management device for the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment;

[0089] Figure 10 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the management device for the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0090] To better describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, relevant knowledge is introduced below.

[0091] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating NCR deployment scenarios provided by related technologies, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the NCR is deployed at the edge of the base station coverage area, serving as a wireless signal forwarder between the terminal and the base station. The NCR has the functions of a regular terminal, enabling connection between the NCR and the network. Furthermore, compared to ordinary repeaters, the NCR can support communication between repeaters and network devices from different manufacturers.

[0092] Figure 1 In the diagram, dashed lines represent control links between the NCR and the base station, and between the base station and core network equipment. These links carry functions such as connection, authorization, configuration, and management for the NCR when accessing the network as a terminal. Solid lines represent service links between the NCR and the base station, carrying signaling and services for all terminals accessing the system through the NCR.

[0093] In existing networks, the configuration and activation of ordinary relays (NCRs) are all based on predetermined configurations for radio frequency forwarding, and the network cannot flexibly manage the configuration of NCRs. NCRs, on the other hand, can access the network as ordinary terminals, and the network can be aware of their existence and control and configure them. However, there is currently no clear implementation solution for how to achieve NCR access, authentication, authorization, and configuration.

[0094] To address the aforementioned problems in related technologies, embodiments of this application provide a management method, apparatus, and storage medium for a Network Control Relay (NCR).

[0095] In the embodiments of this application, the term "and / or" describes the relationship between associated objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following associated objects have an "or" relationship.

[0096] In the embodiments of this application, the term "multiple" refers to two or more, and other quantifiers are similar.

[0097] The technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to various systems, especially 5G systems. For example, applicable systems include Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD), LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD), Long Term Evolution Advanced (LTE-A), Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), and 5G New Radio (NR). All of these systems include terminal equipment and network equipment. The system may also include a core network component, such as the Evolved Packet System (EPS) or the 5G system (5GS).

[0098] The terminal devices involved in the embodiments of this application can be devices that provide voice and / or data connectivity to users, handheld devices with wireless connectivity, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. The names of the terminal devices may differ in different systems; for example, in a 5G system, a terminal device can be called User Equipment (UE). Wireless terminal devices can communicate with one or more core networks (CNs) via a Radio Access Network (RAN). Wireless terminal devices can be mobile terminal devices, such as mobile phones (or "cellular" phones) and computers with mobile terminal devices, for example, portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices that exchange voice and / or data with the RAN. Examples include Personal Communication Service (PCS) phones, cordless phones, Session Initiated Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Wireless terminal equipment can also be referred to as a system, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, access point, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, user agent, or user device, but this application embodiment does not limit the terminology.

[0099] The network device involved in this application embodiment can be a base station, which may include multiple cells providing services to terminals. Depending on the specific application, a base station may also be called an access point, or a device in an access network that communicates with a wireless terminal device through one or more sectors on the air interface, or other names. The network device can be used to exchange received air frames with Internet Protocol (IP) packets, acting as a router between the wireless terminal device and the rest of the access network, where the rest of the access network may include an Internet Protocol (IP) communication network. The network device can also coordinate the attribute management of the air interface. For example, the network equipment involved in the embodiments of this application can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a NodeB in a Wide-band Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) system, an evolved Node B (eNB or e-NodeB) in a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, a 5G base station (gNB) in a Next Generation System, a Home evolved Node B (HeNB), a relay node, a Femto, a Pico, etc., and is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In some network structures, the network equipment may include centralized unit (CU) nodes and distributed unit (DU) nodes, and the centralized unit and distributed unit may also be geographically separated.

[0100] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0101] The control link between the NCR and network devices can be carried by the 4G / 5G / 6G wireless air interface, meaning the NCR can access the network as a regular terminal and perform related registration and authentication processes. During this process, network devices or core network devices can identify the terminal's NCR identity and authorize and configure the NCR.

[0102] Figure 2 This is one of the flowcharts illustrating the management method of the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the executing entity of this method can be a relay device, such as an NCR device, and the method includes at least the following steps:

[0103] Step 201: Receive NCR configuration information sent by the network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on the first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0104] Specifically, the NCR receives NCR configuration information sent by the network device. This NCR configuration information is generated based on the first authorization information, which indicates whether the core network device authorizes the terminal's NCR identity. The NCR configuration information contains the relevant configuration of the NCR service link.

[0105] NCR configuration information can include the initial NCR configuration or the updated NCR configuration.

[0106] If the NCR receives NCR configuration information from the network device, it indicates that the NCR has been authorized by the core network device. If the NCR does not receive NCR configuration information from the network device, it indicates that the NCR has not been authorized by the core network device.

[0107] Step 202: Based on the NCR configuration information, perform radio frequency forwarding as an NCR.

[0108] Specifically, the NCR performs radio frequency forwarding based on the NCR configuration information sent by the network device, acting as the NCR.

[0109] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment obtains NCR configuration information generated by the network device based on the first authorization information of the core network device authorizing the terminal NCR identity, and performs radio frequency forwarding based on the NCR configuration information, thus clarifying the authorization and configuration process of the NCR.

[0110] Optionally, the NCR configuration information sent by the receiving network device includes:

[0111] The network device receives an NCR (Dedicated Radio Resource Control) message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0112] Specifically, the NCR configuration information sent by the network device can be carried through a dedicated NCR RRC message.

[0113] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0114] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0115] bandwidth;

[0116] power;

[0117] direction.

[0118] Specifically, the NCR configuration information received by the NCR from the network device may include at least one of the following: transmit / receive frequency, bandwidth, power, and direction.

[0119] The NCR performs radio frequency forwarding according to the relevant configuration.

[0120] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0121] The terminal receives a broadcast message sent by the network device, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR;

[0122] Cell selection is performed based on the broadcast message to determine which cell to camp on and access in which NCR is supported.

[0123] Specifically, before receiving NCR configuration information sent by the network device, NCR needs to access the network as a terminal and perform cell selection as a terminal.

[0124] The Network Controller (NCR) receives broadcast messages from network devices. These broadcast messages indicate that the network device's identity supports the NCR. Broadcast messages can be system messages sent by the network device via broadcast, such as System Information Block (SIB) messages.

[0125] After NCR is powered on, it reads whether the network device supports NCR based on the broadcast message it receives from the network device, and selects a cell that supports NCR for cell camping and access.

[0126] The Network Control Relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment determines whether the network device supports NCR from the system messages broadcast by the network device after the NCR accesses the network as a terminal, and selects a cell that supports NCR for camping and access, thus clarifying the cell selection process of NCR.

[0127] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0128] During or after accessing the NCR-enabled cell, a first indication message is sent to the network device, the first indication message indicating that the terminal type is NCR.

[0129] Specifically, during or after accessing a cell that supports NCR, NCR sends a first indication message to the network device, indicating that the terminal type is NCR, so that NCR configuration information and configuration update information can be received subsequently.

[0130] The first instruction information can be carried through Radio Resource Control (RRC) messages, Media Access Control Control Element (MAC CE) or physical layer control signaling.

[0131] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment indicates the NCR's NCR identity to the network device during or after the NCR selects a cell that supports NCR as a terminal for access, thus clarifying the NCR capability indication process.

[0132] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0133] The system receives a second indication message sent by the network device. The second indication message is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication message is generated based on second authorization information, which is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity.

[0134] Based on the second instruction information, release the NCR's radio resource control connection.

[0135] Specifically, after the NCR obtains authorization from the core network device and receives the NCR configuration information sent by the network device, it may also receive a second instruction message sent by the network device. The second instruction message is used to instruct the core network device to stop authorizing the NCR, and the NCR can no longer perform radio frequency forwarding as an NCR, but can only provide services as a regular terminal.

[0136] The second instruction information is generated based on the second authorization information, which is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal to provide services as an NCR. That is, if the authorization information of the core network device changes from authorized to unauthorized, the network device will notify the NCR to stop the service through the second instruction information.

[0137] Based on the received second indication information, the NCR releases the NCR's RRC connection.

[0138] NCR authorization changes can occur during NCR switching, context modification, and other processes.

[0139] Regarding the starting and stopping of NCR, in addition to starting and stopping based on the signaling of network devices or core network devices, the starting and stopping of NCR can also be achieved according to the needs of NCR itself or through manual control.

[0140] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment involves the NCR receiving a second indication message sent by a network device, clarifying based on the second indication message that the authorization information of the core network device has been changed from authorized to unauthorized, releasing the NCR's RRC connection, and stopping the service provided as the NCR, thus further clarifying the authorization change process of the NCR.

[0141] Figure 3 This is the second flowchart illustrating the management method of the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment. Figure 3 As shown, the execution subject of this method is a network device, such as a base station, and the method includes at least the following steps:

[0142] Step 301: Receive the first authorization information sent by the core network device. The first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0143] Specifically, the network device receives the first authorization information sent by the core network device. The first authorization information is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0144] Step 302: If the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized, send NCR configuration information to the terminal.

[0145] Specifically, if the first authorization information indicates the identity of the core network device authorizing the terminal NCR, then the network device sends NCR configuration information to the corresponding authorized terminal or NCR.

[0146] If the first authorization information indicates that the core network device has not authorized the identity of the terminal NCR, the network device will not send NCR configuration information to the NCR.

[0147] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment involves the network device receiving the first authorization information from the core network device. After determining that the core network device authorizes the terminal to perform radio frequency forwarding services as an NCR, the network device sends NCR configuration information to the NCR, thus clarifying the NCR authorization process.

[0148] Optionally, sending NCR configuration information to the terminal includes:

[0149] The terminal is sent an NCR dedicated radio resource control message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0150] Specifically, the NCR configuration information sent by the network device to the NCR can be carried through a dedicated NCR RRC message.

[0151] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0152] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0153] bandwidth;

[0154] power;

[0155] direction.

[0156] Specifically, the NCR configuration information sent by the network device to the NCR may include at least one of the following: transmit / receive frequency, bandwidth, power, and direction. The NCR then performs radio frequency forwarding based on the relevant configuration.

[0157] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0158] A broadcast message is sent to the terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR.

[0159] Specifically, before receiving the first authorization information from the core network device, the network device can broadcast in the system information to indicate whether NCR device access is supported. For example, it can indicate whether NCR is supported in the SIB message.

[0160] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0161] Receive first indication information sent by the terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0162] Based on the first indication information, a third indication information is sent to the core network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0163] Specifically, the network device that supports NCR receives the first indication information sent by the NCR device, in which the type of the terminal is indicated as NCR.

[0164] Before receiving the first authorization information sent by the core network device, the network device may also send a third indication information to the core network device based on the first indication information. The third indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0165] Optionally, the third indication information can be carried in the Initial UE Message. The network device indicates to the core network device that the terminal is an NCR in the Initial UE Message.

[0166] At this point, identity authentication is completed between network devices, NCR, and core network devices.

[0167] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment involves a network device receiving first indication information sent by a terminal indicating that the terminal type is NCR, and then indicating to the core network device that the terminal type is NCR through third indication information, thus clarifying the NCR's identity authentication process.

[0168] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0169] Receive second authorization information sent by the core network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity;

[0170] Based on the second authorization information, a second instruction information is sent to the terminal, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

[0171] Specifically, after receiving the first authorization information from the core network device, the network device may also receive a second authorization information from the core network device. This second authorization information instructs the core network device to cease authorizing the NCR (Network Controller). The NCR can no longer perform radio frequency forwarding as an NCR and can only provide services as a regular terminal. This indicates that the core network device's authorization information has changed from authorized to unauthorized.

[0172] Based on the second authorization information, the network device sends a second instruction to the NCR to stop the service link of the NCR.

[0173] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment clarifies that the network device changes the NCR's authorization information from authorized to unauthorized based on the second authorization information sent by the core network device, and stops the service of the NCR's service link, further clarifying the NCR authorization change process.

[0174] Optionally, if the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover for the terminal, the method further includes:

[0175] Send a handover request message to the target network device, the handover request message containing:

[0176] The fourth indication information indicates that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0177] And / or,

[0178] The NCR configuration information.

[0179] Specifically, when a network device decides to initiate an Xn handover of a terminal or NCR, the network device (source network device) sends a handover request message to the target network device, which includes the following:

[0180] The fourth indication information is used to indicate that the terminal type is NCR;

[0181] And / or,

[0182] NCR configuration information.

[0183] The above information indicates that the terminal being switched is not a regular terminal, but an NCR (Network Control Response), thus assisting the target network device in deciding whether to accept the switch.

[0184] For NCRs that support mobility, network devices can be configured to perform neighbor cell measurements. Based on the NCR measurement results, the device can decide whether to initiate an Xn handover of the NCR, switching the NCR to the next cell or the next network device that supports the NCR.

[0185] Furthermore, if the target network device authorizes the source network device's handover request message, it will allocate or update the relevant NCR configuration and send it to the NCR. In a handover scenario, the target network device can send configuration information to the NCR via a handover command, or it can send configuration information to the NCR after the handover is complete. After the handover is complete, the NCR performs radio frequency forwarding based on the configuration information sent by the target network device.

[0186] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment indicates that the terminal is an NCR to the target network device when the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover of the NCR, thus clarifying the mobility management process of the NCR.

[0187] Figure 4 This is the third flowchart illustrating the management method of the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment. Figure 4 As shown, the execution entity of this method is a core network device, such as the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), and the method includes at least the following steps:

[0188] Step 401: Receive third indication information sent by the network device, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0189] Specifically, the core network device receives a third indication message sent by the network device, which indicates that the type of the currently accessing terminal is NCR.

[0190] Step 402: Based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and the operation, maintenance, and management configuration information, determine whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and send first authorization information to the network device. The first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal as an NCR.

[0191] Specifically, the core network equipment determines the identity of the currently accessing terminal as NCR based on one or more of the third instruction information sent by the network equipment, the terminal's subscription information, and the Operation Administration and Maintenance (OAM) configuration information, and decides whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and sends the first authorization information to the network equipment.

[0192] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment involves the core network device receiving a third indication message from the network device indicating that the currently accessed terminal is an NCR. Based on one or more of the third indication message, the terminal's subscription information, and OAM configuration information, the core network device determines that the terminal is an NCR and decides whether to authorize it, thus clarifying the NCR authorization process.

[0193] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0194] Send a second authorization message to the network device, the second authorization message being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

[0195] Specifically, the core network equipment sends a second authorization message to the network equipment to indicate the termination of the NCR's identity, so that the network equipment can notify the NCR to stop the service.

[0196] Core network equipment can change the authorization information of NCR from authorized to unauthorized.

[0197] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment clarifies the NCR authorization change process by having the core network device send second authorization information to the network device to indicate the termination of the authorized terminal NCR identity.

[0198] Optionally, sending the first authorization information to the network device includes:

[0199] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the first authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0200] Specifically, during the process of a terminal performing an Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, authorization from the core network device is required. The core network device sends a first authorization message to the network device, indicating whether authorization is granted. If authorization is granted, the network device sends NCR configuration information to the NCR, and the NCR performs radio frequency forwarding based on the relevant configuration. If authorization is not granted, the network device will not perform any relevant configuration for the NCR.

[0201] Optionally, sending the second authorization information to the network device includes:

[0202] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the second authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0203] Specifically, during the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as NCR, the authorization of the core network device may change. When the authorization information changes from authorized to unauthorized, the core network device sends a second authorization information to the network device, triggering the release of the RRC connection of the NCR air interface.

[0204] During the handover process, the core network device can provide the target network device with NCR authorization information. If authorized, the target network device can complete the NCR-related configuration or configuration update based on the fourth indication information carried in the handover request message to indicate that the terminal type is NCR, and / or the NCR configuration information. If not authorized, the target network device can refuse the handover or notify the NCR to stop the radio frequency forwarding service.

[0205] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment, during the NCR Xn handover or context modification process, the core network device authorizes or modifies the NCR by sending first authorization information or second authorization information to the network device, thus clarifying the NCR authorization and authorization modification process.

[0206] Optionally, determining whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR includes:

[0207] If the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied; or,

[0208] If the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or operation and maintenance management configuration information, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied.

[0209] Specifically, after receiving the third indication information indicating that the terminal type is NCR, the core network equipment decides whether to authorize based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and OAM configuration information, and sends the relevant authorization information to the network equipment.

[0210] In scenarios where authorization is not granted, the following can be included:

[0211] ① The third instruction information sent by the network device does not match the terminal's subscription information, so the terminal is refused access to the network as an NCR user.

[0212] ② The contract information or OAM configuration information sets restrictions on the network devices accessed by NCR. The network devices currently accessed do not meet the restrictions, so the terminal is refused access to the network as an NCR.

[0213] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application embodiment, when the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, or when the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or the operation and maintenance management configuration information, refuses the terminal to access the network as an NCR, thus clarifying the scheme of not authorizing NCR.

[0214] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application are further described below through several specific examples.

[0215] Example 1: NCR startup process (obtaining authorization)

[0216] Step a: After NCR is powered on, the UE accesses the network. Based on the indication information regarding whether NCR is supported carried in the system information broadcast by the network device, the UE selects to camp and access a cell that supports NCR.

[0217] Step b: The NCR of the UE identity indicates that the terminal type is NCR in the RRC connection establishment message.

[0218] Step c: The network device sends an initial UE message to the core network device AMF, which includes a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message carried in the RRC establishment completion message, which carries indication information indicating that the terminal is an NCR.

[0219] Step d: Based on the indication information indicating that the terminal is an NCR, the terminal's subscription information, and the OAM configuration information, the core network device decides to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR and sends the authorization information (authorization) to the network device.

[0220] Step e: The network device sends NCR configuration information to the NCR based on the authorization information (authorization).

[0221] Step f: NCR starts radio frequency forwarding service according to relevant configuration.

[0222] Example 2: NCR startup process (unauthorized)

[0223] Step a: After NCR is powered on, the UE accesses the network. Based on the indication information regarding whether NCR is supported carried in the system information broadcast by the network device, the UE selects to camp and access a cell that supports NCR.

[0224] Step b: The NCR of the UE identity indicates that the terminal type is NCR in the RRC connection establishment message.

[0225] Step c: The network device sends an initial UE message to the core network device AMF, which includes a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message carried in the RRC establishment completion message, which carries indication information indicating that the terminal is an NCR.

[0226] Step d: Based on the indication information indicating that the terminal is an NCR, the terminal's subscription information, and the OAM configuration information, the core network device decides to refuse to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR and sends the authorization information (non-authorization) to the network device.

[0227] Scenarios where authorization is not granted may include, but are not limited to:

[0228] ① The instruction information sent by the network device does not match the terminal's subscription information, and the terminal is refused access to the network as an NCR user.

[0229] ② The contract information or OAM configuration information sets restrictions on the network devices accessed by NCR. The network devices currently accessed do not meet the restrictions, so the terminal is refused access to the network as an NCR.

[0230] Step e: The network device receives the authorization information (no authorization) and does not perform any NCR configuration. The network device or core network device can trigger the release of the RRC connection on the NCR air interface.

[0231] Example 3: Mobility Management in NCR that Supports Mobility

[0232] The NCR is currently accessing cell 1 of base station A. Base station A obtains authorization for the NCR from the core network equipment and sends relevant configurations to the NCR. The NCR is working normally in cell 1 of base station A.

[0233] Step a: For NCRs that support mobility, base station A configures neighbor cell measurement for them. Due to the movement of the NCR or base station, as well as signal fluctuations, interference, etc., the NCR determines through neighbor cell measurement that the signal quality of neighbor cell 2 of base station B is better, and sends a measurement report to base station A.

[0234] Step b: Base station A (source base station) sends a handover request message to base station B (target base station), which carries: indication information indicating that the terminal type is NCR, and / or, the relevant configuration of NCR at base station A.

[0235] Step c: During the handover process, the core network equipment can provide base station B with NCR authorization information. If authorized, base station B will complete the relevant NCR configuration or configuration update; if not authorized, base station B will refuse the handover or notify NCR to stop radio frequency forwarding.

[0236] Example 4: Starting and stopping the NCR service

[0237] To flexibly control the NCR, while considering factors such as power control, it is necessary to flexibly start and stop the NCR, including but not limited to:

[0238] ① Network control, such as stopping or starting NCR services based on network energy-saving requirements.

[0239] During NCR operation, base stations or core network equipment can stop NCR services through signaling, such as through UE context release messages, RRC connection release messages, etc.; during the NCR service stoppage process, dedicated signaling or paging messages can also be provided to stop NCR startup or resume services.

[0240] ② NCR Request. Due to abnormal NCR operating status or other reasons, the NCR itself can request to stop service, and even release control plane RRC connection and user plane service. After stopping NCR service, the NCR can be in standby state (e.g., idle state) or powered off state. The NCR can also request to stop NCR service as a UE.

[0241] ③ Manual control. Supports manual start / stop of the NCR service, such as powering on / off, restarting, etc. Stopping the service can be done through the registration process; starting the service can be done as shown in Example 1.

[0242] Example 5: NCR Setup / Activation Process

[0243] Step a: The network device indicates in the system information broadcast whether it supports NCR access.

[0244] Step b: After NCR is powered on, it searches for cells as a UE, selects a cell that supports NCR for camping and access, and sends an indication message to the network device to indicate that the terminal type is NCR.

[0245] Step c: The network device currently connected to the NCR indicates to the core network device that the UE is an NCR in the initial UE message.

[0246] Step d: The core network device determines whether to authorize NCR access based on the instruction information sent by the network device, combined with one or more of the UE's subscription information, OAM configuration information, etc., and sends authorization information to the network device.

[0247] Step e: The network device sends relevant configurations to the authorized NCR, including information such as transmit and receive frequencies, bandwidth, power, and direction.

[0248] Step f: NCR starts radio frequency forwarding service based on the configuration information issued by the network device.

[0249] Example 6: NCR Authorization / Configuration Update

[0250] ① Authorization Update: During the process of NCR Xn handover or context modification, the core network device can modify the NCR authorization information. If the authorization information changes from authorized to unauthorized, the service of the NCR service link will be stopped.

[0251] ② Configuration update: During NCR operation, network devices can update NCR-related configurations via signaling.

[0252] The network control relay (NCR) management method provided in this application clarifies the processes of NCR capability indication, identity authentication and authorization, authorization change, configuration and configuration update, mobility management and start / stop control, etc. It flexibly supports the configuration and management of intelligent NCR, can effectively realize the interconnection and interoperability between NCRs and base stations from different manufacturers, and is easier to deploy in the entire communication network.

[0253] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the network control relay (NCR) device provided in the embodiments of this application, as shown below. Figure 5 As shown, the NCR device includes a memory 501, a transceiver 502, and a processor 503, wherein:

[0254] The memory 501 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 502 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor 503.

[0255] Specifically, transceiver 502 is used to receive and send data under the control of processor 503.

[0256] Among them, Figure 5In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 503 and memory represented by memory 501 together. The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides an interface. Transceiver 502 can be multiple elements, including transmitters and receivers, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, etc. For different user equipment, the user interface 504 can also be an interface capable of connecting external or internal devices, including but not limited to keypads, displays, speakers, microphones, joysticks, etc.

[0257] Processor 503 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, while memory 501 can store the data used by processor 503 when performing operations.

[0258] Optionally, the processor 503 may be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and the processor may also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0259] The processor executes any of the methods described in the embodiments of this application according to the obtained executable instructions by calling a computer program stored in memory. The processor and memory may also be physically separated.

[0260] Processor 503 is configured to read the computer program in the memory 501 and perform the following operations:

[0261] The system receives NCR configuration information sent by a network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0262] Based on the NCR configuration information, radio frequency forwarding is performed using the NCR identity.

[0263] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0264] The terminal receives a broadcast message sent by the network device, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR;

[0265] Cell selection is performed based on the broadcast message to determine which cell to camp on and access in which NCR is supported.

[0266] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0267] During or after accessing the NCR-enabled cell, a first indication message is sent to the network device, the first indication message indicating that the terminal type is NCR.

[0268] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0269] The system receives a second indication message sent by the network device. The second indication message is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication message is generated based on second authorization information, which is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity.

[0270] Based on the second instruction information, release the NCR's radio resource control connection.

[0271] Optionally, the NCR configuration information sent by the receiving network device includes:

[0272] The network device receives an NCR (Dedicated Radio Resource Control) message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0273] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0274] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0275] bandwidth;

[0276] power;

[0277] direction.

[0278] It should be noted that the NCR device provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the method embodiment with the NCR device as the execution subject, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0279] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the network device provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 6As shown, the network device includes a memory 601, a transceiver 602, and a processor 603, wherein:

[0280] The memory 601 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 602 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor 603.

[0281] Specifically, transceiver 602 is used to receive and send data under the control of processor 603.

[0282] Among them, Figure 6 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits together, represented by one or more processors (processor 603) and memory (memory 601). The bus architecture can also link together various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 602 can be multiple elements, including transmitters and receivers, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over transmission media, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, etc. The processor 603 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 601 can store data used by the processor 603 during operation.

[0283] The processor 603 can be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0284] Processor 603 is configured to read the computer program in the memory 601 and perform the following operations:

[0285] Receive first authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR;

[0286] If the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized, NCR configuration information is sent to the terminal.

[0287] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0288] A broadcast message is sent to the terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR.

[0289] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0290] Receive first indication information sent by the terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0291] Based on the first indication information, a third indication information is sent to the core network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0292] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0293] Receive second authorization information sent by the core network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity;

[0294] Based on the second authorization information, a second instruction information is sent to the terminal, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

[0295] Optionally, if the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover of the terminal, the processor reads the computer program in the memory and performs the following operations:

[0296] Send a handover request message to the target network device, the handover request message containing:

[0297] The fourth indication information indicates that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0298] And / or,

[0299] The NCR configuration information.

[0300] Optionally, sending NCR configuration information to the terminal includes:

[0301] The terminal is sent an NCR dedicated radio resource control message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0302] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0303] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0304] bandwidth;

[0305] power;

[0306] direction.

[0307] It should be noted that the network device provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the method embodiment with the network device as the execution subject, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0308] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the core network device provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 7 As shown, the core network device includes a memory 701, a transceiver 702, and a processor 703.

[0309] The memory 701 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 702 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor 703.

[0310] Specifically, transceiver 702 is used to receive and send data under the control of processor 703.

[0311] Among them, Figure 7 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 703 and memory represented by memory 701 together. The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides the interface.

[0312] The transceiver 702 may consist of multiple components, including a transmitter and a receiver, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, and other transmission media. The processor 703 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 701 can store data used by the processor 703 during operation.

[0313] The processor 703 can be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0314] Processor 703 is used to read the computer program in memory 701 and perform the following operations:

[0315] Receive third indication information sent by the network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the terminal type is NCR;

[0316] Based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and the operation, maintenance, and management configuration information, it is determined whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and a first authorization information is sent to the network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal's NCR identity.

[0317] Optionally, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and then performs the following operations:

[0318] Send a second authorization message to the network device, the second authorization message being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

[0319] Optionally, sending the first authorization information to the network device includes:

[0320] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the first authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0321] Optionally, sending the second authorization information to the network device includes:

[0322] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the second authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0323] Optionally, determining whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR includes:

[0324] If the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied; or,

[0325] If the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or operation and maintenance management configuration information, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied.

[0326] It should be noted that the core network equipment provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the method embodiment with the core network equipment as the execution subject, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0327] Figure 8 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the management device for the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in the embodiments of this application, such as... Figure 8 As shown, the device includes at least:

[0328] The first receiving unit 801 is used to receive NCR configuration information sent by the network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on the first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR.

[0329] Service unit 802 is used to perform radio frequency forwarding as an NCR based on the NCR configuration information.

[0330] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0331] The second receiving unit is configured to receive a broadcast message sent by the network device as a terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR;

[0332] The selection unit is used to select a cell based on the broadcast message and determine whether to camp and access the cell that supports NCR.

[0333] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0334] The first sending unit is configured to send first indication information to the network device during or after accessing the NCR-supporting cell, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0335] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0336] The third receiving unit is configured to receive second indication information sent by the network device. The second indication information is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication information is generated based on second authorization information. The second authorization information is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity.

[0337] A release unit is used to release the radio resource control connection of the NCR based on the second indication information.

[0338] Optionally, the first receiving unit is further configured to:

[0339] The network device receives an NCR (Dedicated Radio Resource Control) message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0340] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0341] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0342] bandwidth;

[0343] power;

[0344] direction.

[0345] Figure 9 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the management device for the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment, as shown below. Figure 9 As shown, the device includes at least:

[0346] The fourth receiving unit 901 is used to receive the first authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR;

[0347] The second sending unit 902 is used to send NCR configuration information to the terminal when the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized.

[0348] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0349] The third sending unit is used to send a broadcast message to the terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR.

[0350] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0351] The fifth receiving unit is configured to receive first indication information sent by the terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0352] The fourth sending unit is used to send third indication information to the core network device based on the first indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

[0353] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0354] The sixth receiving unit is configured to receive the second authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the second authorization information is used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity;

[0355] The fifth sending unit is used to send second instruction information to the terminal based on the second authorization information, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

[0356] Optionally, if the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover for the terminal, the apparatus further includes:

[0357] The sixth sending unit is used to send a handover request message to the target network device, the handover request message containing:

[0358] The fourth indication information indicates that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0359] And / or,

[0360] The NCR configuration information.

[0361] Optionally, the second transmitting unit is further configured to:

[0362] The terminal is sent an NCR dedicated radio resource control message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

[0363] Optionally, the NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following:

[0364] Transmit and receive frequencies;

[0365] bandwidth;

[0366] power;

[0367] direction.

[0368] Figure 10 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the management device for the Network Control Relay (NCR) provided in this application embodiment, as shown below. Figure 10 As shown, the device includes at least:

[0369] The seventh receiving unit 1001 is used to receive third indication information sent by the network device, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR;

[0370] The determining unit 1002 is used to determine whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and operation and maintenance management configuration information, and to send first authorization information to the network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal's NCR identity.

[0371] Optionally, the device further includes:

[0372] The seventh sending unit is used to send second authorization information to the network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

[0373] Optionally, the determining unit is further configured to:

[0374] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the first authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0375] Optionally, the seventh transmitting unit is further configured to:

[0376] During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the second authorization information is sent to the network device.

[0377] Optionally, the determining unit is further configured to:

[0378] If the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied; or,

[0379] If the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or operation and maintenance management configuration information, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied.

[0380] The methods and apparatuses provided in the various embodiments of this application are based on the same concept. Since the methods and apparatuses solve problems in similar ways, the implementations of the apparatuses and methods can refer to each other, and repeated details will not be repeated.

[0381] It should be noted that the division of units in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used. Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated units described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional units.

[0382] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a processor-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to related technologies, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0383] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the above method embodiment and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0384] On the other hand, embodiments of this application also provide a processor-readable storage medium storing a computer program for causing the processor to execute the network control relay (NCR) management method provided in the above embodiments, such as including:

[0385] The system receives NCR configuration information sent by a network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the terminal's NCR identity. Based on the NCR configuration information, the system performs radio frequency forwarding as the NCR.

[0386] or,

[0387] Receive first authorization information sent by the core network device, the first authorization information being used to indicate whether to authorize the NCR identity of the terminal; if the first authorization information indicates that the NCR identity of the terminal is authorized, send NCR configuration information to the terminal;

[0388] or,

[0389] The system receives a third indication message sent by a network device, the third indication message indicating that the terminal type is NCR; based on one or more of the third indication message, the terminal's subscription information, and operation, maintenance, and management configuration information, it determines whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and sends a first authorization message to the network device, the first authorization message indicating whether to authorize the terminal as an NCR.

[0390] The processor-readable storage medium can be any available medium or data storage device that the processor can access, including but not limited to magnetic memory (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disk (MO)), optical memory (e.g., CD, DVD, BD, HVD), and semiconductor memory (e.g., ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, non-volatile memory (NAND FLASH), solid-state drive (SSD)).

[0391] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage and optical storage) containing computer-usable program code.

[0392] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-executable instructions. These computer-executable instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0393] These processor-executable instructions may also be stored in a processor-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the processor-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0394] These processors can execute instructions that can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device, causing a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable device for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0395] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A management method for a Network Control Relay (NCR), characterized in that, include: The system receives NCR configuration information sent by a network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR. Based on the NCR configuration information, radio frequency forwarding is performed in the identity of the NCR. The system receives a second indication message sent by the network device. The second indication message is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication message is generated based on second authorization information, which is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity. Based on the second instruction information, release the NCR's radio resource control connection.

2. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The terminal receives a broadcast message sent by the network device, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR; Cell selection is performed based on the broadcast message to determine which cell to camp on and access in which NCR is supported.

3. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: During or after accessing the NCR-enabled cell, a first indication message is sent to the network device, the first indication message indicating that the terminal type is NCR.

4. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The NCR configuration information sent by the receiving network device includes: The network device receives an NCR (Dedicated Radio Resource Control) message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

5. The management method for a Network Control Relay (NCR) according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following: Transmit and receive frequencies; bandwidth; power; direction.

6. A management method for a Network Control Relay (NCR), characterized in that, include: Receive first authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR; If the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized, NCR configuration information is sent to the terminal; Receive second authorization information sent by the core network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity; Based on the second authorization information, a second instruction information is sent to the terminal, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

7. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: A broadcast message is sent to the terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR.

8. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive first indication information sent by the terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR; Based on the first indication information, a third indication information is sent to the core network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

9. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover for the terminal, the method further includes: Send a handover request message to the target network device, the handover request message containing: The fourth indication information indicates that the type of the terminal is NCR; And / or, The NCR configuration information.

10. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 6, characterized in that, Sending NCR configuration information to the terminal includes: The terminal is sent an NCR dedicated radio resource control message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

11. The management method for a Network Control Relay (NCR) according to any one of claims 6-10, characterized in that, The NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following: Transmit and receive frequencies; bandwidth; power; direction.

12. A management method for a Network Control Relay (NCR), characterized in that, include: Receive third indication information sent by the network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the terminal type is NCR; Based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and the operation, maintenance, and management configuration information, determine whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and send first authorization information to the network device. The first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal as an NCR. Send a second authorization message to the network device, the second authorization message being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

13. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 12, characterized in that, Sending the first authorization information to the network device includes: During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the first authorization information is sent to the network device.

14. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 12, characterized in that, Sending the second authorization information to the network device includes: During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the second authorization information is sent to the network device.

15. The management method for Network Control Relay (NCR) according to claim 12, characterized in that, The step of determining whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR includes: If the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR is denied; or, If the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or operation and maintenance management configuration information, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR will be denied.

16. A network control relay (NCR) device, comprising a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; characterized in that: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: The system receives NCR configuration information sent by a network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR. Based on the NCR configuration information, radio frequency forwarding is performed in the identity of the NCR. The system receives a second indication message sent by the network device. The second indication message is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication message is generated based on second authorization information, which is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity. Based on the second instruction information, release the NCR's radio resource control connection.

17. The network control relay (NCR) device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The processor reads the computer program from the memory and also performs the following operations: The terminal receives a broadcast message sent by the network device, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR; Cell selection is performed based on the broadcast message to determine which cell to camp on and access in which NCR is supported.

18. The network control relay (NCR) device according to claim 17, characterized in that, The processor reads the computer program from the memory and also performs the following operations: During or after accessing the NCR-enabled cell, a first indication message is sent to the network device, the first indication message indicating that the terminal type is NCR.

19. The network control relay (NCR) device according to claim 16, characterized in that, The NCR configuration information sent by the receiving network device includes: The network device receives an NCR (Dedicated Radio Resource Control) message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

20. The network control relay (NCR) device according to any one of claims 16-19, characterized in that, The NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following: Transmit and receive frequencies; bandwidth; power; direction.

21. A network device, comprising a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; characterized in that: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: Receive first authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR; If the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized, NCR configuration information is sent to the terminal; Receive second authorization information sent by the core network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity; Based on the second authorization information, a second instruction information is sent to the terminal, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

22. The network device according to claim 21, characterized in that, The processor reads the computer program from the memory and also performs the following operations: A broadcast message is sent to the terminal, the broadcast message being used to indicate whether the network device supports NCR.

23. The network device according to claim 22, characterized in that, The processor reads the computer program from the memory and also performs the following operations: Receive first indication information sent by the terminal, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR; Based on the first indication information, a third indication information is sent to the core network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR.

24. The network device according to claim 21, characterized in that, If the network device decides to initiate an Xn handover of the terminal, the processor reads the computer program from the memory and performs the following operations: Send a handover request message to the target network device, the handover request message containing: The fourth indication information indicates that the type of the terminal is NCR; And / or, The NCR configuration information.

25. The network device according to claim 21, characterized in that, Sending NCR configuration information to the terminal includes: The terminal is sent an NCR dedicated radio resource control message, which carries the NCR configuration information.

26. The network device according to any one of claims 21-25, characterized in that, The NCR configuration information includes at least one of the following: Transmit and receive frequencies; bandwidth; power; direction.

27. A core network device, comprising a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; characterized in that: A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: Receive third indication information sent by the network device, the third indication information being used to indicate that the terminal type is NCR; Based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and the operation, maintenance, and management configuration information, determine whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR, and send first authorization information to the network device. The first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal as an NCR. Send a second authorization message to the network device, the second authorization message being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

28. The core network equipment according to claim 27, characterized in that, Sending the first authorization information to the network device includes: During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the first authorization information is sent to the network device.

29. The core network equipment according to claim 27, characterized in that, Sending the second authorization information to the network device includes: During the process of the terminal performing Xn handover or context modification as an NCR, the second authorization information is sent to the network device.

30. The core network equipment according to claim 27, characterized in that, The step of determining whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR includes: If the third indication information and the terminal's subscription information do not match, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied; or, If the network device does not meet the restrictions of the terminal's subscription information or operation and maintenance management configuration information, it is determined that the terminal's access to the network as an NCR user will be denied.

31. A management device for a network control relay (NCR), characterized in that, include: The first receiving unit is configured to receive NCR configuration information sent by the network device. The NCR configuration information is generated based on the first authorization information, which is used to indicate whether the core network device authorizes the identity of the terminal NCR. The service unit is used to perform radio frequency forwarding as an NCR based on the NCR configuration information; The third receiving unit is configured to receive second indication information sent by the network device. The second indication information is used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR. The second indication information is generated based on second authorization information. The second authorization information is used to instruct the core network device to terminate the authorization of the terminal's NCR identity. A release unit is used to release the radio resource control connection of the NCR based on the second indication information.

32. A management device for a network control relay (NCR), characterized in that, include: The fourth receiving unit is used to receive the first authorization information sent by the core network equipment, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the identity of the terminal NCR; The second sending unit is used to send NCR configuration information to the terminal when the first authorization information indicates that the terminal's NCR identity is authorized; The sixth receiving unit is configured to receive the second authorization information sent by the core network device, wherein the second authorization information is used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity; The fifth sending unit is used to send second instruction information to the terminal based on the second authorization information, the second instruction information being used to instruct the terminal to stop providing services as an NCR.

33. A management device for a network control relay (NCR), characterized in that, include: The seventh receiving unit is used to receive third indication information sent by the network device, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the type of the terminal is NCR; The determining unit is configured to determine whether to authorize the terminal to access the network as an NCR based on one or more of the third indication information, the terminal's subscription information, and operation and maintenance management configuration information, and to send first authorization information to the network device, wherein the first authorization information is used to indicate whether to authorize the terminal's NCR identity; The seventh sending unit is used to send second authorization information to the network device, the second authorization information being used to indicate the termination of authorization of the terminal NCR's identity.

34. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program for causing a computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, or the method according to any one of claims 6 to 11, or the method according to any one of claims 12 to 15.

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