A communication method and apparatus

Abstract

This application provides a communication method and apparatus to ensure the continuity and reliability of broadcast television users receiving broadcast data through terminal equipment. The method includes: a first control plane function network element sending address information of a second user plane function network element to a first user plane function network element; the address information being used by the first user plane function network element to send data for a first service to the second user plane function network element; sending first information or second information to the second control plane function network element; the first information being used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element; the second information being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data for the first service to an access network element; the first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, and the second user plane function network element and the second control plane function network element are located in a second core network, which is different from the first core network.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In the broadcasting and television industry, broadcasting and television towers (often referred to as towers) are commonly used to provide broadcast services, such as live television. With the development of mobile communication technology, broadcasting and television users can receive broadcast data (often referred to as broadcast data) from these towers through terminal devices. However, due to the large coverage area of ​​the towers and the limited capabilities of the terminal devices (such as power consumption), it is difficult to guarantee the continuity and reliability of broadcast services. For example, when a terminal device moves to an area with weak tower signal coverage, it may fail to successfully receive broadcast data from the tower, resulting in data loss. Therefore, ensuring the continuity and reliability of broadcasting and television users receiving broadcast data through their terminal devices has become an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to ensure the continuity and reliability of broadcast data received by broadcast television users through terminal equipment.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a first control plane function network element or by a component of the first control plane function network element. The method includes: the first control plane function network element sending address information of a second user plane function network element to a first user plane function network element, the address information being used by the first user plane function network element to send data of a first service to the second user plane function network element; and sending first information to the second control plane function network element or sending second information to the second user plane function network element; wherein the first information is used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element, and the second information is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to an access network element, wherein the first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, and the second control plane function network element is located in a second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0005] In the above embodiments, the first control plane function network element sends the address information of the second user plane function network element located in the second core network to the first user plane function network element located in the first core network, and sends first information or second information to the second control plane function network element located in the second core network. This enables the data of the first service to be transmitted to the terminal device through both the first core network and the second core network, thereby improving the transmission reliability of the data of the first service and ensuring the continuity of the first service.

[0006] The second information is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the access network element. This means that the second user plane function network element can determine the sequence number used to send the data of the first service based on the second information, which enables the first core network and the second core network to reach a consensus on the understanding of the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the first information may include a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service or the sequence number corresponding to the first data; wherein the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

[0008] Furthermore, the first information may also include one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, or first cache indication information. The first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate a numbering rule, which is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service to the access network element; the first cache indication information can be used to indicate the caching of data of the first service.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the second information may include a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service or the sequence number corresponding to the first data; wherein the first data is the data of the first service first sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

[0010] Furthermore, the second information may also include one or more of the following: processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, or second cache indication information; wherein the processing rules are used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the access network element using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number, the second numbering rule is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element, and the second cache indication information is used to indicate the cache of the data of the first service.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the method may further include: a first control plane function network element receiving a first sequence number from a data provider and sending the first sequence number to a first user plane function network element.

[0012] In the above implementation, the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the data of the first service can be generated by itself or provided by the data provider, making the implementation flexible.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network of a 5th generation (5G) mobile communication system, or the core network of a new radio (NR) system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network; or, the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are multicast or broadcast (MB) control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

[0016] In one possible implementation, if the first control plane function element is located in the first core network, the first control plane function element can also receive address information from the second user plane function element. Alternatively, if the first control plane function element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, the first control plane function element can also receive address information from the second user plane function element.

[0017] In the above implementation, the first control plane functional network element can obtain the address information of the second user plane functional network element of the second core network.

[0018] In one possible implementation, if the first control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, the first control plane function network element can also notify the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element to cache the data of the first service. This enables the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element to cache the data of the first service, so that the access network element can subsequently send the cached data of the first service to terminal devices that need to obtain the data of the first service, thereby improving the transmission reliability of the data of the first service.

[0019] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a first control plane functional network element or by a component of the first control plane functional network element. The method includes: a first control plane function network element sending address information of a second user plane function network element to a first user plane function network element, the address information being used by the first user plane function network element to send data of a first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the second user plane function network element; and sending first information to the second control plane function network element or sending second information to the second user plane function network element; wherein the first information is used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element, the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data, wherein the first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, the second control plane function network element is located in a second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0020] In the above embodiments, the first control plane function network element sends the address information of the second user plane function network element located in the second core network to the first user plane function network element located in the first core network, and sends first information or second information to the second control plane function network element located in the second core network. This enables the data of the first service to be transmitted to the terminal device through both the first core network and the second core network, thereby improving the transmission reliability of the data of the first service and ensuring the continuity of the data transmission of the first service.

[0021] The second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data. This means that the second user plane function network element can transparently transmit the data of the first service sent from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or it can send the data based on the sequence number determined by the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element. The implementation method is flexible and can enable the first core network and the second core network to reach a consensus on the understanding of the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first information may include one or more of the following: first transmission indication information, first buffer indication information, or first numbering rule information; wherein, the first transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for transmitting the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or the first transmission indication information is used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the first buffer indication information is used to indicate the data for buffering the first service; the first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate a numbering rule, which is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data for the first service to the access network element.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the second information may include one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, or second buffering indication information; wherein, the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for transmitting the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the second buffering indication information is used to indicate the data for buffering the first service; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate a numbering rule, which is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data for the first service to the access network element.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network; or, the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are MB control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

[0027] In one possible implementation, if the first control plane function element is located in the first core network, the first control plane function element can also receive address information from the second user plane function element. Alternatively, if the first control plane function element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, the first control plane function element can also receive address information from the second user plane function element.

[0028] In one possible implementation, if the first control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, the first control plane function network element can also notify the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element to cache the data of the first service.

[0029] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a first user plane function network element or by a component of the first user plane function network element. In this method, the first user plane function network element receives address information from a second user plane function network element of a first control plane function network element; sends data for a first service to the second user plane function network element based on the address information; and sends the data and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the access network element corresponding to the first user plane function network element; wherein the first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network; or, the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the first user plane function network element sending the data of the first service to the second user plane function network element can be: the first user plane function network element sends the data and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the second user plane function network element.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the first user plane function network element can also determine the sequence number corresponding to the data based on the first sequence number, where the first sequence number is the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service; and / or, the first user plane function network element can also determine the sequence number corresponding to the data based on the encoding rules.

[0034] In the above implementation, the first user plane function network element can use various methods to obtain the sequence number used to send the data of the first service, and the implementation method is flexible.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the first user plane function network element may also receive a first sequence number from the first control plane function network element. For example, the first sequence number may be a sequence number from the data provider.

[0036] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide yet another communication method, which can be executed by a second control plane function network element or by a component within the second control plane function network element. In this method: the second control plane function network element sends address information of the second user plane function network element to the first control plane function network element; this address information can be used by the first user plane function network element to send data for a first service to the second user plane function network element; receives first information from the first control plane function network element or a data provider; and, based on the first information, sends second information to the second user plane function network element, the second information being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data from the first user plane function network element to the access network element; wherein the first control plane function network element and the first user plane function network element are located in a first core network, and the second control plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are located in a second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the first information may include a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service or the sequence number corresponding to the first data; wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

[0038] Furthermore, the first information may also include one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, or first cache indication information; wherein, the first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; the first cache indication information is used to indicate the cache of the data of the first service.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the second information may include a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service or the sequence number corresponding to the first data; wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

[0040] Furthermore, the second information may also include one or more of the following: processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, or second buffering indication information; wherein, the processing rules are used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the access network element using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; the second buffering indication information is used to indicate the buffering of the data of the first service.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are MB control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the second control plane function element can also receive address information from the second user plane function element.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the second control plane function network element can also notify the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element to cache the data of the first service based on the first information.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the second control plane function network element can also receive a first sequence number from the data provider and send the first sequence number to the second user plane function network element.

[0046] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide another communication method, which can be executed by a second control plane function network element or by a component within the second control plane function network element. In this method: the second control plane function network element sends address information of the second user plane function network element to the first control plane function network element. This address information can be used by the first user plane function network element to send data of a first service and the corresponding sequence number of the data to the second user plane function network element; receives first information from the first control plane function network element or a data provider; and, based on the first information, sends second information to the second user plane function network element; wherein the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send data from the first user plane function network element and the corresponding sequence number of the data, or the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the corresponding sequence number of the data; wherein the first control plane function network element and the first user plane function network element are located in the first core network, and the second control plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are located in the second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first information may include one or more of the following: first transmission indication information, first buffer indication information, or first numbering rule information; wherein, the first transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for sending the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the first buffer indication information is used to indicate the data for buffering the first service.

[0048] In one possible implementation, the second information may include one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, or second buffering indication information; wherein, the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for transmitting the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the second buffering indication information is used to indicate the data for buffering the first service; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate a numbering rule, and the numbering rule is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data for the first service to the access network element.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are MB control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

[0051] In one possible implementation, the second control plane function element can also receive address information from the second user plane function element.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the second control plane function network element can also notify the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element to cache the data of the first service based on the first information.

[0053] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a second user plane function network element (MBF) or by a component of the second MBF. In this method, the second MBF receives second information from a control plane function network element (CNF), the second information being used to determine the sequence number used by the second MBF to send data of a first service from a first MBF to an access network element; receives second data of the first service from the first MBF; determines a second sequence number based on the second information; and sends the second data to the access network element corresponding to the second MBF using the second sequence number; wherein the first MBF is located in a first core network, the second MBF is located in a second core network, the control plane function element is located in the second core network or shared by the first and second core networks, and the first and second core networks are different.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the second information may include a first sequence number, which is the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the sequence number corresponding to the first data; wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

[0055] Furthermore, the second information also includes one or more of the following: processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, or second cache indication information; wherein, the processing rules are used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the access network element using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; the second cache indication information is used to indicate the caching of the data of the first service.

[0056] In one possible implementation, determining the second sequence number based on the second information can be: when the second data is data of a first service sent for the first time by a first user plane function network element to a second user plane function network element, the second sequence number is determined as the first sequence number; or, when the second information includes processing rules, the second sequence number is determined according to the processing rules; or, when the second information includes second numbering rule information, the numbering rule is determined according to the second numbering rule information, and the second sequence number is determined according to the numbering rule and the first sequence number.

[0057] In the above implementation, the second user plane function network element can use multiple implementation methods to determine the second sequence number, and the implementation method is flexible.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0059] In one possible implementation, the control plane function element is an MB control plane function element, and the first user plane function element and the second user plane function element are MB user plane function elements.

[0060] In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element can also cache the second data based on the second information. For example, the second user plane function network element can cache the second data and the third sequence number based on the second information.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element can also send its address information to the control plane function network element. For example, the second user plane function network element sends this address information to the second control plane function network element.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element may also receive a first sequence number from the control plane function network element. For example, the second user plane function network element receives a first sequence number from the second control plane function network element.

[0063] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication method, which can be executed by a second user plane function network element or by a component of the second user plane function network element. In this method, the second user plane function network element receives second information from a control plane function network element; receives second data of a first service from a first user plane function network element and a third sequence number corresponding to the second data; when the second information triggers the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, it sends the second data and the third sequence number to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element; or, based on the second information and the third sequence number, it determines the second sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the second data to the access network element, and uses the second sequence number to send the second data to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element; wherein the first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, the control plane function element is located in the second core network or shared by the first and second core networks, and the first and second core networks are different.

[0064] In one possible implementation, the second information may include one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, or second buffering indication information; wherein, the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for transmitting the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the second buffering indication information is used to indicate the data for buffering the first service; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate a numbering rule, and the numbering rule is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data for the first service to the access network element.

[0065] In one possible implementation, determining the second sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send second data to the access network element based on the second information and the third sequence number can be as follows: when the second information includes second transmission indication information, and the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for sending the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, the second sequence number is determined as the third sequence number based on the second transmission indication information; or, when the second information includes second transmission indication information, and the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data, the second sequence number is determined based on the third sequence number; or, when the second information includes second numbering rule information, the numbering rule is determined based on the second numbering rule information, and the second sequence number is determined based on the numbering rule and the third sequence number.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the control plane function element is an MB control plane function element, and the first user plane function element and the second user plane function element are MB user plane function elements.

[0068] In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element can also cache the second data based on the second information. For example, the second user plane function network element can cache the second data and the third sequence number based on the second information.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element can also send its address information to the control plane function network element. For example, the second user plane function network element sends this address information to the second control plane function network element.

[0070] In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element may also receive a first sequence number from the control plane function network element. For example, the second user plane function network element receives a first sequence number from the second control plane function network element.

[0071] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide yet another communication method, which can be executed by an access network element or by a component within the access network element. In this method, the access network element receives a notification message from a control plane function network element, the notification message being used to trigger buffering of data for a first service; receives second data of the first service and a second sequence number corresponding to the second data from a second user plane function network element; and stores the second data and the second sequence number according to the notification message; wherein the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network; the control plane function element is located in the second core network, or the control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0072] In the above embodiments, the access network element can receive the second data from the first core network through the second core network and cache the second data so that it can subsequently send the second data to terminal devices interested in the first service, thereby ensuring the continuity and reliability of the data transmission of the first service.

[0073] In one possible implementation, the notification message includes storage extension information and / or the storage duration of the data for the first service, wherein the storage extension information is used to trigger the access network element to extend the storage time of the data for the first service.

[0074] In one possible implementation, the access network element can also receive a request message from a terminal device, the request message being used to request the acquisition of second data, the request message carrying a fourth sequence number; based on the fourth sequence number, the data of the first service corresponding to the stored second sequence number is sent to the terminal device, the second sequence number being different from the fourth sequence number.

[0075] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0076] In one possible implementation, the control plane function element is an MB control plane function element, and the first user plane function element and the second user plane function element are MB user plane function elements.

[0077] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide yet another communication method, which can be executed by a data provider or by a component of the data provider. In this method, the data provider determines a sequence number corresponding to the first data of a first service as a first sequence number; sends the first sequence number to a first control plane function network element, the first sequence number being used by the first user plane function network element when sending the first data to an access network element and a second user plane function network element corresponding to the first user plane function network element; and sends the first sequence number to a second control plane function network element, the first sequence number being used by the second user plane function network element when sending the first data to an access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element; wherein the first user plane function network element and the first control plane function network element are located in a first core network, and the second user plane function network element and the second control plane function network element are located in a second core network, and the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0078] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0079] In one possible implementation, the first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are MB control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

[0080] In one possible implementation, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time.

[0081] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide yet another communication method, which can be executed by a data provider or by a component of the data provider. In this method, the data provider determines a sequence number corresponding to the first data of a first service as a first sequence number; sends the first sequence number to a control plane function network element, the first sequence number being used by the first user plane function network element when sending the first data to an access network element and a second user plane function network element corresponding to the first user plane function network element, and also used by the second user plane function network element when sending the first data to an access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element; wherein the first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, the first core network and the second core network are different, and the control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

[0082] In one possible implementation, the first core network is a broadcast core network, such as a core network used for broadcast services. The second core network is a mobile communication core network, such as the core network in a 5G mobile communication system, or the core network in an NR system, or the core network used in future communication systems, etc.

[0083] In one possible implementation, the control plane function element is an MB control plane function element, and the first user plane function element and the second user plane function element are MB user plane function elements.

[0084] In one possible implementation, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time.

[0085] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device. The communication device is used to perform the method described in the first to second aspects and any possible implementations thereof. The communication device is, for example, a first control plane functional network element, or a functional module within a first control plane functional network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0086] In another possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the sending function, it can be called a sending unit (sometimes also called a sending module); when it performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The sending unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional unit, referred to as the transceiver unit, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending unit and the receiving unit can be different functional units, with "transceiver unit" being a collective term for these functional units.

[0087] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device. The communication device is used to perform the method described in the third aspect above and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device is, for example, a first user plane function network element, or a functional module within a first user plane function network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0088] In another possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the sending function, it can be called a sending unit (sometimes also called a sending module); when it performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The sending unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional unit, referred to as the transceiver unit, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending unit and the receiving unit can be different functional units, with "transceiver unit" being a collective term for these functional units.

[0089] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device. The communication device is used to perform the method described in the fourth to fifth aspects and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device is, for example, a second control plane functional network element, or a functional module within a second control plane functional network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0090] In another possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the sending function, it can be called a sending unit (sometimes also called a sending module); when it performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The sending unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional unit, referred to as the transceiver unit, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending unit and the receiving unit can be different functional units, with "transceiver unit" being a collective term for these functional units.

[0091] In a fourteenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device. The communication device is used to perform the method described in the sixth to seventh aspects and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device is, for example, a second user plane function network element, or a functional module within a second user plane function network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0092] In another possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the sending function, it can be called a sending unit (sometimes also called a sending module); when it performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The sending unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional unit, referred to as the transceiver unit, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending unit and the receiving unit can be different functional units, with "transceiver unit" being a collective term for these functional units.

[0093] In a fifteenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device. The communication device is used to perform the method described in the eighth aspect above and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device is, for example, an access network element, or a functional module within an access network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system. In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0094] In another possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the sending function, it can be called a sending unit (sometimes also called a sending module); when it performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The sending unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional unit, referred to as the transceiver unit, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending unit and the receiving unit can be different functional units, with "transceiver unit" being a collective term for these functional units.

[0095] In a sixteenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device. The communication device is used to perform the method described in the ninth to tenth aspects and any possible implementation thereof. The communication device is, for example, a data provider, or a functional module within a data provider, such as a baseband device or a chip system. In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device.

[0096] In another possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of both sending and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the sending function, it can be called a sending unit (sometimes also called a sending module); when it performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The sending unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional unit, referred to as the transceiver unit, which performs both sending and receiving functions; or, the sending unit and the receiving unit can be different functional units, with "transceiver unit" being a collective term for these functional units.

[0097] In a seventeenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a communication device. The communication device may include one or more processors. Optionally, the communication device may further include a memory. The memory is used to store one or more computer programs or instructions. The one or more processors are used to execute the one or more computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, causing the communication device to perform the methods described in the first to second aspects and any possible implementations thereof, or to perform the methods described in the third aspect and any possible implementations thereof, or to perform the methods described in the fourth to fifth aspects and any possible implementations thereof, or to perform the methods described in the sixth to seventh aspects and any possible implementations thereof, or to perform the methods described in the eighth aspect and any possible implementations thereof, or to perform the methods described in the ninth to tenth aspects and any possible implementations thereof.

[0098] In an eighteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system. The communication system includes the communication device described in the eleventh aspect and the communication device described in the twelfth aspect. Optionally, the communication system further includes the communication device described in the sixteenth aspect.

[0099] In a nineteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system. The communication system includes the communication device described in the thirteenth aspect and the communication device described in the fourteenth aspect. Optionally, the communication system further includes the communication device described in the fifteenth aspect. Optionally, the communication system further includes the communication device described in the sixteenth aspect.

[0100] In a twentieth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the methods described in the first to second aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the third aspect and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the fourth to fifth aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the sixth to seventh aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the eighth aspect and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the ninth to tenth aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented.

[0101] In a twentieth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a computer program product containing instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the methods described in the first to second aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the third aspect and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the fourth to fifth aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the sixth to seventh aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the eighth aspect and any of their possible implementations to be implemented, or cause the methods described in the ninth to tenth aspects and any of their possible implementations to be implemented.

[0102] In a twentieth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a chip coupled to a memory for reading and executing program instructions in the memory, such that the device in which the chip is located implements the method described in the first to second aspects and any of their possible implementations, or implements the method described in the third aspect and any of their possible implementations, or implements the method described in the fourth to fifth aspects and any of their possible implementations, or implements the method described in the sixth to seventh aspects and any of their possible implementations, or implements the method described in the eighth aspect and any of their possible implementations, or implements the method described in the ninth to tenth aspects and any of their possible implementations, or implements the method described in the seventh aspect and any of their possible implementations.

[0103] The technical effects that can be achieved by the third to twenty-second aspects and any of their possible implementations mentioned above should be referred to the technical effects that can be achieved by the first to second aspects and any of their possible implementations mentioned above, and will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0104] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a 5G communication system;

[0105] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an MBS system;

[0106] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a communication system that includes large towers and small towers;

[0107] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0108] Figure 4a A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0109] Figure 4b A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0110] Figure 4c A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0111] Figure 4d A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0112] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0113] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0114] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a communication architecture provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0115] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating yet another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0116] Figure 9 A schematic diagram illustrating yet another communication architecture provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0117] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0118] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0119] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0120] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0121] The network architecture and business scenarios described in this application are intended to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0122] In this application embodiment, "multiple" can refer to two or more. Therefore, in this application embodiment, "multiple" can also be understood as "at least two". "At least one" can be understood as one or more, such as one, two, or more. For example, "including at least one" means including one, two, or more. For example, including at least one of A, B, and C, then it could include A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B, and C. "And / or" describes the association relationship between related objects. Specifically, there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / ", unless otherwise specified, generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0123] Furthermore, the terms "system" and "network" in the embodiments of this application can be used interchangeably, and "according to" and "based on" can be used interchangeably.

[0124] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are generally used to distinguish different objects, and are not used to limit the order, timing, priority, or importance of multiple objects. For example, the first core network and the second core network in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish two core networks, and do not limit the priority or importance of these two core networks.

[0125] This application will present embodiments relating to a system comprising multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood that the system may include other unmentioned devices, components, modules, etc., or may include only some of the devices, components, or modules mentioned in the embodiments.

[0126] The communication system applicable to the embodiments of this application will be introduced below.

[0127] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, 5th Generation (5G) communication systems, or New Radio (NR) systems. They can also be applied to future communication systems or other similar communication systems. This application uses a 5G mobile communication system as an example for description. When applying the technical solutions of this application to other communication systems, the devices, components, and modules in the embodiments can be replaced with corresponding devices, components, and modules in other communication systems, without limitation.

[0128] Figure 1 A network architecture for a 5G communication system is provided, which may include: user equipment (UE), access network (AN), and core network. The network architecture may also include data network (DN) and / or application function (AF) network elements. The UE accesses the core network through the AN and communicates with the DN or AF network elements through the core network.

[0129] A UE, also known as a terminal device or terminal, is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities. It can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; on water (such as on ships); and in the air (such as on airplanes, balloons, and satellites). Specifically, a UE can be a mobile phone, tablet, computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminal, augmented reality (AR) terminal, wireless terminal in industrial control, wireless terminal in self-driving, wireless terminal in remote medical care, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in transportation safety, wireless terminal in smart city, wireless terminal in smart home, and wireless terminal in the Internet of Things (IoT), etc.

[0130] An AN includes AN devices. These AN devices are used to connect terminal devices to the wireless network. As nodes in the access network, AN devices can also be referred to as access network elements, base stations, radio access network (RAN) nodes (or devices, or network elements), access points (APs), small towers, etc. Examples include next-generation node B (gNB) in 5G communication systems, evolved node B (eNB) in LTE systems, radio network controllers (RNCs), node B (NBs), basestation controllers (BSCs), base transceiver stations (BTSs), home node B (HNBs), baseband units (BBUs), wireless fidelity (WiFi) access points, transmission reception points (TRPs), transmission points (TPs), or mobile switching centers, etc.

[0131] It should be noted that the equipment with base station functions may differ in communication systems employing different wireless access technologies. For example, in a 5G communication system, this equipment may be called a gNB or 5G NodeB; in an LTE system, it may be called an evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB); and in a third-generation (3G) communication system, it may be called a Node B, etc.

[0132] A Data Network (DN), located outside the mobile communication system, provides services to users. For example, a DN can be a Packet Data Network (PDN), such as the Internet, Internet Protocol Multimedia Service (IMS) networks, application-specific data networks, Ethernet, or Internet Protocol (IP) local area networks. A DN can deploy various services, providing data and / or voice services to terminal devices. A DN can contain multiple application servers (AS), each providing at least one service.

[0133] Application function network elements support interaction with the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) core network to provide services, such as influencing data routing decisions, policy control functions, or providing third-party services to the network side. In future communication systems, application function network elements may have other names, without limitation.

[0134] The core network can include two categories: user plane function network elements (hereinafter referred to as user plane network elements) and control plane function network elements (hereinafter referred to as control plane network elements). Among them, control plane function network elements can include access management network elements, session management network elements, unified data management network elements, and policy control network elements, etc.

[0135] The access management network element is responsible for access control and mobility management of terminal devices accessing the operator's network, including functions such as mobility state management, assigning temporary user identities, authentication, and authorization. In 5G communication systems, this access management network element can be an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element. In future communication systems, the access management network element may have other names, without limitation.

[0136] The session management network element is primarily responsible for session management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release. It can also assign IP addresses to users and select user plane network elements that provide packet forwarding functionality. In 5G communication systems, this session management network element can be a session management function (SMF) network element. In future communication systems, the session management network element may have other names without limitation.

[0137] The unified data management network element is responsible for generating authentication credentials, processing user identifiers (such as storing and managing permanent user identities), and managing subscription data. In 5G communication systems, this unified data management network element can be a unified data management (UDM) network element. In future communication systems, this unified data management network element may have other names, without limitation.

[0138] The policy control network element primarily provides policy rules and is also responsible for acquiring user subscription information related to policy decisions. In 4G communication systems, this policy control network element can be a policy and charging rule function (PCRF) network element. In 5G communication systems, this policy control network element can be a policy control function (PCF) network element. In future communication systems, the policy control network element may have other names, without limitation.

[0139] User plane network elements are responsible for receiving and forwarding user data. For example, they can receive user data from the data network and transmit it to the terminal device via the access network equipment; user plane network elements can also receive user data from the terminal device via the access network equipment and forward it to the data network. In 5G communication systems, this user plane network element can be a user plane function (UPF) network element. In future communication systems, user plane network elements may have other names, without limitation.

[0140] As above, Figure 1 This application mainly introduces the network elements that may be involved in various embodiments. Figure 1 The communication system shown may also involve other network elements. For example, the core network may also include a unified data repository (UDR) network element and a network repository function (NRF) network element. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image), network exposure function (NEF) network elements, etc. Figure 1 (Not shown in the image).

[0141] like Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a multicast / broadcast service (MBS) system architecture under a 5G communication system. Compared to... Figure 1The system architecture mainly adds MBS-related equipment, including: multicast / broadcast SMF (MB-SMF) network element, multicast / broadcast UPF (MB-UPF) network element, multicast / broadcast service function (MBSF) network element, and multicast / broadcast service transport function (MBSTF) network element.

[0142] The MB-SMF is primarily responsible for managing MBS sessions (e.g., controlling the quality of service (QoS) of MBS sessions and configuring MB-UPF); interacting with AN devices to control the transmission of broadcast streams (e.g., interacting with AN devices to exchange broadcast session-specific functions); interacting with AN devices to control the transmission of multicast streams (e.g., interacting with AN devices to exchange multicast session-specific functions); and interacting with the SMF to associate multicast sessions with unicast sessions (e.g., protocol data unit (PDU) sessions).

[0143] MB-UPF is the data plane gateway for 5G multicast and / or broadcast services. Its main responsibilities include: interacting with MB-SMF to obtain data forwarding rules; transmitting service data packets to AN devices through shared delivery mode; and transmitting service data packets to UPF through individual delivery mode.

[0144] The MBSF is primarily responsible for implementing service layer functions, interacting with the 4G mobile communication system to provide multimedia broadcast / multicast service (MBMS); interacting with the AF and / or MB-SMF to support multicast session operations, determine transmission parameters and multicast session types; selecting the MB-SMF; controlling the MBSTF; and determining the sender's IP multicast address, etc.

[0145] MBSTF is primarily responsible for: serving as the anchor point for MBS data; serving as the source for IP multicast; supporting common transmission functions such as frames, multistreams, and forward error correction (FEC); and sending objects or object flows for input files via multicast or broadcast.

[0146] in addition, Figure 1 Some devices in the architecture shown can further implement multicast and / or broadcast services, as detailed below.

[0147] The PCF (Process Control Filter) is primarily responsible for QoS processing of MBS sessions, providing policy information to the MB-SMF (Mobile Streaming Function), and obtaining QoS information for MBS sessions through interaction with the UDR (User Controller). It should be noted that the PCF is an optional network element for MBS; for example, it can be used to implement MBS when dynamic policy charging control (PCC) is employed.

[0148] The SMF is primarily responsible for discovering the MB-SMF, authenticating terminal devices joining MBS sessions, managing the context of MBS sessions through interaction with the MB-SMF, and establishing multicast transmission channels through interaction with the AN.

[0149] UPF is primarily responsible for interacting with MB-UPF to enable the transmission of MBS session service data using an independent transmission method.

[0150] The AMF is primarily responsible for signaling routing (e.g., signaling routing from AN devices to MB-SMF), as well as selecting AN devices for MBS.

[0151] AF / AS is primarily responsible for providing MBS service information to CN equipment (e.g., 5G CN equipment), requesting MBS, and instructing MBS session operations with CN equipment.

[0152] The AN device is primarily responsible for processing the QoS flow of MBS sessions, sending MBS data to terminal devices via point-to-multipoint (PTM) and / or point-to-point (PTP), configuring the access stratum to receive the MBS QoS flow, switching between PTM and PTP, supporting interface switching of MBS sessions (e.g., supporting Xn and N2 switching of multicast sessions), processing session signaling, and establishing air interface broadcast and / or multicast resources, etc.

[0153] UDM is primarily responsible for MBS session subscription / subscription management, etc.

[0154] The terminal equipment is mainly responsible for receiving MBS data packets through PTM and / or PTP, processing QoS, initiating join and / or leave for MBS sessions, and managing resources on the terminal equipment side of MBS sessions.

[0155] also, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The document also demonstrates the interfaces between multiple communication devices in a communication system. Figure 1 and Figure 2 N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N10, N11, N25, Namf, Npcf, Nsmf, Nnrf, Nudm, Nmbsmf, Nmbsf, Nnef, Naf, Uu, MB-N9, MB2-C, xMB2-C, MB2-U, and xMB2-U are interface sequence numbers. The meanings of these interface sequence numbers can be found in the definitions provided in the 3GPP standard protocols, and are not limited here.

[0156] Understandable Figure 1 and Figure 2 The network elements or functions shown can be network components in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, or virtualized functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). One possible implementation is that the aforementioned network elements or functions can be implemented by a single device, multiple devices working together, or a functional module within a single device; no specific limitations are imposed on this.

[0157] Additionally, for ease of description, the term "network element" may be omitted from the device names mentioned in this application. For example, SMF network element and SMF have the same meaning.

[0158] It should be understood that, Figure 1 and Figure 2 The communication system shown does not constitute a limitation on the communication systems applicable to the embodiments of this application. The communication method provided in the embodiments of this application can also be applied to various communication systems, such as: LTE communication system, 5G communication system, 6G communication system and future communication system, vehicle to everything (V2X), LTE-vehicle (LTE-V), vehicle to vehicle (V2V), vehicle network, machine type communications (MTC), IoT, LTE-machine to machine (LTE-M), machine to machine (M2M), Internet of Things, etc.

[0159] Furthermore, the embodiments of this application do not limit the names of each network element in the communication system. For example, in communication systems of different standards, each network element may have other names; or, for example, when multiple network elements are integrated into the same physical device, the physical device may also have other names.

[0160] It should be noted that, as mentioned above Figure 1 and Figure 2 The AN equipment shown can be called a small tower, as opposed to a large tower. A large tower can also be called a broadcast television tower. For broadcast services, the broadcast television industry can deploy equipment independent of the mobile communication core network (such as...). Figure 1 or Figure 2 The core network shown can be called the broadcast core (BCcore), and it uses towers to provide broadcast services, such as live television broadcasting. Specifically, the data provider for the broadcast service can send broadcast service data to the towers through the broadcast core network, and then the towers broadcast the data to the terminal equipment of broadcast television users. The data provider can be a cloud server, a server, or a server cluster, etc., without limitation.

[0161] With the development of mobile communication technology, broadcast television users can receive broadcast data (which can be called broadcast data) from the tower through terminal equipment, such as... Figure 3 As shown. In Figure 3 In this context, terminal devices can receive broadcast data through large towers and the broadcast core network, or they can access the mobile communication core network through small towers. Figure 3 (Taking the 5G core network as an example). However, due to the large coverage area of ​​the towers and the limited capabilities of terminal devices (such as power consumption), it is difficult to guarantee the continuity and reliability of broadcast services. For example, when the network environment of the terminal device is poor (such as moving to an area with weak tower signal coverage, or network congestion), the terminal device may not be able to successfully receive broadcast data from the tower, resulting in the loss of broadcast data. Therefore, how to ensure the continuity and reliability of broadcast data received by broadcast television users through terminal devices has become an urgent problem to be solved.

[0162] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide a communication method and apparatus to ensure the continuity and reliability of broadcast data received by broadcast television users through terminal equipment. The technical terms involved in the embodiments of this application are described below.

[0163] The first core network and the second core network are two different core networks. For example, the first core network is a broadcast core network, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network; or, the first core network is a non-mobile communication core network, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network; or, the first core network is a core network dedicated to providing services for broadcast services, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network. The broadcast core network can be... Figure 3 The BC core shown may refer to other core networks used for broadcast services, without limitation. A mobile communication core network can be... Figure 1 , Figure 2 or Figure 3 The 5G core shown may be the core network of a 6G communication system or the core network of a future communication system, without limitation. For ease of understanding of the embodiments of this application, the following description will use the BC core as the first core network and the 5G core as the second core network as an example.

[0164] Terminal devices can Figure 1 , Figure 2 or Figure 3 The UE in the text is not limited.

[0165] The Great Tower can Figure 3 The large tower in the middle is not limited.

[0166] The small tower can Figure 1 or Figure 2 The access network element in the middle, or is Figure 3 The small towers in the middle are not limited.

[0167] The first control plane functional network element can be located in the first core network, or shared by the first core network and the second core network. The first control plane functional network element being located in the first core network can be understood as the first control plane functional network element being deployed in the first core network, or as the first control plane functional network element belonging to the first core network, or as the first control plane functional network element being a network element within the first core network, etc.

[0168] The first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network. This can be understood as the first control plane functional network element being used to provide services to the first core network and the second core network, or as the control plane functional network elements of the first core network and the second core network being co-located, or as the first control plane functional network element being deployed in the first core network and the second core network, or as the first control plane functional network element belonging to the first core network and the second core network, or as the first control plane functional network element being a network element in the first core network and the second core network, etc.

[0169] The second control plane functional network elements can be located in the second core network, or shared by the first core network and the second core network.

[0170] The first user plane functional network element is located in the first core network. The second user plane functional network element is located in the second core network. It can be understood that the access network element corresponding to the first user plane functional network element, and the access network element in which the first user plane functional network element sends data to the access network element, can all be referred to as a "large tower." The access network element corresponding to the second user plane functional network element, and the access network element in which the second user plane functional network element sends data to the access network element, can all be referred to as a "small tower."

[0171] The descriptions of the second control plane functional network element being located in the second core network, the first user plane functional network element being located in the first core network, and the second user plane functional network element being located in the second core network are similarly described in the preceding descriptions of the first control plane functional network element being located in the first core network. Similarly, the descriptions of the second control plane functional network element being shared by the first and second core networks are also similarly described in the preceding descriptions of the first control plane functional network element being shared by the first and second core networks. These details will not be repeated here. For ease of understanding of the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified, the following text will use the example of the second control plane functional network element being located in the second core network.

[0172] The control plane function network element can be a multicast / broadcast (MB) control plane function network element. For example, the first control plane function network element is the first MB control plane function network element, and the second control plane function element is the second MB control plane function network element. This MB control plane function network element can be an MB-SMF, AMF, or the control plane function of a broadcast / multicast service center (BM-SC), etc., without limitation.

[0173] User plane function network elements can be MB user plane function network elements. For example, the first user plane function network element can be the first MB user plane function network element, and the second user plane function network element can be the second MB user plane function network element. This MB user plane function network element can be MB-UPF, etc., without limitation. It should be noted that MB control plane function network elements and MB user plane function network elements can be co-located, without limitation.

[0174] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. The method involves a first user plane function network element located in a first core network, a second user plane function network element located in a second core network, and a second control plane function network element located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different. Figure 4 As shown, the method may include the following steps.

[0175] S401: The first control plane function element sends the address information of the second user plane function element to the first user plane function element.

[0176] Accordingly, the first user plane function network element receives the address information of the second user plane function network element from the first control plane function network element.

[0177] The address information can be used by the first user plane function network element to send data of the first service to the second user plane function network element. Specifically, the address information can be an IP address or a MAC address, etc., without limitation. The first service can be a broadcast service, such as live television service, or other services transmitted via tower. This application embodiment does not limit the service type of the first service.

[0178] Furthermore, the address information can also be used as the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service sent from the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element. That is, the address information can be used by the first user plane function network element to send the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the second user plane function network element.

[0179] The sequence number corresponding to the data can be understood as the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element (i.e., the tower, hereinafter referred to as the tower), or the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the data to the tower and the second user plane function network element. This sequence number used to send the data can be understood as the sequence number sent along with the data, that is, sending the data along with its corresponding sequence number. For example, when encapsulating a data packet, the sequence number corresponding to the data is encapsulated in the header of the data packet, and the data is encapsulated in the payload of the data packet. After encapsulation, the data packet is sent.

[0180] It should be noted that the first service can be provided by a data provider, which can be AF / AS, MBSTF, or MBSF, etc. The data provider can be located in the first core network, the second core network, or outside of the first and second core networks; there are no restrictions.

[0181] It should be noted that the technical terms involved in the embodiments of this application, such as first core network, second core network, AF / AS, MBSTF, and MBSF, can all refer to the foregoing content and will not be repeated here.

[0182] It should be noted that after S401, S402 or S404 can be executed. For example, if the first control plane function network element is located in the first core network, then the first control plane function network element executes S402; or, if the first control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, then the first control plane function network element executes S404.

[0183] It should be noted that, Figure 4The execution order of S401 and S402 (or the execution order of S401 and S404) shown is only an example, and the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto. For example, the first control plane functional network element may execute S402 (or S404) first, and then execute S401.

[0184] S402: The first control plane functional element sends the first information to the second control plane functional element.

[0185] Accordingly, the second control plane functional network element receives the first information from the first control plane functional network element.

[0186] In S402, assuming that the first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network, the first control plane functional network element can send first information to the second control plane functional network element.

[0187] The first information can be used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element. For example, the first information can be used to instruct or trigger the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element.

[0188] The second piece of information can be presented based on the following situations:

[0189] In scenario 1, the second information can be used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the access network element (i.e., the small tower, hereinafter referred to as the small tower). For example, this second information can be used to instruct or trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used to send data of the first service to the small tower based on a sequence number (such as denoted as the fifth sequence number). The fifth sequence number can be the first sequence number, or it can be a sequence number determined based on the first sequence number, such as by adding an offset, etc., without limitation.

[0190] Scenario 2: The second information can be used to trigger (or instruct) the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element, along with the corresponding sequence number. For example, the second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element to transparently transmit data of the first service from the first user plane function network element, along with the corresponding sequence number. In other words, the second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element not to process the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element, along with the corresponding sequence number, and to directly forward the data and the corresponding sequence number.

[0191] In scenario 3, the second information can be used to trigger (or instruct) the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service. For example, the second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number received simultaneously with the data of the first service. The sequence number used to send the data to the small tower can be the received sequence number or a sequence number obtained by offsetting the received sequence number. Accordingly, the second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element to obtain the sequence number used to send the data to the small tower by offsetting the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element. The sequence number received simultaneously with the data of the first service can refer to the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send (e.g., to the large tower and the second user plane function network element) the data of the first service. The sequence number received simultaneously with the data of the first service and the data can be carried in a single data packet. For example, the data of the first service includes data 1, and the sequence number corresponding to data 1 is denoted as sequence number 1. The first user plane function network element encapsulates data 1 in the payload of data packet 1 and encapsulates sequence number 1 in the header of data packet 1. After encapsulation, it sends data packet 1. Correspondingly, the second user plane function network element receives data packet 1, and the sequence number 1 therein can be referred to as the sequence number received simultaneously with data 1. Furthermore, the sequence number 1 determined based on this sequence number 1 can be the sequence number 1 itself, or it can be the sequence number obtained by offsetting the sequence number 1, without limitation.

[0192] In S402, the first information can be a single information element or can be implemented through specific information, without limitation.

[0193] It should be noted that S402 is an optional step. Figure 4 (Represented by dashed lines), specifically, it can be replaced by: the data provider sending the first information to the second control plane function network element, and correspondingly, the second control plane function network element receiving the first information from the data provider. For example, the first information includes a first sequence number, which can be used to instruct or trigger the second control plane function network element to send second information to the second user plane function network element. Further, after receiving the first information, the second control plane function network element executes S403.

[0194] S403: The second control plane function element sends the second information to the second user plane function element.

[0195] Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives the second information from the second control plane function network element.

[0196] Specifically, the second control plane function network element can send second information to the second user plane function network element based on the first information. The first information can instruct or trigger the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element.

[0197] For example, after receiving the first information, the second control plane function network element may generate (or determine) the second information in response to the first information and send the second information to the second user plane function network element.

[0198] The second information can be generated by the second control plane network element based on its own stored parameters, or it can be generated by the second control plane functional network element based on the first information, without restriction.

[0199] In S403, the second information can be a single information element or can be implemented through specific information, without limitation.

[0200] S404: The first control plane function element sends the second information to the second user plane function element.

[0201] Accordingly, the second user plane function element receives the second information from the first control plane function element.

[0202] In S404, the first control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network. This first control plane function network element can send second information to the second user plane function network element. For example, the first control plane function network element can configure (or determine) the second information and send it to the second user plane function network element. The second information can be generated by the first control plane function network element based on its stored parameters, and there are no restrictions on its generation.

[0203] The first and second pieces of information will be explained in detail below.

[0204] The first information may include a first sequence number. This first sequence number may be the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the sequence number corresponding to the first data. The first data may be the data of the first service initially sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data may be the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

[0205] For example, the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service can be the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data packet carrying the data of the first service; or it can be the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the data of the first service for the first time within a set time period.

[0206] For example, the sequence number corresponding to the first data can be the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data packet carrying the first service data to the second user plane function network element, or the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first service data packet to the second user plane function network element for the first time within a set time period, or the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the tower, or the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the tower and the second user plane function network element.

[0207] The sequence number used to send the first data can be understood as the sequence number sent along with the first data, that is, sending the first data and the sequence number corresponding to the first data. For example, when encapsulating the data packet, the sequence number is encapsulated in the header of the data packet, and the first data is encapsulated in the payload of the data packet. After encapsulation, the data packet is sent.

[0208] It should be understood that the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first service data for the first time can be the same as or different from the sequence number corresponding to the first data.

[0209] It should be understood that the first sequence number can be generated by the first user plane function network element or provided by the data provider. For example, the data provider can send the first sequence number to the first control plane function network element; the first control plane function network element can then send the first sequence number to the first user plane function network element.

[0210] Furthermore, the first information may also include one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, first transmission indication information, or first cache indication information. Alternatively, the first information may not include the first sequence number, and the first information may include one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, first transmission indication information, or first cache indication information.

[0211] Specifically, the second information may include the aforementioned fifth sequence number. The fifth sequence number is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data for the first service to the small tower. It can be the first sequence number, or a sequence number determined based on the first sequence number, such as by adding an offset, etc., without limitation. For ease of understanding, the fifth sequence number will be used as the first sequence number in the following example. Accordingly, the second information may include the aforementioned first sequence number.

[0212] Furthermore, the second information may also include one or more of the following: processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, second transmission indication information, second cache indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service. Alternatively, the second information may not include the first sequence number, and the second information may include one or more of the following: processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, second transmission indication information, second cache indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service.

[0213] The relevant information above will be introduced below.

[0214] (1) The first numbering rule information can be used to indicate the numbering rule. For example, the first numbering rule information is the identification information of the numbering rule. For example, if the value of the first numbering rule information is the first value, then the first numbering rule information can be used to indicate numbering rule 1, which is that the serial number increases by a step size of 1. As another example, if the value of the first numbering rule information is the second value, then the first numbering rule information can be used to indicate numbering rule 2, which is that the serial number increases by a step size of 2 within a range of 1. As yet another example, if the value of the first numbering rule information is the third value, then the first numbering rule information can be used to indicate numbering rule 3, which is that the serial number increases according to an arithmetic or geometric sequence.

[0215] Alternatively, the first numbering rule information can also be used to generate numbering rules. For example, if the first numbering rule information includes a step size of 4, then numbering rule 4 can be generated using this first numbering rule information, where the serial number increments by a step size of 4. As another example, if the first numbering rule information includes a step size of 5 and a range of 2, then numbering rule 5 can be generated using this first numbering rule information, where the serial number increments by a step size of 5 within the range of 2. Yet another example, if the first numbering rule information includes a tolerance of 1, then numbering rule 6 can be generated using this first numbering rule information, where the serial number increments by a tolerance of 1.

[0216] The numbering rule can also be called a numbering method, a sequence number numbering rule, or a sequence number setting rule, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the name of the numbering rule. This numbering rule can be used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data for the first service to the small tower.

[0217] It should be noted that the second numbering rule information can be used to indicate or generate numbering rules. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the first numbering rule information mentioned above, which will not be repeated here.

[0218] (2) The first transmission indication information can be used to indicate the transmission of the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, that is, the first transmission indication information indicates the transparent transmission of the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data. In other words, the first transmission indication information is used to indicate that the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first user plane function network element are not processed, and the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data are directly forwarded. For example, the data of the first service includes data 1, and the sequence number corresponding to data 1 is sequence number 1. The second user plane function network element receives data 1 and sequence number 1 from the first user plane function network element, and can send data 1 and sequence number 1 to the small tower according to the first transmission indication information.

[0219] Alternatively, the first transmission indication information can be used to instruct the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element. For example, the first transmission indication information can be used to instruct the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the tower by performing an offset operation on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element. Optionally, the first transmission indication information may include an offset value, or the offset value may be preset and is not limited. For example, the data of the first service includes data 2, and the sequence number corresponding to data 2 is sequence number 2. The second user plane function network element receives data 2 and sequence number 2 from the first user plane function network element, determines sequence number 3 based on sequence number 2 in response to the first transmission indication information, and sends data 2 and sequence number 3 to the tower. For example, the second user plane function network element can obtain the sequence number 3 by performing an offset operation on sequence number 2 based on offset value 1. The offset value 1 may be preset or configured by the first control plane function network element.

[0220] It should be noted that the second transmission indication information can be used to indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or it can be used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the first numbering rule information mentioned above, which will not be repeated here.

[0221] (3) The first cache indication information can be used to instruct the cache of data for the first service. For example, the first cache indication information can be used to instruct the second user plane function network element to cache the data for the first service, so that more small towers interested in the data for the first service can obtain the data for the first service. Among them, the small towers interested in the data for the first service can be small towers that have a demand for the data for the first service, or small towers that have joined the first multicast session, or small towers that have requested to obtain the data for the first service, etc.

[0222] Optionally, the first cache indication information can also be used to implicitly indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to implicitly indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element.

[0223] It should be noted that the second cache indication information can be used to indicate the data of the first service to be cached. For details, please refer to the relevant description of the first cache indication information mentioned above, which will not be repeated here.

[0224] (4) The processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service can be used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate and send the data of the first service to the tower using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number. For example, the processing rules are used to instruct or trigger the second user plane function network element to encapsulate and send the data of the first service to the tower using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number. For example, the processing rules instruct the second user plane function network element to encapsulate and send the first data to the tower using the first sequence number, as well as to encapsulate and send the data other than the first data in the first service to the tower using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number.

[0225] (5) Storage extension information can be used to trigger the extension of the storage time of the first service data, such as triggering the second user plane function network element to delay the storage time of the first service data.

[0226] (6) The storage duration of the data of the first service can be used to indicate the storage duration of the data of the first service, such as indicating the storage duration of the data of the first service by the second user plane function network element.

[0227] It is understood that the above processing rules may or may not include the first sequence number. That is, the second control plane function network element may send the first sequence number to the second user plane function network element separately, or it may include the first sequence number in the processing rules and send it to the second user plane function network element. Furthermore, the above storage extension information can be used to implicitly indicate the caching of data for the first service. Similarly, the above storage duration can also be used to implicitly indicate the caching of data for the first service.

[0228] The following examples illustrate the first and second information in light of the different scenarios described above for the second information.

[0229] 1. Regarding situation 1 above, where the second information is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the small tower, the second information may include the first sequence number. Further, the second information may also include one or more of the following: processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, second cache indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service. Correspondingly, the first information may include the first sequence number. Further, the first information may also include one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, or second cache indication information. For example, the second control plane function network element sends the second information to the second user plane function network element based on the first information, as illustrated in the following example.

[0230] In one example, the second control plane function element can be configured with a fifth sequence number, which may be the same as or different from the first sequence number. For example, the first information includes the first sequence number, and the second control plane function element can determine that the fifth sequence number is the first sequence number based on the first information, or it can obtain the fifth sequence number by offsetting the first sequence number. For ease of understanding, the following example uses the fifth sequence number being the same as the first sequence number. Correspondingly, the second information may include the first sequence number.

[0231] In another example, the second control plane function element can be configured with processing rules. These processing rules can be configured by the second control plane function element based on its own stored parameters, or they can be configured based on the first information, without limitation. For example, the first information includes a first sequence number, and the second control plane function element can configure the processing rules so that the second user plane function element uses the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the tower. As another example, the first information includes first numbering rule information, and the second control plane function element obtains the numbering rule indicated by the first numbering rule information and configures the processing rules so that the second user plane function element uses the first sequence number to encapsulate the first data sent to the tower, and uses the sequence number determined based on the first sequence number and the numbering rule indicated by the first numbering rule information to encapsulate the data other than the first data in the first service sent to the tower. Taking the numbering rule indicated by the first numbering rule information as an increment of 1 as an example, the second control plane function network element can configure the processing rule according to the first numbering rule information so that the second user plane function network element encapsulates the first data sent to the tower using the first sequence number, and encapsulates the data other than the first data in the first service sent to the tower using the sequence number determined by incrementing the first sequence number by 1. Taking the numbering rule indicated by the first numbering rule information as an increment of 2 within the range of 1 as an example, the second control plane function network element can configure the processing rule according to the first numbering rule information so that the second user plane function network element encapsulates the first data sent to the tower using the first sequence number, and encapsulates the data other than the first data in the first service sent to the tower using the sequence number determined by incrementing the first sequence number by 2 within the range of 1.

[0232] In another example, the second control plane functional network element can configure second numbering rule information. This second numbering rule information can be configured by the second control plane functional network element based on its own stored parameters, or it can be configured based on the first information; there is no restriction. For example, the first information includes first numbering rule information, and the second control plane functional network element can configure the second numbering rule information according to this first numbering rule information. Specifically, the second control plane functional network element can determine that the second numbering rule information is the first numbering rule information. It should be understood that the second numbering rule information and the first numbering rule information can be the same or different; there is no restriction.

[0233] In another example, the second control plane function network element can configure second cache indication information. This second cache indication information can be configured by the second control plane function network element based on its own stored parameters, or it can be configured based on the first information; there is no restriction. For example, the first information includes the first cache indication information, and the second user plane function network element determines that the second cache indication information is the first cache indication information. As another example, the second user plane function network element can also configure the second cache indication information according to the service requirements of the first service (such as latency requirements, reliability requirements, etc.).

[0234] In another example, the second control plane function element can configure storage extension information. This storage extension information can be configured by the second control plane function element based on its own storage parameters, or it can be configured based on the first information; there is no restriction. For example, the first information includes first cache indication information, and the second user plane function element configures the storage extension information according to this first cache indication information. As another example, the second user plane function element configures the storage extension information according to the service requirements of the first service. Specifically, when the first service is a service with high reliability requirements, the second control plane function element can configure the storage extension information to a duration of 1, thereby increasing the storage duration by 1 from the default duration.

[0235] In another example, the second control plane function element can configure the storage duration of the data for the first service. This storage duration can be configured by the second control plane function element based on its own storage parameters or based on the first information; there is no restriction. For example, the first information includes first cache indication information, which the second user plane function element can use to configure the storage duration. Alternatively, the second user plane function element can also configure the storage duration according to the service requirements of the first service. Specifically, when the first service has high reliability requirements, the second control plane function element can increase the storage duration of the data for the first service (e.g., by increasing it from the default storage duration); when the first service has high latency requirements, the second control plane function element can decrease the storage duration of the data for the first service (e.g., by decreasing it from the default storage duration).

[0236] 2. Regarding situation 2 above, where the second information is used to trigger or instruct the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element, along with the sequence number corresponding to that data, the second information may include one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, second buffer indication information, storage extension information, or the storage duration of the first service data. Correspondingly, the first information may include one or more of the following: first transmission indication information, first numbering rule information, or first buffer indication information.

[0237] Based on scenario 2, the second transmission indication information can be used to indicate the transmission of data for the first service and the corresponding sequence number. That is, the second control plane function network element can use the second information to trigger the second user plane function network element to transparently transmit the data for the first service and the corresponding sequence number, or it can explicitly indicate the second user plane function network element to transparently transmit the data for the first service and the corresponding sequence number through the second transmission indication information in the second information, without restriction.

[0238] In one example, the second control plane function network element can configure second transmission indication information. This second transmission indication information can be configured by the second control plane function network element based on its own stored parameters, or it can be configured based on first information; there is no limitation on this. For example, the first information includes first transmission indication information, which indicates the data for transmitting the first service and the sequence number corresponding to that data. The second control plane function network element configures the second transmission indication information according to the first transmission indication information. The first transmission indication information and the second transmission indication information can be the same or different; there is no limitation on this.

[0239] Specifically, please refer to the aforementioned description for the configuration process of the second numbering rule information, the second cache indication information, the storage extension information, and the storage duration; it will not be repeated here.

[0240] 3. Regarding situation 3 above, where the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element, the second information may include one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, second buffer indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service. The first information may include one or more of the following: first transmission indication information, first numbering rule information, or first buffer indication information.

[0241] Based on scenario 3, the second transmission indication information can be used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower, determined according to the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service. That is, the second control plane function network element can use the second information to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower, or it can explicitly indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower, without restriction.

[0242] In one example, the second control plane function element can configure second transmission indication information. This second transmission indication information can be configured by the second control plane function element based on its own stored parameters, or it can be configured based on first information. For example, the first information includes first transmission indication information, which indicates that the sequence number used by the second user plane function element to send the data to the small tower is determined based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service. The second control plane function element configures the second transmission indication information based on the first transmission indication information. The second transmission indication information may include an offset value.

[0243] Specifically, please refer to the foregoing description for the configuration process of the second numbering rule information, the second cache indication information, the storage extension information, and the storage duration, and will not be repeated here.

[0244] It should be noted that the second control plane function network element can configure the second information by configuring forwarding action rules or QoS enforcement rules (QER), but the embodiments of this application are not limited to this. For example, according to the first numbering rule information, the second control plane function network element can configure forwarding action rules so that the second user plane function network element uses the first sequence number to encapsulate the first data sent to the tower and uses the sequence number determined by the numbering rule indicated by the first numbering rule information to encapsulate the data other than the first data in the first service sent to the tower. As another example, the second control plane function network element can set the insert DL MBS QFI sequence number (IQFISN) in the QER to 0 to trigger the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data.

[0245] It is understood that when the second information includes multiple (two or more) pieces of information, these multiple pieces of information can be jointly indicated. For example, if the second information includes processing rules and second numbering rule information corresponding to the data of the first service, then the second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the first data sent to the tower using the first sequence number, and to encapsulate the data in the first service other than the first data sent to the tower using the sequence number determined based on the first sequence number and the numbering rule indicated by the second numbering rule information. As another example, if the second information includes second cache indication information and the storage duration of the data of the first service, then the second information can instruct the second user plane function network element to store the data of the first service within the storage duration indicated by the storage duration. Yet another example, if the second information includes second transmission indication information and second numbering rule information, and the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service, then the second information can instruct the second user plane function network element to send the sequence number of the data to the tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service and the numbering rule indicated by the second numbering rule information.

[0246] The above Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first control plane function network element can be located in the first core network or shared by the first core network and the second core network, offering flexible implementation options. This first control plane function network element sends the address information of the second user plane function network element located in the second core network to the first user plane function network element located in the first core network, and triggers the second control plane function network element located in the second core network to send second information to the second user plane function network element located in the second core network, or directly to the second user plane function network element located in the second core network. This allows the first service data of the first core network to be transmitted to the terminal device either through the first core network or, based on the address information and second information of the second user plane function network element, through the second core network, thereby improving the transmission reliability of the first service data and ensuring the continuity of the first service.

[0247] It should be noted that, for the three scenarios of the second information mentioned above, the method may also include the transmission process of the first service data between the first user plane functional network element, the second user plane functional network element, and the small tower. For ease of understanding, the following example uses the first service data as the second data, and the sequence number used by the first user plane functional network element to send the second data as the third sequence number, and combines these examples... Figure 4a , Figure 4b as well as Figure 4c Let me introduce it.

[0248] like Figure 4a As shown, for situation 1 above, in Figure 4Based on the illustrated embodiment, the above method further includes steps S405 to S407.

[0249] S405: The first user plane function element sends the second data of the first service to the second user plane function element according to the address information of the second user plane function element.

[0250] Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives the second data of the first service from the first user plane function network element.

[0251] Specifically, the first user plane function network element can transmit data for the first service. For example, the first user plane function network element can transmit the data for the first service to the second user plane function network element based on the address information of the second user plane function network element, and the first user plane function network element can transmit the data for the first service and the corresponding sequence number to the tower. Figure 4a (Not shown). Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives data from the first user plane function network element for the first service, and the tower receives the data from the first user plane function network element for the first service and the sequence number corresponding to that data.

[0252] It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not restrict the execution order between the first user plane function network element sending the data of the first service to the second user plane function network element and sending the data and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the tower.

[0253] Furthermore, the data for the first service can come from the data provider. For example, the data provider sends the data for the first service to the first user plane function network element, and the first user plane function network element receives the data for the first service from the data provider, without restriction.

[0254] Specifically, the process of the first user plane function network element sending the first service data to the second user plane function network element based on the address information of the second user plane function network element may include: the first user plane function network element sending the first service data and the corresponding sequence number of the data to the second user plane function network element based on the address information of the second user plane function network element. Correspondingly, the second user plane function network element receives the first service data and the corresponding sequence number from the first user plane function network element.

[0255] Taking the data of the first service as the second data, and the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the second data as the third sequence number, as an example, the first user plane function network element sends the second data to the second user plane function network element according to the address information of the second user plane function network element, and also sends the second data and the third sequence number to the tower. Correspondingly, the second user plane function network element receives the second data from the first user plane function network element, and the tower receives the second data and the third sequence number from the first user plane function network element. Optionally, the first user plane function network element also sends the third sequence number to the second user plane function network element.

[0256] For example, the first user plane function network element can use the third sequence number to send data packet 1, such as sending data packet 1 to the tower and sending data packet 1 to the second user plane function network element, wherein the second data is encapsulated in the payload of data packet 1 and the third sequence number is encapsulated in the header of data packet 1.

[0257] The third sequence number can be generated by the first user plane function network element based on its stored parameters. For example, the first user plane function network element can determine the third sequence number according to a numbering rule. Alternatively, the third sequence number can be generated by the first user plane function network element based on the first sequence number. For example, if the second data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time (i.e., the second data is the aforementioned first data), the first user plane function network element determines the third sequence number to be the first sequence number. As another example, if the second data is not the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time (i.e., the second data is not the aforementioned first data), the first user plane function network element can determine the third sequence number based on the first sequence number and the numbering rule.

[0258] The numbering rule can be a default numbering rule or the numbering rule indicated by the first numbering rule information; there is no restriction. The first sequence number can be generated by the first user plane function network element based on its own stored parameters, or it can come from the first control plane function network element. For example, the first control plane function network element sends the first sequence number to the first user plane function network element, and correspondingly, the first user plane function network element receives the first sequence number from the first control plane function network element; there is no restriction. Please refer to the foregoing description for the first sequence number; it will not be repeated here.

[0259] S406: The second user plane function network element determines the second sequence number based on the second information.

[0260] The second information is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the small tower.

[0261] The second sequence number is the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the second data to the small tower.

[0262] The second information may include the first serial number. Further, the second information may also include one or more of the following: the processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second numbering rule information, second cache indication information, storage extension information, or the storage duration of the data of the first service. For a detailed description of the second information, please refer to the relevant content in the aforementioned case 1, which will not be repeated here.

[0263] In S406, the second user plane function network element determines the second sequence number based on the second information. For details, please refer to the following example.

[0264] In one example, the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on the first sequence number. The first sequence number can be a sequence number stored locally by the second user plane function network element, such as storing the sequence number corresponding to the first data packet carrying the first service data received; or the first sequence number can be provided by the second control plane function network element, such as the second information including the first sequence number. For example, when the second data is the first service data first sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element (i.e., the second data is the aforementioned first data), the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number as the first sequence number. As another example, when the second data is not the first service data first sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element (i.e., the second data is not the aforementioned first data), the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on the first sequence number and encoding rules (such as the default encoding rules or the encoding rules indicated by the second encoding rule information). The second user plane function network element can determine whether the second data is the first service data first sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element based on filtering information, etc. The filtering information is used by the second user plane function network element to receive (or identify) the data of the first service, such as packet filter information (including IP address and port number, or including IP 5-tuple information, etc.), and is not restricted;

[0265] In another example, the second information includes the processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service. The second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on these processing rules. For example, these processing rules are used by the second user plane function network element to send the second data to the small tower using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number. Please refer to S404 for details, which will not be repeated here. The first sequence number can be included in the second information, the processing rules, or a sequence number stored locally by the second user plane function network element. For example, when the second data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number as the first sequence number in response to the processing rules. When the second data is not the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, the second user plane function network element determines the second sequence number according to the first sequence number in response to the processing rules, such as determining the second sequence number based on the first sequence number and an encoding rule (such as the default encoding rule or the encoding rule indicated by the second encoding rule information).

[0266] In another example, the second information includes second numbering rule information, and the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on the second encoding rule information and the first sequence number. Specifically, the second user plane function network element can determine the encoding rule based on the second encoding rule information, and determine the second sequence number based on the encoding rule and the first sequence number. The first sequence number can be included in the second information or is a sequence number stored locally by the second user plane function network element.

[0267] For example, the encoding rule is that the sequence number increases by a step size of 1. The first user plane function network element sends first data and a first sequence number to the second user plane function network element, and also sends second data and a third sequence number to the second user plane function network element. The first data and the first sequence number are carried in the first data packet corresponding to the first service, and the second data and the third sequence number are carried in the i-th data packet corresponding to the first service, where i is an integer greater than 1. Then, the second user plane function network element determines the second sequence number according to the first sequence number and the encoding rule. This second sequence number can satisfy [S1+nL], where S1 is the first sequence number, L is the step size of 1, and n is (i-1).

[0268] S407: The second user plane function network element uses the second sequence number to send the second data to the small tower.

[0269] Accordingly, the small tower receives the second data sent by the second user plane function network element using the second sequence number.

[0270] For example, the second user plane function network element uses the second sequence number to encapsulate the second data. The header of the encapsulated data packet includes the second sequence number, the payload of the data packet includes the second data, and the data packet is sent to the small tower.

[0271] like Figure 4b As shown, for situation 2 above, in Figure 4 Based on the illustrated embodiment, the above method further includes S408 and S409.

[0272] S408: The first user plane function network element sends the second data of the first service and the third sequence number corresponding to the second data to the second user plane function network element according to the address information of the second user plane function network element.

[0273] Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives the second data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the third sequence number corresponding to the second data.

[0274] The specific implementation process of S408 can be found in S405, and will not be repeated here.

[0275] S409: The second user plane function network element sends the second data to the small tower using the third sequence number based on the second information.

[0276] Accordingly, the small tower receives the second data sent by the second user plane function network element using the third sequence number.

[0277] The second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number used by the data.

[0278] The second information includes one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second cache indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service.

[0279] The second transmission indication information can be used to indicate the data to be transmitted for the first service and the sequence number corresponding to that data. For a detailed description of the second information, please refer to the relevant content in scenario 2 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0280] Specifically, in response to the second information, the second user plane function network element transmits the second data and the third sequence number to the tower, that is, it sends the second data and the third sequence number to the tower using the third sequence number. Further, the second information includes second transmission indication information, which indicates the data for transmitting the first service and the corresponding sequence number. Based on the second transmission indication information, the second user plane function network element sends the second data and the third sequence number to the tower using the third sequence number.

[0281] like Figure 4c As shown, regarding situation 3 above, in Figure 4 Based on the illustrated embodiment, the above method further includes steps S410 to S412.

[0282] S410: The first user plane function network element sends the second data of the first service and the third sequence number corresponding to the second data to the second user plane function network element according to the address information of the second user plane function network element.

[0283] Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives the second data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the third sequence number corresponding to the second data.

[0284] The specific implementation process of S410 can be found in S405, and will not be repeated here.

[0285] S411: The second user plane function network element determines the second sequence number based on the second information and the third sequence number.

[0286] The second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element.

[0287] The second information may include one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second buffer indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data from the first service. The second transmission indication information can be used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower, based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service. For a detailed description of the second information, please refer to the relevant content in case 3 above, which will not be repeated here.

[0288] In S411, the second user plane function network element determines the second sequence number based on the second information and the third sequence number. For details, please refer to the following example.

[0289] In one example, the second information includes second transmission indication information, which indicates the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service. In response to the second transmission indication information, the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on the third sequence number. For example, in response to the second transmission indication information, the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number as the third sequence number. As another example, the second transmission indication information includes an offset value, and the second user plane function network element can offset the third sequence number based on this offset value to obtain the second sequence number. Yet another example, in response to the second transmission indication information, the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on a default encoding rule and the third sequence number.

[0290] In another example, the second information includes second encoding rule information. Therefore, the second user plane function network element can determine the second sequence number based on the third sequence number and the second encoding rule information. Specifically, the second user plane function network element can determine the encoding rule based on the second encoding rule information, and determine the second sequence number based on the encoding rule and the third sequence number. For the specific implementation process, please refer to the relevant content on the second user plane function network element determining the second sequence number based on the numbering rule and the first sequence number; it will not be repeated here.

[0291] S412: The second user plane function network element uses the second sequence number to send the second data to the small tower.

[0292] Accordingly, the small tower receives the second data sent by the second user plane function network element using the second sequence number.

[0293] For example, the second user plane function network element uses a second sequence number to encapsulate second data and sends the encapsulated data packet to the small tower. The second sequence number is encapsulated in the packet header, and the second data is encapsulated in the packet payload.

[0294] For example, denoting the second data as data 1, the first sequence number as sequence number 0, the third sequence number as sequence number 1, and the second sequence number as sequence number 0, the first user plane function network element sends data packet 1 to the second user plane function network element based on the address information of the second user plane function network element. Data 1 is encapsulated in the payload of data packet 1, and sequence number 1 is encapsulated in the header of data packet 1. In the above... Figure 4a In the illustrated embodiment, after receiving data packet 1, the second user plane function network element parses it to obtain data 1, determines sequence number 2 based on sequence number 0, encapsulates data packet 1 and sequence number 2 to obtain data packet 2, and sends data packet 2 to the small tower. In the above... Figure 4b In the illustrated embodiment, after the second user plane function network element receives data packet 1, it does not process data packet 1 and sequence number 1, nor does it send data packet 1 and sequence number 1 to the small tower. In the above... Figure 4c In the embodiment shown, after the second user plane function network element receives data packet 1, it parses it to obtain data 1 and sequence number 1, determines sequence number 2 based on sequence number 1, encapsulates data packet 1 and sequence number 2 to obtain data packet 2, and sends data packet 2 to the small tower.

[0295] In the above Figures 4a to 4cIn the illustrated embodiment, the second user plane function network element located in the second core network can determine the sequence number used to send data of the first service to the first core network based on the second information, enabling the first and second core networks to reach a consensus on the understanding of the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service. Furthermore, there are multiple ways to implement the second information, and correspondingly, there are also multiple ways for the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used to send data of the first service to the first core network based on the second information, resulting in flexible and highly adaptable implementation methods.

[0296] Furthermore, in Figures 4a to 4c Based on any of the methods shown, the above methods may further include: a second user plane function network element caching the data of the first service.

[0297] Specifically, the data of the first service cached by the second user plane function network element can be used to subsequently send the cached first service data to the small towers of interest. Since the second user plane function network element may serve multiple small towers, sending the cached first service data to the small towers of interest by the second user plane function network element can reduce signaling overhead and save network resources compared to sending the first service data to multiple small towers it serves.

[0298] Specifically, the second user plane function network element can proactively cache the data of the first service, or it can cache the data of the first service based on second information, without restriction. The second information may include one or more of the following: second cache indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service. For example, if the second information includes second cache indication information, the second user plane function network element caches the data of the first service based on this second cache indication information. Another example is if the second information includes the storage duration corresponding to the data of the first service, the second user plane function network element caches the data of the first service based on this storage duration, and when the cache duration of the data of the first service in the second user plane function network element is equal to the duration indicated by the storage duration, the second user plane function network element can release (or delete, or discard) the data of the first service. For example, the second information includes second cache indication information and the storage duration corresponding to the data of the first service. The second user plane function network element caches the data of the first service according to the second cache indication information. When the cache duration of the data of the first service in the second user plane function network element is equal to the storage duration indicated by the second cache indication information, the second user plane function network element can release (or delete, or discard) the data of the first service. As another example, the second information includes storage extension information. The second user plane function network element caches the data of the first service according to the storage extension information and increases the storage duration indicated by the storage extension information on top of the default storage duration. As yet another example, the second information includes both second cache indication information and storage extension information. The second user plane function network element caches the data of the first service according to the second cache indication information and extends the storage duration of the data of the first service on top of the default storage duration according to the storage extension information.

[0299] The data of the first service cached by the second user plane function network element can be replaced with the data of the first service cached by the second user plane function network element and the corresponding sequence number of the data.

[0300] It should be noted that after receiving the data of the first service, the second user plane function network element can first cache the data of the first service and then send the data to the small towers of interest; it can also send the data of the first service to the small towers of interest without caching the data; or it can cache the data of the first service while sending the data to the small towers of interest, without any restrictions.

[0301] It should be pointed out that, in Figures 4a to 4cIn any of the embodiments shown, data transmission between the first user plane function network element and the second user plane function network element may be implemented without passing through other network elements, or it may be implemented through other network elements. These other network elements can be PLMN inter-public land mobile network user plane security (IPUPS). For example, the first user plane function network element sends the data of the first service to the IPUPS based on the address information of the second user plane function network element; the IPUPS receives the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element, performs authentication or flow control operations on it, and then sends the data of the first service to the second user plane function network element; the second user plane function element receives the data of the first service from the IPUPS.

[0302] It should be pointed out that, in Figures 4a to 4c In any of the embodiments shown, after receiving the data of the first service, the tower can broadcast the data of the first service within its signal coverage area; correspondingly, UEs located within the signal coverage area of ​​the tower can receive the data of the first service. Alternatively, after receiving the data of the first service, the tower can transmit the data of the first service in the cell (or area) corresponding to the first service; correspondingly, UEs located in the cell (or area) corresponding to the first service can receive the data of the first service. In the embodiments of this application, the UE may successfully receive the data of the first service broadcast by the tower, or it may fail to receive it. For example, if the UE moves to an area with weak tower signal strength or experiences network congestion, the UE may fail to receive the data of the first service broadcast by the tower.

[0303] Furthermore, such as Figure 4d As shown, in Figures 4a to 4c Based on any of the methods shown, the above methods may further include S413 to S415.

[0304] S413: The second control plane network element sends a notification message to the small tower.

[0305] Accordingly, the small tower receives notification messages from the second control plane functional network elements.

[0306] The notification message can be used to trigger (or instruct) the caching of data for the first service. Furthermore, the notification message can also be used to trigger the caching of the sequence number corresponding to the data for the first service; that is, the notification message is used to trigger the caching of the data for the first service and the sequence number corresponding to that data. Figure 4d (Taking the second data of the first business as an example).

[0307] Specifically, the notification message can be a single information element or implemented through information; there is no restriction. The second control plane function network element can send the notification message to the small tower during the establishment of the first multicast session, or it can send the notification message to the small tower after the establishment of the first multicast session; there is no restriction. The first multicast session is used by the second user plane function network element to transmit data for the first service. For example, the notification message includes identification information of the first multicast session, used to indicate that the first multicast session is used to transmit retransmitted data. Another example is that the notification message includes filtering or identification information for the first service, which can be used to indicate that the data for the first service is cached.

[0308] Optionally, the notification message may include storage extension information, or storage duration for the data of the first service, or storage extension information and storage duration for the data of the first service. Please refer to the foregoing description for storage extension information and storage duration; they will not be repeated here. Furthermore, the storage extension information configured by the second control plane function network element for the second user plane function network element may be the same as or different from the storage extension information configured by the second control plane function network element for the small tower. Similarly, the storage duration configured by the second control plane function network element for the second user plane function network element may be the same as or different from the storage duration configured by the second control plane function network element for the small tower.

[0309] It should be noted that step S413 is optional. Figure 4d The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0310] It should be understood that if the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, then the second control plane functional network element in S413 can be replaced by the first control plane functional network element.

[0311] It is worth noting that, Figure 4d The execution sequence of S413 shown is merely an example and is not limited to it. For example, the second control plane function element can send a notification message to the small tower after S404.

[0312] S414: Small tower caches the second data and the second serial number.

[0313] The small tower can cache the second data and the second sequence number for subsequent transmission of the first service data to interested UEs. The small tower can proactively cache the second data and the second sequence number, or it can cache them based on notification messages from the second control plane function network element. Further, the notification message includes the storage duration corresponding to the first service data. The small tower caches the second data and the second sequence number according to this storage duration, and when the cache duration of the second data and the second sequence number in the small tower equals the duration indicated by the storage duration, the small tower can release (or delete, or discard) the second data and the second sequence number. For example, the notification message includes storage extension information. The small tower caches the second data and the second sequence number according to this storage extension information, and adds the duration indicated by the storage extension information to the default storage duration. Interested UEs can be UEs that require the first service data, UEs that initiate the establishment of the first multicast session, or UEs that request to obtain the first service data; there are no restrictions.

[0314] S415: The small tower sends the second data to the UE.

[0315] Accordingly, the UE receives the second data from the small tower.

[0316] S415 is an optional step. Figure 4d The dashed line indicates this.

[0317] Specifically, in S415, the small tower can proactively send second data to the UE, or it can send second data to the UE upon triggering by the UE. For example, the UE sends a request message to the small tower, which requests the acquisition of second data for the first service; after receiving the request message, the small tower sends the second data to the UE. The request message may include a fourth sequence number. After receiving the request message, the small tower can send the second data corresponding to the second sequence number stored within itself to the terminal device based on the fourth sequence number. This fourth sequence number and the second sequence number can be the same or different. For example, there may be a correspondence between the fourth sequence number and the second sequence number. Another example is that the second sequence number is obtained by offsetting the fourth sequence number. For instance, the small tower obtains the second sequence number by performing sequence number matching based on the fourth sequence number, reads the data of the first service corresponding to the second sequence number as the second data, and sends the second data to the UE.

[0318] It should be noted that after receiving the data of the first service, the small tower can first cache the data of the first service and then send the data to the interested UE; it can also send the data of the first service to the interested UE without caching the data of the first service; or it can cache the data of the first service and send the data to the interested UE at the same time, without any restrictions.

[0319] At this point, the UE receives the first service data from the first core network of the small tower.

[0320] In the above Figure 4d In the illustrated embodiment, the UE can receive data of the first service provided by the first core network through the small tower. This can reduce the problem of data loss caused by the UE failing to receive the data of the first service through the large tower, improve the transmission reliability of the data of the first service, and thus ensure the transmission continuity of the data of the first service.

[0321] Optionally, in the above Figure 4 , Figures 4a to 4d Based on any of the methods shown, the above methods may further include: the first control plane function element obtaining the address information of the second user plane function element.

[0322] Specifically, the first control plane function network element can obtain the address information of the second user plane function network element in the following three ways.

[0323] Method 1: The second control plane functional network element sends the address information to the first control plane functional network element, and the first control plane functional network element receives the address information.

[0324] Specifically, assuming the first control plane function network element is located in the first core network, the first control plane function network element can receive the address information from the second control plane function network element. For example, the second control plane function network element can actively send the address information to the first control plane function network element; or, the second control plane function network element can send the address information to the first control plane function network element when triggered by the first control plane function network element. For example, the first control plane function network element can send a first message to the second control plane function network element, and the second control plane function network element responds to the first message by sending a response message to the first control plane function network element, the response message of the first message including the address information.

[0325] The first message can be used to trigger the second control plane function network element to send the address information to the first control plane function network element; or, the first message can also be used to request the establishment of a multicast session for the first service, without limitation.

[0326] For example, the first message can be a multicast session creation request (Nmbsmf_MBSSession_Createrequest) message or a multicast session coordination request (Nmbsmf_MBSSession_Coordination request) message. In this embodiment of the application, the name of the first message is not limited.

[0327] Optionally, the first message may include one or more of the following: identification information of the data of the first service, filtering information of the data of the first service, identification information of the first session, or identification information of the first tunnel.

[0328] The identification information of the data of the first service can be used to identify the data of the first service. For example, the identification information is an IP multicast address, which can be used to transmit the data of the first service between the first core network and the second core network.

[0329] The filtering information of the first service data can be used by the second user plane function network element to receive (or identify) the first service data, such as packet filter information, which may include IP address and port number, or IP 5-tuple information, etc.

[0330] The identification information for the first session can be used to identify the first session, such as a Temporary Mobile Group Identity (TMGI) or a Source Specific Multicast Address (SSM). The first session, for example, is a broadcast session and can be used by the first user plane function network element to transmit data for the first service. For instance, the first session is used by the first user plane function network element to send data for the first service to a large tower. Furthermore, the first session can also be used to send data for the first service to a second user plane function network element.

[0331] The identification information of the first tunnel can be used to identify the first tunnel, such as the common-tunnel endpoint identification (C-TEID). The first tunnel can be a tunnel between the second user plane function network element and the first user plane function network element.

[0332] The response message of the first message can be used to indicate that the multicast session has been established. For example, it can be a multicast session establishment response message or a multicast session coordination response message. The name of the response message of the first message is not limited in this embodiment.

[0333] Method 2: The first control plane function element receives the address information from the second user plane function element.

[0334] Assuming the first control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, the first control plane function network element can receive address information from the second user plane function network element. For example, the second user plane function network element can actively send the address information to the first control plane function network element; or, it can send the address information to the first control plane function network element when triggered by the first control plane function network element. For example, the first control plane function network element can send a second message to the second user plane function network element. In response to the second message, the second user plane function network element sends a response message of the second message to the first control plane function network element, and the response message of the second message includes the address information.

[0335] The second message can be used to configure the first multicast session, which is used by the second user plane function network element to transmit data of the first service. This second message can be, for example, a configuration request message, a multicast user plane configuration message, an N4mb session establishment request message, or a packet forwarding control protocol (PFCP) session establishment request message. This embodiment of the application does not limit the name of the second message.

[0336] Optionally, the second message may include one or more of the following: identification information of the first multicast session, filtering information of the data of the first service, or identification information of the first tunnel.

[0337] The identification information of the first multicast session can be used to identify the first multicast session, such as TMGI or SSM. This identification information can be the same as or different from the identification information of the first session. The filtering information for the first service data and the identification information for the first tunnel are described above and will not be repeated here.

[0338] The response message of the second message can be used to indicate that the configuration of the first multicast session is complete. The response message of the second message can be, for example, a configuration response message, a multicast user plane response message, an N4mb session establishment response message, or a PFCP session establishment response message. This embodiment of the application does not limit the name of the response message of the second message.

[0339] The identification information for the first tunnel can be found in the aforementioned description and will not be repeated here.

[0340] Method 3: The first control plane functional network element obtains the address information from UDM or UDR, etc.

[0341] Assuming the first control plane function element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, this first control plane function element can obtain the address information of the second user plane function element from a UDM or UDR. For example, the first control plane function element obtains the address information of the second user plane function element by interacting with the UDM or UDR.

[0342] Optionally, in Figure 4 , Figures 4a to 4d Based on any of the methods shown, the above methods may further include: the second control plane function element obtaining the address information of the second user plane function element.

[0343] For example, the second control plane function network element can receive the address information from the second user plane function network element; or, the second control plane function network element can also obtain the address information of the second user plane function network element from UDM or UDR, etc.; or, the second control plane function network element can also obtain the address information of the second user plane function network element locally. The specific implementation method of the second control plane function network element obtaining the address information of the second user plane function network element is not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0344] The second user plane function network element can proactively send the address information to the second control plane function network element; alternatively, it can send the address information to the second control plane function network element upon being triggered by it. For example, the second control plane function network element can send a second message to the second user plane function network element; in response to the second message, the second user plane function network element can send a response message to the second control plane function network element, which includes the address information. For example, after receiving the first message, the second control plane function network element can send the second message to the second user plane function network element. The description of this second message is as described above and will not be repeated here.

[0345] It is worth noting that the aforementioned first information can be carried in the first message, but is not restricted to this. Similarly, the aforementioned second information can be carried in the second message, but is not restricted to this.

[0346] In the above method, the first control plane function network element can obtain the address information of the second user plane function network element located in the second core network through any of the methods described in Method 1, Method 2 and Method 3, so that the first user plane function network element located in the first core network can transmit the first service data of the first core network to the second core network based on the address information, which is flexible in implementation.

[0347] As mentioned above, the first user plane function network element sends data for the first service to the second user plane function network element based on the address information of the second user plane function network element. In one possible implementation, the second user plane function network element can receive the data for the first service from the first user plane function network element according to a second message. For example, the second message includes filtering information for the data of the first service, and the second user plane function network element can receive the data for the first service according to the filtering information. Another example is that the second message includes identification information for the first tunnel, and the second user plane function network element can receive the data for the first service through the first tunnel. Yet another example is that the second message includes both filtering information for the data of the first service and identification information for the first tunnel, and the second user plane function network element can receive the data for the first service through the first tunnel according to the filtering information.

[0348] Optionally, in Figure 4 , Figures 4a to 4d Based on any of the methods shown, the above methods may further include: the data provider providing a first serial number. The description of the first serial number is as described above and will not be repeated here. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The illustrated embodiments are described below.

[0349] Figure 5 This illustration shows a flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method takes an example where the first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network. Figure 5 As shown, the method may include the following steps.

[0350] S501: The data provider determines the first sequence number corresponding to the first data of the first service.

[0351] For details regarding the data provider and the first serial number, please refer to the relevant content in the aforementioned embodiments; further details will not be repeated here.

[0352] S502: The first control plane function element in the data provision direction sends the first sequence number.

[0353] Accordingly, the first control plane functional network element receives the first sequence number from the data provider.

[0354] For example, the data provider may send a first sequence number to the first control plane function network element during the establishment of the first session. This embodiment does not limit the triggering conditions for the data provider to send the first sequence number to the first control plane function network element. The first session can refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0355] S503: The first control plane function element sends the first sequence number to the first user plane function element.

[0356] Accordingly, the first user plane function network element receives the first sequence number from the first control plane function network element.

[0357] S504: Data providing direction, second control plane function network element sends first sequence number.

[0358] Accordingly, the second control plane function element receives the first sequence number from the data provider.

[0359] For example, the data provider may send a first sequence number to the second control plane function network element during the establishment of the first multicast session. In this embodiment of the application, the triggering condition for the data provider to send the first sequence number to the second control plane function network element is not limited.

[0360] S505: The second control plane function element sends the first sequence number to the second user plane function element.

[0361] Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives the first sequence number from the second control plane function network element.

[0362] It should be understood that, Figure 5 The execution order of the steps shown is merely an example and is not limited thereto. For example, the data provider may first send the first sequence to the first control plane function element and then send the first sequence to the second control plane function element; or, the data provider may first send the first sequence to the second control plane function element and then send the first sequence to the first control plane function element; or, the data provider may send the first sequence to both the first and second control plane function elements simultaneously.

[0363] Figure 6 This illustration shows a flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method takes as an example that the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network. Figure 6 As shown, the method may include the following steps.

[0364] S601: The data provider determines the first sequence number corresponding to the first data of the first service.

[0365] For details regarding the data provider and the first serial number, please refer to the relevant content in the aforementioned embodiments; further details will not be repeated here.

[0366] S602: The first control plane function element in the data provision direction sends the first sequence number.

[0367] Accordingly, the first control plane functional network element receives the first sequence number from the data provider.

[0368] For example, the data provider may send a first sequence number to the first control plane function network element during the establishment of the first session. This embodiment does not limit the triggering conditions for the data provider to send the first sequence number to the first control plane function network element. The first session can refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0369] S603: The first control plane function element sends the first sequence number to the first user plane function element.

[0370] Accordingly, the first user plane function network element receives the first sequence number from the first control plane function network element.

[0371] S604: The first control plane function element sends the first sequence number to the second user plane function element.

[0372] Accordingly, the second user plane function network element receives the first sequence number from the first control plane function network element.

[0373] It should be understood that, Figure 6 The execution order of the steps shown is merely an example and is not limited thereto. For example, the first control plane function network element may first send the first sequence to the first user plane function network element, and then send the first sequence to the second user plane function network element; or, the first control plane function network element may first send the first sequence to the second user plane function network element, and then send the first sequence to the first user plane function network element; the first control plane function network element may also send the first sequence to both the first user plane function network element and the second user plane function network element simultaneously.

[0374] In the above Figure 5 and Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element in the first core network to send the first data and the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element in the second core network to send the first data are both provided by the data provider, which enables the two to reach a consensus on the understanding of the sequence number.

[0375] As mentioned above, the first control plane functional network element can be located in the first core network, which can be the BCcore, and the second control plane functional network element is located in the second core network, which can be the 5G core. Based on this, embodiments of this application provide a communication architecture 700. Figure 7 As shown, this communication architecture 700 includes a BC core, a 5G core, large towers, small towers, and terminal equipment. The network elements in the BC core can be divided into user plane function network elements and control plane function network elements. Figure 7The control plane function network element in the example includes MB-SMF1, and the user plane function network element includes MB-UPF1. For descriptions of 5G cores, large towers, small towers, and terminal equipment, please refer to the preceding descriptions; they will not be repeated here. Figure 7 Taking the 5G core, including MB-SMF2 and MB-UPF2, as an example. For the descriptions of MB-SMF1 and MB-SMF2, please refer to the aforementioned content on MB-SMF; for the descriptions of MB-UPF1 and MB-UPF2, please refer to the aforementioned content on MB-UPF. They will not be repeated here.

[0376] In one possible implementation, the communication architecture 700 may also include a data provider. Figure 7 The data provider is indicated by a dashed line. This data provider can provide broadcast service data to terminal devices via the BC core and large towers, and / or provide mobile communication data to terminal devices via the 5G core and small towers. This data provider can be, for example, an AF / AS, an MBSTF, or an MBSF, etc. For descriptions of AF / AS, MBSTF, and MBSF, please refer to the foregoing content; they will not be repeated here. Furthermore, this data provider can be located in the BC core, in the 5G core, or neither in the BC core nor in the 5G core. It should be understood that this application does not limit the deployment and implementation form of the data provider (such as a server, cloud server, or server cluster).

[0377] It should be understood that, Figure 7 The BC core shown may also involve other network elements, which are not limited in this embodiment. For example, the control plane function network elements of the BC core may also include AMF, BM-SC control plane functions, etc. Similarly, Figure 7 The 5G core shown may also involve other network elements, such as Figure 1 or Figure 2 As shown, we will not go into too much detail here.

[0378] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. This method uses a first control plane functional network element as... Figure 7 MB-SMF1, the second control plane functional network element is Figure 7 In MB-SMF2, the first user plane functional network element is... Figure 7 MB-UPF1, the second user plane function network element is Figure 7 Take MB-UPF2 as an example. Figure 8 As shown, the method may include the following steps.

[0379] S801: The data provider establishes the first session.

[0380] This first session, for example, is a broadcast session, which can be used by MB-UPF1 to send data for the first service to the tower. For example, this first session is used by MB-UPF1 to send data for the first service to both the tower and MB-UPF2. Specifically, the data provider may request to establish the first session, and the process of establishing the first session is not limited in this embodiment.

[0381] The data provider can refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0382] After the first session is successfully established, the data provider can send the data for the first service to the tower via MB-UPF1. The UE can receive the data for the first service broadcast by the tower within its coverage area. In other words, the transmission path for the data of the first service can be: data provider - MB - UPF1 - tower - UE.

[0383] S802: MB-SMF1 sends the first message to MB-SMF2.

[0384] Accordingly, MB-SMF2 receives the first message from MB-SMF1.

[0385] In this case, step S802 can be replaced by: MB-SMF1 sending first information to MB-SMF2, and correspondingly, MB-SMF2 receiving the first information from MB-SMF1; or, MB-SMF1 sending a first message and first information to MB-SMF2, and correspondingly, MB-SMF2 receiving the first message and first information from MB-SMF1; or, the data provider sending first information to MB-SMF2, and correspondingly, MB-SMF2 receiving the first information from the data provider.

[0386] It should be pointed out that, Figure 8 The following description uses the example of MB-SMF1 sending a first message to MB-SMF2, which includes first information.

[0387] The first message can be used to trigger MB-SMF2 to send the address information of MB-UPF2 to MB-SMF1; alternatively, the first message can also be used to request the establishment of a multicast session for the first service, without limitation. For example, the first message can be a multicast session establishment request message or a multicast session coordination request message, etc.

[0388] The first message may include first information. This first information may be a single information element or implemented through specific information. This first information can be used by MB-SMF2 to send second information to MB-UPF2. Specifically, the first information may include one or more of the following: a first sequence number, first transmission indication information, first numbering rule information, or first buffer indication information. For a description of this first information, please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments; it will not be repeated here.

[0389] Optionally, the first message may also include one or more of the following information: identification information of the data of the first service, filtering information of the data of the first service, identification information of the first broadcast session, or identification information of the first tunnel. For a detailed description, please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0390] S803: MB-SMF2 sends a second message to MB-UPF2.

[0391] Accordingly, MB-UPF2 receives the second message from MB-SMF2.

[0392] Alternatively, step S803 can be replaced by: MB-SMF2 sending a second message to MB-UPF2, and correspondingly, MB-UPF2 receiving the second message from MB-SMF2; or, MB-SMF2 sending a second message and a second message to MB-UPF2, and correspondingly, MB-UPF2 receiving the second message and the second message from MB-SMF2.

[0393] It should be pointed out that, Figure 8 The following description uses the example of MB-SMF2 sending a second message to MB-UPF2, which includes second information.

[0394] The second message can be used to configure the first multicast session, which is used for MB-UPF2 to transmit data for the first service. This second message can be, for example, a configuration request message, a multicast user plane configuration message, an N4mb session establishment request message, or a packet forwarding control protocol session establishment request message, etc.

[0395] The second message may include second information. This second information may be a single information element or implemented through specific information. The second information may be used to determine the sequence number used by MB-UPF2 to send data from the first service of MB-UPF1 to the tower; or, the second information may be used to trigger MB-UPF2 to send data from the first service of MB-UPF1 and the corresponding sequence number; or, the second information may be used to trigger MB-UPF2 to determine the sequence number used by MB-UPF2 to send the data to the tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service of MB-UPF1. Specifically, the second information may include one or more of the following: a first sequence number, processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, second buffer indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service. For a description of this second information, please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments; further details will not be repeated here.

[0396] Optionally, the second message may also include one or more of the following information: identification information of the first multicast session, filtering information of the data of the first service, or identification information of the first tunnel. Please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments for details.

[0397] S804: MB-UPF2 sends a response message to MB-SMF2 for the second message.

[0398] Accordingly, MB-SMF2 receives a response message from the second message of MB-UPF2.

[0399] The response message of the second message may include the address information of MB-UPF2.

[0400] Specifically, MB-SMF2 can receive the address information of MB-UPF2 from MB-UPF2, or it can obtain the address information of MB-UPF2 from UDM or UDR. Therefore, S804 is an optional step. Figure 8 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0401] S805: MB-SMF2 sends a response message to MB-SMF1 for the first message.

[0402] Accordingly, MB-SMF1 receives a response message from the first message of MB-SMF2.

[0403] The response message to the first message may include the address information of MB-UPF2.

[0404] S806: MB-SMF1 sends the address information of MB-UPF2 to MB-UPF1.

[0405] Accordingly, MB-UPF1 receives address information from MB-SMF1 via MB-UPF2.

[0406] For example, MB-SMF1 can send a third message to MB-UPF1, which includes the address information of MB-UPF2.

[0407] This third message can be used to trigger MB-UPF1 to send the first service data to MB-UPF2 based on the address information of MB-UPF2. Specifically, this third message can be a broadcast user plane configuration request message, etc.

[0408] Furthermore, MB-UPF1 can send a response message of the third message to MB-SMF1; correspondingly, MB-SMF1 receives a response message of the third message from MB-UPF1. Figure 8 (Not shown in the image). The response message to this third message can be used to indicate that MB-UPF1 has successfully received the third message.

[0409] S807: Data provider sends the second data of the first service to MB-UPF1.

[0410] Accordingly, MB-UPF1 receives second data from the first service provided by the data provider.

[0411] It should be pointed out that, Figure 8 The execution order of S801 is only an example and is not restrictive. For example, S801 can be executed after S802 and before S807.

[0412] S808: MB-UPF1 sends the second data.

[0413] Specifically, S808 may include: MB-UPF1 sending second data to MB-UPF2, and MB-UPF1 sending the second data to the tower.

[0414] It should be noted that S808 may include or be replaced by: MB-UPF1 sending second data and a third sequence number corresponding to the second data. For example, MB-UPF1 sends the second data and the third sequence number to the tower, and sends the second data and the third sequence number to MB-UPF2.

[0415] S809: MB-UPF2 caches the second data.

[0416] Specifically, MB-UPF2 can proactively cache the second data, or it can cache the second data based on second information. For example, the second information includes one or more of the following: second cache indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the first service's data. MB-UPF2 can cache the second data based on this second information. For the specific implementation process, please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0417] It should be noted that when MB-UPF1 in S808 sends the second data and the third sequence number to MB-UPF2, MB-UPF2 in S809 can cache the second data and the third sequence number without restriction.

[0418] S810: The tower sends the second data to the UE.

[0419] S811: The UE receives the second data from the tower.

[0420] S811 is an optional step. Figure 8 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0421] It should be noted that the UE may succeed or fail to receive the second data from the tower. For example, if the UE is located in an area with weak tower signal or network congestion, the UE may not be able to receive the tower data, resulting in the UE failing to receive the second data.

[0422] S812: The UE triggers the creation of the first multicast session.

[0423] The first multicast session can be used by MB-UPF2 to send data for the first service to the small tower. For example, the small tower receives a join request message from the UE and, in response to the join request message, triggers the establishment of the first multicast session. Specifically, the UE can send the join request message to the small tower when it fails to receive data for the first service broadcast by the large tower. The join request message may include a TMGI. After receiving the join request message, the small tower determines, based on the TMGI, that no transmission channel (i.e., the transmission channel from MB-UPF2 to the small tower) has been established for that TMGI, and then triggers the establishment of the first multicast session. This application embodiment does not limit the conditions for triggering the UE to send a join request message to the small tower.

[0424] For example, the process of the small tower responding to the UE's join request message to trigger the establishment of the first multicast session may include the following steps: Step B1, the small tower receives an N2 message from the SMF in the 5G core, the N2 message including the TMGI and the UE's session-related context information; Step B2, the small tower determines that a first condition is met and triggers the establishment of the first multicast session, the first condition including one or more of the following: the small tower needs to provide MBS service to the UE, the small tower does not store the MBS context information locally, or the small tower has not established a transmission channel for the TMGI; Step B3, the small tower selects the AMF in the 5G core and sends a message 1 including the TMGI to MB-SMF2 through the AMF, the message 1 may also include the identification information of the transmission channel, such as IP address and / or port number, the message 1 is, for example, an MBS distribution setup request transfer message; Step B4, MB-SMF2 sends a message 2 to the small tower through the AMF, the message 2 including the TMGI and the QoS information of the first multicast session (such as the QoS flow identifier, 5G QoS indicator). The message 2, for example, is an MBS distribution setup response transfer message, indicating that the first multicast session has been established. It should be understood that the embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation process for establishing the first multicast session.

[0425] It should be noted that MB-SMF2 can send a notification message to the small tower during the establishment of the first multicast session to trigger the small tower to cache the data of the first service, such as the notification message B included in the N2 message; or it can send the notification message to the small tower after the establishment of the first multicast session, without restriction. Figure 8 The following description uses MB-SMF2 sending the notification message to the small tower during the establishment of the first multicast session as an example.

[0426] It should be pointed out that, Figure 8 The execution order of S812 is only an example and is not restrictive. For example, S812 can also be executed before S811.

[0427] S813: MB-UPF2 sends second data to the small tower using the second sequence number based on the second information.

[0428] Accordingly, the small tower receives the second data sent by MB-UPF2 using the second sequence number.

[0429] MB-UPF2 can send the second data to the small tower proactively, or it can send the second data to the small tower in response to a request message from the small tower, without any restriction.

[0430] Specifically, based on different situations of the second information, there are multiple possible implementation methods for S813.

[0431] In the first implementation method, the second information is used to determine the sequence number used by MB-UPF2 to send the first service data to the small tower. MB-UPF2 determines the second sequence number based on the second information and uses the second sequence number to send the second data to the small tower (please refer to the relevant content of S406 and S407 for details, which will not be repeated here).

[0432] In the second implementation method, the second information is used to trigger MB-UPF2 to send the data of the first service and the corresponding sequence number to the small tower. MB-UPF2 sends the second data and the second sequence number to the small tower according to the second information. The second sequence number is the third sequence number (please refer to the relevant content of S409 for details, which will not be repeated here).

[0433] In the third implementation method, the second information is used to trigger MB-UPF2 to determine the sequence number used to send the data to the small tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service from MB-UPF1. In this case, MB-UPF2 determines the second sequence number based on the second information and the third sequence number, and uses the second sequence number to send the second data to the small tower (please refer to the relevant content of S411 and S412 for details, which will not be repeated here).

[0434] It should be pointed out that, Figure 8 The execution order of S813 is only an example and is not restrictive. For example, S813 can also be executed before S812 and after S808.

[0435] S814: Small tower caches the second data and the second serial number.

[0436] The small tower can actively cache the second data and the second serial number, or it can cache the second data and the second serial number based on the notification message. Please refer to S414 for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0437] S815: The UE sends a request message to the small tower.

[0438] Accordingly, the small tower receives request messages from the UE.

[0439] The request message may include a fourth sequence number, which can be used to request second data. The fourth sequence number and the second sequence number may be the same or different. For example, there may be a corresponding relationship between the fourth sequence number and the second sequence number; this is not restricted. Furthermore, the small tower may respond to the request message by sending the second data to the UE.

[0440] It should be noted that the small tower can also proactively send second data to the UE.

[0441] S815 is an optional step. Figure 8 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0442] Furthermore, S815 can be executed even if the UE fails to receive the second data in S811, without restriction.

[0443] S816: The small tower sends the second data to the UE.

[0444] Accordingly, the UE receives the second data from the small tower.

[0445] For example, after receiving the request message, the small tower can send the second data corresponding to the second serial number to the terminal device according to the fourth serial number. Please refer to the content of S415 for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0446] At this point, the UE receives the second data of the first service from the BC core of the small tower.

[0447] As mentioned above, the first control plane functional network element can be shared by a first core network and a second core network. The first core network can be a BC core, and the second core network can be a 5G core. Based on this, embodiments of this application provide yet another communication architecture 900. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the communication architecture 900 includes a BC core, a 5G core, large towers, small towers, and terminal equipment. The main difference between communication architecture 900 and communication architecture 700 is that MB-SMF1 is shared by both the BC core and the 5G core; that is, MB-SMF1 possesses the functions of MB-SMF in both the BC core and the 5G core. For the remaining network elements and modules in communication architecture 900, please refer to the relevant descriptions of communication architecture 700; they will not be described here.

[0448] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. This method uses a first control plane functional network element as... Figure 9 MB-SMF1 in the network, the first user plane functional network element is Figure 9 MB-UPF1, the second user plane function network element is Figure 9 Take MB-UPF2 as an example. Figure 10 As shown, the method may include the following steps.

[0449] in, Figure 10 S1001, S1004 to S1014 are respectively with Figure 8 S801, S806 to S816 are the same, and will not be described again. Figure 10 The illustrated embodiments and Figure 8 The difference in the implementation shown lies in the following steps:

[0450] S1002: MB-SMF1 sends a second message to MB-UPF2.

[0451] Accordingly, MB-UPF1 receives the second message from MB-SMF2.

[0452] In this case, step S1002 can be replaced by: MB-SMF1 sending a second message to MB-UPF2, and MB-UPF2 receiving the second message from MB-SMF1; or, MB-SMF1 sending a second message and a second information to MB-UPF2, and MB-UPF2 receiving the second message and the second information from MB-SMF1.

[0453] It should be pointed out that, Figure 10 The following description uses the example of MB-SMF1 sending a second message to MB-UPF2, which includes second information.

[0454] The second message can be used to configure the first multicast session, which is used for MB-UPF2 to transmit data for the first service. This second message can be, for example, a configuration request message, a multicast user plane configuration message, an N4mb session establishment request message, or a packet forwarding control protocol session establishment request message, etc.

[0455] The second message may include second information. This second information may be a single information element or implemented through specific information. The second information may be used to determine the sequence number used by MB-UPF2 to send data from the first service of MB-UPF1 to the tower; or, the second information may be used to trigger MB-UPF2 to send data from the first service of MB-UPF1 and the corresponding sequence number; or, the second information may be used to trigger MB-UPF2 to determine the sequence number used by MB-UPF2 to send the data to the tower based on the sequence number corresponding to the data from the first service of MB-UPF1. Specifically, the second information may include one or more of the following: a first sequence number, processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, second buffer indication information, storage extension information, or storage duration of the data of the first service. For a description of this second information, please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments; further details will not be repeated here.

[0456] Optionally, the second message may also include one or more of the following information: identification information of the first multicast session, filtering information of the data of the first service, or identification information of the first tunnel. Please refer to the relevant content in the foregoing embodiments for details.

[0457] S1003: MB-UPF2 sends a response message to MB-SMF1 for the second message.

[0458] Accordingly, MB-SMF1 receives a response message from the second message of MB-UPF2.

[0459] The response message of the second message may include the address information of MB-UPF2.

[0460] Specifically, MB-SMF1 can obtain the address information of MB-UPF1 by receiving the address information of MB-UPF1 from MB-UPF1, or by obtaining the address information of MB-UPF2 from UDM or UDR. Therefore, S1003 is an optional step. Figure 10 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line.

[0461] In the above Figure 8 or Figure 10 In the illustrated embodiment, the data for the first service provided by the BC core can be transmitted to the UE via either the BC core or the 5G core. Thus, when the UE fails to receive the data for the first service broadcast from the tower, it is difficult for the UE to obtain the data for the first service again via the tower due to power consumption, distance, and other factors. Figure 8 or Figure 10In the illustrated embodiment, the UE can obtain the data of the first service from the small tower and the 5G core, realizing the retransmission of the data of the first service in the BCcore, which can ensure the transmission continuity of the data of the first service and improve the transmission reliability of the data of the first service.

[0462] In this application, the methods provided in the embodiments of this application are described from the perspective of the interaction between multiple network elements, including the first control plane functional network element, the second control plane functional network element, the first user plane functional network element, the second user plane functional network element, the access network element, and the data provider. To implement the methods provided in the embodiments of this application, each of the above-mentioned network elements may include hardware structures and / or software modules, and the above functions may be implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules.

[0463] The communication device used to implement the above method in the embodiments of this application is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Therefore, the content above can be used in subsequent embodiments, and repeated content will not be described again.

[0464] Figure 11 A schematic diagram of a communication device 1100 is shown. This communication device 1100 can implement the functions or steps implemented by the first control plane function network element, the second control plane function network element, the first user plane function network element, the second user plane function network element, the access network element, or the data provider in the above-described method embodiments.

[0465] In one possible implementation, the communication device 1100 may include a processing unit 1101 and a transceiver unit 1102. The processing unit 1101 may be used to execute the steps of any network element (e.g., a first control plane function network element, a second control plane function network element, a first user plane function network element, a second user plane function network element, an access network element, or a data provider) in any of the above method embodiments; the transceiver unit 1102 may be used to receive or send related data, information, or messages.

[0466] In another possible implementation, the communication device 1100 may include a transceiver unit 1102, which may be used to perform the steps or methods of any network element (e.g., a first control plane function network element, a second control plane function network element, a first user plane function network element, a second user plane function network element, an access network element, or a data provider) in any of the above method embodiments.

[0467] It should be noted that the above-mentioned units can be set up independently, or partially or completely integrated. For example, the transceiver unit 1102 may include a transmitting unit and a receiving unit.

[0468] As an example, the communication device 1100 can implement the functions or steps implemented by the first control plane functional network element in any of the above method embodiments.

[0469] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to send address information of a second user plane function network element to a first user plane function network element. This address information can be used by the first user plane function network element to send data of a first service to the second user plane function network element. It also sends first information to a second control plane function network element or sends second information to the second user plane function network element. The first information can be used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element. The second information can be used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the access network element. The first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, and the second control plane function network element is located in a second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

[0470] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to send address information of a second user plane function network element to a first user plane function network element. This address information can be used by the first user plane function network element to send data of a first service and the corresponding sequence number of the data to the second user plane function network element; and to send first information or second information to a second control plane function network element. The first information can be used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element. The second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the corresponding sequence number of the data, or the second information can be used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data. The first user plane function network element is located in a first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in a second core network, and the second control plane function network element is located in a second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

[0471] As yet another example, the communication device 1100 can implement the functions or steps implemented by the first user plane function network element in any of the above method embodiments.

[0472] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to receive address information from a second user plane function network element of a first control plane function network element; send data of a first service to the second user plane function network element based on the address information; and send the data and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the access network element corresponding to the first user plane function network element. The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, and the second user plane function element is located in the second core network; the first core network and the second core network are different.

[0473] As yet another example, the communication device 1100 can implement the functions or steps implemented by the second control plane functional network element in any of the above method embodiments.

[0474] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to send address information of a second user plane function network element to a first control plane function network element. This address information is used by the first user plane function network element to send data for a first service to the second user plane function network element. It also receives first information from the first control plane function network element or a data provider, and sends second information to the second user plane function network element based on the first information. The second information is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data from the first user plane function network element to the access network element. The first control plane function network element and the first user plane function network element are located in a first core network, and the second control plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are located in a second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

[0475] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to send address information of a second user plane function network element to a first control plane function network element. This address information is used by the first user plane function network element to send data of a first service and the corresponding sequence number of the data to the second user plane function network element; receive first information from the first control plane function network element or a data provider; and send second information to the second user plane function network element according to the first information. The second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send data from the first user plane function network element and the corresponding sequence number of the data, or the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data to the access network element based on the corresponding sequence number of the data. The first control plane function network element and the first user plane function network element are located in the first core network, and the second control plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

[0476] As yet another example, the communication device 1100 can implement the functions or steps implemented by the second user plane function network element in any of the above method embodiments.

[0477] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to receive second information from a control plane function network element, the second information being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the access network element; and to receive second data of the first service from the first user plane function network element. Processing unit 1101 is used to determine the second sequence number based on the second information. Transceiver unit 1102 is also used to send the second data to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element using the second sequence number. Wherein, the first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network, the control plane function network element is located in the second core network or shared by the first and second core networks, and the first and second core networks are different.

[0478] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to receive second information from a control plane function network element; and to receive second data of a first service from a first user plane function network element and a third sequence number corresponding to the second data. Transceiver unit 1102 is also used to send the second data and the third sequence number to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element when the second information triggers the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the corresponding sequence number; or, processing unit 1101 is used to determine the second sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the second data to the access network element based on the second information and the third sequence number. Transceiver unit 1102 is also used to send the second data to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element using the second sequence number. Wherein, the first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network, the control plane function element is located in the second core network or shared by the first and second core networks, and the first and second core networks are different.

[0479] As another example, the communication device 1100 can implement the functions or steps implemented by the access network element (e.g., small tower) in any of the above method embodiments.

[0480] For example, transceiver unit 1102 is used to receive notification messages from control plane function network elements in the access network element. These notification messages trigger the buffering of data for the first service. It also receives second data of the first service and the corresponding second sequence number from the second user plane function network element. Processing unit 1101 is used to control the storage unit to store the second data and the second sequence number according to the notification messages. The second user plane function network element is located in the second core network; the control plane function network element is located in the second core network, or the control plane function network element is shared by the first and second core networks, but the first and second core networks are different.

[0481] As another example, the communication device 1100 may implement the functions or steps implemented by the data provider in any of the above method embodiments.

[0482] For example, processing unit 1101 is used to determine the sequence number corresponding to the first data of the first service as the first sequence number. Transceiver unit 1102 is used to send the first sequence number to the first control plane function network element, which is used by the first user plane function network element when sending the first data to the access network element and the second user plane function network element corresponding to the first user plane function network element; and to send the first sequence number to the second control plane function network element, which is used by the second user plane function network element when sending the first data to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element. The first user plane function network element and the first control plane function network element are located in the first core network, and the second user plane function network element and the second control plane function network element are located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

[0483] For example, processing unit 1101 is used to determine the sequence number corresponding to the first data of the first service as the first sequence number. Transceiver unit 1102 is used to send the first sequence number to the control plane function network element. The first sequence number is used by the first user plane function network element when sending the first data to the access network element and the second user plane function network element corresponding to the first user plane function network element. The first sequence number is also used by the second user plane function network element when sending the first data to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element. The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, and the second user plane function element is located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different, while the control plane function network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

[0484] For a more detailed description of the aforementioned processing unit 1101 and transceiver unit 1102, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figure 4 , Figures 4a to 4d , Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figure 8 ,as well as Figure 10 The relevant descriptions in any of the method embodiments are directly obtained and will not be repeated here.

[0485] like Figure 12As shown in the diagram, this application provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 1200. The communication device 1200 may include a processor 1220, used to implement or support the communication device 1200 in implementing the functions of the first control plane functional network element, the second control plane functional network element, the first user plane functional network element, the second user plane functional network element, the access network element (e.g., a small tower), or the data provider in any of the method embodiments of this application. For details, please refer to the detailed descriptions in the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated here. For example, the processor 1220 is used to read and execute program instructions through a communication interface to enable the communication device 1200 to implement the corresponding method. The processor 1220 may include one or more processors, without limitation.

[0486] Specifically, the communication device 1200 may be a first control plane functional network element or a functional module located in the first control plane functional network element, capable of implementing the function of the first control plane functional network element in any method embodiment of this application; or, the communication device 1200 may be a second control plane functional network element or a functional module located in the second control plane functional network element, capable of implementing the function of the second control plane functional network element in any method embodiment of this application; or, the communication device 1200 may be a first user plane functional network element or a functional module located in the first user plane functional network element, capable of implementing the function of the first user plane functional network element in any method embodiment of this application; or, the communication device 1200 may be a second user plane functional network element or a functional module located in the second user plane functional network element, capable of implementing the function of the second user plane functional network element in any method embodiment of this application; or, the communication device 1200 may be an access network element (e.g., a small tower) or a functional module located in the access network element, capable of implementing the function of the access network element in any method embodiment of this application; or, the communication device 1200 may be a data provider or a functional module located in the data provider, capable of implementing the function of the data provider in any method of this application.

[0487] It should be noted that the aforementioned functional modules can be implemented by hardware or by a combination of hardware and software, without restriction.

[0488] For example, the communication device 1200 can be a chip system. The chip system can be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete components, without limitation.

[0489] Optionally, the communication device 1200 may further include a memory 1230 for storing program instructions and / or data. The memory 1230 is coupled to the processor 1220. This coupling can be understood as an indirect coupling or communication connection between devices, units, or modules, and can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms, used for information exchange between devices, units, or modules. The processor 1220 may operate in conjunction with the memory 1230. The memory 1230 may include one or more memories, without limitation.

[0490] Furthermore, the processor 1220 is used to execute program instructions stored in the memory 1230 so that the communication device 1200 implements the corresponding method.

[0491] One or more of the memories in memory 1230 may be contained within the processor, or memory 1230 may exist independently, such as off-chip memory, connected via a communication bus ( Figure 12 The memory 1230 (represented by the thick line 1240) is connected to the processor 1220. The memory 1230 and the processor 1220 can also be integrated together.

[0492] Optionally, the communication device 1200 further includes a communication interface 1210. Figure 12 (Represented by dashed lines), it is used for communication with other devices via a transmission medium, so that the device in the communication device 1200 can communicate with other devices. For example, when the communication device is a first control plane function element, the other devices can be second control plane function elements or second user plane function elements, etc. The processor 1220 can use the communication interface 1210 to send and receive data.

[0493] Specifically, the communication interface 1210 can be a transceiver. In terms of hardware implementation, the transceiver can be used to implement the functions of the transceiver unit 1102 mentioned above, and the transceiver is integrated into the communication device 1200 to form the communication interface 1210.

[0494] It should be noted that the specific connection medium between the communication interface 1210, the processor 1220 and the memory 1230 is not limited in the embodiments of this application. Figure 12 The memory 1230, processor 1220, and communication interface 1210 are connected via a communication bus 1240. The connections between other components are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting. The communication bus 1240 can be divided into address bus, data bus, control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, Figure 12 The symbol is represented by a single thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one communication bus or one type of communication bus.

[0495] In the embodiments of this application, the processor 1220 may be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application may be executed by the hardware in the processor, or by a combination of hardware and software in the processor.

[0496] In this embodiment, the memory 1230 can be a non-volatile memory, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). The memory can also be any other medium used to carry or store program code in the form of instructions or data structures that can be accessed by a computer; or it can be a circuit or any other device capable of implementing storage functions for storing program instructions and / or data.

[0497] This application also provides a communication system, which may include a first control plane function network element and a first user plane function network element, or include a second control plane function network element and a second user plane function network element, or include a first control plane function network element, a first user plane function network element, a second control plane function network element and a second user plane function network element.

[0498] The first control plane functional network element, the first user plane functional network element, the second control plane functional network element, and the second user plane functional network element can all be referred to in the descriptions of the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0499] Optionally, the communication system may further include access network elements and / or data providers. The access network elements and data providers are described in the foregoing method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0500] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium including program instructions that, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods or steps of any network element (e.g., a first control plane function network element, a second control plane function network element, a first user plane function network element, a second user plane function network element, an access network element, or a data provider) in the above embodiments.

[0501] This application also provides a computer program product, including program instructions, which, when run on a computer, cause the computer to execute the methods or steps of any network element (e.g., a first control plane function network element, a second control plane function network element, a first user plane function network element, a second user plane function network element, an access network element, or a data provider) in the above embodiments.

[0502] This application provides a chip system including a processor for implementing the functions of the first control plane functional network element, the second control plane functional network element, the first user plane functional network element, the second user plane functional network element, the access network element, or the data provider in the aforementioned method (e.g., executing corresponding methods or steps). The chip system may be composed of a chip or may include a chip and other discrete devices.

[0503] Optionally, the chip system also includes a memory for storing program instructions that the processor can read and execute to implement the corresponding method.

[0504] It should be understood that in the various embodiments of this application, the order of the above-mentioned processes does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0505] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0506] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0507] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0508] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0509] In addition, 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.

[0510] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this 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.

[0511] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first control plane functional network element, the method includes: Send the address information of the second user plane function network element to the first user plane function network element. The address information is used by the first user plane function network element to send data of the first service to the second user plane function network element. Send the first information to the second control plane functional network element, or send the second information to the second user plane functional network element; Wherein, the first information is used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element, and the second information is used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the access network element. The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network, the second control plane function network element is located in the second core network, and the first core network is different from the second core network.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the first sequence number is the sequence number corresponding to the first data. Wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first information also includes one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, or first cache indication information; The first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; the first cache indication information is used to indicate the caching of the data of the first service.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The second information includes a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the first sequence number is the sequence number corresponding to the first data. Wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second information also includes one or more of the following: the processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, the second numbering rule information, or the second cache indication information; The processing rule is used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the access network element using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, which are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; and the second cache indication information is used to indicate caching the data of the first service.

6. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the first sequence number from the data provider; Send the first sequence number to the first user plane function network element.

7. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first control plane functional network element, the method includes: Send the address information of the second user plane function network element to the first user plane function network element. The address information is used by the first user plane function network element to send the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the second user plane function network element. Send the first information to the second control plane functional network element, or send the second information to the second user plane functional network element; Wherein, the first information is used by the second control plane function network element to send the second information to the second user plane function network element; the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send the data from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element according to the sequence number corresponding to the data. The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network, the second control plane function network element is located in the second core network, and the first core network is different from the second core network.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first information includes one or more of the following: first transmission indication information, first buffer indication information, or first numbering rule information; Wherein, the first transmission indication information is used to indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the first buffer indication information is used to indicate the buffering of the data of the first service; the first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element.

9. The method according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The second information includes one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, or second cache indication information; Wherein, the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the second buffer indication information is used to indicate the buffering of the data of the first service; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, the numbering rules being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first core network is a broadcast core network, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network, or the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are multicast or broadcast MB control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network, and the method further includes: Receive the address information from the second control plane functional network element.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, and the method further includes: Receive the address information from the second user plane function network element.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, 14, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network, and the method further includes: The access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element is notified to cache the data of the first service.

16. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first user plane functional network element, the method includes: Receive address information from the second user plane functional network element from the first control plane functional network element; Based on the address information, send the data of the first service to the second user plane function network element; Send the data and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the access network element corresponding to the first user plane functional network element; The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, and the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, The first core network is a broadcast core network, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network.

18. The method according to claim 16 or 17, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element is located in the first core network, or the first control plane functional network element is shared by the first core network and the second core network.

19. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that, The step of sending the data for the first service to the second user plane function network element includes: The data and the sequence number corresponding to the data are sent to the second user plane function network element.

20. The method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: The sequence number corresponding to the data is determined based on the first sequence number, where the first sequence number is the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service; or, The serial number corresponding to the data is determined according to the numbering rules.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the first sequence number from the first control plane functional network element.

22. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to second control plane functional network elements, the method includes: Send the address information of the second user plane function network element to the first control plane function network element. The address information is used by the first user plane function network element to send data of the first service to the second user plane function network element. Receive first information from the first control plane functional network element or data provider; Based on the first information, second information is sent to the second user plane function network element, the second information being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data from the first user plane function network element to the access network element; The first control plane function network element and the first user plane function network element are located in the first core network, and the second control plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first information includes a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the first sequence number is the sequence number corresponding to the first data. Wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that, The first information also includes one or more of the following: first numbering rule information, or first cache indication information; The first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; the first cache indication information is used to indicate the caching of the data of the first service.

25. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 24, characterized in that, The second information includes a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the first sequence number is the sequence number corresponding to the first data. Wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The second information also includes one or more of the following: the processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, the second numbering rule information, or the second cache indication information; The processing rule is used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the access network element using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, which are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; and the second cache indication information is used to indicate caching the data of the first service.

27. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to second control plane functional network elements, the method includes: Send the address information of the second user plane function network element to the first control plane function network element. The address information is used by the first user plane function network element to send the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data to the second user plane function network element. Receive first information from the first control plane functional network element or data provider; Based on the first information, send the second information to the second user plane function network element; Wherein, the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send the data from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element according to the sequence number corresponding to the data; The first control plane function network element and the first user plane function network element are located in the first core network, and the second control plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are located in the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The first information includes one or more of the following: first transmission indication information, first buffer indication information, or first numbering rule information; Wherein, the first transmission indication information is used to indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the first buffer indication information is used to indicate the buffering of the data of the first service; the first numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, and the numbering rules are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element.

29. The method according to claim 27 or 28, characterized in that, The second information includes one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, or second cache indication information; Wherein, the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the second buffer indication information is used to indicate the buffering of the data of the first service; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, the numbering rules being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element.

30. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 29, characterized in that, The first core network is a broadcast core network, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network.

31. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 30, characterized in that, The first control plane functional network element and the second control plane functional network element are multicast or broadcast MB control plane functional network elements, and the first user plane functional network element and the second user plane functional network element are MB user plane functional network elements.

32. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 31, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the address information from the second user plane function network element.

33. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 32, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the first information, the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element is notified to cache the data of the first service.

34. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a second user plane functional network element, the method includes: Receive second information from the control plane function network element, the second information being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element to the access network element; Receive second data from the first user plane functional network element for the first service; Based on the second information, determine the second serial number; Using the second sequence number, the second data is sent to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element; The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network, and the control plane function network element is located in the second core network or shared by the first core network and the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

35. The method according to claim 34, characterized in that, The second information includes a first sequence number, which is either the starting sequence number corresponding to the data of the first service, or the first sequence number is the sequence number corresponding to the first data. Wherein, the first data is the data of the first service sent by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element for the first time, and the sequence number corresponding to the first data is the sequence number used by the first user plane function network element to send the first data to the access network element.

36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that, The second information also includes one or more of the following: the processing rules corresponding to the data of the first service, the second numbering rule information, or the second cache indication information; The processing rule is used by the second user plane function network element to encapsulate the data of the first service sent to the access network element using the sequence number determined according to the first sequence number; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, which are used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element; and the second cache indication information is used to indicate caching the data of the first service.

37. The method according to claim 36, characterized in that, Determining the second serial number based on the second information includes: When the second data is the data of the first service sent for the first time by the first user plane function network element to the second user plane function network element, the second sequence number is determined to be the first sequence number; or... When the second information includes the processing rule, the second sequence number is determined according to the processing rule; or... When the second information includes the second numbering rule information, the numbering rule is determined according to the second numbering rule information, and the second serial number is determined according to the numbering rule and the first serial number.

38. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a second user plane functional network element, the method includes: Receive second information from control plane functional network elements; Receive second data from a first user plane functional network element and a third sequence number corresponding to the second data; When the second information is used to trigger the second user plane function network element to send data of the first service from the first user plane function network element and the sequence number corresponding to the data, the second data and the third sequence number are sent to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element; or, Based on the second information and the third sequence number, determine the second sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the second data to the access network element, and use the second sequence number to send the second data to the access network element corresponding to the second user plane function network element. The first user plane function network element is located in the first core network, the second user plane function network element is located in the second core network, and the control plane function network element is located in the second core network or shared by the first core network and the second core network. The first core network and the second core network are different.

39. The method according to claim 38, characterized in that, The second information includes one or more of the following: second transmission indication information, second numbering rule information, or second cache indication information; Wherein, the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data of the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, or to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data; the second buffer indication information is used to indicate the buffering of the data of the first service; the second numbering rule information is used to indicate or generate numbering rules, the numbering rules being used to determine the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data of the first service to the access network element.

40. The method according to claim 39, characterized in that, The step of determining the second sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the second data to the access network element based on the second information and the third sequence number includes: When the second information includes the second transmission indication information, and the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the data for sending the first service and the sequence number corresponding to the data, the second sequence number is determined to be the third sequence number based on the second transmission indication information; or, When the second information includes the second transmission indication information, and the second transmission indication information is used to indicate the sequence number used by the second user plane function network element to send the data to the access network element based on the sequence number corresponding to the data, the second sequence number is determined based on the third sequence number; or, When the second information includes the second numbering rule information, the numbering rule is determined according to the second numbering rule information, and the second serial number is determined according to the numbering rule and the third serial number.

41. The method according to any one of claims 34 to 40, characterized in that, The first core network is a broadcast core network, and the second core network is a mobile communication core network.

42. The method according to any one of claims 34 to 41, characterized in that, The control plane function network element is an MB control plane function network element, and the first user plane function network element and the second user plane function network element are MB user plane function network elements.

43. The method according to any one of claims 34 to 42, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the second information, cache the second data.

44. The method according to any one of claims 34 to 43, characterized in that, The method further includes: The address information of the second user plane function element is sent to the control plane function element.

45. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 15; or includes units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 16 to 21; or includes units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 22 to 33; or includes units or modules for implementing the method as described in any one of claims 34 to 44.

46. ​​A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device includes a memory and at least one processor; The memory is used to store computer programs or instructions; The at least one processor is configured to execute the computer program or instructions in the memory, such that the method of any one of claims 1 to 15 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 16 to 21 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 22 to 33 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 34 to 44 is executed.

47. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes a first control plane functional network element and a first user plane functional network element; Wherein, the first control plane functional network element is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 15; The first user plane function network element is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 16 to 21.

48. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes a second control plane functional network element and a second user plane functional network element. The second control plane functional network element is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 22 to 33; The second user plane function element is used to perform the method as described in any one of claims 34 to 44.

49. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed, cause the computer to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15, or cause the computer to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 21, or perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 33, or perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 34 to 44.

50. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes: computer program code, which, when executed by a computer, causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, or the method as described in any one of claims 16 to 21, or the method as described in any one of claims 22 to 33, or the method as described in any one of claims 34 to 44.

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