Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, and relates to the technical field of communication. The method comprises the following steps: a first core network device receives a first data packet from an application server, wherein the first data packet comprises first time information; and the first core network device determines a first transmission delay according to the first time information, the first transmission delay being a transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. And the first core network equipment sends the first transmission delay to the second core network equipment or the fourth core network equipment. Wherein the first core network equipment can be a user plane management function network element, and the fourth core network equipment can be an application function network element.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In a communication system, the transmission delay between a user plane function (UPF) network element and an application server (AS) affects the service transmission performance. However, in the related art, no technical solution for determining the transmission delay between the UPF network element and the application server is given, thus affecting the end-to-end service transmission performance and resulting in a poor service experience. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To solve the above technical problems, this application provides a communication method and apparatus, which can determine the transmission delay between a first core network device and an application server, and helps to ensure the end-to-end service transmission performance. To achieve the above object, this application adopts the following technical solutions:

[0004] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first core network device. Without special explanation, the "first core network device" in this application can refer to the first core network device itself, or a component in the first core network device (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or can also be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first core network device. Hereinafter, the description will be made taking the execution entity as the first core network device as an example. The method includes:

[0005] The first core network device receives a first data packet from an application server, and the first data packet includes first time information. The first core network device determines a first transmission delay according to the first time information, where the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The first core network device sends the first transmission delay to a second core network device or a fourth core network device.

[0006] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element. The second core network device is a session management function network element. The fourth core network device is an application function network element.

[0007] That is to say, after the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, it can determine the first transmission delay according to the first time information carried in the first data packet. In this way, the first core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0008] When the first core network device provides the first transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the second core network device, other core network devices can adjust the quality of service QoS parameters based on the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device and the first transmission delay, such as adjusting parameters such as packet delay budget (PDB) or packet set delay budget (PSDB), thereby achieving end-to-end QoS control. In other words, based on the communication method of the present application, in the process of end-to-end QoS guarantee, the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve end-to-end service experience.

[0009] When the first core network device provides the first transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the fourth core network device, it can be understood that: the network state is opened to the outside world through the first core network device. In this way, the fourth core network device can dynamically adjust the application layer based on the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device and the first transmission delay, thereby providing end-to-end service assurance and improving the end-to-end service experience.

[0010] In one possible design, the first transmission delay is used for quality of service QoS parameter adjustment, and the QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: a data packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, or a data packet aggregate delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0011] In one possible design, the first transmission delay is used for edge application server selection, rediscovery, etc. For example, an edge application server with a lower first transmission delay may be selected, or the first transmission delay is too large to trigger the replacement or rediscovery of an edge application server.

[0012] In a possible design, the first time information includes: the time when the application server sends the first data packet. The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following two times: the time when the application server sends the first data packet, and the time when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

[0013] That is to say, the first transmission delay may refer to the downlink transmission delay from the application server to the first core network device. The first transmission delay is determined according to the sending time and receiving time of the first data packet, so that the first core network device can obtain the 'downlink transmission delay from the application server to the first core network device'.

[0014] In a possible design, before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: the first core network device sends a second data packet to the application server, and the second data packet includes the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet.

[0015] The first time information includes: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and the time when the application server receives the second data packet.

[0016] The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following two times: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and the time when the application server receives the second data packet.

[0017] That is to say, the first transmission delay may refer to the uplink transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server. The first transmission delay is determined according to the sending time and receiving time of the second data packet, so that the first core network device can obtain the 'uplink transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server'.

[0018] In a possible design, before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: the first core network device sends a second data packet to the application server, and the second data packet includes the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet.

[0019] The first time information includes: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet, the time when the application server receives the second data packet, and the time when the application server sends the first data packet.

[0020] The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following four moments: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, the moment when the application server receives the second data packet, the moment when the application server sends the first data packet, and the moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

[0021] That is to say, the first transmission delay may refer to: the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The first transmission delay is determined according to the sending moment and receiving moment of the first data packet, and the sending moment and receiving moment of the second data packet, so that the first core network device can obtain the 'transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server'.

[0022] In a possible design, before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: the first core network device receives a third data packet from the terminal device, and the third data packet includes the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet. The first core network device sends the third data packet to the application server.

[0023] The first time information includes: the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet.

[0024] The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: when the first data packet and the third data packet include the same moment, and the same moment is the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following two moments: the moment when the first core network device sends the third data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet.

[0025] That is to say, the first transmission delay may refer to: the uplink transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server. The first transmission delay is determined according to the sending moment and receiving moment of the third data packet, so that the first core network device can obtain the 'uplink transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server'.

[0026] In a possible design, the first time information is carried in the Real - Time Transport Protocol (RTP) header or the RTP extension header of the first data packet. Alternatively, the first time information is carried in the Sender Report (SR) field of the Real - Time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP) of the first data packet.

[0027] In a possible design, the first time information is carried in the first protocol layer of the first data packet. Wherein, the first protocol layer is the protocol layer of the tunnel between the first core network device and the application server.

[0028] In a possible design, the method further includes: the first core network device receives first configuration information from the second core network device, and the first configuration information instructs to determine the first transmission delay, so that the first core network device performs the measurement of the first transmission delay, thereby determining the first transmission delay.

[0029] In a possible design, the first configuration information further instructs at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the transmission period of the first transmission delay, or the transmission trigger condition of the first transmission delay.

[0030] Wherein, the measurement method of the first transmission delay can be understood as: determining the first transmission delay based on the first time information carried in the RTP header of the first data packet; or determining the first transmission delay based on the first time information carried in the RTP extension header of the first data packet; or determining the first transmission delay based on the first time information carried in the SR field of RTCP in the first data packet.

[0031] In a possible design, the first configuration information further instructs: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel. The first tunnel is the tunnel between the first core network device and the application server.

[0032] The method further includes: the first core network device establishes the first tunnel according to the first configuration information, and the first tunnel is used for the measurement of the first transmission delay, so that the first core network device performs the transmission delay measurement through the first tunnel.

[0033] Second aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a first core network device. Without special specification, the "first core network device" in this application can refer to the first core network device itself, or a component in the first core network device (such as a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or can also be a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the first core network device. Below, the description will be given taking the execution entity as the first core network device as an example. The method includes:

[0034] The first core network device receives a first data packet from an application server, and the first data packet includes second time information. The first core network device determines a second transmission delay according to the second time information, and the second transmission delay is the transmission delay between a terminal device and the application server. The first core network device sends the second transmission delay to a second core network device, and the second transmission delay is used to determine the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0035] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element. The second core network device is a session management function network element.

[0036] That is to say, after the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, it can determine the second transmission delay according to the second time information carried in the first data packet. In this way, the first core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server.

[0037] In the case where the first core network device provides the second transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the second core network device, other core network devices can determine the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server based on the second transmission delay, and then adjust quality of service (QoS) parameters, such as adjusting parameters like packet delay budget (PDB) or PDU Set delay budget (PSDB), based on the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server and the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device. That is to say, based on the communication method of this application, during the end-to-end QoS guarantee process, the transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0038] In a possible design, the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server is used for Quality of Service (QoS) parameter adjustment. The QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: the packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, or the packet set delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0039] In a possible design, the first transmission delay is used for the selection and rediscovery of edge application servers. For example, an edge application server with a lower first transmission delay may be selected, or if the first transmission delay is too large, it is used to trigger the replacement or rediscovery of the edge application server.

[0040] In a possible design, before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: the first core network device receives a fourth data packet from the terminal device, and the fourth data packet includes the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet. The first core network device sends the fourth data packet to the application server.

[0041] The second time information includes: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet, and the time when the application server receives the fourth data packet.

[0042] The first core network device determines the second transmission delay according to the second time information, including: the first core network device determines the second transmission delay according to the following two times: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet, and the time when the application server receives the fourth data packet.

[0043] That is to say, the second transmission delay is determined according to the sending time and receiving time of the fourth data packet, so as to determine the uplink transmission delay from the terminal device to the application server.

[0044] In a possible design, the second time information is carried in the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) extension header of the first data packet.

[0045] In a possible design, the method further includes: the first core network device receives second configuration information from the second core network device, and the second configuration information instructs to determine the second transmission delay, so that the first core network device performs the measurement of the second transmission delay, thereby enabling the first core network device to determine the second transmission delay.

[0046] In a possible design, the second configuration information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the second transmission delay, or the measurement period of the second transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the second transmission delay, or the transmission period of the second transmission delay, or the transmission trigger condition of the second transmission delay.

[0047] Among them, the measurement method of the second transmission delay can be understood as: determining the first transmission delay based on the first time information carried in the RTP extension header of the first data packet.

[0048] In a third aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a second core network device. Without special indication, the "second core network device" in this application can refer to the second core network device itself, or a component in the second core network device (such as a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or can also be a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the second core network device. Below, the description is made with the execution entity being the second core network device as an example. The method includes:

[0049] The second core network device obtains a first transmission delay, where the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between a first core network device and an application server. The second core network device sends the first transmission delay to a third core network device.

[0050] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element. The second core network device is a session management function network element. The third core network device is a policy control function network element.

[0051] That is to say, the second core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0052] In the case where the second core network device provides the first transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the third core network device, it can enable other core network devices to adjust quality of service (QoS) parameters based on the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device and the first transmission delay, such as adjusting parameters such as packet delay budget (PDB) or PDU Set delay budget (PSDB). That is to say, based on the communication method of this application, during the end-to-end QoS guarantee process, the transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0053] In a possible design, the method further includes: the second core network device triggers the selection, rediscovery, etc. of the edge application server according to the first transmission delay. For example, an edge application server with a lower first transmission delay may be selected, or if the first transmission delay is too large, the replacement or rediscovery of the edge application server is triggered.

[0054] In a possible design, the second core network device obtains the first transmission delay, including: the second core network device receives the first transmission delay from the first core network device. That is, the second core network device obtains the first transmission delay from the first core network device.

[0055] In a possible design, the second core network device obtains the first transmission delay, including: the second core network device receives the first transmission delay from the fourth core network device. That is, the second core network device obtains the first transmission delay from the fourth core network device. Wherein, the fourth core network device is an application function network element or a network data analysis function network element.

[0056] In a possible design, the second core network device obtains the first transmission delay, including: the second core network device receives a second transmission delay from the first core network device or the fourth core network device, and the second transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. The second core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay. For example, the second core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay and a third transmission delay, and the third transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device. Wherein, the fourth core network device is an application function network element or a network data analysis function network element.

[0057] That is, the second core network device obtains the second transmission delay from the first core network device, and then determines the first transmission delay in combination with the second transmission delay.

[0058] In a possible design, the method further includes: the second core network device obtains adjusted QoS parameters, and the adjusted QoS parameters are determined based on the first transmission delay.

[0059] For example, the adjusted QoS parameters include parameters such as PDB or PSDB, so as to realize QoS dynamic control.

[0060] In a fourth aspect, a communication method is provided. The method can be executed by a third core network device. Unless otherwise specified, the "third core network device" in this application can refer to the third core network device itself, or a component in the third core network device (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the third core network device. Below, the execution subject is described as an example. The method includes:

[0061] The third core network device obtains a first transmission delay, where the first transmission delay is a transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0062] The third core network device adjusts the quality of service QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay, and / or the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device. The QoS parameters include at least one of the following: a data packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device. Or, a data packet aggregate delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0063] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element, the third core network device is a policy control function network element, and the fourth core network device is an application function network element.

[0064] That is to say, the third core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0065] The third core network device adjusts the quality of service QoS parameters based on the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device, and the first transmission delay, such as adjusting parameters such as packet delay budget (PDB) or packet set delay budget (PSDB), so as to achieve end-to-end QoS control. In other words, based on the communication method of the present application, in the process of end-to-end QoS guarantee, the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0066] When the third core network device provides the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device, the third core network device can realize the opening of the network status to the outside world. In this way, the fourth core network device can refer to the first transmission delay to perform dynamic adjustment at the application layer, thereby providing end-to-end service guarantee and improving the end-to-end service experience.

[0067] In a possible design, the third core network device obtains a first transmission delay, including: the third core network device receives the first transmission delay from the second core network device.

[0068] For example, the second core network device is a session management function network element.

[0069] That is to say, the third core network device obtains the first transmission delay from the second core network device.

[0070] In a possible design, the method further includes: the third core network device receives first indication information from the fourth core network device, where the first indication information indicates to determine the first transmission delay. The third core network device determines first policy information according to the first indication information, where the first policy information indicates to determine the first transmission delay. The third core network device sends the first policy information to the second core network device.

[0071] That is to say, the third core network device generates the first policy information based on the first indication information, so as to indicate to determine the first transmission delay through the first policy information.

[0072] In a possible design, the first policy information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the sending period of the first transmission delay, or the sending trigger condition of the first transmission delay. Wherein, the first transmission delay is measured by the first core network device.

[0073] In a possible design, the first policy information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel. Wherein, the first tunnel is a tunnel between the first core network device and the application server, and the first tunnel is used for measuring the first transmission delay.

[0074] In a possible design, the third core network device obtains a first transmission delay, including: the third core network device receives a second transmission delay from the second core network device, where the second transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. The third core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay and a third transmission delay, where the third transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0075] That is to say, the first transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The first transmission delay is determined according to the second transmission delay and the third transmission delay, so that the third core network device can obtain the "transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server".

[0076] In a possible design, the method further includes: the third core network device receives first indication information from a fourth core network device, and the first indication information indicates to determine the first transmission delay. The third core network device determines second policy information according to the first indication information, and the second policy information indicates to determine the third transmission delay. The third core network device sends the second policy information to the second core network device.

[0077] That is to say, the third core network device generates the second policy information based on the first indication information, so as to indicate to determine the third transmission delay through the second policy information.

[0078] In a possible design, the second policy information further indicates to determine the second transmission delay.

[0079] For example, the fourth core network device may provide the second transmission delay in the first indication information. Conversely, if the fourth core network device does not provide the second transmission delay, the second policy information further indicates to determine the second transmission delay.

[0080] In a possible design, the second policy information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the second transmission delay, or the measurement period of the second transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the second transmission delay, or the sending period of the second transmission delay, or the sending trigger condition of the second transmission delay. Wherein, the second transmission delay is determined by the first core network device.

[0081] In a possible design, the first indication information further indicates that the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment. The third core network device adjusts QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay, including: in response to the first indication information, the third core network device adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

[0082] That is to say, when the first indication information indicates that the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment, the third core network device adjusts QoS parameters based on the first transmission delay, thereby simplifying the processing complexity on the third core network device side.

[0083] In one possible design, the first indication information further indicates: feeding back the first transmission delay. The third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device, including: in response to the first indication information, the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device.

[0084] That is to say, the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device only when the first indication information indicates feedback of the first transmission delay, thereby realizing the opening of the network status to the outside world.

[0085] In a fifth aspect, a communication method is provided. The method can be executed by a fourth core network device. Unless otherwise specified, the "fourth core network device" in this application can refer to the fourth core network device itself, or a component in the fourth core network device (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the fourth core network device. Below, the description is taken as an example in which the execution subject is the fourth core network device. The method includes:

[0086] The fourth core network device determines first indication information, where the first indication information indicates determining a first transmission delay, where the first transmission delay is a transmission delay between the first core network device and an application server. The fourth core network device sends the first indication information to the third core network device.

[0087] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element, the third core network device is a policy control function network element, and the fourth core network device is an application function network element.

[0088] That is to say, the fourth core network device can generate the first indication information, and determine the first transmission delay through the indication of the first indication information. When other core network devices, such as the third core network device, obtain the first indication information, different strategies can be generated based on the first indication information to achieve the determination of the first transmission delay. In this way, in the process of end-to-end QoS guarantee, the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0089] In one possible design, the first transmission delay is used for quality of service QoS parameter adjustment, and the QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: a data packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, or a data packet aggregate delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0090] In a possible design, the first indication information further indicates that the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment, so that the third core network device adjusts QoS parameters based on the first transmission delay, thereby performing end-to-end service guarantee and improving the end-to-end service experience.

[0091] In a possible design, the first indication information further indicates: feedback of the first transmission delay. The method further includes: the fourth core network device receiving the first transmission delay from the first core network device or the third core network device.

[0092] That is to say, the fourth core network device can obtain the first transmission delay to realize the openness of the network state. In this way, the fourth core network device can perform application layer dynamic adjustment based on the first transmission delay, thereby performing end-to-end service guarantee and improving the end-to-end service experience.

[0093] In a possible design, the method further includes: the fourth core network device triggering the selection, rediscovery, etc. of the edge application server according to the first transmission delay. For example, an edge application server with a lower first transmission delay may be selected, or if the first transmission delay is too large, the replacement or rediscovery of the edge application server is triggered.

[0094] In a possible design, the first indication information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the transmission period of the first transmission delay, or the transmission trigger condition of the first transmission delay.

[0095] In a possible design, the first indication information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel. The first tunnel is a tunnel between the first core network device and the application server, and the first tunnel is used for the measurement of the first transmission delay.

[0096] That is to say, the fourth core network device can generate the first indication information and indicate the endpoints or establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel through the first indication information. In the case where other core network devices, such as the third core network device, obtain the first indication information, different policies can be generated based on the first indication information, thereby realizing the establishment of the first tunnel.

[0097] Sixth aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by an application server. Without special specification, the "application server" in this application can refer to the application server itself, or a component in the application server (such as a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or can also be a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the application server. Below, the description is given taking the execution entity as the application server as an example. The method includes:

[0098] The application server determines a first data packet, where the first data packet includes first time information, and the first time information is used to determine a first transmission delay, and the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between a first core network device and the application server. The application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device.

[0099] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element.

[0100] That is to say, after the application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device, it can enable the first core network device to determine the first transmission delay according to the first time information carried in the first data packet. In this way, the first core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0101] When the first core network device provides the first transmission delay to other core network devices, it can enable other core network devices to adjust quality of service (QoS) parameters based on the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device and the first transmission delay, implement end-to-end QoS control, thereby perform end-to-end service guarantee, and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0102] In a possible design, the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment, and the QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: the packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, or the packet set delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0103] In a possible design, the first time information includes: the moment when the application server sends the first data packet.

[0104] In this way, the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay according to two moments, that is, the moment when the application server sends the first data packet and the moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

[0105] In a possible design, before the application server determines the first data packet, the method further includes: the application server receives a second data packet from the first core network device, and the second data packet includes the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet.

[0106] The first time information includes: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and the time when the application server receives the second data packet.

[0107] In this way, the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay according to two times, that is, the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet and the time when the application server receives the second data packet.

[0108] In a possible design, before the application server determines the first data packet, the method further includes: the application server receives a second data packet from the first core network device, and the second data packet includes the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet.

[0109] The first time information includes: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet, the time when the application server receives the second data packet, and the time when the application server sends the first data packet.

[0110] In this way, the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay according to four times, that is, the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet, the time when the application server receives the second data packet, the time when the application server sends the first data packet, and the time when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

[0111] In a possible design, before the application server determines the first data packet, the method further includes: the application server receives a third data packet from a terminal device through the first core network device, and the third data packet includes the time when the terminal device sends the third data packet.

[0112] The first time information includes: the time when the application server receives the third data packet, and the time when the terminal device sends the third data packet.

[0113] In this way, the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay according to two times, that is, the time when the first core network device sends the third data packet and the time when the application server receives the third data packet.

[0114] In a possible design, the first time information is carried in the Real - Time Transport Protocol (RTP) header or the RTP extension header of the first data packet.

[0115] In a possible design, the first time information is carried in the Sender Report (SR) field of the Real - Time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP) of the first data packet.

[0116] In a possible design, the first time information is carried in the first protocol layer of the first data packet. Wherein, the first protocol layer is the protocol layer of the tunnel between the first core network device and the application server.

[0117] In a seventh aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by an application server. Without special indication, the "application server" in this application can refer to the application server itself, or a component in the application server (such as a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or can also be a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the application server. Hereinafter, the description will be given taking the execution subject as the application server as an example. The method includes:

[0118] The application server determines a first data packet. The first data packet includes second time information. The first time information is used to determine a second transmission delay. The second transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. The second transmission delay is used to determine the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device.

[0119] That is to say, after the application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device, it can enable the first core network device to determine the second transmission delay according to the second time information carried in the first data packet. In this way, the first core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server.

[0120] When the first core network device provides the second transmission delay to other core network devices, it can enable other core network devices to determine the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server based on the second transmission delay, and then based on the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device and the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server, perform Quality of Service (QoS) parameter adjustment to achieve end - to - end QoS control, thereby performing end - to - end service guarantee and improving the end - to - end service experience.

[0121] In a possible design, the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server is used for Quality of Service (QoS) parameter adjustment. The QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: the packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, or the packet set delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0122] In a possible design, before the application server determines the first data packet, the method further includes: the application server receives a fourth data packet from the terminal device through the first core network device, and the fourth data packet includes the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet.

[0123] The second time information includes: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet, and the time when the application server receives the fourth data packet.

[0124] In this way, the first core network device can determine the second transmission delay based on two times, namely, the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet and the time when the application server receives the fourth data packet.

[0125] In a possible design, the second time information is carried in the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) extension header of the first data packet.

[0126] In an eighth aspect, a communication method is provided. This method can be executed by a fifth core network device. Without special indication, the "fifth core network device" in this application can refer to the fifth core network device itself, or a component in the fifth core network device (such as a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or can also be a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the fifth core network device. Hereinafter, the description is made with the execution entity being the fifth core network device as an example. The method includes:

[0127] The fifth core network device receives a subscription request from a third core network device. The subscription request is used to request an estimated value of a first transmission delay, and the estimated value of the first transmission delay indicates the estimated transmission delay between a first core network device and an application server. The fifth core network device obtains a historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, and the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay indicates the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server during a historical period. The fifth core network device determines the estimated value of the first transmission delay based on the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay. The fifth core network device sends the estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device.

[0128] Among them, the estimated value of the first transmission delay can be understood as the estimated value of the first transmission delay at the current moment or in a future period.

[0129] For example, the first core network device is a user plane management function network element. The third core network device is a policy control function network element or a session management network element. The fifth core network device is a network data analysis function network element.

[0130] That is to say, the fifth core network device can, in response to the subscription request, perform data analysis based on the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, so as to obtain the estimated transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server, that is, the estimated value of the first transmission delay.

[0131] When the fifth core network device provides the estimated value of the first transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the third core network device, the third core network device adjusts quality of service (QoS) parameters based on the estimated value of the first transmission delay, such as adjusting parameters such as packet delay budget (PDB) or PDU Set delay budget (PSDB), so as to implement end-to-end QoS control. That is to say, based on the communication method of this application, during the process of end-to-end QoS guarantee, the estimated value of the transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0132] In a possible design, the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, including: the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay from a fourth core network device or a first core network device.

[0133] That is to say, the fifth core network device can obtain the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay from the fourth core network device or the first core network device, so as to provide a basis for data analysis for the fifth core network device.

[0134] In a possible design, the fifth core network device obtains a historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, including: the fifth core network device obtains a historical measurement value of a second transmission delay, where the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay is the transmission delay measured between the terminal device and the application server during the historical period. The fifth core network device obtains a historical measurement value of a third transmission delay, where the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay is the transmission delay measured between the terminal device and the first core network device during the historical period. The fifth core network device determines the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay according to the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay and the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay.

[0135] That is to say, the first transmission delay refers to: the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The historical measurement value of the first transmission delay is determined according to the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay and the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay, so that the fifth core network device can know 'the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server during the historical period'.

[0136] In a possible design, the fifth core network device obtains a historical measurement value of the second transmission delay, including: the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay from the fourth core network device, so that the fifth core network device can determine the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay based on the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay.

[0137] In a possible design, the fifth core network device obtains a historical measurement value of the third transmission delay, including: the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay from the third core network device, so that the fifth core network device can determine the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay based on the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay.

[0138] In a possible design, the subscription request includes at least one of the following:

[0139] The first item is the identifier of the first terminal device, and the first terminal device transmits data between the first core network device and the application server. That is to say, the subscription request is used to subscribe to the estimated value of the first transmission delay for the first terminal device.

[0140] The second item is the identifier of the first terminal device group, and each terminal device in the first terminal device group transmits data between the first core network device and the application server. That is to say, the subscription request is used to subscribe to the estimated value of the first transmission delay for the first terminal device group.

[0141] Item 3, the identifier of the first service, where the first transmission delay is the transmission delay of the first service between the first core network device and the application server. That is, the subscription request is used to subscribe to the estimated value of the first transmission delay for the first service.

[0142] In a ninth aspect, a communication device is provided for implementing the various methods described above. The communication device includes corresponding modules, units, or means for implementing the methods. These modules, units, or means can be implemented by hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units corresponding to the functions.

[0143] In some possible designs, the communication device may include a processing module and a transceiver module. The processing module can be used to implement the processing functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementation manners thereof. The transceiver module, which can also be referred to as a transceiver unit, is used to implement the sending and / or receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementation manners thereof. The transceiver module can be composed of a transceiver circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver, or a communication interface.

[0144] In some possible designs, the transceiver module includes a sending module and / or a receiving module, which are respectively used to implement the sending or receiving functions in any of the above aspects and any possible implementation manners thereof.

[0145] In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided, including: a processor and a memory. The processor and the memory are coupled. The memory stores program instructions. When the program instructions stored in the memory are executed by the processor, the communication device is caused to execute the methods in any of the above aspects or any possible design in any of the above aspects.

[0146] In an eleventh aspect, a communication device is provided, including: a processor; the processor is used to execute a computer program or instructions so that the communication device executes the methods described in any aspect.

[0147] Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory. The memory can be coupled to the processor, or the memory can exist independently of the processor. For example, the memory and the processor are two independent modules. The memory can be located outside the communication device or inside the communication device.

[0148] In a twelfth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions. When it runs on a communication device, the communication device can be caused to execute the methods described in any aspect.

[0149] In a thirteenth aspect, there is provided a computer program product comprising instructions which, when run on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method described in any of the aspects.

[0150] The communication device provided in any of the ninth to thirteenth aspects may be the first core network device in the first or second aspect, or a component in the first core network device, such as a chip or a chip system; or, the communication device may be the second core network device in the third aspect, or a component in the second core network device, such as a chip or a chip system; or, the communication device may be the third core network device in the fourth aspect, or a component in the third core network device, such as a chip or a chip system; or, the communication device may be the fourth core network device in the fifth aspect, or a component in the fourth core network device, such as a chip or a chip system; or, the communication device may be the application server in the sixth or seventh aspect, or a component in the application server, such as a chip or a chip system; or, the communication device may be the fifth core network device in the eighth aspect, or a component in the fifth core network device, such as a chip or a chip system. When the device is a chip system, it may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0151] It can be understood that when the communication device provided in any of the ninth to thirteenth aspects is a chip, the sending action / function of the communication device can be understood as outputting information, and the receiving action / function of the communication device can be understood as inputting information.

[0152] Among them, for the technical effects brought by any of the design manners in the ninth to thirteenth aspects, reference may be made to the technical effects brought by different design manners in the first to eighth aspects, which will not be elaborated here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0153] Figure 1 FIG. is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system to which an embodiment of the present application is applied.

[0154] Figure 2a FIG. is a schematic diagram of the architecture of another communication system to which an embodiment of the present application is applied.

[0155] Figure 2b FIG. is a user plane protocol provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0156] Figure 3 FIG. is a schematic diagram of a QoS guarantee mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0157] Figure 4 FIG. is a schematic diagram of another QoS guarantee mechanism provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0158] Figure 5Schematic flowchart of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0159] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the header structure of a data packet provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0160] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the header structure of another data packet provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0161] Figure 8 Schematic diagram of the header structure of yet another data packet provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0162] Figure 9 Schematic flowchart of another communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0163] Figure 10 Schematic flowchart of yet another communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0164] Figure 11 Schematic flowchart of yet another communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0165] Figure 12 Schematic flowchart of yet another communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0166] Figure 13 Schematic flowchart of yet another communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0167] Figure 14 Schematic flowchart of yet another communication method provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0168] Figure 15 Schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0169] Figure 16 Schematic diagram of the structure of another communication device provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0170] Figure 17 Schematic diagram of the structure of yet another communication device provided by an embodiment of the present application. Detailed implementation manners

[0171] Next, the technical solutions in the present application will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0172] In this application, the term "system" may be used interchangeably with "network". This application will present various aspects, embodiments, or features in the context of a system that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood and appreciated that each system may include additional devices, components, modules, etc., and / or may not include all of the devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in connection with the figures. Additionally, combinations of these solutions may be used.

[0173] In addition, in the embodiments of this application, words such as "exemplarily" and "for example" are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design solution described as an "example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or having more advantages than other embodiments or design solutions. Rather, the use of the word "example" is intended to present concepts in a specific manner.

[0174] In the embodiments of this application, "of", "corresponding", and "corresponding to" may sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when the differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are the same.

[0175] The network architecture and service scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application. Those of ordinary skill in the art will know that with the evolution of the network architecture and the emergence of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application are equally applicable to similar technical problems.

[0176] The embodiments of this application can be applied to a communication system as Figure 1 shown. This communication system may be a communication system supporting fourth-generation (4G) access technology, such as long term evolution (LTE) access technology; or, this communication system may also be a communication system supporting fifth-generation (5G) access technology, such as new radio (NR) access technology; or, this communication system may further be a communication system supporting multiple wireless technologies, such as a communication system supporting LTE access technology and NR access technology. Additionally, this communication system may also be applicable to future-oriented communication technologies.

[0177] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided by the embodiments of this application. As Figure 1As shown in the figure, the communication system includes a terminal device and a network device. Among them, the network device includes an access network (AN) device and a core network (CN) device. The access network device can also be replaced by a radio access network (RAN) device.

[0178] Among them, the terminal device accesses the core network through the access network device or the radio access network device. The terminal device includes a device that provides voice and / or data connectivity to the user. Specifically, it includes a device that provides voice to the user, or a device that provides data connectivity to the user, or a device that provides both voice and data connectivity to the user. For example, it may include a handheld device with wireless connection capabilities, or a processing device connected to a wireless modem. The terminal device can communicate with the core network via the radio access network, exchange voice or data with the RAN, or interact with the RAN for voice and data. The terminal device may include user equipment (UE), wireless terminal device, mobile terminal device, device-to-device (D2D) terminal device, vehicle to everything (V2X) terminal device, machine-to-machine / machine-type communications (M2M / MTC) terminal device, Internet of Things (IoT) terminal device, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, remote station, access point (AP), remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, user agent, or user device, etc. For example, it may include a mobile phone (or called a "cellular" phone), a computer with a mobile terminal device, a portable, pocket-sized, handheld, or computer-integrated mobile device, etc. For example, personal communication service (PCS) phones, cordless phones, session initiation protocol (SIP) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistant (PDA) devices, etc. It also includes restricted devices, such as devices with lower power consumption, or devices with limited storage capacity, or devices with limited computing power, etc. For example, it includes information sensing devices such as barcodes, radio frequency identification (RFID), sensors, global positioning system (GPS), laser scanners, etc.

[0179] Among the various terminal devices introduced above, if they are located on a vehicle (for example, placed inside or installed inside the vehicle), they can all be considered in-vehicle terminal devices. In-vehicle terminal devices are also referred to as on-board units (OBUs) for example.

[0180] In the embodiments of this application, the terminal device may further include a relay. Or, it can be understood that anything capable of data communication with a base station can be regarded as a terminal device.

[0181] In the embodiments of this application, the device for implementing the functions of the terminal device can be the terminal device, or a device capable of supporting the terminal device to implement such functions, such as a chip system, and this device can be installed in the terminal device. In the embodiments of this application, the chip system can be composed of chips, or can include chips and other discrete devices. In the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application, the case where the device for implementing the functions of the terminal device is the terminal device is taken as an example for introduction.

[0182] An access network device can be a device that connects a terminal device to a wireless network. The access network devices in the embodiments of this application can include various forms of base stations, for example, it can be a macro base station, a micro base station (also referred to as a small station), a relay station, an access point, a transmitting point (TP), an evolved NodeB (eNodeB), a transmission reception point (TRP), a next generation NodeB (gNB) in a 5G communication system, a device implementing the functions of a base station in a communication system evolved after 5G, a mobile switching center, and a device undertaking the functions of a base station in D2D, V2X, M2M communications, etc.; it can also be an access network device in a non-terrestrial networks (NTN) communication system, that is, it can be deployed on a high-altitude platform or a satellite; it can also be a module or unit that completes some functions of a base station, for example, it can be a central unit (CU) in a cloud radio access network (C-RAN) system, or a distributed unit (DU). The specific technologies and specific device forms adopted by the access network devices in the embodiments of this application are not limited. All or part of the functions of the access network device can also be implemented by software functions running on hardware, or by virtualized functions instantiated on a platform (such as a cloud platform). In the embodiments of this application, if not otherwise specified, the access network device refers to a RAN device.

[0183] The introduction of different core network devices in the core network is as follows:

[0184] User plane function network element: It is used for packet routing and forwarding, as well as the quality of service (QoS) processing of user plane data, etc. As Figure 2a shown, in a 5G communication system, the user plane function network element can be a user plane function (UPF) network element. In future communication systems, the user plane function network element can still be a UPF network element, or it can also have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0185] Data network (DN) network element: It is used to provide a network for transmitting data. As Figure 2a shown, in a 5G communication system, the data network can be a DN. In future communication systems, the data network can still be a DN, or it can also have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0186] Authentication service network element: It is used for authentication services, generating keys to achieve two-way authentication of terminal devices, and supporting a unified authentication framework. As Figure 2a shown, in a 5G communication system, the authentication service network element can be an authentication server function (AUSF) network element. In future communication systems, the authentication server function network element can still be an AUSF network element, or it can also have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0187] Access and mobility management network element: It is used for mobility management and access management, etc., and can be used to implement other functions in the mobility management entity (MME) function except session management, such as lawful interception and access authorization / authentication functions. As Figure 2a shown, in a 5G communication system, the access and mobility management network element can be an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element. In future communication systems, the access and mobility management network element can still be an AMF network element, or it can also have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0188] Session management network element: It is mainly used for session management, the allocation and management of the Internet Protocol (IP) address of terminal devices, selecting manageable user plane functions, terminating the endpoints of policy control and charging function interfaces, and downlink data notification, etc. As Figure 2aAs shown, in a 5G communication system, the session management network element may be a session management function (SMF) network element. In future communication systems, the session management network element may still be an SMF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0189] Service communication function network element: used to provide communication functions for selection between network function (NF) network elements. For example Figure 2a As shown, in a 5G communication system, the service communication function network element may be a service communication function (SCP) network element. In future communication systems, the service communication function network element may still be an SCP network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0190] Network data analysis function network element, used for network data analysis function, providing network data collection and analysis services based on technologies such as big data and artificial intelligence. For example Figure 2a As shown, in a 5G communication system, the network data analysis function network element may be a network data analytics function (NWDAF) network element. In future communication systems, the network data analysis function network element may still be an NWDAF network element, or it may have other names, such as network analysis network element, or network analysis function network element, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0191] Network capability open function network element: used to provide network customization functions, and / or used to securely open services and capabilities provided by 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) network functions to the outside. For example Figure 2a As shown, in a 5G communication system, the network capability open function network element may be a network exposure function (NEF) network element. In future communication systems, the network capability open function network element may still be an NEF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0192] Network storage network element: used to maintain real-time information of all network function services in the network. For example Figure 2aAs shown in the figure, in a 5G communication system, the network storage network element may be a network repository function (NRF) network element. In future communication systems, the network storage network element may still be an NRF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0193] Policy control network element: A unified policy framework for guiding network behavior, providing policy rule information, etc. for control plane network elements (such as AMF network elements, SMF network elements, etc.). In a 4G communication system, the policy control network element may be a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) network element. As Figure 2a shown in the figure, in a 5G communication system, the policy control network element may be a policy control function (PCF) network element. In future communication systems, the policy control network element may still be a PCF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0194] Data management network element: Used to process terminal device identification, access authentication, registration, and mobility management, etc. As Figure 2a shown in the figure, in a 5G communication system, the data management network element may be a unified data management (UDM) network element. In future communication systems, the data management network element may still be a UDM network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0195] Application function network element: Used to perform data routing that affects applications, access network open function network elements, and interact with the policy framework for policy control, etc. As Figure 2a shown in the figure, in a 5G communication system, the application network element may be an application function (AF) network element. In future communication systems, the application network element may still be an AF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0196] See Figure 2a , the terminal device accesses the 5G network through the (R)AN device. The terminal device communicates with the AMF network element through the N1 interface (abbreviated as N1); the (R)AN device communicates with the AMF network element through the N2 interface (abbreviated as N2); the (R)AN device communicates with the UPF network element through the N3 interface (abbreviated as N3); the SMF network element communicates with the UPF network element through the N4 interface (abbreviated as N4); the UPF network element accesses the DN through the N6 interface (abbreviated as N6); different UPF network elements communicate with each other through the N9 interface (abbreviated as N9). In Figure 2aIn the architecture shown, N1, N2, N3, N4, N6, and N9 respectively represent reference points between related network elements / network functions. The (R)AN device refers to either an AN device or a RAN device.

[0197] In addition, Figure 2a For the control plane functions such as the AUSF network element, AMF network element, SMF network element, NWDAF network element, NEF network element, NRF network element, PCF network element, UDM network element, or AF network element shown, service-based interfaces are used for interaction. For example, the service-based interface provided by the AUSF network element is Nausf; the service-based interface provided by the AMF network element is Namf; the service-based interface provided by the SMF network element is Nsmf; the service-based interface provided by the NWDAF network element is Nnwdaf; the service-based interface provided by the NEF network element is Nnef; the service-based interface provided by the NRF network element is Nnrf; the service-based interface provided by the PCF network element is Npcf; the service-based interface provided by the UDM network element is Nudm; the service-based interface provided by the AF network element is Naf. The relevant function descriptions and interface descriptions can refer to the 5G system architecture diagram in the 23501 standard, which will not be elaborated here.

[0198] Optionally, each of the above core network devices can be implemented by one device, or jointly implemented by multiple devices, or can also be a functional module within one device. The embodiments of this application do not make specific limitations on this. It can be understood that the above functional modules can be either network elements in hardware devices, software functional modules running on dedicated hardware, or virtualized functional modules instantiated on a platform (such as a cloud platform).

[0199] Optionally, in the embodiments of this application, the term "network element" can be mutually replaced with "entity", "device", etc. For example, "AMF network element" can also be written as "AMF entity" or "AMF device", and "SMF network element" can also be written as "SMF entity" or "SMF device", etc. Additionally, in some embodiments, for the sake of convenience in description, "XXX network element" is abbreviated as "XXX". For example, "AUSF network element" can also be abbreviated as "AUSF", and "SMF network element" can also be abbreviated as "SMF". In the embodiments of this application, the XXX network element is used as an example for introduction, and a unified explanation is given here, and will not be elaborated further below.

[0200] Figure 2b Shows a user plane protocol model from a terminal device to an application server.

[0201] In this protocol model, from top to bottom, it includes the application layer, the transport layer, the network layer (also known as the IP layer), the link layer, and the physical (PHY) layer.

[0202] In Figure 2b , the connection for sending and receiving data is located in the transport layer, which is an end-to-end protocol layer from the terminal device to the application server. Among them, the relevant protocols of the transport layer include the Quick User Datagram Protocol Internet Connection (QUIC) protocol and the User Datagram Protocol (UDP). Or, the relevant protocols of the transport layer include the UDP protocol. Or, the relevant protocols of the transport layer include the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), etc.

[0203] It is easy to understand that in some protocol division models, the QUIC protocol is divided into an application layer protocol rather than a transport layer protocol.

[0204] Below the network layer, it is composed of several different 3GPP network protocol stack connections from the terminal device to the access network device and from the access network device to the user plane function network element. Specifically, the 3GPP network protocol stack between the terminal device and the access device includes the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer, the Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, and each lower-layer protocol layer. Each lower-layer protocol layer includes the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, the Media Access Control (MAC) layer, and the Physical Layer. The 3GPP network protocol stack between the access network device and the user plane function network element includes the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) Tunnelling Protocol for the User Plane (GTP-U) layer and each lower-layer protocol layer. Each lower-layer protocol layer includes the User Datagram Protocol (UDP) layer / Internet Protocol (IP) layer, Layer 2 (L2), and Layer 1 (L1). Among them, the access network device and the user plane function network element belong to the 3GPP network.

[0205] Among them, the GTP-U layer includes GTP-U tunnels. The GTP-U tunnel is a connection tunnel between the access network device and the user plane function network element (such as Figure 2b the 5G-AN device and the UPF network element in the middle), that is, the data from / to the terminal device side is added to the GTP-U tunnel for transmission. The GTP-U tunnel is at the PDU session granularity, that is, for each PDU session, a GTP-U tunnel between the access network device and the user plane function network element is established.

[0206] To facilitate the understanding of the embodiments of the present application, the terms involved in the embodiments of the present application will be briefly described below. It should be understood that these descriptions are only for facilitating the understanding of the embodiments of the present application and should not constitute any limitation to the present application.

[0207] 1. Service Data Flow (SDF)

[0208] Generally, the service flow description information can be an SDF template (SDF template), that is, the service data stream is detected through the SDF template to determine which data belongs to the current SDF. Specifically, the service flow description information can include information such as the IP five-tuple or three-tuple of the service flow, such as the source IP address, source port number, destination IP address, or destination port number, etc.

[0209] 2. Quality of service flow (QoS flow)

[0210] In a fifth generation system (5GS) communication system, when the terminal device has a service communication requirement, a protocol data unit (PDU) session establishment will be performed, and the QoS flow specifically carries the service flow in the PDU session. For example, a PDU session can include one or more QoS flows, and each QoS flow is used to carry the service flow.

[0211] Specifically, the terminal device obtains an IP address through PDU session establishment to interact with an external application server to achieve service communication, and the 5GS maps the corresponding service data stream to different QoS flows based on service flow description information, such as the SDF template, and performs corresponding QoS processing.

[0212] 3. GTP-U tunnel

[0213] During the PDU session establishment process, the connection tunnel between the RAN device and the UPF network element includes a GTP-U tunnel, that is, the data from / to the terminal device side is added to the tunnel for sending. The GTP-U tunnel is at the PDU session granularity, that is, a GTP-U tunnel between the RAN device and the UPF network element will be established for each PDU session.

[0214] 4. QoS flow identifier (QFI)

[0215] The QFI is the unique identifier of different QoS flows within a PDU session. A QFI is used to identify a QoS flow in a PDU session.

[0216] 5. Bearer

[0217] A bearer refers to the radio connection resource established between the RAN device and the terminal device to represent different service qualities. Among them, the bearer between the terminal device and the RAN device can include multiple QoS flows.

[0218] 6. QoS Monitoring

[0219] To assist ultra-reliability low latency communication (uRLLC) services, 3GPP has defined the QoS monitoring feature to enable delay measurement at the packet granularity. The packet transmission delay between the terminal device and the PDU session anchor (PSA) UPF network element is used as the result of QoS monitoring. This transmission delay includes the delay between the terminal device and the RAN device on the air interface side and the transmission delay on the N3 link between the RAN device and the UPF network element. Among them, for the core network side, the measurement of the uplink (or downlink) packet transmission delay between the RAN device and the UPF network element can be carried out based on different granularities, such as measuring the transmission delay based on the single QoS flow granularity of a certain terminal device, or measuring the transmission delay based on the GTP-U tunnel granularity, etc. Which granularity to adopt specifically depends on the operator's policy, third-party application requests, or policy and charging control (PCC) rules.

[0220] Specifically, taking the QoS flow granularity as an example, in the PDU session establishment or PDU session modification process, the SMF network element activates the uplink (or downlink) transmission delay measurement for a certain QoS flow. The SMF network element sends a QoS monitoring request to the RAN device and the UPF network element. Among them, the QoS monitoring request includes QoS monitoring parameters. The RAN device and the UPF network element implement the N3 link packet delay measurement between them by adding timestamps, QoS monitoring indicators, etc. to GTP-U. The PSA UPF network element reports the measurement result to the SMF network element according to the QoS monitoring request sent by the SMF network element. For example, when the reporting threshold condition is met, the PSA UPF network element reports the measurement result to the SMF network element.

[0221] 7. Network Information Disclosure

[0222] Network information indicates the network status. For example, network information includes transmission delay, such as the transmission delay between the terminal device and the UPF network element. Specifically, it can be the uplink transmission delay, the downlink transmission delay, or the uplink and downlink loopback transmission delay. In addition, this network information can also refer to the congestion information on the network side, such as the congestion status between the RAN device and the terminal device.

[0223] Network information disclosure can be understood as providing network information to third-party applications.

[0224] In standard research, it is an important issue to be studied that the application layer perceives the network status or opens network information to the application side. For example, the application layer perceives the network status in real time and adjusts corresponding parameters to ensure the user's service experience and maximize the network utilization efficiency. However, traditional delay measurements (such as the transmission delay between the terminal device and the UPF network element) can no longer meet the requirements of the application layer. How to open more information is a key issue.

[0225] Correspondingly, network information can be opened to third-party applications through the control plane capability open interface. For example, it can be directly opened to third-party applications through the UPF service interface via the NEF network element, or the UPF network element sends network information to the SMF network element, and the SMF network element opens the network information to third-party applications through the NEF network element.

[0226] It should be noted that due to the security risks existing in the RAN device itself, generally the RAN device will not directly open the network information to the outside world. The RAN device needs to first inform the core network device, such as the UPF network element, of the monitored network information, and the UPF network element will open it to the outside world.

[0227] Alternatively, network information can also be opened to third-party applications in the form of the user plane. For example, the network information is added to the data packet and sent along the path to the terminal device side or the application server side.

[0228] However, in the related technologies, the measurement and opening of network information are only information within 3GPP, such as delay, transmission rate, congestion status, etc., and the QoS status of the N6 transmission path has not been considered. Among them, the N6 interface refers to the interface where the UPF network element accesses the DN. For details, see Figure 2a the introduction. The N6 transmission path refers to the transmission path between the UPF network element and the application server. The delay of the N6 transmission path can be understood as: the transmission delay between the UPF network element and the application server.

[0229] Take Figure 3 as an example. In end-to-end QoS guarantee, most only consider the transmission delay between the terminal device and the UPF network element, while ignoring the delay of the N6 transmission path, which affects the end-to-end service experience.

[0230] In summary, how to determine the transmission delay between the UPF network element and the application server is a technical problem to be solved urgently.

[0231] In view of this, the present application provides the following communication method. The communication method provided by the present application can be applied to Figure 1 or Figure 2a the system shown.

[0232] The communication method according to the embodiment of the present application includes: a first core network device receives a first data packet from an application server, and the first data packet includes first time information. The first core network device determines a first transmission delay according to the first time information, where the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The first core network device sends the first transmission delay to a second core network device or a fourth core network device.

[0233] Wherein, the first time information can have various forms. For example, the first time information can be: the moment when the application server sends the first data packet. For another example, the first time information includes the following two items of information: the moment when the first core network device sends a second data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the second data packet. For another example, the first time information includes the following three items of information: the moment when the first core network device sends a second data packet, the moment when the application server receives the second data packet, and the moment when the application server sends the first data packet. For another example, the first time information includes the following two items of information: the moment when the terminal device sends a third data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet. The first time information, the second data packet, and the third data packet can be seen in the introduction of S507 and will not be elaborated here.

[0234] That is to say, after the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, it can determine the first transmission delay according to the first time information carried in the first data packet. In this way, the first core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0235] When the first core network device provides the first transmission delay to other core network devices (such as the second core network device), it can enable other core network devices to perform QoS parameter adjustment based on the terminal device, the first core network device, and the first transmission delay, such as adjusting parameters such as packet delay budget (PDB) or PDU Set delay budget (PSDB). That is to say, as Figure 4 shown, based on the communication method of the present application, during the end-to-end QoS guarantee process, the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device can be referred to, and the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server can also be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0236] When the first core network device provides the first transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the fourth core network device, it can be understood that: the network state is opened to the outside through the first core network device. In this way, the fourth core network device can perform application layer dynamic adjustment based on the first transmission delay, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0237] It should be understood that the message names between various devices or the names of various parameters in the message in the following embodiments of the present application are only examples, and in specific implementations, they can also be other names. The embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations on this. A unified description is made here and will not be repeated later.

[0238] Next, in combination with Figure 5 , the communication method proposed in the embodiments of the present application will be introduced in detail. The communication method 500 proposed in the embodiments of the present application includes the following operations:

[0239] S501. Optionally, the fourth core network device determines the first indication information.

[0240] Among them, the fourth core network device may be an application function network element. Taking the 5G communication system as an example, the fourth core network device is an AF network element.

[0241] Among them, the introduction of the first indication information is as follows:

[0242] The first indication information indicates to determine the first transmission delay. Among them, the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. Taking the first core network device as a user plane function network element (such as a UPF network element) as an example, the first transmission delay can be understood as: the delay of the N6 transmission path, which can be denoted as the N6 delay.

[0243] Optionally, the first transmission delay can be denoted as N6 UL latency, that is, the uplink transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server. Or, the first transmission delay can be denoted as N6 DL latency, that is, the downlink transmission delay from the application server to the first core network device.

[0244] Optionally, the first indication information further indicates that the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment. Among them, the QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following:

[0245] The first item is the packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, such as PDB, so as to achieve QoS dynamic control at the PDU granularity. Optionally, the PDB can be UL PDB or DL PDB.

[0246] The second item is the packet set delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device, such as PSDB, so as to achieve QoS dynamic control at the PDU Set granularity. Optionally, the PSDB can be UL PSDB or DL PSDB.

[0247] In the present application, for the QoS parameter adjustment based on the first transmission delay, reference can be made to the introduction in S511, which will not be elaborated here.

[0248] Optionally, the first indication information further indicates at least one of the following:

[0249] The first item, the measurement method of the first transmission delay.

[0250] For example, the measurement method indicated by the first indication information is: determining the first transmission delay based on the real-time transport protocol (RTP) header. It can be understood that the first transmission delay is determined by the first time information carried in the RTP header of the downlink data packet (such as the following first data packet). For specific details, refer to the descriptions of S507 and S508, which will not be elaborated here.

[0251] Alternatively, the measurement method indicated by the first indication information is: determining the first transmission delay based on the feedback report of the real-time transport control protocol (RTCP). It can be understood that the first transmission delay is determined by the first time information carried in the feedback report of RTCP in the downlink data packet (such as the following first data packet). For specific details, refer to the descriptions of S507 and S508, which will not be elaborated here. Optionally, when the measurement method indicated by the first indication information is based on the feedback report of RTCP, the first indication information further indicates the method of monitoring the uplink RTCP feedback report, such as informing the data type (Packet Type) of the RTCP feedback report.

[0252] Alternatively, the measurement method indicated by the first indication information is: determining the first transmission delay based on the RTP extension header. It can be understood that the first transmission delay is determined by the first time information carried in the RTP extension header of the downlink data packet (such as the following first data packet).

[0253] Again, for example, the measurement method indicated by the first indication information is: determining the first transmission delay based on the first tunnel. The first tunnel is a tunnel between the first core network device and the application server, such as denoted as the N6 tunnel. This measurement method can be understood as determining the first transmission delay by the first time information carried in the first protocol layer of the downlink data packet (such as the following first data packet). The first protocol layer is the protocol layer corresponding to the first tunnel. The first indication information further includes the information required for establishing the first tunnel, such as the endpoint information of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel.

[0254] The second item, the measurement period of the first transmission delay. For example, the measurement period is 10 ms.

[0255] The third item, the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay.

[0256] The fourth item, the transmission period or reporting period of the first transmission delay. For example, the measurement period is 10 ms.

[0257] Item 5, the sending trigger condition of the first transmission delay. For example, if the change amount of the first transmission delay exceeds a certain threshold, the reporting of the first transmission delay is triggered.

[0258] Optionally, the first indication information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel. For example, the first indication information indicates the tunnel endpoint identifier on the application server side of the first tunnel, such as the IP address on the application server side, the tunnel protocol, etc. When the first indication information indicates the measurement method of the first delay and the measurement method is to determine the first transmission delay based on the first tunnel, the first indication information further indicates the information required for the establishment of the first tunnel, that is, the endpoints of the first tunnel. The endpoints of the first tunnel are used for the establishment of the first tunnel.

[0259] Optionally, the first indication information further indicates: the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel. For example, the first tunnel is established for the first service flow, that is, it is detected that the first service flow triggers the creation of the first tunnel. In this case, the first indication information indicates the service identifier of the first service flow, the IP five-tuple identifier or the three-tuple identifier, etc. When the first indication information indicates the endpoints of the first tunnel, the first indication information also indicates the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel.

[0260] Optionally, the first indication information further indicates: feedback the first transmission delay, such as for indicating that the fourth core network device opens the first transmission delay. Further, the first indication information further includes the endpoint information of the fourth core network device, and the endpoint information is used to send the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device. In this case, the communication method of the embodiment of the present application further includes S512 or S513, which will not be elaborated here.

[0261] It should be noted that S501 is an optional step. For example, in the case where the fourth core network device triggers the determination of the first transmission delay, the fourth core network device executes S501. Another example is that in the case where other core network devices other than the fourth core network device trigger the determination of the first transmission delay, the fourth core network device does not execute S501.

[0262] For the fourth core network device, after the fourth core network device determines the first indication information, it executes S502:

[0263] S502. Optionally, the fourth core network device sends the first indication information to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the first indication information from the fourth core network device.

[0264] Among them, for the first indication information, reference can be made to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0265] Among them, the third core network device may be a policy control network element. Taking the 5G communication system as an example, the third core network device is a PCF network element.

[0266] Exemplarily, the first indication information is included in the AF request. Specifically, the AF network element may send the above first indication information to the PCF network element through the NEF network element.

[0267] It should be noted that S502 is an optional step. For example, the above first indication information may be pre-configured on the third core network device side. In this case, S502 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator itself or based on the negotiation between the operator and a third-party application.

[0268] For the third core network device, after obtaining the first indication information, S503 is executed:

[0269] S503. Optionally, the third core network device determines the first policy information according to the first indication information.

[0270] Among them, the introduction of the first policy information is as follows:

[0271] The first policy information indicates the determination of the first transmission delay. Regarding the first transmission delay, reference can be made to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0272] Optionally, the first policy information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the sending period of the first transmission delay, or the sending trigger condition of the first transmission delay. Reference can be made to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0273] Optionally, the first policy information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel. Reference can be made to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0274] Optionally, the first policy information further indicates: feedback of the first transmission delay. For example, the first policy information is used to indicate sending the first transmission delay to the third core network device. In this case, the communication method of the embodiment of the present application further includes S509 and S510 to feedback the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device through the third core network device, as shown in S513 and will not be elaborated here for the time being. Exemplarily, the first policy information is included in the PCC rule.

[0275] It should be noted that S503 is an optional step. For example, the first policy information is pre-configured on the third core network device side. In this case, S503 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator itself or based on the negotiation between the operator and a third-party application.

[0276] For the third core network device, after determining the first policy information, S504 is executed:

[0277] S504. Optionally, the third core network device sends first policy information to the second core network device. Correspondingly, the second core network device receives the first policy information from the third core network device.

[0278] The first policy information can be referred to the introduction in S503 and will not be elaborated here.

[0279] The second core network device may be a session management function network element. Taking a 5G communication system as an example, the second core network device is an SMF network element.

[0280] It should be noted that S504 is an optional step. For example, the first policy information is pre-configured on the second core network device side. In this case, S504 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator itself or based on the negotiation between the operator and a third-party application.

[0281] S505. Optionally, the second core network device determines first configuration information according to the first policy information.

[0282] The introduction of the first configuration information is as follows:

[0283] The first configuration information indicates to determine a first transmission delay.

[0284] Optionally, the first configuration information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the transmission period of the first transmission delay, or the transmission trigger condition of the first transmission delay. It can be referred to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0285] Optionally, the first configuration information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel. It can be referred to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0286] Optionally, the first configuration information further indicates: feedback the first transmission delay, such as for indicating reporting the first transmission delay to the second core network device. In this case, the communication method of the embodiment of the present application further includes S509, which will not be elaborated here.

[0287] Exemplarily, the first configuration information includes an N6 delay measurement configuration and a packet detection rule (PDR). The N6 delay measurement configuration may include: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, the measurement period of the first transmission delay, the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, the transmission period of the first transmission delay, the transmission trigger condition of the first transmission delay. The PDR is used for the first core network device to determine the service flow to be detected.

[0288] It should be noted that S505 is an optional step. For example, the above first configuration information may be pre-configured on the second core network device side. In this case, S505 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator himself or based on the negotiation between the operator and the third-party application.

[0289] For the second core network device, after determining the first configuration information, the second core network device executes S506:

[0290] S506. The second core network device sends the first configuration information to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the first configuration information from the second core network device.

[0291] Among them, for the introduction of the first configuration information, reference can be made to the introduction of S505 and will not be elaborated here.

[0292] Among them, the first core network device may be a user plane management function network element. Taking the 5G communication system as an example, the first core network device is a UPF network element.

[0293] For the first core network device, the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first configuration information. Specifically, the communication method 500 of the embodiment of the present application further includes the following steps:

[0294] S507. The application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server.

[0295] Among them, the first data packet includes first time information.

[0296] The introduction of the first time information is as follows:

[0297] Example 1. The first time information may be the moment when the application server sends the first data packet, such as denoted as T 1-1 .

[0298] It should be noted that taking the first data packet including media data as an example, the first data packet may also be called a media data packet. The moment when the application server sends the first data packet may refer to: the sampling generation moment of the above media data, that is, the encoding generation moment of the media data packet. That is to say, the time difference between the encoding moment and the sending moment of the media data packet is negligible. Among them, the sending moment (T 1-1 ) of the first data packet may be carried on the RTP layer of the first data packet. Exemplarily, it corresponds to the timestamp information of the RTP layer.

[0299] Example 2. Before S507, the communication method of the present application further includes the following step a:

[0300] Step a: The first core network device sends a second data packet to the application server. Correspondingly, the application server receives the second data packet from the first core network device. The second data packet includes the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet.

[0301] That is to say, for the application server, the application server receives the second data packet from the first core network device and then sends the first data packet. That is, step a is executed first, and then S507 is executed.

[0302] In Example 2, as a possible implementation, the first time information of the first data packet includes the following two items of information: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), and the time when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ).

[0303] In Example 2, as another possible implementation, the first time information of the first data packet includes the following three items of information: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), the time when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ), and the time when the application server sends the first data packet (denoted as T 2-3 ).

[0304] It should be noted that in Example 2, the relationship between the first data packet and the second data packet is introduced as follows:

[0305] In terms of timing, the application server first receives the second data packet and then sends the first data packet. In this way, for the application server, the first data packet can carry the first time information (such as the above T 2-1 and T 2-2 , or the above T 2-1 , T 2-2 and T 2-3 ) so that the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay based on the first time information.

[0306] In addition, the first data packet can be a service data packet, such as a service data packet sent by the application server to the terminal device through the first core network device. The second data packet can also be a service data packet, such as a service data packet sent by the terminal device to the application server through the first core network device. Among them, the first data packet and the second data packet can belong to data packets of the same service or different services, and this application does not make any limitations.

[0307] Or, the second data packet can also be: a data packet that is only transmitted between the first core network device and the application server, that is, the second data packet is sent from the first core network device to the application server.

[0308] It should be added that, as a possible example, the second data packet further includes indication information X. Among them, the indication information X is used to indicate the following two pieces of information carried in the first data packet: the time when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), and the time when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ). In this case, after the application server receives the second data packet, in response to the indication information X, the application server adds the above two pieces of time information (i.e., the above T 2-1 and T 2-2 ) to the first data packet. In this way, the first data packet sent by the application server carries the above two pieces of time information (i.e., the above T 2-1 and T 2-2 ).

[0309] Example 3, before S507, the communication method of this application further includes: the terminal device sends a third data packet to the application server. Correspondingly, the application server receives the third data packet from the terminal device. Specifically, it includes the following steps b and step c:

[0310] Step b, the terminal device sends the third data packet to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the third data packet from the terminal device. Among them, the third data packet includes: the time when the terminal device sends the third data packet.

[0311] Step c, the first core network device sends the third data packet to the application server, and correspondingly, the application server receives the third data packet from the first core network device.

[0312] In this case, for the application server, the application server receives the third data packet from the terminal device and then sends the first data packet, that is, first executes step c and then executes S507. In this case, the first time information of the first data packet includes the following two pieces of information: the time when the terminal device sends the third data packet (denoted as T 3-1 ), and the time when the application server receives the third data packet (denoted as T 3-2 ).

[0313] It should be noted that in Example 3, the relationship between the first data packet and the third data packet is introduced as follows:

[0314] In terms of time sequence, the application server first receives the third data packet and then sends the first data packet. In this way, for the application server, the first data packet can carry the first time information (such as the above T 3-1 and T 3-2 ) so that the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay based on the first time information.

[0315] In addition, the first data packet may be a service data packet, such as a service data packet sent by an application server to a terminal device through a first core network device. The third data packet may also be a service data packet, such as a service data packet sent by the terminal device to the application server through the first core network device. The first data packet and the third data packet may belong to data packets of the same service.

[0316] It should be added that, as a possible example, the third data packet further includes indication information Y. Among them, the indication information Y is used to indicate that the following information is carried in the first data packet: the time when the terminal device sends the third data packet (denoted as T 3-1 ). In this case, after the application server receives the third data packet, in response to the indication information Y, the application server adds the above time information (i.e., the above T 3-1 ) to the first data packet. In this way, the first data packet sent by the application server carries the above time information (i.e., the above T 3-1 ).

[0317] Optionally, the first time information is carried at the following positions:

[0318] As a possible implementation manner, for RTP or RTCP, the carrying manner of the first time information is as follows:

[0319] Method 1, the first time information is carried in the RTP header of the first data packet.

[0320] Taking Figure 6 as an example, the first time information is a timestamp, and this timestamp is carried in the RTP header.

[0321] Method 2, the first time information is carried in the sender report (SR) field of the RTCP of the first data packet.

[0322] Taking Figure 7 as an example, the first time information is a timestamp, and this timestamp is carried in the SR field of the RTCP. In Figure 7 , the PT field, that is, the Packet Type field, is used to indicate the specific type of RTCP. When PT = 200, it indicates that the RTCP carries the SR field, that is, sender info.

[0323] Method 3, the first time information is carried in the RTP extension header of the first data packet.

[0324] Taking Figure 8 as an example, the first time information is a timestamp, and this timestamp is carried in the RTP extension header.

[0325] As another possible implementation, for the case of establishing the first tunnel, the carrying manner of the first time information is as follows:

[0326] Method 4, the first time information is carried in the first protocol layer of the first data packet. Among them, the first protocol layer is the protocol layer of the tunnel between the first core network device and the application server.

[0327] It should be noted that when the measurement method of the first transmission delay is: determining the first transmission delay based on the RTP header, the first time information is carried in the RTP header of the first data packet. When the measurement method of the first transmission delay is: determining the first transmission delay based on the feedback report of RTCP, the first time information is carried in the SR field of RTCP in the first data packet. When the measurement method of the first transmission delay is: determining the first transmission delay based on the extended header of RTP, the first time information is carried in the RTP extended header of the first data packet. When the measurement method of the first transmission delay is: determining the first transmission delay based on the first tunnel, the first time information is carried in the first protocol layer of the first data packet.

[0328] It should be noted that when the measurement method of the first transmission delay is: determining the first transmission delay based on the first tunnel, for the first core network device, after receiving the first configuration information, the first core network device first establishes the first tunnel and then executes S507. The establishment process of the first tunnel can refer to the related technology and will not be elaborated here.

[0329] For the first core network device, after receiving the first data packet, the first core network device executes S508:

[0330] S508. The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information.

[0331] Among them, the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. For the introduction of S501, please refer to it and will not be elaborated here.

[0332] Exemplarily, the implementation process of S508 includes:

[0333] Example 1, the first time information is: the moment when the application server sends the first data packet, denoted as T 1-1 .

[0334] In this case, S508 includes: the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the moment when the application server sends the first data packet (denoted as T 1-1 ) and the moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet (denoted as T 1-2 ).

[0335] For example, the first transmission delay: T = T1-2 -T 1-1 Among them, T represents the first transmission delay. T 1-1 represents the moment when the application server sends the first data packet. T 1-2 represents the moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

[0336] Example 2-1, the first time information includes the following two items of information: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), and the moment when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ).

[0337] In this case, S508 includes: the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), and the moment when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ).

[0338] For example, the first transmission delay: T = T 2-2 -T 2-1 . Among them, T represents the first transmission delay. T 2-1 represents the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet. T 2-2 represents the moment when the application server receives the second data packet.

[0339] Example 2-2, the first time information includes the following three items of information: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), the moment when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ), and the moment when the application server sends the first data packet (denoted as T 2-3 ).

[0340] In this case, S508 includes: the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet (denoted as T 2-1 ), the moment when the application server receives the second data packet (denoted as T 2-2 ), the moment when the application server sends the first data packet (denoted as T 2-3 ), and the moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet (denoted as T 2-4 ).

[0341] For example, the first transmission delay: T = (T 2-2 -T 2-1 +T 2-4 -T 2-3 ) / 2. Among them, T represents the first transmission delay. T 2-1Indicates the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet. T 2-2 Indicates the moment when the application server receives the second data packet. T 2-3 Indicates the moment when the application server sends the first data packet. T 2-4 Indicates the moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

[0342] Example 3, the first time information includes the following two items of information: the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet (denoted as T 3-1 ), and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet (denoted as T 3-2 ).

[0343] In this case, S508 includes: when the first data packet and the third data packet include the same moment, and the same moment is the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the moment when the first core network device sends the third data packet (denoted as T 3-3 ), and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet (denoted as T 3-2 ).

[0344] Among them, the first data packet and the third data packet include the same moment, and the same moment is the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, which means that there is an association relationship between the first data packet and the third data packet. For example, the first data packet carries 'the moment when the application server receives the third data packet'. In this case, the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay according to the moment when it sends the third data packet and 'the moment when the application server receives the third data packet' carried by the first data packet.

[0345] For example, the first transmission delay: T = T 3-2 - T 3-3 . Among them, T represents the first transmission delay. T 3-3 represents the moment when the first core network device sends the third data packet. T 3-2 represents the moment when the application server receives the third data packet. At this time, the first transmission delay can also be the uplink N6 delay.

[0346] It should be understood that in this application, the first core network device can determine the first transmission delay by combining the time information carried in multiple data packets. For example, the first core network device performs the first measurement, that is, determines a transmission delay according to the time information carried in a first data packet. Then, the first core network device performs the second measurement, that is, determines a second transmission delay according to the time information carried in the second first data packet. And so on, repeating the measurement N times. Then, the average value (or minimum value, or maximum value) of the transmission delays determined by the N measurements is used as the above-mentioned first transmission delay, which is not limited in this application. N is a positive integer greater than or equal to 2.

[0347] For the first core network device, after determining the first transmission delay, it performs S509:

[0348] S509. Optionally, the first core network device sends the first transmission delay to the second core network device. Correspondingly, the second core network device receives the first transmission delay from the first core network device.

[0349] Among them, for the introduction of the first transmission delay, reference can be made to the description in S508, and details will not be elaborated here.

[0350] For example, in the case where the first configuration information indicates the sending period of the first transmission delay, the first core network device sends the first transmission delay to the second core network device according to the sending period indicated by the first configuration information.

[0351] For another example, in the case where the first configuration information indicates the sending trigger condition of the first transmission delay, for example, the sending trigger condition is: perform the 'transmission delay reporting' operation when the transmission delay is greater than (or equal to) the first threshold. In this case, if the first transmission delay is greater than (or equal to) the first threshold, the first core network device sends the first transmission delay to the second core network device. Conversely, if the first transmission delay is less than the first threshold, the first core network device does not send the first transmission delay.

[0352] Optionally, the second core network device adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay. For example, the QoS parameters to be adjusted include PDB to achieve QoS dynamic control at the PDU granularity; for another example, the QoS parameters to be adjusted include PSDB to achieve QoS dynamic control at the PDUSet granularity. Or the second core network device triggers the rediscovery or migration of the edge application server according to the first transmission delay. For example, if the current first transmission delay is too long (i.e., the N6 delay is too long), it means that the link quality between the current application server and the UPF network element is poor. The second core network device can trigger the application side to select a new edge application server or migrate to a new edge application server.

[0353] It should be noted that S509 is an optional step. In S509, the first core network device provides the first transmission delay to the second core network device. In the case where S509 is not executed, as a possible implementation, the second core network device can also obtain the first transmission delay from the fourth core network device. Among them, the fourth core network device can be an application function network element, such as an AF network element. As another possible implementation, the second core network device can also obtain the first transmission delay from the fifth core network device. Among them, the fifth core network device can be a network data analysis function network element, such as an NWDAF network element. In other words, in this application, for the second core network device, the second core network device can obtain the first transmission delay from the first core network device, the fourth core network device, or the fifth core network device.

[0354] S510. Optionally, the second core network device sends the first transmission delay to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the first transmission delay from the second core network device.

[0355] S511. Optionally, the third core network device adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

[0356] For example, the QoS parameter to be adjusted includes PDB to achieve QoS dynamic control at the PDU granularity.

[0357] For another example, the QoS parameter to be adjusted includes PSDB to achieve QoS dynamic control at the PDU Set granularity.

[0358] Optionally, in some embodiments, such as when the first indication information indicates that the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment, S511 includes: in response to the first indication information, the third core network device adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay to achieve QoS dynamic control at different granularities.

[0359] Optionally, in some embodiments, such as when the first indication information indicates that the first transmission delay is fed back, the communication method of this application further includes the following steps:

[0360] For example, for the first core network device, after the first core network device executes S508, it executes S512:

[0361] S512. Optionally, the first core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device. Correspondingly, the fourth core network device receives the first transmission delay from the first core network device.

[0362] That is to say, the first core network device feeds back the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device to achieve network information opening.

[0363] Optionally, the fourth core network device triggers rediscovery of the edge application server or migration of the edge application server according to the first transmission delay. For example, if the current first transmission delay is too long (i.e., the N6 delay is too long), it means that the link quality between the current application server and the UPF network element is poor. The fourth core network device can trigger the selection of a new edge application server or migration to a new edge application server.

[0364] For another example, for the third core network device, after executing S510, it executes S513:

[0365] S513. Optionally, the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device. Correspondingly, the fourth core network device receives the first transmission delay from the third core network device.

[0366] That is to say, the third core network device feeds back the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device to achieve network information openness.

[0367] Optionally, the fourth core network device triggers rediscovery of the edge application server or migration of the edge application server according to the first transmission delay. For example, if the current first transmission delay is too long (i.e., the N6 delay is too long), it means that the link quality between the current application server and the UPF network element is poor. The fourth core network device can trigger the selection of a new edge application server or migration to a new edge application server.

[0368] It should be noted that in this application, S512 and S513 are optional steps. Specifically, for example, when the first core network device executes S512, the first core network device may not execute S513. Or, conversely, when the first core network device executes S513, the first core network device may not execute S512. This application does not make any restrictions on this.

[0369] The following combines Figure 9 with the examples shown in Figure 5 to detail the specific implementation of the communication method shown in

[0370] Figure 9 is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided by the embodiment of this application. Among them, Figure 5 the first core network device in Figure 9 can be the UPF network element shown in Figure 5 the second core network device in Figure 9 can be the SMF network element shown in Figure 5 the third core network device in Figure 9 can be the PCF network element shown in Figure 5 the fourth core network device in Figure 9The AF network element shown in Figure 5 The application server in Figure 9 can be the AS shown in

[0371] Specifically, in Figure 9 the communication method of the embodiment of the present application includes the following steps:

[0372] S901. Optionally, the AF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AF request from the AF network element.

[0373] Among them, the AF request includes service flow description information (such as SDF) and first indication information.

[0374] The service flow description information is used to indicate the description information of the service flow corresponding to the application, such as IP five-tuple, IP three-tuple, application identity (APP ID), etc., to assist the network side in determining that the data packet is the service flow data packet of the corresponding application according to the service flow description information.

[0375] For the first indication information, reference can be made to the introduction in S501, which will not be elaborated here.

[0376] It should be understood that in the present application, the implementation process of S901 may include:

[0377] As a possible implementation manner, when the AF network element is in the trusted domain, the AF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element, that is, the AF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element by invoking the service interface of the PCF network element, such as the Npcf_PolicyAuthorization service interface.

[0378] As another possible implementation manner, when the AF network element is in the non-trusted domain, the AF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element through the NEF network element, that is, the AF network element sends an AF request to the NEF network element by invoking the service interface of the NEF network element, such as the Nnef_AFSessionWithQoS service interface, and the NEF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element by invoking the service interface of the PCF, such as the Npcf_PolicyAuthorization service interface.

[0379] S902. Optionally, when the terminal device initiates a PDU session establishment process, the terminal device sends a PDU session establishment request (PDU Session Establishment Request) to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the PDU session establishment request from the terminal device.

[0380] Among them, the PDU session establishment request is used to request the establishment of a PDU session.

[0381] S903. Optionally, the AMF network element sends a PDU session establishment request to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PDU session establishment request from the AMF network element.

[0382] Exemplarily, for the implementation processes of S902 and S903, reference may be made to the related art and will not be elaborated here.

[0383] It should be understood that the above PDU session establishment request can also be replaced with: a PDU session modification request (PDU Session Modification Request). For example, in the case where the terminal device initiates a PDU session modification process, the terminal device sends a PDU session modification request to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the PDU session modification request from the terminal device. The AMF network element sends a PDU session modification request to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PDU session modification request from the AMF network element. The PDU session modification request is used to request the modification of the PDU session. Reference may be made to the related art and will not be elaborated here.

[0384] S904. Optionally, the PCF network element generates a PCC rule according to the AF request.

[0385] Optionally, the PCF network element generates a PCC rule according to the AF request and / or local configuration.

[0386] The PCC rule includes first policy information. The first policy information can be referred to the introduction in S503 and will not be elaborated here.

[0387] S905. Optionally, the PCF network element sends the PCC rule to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PCC rule from the PCF network element.

[0388] For example, in the case where the terminal device initiates a PDU session establishment process (i.e., executes S902), the SMF network element initiates a session management policy association establishment process (SM Policy Association procedure) and obtains the PCC rule from the PCF network element through the SM Policy Association procedure.

[0389] For another example, in the case where the terminal device initiates a PDU session modification process, the SMF network element initiates a session management policy association modification process and obtains the PCC rule from the PCF network element through the session management policy association modification process.

[0390] For another example, in the case where the terminal device does not initiate the PDU session establishment and modification process, the PCF network element initiates a session management policy association modification process and sends PCC rules to the SMF network element through the session management policy association modification process.

[0391] For the SMF network element, after obtaining the PCC rules, the SMF network element executes S906:

[0392] S906. Optionally, the SMF network element determines the first configuration information according to the PCC rules and / or local configuration.

[0393] Among them, the introduction of the first configuration information can be referred to in the description of S505 and will not be elaborated here.

[0394] S907. Optionally, the SMF network element sends the first configuration information to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first configuration information from the SMF network element.

[0395] Exemplarily, the SMF network element sends the first configuration information to the UPF network element through the N4 interface.

[0396] For example, the SMF network element sends the first configuration information to the UPF network element through the N4 Session Establishment process. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first configuration information from the SMF network element through the N4 Session Establishment process.

[0397] For another example, the SMF network element sends the first configuration information to the UPF network element through the N4 Session Modification process. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first configuration information from the SMF network element through the N4 Session Modification process.

[0398] For the terminal device, AMF network element, SMF network element, and UPF network element, S908 is also executed:

[0399] S908. Optionally, in the case of executing the PDU session establishment process, the terminal device, AMF network element, SMF network element, and UPF network element execute the remaining steps for PDU Session Establishment process.

[0400] Among them, the PDU Session Establishment process can be referred to in the relevant 3GPP technical specifications and will not be elaborated here.

[0401] It should be understood that in the case of executing the PDU session modification procedure, the terminal device, the AMF network element, the SMF network element, and the UPF network element execute the remaining steps for PDU Session Modification procedure.

[0402] Among them, for the PDU Session Modification procedure, reference can be made to the relevant 3GPP technical specifications and will not be elaborated here.

[0403] Next, the determination process of the first transmission delay will be introduced:

[0404] For different determination methods (or measurement methods), the following three cases will be introduced:

[0405] Case 1: The RTP header of the first data packet includes the first time information. In this case, the communication method of this application further includes the following steps:

[0406] S909a: The application server AS sends the first data packet to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first data packet from the application server AS.

[0407] Among them, the RTP header of the first data packet includes the first time information, and the first time information is: the moment when the application server AS sends the first data packet. For the introduction of the first time information, reference can be made to Method 1 in S507 and will not be elaborated here.

[0408] S910a: The UPF network element determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information and the reception moment of the first data packet.

[0409] Among them, for the implementation process of S910a, reference can be made to the introduction in S508 and will not be elaborated here.

[0410] Case 2: The SR field in the RTCP header of the first data packet includes the first time information. In this case, the communication method of this application further includes the following steps:

[0411] S909b: The application server AS sends the first data packet to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first data packet from the application server AS.

[0412] Among them, the SR field in the RTCP header of the first data packet includes the first time information, and the first time information is: the moment when the application server AS sends the first data packet. For the introduction of the first time information, reference can be made to Method 2 in S507 and will not be elaborated here.

[0413] S910b: The UPF network element determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information and the reception moment of the first data packet.

[0414] Among them, for the implementation process of S910b, please refer to the introduction of S508, which will not be elaborated here.

[0415] Case 3: The RTP extension header of the first data packet includes first time information. In this case, the communication method of this application further includes the following steps:

[0416] S909c: The application server AS sends the first data packet to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first data packet from the application server AS.

[0417] Among them, the RTP extension header of the first data packet includes first time information, and the first time information is: the moment when the application server AS sends the first data packet. For the first time information, please refer to the introduction of Method 3 in S507, which will not be elaborated here.

[0418] S910c: The UPF network element determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information and the reception moment of the first data packet.

[0419] Among them, for the implementation process of S910c, please refer to the introduction of S508, which will not be elaborated here.

[0420] For the UPF network element, after obtaining the first transmission delay, the UPF network element executes S911:

[0421] S911: Optionally, the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the first transmission delay from the UPF network element.

[0422] For example, the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the SMF network element according to the first configuration information, or the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the SMF network element according to the first configuration information and the local configuration. For details, please refer to the introduction of S509, which will not be elaborated here.

[0423] For another example, the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the SMF network element through the N4 session message.

[0424] Optionally, the SMF network element can adjust the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay, and at this time, S912 - S913 do not need to be executed.

[0425] S912: Optionally, the SMF network element sends the first transmission delay to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the first transmission delay from the SMF network element.

[0426] Among them, for the implementation process of S912, please refer to the introduction of S510, which will not be elaborated here.

[0427] S913. Optionally, the PCF network element adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

[0428] For the implementation process of S913, refer to the introduction of S511, which will not be elaborated here.

[0429] S914. Optionally, the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first transmission delay from the UPF network element. Specifically, the UPF network element is opened through the Nupf_EventExposure service, or the first transmission delay is opened to the AF network element through the NEF network element.

[0430] S915. Optionally, the PCF network element sends the first transmission delay to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first transmission delay from the PCF network element.

[0431] The following combines Figure 10 with the examples shown in Figure 5 to detail the specific implementation of the communication method shown in

[0432] Figure 10 is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application. Among them, Figure 5 the first core network device in Figure 10 can be the UPF network element shown in Figure 5 the second core network device in Figure 10 can be the SMF network element shown in Figure 5 the third core network device in Figure 10 can be the PCF network element shown in Figure 5 the fourth core network device in Figure 10 can be the AF network element shown in Figure 5 the application server in Figure 10 can be the AS shown in

[0433] Specifically, in Figure 10 the communication method of the embodiment of the present application includes the following steps:

[0434] S1001. Optionally, the AF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AF request from the AF network element.

[0435] Among them, the AF request includes service flow description information (such as SDF) and the first indication information.

[0436] For the service flow description information, refer to the introduction of S901, which will not be elaborated here.

[0437] It should be noted that in S1001, the first indication information also indicates the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the trigger condition for establishing the first tunnel. For details, refer to the introduction in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0438] S1002. Optionally, when the terminal device initiates a PDU session establishment process, the terminal device sends a PDU Session Establishment Request to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the PDU session establishment request from the terminal device.

[0439] Among them, the PDU session establishment request is used to request the establishment of a PDU session.

[0440] S1003. Optionally, the AMF network element sends a PDU session establishment request to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PDU session establishment request from the AMF network element.

[0441] S1004. Optionally, the PCF network element generates a PCC rule according to the AF request.

[0442] Optionally, the PCF network element generates a PCC rule according to the AF request and local configuration.

[0443] Among them, the PCC rule includes first policy information. For details of the first policy information, refer to the introduction in S503 and will not be elaborated here.

[0444] It should be noted that in S1004, the first policy information also indicates the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the trigger condition for establishing the first tunnel. For details, refer to the introduction in S503 and will not be elaborated here.

[0445] S1005. Optionally, the PCF network element sends the PCC rule to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PCC rule from the PCF network element.

[0446] For the SMF network element, after obtaining the PCC rule, the SMF network element executes S1006:

[0447] S1006. Optionally, the SMF network element determines the first configuration information according to the PCC rule.

[0448] Among them, for details of the first configuration information, refer to the introduction in S505 and will not be elaborated here.

[0449] It should be noted that in S1006, the first configuration information also indicates the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the trigger condition for establishing the first tunnel. For details, refer to the introduction in S505 and will not be elaborated here.

[0450] S1007. Optionally, the SMF network element sends first configuration information to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first configuration information from the SMF network element.

[0451] For the terminal device, the AMF network element, the SMF network element, and the UPF network element, S1008 is further performed:

[0452] S1008. Optionally, in the case of performing the PDU session establishment process, the terminal device, the AMF network element, the SMF network element, and the UPF network element perform the remaining steps for PDU Session Establishment process.

[0453] Among them, for the PDU Session Establishment process, reference can be made to the relevant technical specifications of 3GPP, which will not be elaborated here.

[0454] Among them, for the implementation processes of S1001 - S1008, reference can be made to the introduction of S901 - S908, which will not be elaborated here.

[0455] S1009. The UPF network element triggers the establishment of the first tunnel.

[0456] Exemplarily, when the first configuration information further indicates the trigger condition for the establishment of the first tunnel, for example, establishing the first tunnel for the first traffic flow, that is, detecting that the first traffic flow triggers the creation of the first tunnel. In this case, the first indication information indicates the service identifier, IP five-tuple identifier, or three-tuple identifier, etc. of the first traffic flow. If the UPF network element detects the traffic flow of the first service, such as identifying the IP five-tuple identifier or three-tuple identifier of the traffic flow, it triggers the establishment of the first tunnel.

[0457] S1010. The UPF network element and the application server AS establish the first tunnel.

[0458] Exemplarily, the first indication information indicates the tunnel endpoint identifier on the application server side of the first tunnel, such as the IP address on the application server side, the tunnel protocol, etc. In this case, the UPF network element and the application server AS establish the first tunnel according to the identifier indicated by the first indication information.

[0459] Among them, for the implementation process of S1010, reference can be made to the relevant technologies, which will not be elaborated here.

[0460] S1011. The UPF network element sends a second data packet to the application server AS. Correspondingly, the application server AS receives the second data packet from the UPF network element.

[0461] Among them, the second data packet includes: the moment when the UPF network element sends the second data packet, such as the first protocol layer in which this moment is carried in the second data packet. Among them, the first protocol layer is the protocol layer corresponding to the first tunnel.

[0462] S1012. The application server AS sends a first data packet to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first data packet from the application server AS.

[0463] Among them, the first time information of the first data packet includes the following two items: the moment when the UPF network element sends the second data packet, and the moment when the application server AS receives the second data packet.

[0464] Alternatively, the first time information of the first data packet includes the following three items: the moment when the UPF network element sends the second data packet, the moment when the application server AS receives the second data packet, and the moment when the application server AS sends the first data packet.

[0465] Among them, the first time information is carried in the first protocol layer of the first data packet.

[0466] S1013. The UPF network element determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information and the reception moment of the first data packet.

[0467] Among them, for the implementation process of S1013, refer to the introduction of S508 and will not be elaborated here.

[0468] S1014. Optionally, the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the first transmission delay from the UPF network element.

[0469] Optionally, if the SMF network element adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay, then the following S1015 - S1016 will not be executed.

[0470] S1015. Optionally, the SMF network element sends the first transmission delay to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the first transmission delay from the SMF network element.

[0471] S1016. Optionally, the PCF network element adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

[0472] Among them, for the implementation process of S1013, refer to the introduction of S511 and will not be elaborated here.

[0473] S1017. Optionally, the UPF network element sends the first transmission delay to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first transmission delay from the UPF network element. Specifically, the UPF network element is opened through the Nupf_EventExposure service, or the first transmission delay is opened to the AF network element through the NEF network element.

[0474] S1018. Optionally, the PCF network element sends a first transmission delay to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first transmission delay from the PCF network element.

[0475] For the implementation processes of S1014 - S1018, reference can be made to the introduction of S911 - S915, which will not be elaborated here.

[0476] The communication method in the embodiment of this application includes: The first core network device receives a first data packet from an application server, and the first data packet includes second time information. The first core network device determines a second transmission delay according to the second time information, where the second transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. The first core network device sends the second transmission delay to the second core network device, and the second transmission delay is used to determine the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0477] That is to say, after the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, it can determine the second transmission delay according to the second time information carried in the first data packet. In this way, the first core network device can obtain the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. When the first core network device provides the second transmission delay to other core network devices (such as the second core network device), other core network devices can determine the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server based on the second transmission delay, and then perform QoS parameter adjustment based on this transmission delay (i.e., the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server) and the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device, such as adjusting parameters such as packet delay budget (PDB) or packet set delay budget (PSDB). That is to say, based on the communication method of this application, in the process of end - to - end QoS guarantee, both the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device and the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end - to - end service guarantee and improve the end - to - end service experience.

[0478] It should be understood that the message names between various devices or the names of each parameter in the message in the following embodiments of this application are only examples. In specific implementation, they can also be other names, and this application does not make specific limitations in this regard. A unified description is made here and will not be elaborated later.

[0479] Next, in combination with Figure 11 , the communication method proposed in the embodiment of this application will be introduced in detail. The communication method 1100 proposed in the embodiment of this application includes the following operations:

[0480] S1101. Optionally, the fourth core network device determines first indication information.

[0481] For the fourth core network device and the first indication information, refer to the description in S501 and will not be elaborated here.

[0482] It should be noted that S1101 is an optional step. For example, when the fourth core network device triggers the determination of the first transmission delay, the fourth core network device executes S1101. Another example is that when other core network devices except the fourth core network device trigger the determination of the first transmission delay, the fourth core network device does not execute S1101.

[0483] For the fourth core network device, after determining the first indication information, it executes S1102:

[0484] S1102. Optionally, the fourth core network device sends the first indication information to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the first indication information from the fourth core network device.

[0485] For the third core network device, refer to the description in S502 and will not be elaborated here.

[0486] It should be noted that S1102 is an optional step. For example, the above first indication information can be pre-configured on the third core network device side. In this case, S1102 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator himself or based on the negotiation between the operator and the third-party application.

[0487] S1103. Optionally, the third core network device determines second policy information according to the first indication information.

[0488] The description of the second policy information is as follows:

[0489] The second policy information indicates the determination of the third transmission delay.

[0490] Optionally, the second policy information also indicates the determination of the second transmission delay or indicates the second transmission delay. For example, the fourth core network device can provide the second transmission delay in the first indication information. Another example is that if the fourth core network device does not provide the second transmission delay, the second policy information is used to indicate the determination of the second transmission delay.

[0491] Exemplarily, the second policy information includes: end-to-end delay measurement policy and QoS measurement policy. Among them, the end-to-end delay measurement policy indicates the determination of the second transmission delay, and the QoS measurement policy indicates the determination of the third transmission delay.

[0492] In this application, the second transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server, which can be denoted as the E2E delay. Among them, the second transmission delay can be provided by the fourth core network device through the first indication information. In this case, steps S1105 - S1109 do not need to be executed, that is, the determination of the second transmission delay does not need to be performed, and the second transmission delay is directly provided by the fourth core network device.

[0493] Optionally, the second transmission delay can be denoted as E2E UL latency, that is, the end - to - end uplink delay, which is the uplink transmission delay from the terminal device to the application server. Or, the second transmission delay can be denoted as E2E DL latency, that is, the end - to - end downlink delay, which is the downlink transmission delay from the application server to the terminal device.

[0494] In this application, the third transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device. In this case, the third core network device triggers QoS monitoring according to the first indication information and measures the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device.

[0495] Among them, QoS monitoring can be denoted as UL QoS monitoring, that is, the QoS monitoring of the uplink. In this case, the third transmission delay obtained based on UL QoS monitoring can be understood as the uplink transmission delay from the terminal device to the first core network device.

[0496] Among them, QoS monitoring can be denoted as DL QoS monitoring, that is, the QoS monitoring of the downlink. In this case, the third transmission delay obtained based on DL QoS monitoring can be understood as the downlink transmission delay from the first core network device to the terminal device.

[0497] Optionally, the third transmission delay is obtained through the existing QoS measurement mechanism.

[0498] Optionally, the second policy information further indicates at least one of the following:

[0499] The first item is the measurement method of the second transmission delay.

[0500] For example, the measurement method indicated by the second policy information is: determining the second transmission delay based on the RTP extension header. It can be understood that the second transmission delay is determined through the second time information carried in the RTP extension header of the downlink data packet (such as the following first data packet). For specific details, please refer to the introduction of S1107 and S1108, which will not be elaborated here.

[0501] The second item is the measurement period of the second transmission delay. For example, the measurement period is 10 ms.

[0502] Item 3, the measurement trigger condition for the second transmission delay.

[0503] Item 4, the transmission period or reporting period for the second transmission delay. For example, the measurement period is 10 ms.

[0504] Item 5, the transmission trigger condition for the second transmission delay. For example, if the change amount of the second transmission delay exceeds a certain threshold, the reporting of the second transmission delay is triggered.

[0505] Exemplarily, the second policy information is included in the PCC rule.

[0506] It should be noted that S1103 is an optional step. For example, the second policy information is pre-configured on the third core network device side. In this case, S1103 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator himself or based on the negotiation between the operator and the third-party application.

[0507] For the third core network device, after determining the second policy information, the third core network device executes S1104:

[0508] S1104. Optionally, the third core network device sends the second policy information to the second core network device. Correspondingly, the second core network device receives the second policy information from the third core network device.

[0509] Among them, for the introduction of the second core network device, please refer to the introduction of S504 and will not be elaborated here.

[0510] It should be noted that S1104 is an optional step. For example, the second policy information is pre-configured on the second core network device side. In this case, S1104 is not executed. The above pre-configuration is configured by the operator himself or based on the negotiation between the operator and the third-party application.

[0511] S1105. Optionally, the second core network device determines the second configuration information according to the second policy information.

[0512] Among them, the introduction of the second configuration information is as follows:

[0513] The second configuration information indicates to determine the second transmission delay.

[0514] Optionally, the second configuration information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the second transmission delay, or the measurement period of the second transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the second transmission delay, or the transmission period of the second transmission delay, or the transmission trigger condition of the second transmission delay. For details, please refer to the introduction of S1103 and will not be elaborated here.

[0515] It should be noted that S1105 is an optional step. For example, the above-mentioned second configuration information can be pre-configured on the side of the second core network device. In this case, S1105 is not executed. The above-mentioned pre-configuration is configured by the operator himself or based on the negotiation between the operator and the third-party application.

[0516] It should be added that in this application, the second configuration information also indicates the relevant configuration of the third transmission delay, such as the measurement period, reporting period, etc. Regarding the relevant configuration of the third transmission delay, it can be sent to the RAN device and the first core network device by the second core network device. Then, the first core network device triggers the determination of the third transmission delay.

[0517] Among them, the determination process of the third transmission delay is as follows:

[0518] Step 1, the first core network device sends a downlink data packet X to the RAN device. Correspondingly, the RAN device receives the downlink data packet X from the first core network device. Among them, the downlink data packet X includes: the timestamp T of the first core network device sending the downlink data packet X X-1 。

[0519] Step 2, the RAN device determines the fourth transmission delay. Among them, the fourth transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the terminal device and the RAN device, which can also be called the transmission delay of the Uu interface. The determination process of the fourth transmission delay can refer to the related technology and will not be elaborated here.

[0520] Step 3, the RAN device sends an uplink data packet Y to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the uplink data packet Y from the RAN device.

[0521] Among them, the uplink data packet Y includes the following three items of information: the fourth transmission delay, the timestamp T of the RAN device receiving the downlink data packet X X-2 , and the timestamp T of the RAN device sending the uplink data packet Y Y-1 。

[0522] Step 4, the first core network device determines the moment T when it receives the uplink data packet Y Y-2 。

[0523] Step 5, the first core network device determines the third transmission delay.

[0524] For example, the transmission delay between the RAN device and the first core network device: T RAN-UPF =T Y-2 -T Y-1 。Among them, T RAN-UPF represents the transmission delay between the RAN device and the first core network device. T Y-2 represents the moment when the first core network device receives the uplink data packet Y.Y-1 Indicates the moment when the RAN device sends the uplink data packet Y.

[0525] Alternatively, the transmission delay between the RAN device and the first core network device: T RAN-UPF = T X-2 - T X-1 . Wherein, T RAN-UPF Indicates the transmission delay between the RAN device and the first core network device. T X-1 Indicates the moment when the first core network device sends the downlink data packet X. T X-2 Indicates the moment when the RAN device receives the downlink data packet X.

[0526] Alternatively, the transmission delay between the RAN device and the first core network device: T RAN-UPF = (T Y-2 - T Y-1 + T X-2 - T X-1 ) / 2.

[0527] The first core network device determines the third transmission delay according to the fourth transmission delay and the transmission delay between the RAN device and the first core network device.

[0528] Among them, for the determination process of the third transmission delay, reference can be made to the related art and will not be elaborated here. For the second core network device, after the second core network device determines the second configuration information, it executes S1106:

[0529] S1106. The second core network device sends the second configuration information to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the second configuration information from the second core network device.

[0530] Among them, for the second configuration information, reference can be made to the introduction in S1105 and will not be elaborated here.

[0531] Among them, for the first core network device, reference can be made to the introduction in S506 and will not be elaborated here.

[0532] For the first core network device, the first core network device determines the second transmission delay according to the second configuration information. Specifically, the communication method 1100 in the embodiments of the present application further includes the following steps:

[0533] S1107. The application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server.

[0534] Among them, the first data packet includes the second time information.

[0535] Among them, the introduction of the second time information is as follows:

[0536] Before S1107, as Figure 12 shown, the communication method of this application further includes the following steps d and e:

[0537] Step d, the terminal device sends a fourth data packet to the first core network device. Correspondingly, the first core network device receives the fourth data packet from the terminal device.

[0538] Among them, the fourth data packet includes: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet.

[0539] Step e, the first core network device sends the fourth data packet to the application server. Correspondingly, the application server receives the fourth data packet from the first core network device.

[0540] That is to say, for the application server, the application server first receives the fourth data packet from the first core network device, and then sends the first data packet, that is, first executes step e, and then executes S1107. In this case, the second time information of the first data packet includes the following two items of information: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-1 ), and the time when the application server receives the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-2 ).

[0541] It should be noted that the relationship between the first data packet and the fourth data packet is introduced as follows:

[0542] In terms of timing, the application server first receives the fourth data packet and then sends the first data packet. In this way, for the application server, the second time information (such as the above T 4-1 and T 4-2 ) can be carried in the first data packet, so that the first core network device determines the second transmission delay based on the second time information.

[0543] In addition, the first data packet can be a service data packet, such as a service data packet sent by the application server to the terminal device through the first core network device. The fourth data packet can also be a service data packet, such as a service data packet sent by the terminal device to the application server through the first core network device. Among them, the first data packet and the fourth data packet can belong to the data packets of the same service.

[0544] It should be added that, as a possible example, the fourth data packet further includes indication information Z. Among them, the indication information Z is used to indicate that the following two items of information are carried in the first data packet: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-1 ), and the time when the application server receives the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-2 ). In this case, after the application server receives the fourth data packet, in response to the indication information Z, the application server adds the above two items of time information (that is, the above T4-1 and T 4-2 ). In this way, the first data packet sent by the application server carries the above two time information (i.e., the above T 4-1 and T 4-2 ).

[0545] Optionally, the second time information is carried at the following positions:

[0546] The second time information is carried in the RTP header of the first data packet. Alternatively, the second time information is carried in the SR field of RTCP in the first data packet. Alternatively, the second time information is carried in the RTP extension header of the first data packet. For details, see the introduction in Figure 8 and will not be elaborated here.

[0547] For the first core network device, after receiving the first data packet, it executes S1108:

[0548] S1108. The first core network device determines the second transmission delay according to the second time information.

[0549] Among them, the second transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. For details, see the introduction in S1103 and will not be elaborated here.

[0550] Exemplarily, the implementation process of S1108 includes:

[0551] The second time information includes the following two items of information: the moment when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-1 ), and the moment when the application server receives the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-2 ).

[0552] In this case, S1108 includes: the first core network device determines the second transmission delay, or the uplink end-to-end transmission delay, according to the moment when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-1 ), and the moment when the application server receives the fourth data packet (denoted as T 4-2 ).

[0553] For example, the second transmission delay: T 1 = T 4-2 - T 4-1 . Among them, T 1 represents the second transmission delay. T 4-1 represents the moment when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet. T 4-2 represents the moment when the application server receives the fourth data packet.

[0554] It should be understood that in this application, the first core network device can combine the time information carried in multiple data packets to determine the second transmission delay. For example, the first core network device performs the first measurement, that is, determines a transmission delay according to the time information carried in a first data packet. Then, the first core network device performs the second measurement, that is, determines a second transmission delay according to the time information carried in the second first data packet. In this way, the cycle repeats, and the measurement is repeated N times. Then, the average value (or minimum value, or maximum value) of the transmission delays determined by the N measurements is used as the above-mentioned second transmission delay, and this application does not make a limitation on this.

[0555] For the first core network device, after the first core network device determines the second transmission delay, it executes S1109:

[0556] S1109. Optionally, the first core network device sends the second transmission delay to the second core network device. Correspondingly, the second core network device receives the second transmission delay from the first core network device.

[0557] Among them, for the second transmission delay, reference can be made to the introduction in S1108, and details will not be repeated here.

[0558] For example, in the case where the second configuration information indicates the sending period of the second transmission delay, the first core network device sends the second transmission delay to the second core network device according to the sending period indicated by the second configuration information.

[0559] For another example, in the case where the second configuration information indicates the sending trigger condition of the second transmission delay, for example, the sending trigger condition is: perform transmission delay reporting processing when the transmission delay is greater than (or equal to) the second threshold. In this case, if the second transmission delay is greater than (or equal to) the second threshold, the first core network device sends the second transmission delay to the second core network device. On the contrary, if the second transmission delay is less than the second threshold, the first core network device does not send the second transmission delay.

[0560] It should be noted that S1109 is an optional step. In S1109, the first core network device provides the second transmission delay to the second core network device. In the case where S1109 is not executed, as a possible implementation, the second core network device can also obtain the second transmission delay from the fourth core network device. Among them, the fourth core network device can be an application function network element, such as an AF network element. As another possible implementation, the second core network device can also obtain the second transmission delay from the fifth core network device. Among them, the fifth core network device can be a network data analysis function network element, such as a NWDAF network element. In other words, in this application, for the second core network device, the second core network device can obtain the second transmission delay from the first core network device, the fourth core network device, or the fifth core network device.

[0561] For the second core network device, after receiving the second transmission delay, as a possible implementation, the second core network device may execute S1110a and S1110b, as shown in the dotted box where 'Case 1' is located. Alternatively, as another possible implementation, the second core network device may execute S1110c, and the third core network device may execute S1110d, as shown in the dotted box where 'Case 2' is located. The descriptions of S1110a - S1110c are as follows:

[0562] S1110a. The second core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay.

[0563] Among them, the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0564] Exemplarily, the second core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay and the third transmission delay. Among them, the third transmission delay is the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device, which can be obtained through QoS monitoring. Refer to the related technology and will not be elaborated here.

[0565] For example, the first transmission delay: T = T 1 – T 2 . Among them, T represents the first transmission delay, T 1 represents the second transmission delay, and T 2 represents the third transmission delay.

[0566] Optionally, if the second core network device adjusts the QoS parameters based on the first transmission delay, then the following S1111 will not be executed.

[0567] Optionally, the second core network device selects and rediscovers the edge application server based on the first transmission delay.

[0568] S1110b. The second core network device sends the first transmission delay to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the first transmission delay from the second core network device.

[0569] S1110c. The second core network device sends the second transmission delay to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the second transmission delay from the second core network device.

[0570] For the third core network device, after receiving the second transmission delay, as a possible implementation, the third core network device may execute S1110d. The description of S1110d is as follows:

[0571] S1110d. The third core network device determines a first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay.

[0572] For the implementation process of S1110d, refer to the introduction of S1110a, which will not be elaborated here.

[0573] Alternatively, as another possible implementation, as shown in the dashed box where 'Case 3' is located, the present application further includes the following operations:

[0574] S1110e. The fourth core network device sends the second transmission delay to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the second transmission delay from the fourth core network device. Among them, the fourth core network device can be an application function network element or a data analysis function network element.

[0575] S1110d. The third core network device determines a first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay.

[0576] For the third core network device, the third core network device obtains the first transmission delay through S1110b or S1110d, and then executes S1111:

[0577] S1111. Optionally, the third core network device adjusts QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

[0578] For the implementation process of S1111, refer to the introduction of S511, which will not be elaborated here.

[0579] Optionally, in some embodiments, as indicated by the first indication information: in the case of feeding back the first transmission delay, the communication method of the present application further includes the following steps:

[0580] For example, for the third core network device, after the third core network device executes S1110b or S1110d, it executes S1112:

[0581] S1112. Optionally, the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device. Correspondingly, the fourth core network device receives the first transmission delay from the third core network device.

[0582] That is to say, the third core network device feeds back the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device to achieve network information opening.

[0583] Optionally, the fourth core network device triggers the rediscovery or migration of the edge application server according to the first transmission delay. For example, if the current first transmission delay is too long (i.e., the N6 delay is too long), it means that the link quality between the current application server and the UPF network element is poor. The fourth core network device can trigger the selection of a new edge application server or the migration to a new edge application server.

[0584] The following combines Figure 13 with the examples shown in Figure 11 to detail the specific implementation of the communication method shown in

[0585] Figure 13 is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application. Among them, Figure 11 the first core network device in Figure 13 can be the UPF network element shown in Figure 11 the second core network device in Figure 13 can be the SMF network element shown in Figure 11 the third core network device in Figure 13 can be the PCF network element shown in Figure 11 the fourth core network device in Figure 13 can be the AF network element shown in Figure 11 the application server in Figure 13 can be the AS shown in

[0586] Specifically, in Figure 13 the communication method of the embodiments of the present application includes the following steps:

[0587] S1301. Optionally, the AF network element sends an AF request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AF request from the AF network element.

[0588] Among them, the AF request includes service flow description information (such as SDF) and first indication information.

[0589] For the service flow description information, please refer to the introduction in S901 and will not be elaborated here.

[0590] For the first indication information, please refer to the introduction in S1101 and will not be elaborated here.

[0591] S1302. Optionally, when the terminal device initiates a PDU session establishment process, the terminal device sends a PDU session establishment request (PDU Session Establishment Request) to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the PDU session establishment request from the terminal device.

[0592] Among them, the PDU session establishment request is used to request the establishment of a PDU session.

[0593] S1303. Optionally, the AMF network element sends a PDU session establishment request to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PDU session establishment request from the AMF network element.

[0594] S1304. Optionally, the PCF network element generates a PCC rule according to the AF request.

[0595] Optionally, the PCF network element generates a PCC rule according to the AF request and / or local configuration.

[0596] Among them, the PCC rule includes second policy information. For the introduction of the second policy information, reference can be made to the description in S1103, which will not be elaborated here.

[0597] Among them, for the implementation processes of S1301 - S1304, reference can be made to the description in S901 - S904, which will not be elaborated here.

[0598] S1305. The PCF network element triggers QoS monitoring.

[0599] Exemplarily, the PCF network element triggers QoS monitoring according to the first indication information. For the QoS monitoring process, reference can be made to the related technologies, which will not be elaborated here.

[0600] S1306. Optionally, the PCF network element sends the PCC rule to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the PCC rule from the PCF network element.

[0601] For the SMF network element, after obtaining the PCC rule, the SMF network element executes S1307:

[0602] S1307. Optionally, the SMF network element determines the second configuration information according to the PCC rule.

[0603] Among them, for the introduction of the second configuration information, reference can be made to the description in S1105, which will not be elaborated here.

[0604] S1308. Optionally, the SMF network element sends the second configuration information to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the second configuration information from the SMF network element.

[0605] For the terminal device, the AMF network element, the SMF network element, and the UPF network element, S1308 is also executed:

[0606] S1308. Optionally, in the case of executing the PDU session establishment process, the terminal device, the AMF network element, the SMF network element, and the UPF network element execute the remaining steps for PDU Session Establishment process.

[0607] For the implementation processes of S1306 - S1308, refer to the descriptions of S905 - S907, which will not be elaborated here.

[0608] After the PUD session establishment / modification process is completed, the terminal device sends a fourth data packet to the application server AS. Correspondingly, the application server AS receives the fourth data packet from the terminal device. The fourth data packet includes: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet.

[0609] For the application server AS, after receiving the fourth data packet, it executes S1310:

[0610] S1310. The application server AS sends a first data packet to the UPF network element. Correspondingly, the UPF network element receives the first data packet from the application server AS.

[0611] The first data packet includes second time information, which includes the following two items: the time when the terminal device sends the fourth data packet, and the time when the application server AS receives the fourth data packet. For the second time information, refer to the description of S1107, which will not be elaborated here.

[0612] S1311. The UPF network element determines a second transmission delay according to the second time information.

[0613] For the implementation process of S1311, refer to the description of S1108, which will not be elaborated here.

[0614] S1312. Optionally, the UPF network element sends the second transmission delay to the SMF network element. Correspondingly, the SMF network element receives the second transmission delay from the UPF network element.

[0615] For example, the UPF network element sends the second transmission delay to the SMF network element according to the second configuration information, or the UPF network element sends the second transmission delay to the SMF network element according to the second configuration information and local configuration. For details, refer to the description of S1109, which will not be elaborated here.

[0616] Another example is that the UPF network element sends the second transmission delay to the SMF network element through an N4 session message.

[0617] S1313. Optionally, the SMF network element sends the second transmission delay to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the second transmission delay from the SMF network element.

[0618] Among them, for the implementation process of S1313, reference can be made to the introduction of S510, which will not be elaborated here.

[0619] S1314. Optionally, the PCF network element determines the first transmission delay according to the second transmission delay.

[0620] Among them, for the implementation process of S1314, reference can be made to the introduction of S1110d, which will not be elaborated here.

[0621] S1315. Optionally, the PCF network element adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

[0622] Among them, for the implementation process of S1315, reference can be made to the introduction of S511, which will not be elaborated here.

[0623] S1316. Optionally, the PCF network element sends the first transmission delay to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first transmission delay from the PCF network element.

[0624] The communication method in the embodiments of this application includes: The fifth core network device receives a subscription request from the third core network device. The subscription request is used to request an estimated value of the first transmission delay, and the estimated value of the first transmission delay indicates the estimated transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, and the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay indicates the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server during the historical period. The fifth core network device determines the estimated value of the first transmission delay based on the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay. The fifth core network device sends the estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device.

[0625] That is to say, the fifth core network device can, in response to the subscription request, perform data analysis based on the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, so as to obtain the estimated transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server, that is, the estimated value of the first transmission delay.

[0626] In the case where the fifth core network device provides the estimated value of the first transmission delay to other core network devices, such as the third core network device, the third core network device adjusts the quality of service QoS parameters based on the estimated value of the first transmission delay, such as adjusting parameters such as PDB or PSDB, so as to achieve end-to-end QoS control. That is to say, based on the communication method of this application, during the process of end-to-end QoS guarantee, the estimated value of the transmission delay from the first core network device to the application server can be referred to, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee and improve the end-to-end service experience.

[0627] It should be understood that the message names between various devices or the names of various parameters in the message in the following embodiments of the present application are only examples, and in specific implementations, they can also be other names. The embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations in this regard. A unified description is made here and will not be repeated later.

[0628] Next, in combination with Figure 14 , the communication method proposed in the embodiments of the present application will be introduced in detail. The communication method 1400 proposed in the embodiments of the present application includes the following operations:

[0629] S1401. Optionally, the third core network device sends a subscription request to the fifth core network device. Correspondingly, the fifth core network device receives the subscription request from the third core network device.

[0630] Among them, the third core network device may be a policy control network element. Taking the 5G communication system as an example, the third core network device is a PCF network element. Alternatively, the third core network device may also be a session management network element. Taking the 5G communication system as an example, the third core network device is an SMF network element. Next, taking the third core network device as a PCF network element as an example for introduction, it should not be construed as a limitation to the present application.

[0631] Among them, the fifth core network device may be a network data analysis function network element. Taking the 5G communication system as an example, the fifth core network device is an NWDAF network element.

[0632] Among them, the subscription request is used to request an estimated value of the first transmission delay.

[0633] In the present application, the first transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. The estimated value of the first transmission delay refers to the estimated transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server. It can be understood as: the estimated transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server at the current moment or in the future period.

[0634] Optionally, the subscription request further includes at least one of the following:

[0635] The first item is the identifier of the first terminal device. Among them, the first terminal device is a terminal device that transmits data between the first core network device and the application server. In this case, the subscription request is used to request the first transmission delay for the first terminal device. It can be understood that in the process of delay analysis, the analysis target of the fifth core network device is: the first terminal device.

[0636] Second item, identifier of the first terminal device group. Each terminal device in the first terminal device group transmits data between the first core network device and the application server. In this case, the subscription request is used to request the first transmission delay for the first terminal device group. It can be understood that during the delay analysis process, the analysis target of the fifth core network device is: the first terminal device group.

[0637] Third item, identifier of the first service. The first transmission delay is the transmission delay of the first service between the first core network device and the application server. In this case, the subscription request is used to request the first transmission delay for the first service. It can be understood that during the delay analysis process, the analysis granularity of the fifth core network device is: the first transmission delay of the first service on the first core network device.

[0638] That is to say, the fifth core network device introduces an N6 latency prediction event. When S1401 is executed, other network elements (such as the above-mentioned third core network device) can subscribe to this N6 latency event from the fifth core network device through a subscription request, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee. Or, when S1401 is not executed, a third party can subscribe to this N6 latency event from the fifth core network device through a subscription request, so as to perform end-to-end service guarantee.

[0639] For the fifth core network device, in response to the subscription request, the fifth core network device performs the following operations:

[0640] S1402. The fifth core network device obtains historical measurement values of the first transmission delay according to the subscription request.

[0641] The first transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server.

[0642] The historical measurement values of the first transmission delay refer to: the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server during a historical period. The historical period refers to any period earlier than the current moment.

[0643] Among them, the first core network device may be a UPF network element. For details, see Figure 5 the introduction and will not be elaborated here.

[0644] As a first possible implementation manner, the implementation process of S1402 includes:

[0645] The fifth core network device obtains historical measurement values of the first transmission delay from the fourth core network device. Among them, the fourth core network device may be an AF network element. For details, see Figure 5 the introduction and will not be elaborated here.

[0646] Alternatively, the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay from the first core network device. The first core network device may be a UPF network element. For details, refer to Figure 5 for the introduction and no further elaboration will be provided.

[0647] As a second possible implementation manner, the implementation process of S1402 includes:

[0648] First, the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay and the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay.

[0649] The second transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the terminal device and the application server. The historical measurement value of the second transmission delay refers to the transmission delay measured between the terminal device and the application server during the historical period. For example, the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay from the fourth core network device (such as an AF network element).

[0650] The third transmission delay refers to the transmission delay between the terminal device and the first core network device. The historical measurement value of the third transmission delay refers to the transmission delay measured between the terminal device and the first core network device during the historical period. For example, the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay from the third core network device (such as a PCF network element).

[0651] Then, the fifth core network device determines the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay according to the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay and the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay.

[0652] For example, the first transmission delay: T = T 1 – T 2 . Where T represents the historical measurement value of the first transmission delay, T 1 represents the historical measurement value of the second transmission delay, and T 2 represents the historical measurement value of the third transmission delay.

[0653] As a third possible implementation manner, the implementation process of S1402 includes:

[0654] For example, the fifth core network device sends first indication information to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the first indication information from the fifth core network device. The first indication information is used to indicate the determination of a first transmission delay. Then, the third core network device generates first policy information according to the first indication information. The third core network device sends the first policy information to the second core network device. The second core network device generates first configuration information according to the first policy information. The second core network device sends the first configuration information to the first core network device. For the first core network device, the first core network device obtains historical measurement values of the first transmission delay. For details, refer to the introduction in S501 - S508. After the first core network device obtains the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay, the first core network device sends the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay to the fifth core network device.

[0655] Alternatively, the fifth core network device generates first configuration information. The fifth core network device sends the first configuration information to the first core network device. For the first core network device, the first core network device obtains historical measurement values of the first transmission delay. For details, refer to the introduction in S506 - S508. After the first core network device obtains the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay, the first core network device sends the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay to the fifth core network device.

[0656] For the fifth core network device, after the fifth core network device obtains the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay, execute S1403:

[0657] S1403. The fifth core network device determines an estimated value of the first transmission delay based on the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay.

[0658] The historical measurement values of the first transmission delay can be referred to the introduction in S1402 and will not be elaborated here.

[0659] The estimated value of the first transmission delay can be referred to the introduction in S1401 and will not be elaborated here.

[0660] Exemplarily, the fifth core network device analyzes and processes the historical measurement values of the first transmission delay to obtain the estimated value of the first transmission delay. For the fifth core network device, after the fifth core network device obtains the estimated value of the first transmission delay, execute S1404:

[0661] S1404. The fifth core network device sends the estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device. Correspondingly, the third core network device receives the estimated value of the first transmission delay from the fifth core network device.

[0662] Exemplarily, the fifth core network device sends the estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device according to the subscription request.

[0663] For example, when the subscription request further includes the identifier of the first terminal device, the fifth core network device sends an estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device, and the estimated value is the estimated value of the first transmission delay for the first terminal device.

[0664] For another example, when the subscription request further includes the identifier of the first terminal device group, the fifth core network device sends an estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device, and the estimated value is the estimated value of the first transmission delay for the first terminal device group.

[0665] For yet another example, when the subscription request further includes the identifier of the first service, the fifth core network device sends an estimated value of the first transmission delay to the third core network device, and the estimated value is the estimated value of the first transmission delay for the first service.

[0666] For the third core network device, after obtaining the first transmission delay, the third core network device executes S1405:

[0667] S1405. The third core network device adjusts the QoS parameters according to the estimated value of the first transmission delay.

[0668] Among them, for the implementation process of S1405, reference can be made to the introduction of S511, which will not be elaborated here.

[0669] It can be understood that in each of the above embodiments, the methods and / or steps implemented by the core network device (such as any one of the above-mentioned first core network device to fifth core network device) can also be implemented by components (such as a processor, a chip, a chip system, a circuit, a logic module, or software) available for the core network device. Among them, the chip system can be composed of chips, or the chip system can include chips and other discrete devices.

[0670] It can be understood that in order to implement the above functions, the communication device includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should easily realize that, in combination with the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in the form of hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a certain function is executed in the way of hardware or computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional technicians can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to exceed the scope of this application.

[0671] Embodiments of the present application can divide functional modules of a communication device according to the above method embodiments. For example, each functional module can be divided corresponding to each function, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing module. The above integrated module can be implemented in the form of hardware or in the form of a software functional module. It should be noted that the division of modules in the embodiments of the present application is illustrative, only a logical function division, and there can be other division methods in actual implementation.

[0672] Figure 15 FIG. shows a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 1500. The communication device 1500 includes a processing module 1501 and a transceiver module 1502. The communication device 1500 can be used to implement the functions of the above core network device (such as any one of the first core network device to the fifth core network device).

[0673] In some embodiments, the communication device 1500 may further include a storage module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure) for storing program instructions and data.

[0674] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 1502, which can also be referred to as a transceiver unit, is used to implement the sending and / or receiving functions. The transceiver module 1502 can be composed of a transceiver circuit, a transceiver, a transceiver, or a communication interface.

[0675] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 1502 may include a receiving module and a sending module, which are respectively used to execute the receiving and sending steps performed by the core network device in the above method embodiments, and / or other processes for supporting the technologies described herein; the processing module 1501 can be used to execute the processing steps (such as determination, etc.) performed by the core network device in the above method embodiments, and / or other processes for supporting the technologies described herein.

[0676] Among them, all relevant contents of each step involved in the above method embodiments can be cited in the function descriptions of the corresponding functional modules, and will not be elaborated here.

[0677] Optionally, in the present application, when the transceiver module receives / sends information, it can also be understood that the processing module receives / sends information through the transceiver module. The processing module receiving / sending information through the transceiver module can also be understood as: the processing module controls the transceiver module to receive / send information. Or, the processing module sending information through the transceiver module can be understood as: the processing module outputs information to the transceiver module, and the transceiver module sends the information; the processing module receiving information through the transceiver module can be understood as: the transceiver module receives the information and inputs the information to the processing module.

[0678] In this application, the communication device 1500 may be presented in the form of integrating and dividing each functional module. Here, the "module" may refer to a specific application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a circuit, a processor and a memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, an integrated logic circuit, and / or other devices that can provide the above functions.

[0679] In some embodiments, when Figure 15 the communication device 1500 in is a chip or a chip system, the function / implementation process of the transceiver module 1502 may be implemented through the input / output interface (or communication interface) of the chip or chip system, and the function / implementation process of the processing module 1501 may be implemented through the processor (or processing circuit) of the chip or chip system.

[0680] Since the communication device 1500 provided in this embodiment can execute the above method, the technical effects that can be obtained can refer to the above method embodiments and will not be elaborated here.

[0681] As a possible product form, the core network device described in the embodiments of this application (such as any one of the above-mentioned first to fifth core network devices) can also be implemented by using the following: one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), controllers, state machines, gate logic, discrete hardware components, any other suitable circuits, or any combination of circuits capable of executing various functions described throughout this application.

[0682] As another possible product form, the core network device described in the embodiments of this application (such as any one of the above-mentioned first to fifth core network devices) can be implemented by a general bus architecture. For the sake of illustration, refer to Figure 16 , Figure 16 FIG. is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 1600 provided in the embodiments of this application. The communication device 1600 includes a processor 1601 and a transceiver 1602. The communication device 1600 may be a core network device (such as any one of the above-mentioned first to fifth core network devices), or a chip or module therein. Figure 16 Only the main components of the communication device 1600 are shown. In addition to the processor 1601 and the transceiver 1602, the communication device 1600 may further include a memory 1603 and an input / output device (not shown in the figure).

[0683] Optionally, the processor 1601 is mainly used to process communication protocols and communication data, control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process the data of software programs. The memory 1603 is mainly used to store software programs and data. The transceiver 1602 may include a radio frequency circuit and an antenna. The radio frequency circuit is mainly used for the conversion between baseband signals and radio frequency signals and the processing of radio frequency signals. The antenna is mainly used to transmit and receive radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. The input / output device, such as a touch screen, a display screen, a keyboard, etc., is mainly used to receive data input by the user and output data to the user.

[0684] Optionally, the processor 1601, the transceiver 1602, and the memory 1603 may be connected through a communication bus.

[0685] It should be noted that the memory 1603 may exist independently of the processor 1601 or may be integrated with the processor 1601. The memory 1603 may be located inside the communication device 1600 or outside the communication device 1600, without limitation.

[0686] After the communication device is powered on, the processor 1601 may read the software program in the memory 1603, interpret and execute the instructions of the software program, and process the data of the software program. When data needs to be wirelessly transmitted, the processor 1601 performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and then outputs a baseband signal to the radio frequency circuit. The radio frequency circuit performs radio frequency processing on the baseband signal and then transmits the radio frequency signal outward in the form of electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the communication device, the radio frequency circuit receives the radio frequency signal through the antenna, converts the radio frequency signal into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor 1601. The processor 1601 converts the baseband signal into data and processes the data.

[0687] In another implementation, the radio frequency circuit and the antenna may be provided independently of the processor performing baseband processing. For example, in a distributed scenario, the radio frequency circuit and the antenna may be independent of the communication device and arranged in a remote manner.

[0688] In some embodiments, in terms of hardware implementation, those skilled in the art can envision that the above communication device 1500 may adopt Figure 16 the form of the communication device 1600 shown.

[0689] As an example, Figure 15 the function / implementation process of the processing module 1501 in Figure 16 can be implemented by the processor 1601 in the communication device 1600 shown calling the computer-executable instructions stored in the memory 1603. Figure 15 the function / implementation process of the transceiver module 1502 in Figure 16It is implemented by the transceiver 1602 in the communication device 1600 shown.

[0690] As another possible product form, the core network device in this application (such as any one of the first to fifth core network devices mentioned above) may adopt Figure 17 the composition structure shown, or include Figure 17 the components shown. Figure 17 It is a schematic diagram of the composition of a communication device 1700 provided by this application.

[0691] Such as Figure 17 shown, the communication device 1700 includes at least one processor 1701. Optionally, the communication device further includes a communication interface 1702.

[0692] When the program instructions involved are executed in the at least one processor 1701, the device 1700 can be enabled to implement the method provided by any of the foregoing embodiments and any possible design therein. Alternatively, the processor 1701 is used to implement the method provided by any of the foregoing embodiments and any possible design therein through logic circuits or by executing code instructions.

[0693] The communication interface 1702 can be used to receive program instructions and transmit them to the processor. Alternatively, the communication interface 1702 can be used for the communication device 1700 to communicate and interact with other communication devices, such as interacting control signaling and / or service data, etc. Exemplarily, the communication interface 1702 can be used to receive signals from other devices outside the communication device 1700 and transmit them to the processor 1701 or send signals from the processor 1701 to other communication devices outside the communication device 1700.

[0694] Optionally, the communication interface 1702 can be a code and / or data read / write interface circuit, or the communication interface 1702 can be a signal transmission interface circuit between a communication processor and a transceiver, or a pin of a chip.

[0695] Optionally, the communication device 1700 may further include at least one memory 1703, and the memory 1703 can be used to store the required program instructions and / or data involved.

[0696] It should be noted that the memory 1703 can exist independently of the processor 1701 or be integrated with the processor 1701. The memory 1703 can be located inside the communication device 1700 or outside the communication device 1700, without limitation.

[0697] Optionally, the communication device 1700 may further include a power supply circuit 1704, which can be used to supply power to the processor 1701. The power supply circuit 1704 may be located within the same chip as the processor 1701, or within another chip outside the chip where the processor 1701 is located.

[0698] Optionally, the communication device 1700 may further include a bus 1705, through which various parts in the communication device 1700 can be interconnected.

[0699] In some embodiments, in terms of hardware implementation, those skilled in the art can conceive that the Figure 15 illustrated communication device 1500 can adopt the Figure 17 form of the illustrated communication device 1700.

[0700] As an example, Figure 15 the function / implementation process of the processing module 1501 in Figure 17 can be implemented by the processor 1701 in the illustrated communication device 1700 calling computer-executable instructions stored in the memory 1703. Figure 15 The function / implementation process of the transceiver module 1502 in Figure 17 can be implemented by the communication interface 1702 in the illustrated communication device 1700.

[0701] It should be noted that Figure 17 the illustrated structure does not constitute a specific limitation on the core network device (such as any one of the above-mentioned first to fifth core network devices). For example, in some other embodiments of the present application, the core network device may include more or fewer components than shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or split certain components, or have different component arrangements. The illustrated components can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0702] Optionally, the processor in the present application may be a central processing unit (CPU), and the processor may also be other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or the processor may also be any conventional processor, etc.

[0703] Optionally, the memory in the present application may be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memories. Among them, the non-volatile memory may be a read-only memory (ROM), a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or a flash memory. The volatile memory may be a random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example but not limitation, many forms of random access memory (RAM) are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchlink dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), or direct rambus random access memory (DRRAM).

[0704] Optionally, the power supply circuit described in the embodiments of the present application includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a power supply line, a power supply subsystem, a power management chip, a power consumption management processor, or a power consumption management control circuit.

[0705] In some embodiments, the embodiments of the present application further provide a communication device, which includes a processor for implementing the method in any of the above method embodiments.

[0706] As a possible implementation manner, the communication device further includes a memory. The memory is used to store necessary computer programs and data. The computer program may include instructions, and the processor may call the instructions in the computer program stored in the memory to instruct the communication device to execute the method in any of the above method embodiments. Of course, the memory may not be in the communication device.

[0707] As another possible implementation, the communication device further includes an interface circuit, which is a code / data read / write interface circuit. The interface circuit is configured to receive computer execution instructions (the computer execution instructions are stored in a memory, and may be directly read from the memory or may pass through other devices) and transmit them to the processor.

[0708] As yet another possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface, which is configured to communicate with modules outside the communication device.

[0709] It can be understood that the communication device may be a chip or a chip system. When the communication device is a chip system, it may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices. The embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0710] The present application also provides a computer-readable storage medium, on which a computer program or instructions are stored. When the computer program or instructions are executed by a computer, the functions of any of the above method embodiments are implemented.

[0711] The present application also provides a computer program product, which implements the functions of any of the above method embodiments when executed by a computer.

[0712] Those of ordinary skill in the art can understand that for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be elaborated herein.

[0713] It can be understood that the systems, devices, and methods described in the present application can also be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of the units is only a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the couplings or direct couplings or communication connections shown or discussed with each other may be through some interfaces, and the indirect couplings or communication connections of the devices or units may be in electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0714] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, that is, they may be located in one place or may be distributed to multiple network units. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units. Some or all of the units can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the solution of this embodiment.

[0715] In addition, the functional units in various embodiments of the present 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.

[0716] In the above embodiments, it can be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using a software program, it can be implemented in whole or in part in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of the present application are generated in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable devices. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center by wire (such as coaxial cable, optical fiber, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wirelessly (such as infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.). The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that the computer can access or a data storage device such as a server, data center, etc. that contains one or more media integrated therein. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (such as a floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (such as a DVD), or a semiconductor medium (such as a solid state drive (SSD)), etc. In the embodiments of the present application, the computer can include the devices described above.

[0717] Although the present application has been described in conjunction with various embodiments herein, however, in the process of implementing the claimed present application, those skilled in the art can understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments by viewing the accompanying drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "one" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions recited in the claims. Certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims, but this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, it includes: A first core network device receives a first data packet from an application server, and the first data packet includes first time information; The first core network device determines a first transmission delay according to the first time information, and the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server; The first core network device sends the first transmission delay to a second core network device or a fourth core network device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first transmission delay is used for service quality QoS parameter adjustment, and the QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: The packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device; or, The packet set delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first time information includes: the moment when the application server sends the first data packet; The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following two moments: The moment when the application server sends the first data packet, and The moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: The first core network device sends a second data packet to the application server, and the second data packet includes the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet; The first time information includes: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the second data packet; The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following two moments: The moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and The moment when the application server receives the second data packet.

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: The first core network device sends a second data packet to the application server, and the second data packet includes the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet; The first time information includes: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, the moment when the application server receives the second data packet, and the moment when the application server sends the first data packet; The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following four moments: The moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and The moment when the application server receives the second data packet, and The moment when the application server sends the first data packet, and The moment when the first core network device receives the first data packet.

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that before the first core network device receives the first data packet from the application server, the method further includes: The first core network device receives a third data packet from the terminal device, and the third data packet includes the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet; The first core network device sends the third data packet to the application server; The first time information includes: the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet; The first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the first time information, including: When the first data packet and the third data packet include the same moment, and the same moment is the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, the first core network device determines the first transmission delay according to the following two moments: The moment when the first core network device sends the third data packet, and The moment when the application server receives the third data packet.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that The first time information is carried in the Real-Time Transport Protocol (RTP) header or RTP extension header of the first data packet; or, The first time information is carried in the sender report (SR) field of the Real-Time Transport Control Protocol (RTCP) of the first data packet.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that The first time information is carried in the first protocol layer of the first data packet; wherein, the first protocol layer is the protocol layer of the tunnel between the first core network device and the application server.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, characterized in that The method further includes: The first core network device receives first configuration information from the second core network device, and the first configuration information indicates to determine the first transmission delay.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that The first configuration information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the sending period of the first transmission delay, or the sending trigger condition of the first transmission delay.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that The first configuration information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel, and the first tunnel is the tunnel between the first core network device and the application server; The method further includes: the first core network device establishes the first tunnel according to the first configuration information, and the first tunnel is used for measuring the first transmission delay.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1-11, Characterized in that, the second core network device includes a session management function network element; and / or, the fourth core network device includes an application function network element.

13. A communication method, Characterized in that, including: The third core network device receives a first transmission delay from the second core network device, where the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between the first core network device and the application server; The third core network device adjusts quality of service (QoS) parameters according to the first transmission delay, and / or, the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device; Wherein, the QoS parameters include at least one of the following: The packet delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device; or, The packet set delay budget between the terminal device and the first core network device.

14. The method according to claim 13, Characterized in that, The method further includes: The third core network device receives first indication information from the fourth core network device, where the first indication information indicates to determine the first transmission delay; The third core network device determines first policy information according to the first indication information, where the first policy information indicates to determine the first transmission delay; The third core network device sends the first policy information to the second core network device.

15. The method according to claim 14, Characterized in that, The first policy information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the sending period of the first transmission delay, or the sending trigger condition of the first transmission delay; Wherein, the first transmission delay is determined by the first core network device.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, Characterized in that, The first policy information further indicates: the endpoints of the first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel; Wherein, the first tunnel is a tunnel between the first core network device and the application server, and the first tunnel is used for measuring the first transmission delay.

17. The method according to any one of claims 14-16, Characterized in that, The first indication information further indicates: the first transmission delay is used for QoS parameter adjustment; The third core network device adjusts QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay, including: In response to the first indication information, the third core network device adjusts the QoS parameters according to the first transmission delay.

18. The method according to any one of claims 14-16, Characterized in that, The first indication information further indicates: feedback the first transmission delay; The third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device, including: In response to the first indication information, the third core network device sends the first transmission delay to the fourth core network device.

19. A communication method, Characterized in that, including: The fourth core network device determines first indication information, where the first indication information indicates determining a first transmission delay, and the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between a first core network device and an application server; The fourth core network device sends the first indication information to a third core network device.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, the first transmission delay is used for Quality of Service (QoS) parameter adjustment, and the QoS parameters to be adjusted include at least one of the following: the packet delay budget between a terminal device and the first core network device; or, the packet set delay budget between a terminal device and the first core network device.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, the first indication information further indicates that the first transmission delay is used for the QoS parameter adjustment.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19-21, wherein, the first indication information further indicates: feedback the first transmission delay; The method further includes: the fourth core network device receives the first transmission delay from the first core network device or the third core network device.

23. The method according to any one of claims 19-22, wherein, the first indication information further indicates at least one of the following: the measurement method of the first transmission delay, or the measurement period of the first transmission delay, or the measurement trigger condition of the first transmission delay, or the transmission period of the first transmission delay, or the transmission trigger condition of the first transmission delay.

24. The method according to any one of claims 19-23, wherein, the first indication information further indicates: the endpoints of a first tunnel and / or the establishment trigger condition of the first tunnel; wherein, the first tunnel is a tunnel between the first core network device and the application server, and the first tunnel is used for the measurement of the first transmission delay.

25. A communication method, wherein, includes: An application server determines a first data packet, where the first data packet includes first time information, and the first time information is used to determine a first transmission delay, and the first transmission delay is the transmission delay between a first core network device and the application server; The application server sends the first data packet to the first core network device.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein, the first time information includes: the moment when the application server sends the first data packet.

27. The method according to claim 25, wherein, before the application server determines the first data packet, the method further includes: The application server receives a second data packet from the first core network device, and the second data packet includes the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet; wherein, the first time information includes: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the second data packet; Alternatively, the first time information includes: the moment when the first core network device sends the second data packet, the moment when the application server receives the second data packet, and the moment when the application server sends the first data packet.

28. The method according to claim 25, wherein, before the application server determines the first data packet, the method further includes: the application server receives, via the first core network device, a third data packet from a terminal device, where the third data packet includes the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet; the first time information includes: the moment when the terminal device sends the third data packet, and the moment when the application server receives the third data packet.

29. A communication device, wherein, the communication device includes a processor; the processor is configured to run a computer program or instruction, so that the communication device executes the method according to any one of claims 1-12, or so that the communication device executes the method according to any one of claims 13-18, or so that the communication device executes the method according to any one of claims 19-24, or so that the communication device executes the method according to any one of claims 25-28.

30. A computer-readable storage medium, wherein, the computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions or programs, and when the computer instructions or programs are run on a computer, the method according to any one of claims 1-12 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 13-18 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 19-24 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 25-28 is executed.

31. A computer program product, wherein, the computer program product includes computer instructions; when some or all of the computer instructions are run on a computer, the method according to any one of claims 1-12 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 13-18 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 19-24 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 25-28 is executed.

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