Protocol stack configuration method and device and processor readable storage medium

Abstract

The invention relates to a protocol stack configuration method and device and a processor readable storage medium, and a protocol arrangement generator receives a protocol stack arrangement configuration request sent by an SMF according to a protocol stack indication parameter carried in a UE service request, and configures a protocol stack for a programmable user plane required by the UE service request. According to the method, the programmable user plane can transmit the UE service data by adopting the protocol stack adaptive to the UE service, so that diversified service processing of the UE can be met, and the overall performance of a network is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a protocol stack configuration method, apparatus, and processor-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In mobile communication technology, establishing a user plane path can be used to transmit service data for user equipment (UE).

[0003] In related technologies, when the network function is limited to a single connectivity function, the user plane protocol stack is fixed when establishing a user plane path. However, with the continuous evolution of network architecture, the network functions of new network architectures are becoming more diverse and richer. For example, sensing functions, intelligent functions, and computing functions have emerged on top of connectivity functions. This has led to the user plane protocol stack in related technologies being unable to meet the service processing needs of the UE, affecting the overall network performance. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a protocol stack configuration method, apparatus, and processor-readable storage medium to address the aforementioned technical problems. This method enables the configuration of a protocol stack adapted to the UE's service requests for the programmable user plane when establishing a user plane path, so that the protocol stack used for service processing can meet the diverse service processing needs of the UE, thereby improving the overall network performance.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration method applied to a protocol orchestration generator, the method comprising:

[0006] Receive the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0007] Configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request, based on the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0008] In one embodiment, configuring the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes:

[0009] Based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane;

[0010] Configure the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane.

[0011] In one embodiment, the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes one or more of the following:

[0012] Protocol stack parameters required for UE service requests;

[0013] One or more programmable user plane attributes required for a UE service request;

[0014] Topological relationships between multiple programmable user planes;

[0015] Protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of UE services.

[0016] In one embodiment, protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane are created based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, including:

[0017] Arrange the protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request;

[0018] Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0019] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack creation configuration file, which creates protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, including:

[0020] Based on the protocol stacks required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, and the topology relationships between each programmable user plane, a protocol stack configuration file is created for each programmable user plane. Each programmable user plane corresponds to one or more protocol stack configuration files.

[0021] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file. Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, protocol stack configuration files are created for each programmable user plane, including:

[0022] Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane, create a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0023] In one embodiment, creating the protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane includes at least one of the following:

[0024] Create a new protocol stack configuration file for the newly added programmable user plane;

[0025] Update the protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0026] In one embodiment, the protocol stack release configuration file includes an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality.

[0027] In one embodiment, protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane are created based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, including:

[0028] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the pre-generated protocol stack, create the protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0029] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane includes a protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks that meets the UE service requirements, or a default protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks.

[0030] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0031] If the pre-generated protocol stack does not meet the UE's service requirements, a UE service request failure message is sent to the SMF.

[0032] In one embodiment, configuring the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane includes:

[0033] Distribute the corresponding protocol stack configuration files to each programmable user plane; and / or,

[0034] Send a protocol orchestration response message to the SMF. The protocol orchestration response message carries the attributes of each programmable user plane and the protocol stack configuration file. The protocol orchestration response message is used to instruct the SMF to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

[0035] In one embodiment, the method further includes sending protocol stack information and attributes of each programmable user plane configuration to the SMF.

[0036] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration method applied to SMF, the method comprising:

[0037] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, a protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0038] In one embodiment, before sending a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator, the method further includes:

[0039] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters, obtain the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing;

[0040] Select the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0041] In one embodiment, the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing are obtained according to the protocol stack indication parameters, including:

[0042] When the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the service type parameters are queried according to the preset mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters, and the queried protocol stack parameters are determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0043] If the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or if the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters shall be determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0044] In one embodiment, the mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters is stored in the SMF or in a separate network function module.

[0045] In one embodiment, a protocol orchestration generator is selected based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, including:

[0046] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information, select the protocol orchestration generator; or,

[0047] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, a query command is sent to the network repository function element, and a protocol orchestration generator is received from the network repository function element. The query command is used to instruct the network repository function element to select a protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol orchestration generator information and protocol stack parameters managed by itself.

[0048] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0049] Receive the protocol orchestration response message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol orchestration response message carries multiple programmable user plane attributes and protocol stack configuration files.

[0050] Based on the attributes of each programmable user plane, send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane.

[0051] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0052] Receive a UE service request failure message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This message is sent when the protocol orchestration generator does not have a protocol stack in its pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements; or...

[0053] Based on the programmable user plane, the user plane path for transmitting UE service data is processed.

[0054] In one embodiment, based on the programmable user plane, the user plane path for transmitting UE service data is processed, including:

[0055] Send a service processing request to the programmable user plane. The service processing request is used to request the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service to be processed by the programmable user plane.

[0056] Based on the service response sent by the programmable user plane after completing user plane resource processing, a service processing response message is sent to the UE. The service processing response message is used to indicate that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0057] In one embodiment, sending a service processing request to the programmable user plane includes:

[0058] Receive the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator;

[0059] Based on the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane, a service processing request is sent to the programmable user plane.

[0060] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration method applied to a programmable user plane, the method comprising:

[0061] Receive protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator at the instruction of the SMF when it receives a UE service request, based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0062] Configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

[0063] In one embodiment, the receive protocol stack configuration file includes:

[0064] Receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by SMF; or,

[0065] Receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

[0066] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0067] Receive service processing requests sent by SMF;

[0068] Process the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service according to the service processing request;

[0069] After completing user plane resource processing, a service processing response is sent to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a service response message to the UE. The service response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0070] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration method applied to a UE, the method comprising:

[0071] Send a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0072] In one embodiment, sending a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF includes:

[0073] Send a service request to the radio access network. The service request is used to request the radio access network to send the service request to the SMF.

[0074] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0075] Receive the service processing response message sent by SMF. The service processing response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0076] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration method applied to a wireless access network, the method comprising:

[0077] Receive service requests sent by the UE; protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service requests;

[0078] Send a service request to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0079] In one embodiment, sending a service request to the SMF includes:

[0080] Select the target SMF that matches the UE's services based on the parameters indicated by the protocol stack;

[0081] Send a service request to the target SMF.

[0082] Sixthly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0083] The configuration request receiving module is used to receive the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0084] The first protocol stack configuration module is used to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0085] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0086] The configuration request sending module is used to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0087] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0088] The configuration file receiving module is used to receive the protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator by the SMF when it receives the UE service request, based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request.

[0089] The second protocol stack configuration module is used to configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

[0090] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0091] The service request sending module is used to send a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0092] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0093] The service request receiving module is used to receive service requests sent by the UE, including protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request.

[0094] The service request sending module is used to send service requests to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0095] In one aspect, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; the memory is used to store computer programs; the transceiver is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor is used to read the computer program in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0096] The control transceiver receives the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0097] Configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request, based on the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0098] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0099] Based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane;

[0100] Configure the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane.

[0101] In one embodiment, the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes one or more of the following:

[0102] Protocol stack parameters required for UE service requests;

[0103] One or more programmable user plane attributes required for a UE service request;

[0104] Topological relationships between multiple programmable user planes;

[0105] Protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of UE services.

[0106] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0107] Arrange the protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request;

[0108] Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0109] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0110] Based on the protocol stacks required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, and the topology relationships between each programmable user plane, a protocol stack configuration file is created for each programmable user plane. Each programmable user plane corresponds to one or more protocol stack configuration files.

[0111] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0112] Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane, create a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0113] In one embodiment, creating the protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane includes at least one of the following:

[0114] Create a new protocol stack configuration file for the newly added programmable user plane;

[0115] Update the protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0116] In one embodiment, the protocol stack release configuration file includes an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality.

[0117] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0118] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the pre-generated protocol stack, create the protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0119] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane includes a protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks that meets the UE service requirements, or a default protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks.

[0120] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0121] If the pre-generated protocol stack does not meet the UE's service requirements, the control transceiver sends a UE service request failure message to the SMF.

[0122] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0123] The transceiver is controlled to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration files to each programmable user plane; and / or,

[0124] The control transceiver sends a protocol orchestration response message to the SMF. The protocol orchestration response message carries the attributes of each programmable user plane and the protocol stack configuration file. The protocol orchestration response message is used to instruct the SMF to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

[0125] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0126] Control the transceiver to send the protocol stack information and attributes configured for each programmable user plane to the SMF.

[0127] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a protocol stack configuration device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; the memory is used to store computer programs; the transceiver is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor is used to read the computer program in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0128] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, the control transceiver sends a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0129] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0130] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters, obtain the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing;

[0131] Select the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0132] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0133] When the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the service type parameters are queried according to the preset mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters, and the queried protocol stack parameters are determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0134] If the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or if the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters shall be determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0135] In one embodiment, the mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters is stored in the SMF or in a separate network function module.

[0136] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0137] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information, select the protocol orchestration generator; or,

[0138] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the transceiver is controlled to send a query command to the network repository function element and receive the protocol orchestration generator sent by the network repository function element. The query command is used to instruct the network repository function element to select a protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol orchestration generator information and protocol stack parameters managed by itself.

[0139] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0140] The transceiver receives protocol orchestration response messages sent by the protocol orchestration generator. These messages carry multiple programmable user plane attributes and protocol stack configuration files.

[0141] Based on the attributes of each programmable user plane, send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane.

[0142] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0143] The transceiver receives a UE service request failure message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This message is sent when the protocol orchestration generator does not have a protocol stack in its pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements; or...

[0144] Based on the programmable user plane, the user plane path for transmitting UE service data is processed.

[0145] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0146] The control transceiver sends a service processing request to the programmable user plane. The service processing request is used to request the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service to be processed by the programmable user plane.

[0147] Based on the service response sent by the programmable user plane after completing user plane resource processing, the control transceiver sends a service processing response message to the UE. The service processing response message is used to indicate that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0148] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0149] Control the transceiver to receive protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator;

[0150] Based on the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane, the control transceiver sends service processing requests to the programmable user plane.

[0151] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a protocol stack configuration device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; the memory is used to store computer programs; the transceiver is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor is used to read the computer program in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0152] Control the transceiver to receive the protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator under the instruction of the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request when the SMF receives the UE service request;

[0153] Configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

[0154] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0155] The protocol stack configuration file that controls the transceiver to receive SMF transmissions; or,

[0156] Controls the transceiver to receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

[0157] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0158] Control the transceiver to receive service processing requests sent by the SMF;

[0159] Process the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service according to the service processing request;

[0160] After completing user plane resource processing, a service processing response is sent to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a service response message to the UE. The service response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0161] In a fourteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a protocol stack configuration device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; the memory is used to store computer programs; the transceiver is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor is used to read the computer program in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0162] The control transceiver sends a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0163] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0164] Send a service request to the radio access network. The service request is used to request the radio access network to send the service request to the SMF.

[0165] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0166] The control transceiver receives the service processing response message sent by the SMF. The service processing response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0167] In a fifteenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a protocol stack configuration device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor; the memory is used to store computer programs; the transceiver is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor is used to read the computer program in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0168] Control the transceiver to receive service requests sent by the UE; protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request;

[0169] The control transceiver sends a service request to the SMF, and instructs the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0170] In one embodiment, the processor is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0171] Select the target SMF that matches the UE's services based on the parameters indicated by the protocol stack;

[0172] Control the transceiver to send service requests to the target SMF.

[0173] In a sixteenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a processor-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a processor to execute the steps of the protocol stack configuration method provided in any of the embodiments of the first to fifth aspects described above.

[0174] The protocol stack configuration method, apparatus, and processor-readable storage medium provided in this application embodiment allow the protocol orchestration generator to receive a protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF based on protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, and configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request. Essentially, when faced with a UE service request, the SMF can instruct the protocol orchestration generator to dynamically configure the protocol stack corresponding to the service request for the programmable user plane required by the service request based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request. This ensures that the protocol stack used by the programmable user plane is adapted to the UE service request, enabling the programmable user plane to transmit UE service data using a protocol stack adapted to the UE service, thereby meeting the diverse service processing needs of the UE and improving the overall network performance. Attached Figure Description

[0175] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the protocol stack configuration method provided in one embodiment.

[0176] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a protocol stack configuration method provided in one embodiment;

[0177] Figure 3 An interactive diagram illustrating the protocol stack configuration method for establishing services provided in one embodiment;

[0178] Figure 4 An interactive diagram illustrating the protocol stack configuration method for services provided in another embodiment;

[0179] Figure 5 This is an interactive diagram illustrating the protocol stack configuration method for service updates provided in one embodiment.

[0180] Figure 6 This is an interactive diagram illustrating the protocol stack configuration method for service updates provided in another embodiment;

[0181] Figure 7 This is an interactive diagram illustrating the protocol stack configuration method for service release provided in one embodiment;

[0182] Figure 8 An interactive diagram illustrating the protocol stack configuration method for service release provided in another embodiment;

[0183] Figure 9 This is a structural block diagram of a protocol stack configuration device provided in one embodiment;

[0184] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the protocol stack configuration device in one embodiment;

[0185] Figure 11A schematic diagram of the device structure for protocol stack configuration in another embodiment;

[0186] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of a chip in one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0187] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0188] In the embodiments of this application, the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship. The term "multiple" refers to two or more, and other quantifiers are similar.

[0189] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0190] The technical background of this application will be explained below.

[0191] In 5G technology, when a User Equipment (UE) initiates a session establishment, it sends a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session establishment request message, which carries various parameters for the Session Management Function (SMF) to select a User Plane Function (UPF) and establish a user plane path based on the selected UPF to transmit service data to the UE. This process is simply called routing.

[0192] Specifically, a PDU session in 5G is similar to a PDN connection in 4G, used to enable data interaction with an external Data Network Name (DNN). In the PDU session establishment request message sent to the network, the UE provides information elements such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI), DNN, session type, and Session and Service Continuity Mode (SSC Mode).

[0193] S-NSSAI includes both the home network's S-NSSAI and the serving network's S-NSSAI. The home network's S-NSSAI cannot be changed during the PDU session's lifetime, while the serving network's S-NSSAI can be changed. Furthermore, if the UE cannot determine the S-NSSAI during PDU session establishment, it can omit the S-NSSAI information in the PDU session establishment request message.

[0194] The DNN is used to distinguish external data networks. For a user's specific S-NSSAI, the subscription data in User Data Management (UDM) may contain a list of subscribed DNNs and a default DNN. When a UE establishes a PDU session, if the request message does not carry a DNN, the authentication processing network element will establish a PDU session for the user based on the subscribed default DNN. If there is no subscribed default DNN, the authentication processing network element will select a DNN for the UE based on its local configuration. A UE can establish one or more PDU sessions with a single DNN, and the UPF and SMF used may also be different.

[0195] After receiving a session establishment request message from the UE sent by the authentication processing function network element, the SMF will select the UPF device based on the DNN, S-NSSAI, etc. carried in the session establishment request message.

[0196] When SMF performs UPF selection under the above 5G technology, since the 5G network only has connectivity functions, the user plane protocol stack to be used for the determined transmission service is fixed, which is only the General Packet Radio Service User Data Transmission Protocol (GPRS Tunneling Protocol-User, GTP-U).

[0197] However, with the evolution of network architectures such as 6G and 7G, the functions of the network are no longer limited to the single connectivity function of 5G networks, and their application scenarios are becoming more diverse. For example, sensing functions, intelligent functions, and computing functions have emerged on top of connectivity functions. As a result, the UPF protocol stack functions required for UE services will no longer be limited to the GTP-U protocol, or in other words, the capabilities of the GTP-U protocol stack will not be sufficient to handle the services of UEs in the new network architecture.

[0198] To address this technical deficiency, this application considers incorporating a programmable user plane. The programmable user plane overcomes the limitations of traditional user planes and enables the development of next-generation Software Defined Networking (SDN) capabilities, truly opening up the network and devices to users from top to bottom. Next-generation SDN enables programmable data / user plane capabilities, allowing software to truly define the network and network devices. Where there is demand, there is motivation; P4 was developed to provide users with this capability, liberating the data / user plane of hardware devices. This allows for programmable control of processes such as packet parsing and forwarding in the network, making all devices in the network truly programmable and completely open to users.

[0199] P4 (Programming Protocol-Independent Packet Processors) is a domain-specific programming language used to describe how programmable forwarding devices handle packets. These programmable forwarding devices can be switching chips, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), network interface cards (NICs), software switches, and so on. Originally designed for programmable switches (especially the ASICs they used), P4 has now been extended to many other devices. Typically, a network device contains a control plane and a data / user forwarding plane. P4 is designed for the data / user plane of network devices; that is, P4 itself is used to program the data / user plane of network devices.

[0200] The functionality of the data / user plane on a P4 programmable switch is not fixed but defined by the P4 program. The data / user plane itself is unaware of any network protocols; it implements its functions according to the P4 program. P4 is protocol-independent, and its functionality is enabled by programming to handle various protocols and other data / user forwarding plane functions.

[0201] Based on this, addressing the technical problem in related technologies where the user plane protocol stack cannot meet the UE's service processing needs, thus affecting the overall network performance, embodiments of this application provide a protocol stack configuration method, apparatus, and processor-readable storage medium. This allows for dynamic orchestration and configuration of the programmable user plane protocol stack, ensuring that the protocol stack configured for the programmable user plane required by the UE's service requests is adapted to the UE's service requests. This satisfies the UE's diverse service processing needs, fully utilizes the rich programmable user plane to improve overall network performance, and maximizes network capabilities. Of course, the technical solutions provided in these embodiments are not limited to solving the above problems and also offer other technical effects, which can be seen in the following embodiments.

[0202] Before describing the embodiments of this application, the application scenarios of the embodiments of this application will be explained first.

[0203] The protocol stack configuration method provided in this application can be applied to, but is not limited to, 6G and future network architectures, such as... Figure 1 As shown, taking a 6G network architecture application scenario as an example, this scenario includes a UE, radio access network (RAN), SMF (Session Management Function), programmable user plane (MPF), and protocol orchestration generator. The session management function and MPF are located in the core network, while the protocol orchestration generator can be located in either the core network or the RAN, depending on actual needs. The UE, RAN, session management function, MPF, and protocol orchestration generator can communicate with each other in pairs. However, it is important to note that for the UE to communicate with the session management function, it must first enter the network through the RAN.

[0204] This application provides embodiments of a protocol stack configuration method executed by a session management function, a protocol orchestration generator, a programmable user plane, a UE, and a radio access network as the execution entities.

[0205] The following describes an embodiment that uses a protocol orchestration generator as the execution entity.

[0206] like Figure 2 As shown, in one embodiment, a protocol stack configuration method is provided, which may include the following steps:

[0207] S101, Receive the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request.

[0208] UE service requests can be requests for any type of service or in any scenario. For example, a UE service request can be a UE service establishment request, a UE service release request, or a UE service update request. This UE service request can be forwarded by the radio access network to the SMF after the UE accesses the network.

[0209] Regardless of the type of UE service request, it always includes a protocol stack indication parameter. This parameter indicates which protocol stacks the UE service request requires. The UE service request can either incorporate the protocol stack indication parameter as a new parameter based on existing S-NSSAI, DNN, SSC Mode, etc., or it can be presented as a new slice parameter, meaning that the protocol stack indication parameter is defined as a new slice parameter based on the existing S-NSSAI slice parameter.

[0210] In this embodiment, the protocol stack indication parameter may include a service type and / or protocol stack requirement for identifying the UE when initiating a service request. In one embodiment, the protocol stack indication parameter may include at least one of the following: service type parameter and protocol stack capability parameter; service type parameter; protocol stack capability parameter.

[0211] The service type parameters can include Integrated Sensing and Communications services (ISACS), Intelligence Endogenous services (IES), Computing Power Endogenous services (CPES), Security Endogenous services (SES), Data Processing services (DPS), and Digital Twin services (DTS).

[0212] For example, please refer to Table 1 below, which illustrates the above business type parameters and corresponding feature descriptions. The feature descriptions are examples of business types represented by slice parameters.

[0213] Table 1

[0214] Business type parameters Feature description ISAC Slices suitable for synesthesia and sensing business processing IES Slices suitable for intelligent endogenous business processing CPES Slices suitable for endogenous computing power business processing SES Slices suitable for secure endogenous business processing DPS Slices suitable for data processing business processing DTS Slices suitable for digital twin business processing ...... ......

[0215] The protocol stack capability parameters may include: Integrated Sensing Transmission Protocol (ISTP), Artificial Intelligence Transmission Protocol (AITP), Computing Power Transmission Protocol (CPTP), Security Endogenous Transmission Protocol (SETP), Data Process Transmission Protocol (DPTP), and Digital Twin Transmission Protocol (DTTP).

[0216] Each service type parameter corresponds to a protocol stack capability parameter. In practical applications, the protocol stack indicator parameter can carry one or more service type parameters, or one or more protocol stack capability parameters, or one or more service type parameters and corresponding one or more protocol stack capability parameters.

[0217] The SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE's service request. This protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF can correspond to the UE's service request. For example, if the UE's service request is a service establishment request, then the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF is a protocol orchestration generation request. If the UE's service request is a service update request, then the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF is a protocol orchestration update request. If the UE's service request is a service release request, then the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF is a protocol orchestration release request.

[0218] S102, Configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0219] After receiving the stack orchestration configuration request, the protocol orchestration generator configures the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request. That is, the protocol orchestration generator dynamically orchestrates the protocol stack based on this protocol stack indication parameter, and then configures the protocol stacks obtained from each orchestration onto the corresponding programmable user plane to complete the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane.

[0220] The process of the protocol orchestration generator dynamically orchestrating the protocol stack and then configuring each protocol stack onto the corresponding programmable user plane can also correspond to the UE service request.

[0221] For example, if the UE service request is a service establishment request, the protocol orchestration generator can dynamically orchestrate the protocol stack and then establish the orchestrated protocol stack on the corresponding programmable user plane. If the UE service request is a service update request, the protocol orchestration generator can dynamically orchestrate the protocol stack and then update the orchestrated protocol stack on the corresponding programmable user plane. If the UE service request is a service release request, the protocol orchestration generator can dynamically orchestrate the protocol stack and then release the protocol stack that needs to be released from the corresponding programmable user plane.

[0222] In this embodiment, the protocol orchestration generator receives a protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, and configures the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request. Essentially, when faced with a UE service request, the SMF can instruct the protocol orchestration generator to dynamically configure the protocol stack corresponding to the service request for the programmable user plane required by the service request based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request. This ensures that the protocol stack used by the programmable user plane is adapted to the UE service request, enabling the programmable user plane to transmit UE service data using a protocol stack adapted to the UE service, thereby meeting the diverse service processing needs of the UE and improving the overall network performance.

[0223] In practice, there can be multiple protocol orchestration generators, and each protocol orchestration generator can handle different protocol stack types. Therefore, in the above embodiments, the protocol orchestration generator, as the execution entity, is the one selected by the SMF from one or more pre-configured protocol orchestration generators that is compatible with the UE's service request after receiving the UE's service request. Based on this, in order to make the logic of the embodiments of this application more coherent, before describing the process of the protocol orchestration generator configuring the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE's service request, we will first describe how the SMF selects the protocol orchestration generator in the embodiments of this application.

[0224] In one embodiment, before the SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator, the SMF obtains the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack indication parameters; and selects the aforementioned protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0225] In this embodiment, the protocol stack indication parameter can indicate which protocol stack parameters are required for the UE service request. Therefore, the SMF can determine the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack indication parameter, and then select the above-mentioned protocol orchestration generator in combination with the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing. This allows the selected protocol orchestration generator to accurately and dynamically orchestrate and configure the user plane protocol stack required for the UE service request, ensuring that the processed user plane path can complete the UE service processing.

[0226] In one embodiment, if the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters, the SMF can directly determine the protocol stack corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing. For example, the protocol stack indication parameters may include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or they may only include protocol stack capability parameters. Thus, since the protocol stack indication parameters only include protocol stack capability parameters, the SMF can directly determine the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack capability parameters, making it more convenient and efficient for the SMF to determine the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0227] In another embodiment, if the protocol stack indication parameters do not include protocol stack capability parameters, that is, if the protocol stack indication parameters only include service type parameters, then the SMF needs to first determine the corresponding protocol stack parameters based on the service type parameters, and then determine the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack corresponding to the determined service type parameters.

[0228] Specifically, the SMF can determine the corresponding protocol stack based on the service type parameter by querying the protocol stack parameter corresponding to the service type parameter according to the preset mapping relationship between the service type parameter and the protocol stack parameter, and then determining the queried protocol stack parameter as the protocol stack parameter required for UE service processing.

[0229] The mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters can be represented in the form of a table. Moreover, this mapping relationship can be the relationship between the name of the service type parameter and the name of the protocol stack capability parameter, or the relationship between the parameter value of the service type parameter and the protocol value of the protocol stack capability parameter. Of course, this mapping relationship can also include both a name and a value.

[0230] Please refer to Table 2 below, which illustrates the mapping relationship between service type and protocol stack parameters when both a name and a corresponding value are available.

[0231] Table 2

[0232]

[0233]

[0234] In Table 2 above, taking the first row as an example, ISAC represents the service type parameter carried by the UE, with a corresponding parameter value of 7. Its mapped protocol stack capability parameter is ISTP, with a corresponding protocol value of A. The meanings of the other rows are similar and will not be described in detail here. The numbers 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, and the letters A, B, C, D, E, and F in Table 2 are merely examples, used to explain and indicate the parameter values ​​and protocol stack values ​​of the service type parameter. Other representations are also possible and are not limited here.

[0235] In one embodiment, this mapping relationship may be stored in the SMF or in a separate network function module.

[0236] If the mapping relationship is stored in the SMF, the SMF can directly query the mapping relationship based on the service type parameter to obtain the protocol stack corresponding to the service type parameter. If the mapping relationship exists in an independent network function module, the SMF needs to read and query within that network function module to obtain the protocol stack corresponding to the service type parameter.

[0237] In this embodiment, when the SMF only contains service type parameters in the protocol stack indication parameters, the corresponding protocol stack parameters can be determined by querying the mapping relationship. This allows for the determination of the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing. Because the mapping relationship is pre-defined and highly accurate, querying the mapping relationship ensures the accuracy of the determined protocol stack parameters. Furthermore, the requirement to determine the necessary protocol stack parameters simply by querying the mapping relationship greatly enhances the efficiency of determining the required protocol stack. Additionally, in this embodiment, the mapping relationship can be stored either within the SMF or in an independent network function module, thus improving the flexibility of mapping relationship storage.

[0238] After determining the protocol stack parameters required for the UE service request, the method of selecting the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack required for the UE service request can vary depending on the storage location of the protocol orchestration generator to be selected.

[0239] The protocol orchestration generator to be selected can be pre-configured and can be stored locally in the SMF or in other locations, such as in the network repository function element.

[0240] In one embodiment, if the pre-configured protocol orchestration generator is stored locally in the SMF, the process of selecting the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request includes: selecting the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the local pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information.

[0241] The specific content included in the protocol orchestration generator information is not limited. For example, it may include the name and identifier of the protocol orchestration generator, the protocol stacks supported for orchestration configuration, the supported UE service types, and the current running status (such as idle or occupied).

[0242] Of course, the protocol orchestration generator stored locally in the SMF can be multiple or just one. If there are multiple, the protocol orchestration generator that matches the protocol stack parameters required by the UE's service request is selected based on the protocol orchestration generator information stored locally in the SMF. If there is only one protocol orchestration generator stored locally, it can be directly selected as the protocol orchestration generator.

[0243] In another embodiment, if the pre-configured protocol orchestration generator is stored in the network repository function element, the process of selecting the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol stack required by the UE service request includes: sending a query command to the network repository function element according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, instructing the network repository function element to select the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol orchestration generator related information it processes; and then receiving the protocol orchestration generator sent by the network repository function element.

[0244] Among them, the network storage function network element can have the same protocol orchestration generator information managed by itself as the protocol orchestration generator information stored locally in the SMF mentioned above.

[0245] When the SMF needs to select a protocol orchestration generator, it sends a query command to the network repository function element. This query command can carry the protocol stack parameters required by the determined UE service request, so that the network repository function element can select a protocol orchestration generator that matches the UE service based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request.

[0246] Similarly, the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element can be multiple or a single one. If there are multiple generators, the network repository function element selects the one that matches the protocol stack parameters required by the UE's service request and sends it to the SMF. If there is only one generator, the network repository function element can directly send it to the SMF. After receiving the protocol orchestration generator sent by the network repository function element, the SMF obtains the selected protocol orchestration generator.

[0247] In this embodiment, the SMF obtains the selected protocol orchestration generator using different methods depending on the storage location of the pre-configured protocol orchestration generator. This improves the flexibility of the SMF in selecting the protocol orchestration generator and also makes the storage method of the pre-configured protocol orchestration generator more flexible. Furthermore, regardless of the method used, the protocol orchestration generator is selected based on the protocol stack required by the UE's service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information. This ensures that the selected protocol orchestration generator is more suitable for the UE's services, thereby meeting the diverse service processing needs of the UE.

[0248] The process of configuring the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request in S102 is described below. In one embodiment, the above S102 steps include the following: creating a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane according to the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request; configuring the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane.

[0249] In this embodiment, the programmable user plane required for the UE service request includes one or more. Therefore, the protocol orchestration generator needs to create a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, and then configure the created protocol stack configuration file onto each programmable user plane accordingly.

[0250] Optionally, the protocol stack orchestration configuration request may include one or more of the following: protocol stack parameters required for the UE service request; attributes of one or more programmable user planes required for the UE service request; topology relationships between multiple programmable user planes; and protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of the UE service.

[0251] When orchestrating and generating protocol stacks, the protocol orchestration generator needs to know in advance which programmable user planes to generate protocol stacks for, and which protocol stacks are applicable. Therefore, the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF to the protocol orchestration generator can carry information such as the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of one or more programmable user planes required by the UE service request, and the topology relationship between the programmable user planes when there are multiple programmable user planes.

[0252] The protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request inform the protocol orchestration generator which protocol stacks need to be generated. One or more programmable user plane attributes inform the orchestration generator which programmable user planes the required protocol stacks will be used on, along with relevant information about these programmable user planes, such as identifier, storage location, name, existing functions, and current operating status. This information allows the protocol orchestration generator to configure more accurate and service-compatible protocol stacks.

[0253] When there is only one programmable user plane that needs to be used, there is no need to carry the topology relationship. However, if there are multiple programmable user planes that need to be used, the topology relationship between these multiple programmable user planes can also be carried. In this way, when configuring the protocol stack, the protocol orchestration generator not only considers the information of the programmable user plane itself, but also considers the topology relationship between each programmable user plane and other programmable user planes, which further ensures the accuracy of the protocol stack configured for the programmable user plane and the adaptability between the protocol stack and the service.

[0254] Among them, the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of the UE service refer to some relevant information of the original programmable user plane of the service before the service change, such as the identifier, storage location, name, existing functions, current running status, etc., as well as the protocol stack configured for these original programmable user planes. This makes it convenient for the protocol orchestration generator to compare the old service and the new service and clarify what needs to be considered when configuring the protocol stack.

[0255] In practical applications, after receiving a protocol orchestration configuration request from the SMF, the protocol orchestration generator can dynamically configure the protocol stack of the programmable user plane in real time, even without a protocol stack. However, if the protocol orchestration generator has already generated one or more protocol stacks in advance, it can configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane based on the pre-generated protocol stacks. The following specific examples illustrate these two scenarios.

[0256] First, we will explain the process by which the protocol orchestration generator dynamically configures the protocol stack of the programmable user plane in real time.

[0257] In one embodiment, the process by which the above-mentioned protocol orchestration generator creates protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes: orchestrating the protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request; and creating protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the orchestrated protocol stack required by the UE service request.

[0258] First, the protocol orchestration generator can orchestrate the protocol stack required by the received UE service request based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request.

[0259] Since the UE service request in this embodiment may include UE service establishment request, UE service update request, or UE service release request, the process of the protocol orchestration generator orchestrating the protocol stack required for the UE service request is also different under these three different types of service requests.

[0260] For UE service requests that are UE service establishment requests: The protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF to the protocol orchestration generator is specifically a protocol stack orchestration generation request. The protocol orchestration generator orchestrates the protocol stack required by the UE service request, specifically performing the orchestration and generation of the programmable user plane protocol stack.

[0261] Since a service establishment request is a scenario for establishing a service, a protocol orchestration generator is needed to generate the protocol stack required for the new service to be established, so that the established service can use the adapted protocol stack to transmit service data.

[0262] When orchestrating and generating protocol stacks, the protocol orchestration generator needs to know in advance which programmable user planes to generate protocol stacks for, and which protocol stacks are applicable. Therefore, the protocol stack orchestration generation request sent by the SMF to the protocol orchestration generator can carry information such as the protocol stacks required for UE service establishment, the attributes of at least one programmable user plane required for UE service establishment, and the topology relationships between programmable user planes when at least one programmable user plane includes multiple programmable user planes.

[0263] The protocol stack required for UE service establishment informs the protocol orchestration generator which protocol stacks need to be generated. At least one programmable user plane attribute informs the protocol orchestration generator which programmable user planes the required protocol stacks will be used on, along with relevant information about these programmable user planes, such as identifier, storage location, name, existing functions, and current operating status. This information allows the protocol orchestration generator to generate more accurate and service-adaptive programmable user plane protocol stacks.

[0264] When there is only one programmable user plane that needs to be used, there is no need to carry the topology relationship. However, if there are multiple programmable user planes that need to be used, the topology relationship between these multiple programmable user planes can also be carried. In this way, when the protocol orchestration generator generates the protocol stack, it not only considers the information of the programmable user plane itself, but also considers the topology relationship between each programmable user plane and other programmable user planes, which further ensures the accuracy of the generated programmable user plane protocol stack and its adaptability to services.

[0265] When the UE service request is a UE service update request: the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by SMF to the protocol orchestration generator is specifically a protocol stack orchestration update request. The protocol orchestration generator orchestrates the protocol stack required by the UE service request, and specifically performs the orchestration and update of the programmable user plane protocol stack.

[0266] A business update request is a scenario that requires updating business processes. Therefore, the protocol orchestration generator needs to update the protocol stack required by the updated business so that the updated business can use the adapted protocol stack to transmit business data.

[0267] When orchestrating and updating the protocol stack, the protocol orchestration generator needs to know in advance which programmable user planes have changed when services are updated, and which protocol stacks are applicable to the changed programmable user planes. Therefore, the protocol stack orchestration update request sent by the SMF to the protocol orchestration generator, in addition to carrying the protocol stack required for UE service establishment, the attributes of at least one programmable user plane required for UE service establishment, and the topology relationships between the programmable user planes, also needs to include the protocol stack and attributes of the original programmable user planes of the UE service. The protocol stack and attributes of the original programmable user planes of the UE service refer to which programmable user planes were used for the original service before the service update and which protocol stacks were used by these programmable user planes. This allows the protocol orchestration generator to easily compare the old and new services and identify the content that needs to be updated.

[0268] The protocol stack required for UE service updates informs the protocol orchestration generator which protocol stacks need to be updated. At least one programmable user plane attribute informs the protocol orchestration generator which programmable user planes the required protocol stacks for this UE service update are used on, along with relevant information about these programmable user planes, such as identifier, storage location, name, existing functions, and current operating status. This information allows the protocol orchestration generator to update the protocol stack to a more accurate and service-compatible programmable user plane.

[0269] When there is only one programmable user plane that needs to be used, there is no need to carry the topology relationship. However, if there are multiple programmable user planes that need to be used, the topology relationship between these multiple programmable user planes can also be carried. In this way, when the protocol orchestration generator orchestrates and updates the protocol stack, it not only considers the information of the programmable user plane itself, but also considers the topology relationship between each programmable user plane and other programmable user planes, which further ensures the accuracy of the updated programmable user plane protocol stack and its adaptability to services.

[0270] In the case where the UE service request is a UE service release request: the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by SMF to the protocol orchestration generator is specifically a protocol stack orchestration release request. The protocol orchestration generator orchestrates the protocol stack required for the UE service request, and specifically performs the orchestration and release of the programmable user plane protocol stack.

[0271] Service release requests are scenarios that require the release of services. Therefore, the protocol orchestration generator must release the protocol stack that has been configured on the programmable user plane of the service, so that the protocol stack on the programmable user plane can be idle after release, making it convenient for other UE services to use.

[0272] When orchestrating and releasing protocol stacks, the protocol orchestration generator needs to know in advance which programmable user planes and which protocol stacks need to be released in the event of service release. Therefore, the protocol stack orchestration and release request sent by the SMF to the protocol orchestration generator, in addition to carrying the protocol stacks required for UE service release, the attributes of at least one programmable user plane required for UE service release, and the topology relationships between the programmable user planes, also needs to include the protocol stack and attributes of the original programmable user plane of the UE service. The protocol stack and attributes of the original programmable user plane of the UE service refer to the original programmable user plane and its protocol stack used before service release, facilitating the protocol orchestration generator to compare the old and new services and determine which content needs to be released.

[0273] The protocol stack required for UE service release is used to inform the protocol orchestration generator which protocol stacks need to be released this time. At least one programmable user plane attribute is used to inform the protocol orchestration generator which programmable user planes the protocol stacks required for this UE service release correspond to, and related information about these programmable user planes, such as identifier, storage location, name, existing functions, current operating status, etc. This information allows the protocol orchestration generator to accurately release the corresponding programmable user plane protocol stacks when releasing protocol stacks.

[0274] When there is only one programmable user plane to be released, there is no need to carry the topology relationship. However, if there are multiple programmable user planes to be released, the topology relationship between these multiple programmable user planes can also be carried. In this way, when the protocol orchestration generator orchestrates the release protocol stack, it not only considers the information of the programmable user plane itself, but also the topology relationship between each programmable user plane and other programmable user planes. This further ensures the accuracy of the protocol stack of the released programmable user plane, so as not to affect the transmission of service data by the remaining protocol stack released by the UE service.

[0275] Based on the protocol stack required for the UE service requests as described above, the protocol orchestration generator creates protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0276] Similarly, the explanations distinguish between three scenarios: business establishment, business update, and business release.

[0277] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack establishment configuration file. The process by which the protocol orchestration generator creates protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request includes: creating protocol stack establishment configuration files for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, and the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, wherein one programmable user plane corresponds to one or more protocol stack establishment configuration files.

[0278] After receiving the protocol stack orchestration generation request, the protocol orchestration generator first performs protocol stack orchestration and generation of the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack required for UE service establishment. After generating all the protocol stacks required for UE service establishment, it creates a protocol stack establishment configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the generated protocol stacks, the attributes of each programmable user plane and the topology relationship between each programmable user plane.

[0279] Optionally, a programmable user plane can establish configuration files for one or more protocol stacks. That is, a programmable user plane can have more than one protocol stack. If required, a programmable user plane can have multiple protocol stacks, ensuring that the programmable user plane can transmit protocol stacks for diverse services.

[0280] In this embodiment, the protocol orchestration generator creates a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane based on information such as the protocol stack required for UE service establishment, the attributes of at least one programmable user plane required for UE service establishment, and the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, so that each programmable user plane can have an adapted and accurate protocol stack.

[0281] In one embodiment, where the protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file, the process by which the above-mentioned protocol orchestration generator creates a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request includes: creating a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane.

[0282] For service updates, after receiving a protocol stack orchestration update request, the protocol orchestration generator first performs protocol stack orchestration and update of the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack required for the UE service update. All protocol stacks required for the UE service update are newly generated or replaced. Then, based on the updated protocol stack, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the original protocol stack and attributes of the programmable user plane, a protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane is created.

[0283] One programmable user plane can correspond to one or more protocol stack update configuration files. That is, a programmable user plane can have more than one protocol stack. If required, a programmable user plane can have multiple protocol stacks, enabling the programmable user plane to transmit protocol stacks for diverse services.

[0284] In another embodiment, creating a protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane includes at least one of the following: creating a new protocol stack configuration file for the newly added programmable user plane; and updating the protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0285] Because updates involve adding, deleting, and replacing old protocols with new ones, in practical applications, the protocol orchestration generator creates protocol stack update configuration files for each programmable user plane. This can be done by creating a corresponding protocol stack update configuration file for a newly added programmable user plane or a newly added protocol stack, or by replacing an existing programmable user plane with a new protocol stack update configuration file. Alternatively, it can create an empty file for the protocol stack on a programmable user plane to be deleted, thus achieving the effect of deletion.

[0286] In this way, the protocol orchestration generator creates a protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required for UE service update, the attributes of at least one programmable user plane required for UE service update, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane, so that each programmable user plane used by the updated service can have an adapted and accurate protocol stack.

[0287] For service release, after receiving the protocol stack orchestration release request, the protocol orchestration generator first performs protocol stack orchestration of the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack required for UE service release, sorting out all the protocol stacks required for UE service release, and then creates a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the sorted protocol stacks to be released, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the original programmable user plane protocol stacks and attributes.

[0288] One programmable user plane can correspond to one or more protocol stack release configuration files. If a programmable user plane needs to release multiple protocol stacks, multiple protocol stack release configuration files can be created to ensure the accuracy of protocol stack release.

[0289] In another embodiment, the protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane includes an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality.

[0290] Releasing a protocol stack essentially involves deleting the protocol stack that has already been configured on the programmable user plane. In practical applications, the protocol orchestration generator creates a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane. This can be an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality, thus achieving the deletion effect.

[0291] In this embodiment of the application, the protocol orchestration generator creates a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack to be released for UE service release, the attributes of at least one programmable user plane to be released for UE service release, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane, so that the protocol stack of each programmable user plane corresponding to the service release can be released accurately.

[0292] After creating the protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane, each protocol stack configuration file needs to be configured onto the corresponding programmable user plane to complete the protocol stack configuration process for the programmable user plane.

[0293] In this embodiment, the process of configuring the protocol stack configuration file onto the corresponding programmable user plane can include two methods: direct configuration and indirect configuration. Direct configuration means that the protocol orchestration generator itself configures the protocol stack configuration file onto the programmable user plane; indirect configuration means that the protocol orchestration generator sends the protocol stack configuration file to the SMF, which then configures it onto the programmable user plane.

[0294] In one embodiment, configuring the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane includes: sending the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane; and / or sending a protocol orchestration response message to the SMF, wherein the protocol orchestration response message carries the attributes of each programmable user plane and the protocol stack configuration file; the protocol orchestration response message is used to instruct the SMF to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

[0295] The protocol orchestration generator sends the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane in a direct configuration manner. That is, the protocol orchestration generator configures the protocol stack configuration file on the programmable user plane itself. Specifically, the protocol orchestration generator sends the created protocol stack configuration file to the corresponding programmable user plane, and each programmable user plane automatically completes the protocol stack configuration operation in the protocol stack configuration file after receiving it.

[0296] Sending a protocol orchestration response message to the SMF corresponds to the indirect configuration method. This means the protocol orchestration generator sends the configuration files for each protocol stack to the SMF, allowing the SMF to complete the configuration. Specifically, the SMF receives a protocol orchestration generation response message from the protocol orchestration generator, carrying the attributes of each programmable user plane and the protocol stack configuration file. The attributes of each programmable user plane are provided so the SMF knows which programmable user planes exist and their locations, facilitating the SMF to distribute the received protocol stack configuration files to the corresponding programmable user planes. Similarly, after receiving the files from the SMF, each programmable user plane automatically completes the protocol stack configuration operations in its configuration file.

[0297] For example, during service establishment, the protocol orchestration generator distributes the created protocol stack establishment configuration file to the corresponding programmable user plane. Upon receiving the file, each programmable user plane automatically installs and runs the protocol stack specified in the configuration file, thus completing the protocol stack establishment and configuration operations. Similarly, the SMF distributes the received protocol stack establishment configuration file to the corresponding programmable user plane. Upon receiving the file from the SMF, each programmable user plane automatically installs and runs the protocol stack specified in the configuration file, thus completing the protocol stack establishment and configuration operations.

[0298] For example, in the event of a service update, the protocol orchestration generator will send the created protocol stack update configuration file to the corresponding programmable user plane. After receiving the file, each programmable user plane will automatically install and run the protocol stack in the protocol stack update configuration file to complete the update configuration operation of the protocol stack in the protocol stack configuration file.

[0299] Naturally, the corresponding protocol stack is configured on the corresponding programmable user plane. This configured programmable user plane can be a new programmable user plane, on which the protocol stack is configured; that is, both the programmable user plane and the protocol stack are updated; or it can be an old programmable user plane, but its protocol stack configuration is updated, that is, only the protocol stack is updated; or it can be a hybrid update of the two. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0300] Alternatively, the protocol orchestration generator can send the update configuration files for each protocol stack to the SMF, which then distributes the received update configuration files to the corresponding programmable user planes. Once each programmable user plane receives the file from the SMF, it will automatically install and run the protocol stacks in the update configuration files to complete the update configuration operations for the protocol stacks in the configuration files.

[0301] For example, in the case of service release, although it is a release, it is also a replacement with an empty file or a file without any protocol stack. Therefore, it is also necessary to configure the release configuration files of each protocol stack on the corresponding programmable user plane to complete the protocol stack release process of the programmable user plane.

[0302] In other words, the protocol orchestration generator distributes the created protocol stack release configuration files to the corresponding programmable user planes. Upon receiving these files, each programmable user plane automatically deletes and releases the protocol stacks specified in the configuration file, completing the protocol stack release configuration operation. Furthermore, the protocol orchestration generator sends each protocol stack release configuration file to the SMF (Software-Defined Function), enabling the SMF to distribute the received configuration files to the corresponding programmable user planes. Upon receiving the files from the SMF, each programmable user plane automatically deletes and releases the protocol stacks specified in the configuration file, completing the protocol stack release configuration operation.

[0303] In this embodiment, when configuring the protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane, either a direct configuration method can be used to allow the protocol orchestration generator to complete the protocol stack configuration itself, or an indirect configuration method can be used to send the protocol stack configuration file to the SMF, allowing the SMF to complete the protocol stack configuration. This greatly enhances the flexibility of protocol stack configuration for programmable user planes.

[0304] The above is an introduction to the protocol stack configuration files required by the protocol orchestration generator to dynamically orchestrate service requests. The following explains the process by which the protocol orchestration generator creates protocol stack configuration files based on a pre-generated protocol stack.

[0305] In one embodiment, a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane is created based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request. This includes creating a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the pre-generated protocol stack.

[0306] In this embodiment, if the protocol orchestration generator has pre-generated one or more protocol stacks, the SMF, upon receiving a UE service request, can first determine at least one programmable user plane required by the UE service based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request. Then, the SMF sends the determined programmable user plane attributes, its topology, and the protocol stack requirements of the UE service request to the protocol orchestration generator. Because the protocol orchestration generator has pre-generated one or more protocol stacks, it can directly determine the corresponding protocol stack based on the pre-generated protocol stacks, eliminating the need for dynamic protocol stack orchestration and thus saving the protocol orchestration generator's data processing resources.

[0307] The protocol orchestration generator creates a protocol stack function configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationships between programmable user planes, and pre-generated protocol stacks. Optionally, the protocol stack function configuration file for each programmable user plane includes a protocol stack selected from the pre-generated protocol stacks that meets the UE service requirements, or a default protocol stack selected from the pre-generated protocol stacks.

[0308] After receiving the attributes of each programmable user plane and the topology relationships between them, the protocol orchestration generator creates protocol stack function configuration files for each programmable user plane based on its pre-generated protocol stacks. Since the protocol orchestration generator uses pre-generated protocol stacks for creating these configuration files, some of these pre-generated protocol stacks may meet the UE's service requirements, while others may not.

[0309] If a protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements exists in the pre-generated protocol stack, the protocol orchestration generator will prioritize selecting the protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements to create the protocol stack function configuration file. This ensures that the protocol stacks configured for each programmable user plane can meet the UE's service requirements.

[0310] If the pre-generated protocol stack does not contain a protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements, the protocol orchestration generator can select a default protocol stack to create a protocol stack function configuration file. For example, the default protocol stack could be the most frequently used protocol stack, or a protocol stack pre-marked with a default identifier, etc. This application embodiment does not limit this. In this way, although the protocol stack ultimately configured for the programmable user plane cannot meet the UE's service requirements, because the default protocol stack is selected, which is the most suitable protocol stack provided by the protocol orchestration generator under limited conditions, the UE's service data transmission can still be guaranteed to a certain extent.

[0311] In addition, if the pre-generated protocol stack does not contain a protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements, the protocol stack function configuration file can be created without using the default protocol stack as the basis, and a message indicating that the UE service establishment request failed can be sent directly.

[0312] In one embodiment, the method further includes: sending a UE service request failure message to the SMF if there is no protocol stack in the pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE service requirements.

[0313] If the protocol stack generated in advance by the protocol orchestration generator does not contain a protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements, it means that the configuration of the user plane protocol stack required for this UE service request has failed. In this case, a failure message can be requested from the SMFUE service.

[0314] In this embodiment, when there is no protocol stack in the pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE service requirements, a request failure message is directly sent, which facilitates the SMF to adjust the UE service request processing in a timely manner and saves network processing resources.

[0315] In this embodiment, the protocol orchestration generator has pre-generated one or more protocol stacks. Compared to the aforementioned dynamic orchestration and configuration of protocol stacks, the main difference is that after receiving a service request from the UE, the SMF parses the service type parameters and / or protocol stack capability parameters, selects the programmable user plane, and then sends all the information of the selected programmable user plane to the protocol orchestration generator, instructing the protocol orchestration generator to deliver the protocol stack functions according to the pre-generated protocol stack. If the protocol stack already generated by the protocol orchestration generator does not meet the UE's service requirements, it delivers the default protocol stack or returns a message indicating that the UE's service request failed.

[0316] In the aforementioned dynamic orchestration configuration protocol stack, the SMF parses the service type parameters and / or protocol stack capability parameters carried in the UE service request message, sends all the information of the protocol stack requirements and programmable user plane to the protocol orchestration generator, instructs the protocol orchestration generator to perform protocol stack orchestration generation / update / release, programmable user plane selection, etc., and then issues the corresponding protocol stack functions to the selected programmable user plane.

[0317] In either case, the embodiments of this application can implement a method for configuring the protocol stack of the programmable user plane according to the relevant service type parameters and / or protocol stack parameters it carries, completing the path selection of the programmable user plane, and completing the service processing of the UE.

[0318] After the programmable user planes required for UE service requests have completed protocol stack installation and configuration, in this embodiment, the SMF can also process the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on each programmable user plane with the protocol stack configured. It is understood that although the user plane path processing is a step executed by the SMF, it is described in detail here for logical coherence. Subsequent embodiments of the SMF-side execution entity can refer to this process, and will not be repeated hereafter.

[0319] The configuration of the protocol stack in each programmable user plane indicates that the protocol stack on the programmable user plane is compatible with the current UE's service request. The SMF performs user plane path processing based on the programmable user plane, so that the user plane path can adapt to the UE service data required to be transmitted by the UE service request and complete the UE service processing.

[0320] The SMF handles the user plane path differently depending on the UE's service request. For example, if the UE's service request is a service establishment request, the SMF will handle it as establishing the user plane path. If the UE's service request is a service update request, the SMF will handle it as updating the user plane path. If the UE's service request is a service release request, the SMF will handle it as releasing the user plane path.

[0321] Regarding the UE service establishment status, the SMF processes the user plane path for transmitting UE service data as follows: In one embodiment, the SMF processes the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on the configured programmable user plane, including: sending a service establishment request to the configured programmable user plane to request the configured programmable user plane to allocate user plane resources required for the UE service; and sending a service establishment response message to the UE based on the service establishment response sent by the configured programmable user plane after completing the allocation of user plane resources, indicating that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully established.

[0322] The SMF sends a service establishment request to each programmable user plane configured with a protocol stack. Since it is a service establishment request, it requests each programmable user plane configured with a protocol stack to allocate user plane resources, that is, to allocate the user plane resources to be used based on the UE service to be processed. After the user plane resources are allocated, each programmable user plane replies to the SMF with a service establishment response message.

[0323] After receiving the service establishment response message, the SMF sends another service establishment response message to the UE to inform the UE that the user plane path of the requested service has been successfully established and the service can be processed normally thereafter.

[0324] In this embodiment of the application, after completing the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane, the SMF continues to request the programmable user plane to complete the allocation of user plane resources for establishing the user plane path, so that the successfully established user plane path can have the resources to transmit UE service data, thus ensuring the normal processing of UE services.

[0325] The prerequisite for the SMF to send a service establishment request to the configured programmable user plane is that the SMF already knows some protocol stack establishment-related information and identifiers of the configured programmable user plane. If the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane is completed by the SMF, the SMF can naturally know it after configuration. However, considering that the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane may be completed by the protocol orchestration generator through direct configuration, in this case, the SMF also needs to obtain it from the protocol orchestration generator.

[0326] In one embodiment, the SMF sending a service establishment request to the configured programmable user plane includes: receiving the protocol stack establishment information and attributes of the configured programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator; and sending a service establishment request to the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack establishment information and attributes of the configured programmable user plane.

[0327] In other words, the SMF will receive the configured protocol stack establishment information and attributes of the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This allows the SMF to send service establishment requests to the programmable user plane based on the configured protocol stack establishment information and attributes, thus ensuring the success rate of the SMF sending service establishment requests to the programmable user plane.

[0328] Regarding UE service updates, the SMF processes the user plane path for transmitting UE service data as follows: In one embodiment, the SMF processes the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on the configured programmable user plane, including: sending a service update request to the configured programmable user plane to request the configured programmable user plane to update the user plane resources required for the UE service; and sending a service update response message to the UE based on the service update response sent by the configured programmable user plane after completing the user plane resource update, indicating that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully updated.

[0329] The SMF sends a service update request to each programmable user plane configured with a protocol stack. Since it is a service update, the request is for each programmable user plane configured with a protocol stack to update user plane resources, that is, to update the user plane resources required for the UE service update to be processed. After the user plane resources are updated, each programmable user plane replies to the SMF with a service update response message.

[0330] After receiving the service update response message, the SMF sends another service update response message to the UE to inform the UE that the user plane path of the requested service has been successfully updated and the service can be processed normally thereafter.

[0331] In this embodiment of the application, after completing the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane, the SMF continues to request the programmable user plane to complete the user plane resource update for establishing the user plane path, so that the successfully updated user plane path can have the resources to transmit UE service data, thus ensuring the normal processing of UE services.

[0332] The prerequisite for the SMF to send a service update request to the configured programmable user plane is that the SMF already knows some protocol stack update-related information and identifiers of the configured programmable user plane. If the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane is completed by the SMF, the SMF can naturally know this information after configuration. However, considering that the protocol stack configuration of the programmable user plane may be completed by the protocol orchestration generator through direct configuration, in this case, the SMF also needs to obtain this information from the protocol orchestration generator.

[0333] In one embodiment, the SMF sending a service update request to the configured programmable user plane includes: receiving the protocol stack update information and attributes of the configured programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator; and sending a service update request to the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack update information and attributes of the configured programmable user plane.

[0334] In other words, the SMF will receive the configured protocol stack update information and attributes of the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This allows the SMF to send service update requests to the programmable user plane based on the configured protocol stack update information and attributes, thus ensuring the success rate of the SMF sending service update requests to the programmable user plane.

[0335] When a UE service is released, the configuration of the protocol stack for the programmable user plane can also be considered as the release of the protocol stack for the programmable user plane. Based on this, the SMF can process the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on the programmable user plane after the protocol stack has been released. The process is as follows: In one embodiment, the SMF processes the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on the configured programmable user plane, including: sending a service release request to the configured programmable user plane, requesting the configured programmable user plane to release the user plane resources for the UE service; and sending a service release response message to the UE based on the service release response sent by the configured programmable user plane after completing the allocation of user plane resources, indicating that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully released.

[0336] The SMF sends a service release request to each programmable user plane that has released its protocol stack. Since it is a service release, the request is for each programmable user plane that has released its protocol stack to release user plane resources. That is, based on the UE service to be released, the allocated user plane resources are released. After the user plane resources are released, each programmable user plane replies to the SMF with a service release response message.

[0337] After receiving the service release response message, the SMF sends another service release response message to the UE to inform the UE that the user plane path of the service it requested to release has been successfully released.

[0338] In this embodiment, after the protocol stack of the programmable user plane is released, the SMF continues to request the programmable user plane to release the user plane resources of the user plane path, so that the successfully released user plane path can be idle and used when other UE services need it, thus ensuring the reusability of UE service resources.

[0339] The prerequisite for the SMF to send a service release request to the released programmable user plane is that the SMF already knows the protocol stack information and identifiers related to the release of the programmable user plane. If the release of the programmable user plane protocol stack is performed by the SMF, the SMF can naturally know this after the release. However, considering that the release of the programmable user plane protocol stack may be performed by the protocol orchestration generator using a direct configuration method, in this case, the SMF also needs to obtain this information from the protocol orchestration generator.

[0340] In one embodiment, the SMF sending a service release request to the configured programmable user plane includes: receiving the protocol stack release information and attributes of the configured programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator; and sending a service release request to the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack release information and attributes of the configured programmable user plane.

[0341] In other words, the SMF will receive the configured protocol stack release information and attributes of the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This allows the SMF to send service release requests to the programmable user plane based on the configured protocol stack release information and attributes, thus ensuring the success rate of the SMF sending service release requests to the programmable user plane.

[0342] As can be seen from the foregoing embodiments, in the embodiments of this application, when the UE initiates a service request, the service request carries newly added parameters, namely service type parameters and / or protocol stack capability parameters. These service type parameters and / or protocol stack capability parameters can be represented by new slice parameters. That is, based on the existing slice parameters, new slice parameters are redefined to identify the service type and / or protocol stack requirements of the UE when initiating a service request.

[0343] When the SMF receives a service request from the UE, it sends a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator based on the service type parameter and / or protocol stack parameter.

[0344] The protocol orchestration generator dynamically orchestrates and generates a protocol stack based on its protocol stack requirements, then configures it onto the corresponding programmable user plane, and then feeds back the configured programmable user plane information to the SMF. Based on this, the SMF completes the selection and routing process of the UPF.

[0345] If the service request only carries a service type parameter, the SMF needs to map the service type parameter to the protocol stack locally or in another module. The process by which the protocol orchestration generator configures the protocol stack onto the corresponding programmable user plane can be either direct or indirect. Direct configuration involves the protocol orchestration generator configuring the protocol stack capabilities onto the programmable user plane, while indirect configuration involves the protocol orchestration generator sending the protocol stack capability file to the SMF, which then configures it onto the programmable user plane.

[0346] The protocol orchestration generator is used to orchestrate and generate protocol stacks. When a UE's service request is received, it orchestrates and generates the protocol stack based on the corresponding protocol stack capabilities. If the protocol orchestration generator has already generated the protocol stack before receiving the protocol stack capabilities required by the UE's service, it only needs to orchestrate it and configure the orchestrated protocol stack (directly or indirectly) to the corresponding programmable user plane. If the protocol orchestration generator has not generated the protocol stack in advance, it dynamically generates it based on the protocol stack capabilities required by the UE's service, and then completes the protocol stack configuration for the programmable user plane.

[0347] The method for dynamically orchestrating and configuring the programmable user plane protocol stack provided in this application embodiment can configure the protocol stack functions of the programmable user plane according to the service type parameters and / or protocol stack parameters it carries, complete the path selection of the programmable user plane, and thus complete the UE service processing. This effectively solves the problem that under the new network architecture, the network functions are no longer limited to a single connection function, but have richer and more diverse application scenarios, such as sensing functions, intelligent functions, and computing functions. The UPF protocol stack functions corresponding to these services will no longer be limited to the GTP-U protocol, or in other words, the GTP-U protocol stack capabilities will not be able to handle the needs of these services.

[0348] Based on the same technical concept, this application also provides an embodiment of a protocol stack configuration method using SMF as the execution subject. The principles, methods, and achievable technical effects involved in the implementation process of each step in the protocol stack configuration method embodiment using SMF as the execution subject are the same as those in the previous embodiment using a protocol orchestration generator as the execution subject. Therefore, the parts in this application that are the same as the aforementioned method embodiments and their beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0349] The following are examples of protocol stack configuration methods using SMF as the execution entity.

[0350] This application provides a protocol stack configuration method applied to SMF, the method comprising:

[0351] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, a protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0352] In one embodiment, before sending a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator, the method further includes:

[0353] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters, obtain the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing;

[0354] Select the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0355] In one embodiment, obtaining the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack indication parameters includes:

[0356] When the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the service type parameters are queried according to the preset mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters, and the queried protocol stack parameters are determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0357] If the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or if the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters shall be determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0358] In one embodiment, the mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters is stored in the SMF or in a separate network function module.

[0359] In one embodiment, the protocol orchestration generator is selected based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, including:

[0360] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information, select the protocol orchestration generator; or,

[0361] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, a query command is sent to the network repository function element, and a protocol orchestration generator is received from the network repository function element. The query command is used to instruct the network repository function element to select a protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol orchestration generator information and protocol stack parameters managed by itself.

[0362] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0363] Receive the protocol orchestration response message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol orchestration response message carries multiple programmable user plane attributes and protocol stack configuration files.

[0364] Based on the attributes of each programmable user plane, send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane.

[0365] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0366] Receive a UE service request failure message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This message is sent when the protocol orchestration generator does not have a protocol stack in its pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements; or...

[0367] Based on the programmable user plane, the user plane path for transmitting UE service data is processed.

[0368] In one embodiment, processing of the user plane path for transmitting UE service data, based on the programmable user plane, includes:

[0369] Send a service processing request to the programmable user plane. The service processing request is used to request the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service to be processed by the programmable user plane.

[0370] Based on the service response sent by the programmable user plane after completing user plane resource processing, a service processing response message is sent to the UE. The service processing response message is used to indicate that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0371] In one embodiment, sending a service processing request to the programmable user plane includes:

[0372] Receive the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator;

[0373] Based on the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane, a service processing request is sent to the programmable user plane.

[0374] Similarly, based on the same technical concept, this application also provides an embodiment of a protocol stack configuration method with a programmable user plane as the execution subject. The principles, methods, and technical effects involved in the implementation process of each step in the protocol stack configuration method with a programmable user plane as the execution subject are the same as those in the previous embodiment with a protocol orchestration generator as the execution subject. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the previous method embodiments and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0375] The following are examples of protocol stack configuration methods that use the programmable user plane as the execution entity.

[0376] In one embodiment, this application provides a protocol stack configuration method applied to a programmable user plane, the method comprising:

[0377] Receive protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator at the instruction of the SMF when it receives a UE service request, based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0378] Configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

[0379] In one embodiment, the receiving protocol stack configuration file includes:

[0380] Receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by SMF; or,

[0381] Receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

[0382] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0383] Receive service processing requests sent by SMF;

[0384] Process the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service according to the service processing request;

[0385] After completing user plane resource processing, a service processing response is sent to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a service response message to the UE. The service response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0386] Similarly, based on the same technical concept, this application also provides an embodiment of a protocol stack configuration method with UE as the execution subject. The principles, methods and technical effects involved in the implementation process of each step in the protocol stack configuration method with UE as the execution subject are the same as those in the previous embodiment with protocol orchestration generator as the execution subject. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the previous method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0387] The following are examples of protocol stack configuration methods with UE as the execution subject.

[0388] In one embodiment, this application provides a protocol stack configuration method applied to a UE, the method comprising:

[0389] Send a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0390] In one embodiment, sending a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF includes:

[0391] Send a service request to the radio access network. The service request is used to request the radio access network to send the service request to the SMF.

[0392] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0393] Receive the service processing response message sent by SMF. The service processing response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0394] Similarly, based on the same technical concept, this application also provides an embodiment of a protocol stack configuration method with a wireless access network as the execution subject. The principles, methods, and technical effects involved in the implementation process of each step in the embodiment of the protocol stack configuration method with a wireless access network as the execution subject are the same as those in the previous embodiment with a protocol orchestration generator as the execution subject. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the previous method embodiments and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail here.

[0395] The following are examples of protocol stack configuration methods with wireless access networks as the main execution entity.

[0396] In one embodiment, this application provides a protocol stack configuration method applied to a wireless access network, the method comprising:

[0397] Receive service requests sent by the UE; protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service requests;

[0398] Send a service request to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0399] In one embodiment, sending a service request to the SMF includes:

[0400] Select the target SMF that matches the UE's services based on the parameters indicated by the protocol stack;

[0401] Send a service request to the target SMF.

[0402] In addition, this application provides embodiments of protocol stack configuration methods for two UE service establishment scenarios, namely, direct configuration and indirect configuration.

[0403] Example 2.1: This example mainly focuses on the protocol orchestration generator directly completing the dynamic configuration of the protocol stack. For example... Figure 3 As shown, this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0404] S211. The UE initiates a service establishment request to the SMF through the radio access network.

[0405] This service establishment request includes new parameters in addition to the original parameters: service type parameters and / or protocol stack capability parameters.

[0406] S212. After receiving the UE's service establishment request, SMF selects the protocol orchestration generator.

[0407] SMF parses the parameters carried in the service establishment request. If it carries service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, it selects a protocol orchestration generator. If it only carries service type parameters, it first queries the mapping relationship between the service type parameters and their protocol stack capabilities locally, and then selects a protocol orchestration generator.

[0408] The specific method for selecting a protocol orchestration generator can be to query the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element, or to configure the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator locally in the SMF. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0409] S213, SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration generation request to the protocol orchestration generator.

[0410] The information carried in the protocol stack orchestration generation request mainly includes: the attributes of one or more programmable user planes required, the topological relationship between multiple programmable user planes, and the required protocol stack capabilities.

[0411] S214. After receiving the request from SMF, the protocol orchestration generator performs protocol stack orchestration and generation.

[0412] S215. The protocol orchestration generator configures the corresponding protocol stack functions onto the corresponding programmable user plane based on the received programmable user plane attributes and topology information.

[0413] One programmable user plane can be configured with one or more protocol stack functions, which can be determined according to the UE service requirements. The following embodiments are similar and will not be described in detail.

[0414] S216, The protocol stack orchestration generator sends the configured protocol stack information and its identification and other attribute information to the SMF.

[0415] S217. Based on the received protocol stack information and identifier of the programmable user plane, SMF initiates a service establishment request to the corresponding programmable user plane, so that it allocates the corresponding user plane resources.

[0416] S218. After receiving the session establishment request sent by the SMF, the programmable user plane completes the allocation of user plane resources and sends a service establishment response to the SMF.

[0417] After receiving the programmable user plane service establishment response, S219 and SMF send a service establishment response message to the UE to indicate that the service establishment was successful.

[0418] The specific implementation principles and processes of each step in Example 2.1 can be found in the descriptions of the foregoing examples, and will not be repeated here.

[0419] Example 2.2: This example mainly focuses on the protocol orchestration generator indirectly completing the dynamic configuration of the protocol stack. For example... Figure 4 As shown, this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0420] S221, the UE initiates a service establishment request to the SMF via radio access.

[0421] The service establishment request now includes new parameters in addition to the existing ones: service type parameters and / or protocol stack parameters and capability parameters.

[0422] S222, after receiving the service establishment request sent by the UE, the SMF selects the protocol orchestration generator.

[0423] SMF parses the parameters carried in the service establishment request. If it carries service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, it selects a protocol orchestration generator. If it only carries service type parameters, it first queries the mapping relationship between the service type parameters and their protocol stack capabilities locally, and then selects a protocol orchestration generator.

[0424] The specific method for selecting a protocol orchestration generator can be to query the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element, or to configure the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator locally in the SMF. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0425] S223, SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration generation request to the protocol orchestration generator.

[0426] The information carried in the protocol stack orchestration generation request mainly includes: the attributes of one or more programmable user planes required, the topological relationship between multiple programmable user planes, and the required protocol stack capabilities.

[0427] S224. After receiving the request from SMF, the protocol orchestration generator performs protocol stack orchestration and generation.

[0428] S225, the protocol orchestration generator sends a protocol orchestration generation response message to the SMF.

[0429] The protocol orchestration generates response messages that carry attribute information such as the identifier of each programmable user plane, as well as the protocol stack function configuration file corresponding to each programmable user plane (i.e., the aforementioned protocol stack establishment configuration file).

[0430] S226. After receiving the protocol orchestration generation response message, SMF sends a service establishment request to the corresponding programmable user plane, requesting it to allocate user plane resources and distribute the protocol stack function configuration file to complete the protocol stack function configuration of the corresponding programmable user plane.

[0431] S227 After receiving the service establishment request sent by the SMF, the programmable user plane completes the allocation of user plane resources and sends a service establishment response to the SMF.

[0432] S228. After receiving the service establishment response from the programmable user plane, the SMF sends a service establishment response message to the UE, indicating that the service establishment was successful.

[0433] The specific implementation principles and processes of each step in Example 2.2 can be found in the descriptions of the foregoing examples, and will not be repeated here.

[0434] In addition, this application provides embodiments of protocol stack configuration methods for two UE service update scenarios, namely, the direct configuration and the indirect configuration methods described above.

[0435] Example 3.1: This example mainly focuses on the protocol orchestration generator directly completing the dynamic configuration update of the protocol stack. For example... Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0436] S311. Because the UE's services may change at any time, the UE initiates a service update request to the SMF through the radio access network.

[0437] This service update request includes new parameters in addition to the original parameters: service type and / or protocol stack capability parameters.

[0438] After receiving the UE's service update request, S312 and SMF select the protocol orchestration generator.

[0439] SMF parses the parameters carried in this service update request. If it carries service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, it selects a protocol orchestration generator. If it only carries service type parameters, it first queries the mapping relationship between service type parameters and their protocol stack capabilities locally, and then selects a protocol orchestration generator.

[0440] The specific method for selecting a protocol orchestration generator can be to query the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element, or to configure the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator locally in the SMF. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0441] S313, SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration update request to the protocol orchestration generator.

[0442] The information carried in the protocol stack orchestration update request mainly includes: attributes of at least one programmable user plane, the topology between programmable user planes when there are multiple programmable user planes, the required protocol stack capabilities, and old session information. Among them, the old session information refers to the protocol stack information and attribute information of the original programmable user plane.

[0443] S314, The protocol orchestration generator orchestrates and updates the protocol stack.

[0444] S315 The protocol orchestration generator configures the corresponding protocol stack onto the corresponding programmable user plane based on the received programmable user plane attributes and topology information.

[0445] The programmable user plane in this configuration can be a new programmable user plane with its protocol stack configuration updated; that is, both the programmable user plane and the protocol stack are updated; it can also be an old programmable user plane with its protocol stack configuration updated; that is, only the protocol stack is updated; or a hybrid update of both.

[0446] S316, the protocol stack orchestration generator sends the programmable user plane protocol stack update information and its identification and other attribute information to the SMF.

[0447] S317 and SMF initiate service update requests to the corresponding programmable user plane based on the received protocol stack update information and its identifier and other attribute information, requesting it to allocate the corresponding user plane resources.

[0448] S318. After receiving the service update request sent by SMF, the programmable user plane completes the update of user plane resources and sends a service update response to SMF.

[0449] After receiving the service update response from the programmable user plane, S319 and SMF send a service update response message to the UE to indicate that the service update was successful.

[0450] The specific implementation principles and processes of each step in Example 3.1 can be found in the descriptions of the foregoing examples, and will not be repeated here.

[0451] Example 3.2: This example mainly focuses on the protocol orchestration generator indirectly completing the dynamic configuration update of the protocol stack. For example... Figure 6 As shown, this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0452] S321. Because the UE's services may change at any time, the UE initiates a service update request to the SMF through the radio access network.

[0453] This service update request includes new parameters in addition to the original parameters: service type and / or protocol stack capability parameters.

[0454] After receiving the UE's service update request, S322 and SMF select the protocol orchestration generator.

[0455] SMF parses the parameters carried in this service update request. If it carries service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, it selects a protocol orchestration generator. If it only carries service type parameters, it first queries the mapping relationship between service type parameters and their protocol stack capabilities locally, and then selects a protocol orchestration generator.

[0456] The specific method for selecting a protocol orchestration generator can be to query the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element, or to configure the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator locally in the SMF. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0457] S323 and SMF send a protocol stack orchestration update request to the protocol orchestration generator.

[0458] The information carried in the protocol stack orchestration update request mainly includes: attributes of at least one programmable user plane, the topology between programmable user planes when there are multiple programmable user planes, the required protocol stack capabilities, and old session information. Among them, the old session information refers to the protocol stack information and attribute information of the original programmable user plane.

[0459] S324. The protocol orchestration generator orchestrates and updates the protocol stack according to the protocol stack orchestration update request.

[0460] S325, The protocol orchestration generator sends a protocol orchestration update response message to the SMF.

[0461] The protocol orchestration update response message carries attribute information such as the identifier of the programmable user plane, as well as its corresponding protocol stack update configuration file.

[0462] The programmable user plane that needs to be configured can be a new programmable user plane, whose protocol stack configuration file is updated, meaning both the programmable user plane and the protocol stack are updated; it can also be an old programmable user plane, but whose protocol stack configuration file is updated, meaning only the protocol stack is updated; or it can be a hybrid update of both.

[0463] S326 and SMF send service update requests to the corresponding programmable user plane according to the protocol orchestration update response message, requesting the allocation of user plane resources and updating and distributing the protocol stack update configuration file to complete the configuration update of the protocol stack functions.

[0464] S327. After receiving the service update request sent by SMF, the programmable user plane completes the update of user plane resources and sends a service update response to SMF.

[0465] After receiving the service update response from the programmable user plane, S328 and SMF send a service update response message to the UE to indicate that the service update was successful.

[0466] The specific implementation principles and processes of each step in Example 3.2 can be found in the descriptions of the foregoing examples, and will not be repeated here.

[0467] In addition, this application provides embodiments of protocol stack configuration methods for two UE service release scenarios, namely, the direct configuration and the indirect configuration methods described above.

[0468] Example 4.1: This example mainly focuses on the protocol orchestration generator directly completing the dynamic configuration of the protocol stack. For example... Figure 7 As shown, this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0469] S411. When the UE no longer has service requirements, the UE can initiate a service release request to the SMF through the radio access network.

[0470] The service release request includes new parameters in addition to the original parameters: service type parameters and / or protocol stack parameters and capability parameters.

[0471] After receiving the service release request sent by the UE, S412 and SMF select the protocol orchestration generator.

[0472] SMF parses the parameters carried in this service release request. If it carries service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, it selects a protocol orchestration generator. If it only carries service type parameters, it first queries the mapping relationship between service type parameters and their protocol stack capabilities locally, and then selects a protocol orchestration generator.

[0473] The specific method for selecting a protocol orchestration generator can be to query the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element, or to configure the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator locally in the SMF. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0474] S413, SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration release request to the protocol orchestration generator.

[0475] The information carried in the protocol stack orchestration release request mainly includes: attributes of at least one programmable user plane, the topology between programmable user planes when there are multiple programmable user planes, the required protocol stack capabilities, and old session information. Among them, old session information refers to the protocol stack information and attribute information of the original programmable user plane.

[0476] S414. After receiving the protocol stack orchestration release request from SMF, the protocol orchestration generator performs protocol stack orchestration.

[0477] S415. The protocol orchestration generator releases the protocol stack on the corresponding programmable user plane based on the received attributes and topology information of the programmable user plane.

[0478] The specific release method can be to configure an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality.

[0479] S416, the protocol stack orchestration generator sends the programmable user plane protocol stack release information and its identification and other attribute information to the SMF.

[0480] S417 and SMF, based on the received protocol stack release information and its identifier and other attribute information of the programmable user plane, initiate a service release request to the corresponding programmable user plane, so that it releases the corresponding user plane resources.

[0481] S418. After receiving the service release request sent by SMF, the programmable user plane completes the release of user plane resources and sends a service release response to SMF.

[0482] After receiving the service release response from the programmable user plane, S419 and SMF send a service release response message to the UE, indicating that the service release was successful.

[0483] The specific implementation principles and processes of each step in Example 4.1 can be found in the descriptions of the foregoing examples, and will not be repeated here.

[0484] Example 4.2: This example mainly focuses on the protocol orchestration generator indirectly completing the dynamic configuration of the protocol stack. For example... Figure 8 As shown, this embodiment includes the following steps:

[0485] S421. When the UE no longer has service requirements, the UE can initiate a service release request to the SMF through the radio access network.

[0486] The service release request includes new parameters in addition to the original parameters: service type parameters and / or protocol stack parameters and capability parameters.

[0487] After receiving the service release request sent by the UE, S422 and SMF select the protocol orchestration generator.

[0488] SMF parses the parameters carried in this service release request. If it carries service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, it selects a protocol orchestration generator. If it only carries service type parameters, it first queries the mapping relationship between service type parameters and their protocol stack capabilities locally, and then selects a protocol orchestration generator.

[0489] The specific method for selecting a protocol orchestration generator can be to query the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator stored in the network repository function element, or to configure the relevant information of the protocol orchestration generator locally in the SMF. This application embodiment does not make specific limitations.

[0490] S423, SMF sends a protocol stack orchestration release request to the protocol orchestration generator.

[0491] The information carried in the protocol stack orchestration release request mainly includes: attributes of at least one programmable user plane, the topology between programmable user planes when there are multiple programmable user planes, the required protocol stack capabilities, and old session information. Among them, old session information refers to the protocol stack information and attribute information of the original programmable user plane.

[0492] S424. After receiving the protocol stack orchestration release request from SMF, the protocol orchestration generator performs protocol stack orchestration.

[0493] S425, The protocol orchestration generator sends a protocol orchestration release response message to the SMF.

[0494] The protocol orchestration release response message carries attribute information such as the identifier of the programmable user plane, as well as the corresponding protocol stack function configuration (empty or non-functional) file.

[0495] After receiving the protocol orchestration release response message from the protocol orchestration generator, S426 and SMF send a service release request to the corresponding programmable user plane, requesting it to release the allocated user plane resources and distribute the protocol stack function files to complete the release of the protocol stack functions.

[0496] S427. After receiving the service release request sent by SMF, the programmable user plane completes the release of user plane resources and sends a service release response to SMF.

[0497] After receiving the service release response from the programmable user plane, S428 and SMF send a service release response message to the UE, indicating that the service release was successful.

[0498] The specific implementation principles and processes of each step in Example 4.2 can be found in the descriptions of the foregoing examples, and will not be repeated here.

[0499] The implementation principles, processes, and technical effects of each step in the above embodiments are the same as those in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here. Furthermore, each step in each embodiment of this application is not mandatory, and other steps may be included between steps. The steps in each embodiment of this application are not limited to being executed in the stated order. Some steps in each embodiment of this application can be executed in parallel.

[0500] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above are shown sequentially according to the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order restriction on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the flowcharts of the embodiments described above may include multiple steps or multiple stages. These steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the steps or stages of other steps.

[0501] Based on the same inventive concept, this application also provides a protocol stack configuration apparatus for implementing all the protocol stack configuration methods involved above.

[0502] like Figure 9 As shown, this application embodiment provides a protocol stack configuration device 90, which includes:

[0503] The configuration request receiving module 901 is used to receive the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0504] The first protocol stack configuration module 902 is used to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0505] In one embodiment, the first protocol stack configuration module 902 includes:

[0506] The configuration file creation unit is used to create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0507] The protocol stack configuration unit is used to configure the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane.

[0508] In one embodiment, the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes one or more of the following:

[0509] Protocol stack parameters required for UE service requests;

[0510] One or more programmable user plane attributes required for a UE service request;

[0511] Topological relationships between multiple programmable user planes;

[0512] Protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of UE services.

[0513] In one embodiment, creating a configuration file unit includes:

[0514] The protocol stack orchestration subunit is used to orchestrate the protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request.

[0515] The first configuration file creation subunit is used to create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests.

[0516] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack establishment configuration file and a first configuration file creation subunit, which is further configured to create a protocol stack establishment configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, and the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, wherein one programmable user plane corresponds to one or more protocol stack establishment configuration files.

[0517] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file. The first configuration file creation subunit is further configured to create a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane.

[0518] In one embodiment, creating the protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane includes at least one of the following:

[0519] Create a new protocol stack configuration file for the newly added programmable user plane;

[0520] Update the protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0521] In one embodiment, the protocol stack release configuration file includes an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality.

[0522] In one embodiment, creating a configuration file unit includes:

[0523] The second configuration file creation subunit is used to create the protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the pre-generated protocol stack.

[0524] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane includes a protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks that meets the UE service requirements, or a default protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks.

[0525] In one embodiment, the device further includes:

[0526] The failure message sending module is used to send a UE service request failure message to the SMF when there is no protocol stack in the pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE service requirements.

[0527] In one embodiment, the configuration protocol stack unit includes:

[0528] The configuration file sending subunit is used to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration files to each programmable user plane; and / or,

[0529] The orchestration response message sending subunit is used to send protocol orchestration response messages to the SMF. The protocol orchestration response messages carry the attributes of each programmable user plane and the protocol stack configuration file. The protocol orchestration response messages are used to instruct the SMF to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

[0530] In one embodiment, the apparatus further includes a protocol stack information sending module for sending protocol stack information and attributes configured for each programmable user plane to the SMF.

[0531] In one embodiment, this application also provides a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0532] The configuration request sending module is used to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0533] In one embodiment, the device further includes:

[0534] The protocol stack parameter acquisition module is used to acquire the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack indication parameters.

[0535] The orchestration generator selection module is used to select a protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0536] In one embodiment, the protocol stack parameter acquisition module includes:

[0537] The first protocol stack parameter determination unit is used to query the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the service type parameters according to the preset mapping relationship between the service type parameters and the protocol stack parameters when the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters, and determine the queried protocol stack parameters as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0538] The second protocol stack parameter determination unit is used to determine the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing when the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or when the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters.

[0539] In one embodiment, the mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters is stored in the SMF or in a separate network function module.

[0540] In one embodiment, the orchestration generator selection module includes:

[0541] The first orchestration generator selection unit is used to select a protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information; or,

[0542] The second orchestration generator selection unit is used to send a query command to the network repository function element according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, and to receive the protocol orchestration generator sent by the network repository function element; the query command is used to instruct the network repository function element to select a protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol orchestration generator information and protocol stack parameters managed by itself.

[0543] In one embodiment, the device further includes:

[0544] The protocol orchestration response message receiving module is used to receive the protocol orchestration response message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol orchestration response message carries multiple programmable user plane attributes and protocol stack configuration files.

[0545] The protocol stack configuration file sending module is used to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

[0546] In one embodiment, the device further includes:

[0547] The service request failure message receiving module is used to receive UE service request failure messages sent by the protocol orchestration generator. These messages are sent when the protocol orchestration generator does not have a protocol stack in its pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements; or...

[0548] The user plane path processing module is used to process the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on the programmable user plane.

[0549] In one embodiment, the user plane path processing module includes:

[0550] The service processing request sending unit is used to send a service processing request to the programmable user plane. The service processing request is used to request the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service to be processed by the programmable user plane.

[0551] The service processing response message sending unit is used to send a service processing response message to the UE based on the service response sent by the programmable user plane after completing user plane resource processing. The service processing response message is used to indicate that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0552] In one embodiment, the service processing request sending unit is further configured to receive protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator; and send a service processing request to the programmable user plane according to the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane.

[0553] In one embodiment, this application also provides a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0554] The configuration file receiving module is used to receive the protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator by the SMF when it receives the UE service request, based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request.

[0555] The second protocol stack configuration module is used to configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

[0556] In one embodiment, the configuration file receiving module is further configured to receive a protocol stack configuration file sent by the SMF; or, to receive a protocol stack configuration file sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

[0557] In one embodiment, the device further includes:

[0558] The business processing request receiving module is used to receive business processing requests sent by SMF;

[0559] The user plane resource processing module is used to process user plane resources corresponding to UE services according to service processing requests.

[0560] The service processing response sending module is used to send a service processing response to the SMF after completing user plane resource processing, instructing the SMF to send a service response message to the UE. The service response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0561] In one embodiment, this application also provides a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0562] The service request sending module is used to send a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0563] In one embodiment, the service request sending module includes:

[0564] The first service request sending unit is used to send a service request to the radio access network. The service request is used to request the radio access network to send the service request to the SMF.

[0565] In one embodiment, the device further includes:

[0566] The service processing response message receiving module is used to receive the service processing response message sent by SMF. The service processing response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0567] In one embodiment, this application provides a protocol stack configuration apparatus, the apparatus comprising:

[0568] The service request receiving module is used to receive service requests sent by the UE, including protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request.

[0569] The service request sending module is used to send service requests to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0570] In one embodiment, the service request sending module includes:

[0571] The session function selection unit is used to select the target SMF that matches the UE's service based on the protocol stack indication parameters;

[0572] The second service request sending unit is used to send service requests to the target SMF.

[0573] It should be noted that the implementation principles, processes, and technical effects of the various protocol stack configuration devices provided in this application are similar to those of the aforementioned protocol stack configuration method. Therefore, the parts that are the same as those in the protocol stack configuration device embodiments and the beneficial effects of the protocol stack configuration method embodiments will not be described in detail here.

[0574] It should be noted that the division of modules, units, and sub-units in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated units described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional units.

[0575] If the aforementioned integrated units are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a processor-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application.

[0576] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this application embodiment can implement all the method steps implemented in the above method embodiment and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0577] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a protocol stack configuration device provided in an embodiment of this application. The protocol stack configuration device may include a processor 1000, a transceiver 1010, and a memory 1020. The transceiver 1010 is used to receive and transmit data under the control of the processor 1000.

[0578] Among them, Figure 10 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 1000 and memory represented by memory 1020 together. The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides the interface.

[0579] The transceiver 1010 may consist of multiple components, including a transmitter and a receiver, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, etc. The processor 1000 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 1020 can store data used by the processor 1000 during operation.

[0580] The processor 1000 can be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The processor 1000 can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0581] In the case where the protocol stack configuration device includes a protocol orchestration generator, the processor 1000 calls the program stored in the memory 1020 to execute the following steps according to the obtained executable instructions:

[0582] The control transceiver 1010 receives the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0583] Configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request, based on the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

[0584] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0585] Based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane;

[0586] Configure the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane.

[0587] In one embodiment, the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes one or more of the following:

[0588] Protocol stack parameters required for UE service requests;

[0589] One or more programmable user plane attributes required for a UE service request;

[0590] Topological relationships between multiple programmable user planes;

[0591] Protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of UE services.

[0592] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0593] Arrange the protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request;

[0594] Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, create protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0595] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0596] Based on the protocol stacks required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, and the topology relationships between each programmable user plane, a protocol stack configuration file is created for each programmable user plane. Each programmable user plane corresponds to one or more protocol stack configuration files.

[0597] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0598] Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane, create a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0599] In one embodiment, creating the protocol stack update configuration file for each programmable user plane includes at least one of the following:

[0600] Create a new protocol stack configuration file for the newly added programmable user plane;

[0601] Update the protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane.

[0602] In one embodiment, the protocol stack release configuration file includes an empty file or a file without any protocol functionality.

[0603] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0604] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the pre-generated protocol stack, create the protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane.

[0605] In one embodiment, the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane includes a protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks that meets the UE service requirements, or a default protocol stack selected from pre-generated protocol stacks.

[0606] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0607] If the pre-generated protocol stack does not meet the UE service requirements, the control transceiver 1010 sends a UE service request failure message to the SMF.

[0608] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0609] The transceiver 1010 is controlled to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration files to each programmable user plane; and / or,

[0610] The control transceiver 1010 sends a protocol orchestration response message to the SMF. The protocol orchestration response message carries the attributes of each programmable user plane and the protocol stack configuration file. The protocol orchestration response message is used to instruct the SMF to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

[0611] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0612] The transceiver 1010 is controlled to send the protocol stack information and attributes of each programmable user plane configuration to the SMF.

[0613] When the protocol stack configuration device includes SMF, the processor 1000 executes the following steps according to the obtained executable instructions by calling the program stored in memory 1020:

[0614] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, the control transceiver 1010 sends a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0615] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0616] Based on the protocol stack indication parameters, obtain the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing;

[0617] Select the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0618] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0619] When the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the service type parameters are queried according to the preset mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters, and the queried protocol stack parameters are determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0620] If the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or if the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters shall be determined as the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing.

[0621] In one embodiment, the mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters is stored in the SMF or in a separate network function module.

[0622] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0623] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information, select the protocol orchestration generator; or,

[0624] Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the transceiver 1010 is controlled to send a query command to the network warehouse function element and receive the protocol orchestration generator sent by the network warehouse function element. The query command is used to instruct the network warehouse function element to select a protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol orchestration generator information and protocol stack parameters managed by itself.

[0625] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0626] The transceiver 1010 receives protocol orchestration response messages sent by the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol orchestration response messages carry multiple programmable user plane attributes and protocol stack configuration files.

[0627] Based on the attributes of each programmable user plane, the control transceiver 1010 sends the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane.

[0628] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0629] The transceiver 1010 receives a UE service request failure message sent by the protocol orchestration generator. This message is sent when the protocol orchestration generator does not have a protocol stack in its pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements; or...

[0630] Based on the programmable user plane, the user plane path for transmitting UE service data is processed.

[0631] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0632] The control transceiver 1010 sends a service processing request to the programmable user plane. The service processing request is used to request the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service to be processed by the programmable user plane.

[0633] Based on the service response sent by the programmable user plane after completing user plane resource processing, the transceiver 1010 sends a service processing response message to the UE. The service processing response message is used to indicate that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0634] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0635] The transceiver 1010 receives protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

[0636] Based on the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane, the control transceiver 1010 sends service processing requests to the programmable user plane.

[0637] When the protocol stack configuration device includes programmable user plane functionality, the processor 1000 executes the following steps according to the obtained executable instructions by calling the program stored in memory 1020:

[0638] Control transceiver 1010 to receive protocol stack configuration files; the protocol stack configuration files are created by the protocol orchestration generator by the SMF when it receives a UE service request, based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request;

[0639] Configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

[0640] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0641] Control transceiver 1010 to receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by SMF; or,

[0642] Control transceiver 1010 to receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

[0643] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0644] Control transceiver 1010 to receive service processing requests sent by SMF;

[0645] Process the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service according to the service processing request;

[0646] After completing user plane resource processing, the control transceiver 1010 sends a service processing response to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a service response message to the UE. The service response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0647] When the protocol stack configuration device includes wireless access network functionality, the processor 1000 calls the program stored in the memory 1020 to execute the following steps according to the obtained executable instructions:

[0648] Control transceiver 1010 to receive service requests sent by the UE; protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request;

[0649] The control transceiver 1010 sends a service request to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0650] In one embodiment, the processor 1000 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0651] Select the target SMF that matches the UE's services based on the parameters indicated by the protocol stack;

[0652] Control transceiver 1010 to send a service request to the target SMF.

[0653] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of a protocol stack configuration device provided in an embodiment of this application. The protocol stack configuration device may include a processor 1100, a transceiver 1110, and a memory 1120. The transceiver 1110 is used to receive and send data under the control of the processor 1100.

[0654] Among them, Figure 11 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors 1100 (represented by processor 1100) and memory 1120 (represented by memory 1120). The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides the interface.

[0655] The transceiver 1110 may consist of multiple components, including a transmitter and a receiver, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, and other transmission media. For different user equipment, the user interface may also be an interface capable of connecting external or internal devices, including but not limited to keypads, displays, speakers, microphones, joysticks, etc. The processor 1100 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 1120 can store data used by the processor 1100 during operation.

[0656] Optionally, the processor 1100 can be a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), and the processor 1100 can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0657] When the protocol stack is configured as a UE, the processor 1100 calls a program stored in memory to perform the following steps according to the obtained executable instructions:

[0658] The transceiver 1110 sends a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

[0659] In one embodiment, the processor 1100 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0660] The control transceiver 1110 sends a service request to the radio access network. The service request is used to request the radio access network to send the service request to the SMF.

[0661] In one embodiment, the processor 1100 is further configured to read a computer program from the memory and perform the following operations:

[0662] The control transceiver 1110 receives the service processing response message sent by the SMF. The service processing response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

[0663] In one embodiment, a processor-readable storage medium is also provided, which stores a program for causing the processor to execute the steps in any of the above-described embodiments of the protocol stack configuration method. The processor-readable storage medium can be any available medium or data storage device accessible to the processor, including but not limited to magnetic memory (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, magneto-optical disks (MO), etc.), optical memory (e.g., CDs, DVDs, BDs, HVDs, etc.), and semiconductor memory (e.g., ROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, non-volatile memory (NAND flash), solid-state drives (SSDs)).

[0664] In one embodiment, a computer program product is also provided, which, when executed by a processor, can implement any of the above-described protocol stack configuration methods. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, some or all of the above-described methods can be implemented, wholly or partially, according to the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application.

[0665] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of the chip according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 12 The chip 1200 shown includes a processor 1210, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0666] Optionally, such as Figure 12 As shown, chip 1200 may further include memory 1220. Processor 1210 can retrieve and run computer programs from memory 1220 to implement the methods described in this embodiment.

[0667] The memory 1220 can be a separate device independent of the processor 1210, or it can be integrated into the processor 1210.

[0668] Optionally, the chip 1200 may also include an input interface 1230. The processor 1210 can control the input interface 1230 to communicate with other devices or chips; specifically, it can acquire information or data sent by other devices or chips.

[0669] Optionally, the chip 1200 may also include an output interface 1240. The processor 1210 can control the output interface 1240 to communicate with other devices or chips, specifically, to output information or data to other devices or chips.

[0670] Optionally, the chip 1200 can be applied to the network element device in the embodiments of this application, and the chip 1200 can implement the corresponding processes implemented in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0671] It should be understood that the chip 1200 mentioned in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as a system-on-a-chip, system chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip, etc.

[0672] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage and optical storage) containing computer-usable program code.

[0673] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A protocol stack configuration method, characterized in that, Applied to a protocol orchestration generator, the method includes: The system receives a protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the Session Management Function (SMF); the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the User Equipment (UE) service request. Configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of configuring the programmable user plane protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes: Based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request, create protocol stack configuration files for each of the programmable user planes; Configure the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes one or more of the following: The protocol stack parameters required for the UE service request; One or more programmable user plane attributes required by the UE service request; Topological relationships between multiple programmable user planes; The protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane of the UE service.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of creating protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes: Arrange the protocol stack required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request; Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests, a protocol stack configuration file is created for each of the programmable user planes.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack creation configuration file, which, based on the orchestrated protocol stack required by the UE service request, creates protocol stack configuration files for each of the programmable user planes, including: Based on the protocol stacks required by the orchestrated UE service requests, the attributes of each programmable user plane, and the topology relationships between each programmable user plane, a protocol stack configuration file is created for each programmable user plane, wherein one programmable user plane corresponds to one or more protocol stack configuration files.

6. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The protocol stack configuration file includes a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file. The creation of protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service requests includes: Based on the protocol stack required by the orchestrated UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology between each programmable user plane, and the protocol stack information and attributes of the original programmable user plane, create a protocol stack update configuration file or a protocol stack release configuration file for each programmable user plane.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The creation of the protocol stack update configuration file for each of the programmable user planes includes at least one of the following: Create a new protocol stack configuration file for the newly added programmable user plane; Update the protocol stack configuration files for each of the programmable user planes.

8. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of creating protocol stack configuration files for each programmable user plane based on the content carried in the protocol stack orchestration configuration request includes: Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, the attributes of each programmable user plane, the topology relationship between each programmable user plane, and the pre-generated protocol stack, a protocol stack configuration file for each programmable user plane is created.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Each of the programmable user planes includes a protocol stack configuration file that meets the UE service requirements, selected from the pre-generated protocol stacks, or a default protocol stack selected from the pre-generated protocol stacks.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The method further includes: If the pre-generated protocol stack does not contain a protocol stack that meets the UE's service requirements, a UE service request failure message is sent to the SMF.

11. The method according to any one of claims 2-10, characterized in that, The step of configuring the protocol stack for each programmable user plane according to the protocol stack configuration file of each programmable user plane includes: The corresponding protocol stack configuration file is issued to each of the programmable user planes; and / or, A protocol orchestration response message is sent to the SMF, the protocol orchestration response message carrying the attributes and protocol stack configuration files of each programmable user plane; the protocol orchestration response message is used to instruct the SMF to send the corresponding protocol stack configuration files to each programmable user plane according to the attributes of each programmable user plane.

12. A protocol stack configuration method, characterized in that, Applied to SMF, the method includes: Based on the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request, a protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, Before sending the protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator, the method further includes: Based on the protocol stack indication parameters, obtain the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing; The protocol orchestration generator is selected based on the protocol stack parameters required for the UE service processing.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the protocol stack parameters required for UE service processing based on the protocol stack indication parameters includes: When the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the service type parameters are queried according to the preset mapping relationship between service type parameters and protocol stack parameters, and the queried protocol stack parameters are determined as the protocol stack parameters required for the UE service processing. If the protocol stack indication parameters include service type parameters and protocol stack capability parameters, or if the protocol stack indication parameters include protocol stack capability parameters, the protocol stack parameters corresponding to the protocol stack capability parameters shall be determined as the protocol stack parameters required for the UE service processing.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that, The step of selecting the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request includes: Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request and the locally pre-configured protocol orchestration generator information, the protocol orchestration generator is selected; or, Based on the protocol stack parameters required by the UE service request, a query command is sent to the network repository function element, and a protocol orchestration generator is received from the network repository function element; the query command is used to instruct the network repository function element to select the protocol orchestration generator based on the protocol orchestration generator information managed by itself and the protocol stack parameters.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12-14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a protocol orchestration response message sent by the protocol orchestration generator, wherein the protocol orchestration response message carries multiple programmable user plane attributes and protocol stack configuration files; Based on the attributes of each programmable user plane, send the corresponding protocol stack configuration file to each programmable user plane.

17. The method according to any one of claims 12-14, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system receives a UE service request failure message sent by the protocol orchestration generator, wherein the UE service request failure message is sent by the protocol orchestration generator when there is no protocol stack in the pre-generated protocol stack that meets the UE service requirements; or, Based on the programmable user plane, the user plane path for transmitting UE service data is processed.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The processing of the user plane path for transmitting UE service data based on the programmable user plane includes: Send a service processing request to the programmable user plane, the service processing request being used to request the programmable user plane to process the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service; Based on the service response sent by the programmable user plane after completing the user plane resource processing, a service processing response message is sent to the UE. The service processing response message is used to indicate that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, Sending the service processing request to the programmable user plane includes: Receive the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane sent by the protocol orchestration generator; The service processing request is sent to the programmable user plane based on the protocol stack information and attributes configured for the programmable user plane.

20. A protocol stack configuration method, characterized in that, Applied to a programmable user plane, the method includes: Receive protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator under the instruction of the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request when the SMF receives the UE service request; Configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The receiving protocol stack configuration file includes: Receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by the SMF; or, Receive the protocol stack configuration file sent by the protocol orchestration generator.

22. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the service processing request sent by the SMF; Based on the service processing request, process the user plane resources corresponding to the UE service; Upon completion of user plane resource processing, a service processing response is sent to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a service response message to the UE. The service response message indicates that the user plane path for transmitting UE service data has been successfully processed.

23. A protocol stack configuration method, characterized in that, Applied to a UE, the method includes: A service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters is sent to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

24. A protocol stack configuration method, characterized in that, Applied to wireless access networks, the method includes: Receive service requests sent by the UE; the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service requests; Send the service request to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, Sending the service request to the SMF includes: Based on the protocol stack indication parameters, select the target SMF that matches the UE's service; Send the service request to the target SMF.

26. A protocol stack configuration device, characterized in that, The device includes: The configuration request receiving module is used to receive the protocol stack orchestration configuration request sent by the SMF; the protocol stack orchestration configuration request is sent by the SMF according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request; The first protocol stack configuration module is used to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane required by the UE service request according to the protocol stack orchestration configuration request.

27. A protocol stack configuration device, characterized in that, The device includes: The configuration request sending module is used to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to instruct the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

28. A protocol stack configuration device, characterized in that, The device includes: The configuration file receiving module is used to receive the protocol stack configuration file; the protocol stack configuration file is created by the protocol orchestration generator under the instruction of the SMF when it receives the UE service request, according to the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the UE service request; The second protocol stack configuration module is used to configure the protocol stack according to the protocol stack configuration file.

29. A protocol stack configuration device, characterized in that, The device includes: The service request sending module is used to send a service request carrying protocol stack indication parameters to the SMF. The service request is used to instruct the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator. The protocol stack orchestration configuration request is used to request the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

30. A protocol stack configuration device, characterized in that, The device includes: A service request receiving module is used to receive service requests sent by the UE; the protocol stack indication parameters carried in the service request; The service request sending module is used to send the service request to the SMF, instructing the SMF to send a protocol stack orchestration configuration request to the protocol orchestration generator to configure the protocol stack for the programmable user plane.

31. A protocol stack configuration device, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor; Memory, used to store computer programs; A transceiver for transmitting and receiving data under the control of the processor; a processor for reading a computer program from the memory and executing the operational steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

32. A processor-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The processor-readable storage medium stores a program for causing the processor to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

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