Communication method and device and computer readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a communication method and device and a computer readable storage medium, and relates to the technical field of communication. The communication method comprises: a core network caches downlink data of a protocol session unit (PDU) session in response to a first notification received from a base station, the first notification indicating that the base station will switch a feeder link; and after the base station completes feeder link switching, the core network sends the cached downlink data to the base station. According to the invention, the continuity of the session and service of the downlink data is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of communication technologies, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Art

[0002] Mobile base stations are wireless communication base station equipment that can be moved or relocated, enabling them to provide telecommunications services while on the move. These base stations are not fixed to a single location but can be deployed and operated in different geographic locations as needed to meet network coverage requirements for temporary, emergency communications, or special scenarios.

[0003] For situations where base stations move rapidly, such as when base stations are deployed to satellites, the feeder link between the base station and the ground station may need to be switched over. In this case, an inter NG-RAN handover process or a resource modification process is usually used. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication method, comprising:

[0005] The core network caches downlink data of a protocol session unit (PDU) session in response to receiving a first notification from the base station, wherein the first notification indicates that the base station will switch a feeder link;

[0006] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the buffered downlink data to the base station.

[0007] In some embodiments, the core network includes an access and mobility management function AMF network element, a session management function SMF network element, and a user plane function UPF network element, and the cached downlink data of the PDU session includes:

[0008] The AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element, which is used by the SMF network element to instruct the UPF network element to cache the downlink data, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link.

[0009] In some embodiments, the AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element, including:

[0010] The AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element based on the first PDU session information associated with the base station.

[0011] In some embodiments, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the cached downlink data to the base station, including:

[0012] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station, wherein the second notification includes a new address for downlink data reception;

[0013] The AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element, instructing the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station, wherein the second session update message includes the new address.

[0014] In some embodiments, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station, including:

[0015] After the base station completes the feeder link switch, the AMF network element establishes a new transport network layer association with the base station;

[0016] The AMF network element receives the second notification from the base station through the new transport network layer association.

[0017] In some embodiments, the AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element, including:

[0018] The AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element based on the second PDU session information associated with the base station.

[0019] In some embodiments, the new address for downlink data reception is a new N3 interface address for downlink data reception.

[0020] In some embodiments, the communication method further includes:

[0021] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the currently received downlink data to the base station.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication method, comprising:

[0023] The SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to cache the downlink data in response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link;

[0024] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station.

[0025] In some embodiments, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station, including:

[0026] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element receives a second session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the second session update message includes a new address for downlink data reception;

[0027] The SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station.

[0028] In some embodiments, the new address for downlink data reception is a new N3 interface address for downlink data reception.

[0029] In some embodiments, the communication method further includes:

[0030] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the currently received downlink data to the base station.

[0031] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication method, including:

[0032] In the case where the feeder link is to be switched, the base station sends a first notification to the core network, for instructing the core network to buffer downlink data of the PDU session;

[0033] After the feeder link switching is completed, the base station receives the buffered downlink data from the core network.

[0034] In some embodiments, the base station receives the cached downlink data from the core network, including:

[0035] After the feeder link handover is completed, the base station establishes a new transport network layer association with the AMF network element;

[0036] The base station sends a second notification to the AMF network element through a new transport network layer association, wherein the second notification includes a new address for downlink data reception;

[0037] The base station receives the buffered downlink data from the new address.

[0038] In some embodiments, the new address for downlink data reception is a new N3 address for downlink data reception.

[0039] In some embodiments, the base station sends the second notification to the core network, including:

[0040] The base station sends the second notification to the core network in the handover process.

[0041] In some embodiments, the base station sends the second notification to the core network, including:

[0042] The base station sends the second notification to the core network in a PDU session resource modification indication Session Resource ModifyIndication message of the resource modification process.

[0043] In some embodiments, the base station sends the second notification to the core network, including:

[0044] The base station sends the second notification to the core network in a path switch request Path Switch Request message of the handover modification process.

[0045] In some embodiments, the base station is a mobile base station, which is located on the ground, a high-altitude platform or an aircraft.

[0046] In some embodiments, the communication method further includes:

[0047] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the base station receives, from the core network, the downlink data currently received by the core network.

[0048] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a core network is provided, configured to:

[0049] caching downlink data of a protocol session unit (PDU) session in response to receiving a first notification from the base station, wherein the first notification indicates that the base station will switch a feeder link;

[0050] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the buffered downlink data is sent to the base station.

[0051] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an SMF network element, configured to:

[0052] In response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, instructing the UPF network element to cache the downlink data, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link;

[0053] After the base station completes the feeder link switching, it instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station.

[0054] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a base station is provided, including:

[0055] a sending module configured to send a first notification to the core network when the feeder link is about to be switched, for instructing the core network to buffer downlink data of the PDU session;

[0056] The receiving module is configured to receive the cached downlink data from the core network after the feeder link switching is completed.

[0057] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication system, including:

[0058] The core network according to any embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0059] The base station according to any embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a communication device, including:

[0061] Memory; and

[0062] A processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor is configured to execute the communication method according to any embodiment of the present disclosure based on instructions stored in the memory.

[0063] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which computer program instructions are stored. When the instructions are executed by a processor, the communication method according to any embodiment of the present disclosure is implemented.

[0064] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided, comprising computer program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the communication method according to any embodiment of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0065] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure.

[0066] The present disclosure can be more clearly understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] in:

[0068] Figure 1 A flow chart illustrating a communication method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0069] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a communication method according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0070] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a communication method according to some further embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0071] Figure 4 An interaction diagram illustrating a communication method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0072] Figure 5 A block diagram illustrating a core network according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0073] Figure 6A block diagram illustrating an SMF network element according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0074] Figure 7 A block diagram illustrating a base station according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0075] Figure 8 A block diagram illustrating a communication system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0076] Figure 9 A block diagram illustrating a communication device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0077] Figure 10 A block diagram of a computer system for implementing some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement of components and steps, numerical expressions and numerical values set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0079] At the same time, it should be understood that for the convenience of description, the sizes of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn according to the actual proportional relationship.

[0080] The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure, its application, or uses.

[0081] Technologies, methods, and equipment known to ordinary technicians in the relevant art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, the technologies, methods, and equipment should be considered part of the specification.

[0082] In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not limiting. Therefore, other examples of the exemplary embodiments may have different values.

[0083] It should be noted that like reference numerals and letters refer to like items in the following figures, and therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0084] When a base station moves rapidly relative to the ground, for example, when a base station is deployed to a satellite, the base station sometimes switches the feeder link with the ground station due to the movement. If the inter NG-RAN handover process or resource modification process is directly used, the downlink data packets may not be received because the bearer of the satellite base station has not been established or has been removed during the handover. Especially in the case of hard switchover, the base station cannot be connected to two ground stations at the same time. The feeder link switch between the base station and the ground station will cause the user equipment (UE) session and service continuity to be damaged.

[0085] Figure 1 A flow chart of a communication method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown, the communication method includes steps S11 and S12. In some embodiments, the communication method is executed by a core network.

[0087] In step S11, the core network (5GC) caches downlink data for a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session in response to receiving a first notification from the base station, where the first notification indicates that the base station will switch feeder links. For example, before a feeder link switch is about to occur, the base station first notifies the core network of the impending feeder link switch. Upon receiving the notification, the core network no longer forwards downlink data and caches the received downlink data.

[0088] In some embodiments, the core network includes an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element, a session management function (SMF) network element and a user plane function (UPF) network element, which caches the downlink data of the PDU session, including: the AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element, for the SMF network element to instruct the UPF network element to cache the downlink data, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link.

[0089] For example, the AMF of the core network receives a first notification from the base station, which contains information informing the core network that the base station will switch the feeder link. The AMF sends a message to the corresponding SMF of the core network to update the session, so that the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to cache the downlink data.

[0090] In some embodiments, the AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element, including: the AMF network element sends the first session update message to the SMF network element based on the first PDU session information associated with the base station. For example, the AMF sends a message to the SMF of the corresponding core network for session update based on the PDU session information associated with the base station.

[0091] In step S12, after the base station completes the feeder link handover, the core network sends the cached downlink data to the base station. For example, after the base station completes the feeder link handover, the core network sends the previously cached downlink data to the base station. Since the base station has already completed the handover, no data loss will occur.

[0092] In some embodiments, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the cached downlink data to the base station, including: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station, wherein the second notification includes a new address for receiving downlink data; the AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element, used to instruct the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station, wherein the second session update message includes the new address.

[0093] For example, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF receives a message from the base station, which contains the new address of the PDU session for downlink data reception. The AMF sends a message to the corresponding SMF to update the session, which is used to instruct the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station. The session update sent by the AMF to the corresponding SMF contains the new address of the PDU session for downlink data reception after the base station completes the feeder link switching.

[0094] In some embodiments, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station, including: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element establishes a new transport network layer association with the base station, and the AMF network element receives the second notification from the base station through the new transport network layer association. For example, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the base station establishes a connection with the AMF through a new transport network layer association (TNLA). After the new TNLA connection is established, the AMF receives messages from the base station and sends messages to the base station through the new TNLA connection.

[0095] In some embodiments, the AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element, including: the AMF network element sends the second session update message to the SMF network element according to the second PDU session information associated with the base station. For example, the AMF sends a message to the corresponding SMF for session update based on the PDU session information involved in the UE associated with the base station.

[0096] In some embodiments, the new address for receiving downlink data is a new N3 interface address for receiving downlink data. The UPF sends downlink data corresponding to the PDU session to the new address for receiving downlink data.

[0097] In some embodiments, the communication method further includes: after the base station completes the feeder link handover, the core network sends the currently received downlink data to the base station. For example, in addition to the previously cached downlink data, the UPF may also receive downlink data from other locations, such as from the N6 interface (outside the mobile network). The UPF also forwards this newly received downlink data to the base station, for example, the UPF forwards the downlink data to the new N3 address of the base station.

[0098] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the communication method includes: the core network caches downlink data of the protocol session unit PDU session in response to receiving a first notification from the base station, wherein the first notification indicates that the base station will switch the feeder link; after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the cached downlink data to the base station.

[0099] With this solution, the core network buffers downlink data before a feeder link handover occurs and does not send it to the base station, preventing the base station from receiving downlink data during the handover. After the handover is complete, the core network sends the downlink data to the base station, ensuring the continuity of the UE's downlink data session and services.

[0100] Figure 2 A flow chart of a communication method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0101] like Figure 2 As shown, the communication method includes steps S21 and S22. In some embodiments, the communication method is executed by SMF.

[0102] In step S21, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to cache downlink data in response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link.

[0103] For example, after receiving the session update from AMF, SMF knows that the base station corresponding to the PDU session is about to switch the feeder link. SMF controls the UPF of the core network to no longer forward the downlink data of the PDU session to the base station, and the downlink data forwarded by the UPF cache.

[0104] In step S22, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station.

[0105] In some embodiments, after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station, including: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element receives a second session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the second session update message includes a new address for downlink data reception; the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station.

[0106] For example, after receiving the session update from AMF, SMF controls UPF to forward the previously cached downlink data and the newly received downlink data to the new address for downlink data reception of the base station's PDU session.

[0107] In some embodiments, the new address for receiving downlink data is a new N3 interface address for receiving downlink data. The UPF sends downlink data corresponding to the PDU session to the new address for receiving downlink data.

[0108] In some embodiments, the communication method further includes: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the currently received downlink data to the base station.

[0109] Among them, the downlink data currently received is other downlink data in addition to the previously cached data. After the UPF sends the previously cached data to the base station, the downlink data received by the UPF from other places, such as the downlink data received from the N6 interface (outside the mobile network), is also forwarded to the base station.

[0110] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the communication method includes: the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to cache downlink data in response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link; after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station.

[0111] With this solution, the core network's SMF controls the UPF to buffer downlink data and not send it to the base station before the feeder link switch is about to occur, preventing the base station from not receiving downlink data during the switch. After the switch is complete, the core network's SMF controls the UPF to send downlink data to the base station, thereby ensuring the continuity of the UE's downlink data session and service.

[0112] Figure 3 A flow chart of a communication method according to some further embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0113] like Figure 3 As shown, the communication method includes steps S31 and S32. In some embodiments, the communication method is executed by a base station.

[0114] In step S31, when the feeder link is about to be switched, the base station sends a first notification to the core network, instructing the core network to buffer the downlink data of the PDU session. For example, when a feeder link switchover is about to occur, the base station notifies the connected core network that it will no longer receive downlink data of the PDU session.

[0115] In some embodiments, the base station sends a first notification to the core network, including: the base station sends a first notification to the AMF of the core network.

[0116] For example, when the base station is about to switch the feeder link, the base station notifies the AMF of the core network, notifying the core network of the information that the base station will switch the feeder link.

[0117] In step S32, after the feeder link switch is completed, the base station receives the cached downlink data from the core network. For example, after the base station completes the ground station switch and adopts the new PDU session downlink data receiving address, the base station sends the new address for downlink data reception corresponding to the PDU session to the core network and receives the downlink data of the PDU session.

[0118] In some embodiments, the base station receives cached downlink data from the core network, including: after completing the feeder link switching, the base station establishes a new transmission network layer association with the AMF network element; the base station sends a second notification to the AMF network element through the new transmission network layer association, wherein the second notification includes a new address for downlink data reception; the base station receives the cached downlink data from the new address.

[0119] For example, after the base station completes the feeder link switch, it establishes a connection with the AMF via the new TNLA. After the new TNLA connection is established, the base station sends messages to and receives messages from the AMF via the new TNLA connection. When the base station completes the ground station switch, it sends the new address for downlink data reception corresponding to the PDU session to the AMF.

[0120] In some embodiments, the new address for receiving downlink data is a new N3 address for receiving downlink data. The base station receives downlink data of a corresponding PDU session sent by the core network from the new N3 address for receiving downlink data.

[0121] In some embodiments, the base station sends the second notification to the core network, including: the base station sends the second notification to the core network in a handover process (Handover).

[0122] In some embodiments, the base station sends the second notification to the core network, including: the base station sends the second notification to the core network in a PDU Session Resource Modify Indication message of the resource modification process.

[0123] In some embodiments, the base station sends the second notification to the core network, including: the base station sends the second notification to the core network in a path switch request (Path Switch Request) message of the handover modification process.

[0124] In some embodiments, the base station is a mobile base station located on the ground, a high-altitude platform, or an aircraft, wherein the aircraft is, for example, an airplane or a medium or low-orbit satellite.

[0125] In some embodiments, the communication method further includes: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the base station receives, from the core network, downlink data currently received by the core network.

[0126] Among them, the downlink data currently received by the core network is other downlink data in addition to the previously cached data. After receiving the data previously cached by the core network, the base station also receives downlink data received by the core network from other places, such as downlink data received from the N6 interface (outside the mobile network).

[0127] Figure 4 An interaction diagram illustrating a communication method according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0128] like Figure 4 As shown, in event 100, uplink and downlink data transmission is performed between the satellite base station and the UPF via the ground station 1 and the satellite base station.

[0129] In event 101, before the feeder link switching is about to occur, the base station notifies the 5GC that the feeder link switching is about to occur.

[0130] In event 102, the AMF notifies the SMF that the satellite base station is about to undergo feeder link switching.

[0131] In event 103, the SMF controls the UPF not to forward the downlink data and caches the received downlink data.

[0132] At event 104, the satellite base station completes the feeder link switch, connects to ground station 2, and then establishes a new TNLA connection with the AMF.

[0133] In event 105, the base station communicates with the AMF via the new TNLA connection. The satellite base station initiates a handover or resource modification to the 5GC via ground station 2, carrying the new N3 address information for downlink data reception.

[0134] In event 106, AMF notifies SMF to modify the PDU session, and the notification carries the new N3 address information sent by the satellite base station for downlink data reception.

[0135] In event 107, the SMF controls the UPF to send the previously buffered and currently received downlink data to the new N3 address for downlink data reception.

[0136] In event 108, the SMF returns a session modification response to the AMF.

[0137] In event 109, the AMF returns a handover or resource modification confirmation to the satellite base station through ground station 2.

[0138] Figure 5 A block diagram of a core network according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0139] The core network 50 is configured to: in response to receiving a first notification from the base station, cache the downlink data of the protocol session unit PDU session, wherein the first notification indicates that the base station will switch the feeder link, for example, perform the following Figure 1 Step S11 shown; after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the cached downlink data is sent to the base station, for example, Figure 1 Step S12 is shown.

[0140] In some embodiments, the core network includes an access and mobility management function AMF network element, a session management function SMF network element and a user plane function UPF network element, and the AMF network element is further configured to send a first session update message to the SMF network element, for the SMF network element to instruct the UPF network element to cache downlink data, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link.

[0141] In some embodiments, the AMF network element is further configured to: send a first session update message to the SMF network element based on the first PDU session information associated with the base station.

[0142] In some embodiments, the AMF network element is further configured to: receive a second notification from the base station after the base station completes the feeder link switching, wherein the second notification includes a new address for receiving downlink data; send a second session update message to the SMF network element to instruct the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station, wherein the second session update message includes the new address.

[0143] In some embodiments, the AMF network element is further configured to: establish a new transmission network layer association with the base station after the base station completes the feeder link switching; and the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station through the new transmission network layer association.

[0144] In some embodiments, the AMF network element is further configured to: send a second session update message to the SMF network element based on the second PDU session information associated with the base station.

[0145] In some embodiments, the new address for downlink data reception is a new N3 interface address for downlink data reception.

[0146] In some embodiments, the core network is further configured to: send the currently received downlink data to the base station after the base station completes the feeder link switching.

[0147] Figure 6 A block diagram of an SMF network element according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0148] The SMF network element 601 is configured to: in response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, instruct the UPF network element to cache downlink data, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link, for example, executing Figure 2 Step S21 shown; after the base station completes the feeder link switching, it instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station, for example, Figure 2 Step S22 is shown.

[0149] In some embodiments, the SMF network element 601 is further configured as follows: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element receives a second session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the second session update message includes a new address for receiving downlink data; the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station.

[0150] In some embodiments, the SMF network element 601 is further configured to: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the currently received downlink data to the base station.

[0151] Figure 7 A block diagram of a base station according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0152] like Figure 7 As shown, the base station 70 includes a sending module 701 and a receiving module 702 .

[0153] The sending module 701 is configured to send a first notification to the core network when the feeder link is switched, for instructing the core network to cache the downlink data of the PDU session, for example, to execute the following Figure 3 Step S31 is shown.

[0154] The receiving module 702 is configured to receive the cached downlink data from the core network after the feeder link switching is completed, for example, by performing the following steps: Figure 3 Step S32 is shown.

[0155] In some embodiments, the base station is further configured to: after completing the feeder link switching, the base station establishes a new transmission network layer association with the AMF network element; the base station sends a second notification to the AMF network element through the new transmission network layer association, wherein the second notification includes a new address for receiving downlink data; the base station receives the cached downlink data from the new address.

[0156] In some embodiments, the new address for downlink data reception is a new N3 address for downlink data reception.

[0157] In some embodiments, the base station is further configured to: send the second notification to the core network in a handover process (Handover).

[0158] In some embodiments, the base station is further configured to: send the second notification to the core network in a PDU Session Resource Modify Indication message of the resource modification procedure.

[0159] In some embodiments, the base station is further configured to: send the second notification to the core network in a path switch request (PathSwitch Request) message of the handover modification procedure.

[0160] In some embodiments, the base station is a mobile base station, and the base station is located on the ground, a high-altitude platform, or an aircraft.

[0161] In some embodiments, the base station is further configured to: after the base station completes the feeder link switching, the base station receives, from the core network, downlink data currently received by the core network.

[0162] Figure 8 A block diagram of a communication system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0163] like Figure 8As shown, the communication system 8 includes: a core network 50 according to any embodiment of the present disclosure; and a base station 70 according to any embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0164] Figure 9 A block diagram of a communication device according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0165] like Figure 9 As shown, the communication device 9 includes a memory 91 and a processor 92 coupled to the memory 91. The memory 91 is used to store and execute the communication method. The processor 92 is configured to execute the communication method in any of the embodiments of the present disclosure based on the instructions stored in the memory 91.

[0166] The present disclosure provides a computer program product, comprising computer program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the communication method according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0167] Figure 10 A block diagram of a computer system for implementing some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0168] like Figure 10 As shown, computer system 100 may be implemented as a general-purpose computing device. Computer system 100 includes memory 1010, processor 1020, and bus 1000 that connects various system components.

[0169] The memory 1010 may include, for example, a system memory, a non-volatile storage medium, and the like. The system memory may store, for example, an operating system, application programs, a boot loader, and other programs. The system memory may include volatile storage media, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. The non-volatile storage medium may store, for example, instructions for executing the communication method in any of the embodiments of the present disclosure. Non-volatile storage media include, but are not limited to, disk storage, optical storage, flash memory, and the like.

[0170] The processor 1020 can be implemented as a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, or as discrete hardware components such as discrete gates or transistors. Accordingly, each module, such as the judgment module and the determination module, can be implemented by a central processing unit (CPU) executing instructions in a memory that execute corresponding steps, or by dedicated circuits that execute corresponding steps.

[0171] The bus 1000 may use any of a variety of bus architectures, including, but not limited to, an Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, a Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, and a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus.

[0172] The computer system 100 may also include an input / output interface 1030, a network interface 1040, a storage interface 1050, and the like. These interfaces 1030, 1040, and 1050, as well as the memory 1010 and the processor 1020, may be connected via a bus 1000. The input / output interface 1030 provides a connection interface for input / output devices such as a display, a mouse, and a keyboard. The network interface 1040 provides a connection interface for various networked devices. The storage interface 1050 provides a connection interface for external storage devices such as floppy disks, USB flash drives, and SD cards.

[0173] Here, various aspects of the present disclosure are described with reference to flowcharts and / or block diagrams of methods, devices, and computer program products according to embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be understood that each block of the flowcharts and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks, can be implemented by computer-readable program instructions.

[0174] These computer-readable program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable device to produce a machine, so that the processor executes the instructions to produce means for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams.

[0175] These computer-readable program instructions can also be readable and stored in a computer-readable memory. These instructions cause the computer to work in a specific manner, thereby producing an article of manufacture, including instructions for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams.

[0176] The present disclosure can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects.

[0177] The communication method and apparatus, and the computer-readable storage medium in the above embodiments ensure the continuity of downlink data sessions and services.

[0178] The communication method and apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium according to the present disclosure have been described in detail. To avoid obscuring the concepts of the present disclosure, some details known in the art have been omitted. Based on the above description, those skilled in the art will fully understand how to implement the technical solutions disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A communication method, comprising: The core network caches downlink data of a protocol session unit (PDU) session in response to receiving a first notification from the base station, wherein the first notification indicates that the base station will switch a feeder link; After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the buffered downlink data to the base station.

2. The satellite communication method according to claim 1, wherein: The core network includes an access and mobility management function AMF network element, a session management function SMF network element, and a user plane function UPF network element, and the downlink data of the cached PDU session includes: The AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element, which is used by the SMF network element to instruct the UPF network element to cache the downlink data, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link.

3. The satellite communication method according to claim 2, wherein: The AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element, including: The AMF network element sends a first session update message to the SMF network element based on the first PDU session information associated with the base station.

4. The satellite communication method according to claim 2, wherein: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the cached downlink data to the base station, including: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station, wherein the second notification includes a new address for downlink data reception; The AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element, instructing the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station, wherein the second session update message includes the new address.

5. The satellite communication method according to claim 4, wherein: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the AMF network element receives a second notification from the base station, including: After the base station completes the feeder link switch, the AMF network element establishes a new transport network layer association with the base station; The AMF network element receives the second notification from the base station through the new transport network layer association.

6. The satellite communication method according to claim 4, wherein: The AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element, including: The AMF network element sends a second session update message to the SMF network element based on the second PDU session information associated with the base station.

7. The satellite communication method according to claim 2, wherein: The new address for receiving downlink data is a new N3 interface address for receiving downlink data.

8. The communication method according to claim 1, further comprising: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the core network sends the currently received downlink data to the base station.

9. A communication method, comprising: The SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to cache the downlink data in response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link; After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station.

10. The communication method according to claim 9, wherein: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station, including: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element receives a second session update message from the AMF network element, wherein the second session update message includes a new address for downlink data reception; The SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the new address of the base station. The communication method according to claim 10 , wherein: The new address for receiving downlink data is a new N3 interface address for receiving downlink data.

12. The communication method according to claim 9, further comprising: After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the SMF network element instructs the UPF network element to send the currently received downlink data to the base station.

13. A communication method, comprising: In the case where the feeder link is to be switched, the base station sends a first notification to the core network, for instructing the core network to buffer downlink data of the PDU session; After the feeder link switching is completed, the base station receives the buffered downlink data from the core network.

14. The communication method according to claim 13, wherein: The base station receiving the cached downlink data from the core network includes: After the feeder link handover is completed, the base station establishes a new transport network layer association with the AMF network element; The base station sends a second notification to the AMF network element through a new transport network layer association, wherein the second notification includes a new address for downlink data reception; The base station receives the buffered downlink data from the new address.

15. The communication method according to claim 14, wherein: The new address for receiving downlink data is a new N3 address for receiving downlink data.

16. The communication method according to claim 14, wherein: The base station sends a second notification to the core network, including: The base station sends the second notification to the core network in the handover process.

17. The communication method according to claim 14, wherein: The base station sends a second notification to the core network, including: The base station sends the second notification to the core network in a PDU session resource modification indication Session Resource Modify Indication message of the resource modification process.

18. The communication method according to claim 14, wherein: The base station sends a second notification to the core network, including: The base station sends the second notification to the core network in a path switch request Path Switch Request message of the handover modification process.

19. The communication method according to claim 13, wherein: The base station is a mobile base station, and the base station is located on the ground, a high-altitude platform or an aircraft.

20. The communication method according to claim 13, further comprising: After the feeder link switching is completed, the base station receives, from the core network, the downlink data currently received by the core network.

21. A core network, configured to: In response to receiving a first notification from a base station, cache downlink data of a protocol session unit (PDU) session, wherein: The first notification indicates that the base station will switch the feeder link; After the base station completes the feeder link switching, the buffered downlink data is sent to the base station.

22. An SMF network element, configured to: In response to receiving a first session update message from the AMF network element, instructing the UPF network element to cache the downlink data, wherein, The first session update message includes a message indicating that the base station will switch the feeder link; After the base station completes the feeder link switching, it instructs the UPF network element to send the cached downlink data to the base station.

23. A base station, comprising: a sending module configured to send a first notification to the core network when the feeder link is about to be switched, for instructing the core network to buffer downlink data of the PDU session; The receiving module is configured to receive the cached downlink data from the core network after the feeder link switching is completed.

24. A communication system comprising: The core network according to claim 21; as well as The base station according to claim 23.

25. A communication device comprising: Memory; as well as A processor coupled to the memory, wherein the processor is configured to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 20 based on instructions stored in the memory.

26. A computer-readable storage medium having computer program instructions stored thereon, wherein when the instructions are executed by a processor, the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 20 is implemented.

27. A computer program product comprising computer program instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

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