Communication method and device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and device, and relates to the technical field of communication. The method comprises: determining that an access network device corresponding to a first session enters or leaves a first area, the first session being used for bearing a first multicast / broadcast service, the first area being a service area of the first multicast / broadcast service; and sending first information to a second network element, wherein the first information is used for updating the first session. As the access network devices enter or leave the service area of the multicast / broadcast service, the first network element can instruct the second network element to update the sessions corresponding to the access network devices, thereby ensuring the smooth proceeding of the multicast / broadcast service in the service area, and improving the service continuity in the NTN scene.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] In non-terrestrial network (NTN) scenarios, aircraft (e.g., airplanes or drones) or satellites are incorporated into the communication system. Network equipment deployed on satellites can transmit signals to terminal devices. Due to the vast distance between the satellite and the terminal device, the coverage area of ​​the signals transmitted by the network equipment in the NTN communication system is much larger than that of current terrestrial networks. However, as satellites move continuously, their coverage area also changes, requiring the satellites used to serve the terminal devices to also constantly change.

[0003] Therefore, how to improve business continuity in NTN scenarios is an urgent problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus that can improve service continuity in NTN scenarios.

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided. The implementing entity of the method provided in the first aspect can be a first network element. Unless otherwise specified, the first network element in this application can refer to the first network element itself (e.g., a session management network element, or an access and mobility management network element), a component within the first network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logical module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. For ease of description, the following description uses a first network element as an example.

[0006] The method includes: determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area, the first session being used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service, and the first area being the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service; and sending first information to a second network element, the first information being used to update the first session.

[0007] The phrase "access network device entering the first area" can include: the access network device is about to enter the first area, and / or the access network device has just entered the first area. "Access network device entering the first area" can also be understood as the access network device is currently entering the first area. "Access network device is about to enter the first area" can include the access network device not currently entering the first area. "Access network device has just entered the first area" can include the access network device already entering the first area.

[0008] In one example, if an access network device goes from having no coverage of the first area to partially covering the first area, it can be considered that the access network device has "entered" the first area. In another example, if an access network device completely covers the first area, it can be considered that the access network device has "entered" the first area.

[0009] The access network device is about to enter the first area, which can be understood as the access network device not currently covering (or partially covering) the first area. However, within a first preset time period, the access network device will partially or completely cover the first area, that is, the coverage area of ​​the access network device will partially or completely overlap with the first area within the first preset time period.

[0010] When an access network device enters the first area, it can be understood that the access network device currently partially or fully covers the first area, but the difference between the current time and the time when the access network device does not cover (or does not partially cover) the first area is less than or equal to the second preset duration. In other words, the access network device has now entered the first area, but the duration of its entry into the first area is less than or equal to the second preset duration.

[0011] The phrase "access network device leaving the first area" can include: the access network device is about to leave the first area, and / or the access network device has just left the first area. "Access network device leaving the first area" can also be understood as the access network device is currently leaving the first area. "Access network device is about to leave the first area" can include the access network device not currently leaving the first area. "Access network device has just left the first area" can include the access network device having already left the first area.

[0012] In one example, if an access network device goes from fully covering the first area to partially covering the first area, it can be considered that the access network device has "left" the first area. In another example, if an access network device does not cover the first area at all, it can be considered that the access network device has "left" the first area.

[0013] The access network device is about to leave the first area. This can be understood as the access network device currently partially or completely covering the first area. However, within the third preset time period, the access network device will completely or partially cover the first area.

[0014] When an access network device has just left the first area, it can be understood that the access network device currently does not cover the first area at all or only partially covers it, but the difference between the current moment and the moment when the access network device partially or completely revisits the first area is less than or equal to the fourth preset duration. In other words, the access network device has now left the first area, but the duration of its departure from the first area is less than or equal to the fourth preset duration.

[0015] Based on the above scheme, as access network devices enter or leave the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services, the first network element can instruct the second network element to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of multicast / broadcast services in the service area and improving the service continuity of multicast / broadcast services in NTN scenarios.

[0016] In some implementations, the access network device corresponding to the first session includes a first access network device, wherein determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area includes: determining whether the first access network device enters or leaves the first area based on second information, wherein the second information is used to indicate the time period during which the first access network device covers the first area, or to indicate the time period during which the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area.

[0017] Based on the above scheme, the first network element can determine whether any access network devices have entered or left the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services according to the second information, thereby instructing the second network element to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices.

[0018] In some implementations, the second information includes ephemeris information. This ephemeris information can be used to determine / indicate the time period during which the access network device covers the first area.

[0019] Based on the above scheme, the first network element can determine whether any access network devices have entered or left the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services according to ephemeris information, thereby instructing the second network element to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices.

[0020] In some implementations, the first network element can determine whether any access network devices have entered or left the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services based on the second information, thereby triggering the updating of the sessions corresponding to these access network devices.

[0021] In some implementations, the method further includes receiving the second information from the access and mobility management network element or the operation and maintenance management network element.

[0022] In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving third information from the second network element, the third information being used to indicate whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area; wherein determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area includes: determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area based on the third information, or determining whether the access network device enters the first area corresponding to the first session based on the third information, or determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session leaves the first area corresponding to the first session based on the third information.

[0023] Based on the above scheme, the second network element can send third information to the first network element, thereby triggering the first network element to determine to update the first session.

[0024] In some implementations, the third information includes a first identifier, and the first session is the session corresponding to the first identifier.

[0025] In some implementations, the third information includes first indication information, which is used to indicate to the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier to enter or leave the first area, or the first indication information is used to indicate to the access network device to enter the first area corresponding to the first session, or the first indication information is used to indicate to the access network device corresponding to the first session to leave the first area corresponding to the first session.

[0026] In some implementations, the access network device corresponding to the first session includes the first access network device and / or the second access network device, wherein the second access network device is different from the first access network device.

[0027] In some implementations, the first network element is a session management network element and the second network element is an access and mobility management network element; or, the first network element is an access and mobility management network element and the second network element is a first access network device.

[0028] Based on the above scheme, the first access network device can determine whether it or other access network devices have entered or left the first area. The access and mobility management network element can monitor whether one or more access network devices have entered or left the first area.

[0029] In some implementations, the first network element is a session management network element, the second network element is an access and mobility management network element, and the first information includes fourth information, which is used to indicate the first area.

[0030] Based on the above scheme, when the session management network element initiates a session update procedure to the access and mobility management network element, it can send information indicating the first area to the access and mobility management network element. In this way, the access and mobility management network element can check the access network devices in the first area, thereby updating the context of the first session of the access network devices entering or leaving the first area. Combined with the aforementioned scheme, the access network device corresponding to the first session can enter or leave the first area. Therefore, the access and mobility management network element can perform multiple checks on the access network devices in the first area based on multiple instructions from the session management network element.

[0031] In some implementations, the method further includes sending fifth information to the second network element, the fifth information being used to update the first session, the fifth information including the fourth information.

[0032] In some implementations, the first information includes second indication information, which is used to indicate that the first session should be updated according to the fourth information.

[0033] Based on the above scheme, when the session management network element initiates a session update procedure to the access and mobility management network element, it can send information indicating the first area and information indicating the update to the access and mobility management network element. In this way, the access and mobility management network element can check the access network devices in the first area according to the information indicating the update, thereby updating the context of the first session of the access network devices entering or leaving the first area.

[0034] Secondly, a communication method is provided. The implementing entity of the method provided in this application can be a second network element. Unless otherwise specified, the second network element in this application can refer to the second network element itself (e.g., an access and mobility management network element, or a first access network device), a component within the second network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. For ease of description, the following description uses a second network element as an example.

[0035] The method includes: receiving first information from a first network element, the first information being used to update a first session, the first session being used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service, the access network device corresponding to the first session entering or leaving a first area, the first area being the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service; and updating the first session according to the first information.

[0036] In some implementations, the method further includes: sending second information to the first network element, the second information being used to indicate the time period during which the first access network device covers the first area, or to indicate the time period during which the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area.

[0037] In some implementations, the second information includes ephemeris information. This ephemeris information can be used to determine / indicate the time period during which the access network device covers the first area.

[0038] In some implementations, the first network element is a session management network element, and the second network element is an access and mobility management network element.

[0039] In some implementations, the method further includes sending third information to the first network element, the third information being used to instruct the access network device corresponding to the first session to enter or leave the first area.

[0040] In some implementations, the third information includes a first identifier, and the first session is the session corresponding to the first identifier.

[0041] In some implementations, the third information includes first indication information, which is used to indicate to the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier to enter or leave the first area, or the first indication information is used to indicate to the access network device to enter the first area corresponding to the first session, or the first indication information is used to indicate to the access network device corresponding to the first session to leave the first area corresponding to the first session.

[0042] In some implementations, the access network device corresponding to the first session includes the first access network device and / or the second access network device, wherein the second access network device is different from the first access network device.

[0043] In some implementations, the first network element is a session management network element and the second network element is an access and mobility management network element; or, the first network element is an access and mobility management network element and the second network element is a first access network device.

[0044] In some implementations, the first network element is a session management network element, the second network element is an access and mobility management network element, and the first information includes fourth information used to indicate the first area; wherein, updating the first session according to the first information includes: updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area according to the fourth information.

[0045] In some implementations, before receiving the first information from the first network element, the method further includes: receiving fifth information from the session management network element, the fifth information being used to update the first session, the fifth information including the fourth information; and updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area according to the fifth information.

[0046] In some implementations, the first information includes second indication information, which is used to indicate updating the first session according to the fourth information; wherein updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area according to the fourth information includes: updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area according to the second indication information and the fourth information.

[0047] For the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the second aspect, please refer to the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the first aspect.

[0048] Thirdly, a communication method is provided. The implementing entity of the method provided in this application can be an access and mobility management network element. Unless otherwise specified, the access and mobility management network element in this application can refer to the access and mobility management network element itself, or to components within the access and mobility management network element (e.g., processors, chips, or chip systems), or it can be a logical module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access and mobility management network element. For ease of description, the following description uses an access and mobility management network element as an example.

[0049] The method includes: sending a sixth message to the third access network device and / or session management network element, the sixth message indicating the first time period, the first time period being the time period during which the third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0050] Based on the above scheme, the access and mobility management network element can send information indicating a time period to the access network device and / or session management network element. This time period can be the period during which the access network device provides multicast / broadcast services. In this way, the access network device and / or session management network element can activate or release the context of the multicast / broadcast service according to the time period information. This scheme enables the timely activation of the multicast / broadcast service context, improving service continuity in NTN scenarios. Furthermore, it enables the timely release of the multicast / broadcast service context, reducing the storage overhead of the access network device, session management network element, or user plane network element. Moreover, this scheme allows the access network device, session management network element, or user plane network element to activate or release the multicast / broadcast service context according to the time period information, thereby reducing the signaling overhead of the access and mobility management network element in updating multicast / broadcast services.

[0051] In some implementations, the method also includes: determining a first time period.

[0052] In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving seventh information from a session management network element, the seventh information indicating a second time period, the second time period indicating the duration of the second multicast / broadcast service; wherein determining the first time period includes: determining the first time period based on the seventh information.

[0053] Based on the above scheme, the session management network element can inform the access and mobility management network element of the duration of the multicast / broadcast service through the seventh information. In this way, the access and mobility management network element can determine the time period during which one or more access network devices cover the service area of ​​the multicast / broadcast service based on its duration.

[0054] In some implementations, the first time period is determined based on the seventh piece of information, including: determining the first time period based on ephemeris information and the seventh piece of information.

[0055] In some implementations, the seventh information is carried in a first message, which is used to establish or update the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0056] In some implementations, the sixth information is carried in the second message, which is used to request the establishment of a tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the user plane network element and the third access network device.

[0057] In some implementations, the third access network device does not cover the second area.

[0058] Based on the above scheme, the access and mobility management network element can request the third access network device to establish a context for the second multicast / broadcast service even when the third access network device does not cover the second area. In other words, the access and mobility management network element can pre-establish the context of at least one access network device that will be able to provide multicast / broadcast services in the future. This scheme avoids the need for the third access network device to temporarily establish a multicast / broadcast service context when entering the second area, thereby further improving service continuity in NTN scenarios.

[0059] In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving eighth information from the third access network device, the eighth information indicating that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service; and sending ninth information to the session management network element, the ninth information indicating that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0060] Based on the above scheme, the session management network element can release its own context and the context of the second multicast / broadcast service after the third access network device releases the context of the second multicast / broadcast service, thereby saving the storage overhead of the session management network element.

[0061] Fourthly, a communication method is provided. The execution entity of the method provided in this application can be a session management network element. Unless otherwise specified, the session management network element in this application can refer to the session management network element itself, a component within the session management network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the session management network element. For ease of description, the following description uses a session management network element as an example.

[0062] The method includes: receiving sixth information from an access and mobility management network element, the sixth information indicating a first time period, the first time period being a time period during which a third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; and sending tenth information to a user plane network element, the tenth information indicating the first time period.

[0063] In some implementations, the tenth information carries a third message, which is used to establish a tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the user plane network element and the third access network device.

[0064] In some implementations, the method further includes sending a seventh message to the access and mobility management network element, the seventh message indicating a second time period, the second time period indicating the duration of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0065] In some implementations, the seventh information is carried in the first message, which is used to establish the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0066] In some implementations, the sixth information is carried in the second message, which is used to request the establishment of a tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the user plane network element and the third access network device.

[0067] In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving ninth information from the access and mobility management network element, the ninth information indicating that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service; and releasing the context associated with the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service based on the ninth information.

[0068] For the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the fourth aspect, please refer to the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the third aspect.

[0069] Fifthly, a communication method is provided. The execution entity of the method provided in this application can be a user plane network element. Unless otherwise specified, the user plane network element in this application can refer to the user plane network element itself, or a component within the user plane network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the user plane network element's functions. For ease of description, the following description uses a user plane network element as an example.

[0070] The method includes: receiving tenth information from a session management network element, the tenth information indicating a first time period, the first time period being a time period during which a third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, the second area being a service area for the second multicast / broadcast service; and activating or releasing a context related to the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service based on the tenth information.

[0071] In some implementations, the tenth information carries a third message, which is used to establish a tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the user plane network element and the third access network device.

[0072] For the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the fifth aspect, please refer to the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the third or fourth aspect.

[0073] Sixthly, a communication method is provided. The method provided in this application can be implemented by a third access network device. Unless otherwise specified, the third access network device in this application can refer to the third access network device itself, a component within the third access network device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the third access network device. For ease of description, the following description uses a third access network device as an example.

[0074] The method includes: receiving sixth information from an access and mobility management network element, the sixth information indicating a first time period, the first time period being a time period during which the third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; and activating or releasing the context of the second multicast / broadcast service according to the sixth information.

[0075] In some implementations, the method further includes sending an eighth message to the access and mobility management network element, the eighth message indicating that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0076] For the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the sixth aspect, please refer to the beneficial effects of some implementation methods in the third to fifth aspects.

[0077] A seventh aspect provides a communication device including processing circuitry (or a processor) and an input / output interface (also referred to as an interface circuit), the input / output interface being used for inputting and / or outputting signals, the processing circuitry being used to perform the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect, or the processing circuitry being used to perform the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect. Alternatively, the processing circuitry being used to perform the third aspect and any possible method of the third aspect, or the processing circuitry being used to perform the fourth aspect and any possible method of the fourth aspect, or the processing circuitry being used to perform the fifth aspect and any possible method of the fifth aspect, or the processing circuitry being used to perform the sixth aspect and any possible method of the sixth aspect.

[0078] In some implementations, the processing circuit is used to communicate with other devices through the interface circuit and to perform the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect, or to perform the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect, or to perform the third aspect and any possible method of the third aspect, or to perform the fourth aspect and any possible method of the fourth aspect, or to perform the fifth aspect and any possible method of the fifth aspect, or to perform the sixth aspect and any possible method of the sixth aspect.

[0079] Eighthly, a communication device is provided. This communication device can implement the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof; or, the communication device can implement the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof; or, the communication device can implement the third aspect and any possible implementation thereof; or, the communication device can implement the fourth aspect and any possible implementation thereof; or, the communication device can implement the fifth aspect and any possible implementation thereof; or, the communication device can implement the sixth aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0080] In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for performing the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect. These modules, units, or means may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0081] In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for performing the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0082] In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for performing the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0083] In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for performing the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0084] In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for performing the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0085] In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for performing the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, which may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0086] A ninth aspect provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the third aspect and any possible method of the third aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the fourth aspect and any possible method of the fourth aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the fifth aspect and any possible method of the fifth aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the sixth aspect and any possible method of the sixth aspect to be performed (or implemented).

[0087] In a tenth aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed, cause the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the third aspect and any possible method of the third aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the fourth aspect and any possible method of the fourth aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the fifth aspect and any possible method of the fifth aspect to be performed (or implemented), or cause the sixth aspect and any possible method of the sixth aspect to be performed (or implemented).

[0088] Eleventhly, a communication device is provided, comprising a processor configured to execute (or implement) any of the possible methods of the first aspect, or any of the possible methods of the second aspect, or any of the possible methods of the third aspect, or any of the possible methods of the fourth aspect, or any of the possible methods of the fifth aspect, or any of the possible methods of the sixth aspect, by executing a computer program (or computer-executable instructions) stored in a memory, and / or by logic circuitry.

[0089] In one possible implementation, the device also includes a memory. In another possible implementation, the processor and memory are integrated together. In yet another possible implementation, the memory is located outside the communication device. The processor may include one or more processors.

[0090] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface for communicating with other devices, such as transmitting or receiving data and / or signals. Exemplarily, the communication interface may be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

[0091] In one implementation, the communication device of the seventh, eighth, or eleventh aspect mentioned above may be a chip or a chip system.

[0092] In a twelfth aspect, a chip is provided, including a processor for calling a computer program or computer instructions in a memory to cause the processor to execute any implementation of the first aspect, or to execute any implementation of the second aspect, or to execute any implementation of the third aspect, or to execute any implementation of the fourth aspect, or to execute any implementation of the fifth aspect, or to execute any implementation of the sixth aspect.

[0093] In some implementations, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0094] In a thirteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including a first network element and a second network element, wherein the first network element is used to perform the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof, and the second network element is used to perform the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0095] In a fourteenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including an access and mobility management network element, a session management network element, a user plane network element, and a third access network device. The access and mobility management network element is used to perform the third aspect and any possible implementation thereof, the session management network element is used to perform the fourth aspect and any possible implementation thereof, the user plane network element is used to perform the fifth aspect and any possible implementation thereof, and the third access network device is used to perform the sixth aspect and any possible implementation thereof.

[0096] The description of the beneficial effects of any of the second to fourteenth aspects can be referred to the description of the beneficial effects of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0097] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the network architecture of a communication system.

[0098] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating the network architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0099] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0100] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0101] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0102] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0103] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0104] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0105] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of this application.

[0106] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0107] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0108] This application will present various aspects, embodiments, or features relating to systems that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood and appreciated that various systems may include devices, components, modules, etc., other than those illustrated, and / or may not include all and all of the devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0109] In the embodiments of this application, words such as "exemplarily" and "for example" can be used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions to present concepts in a specific manner. Any embodiment or design scheme described as an "example" in this application should not be construed as being better or more advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. The business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will understand, with the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0110] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as used in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0111] The descriptions of "first," "second," etc., appearing in the embodiments of this application are for illustrative purposes and to distinguish the objects being described, unless otherwise specified. They are not in any particular order and do not indicate any special limitation on the number of objects in the embodiments of this application, nor do they constitute any limitation on the embodiments of this application.

[0112] In the various embodiments of this application, the sequence number of each process does not imply the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of this application.

[0113] The technical solutions of this application embodiment can be applied to various communication systems, including but not limited to: Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, and other fifth-generation (5G) systems. th Generation 5G mobile communication systems, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) systems, enhanced machine-type communication (eMTC) systems, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) systems, ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC) systems, satellite communication systems, LTE-machine-to-machine (LTE-M) systems, or systems such as 6G (5G) ... enhanced reliable low-latency communications (URLLC) systems, satellite communication systems, LTE-machine-to-machine (LTE-M) systems, or 6G (6G) mobile communication systems. th The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to NTN communication systems, device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine-type communication (MTC), and Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems or other communication systems. NTN systems can also be called satellite communication systems. Furthermore, non-terrestrial communication systems can also include high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication systems.

[0114] NTN systems can refer to communication networks that use airborne or space-based platforms as relay nodes or base stations for transmission equipment. Airborne or space-based platforms include, but are not limited to, drones, hot air balloons, airplanes, and satellites.

[0115] In the embodiments of this application, the term "communication" may also be described as "data transmission," "signal transmission," "information transmission," or "transmission," etc. In the embodiments of this application, transmission may include sending or receiving.

[0116] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture for a communication system. The network architecture includes at least one network function (NF). For example, at least one NF may include: a network capability opening network element, a network storage function network element, a network data analysis network element, an application function network element, a policy control network element, a unified data storage network element, a unified data management network element, an access and mobility management network element, a session management network element, a binding support function network element, a user plane function network element, and a data network (DN) connecting to the operator's network. Terminal devices can send service data to the data network and receive service data from the data network through access network devices and user plane function network elements. Access network devices can communicate with the network management system.

[0117] A terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities that can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on water (such as on ships); and it can be deployed in the air (e.g., on airplanes, balloons, and satellites). The terminal device can communicate with the core network via a radio access network (RAN) to exchange voice and / or data with the RAN. The terminal device can be a mobile phone, tablet, computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, mobile internet device (MID), wearable device, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal in industrial control, wireless terminal in self-driving, wireless terminal in remote medical care, wireless terminal in smart grid, wireless terminal in transportation safety, wireless terminal in smart city, and wireless terminal in smart home. Wireless terminals, drones, drone controllers, etc., in the home (e.g., mobile devices). The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenario. Terminal devices may sometimes be called user equipment (UE), mobile stations, and remote stations, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology, device form, or name used in the terminal devices.

[0118] Access network equipment (or network devices) can be devices in a network used to connect terminal devices to the wireless network. Access network equipment can be a node in the radio access network, also known as a base station, a radio access network (RAN) node (or device), or an access network (AN) node (or device). For ease of description, RAN will sometimes be used below to refer to access network equipment. Access network equipment may include evolved base stations (NodeBs, eNBs, or e-NodeBs) in long-term evolution (LTE) systems or evolved LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) systems, such as traditional macro base stations (eNBs) and micro base stations (eNBs) in heterogeneous network scenarios. It may also include next-generation node Bs (gNBs) in 5G or NR systems, radio network controllers (RNCs), node Bs (NBs), base station controllers (BSCs), base transceiver stations (BTSs), transmission reception points (TRPs), home base stations (e.g., home-evolved NodeBs or home Node Bs (HNBs), base band units (BBUs), base band pools, or wireless fidelity (WiFi) access points (APs), and may also include cloud radio access networks. The centralized unit (CU) and distributed unit (DU) in the CloudRAN network system are not limited in the embodiments of this application.In scenarios where access network equipment includes separate deployments of CU and DU, CU supports protocols such as radio resource control (RRC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), and service data adaptation protocol (SDAP); DU mainly supports radio link control (RLC), media access control (MAC), and physical layer protocols.

[0119] Network capability open elements can expose some network functions to applications in a controlled manner. In 5G communication systems, network capability open elements can be network exposure functions (NEF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), network capability open elements can still be NEF elements, or they can have other names. This application is not limited to these.

[0120] Network storage function (NRF) network elements are primarily used for registration, discovery, and status detection of network elements, the services they provide, and their functions. NRF network elements enable automated management, selection, and expansion of network function services, and allow each network function to discover services provided by other network functions. In 5G communication systems, NRF network elements can be network repository functions (NRFs). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), NRF network elements may still be NRF network elements, or they may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0121] Network data analytics elements can collect, analyze, and predict data from various network functions (NFs), application function network elements (via network capability open function network elements), terminal devices, network management systems, etc. These elements possess data collection, training, analysis, and inference capabilities. After training based on relevant data, the network data analytics element can provide data analysis results to network functions, application function network elements, terminal devices, or network management systems. These results can assist the network in selecting service quality parameters for services, performing traffic routing, or selecting background data transmission strategies. Network functions include, for example, policy control network elements, session management network elements, user plane function network elements, and access and mobility management network elements. In 5G communication systems, the network data analytics element can be a network data analytics function (NWDAF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network data analytics element may still be an NWDAF element, or it may have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0122] Application function network elements can be used to convey application-side requests to the network side. For example, requests may include Quality of Service (QoS) requirements or user state event subscriptions. Application function network elements can provide various application service data to the control plane network elements of the operator's communication network, or obtain network data and control information from the control plane network elements. In 5G communication systems, application function network elements can be application functions (AFs). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), application function network elements may still be AF network elements, or they may have other names; this application is not limited to any particular name. For example, application function network elements can also be called application servers or service servers. Furthermore, application function network elements can be deployed on the operator's network or deployed by a third party.

[0123] Policy control network elements can be used to formulate and manage policies for the entire network (e.g., a 5G network). Policy control network elements can include policy control functions, charging policy control functions, etc. They can generate and maintain QoS flow control policies, network slicing policies, mobility management policies, charging policies, UE access policies, etc. Policy control network elements can dynamically generate and adjust policies based on the operator's service needs and network status, and distribute these policies to relevant network elements such as access and mobility management network elements, session management network elements, and user plane function network elements to guide their behavior. Furthermore, policy control network elements can receive QoS requirements from application function network elements and translate them into corresponding policies. In 5G communication systems, the policy control network element can be a policy control function (PCF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the policy control network element can still be a PCF network element, or it can have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0124] A unified data storage network element is primarily used to store structured data information, including subscription information, policy information, and network data or service data with standardized formats. In 5G communication systems, the unified data storage network element can be a unified data repository (UDR). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the unified data storage network element may still be a UDR network element, or it may have other names; this application is not limiting.

[0125] A unified data management network element is primarily used to manage and store user data (or subscription information) from terminal devices. This includes, for example, user identity information, authentication information, subscription information, and policy information. The unified data management network element can provide user data query and update services to other network elements. It can support user authentication, authorization, and key management functions. Furthermore, the unified data management network element can update and synchronize user data according to the policies of policy control network elements. In 5G communication systems, the unified data management network element can be a unified data management (UDM) element. In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the unified data management network element can remain a UDM element or have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0126] Access and mobility management (AML) network elements are primarily used for terminal attachment and tracking area update procedures in mobile networks. AML network elements can provide non-access stratum (NAS) messages, complete registration management, connection management, reachability management, allocate tracking area lists (TA lists), grant access authorization, authenticate, and manage mobility, and transparently route session management (SM) messages to session management network elements. In 5G communication systems, AML network elements can be access and mobility management functions (AMF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), AML network elements can remain AMF network elements or have other names; this application is not limited to these names.

[0127] Session management network elements can be used for session and bearer management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release. Specific functions include allocating and managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses for the UE and selecting user plane function network elements that provide packet forwarding capabilities. For example, the session management network element can select a suitable user plane function network element for the UE based on the UE's request and the policy control information of the policy control network element, establish a session with that user plane function network element, and generate QoS rules and charging rules. The session management network element can control the data forwarding and processing behavior of the user plane function network element. In 5G communication systems, the session management network element can be a session management function (SMF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the session management network element can still be an SMF network element, or it can have other names; this application is not limited to these.

[0128] The authentication function network element is mainly used to provide authentication services. In 5G communication systems, the authentication function network element can be an authentication server function (AUSF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the authentication function network element can still be an AUSF network element, or it can have other names. This application does not limit this.

[0129] User plane function network elements (MPFs) can be used to process user packets, such as forwarding and billing. Furthermore, MPFs can handle user plane data packet routing, forwarding, QoS flow processing, threshold control, traffic monitoring, authentication, data packet detection, and reporting. MPFs can also manage UE IP addresses and core network (CN) tunnel information. Located in the 5G core network user plane, MPFs provide high-speed, efficient, and flexible data transmission services to the UE. In addition, MPFs can perform data packet filtering, traffic shaping, and billing according to control plane instructions, enabling fine-grained management and control of user data flows. MPFs can connect to access network equipment via the N3 interface and to the data network via the N6 interface, thus enabling data transmission between the UE and the external data network. MPFs can also be referred to as Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session anchors (PSAs). In 5G communication systems, user plane function network elements can be user plane functions (UPF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), user plane function network elements can still be UPF network elements, or they can have other names. This application does not limit this.

[0130] Network management (NM) is primarily used for daily network and service analysis, forecasting, planning, and configuration, as well as network and service testing and fault management. OAM can interact with RAN to obtain information such as radio channel conditions and radio resource utilization. In 5G communication systems, NM can be Operations Administration and Management (OAM). In future communication systems (such as 6G), NM may still be an OAM element, or it may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0131] Data networks are primarily used to provide data transmission services for terminal devices. Data networks can be private networks, such as local area networks (LANs), public data networks (PDNs), such as the Internet, or dedicated networks jointly deployed by operators, such as configured IP multimedia corenetwork subsystems (IMS) services. Data networks can also originate from third parties.

[0132] exist Figure 1 In the architecture shown, the interface names and functions between some network elements are as follows:

[0133] N2: The interface between AMF and (R)AN, which can be used to transmit radio bearer control information from the core network side to the RAN.

[0134] N3: The interface between RAN and UPF, used to transmit uplink or downlink user plane data between RAN and UPF.

[0135] N4: The interface between SMF and UPF, which can be used to transmit information between the control plane and the user plane, including the distribution of forwarding rules, QoS control rules, traffic statistics rules, etc. from the control plane to the user plane, as well as the reporting of information from the user plane.

[0136] The aforementioned network element or function can be a network component in a hardware device, a software function running on dedicated hardware, or a virtualization function instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). Optionally, the aforementioned network element or function can be implemented by one device, multiple devices working together, or a functional module within a single device; this application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0137] The naming conventions described above are defined solely for the purpose of distinguishing different functions and should not be construed as limiting this application. This application does not preclude the possibility of using other naming conventions in 5G networks and other future networks. For example, in 6G networks, some or all of the aforementioned network terminology may be retained from 5G, or other names may be used. Figure 1 The interface names between the various network elements are merely examples; in actual implementations, the interface names may differ, and this application does not impose any specific limitations on them. Furthermore, the names of the messages (or signaling) transmitted between the aforementioned network elements are also merely examples and do not constitute any limitation on the function of the messages themselves.

[0138] The term "network element" can also be referred to as an entity, device, apparatus, or module, etc., and this application does not specifically limit it. Furthermore, in this application, for ease of understanding and explanation, the description of "network element" is omitted in some descriptions. For example, the PCF network element is abbreviated as PCF. In this case, "PCF" should be understood as PCF network element or PCF entity. The following omits descriptions of the same or similar cases.

[0139] Figure 2This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a network architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this application. The network architecture includes at least one NF. Exemplarily, at least one NF may include: AF, NEF, multicast-broadcast service function (MBSF), multicast-broadcast service transport function (MBSTF), multicast-broadcast SMF (MB-SMF), and multicast-broadcast UPF (MB-UPF). The network architecture may also include at least one access network device, such as RAN#1 and / or RAN#2. The network structure may also include MBS users (clients). Exemplarily, an MBS user may be a terminal device.

[0140] It is understandable that the term "and / or" in this article is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this article generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship.

[0141] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a communication method 300 provided in an embodiment of this application. Method 300 can improve service continuity in NTN scenarios. Optional operations in method 300 include... Figure 3 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 3 Method 300 is introduced.

[0142] S330, the first network element determines whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area.

[0143] Unless otherwise specified, the term "first network element" in this application can refer to the first network element itself (e.g., a session management network element or an access and mobility management network element), a component within the first network element (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logical module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the first network element as an example. The session management network element can be an SMF or a multicast broadcast SMF (MB-SMF). The access and mobility management network element can be an AMF. The following description uses an MB-SMF as the session management network element and an AMF as the access and mobility management network element as an example.

[0144] This first session can be used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service. The first multicast / broadcast service can include a first multicast service, a first broadcast service, or a first multicast broadcast service. For example, the first session can be used to carry a multicast service. As another example, the first session can be used to carry a broadcast service. Yet another example, the first session can be used to carry a multicast broadcast service (MBS).

[0145] This application does not limit the specific name of the first multicast / broadcast service, which may also be referred to as a service, multicast service, broadcast service, multicast broadcast service, MBS service, or other names.

[0146] The first session can be a multicast / broadcast session. This application does not limit the specific name of the first session, which may also be called a session, multicast session, broadcast session, multicast-broadcast session, or have other names.

[0147] The first area can be the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service. For example, the first area can be the MBS service area. The first area can be one or more cells, geographic areas, tracking areas (TAs), or other areas, and this application is not limited in this regard. Accordingly, the information of the first area can be cell information, geographic area information, TA information, or other information, and this application is not limited in this regard.

[0148] In this context, the access network device corresponding to the first session can be understood as an access network device capable of providing services through the first session. In other words, this access network device is currently providing services using the first session, or will use the first session to provide services in the future; that is, this access network device will cover part or all of the first area in the future. For example, the first session could currently be a session between access network device #1 and the UPF. In this case, access network device #1 is the access network device corresponding to the first session. As another example, although access network device #2 has not currently established a first session with the UPF, access network device #2 will establish a first session with the UPF in the future. In this case, access network device #2 is the access network device corresponding to the first session.

[0149] The access network device corresponding to the first session can also be understood as the access network device used to provide the first multicast / broadcast service according to the first session within the first area. In other words, this access network device is currently providing the first multicast / broadcast service according to the first session within the first area, or will provide the first multicast / broadcast service according to the first session within the first area in the future. For example, access network device #1 is currently within the first area and can provide the first multicast / broadcast service according to the first session. Therefore, access network device #1 is the access network device corresponding to the first session. As another example, although access network device #2 is not currently within the first area, access network device #2 will enter the first area in the future and will provide the first multicast / broadcast service according to the first session. Therefore, access network device #2 is the access network device corresponding to the first session.

[0150] Some or all of the access network devices corresponding to the first session may be deployed on a satellite. One or more access network devices may be deployed on a single satellite. For example, the access network devices corresponding to the first session may include a first access network device, which may be deployed on a first satellite. The access network devices corresponding to the first session may include a second access network device, which may be deployed on a second satellite. The access network devices being in a first area can be understood as the satellites deployed by the access network devices being in a first area. The access network devices entering or leaving the first area can be understood as the satellites deployed by the access network devices entering or leaving the first area.

[0151] When we say an access network device covers a first area, it can be understood that the access network device partially and / or completely covers the first area. Partial coverage of the first area means that the access network device's coverage area overlaps with the first area. Complete coverage of the first area means that the access network device's coverage area includes the first area. Therefore, the duration of the access network device's coverage within the first area can be the duration of partial coverage, the duration of complete coverage, or the duration of both partial and complete coverage.

[0152] The phrase "access network device entering the first area" can include: the access network device is about to enter the first area, and / or the access network device has just entered the first area. "Access network device entering the first area" can also be understood as the access network device is currently entering the first area. "Access network device is about to enter the first area" can include the access network device not currently entering the first area. "Access network device has just entered the first area" can include the access network device already entering the first area.

[0153] In one example, if an access network device goes from having no coverage of the first area to partially covering the first area, it can be considered that the access network device has "entered" the first area. In another example, if an access network device completely covers the first area, it can be considered that the access network device has "entered" the first area.

[0154] The access network device is about to enter the first area, which can be understood as the access network device not currently covering (or partially covering) the first area. However, within a first preset time period, the access network device will partially or fully cover the first area.

[0155] The first preset duration can be determined based on the first multicast / broadcast service. In other words, the first preset duration can be service-related. For example, when the continuity requirement of the first multicast / broadcast service is high, the first preset duration can be set to a longer duration, such as 1 second (s). This allows the access network device to quickly establish the corresponding multicast / broadcast session context, thereby ensuring the continuous provision of the first multicast / broadcast service and improving its continuity. Conversely, when the continuity requirement of the first multicast / broadcast service is low, the first preset duration can be set to a shorter duration, such as 1 millisecond (ms). This allows for the mitigation of interruptions to the first multicast / broadcast service due to satellite (access network device) movement.

[0156] When an access network device enters the first area, it can be understood that the access network device currently partially or fully covers the first area, but the difference between the current time and the time when the access network device does not cover (or does not partially cover) the first area is less than or equal to the second preset duration. In other words, the access network device has now entered the first area, but the duration of its entry into the first area is less than or equal to the second preset duration.

[0157] The second preset duration can be determined based on the first multicast / broadcast service. In other words, the second preset duration can be service-related. For example, if the continuity requirement of the first multicast / broadcast service is high, the second preset duration can be set to a smaller value, such as 1ms. This allows the access network device to provide the first multicast / broadcast service as quickly as possible, thereby reducing the service interruption latency. Alternatively, if the continuity requirement of the first multicast / broadcast service is low, the second preset duration can be set to a longer value, such as 1s. This reduces the processing and storage overhead of the access network device, allowing the device to use the saved processing and storage resources to provide other services.

[0158] The phrase "access network device leaving the first area" can include: the access network device is about to leave the first area, and / or the access network device has just left the first area. "Access network device leaving the first area" can also be understood as the access network device is currently leaving the first area. "Access network device is about to leave the first area" can include the access network device not currently leaving the first area. "Access network device has just left the first area" can include the access network device having already left the first area.

[0159] In one example, if an access network device goes from fully covering the first area to partially covering the first area, it can be considered that the access network device has "left" the first area. In another example, if an access network device does not cover the first area at all, it can be considered that the access network device has "left" the first area.

[0160] The access network device is about to leave the first area. This can be understood as the access network device currently partially or completely covering the first area. However, within the third preset time period, the access network device will completely or partially cover the first area.

[0161] The third preset duration can be determined based on the first multicast / broadcast service. In other words, the third preset duration can be service-related. For example, if the continuity requirement of the first multicast / broadcast service is low, the third preset duration can be set longer, such as 1 second. This allows the access network device to release the first multicast / broadcast service as quickly as possible, and the processing and storage overhead after release can be used to provide other services. Satellite (access network device) movement may cause service interruption. Alternatively, if the continuity requirement of the first multicast / broadcast service is high, the third preset duration can be set shorter, such as 1 ms. This way, because the access network device releases the first session context resources later, the service interruption time caused by satellite (access network device) movement will be shorter, thus ensuring the continuity of the first multicast / broadcast service.

[0162] When an access network device has just left the first area, it can be understood that the access network device currently does not cover the first area at all or only partially covers it, but the difference between the current moment and the moment when the access network device partially or fully covers the first area is less than or equal to the fourth preset duration. In other words, the access network device has now left the first area, but the duration of its departure from the first area is less than or equal to the fourth preset duration.

[0163] The fourth preset duration can be determined based on the storage space of the access network device. Alternatively, the fourth preset duration can be related to the capabilities of the access network device. For example, if the access network device has limited storage space, the fourth preset duration can be set to a shorter value, such as 1ms. This allows the access network device to release the first multicast / broadcast service as quickly as possible, saving storage space, which can then be used to provide other services. Conversely, if the access network device has ample storage space, the fourth preset duration can be set to a longer value, such as 1 second. This allows the access network device to release the first multicast / broadcast service when idle, avoiding the consumption of current processing overhead.

[0164] In some alternative implementations, S330 can be replaced by: the first network element determines to update the first session.

[0165] S340, the first network element sends first information to the second network element. Correspondingly, the second network element receives the first information from the first network element.

[0166] Unless otherwise specified, the term "second network element" in this application may refer to the second network element itself (e.g., AMF, or first access network device), a component within the second network element (e.g., processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the second network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the second network element as an example.

[0167] The first information can be used to update the first session. For example, the first information can instruct a second network element to update the first session. Thus, the first network element can update the first session according to the instruction of the first information. Updating the first session may include updating the context of the first session. For example, the first information can be used to update the context of the first session stored by a first access network device.

[0168] In one example, the first information may include an identifier of the access network device (e.g., the identifier of a first access network device). In this case, the second network element can update the context of the first session of the access network device (e.g., the first access network device) corresponding to that identifier. In another example, the first information may include a session identifier, such as a first identifier, which corresponds to the first session. In this case, the second network element can update the session corresponding to that identifier. In yet another example, the first information may indicate whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area, thereby triggering the second network element to update the first session.

[0169] In one example, the first network element can be an MB-SMF. The second network element can be an AMF. Thus, the AMF can update the context related to the first session in the first access network device based on the first information. For example, the AMF can send indication information to the first access network device, which instructs the first access network device to update its stored context related to the first session. Optionally, the first information includes multicast / broadcast service area information for the first session. The AMF can determine whether the access network device has entered or left the first area based on the multicast / broadcast service area information of the first session.

[0170] In another example, the first network element can be an AMF (Advanced Feature Provider), and the second network element can be a first access network device. Thus, the first access network device can update its stored context related to the first session based on the first information. Exemplarily, the first information can be carried in an N2 message request. However, this application is not limited to this; the first information can be carried in other messages.

[0171] In another example, the first network element can be an MB-SMF, and the second network element can be a first access network device. In this way, the first access network device can update its stored context related to the first session based on the first information.

[0172] Updating the first session may include at least one of the following: establishing the first session, modifying the first session, or releasing (or deleting) the first session.

[0173] S350, the second network element updates the first session based on the first information.

[0174] In one example, the first information can instruct the second network element to update the first session, so that the second network element can update the first session according to the instructions of the first information.

[0175] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the first network element is an MB-SMF, the second network element is an AMF, and the first information includes fourth information used to indicate the first area. Optionally, the second network element determines the access network device entering or leaving the first area based on the fourth information.

[0176] The fourth information can be direct indication information; for example, it may include the first area itself. The fourth information can also be indirect indication information; for example, it may include an identifier for the first area. In this way, the second network element can determine the first area based on the identifier in the fourth information.

[0177] This application does not limit the specific name of the fourth information, which may also be called an instruction, a regional instruction, or have other names.

[0178] For example, the first region may be an MBS service region. Thus, the first information may include information indicating the MBS service region.

[0179] The first information can be carried in the MBS context update request message, but this application is not limited to this; the first information can also be carried in other messages. Further, S350 may include: the AMF updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area based on the fourth information.

[0180] For example, the AMF can send indication information to an access network device entering the first area, instructing the access network device to establish the context of the first session. Optionally, the indication information includes the context of the first session. As another example, the AMF can send indication information to an access network device leaving the first area, instructing the access network device to release the context of the first session.

[0181] Sending the first message from the MB-SMF to the AMF can be understood as the MB-SMF initiating a session update procedure (e.g., a context update procedure for the MBS) to the AMF. This application does not limit the specific name of the first message; the first message may be called a request, an instruction, or have other names.

[0182] Based on the above scheme, when the MB-SMF initiates a session update procedure to the AMF, it can send information indicating the first area to the AMF. This allows the AMF to inspect the access network devices in the first area, thereby updating the context of the first session of the access network devices entering or leaving the first area. Combined with the aforementioned scheme, the access network device corresponding to the first session can enter or leave the first area. Therefore, the AMF can perform multiple checks on the access network devices in the first area based on multiple instructions from the MB-SMF.

[0183] Those skilled in the art will understand that in terrestrial network scenarios, the MB-SMF may issue multiple instructions to the AMF, but each instruction pertains to a different area. The AMF only initiates a session update procedure when the service area changes. Specifically, the AMF releases the context of the access network devices in the old area and establishes the context of the access network devices in the new area.

[0184] Optionally, in other implementations of the above embodiments, after S350, the method 300 further includes: the AMF receiving fifth information from the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the MB-SMF sends the fifth information to the AMF.

[0185] The fifth piece of information can be used to update the first session. The fifth piece of information may include the fourth piece of information.

[0186] The fifth message may have a similar function to the first message (e.g., both the fifth and first messages include the fourth message; both are used to update the first session), but the fifth message and the first message may not be the same message. For example, the fifth message and the first message may be carried in different messages. Another example is that the fifth message and the first message may be sent (or received) at different times. Further descriptions of the fifth message can be found in the aforementioned description of the first message.

[0187] Furthermore, method 300 may also include: AMF updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area based on the fifth information.

[0188] In other words, the MB-SMF can initiate a session update procedure to the AMF for the same area. After receiving the fifth message, the AMF will check the access network devices in the first area, even if the first area has been checked before. In other words, if the area indicated in the fifth message is the same as the area indicated in the first message, the AMF can check the access network devices in the area indicated in the fifth message based on the fifth message, thereby updating the context of the access network devices entering or leaving the area related to the first session.

[0189] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the first information includes second indication information, which is used to indicate that the first session is updated according to the fourth information.

[0190] For example, the second indication information can instruct the AMF to update the MBS context based on the information indicating the area in the first information; or, the second indication information can instruct the AMF to determine whether an access network device has entered or left the first area based on the information indicating the area in the first information. Furthermore, if the AMF determines that an access network device has entered or left the first area, it can update the MBS session context.

[0191] This application does not limit the specific name of the second instruction information, which may also be called instruction, update instruction or have other names.

[0192] Furthermore, the AMF updates the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area based on the fourth information, which may include: the AMF updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area based on the second instruction information and the fourth information.

[0193] Based on the above scheme, when the MB-SMF initiates a session update procedure to the AMF, it can send information indicating the first area and information indicating the update to the AMF. In this way, the AMF can check the access network devices in the first area according to the information indicating the update, thereby updating the context of the first session of the access network devices entering or leaving the first area.

[0194] In the above embodiments, the first network element can determine whether an access network device corresponding to the first session has entered or left the first area. If the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area, the first network element can send first information to the second network element for updating the first session, thereby enabling the second network element to update the first session.

[0195] Based on the above scheme, as access network devices enter or leave the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services, the first network element can instruct the second network element to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of multicast / broadcast services in the service area and improving service continuity in NTN scenarios.

[0196] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, S330 includes: the first network element determining, based on the second information, whether the first access network device has entered or left the first area. Alternatively, the first network element determining, based on the second information, whether the first access network device provides or does not provide the first multicast / broadcast service. Here, "providing the first multicast / broadcast service" can be understood as soon as the first multicast / broadcast service is to be provided, or, or, already provided. "Not providing the first multicast / broadcast service" can be understood as soon as the first multicast / broadcast service is not to be provided, or, already not to be provided.

[0197] The access network device corresponding to the first session may include a first access network device. For example, the first access network device may be one or more access network devices corresponding to the first session.

[0198] In one possible implementation, the second information can be used to indicate the time period during which the first access network device covers the first area. For example, the second information can indicate that the first access network device covers the first area from 1:00 AM to 1:15 AM. Here, the term "coverage" can be understood as partial and / or full coverage. For instance, the first access network device may not cover the first area at all before 1:00 AM, partially cover the first area starting at 1:00 AM, fully cover the first area starting at 1:07 AM, and switch from full coverage to partial coverage of the first area starting at 1:15 AM. Yet another example: the first access network device may not cover the first area at all before 1:00 AM, partially cover the first area starting at 1:00 AM, and completely not cover the first area starting at 1:15 AM. Still another example: the first access network device may partially cover the first area before 1:00 AM, fully cover the first area starting at 1:00 AM, and switch from full coverage to partial coverage of the first area starting at 1:15 AM. For example, the first access network device can partially cover the first area before 1 o'clock, fully cover the first area at 1 o'clock, switch from fully covering the first area to partially covering the first area at 1:07, and completely stop covering the first area at 1:15.

[0199] Optionally, the second information may include ephemeris information. The ephemeris information can indicate the flight trajectory, altitude, and flight time of the access network device. Alternatively, the ephemeris information can indicate the flight trajectory, altitude, and flight time of the satellites deployed by the access network device.

[0200] The ephemeris information of the first access network device can indicate the flight trajectory, altitude, and flight time of the device (or its deployed satellites). Thus, the ephemeris information of the first access network device can indirectly indicate the time period during which it covers the first area. For example, the first network element can determine the time period during which the first access network device covers the first area based on its ephemeris information and the location information of the first area.

[0201] The ephemeris information in the second information may include ephemeris information of the first access network device, or it may include ephemeris information of more access network devices. For example, the ephemeris information in the second information may include ephemeris information of some or all satellites. Another example is that the ephemeris information in the second information may include ephemeris information of some or all satellites capable of covering the first area. Yet another example is that the ephemeris information in the second information may include ephemeris information of some or all satellites capable of covering the first area during the duration of the first multicast / broadcast service.

[0202] In another possible implementation, the second information can be used to indicate the time period during which the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service within the first area. For example, the second information can indicate that the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service from 1:00 AM to 1:15 PM.

[0203] The time period during which the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area can also be referred to as the effective time of the first access network device, which is not limited in this application.

[0204] Based on the above scheme, the first network element can determine whether any access network devices have entered or left the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services according to the second information, thereby instructing the second network element to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices.

[0205] Optionally, in some other implementations of the above embodiments, the method 300 further includes: S310.

[0206] S310, the first network element receives the second information from the AMF or the operation and maintenance management network element. Correspondingly, the AMF or the operation and maintenance management network element sends the second information to the first network element.

[0207] S310 can be executed before S330.

[0208] In one example, when the first network element is an MB-SMF, the first network element can receive second information from an AMF or an operation and maintenance management network element (e.g., OAM). However, this application is not limited to this; the MB-SMF can also receive second information from other network elements.

[0209] In another example, when the first network element is an AMF, the first network element can receive second information from an operation, maintenance, and management network element (e.g., an OAM). However, this application is not limited to this; the AMF can also receive second information from other network elements.

[0210] Optionally, in other implementations of the above embodiments, the method 300 further includes: S320.

[0211] S320, the first network element receives the third information from the second network element. Correspondingly, the second network element sends the third information to the first network element.

[0212] In one possible implementation, the third information can be used to indicate whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area. Alternatively, the third information can be used to indicate a change in the access network devices within the first area (e.g., an event occurs where an access network device enters or leaves the first area).

[0213] In another possible implementation, the third information can be used to instruct (or trigger) the update of the first session. In other words, the third information can be used to instruct the first network element to update the first session. Or, the third information can be used to instruct the first network element to initiate the process of updating the first session. That is, the first network element can learn that the first session needs to be updated based on the third information.

[0214] In one possible implementation, method 300 further includes: the second network element determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area. In another possible implementation, method 300 further includes: the second network element determining to update the first session.

[0215] This application does not limit the specific name of the third information, which may also be called a notice, instruction, request, or have other names.

[0216] In one possible implementation, S330 can be replaced by S320. For example, MB-SMF can perform session updates based on third-party information without needing to determine whether an access network device has entered or left the first area.

[0217] Further, S330 may include: (S332) the first network element determines, based on the third information, whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area.

[0218] In one example, the first network element is MB-SMF, and the second network element is AMF. In another example, the first network element is AMF, and the second network element is the first access network device. In yet another example, the first network element is MB-SMF, and the second network element is the first access network device.

[0219] Optionally, in other implementations of the above embodiments, the third information carries a first identifier. The first identifier corresponds to the first session. In other words, the first identifier is associated with the first session. In other words, the first identifier is the identifier corresponding to the first session. In other words, the first session is the session corresponding to the first identifier. For example, the first identifier may be a temporary mobile group identifier (TMGI).

[0220] In this way, the MB-SMF can determine the first session based on the first identifier; and based on the first session, determine whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area. That is, the MB-SMF can determine whether the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier enters or leaves the first area. In other words, it can implicitly indicate whether the access network device corresponding to the session enters or leaves the first area, or the session identifier can implicitly indicate that the session needs to be updated.

[0221] Furthermore, S332 may include: the first network element determining whether the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier enters or leaves the first area.

[0222] For example, the first network element can determine whether one or more access network devices enter or leave the first area, and these one or more access network devices correspond to a session corresponding to the first identifier. Alternatively, the one or more access network devices correspond to a session, and that session corresponds to the first identifier.

[0223] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the third information includes first indication information, which is used to indicate that the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier enters or leaves the first area.

[0224] This application does not limit the specific name of the first instruction information, which may also be referred to as instruction, update instruction or have other names.

[0225] Further, S332 may include: the first network element determining, based on the first indication information, whether the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier enters or leaves the first area.

[0226] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the access network device corresponding to the first session includes the first access network device and / or the second access network device, wherein the second access network device is different from the first access network device.

[0227] The access network device corresponding to the first session may include a first access network device. The access network device corresponding to the first session may include a second access network device.

[0228] For example, the first access network device may be deployed on the first satellite, and the second access network device may be deployed on the second satellite. The first satellite and the second satellite may be the same satellite or different satellites.

[0229] In the example where the first network element is MB-SMF and the second network element is AMF, the AMF can monitor whether there are changes in the access network devices within the first area. If one or more access network devices enter or leave the first area, the AMF instructs one or more access network devices (e.g., the first access network device and / or the second access network device) to enter or leave the first area via third information.

[0230] For example, the AMF can monitor the movement of satellites within the first area based on information from the first area and second information. In this way, the AMF can determine whether there are events of satellites (carrying access network equipment) entering or leaving the first area, and thus send third information to the MB-SMF. Optionally, the AMF can trigger monitoring of satellites in the first area if the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area is provided by access network equipment deployed on the satellite.

[0231] In an example where the first network element is an AMF or MB-SMF and the second network element is a first access network device, the first access network device can monitor whether it enters or leaves the first area, and can also monitor whether other access network devices (e.g., the second access network device) enter or leave the first area. If it and / or other access network devices enter or leave the first area, the AMF instructs itself and / or other access network devices (e.g., the first access network device and / or the second access network device) to enter or leave the first area via third information.

[0232] For example, a first access network device can determine whether it has entered or left a first area based on its own location and the location information of that first area. As another example, the first access network device can sense changes in the movement trajectories of other satellites (e.g., those deployed with second access network devices) based on the location information of the first area and the ephemeris information of multiple satellites. In this way, the first access network device can determine that there have been changes in the access network devices within the first area, and thus send third information to the AMF or MB-SMF. Yet another example is that the first access network device can interact with other access network devices (e.g., second access network devices) to determine whether other access network devices have entered or left the first area. Exemplarily, the first access network device can interact with other access network devices through the Xn interface.

[0233] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of another communication method 400 provided in this application embodiment. Method 400 can be a further embodiment of method 300. In method 400, the MB-SMF can trigger the release and establishment of the context (or broadcast context) of the first session with the access network device (or RAN, or RAN node) based on the second information. Optional operations in method 400 include... Figure 4 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 4 Method 400 is introduced.

[0234] S402, the application function network element sends an MBS session creation request to the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the MB-SMF receives the MBS session creation request from the application function network element.

[0235] The MBS session establishment request can be used to request the establishment of the first multicast / broadcast service. For example, the MBS session establishment request can be used to request the 5G core network (5GC) to establish the MBS service.

[0236] Among them, the application function network element can be AF. The following description takes AF as an example.

[0237] Optionally, the MBS session establishment request may include the location information (or the identifier of the first area) of the first area. The first multicast / broadcast service corresponds to the first area.

[0238] In one possible implementation, the application function network element can send an MBS session establishment request to the session management network element through NEF and / or MBSF.

[0239] In one possible implementation, prior to S402, method 400 further includes: the application function network element initiating a TMGI configuration process to the session management network element. This allows the application function network element to obtain the session identifier and subsequently initiate an MBS service establishment request to the session management network element.

[0240] S404, the MB-SMF sends an MBS context establishment request to the AMF. Correspondingly, the AMF receives the MBS context establishment request from the MB-SMF.

[0241] The MBS context establishment request can be used to request the establishment of the context for the first multicast / broadcast service.

[0242] The MBS context establishment request may include information about a first region. For example, the first region information may be information about the MBS service area. The MBS context establishment request may include a first identifier, such as TMGI. This first identifier corresponds to a first session. This first session is used to carry the first multicast / broadcast service.

[0243] S406, AMF sends an N2 message request to RAN#1. Correspondingly, RAN#1 receives the N2 message request from AMF.

[0244] The N2 message request can be used to request the establishment of the context for the first multicast / broadcast service.

[0245] For example, the AMF can determine the RAN within the first region based on the location information of the first region, and then send the N2 message request to the corresponding RAN (or RAN node).

[0246] Wherein, the aforementioned "RAN within the first area" may include RANs that partially or completely cover the first area. The aforementioned "corresponding RAN" may include at least one of the RANs currently entering the first area, RANs covering the first area, or RANs leaving the first area. In method 400, the corresponding RAN may include RAN#1. RAN#1 may include one or more RANs. In method 400, other RANs besides RAN#1 that are capable of providing the first multicast / broadcast service within the first area may be referred to as RAN#2. RAN#1 can be understood as the RAN that established the context of the first session when the first session was initially established. The first access network device may be one or more RANs in RAN#1, one or more RANs in RAN#2, or one or more RANs in both RAN#1 and RAN#2. For simplicity of illustration, Figure 4 In this context, RAN#1 and RAN#2 are not distinguished; both are represented by RAN.

[0247] The N2 message request may include a first identifier and location information of the first area (or the identifier of the first area). The N2 message request may also be called a context establishment request for the first multicast / broadcast service or have other names.

[0248] Optionally, the AMF sends second information to the MB-SMF. This second information can be used to assist the MB-SMF in releasing and establishing the subsequent MBS session context. That is, after S406, the AMF, as the second network element, executes S310. For example, the AMF can determine to send the second information to the MB-SMF based on the current satellite (SAT) access technology type (RAT). The second information may include ephemeris information. However, this application is not limited to this, and the AMF may also choose not to execute S310.

[0249] S408, RAN#1 establishes the context of the first session based on the N2 message request.

[0250] S410, RAN#1 sends an N2 message response to AMF. Correspondingly, AMF receives the N2 message response from RAN#1.

[0251] The N2 message response can indicate that the context establishment of the first session is complete.

[0252] The N2 message response may include a session establishment context reply message. For example, the session establishment context reply message may include a first identifier and N3 tunnel information on the RAN side. This N3 tunnel information can be used to trigger tunnel establishment between the RAN and the MB-UPF.

[0253] S412, the AMF sends a session establishment context reply message to the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the MB-SMF receives the session establishment context reply message from the AMF.

[0254] Understandably, the AMF can send the session establishment context reply message received from the RAN side to the MB-SMF.

[0255] S414, MB-SMF sends a session establishment context reply message to MB-UPF. Correspondingly, MB-UPF receives the session establishment context reply message from MB-SMF.

[0256] In other words, the MB-SMF can trigger the MB-UPF side to establish the corresponding N3 tunnel, thereby ensuring that the N3 tunnel between the RAN and the MB-UPF is established.

[0257] In one possible implementation, after S402, method 400 may further include: the MB-SMF executing S310. The MB-SMF may act as a first network element. For example, the MB-SMF may execute S414 and then execute S310 as a first network element. In another possible implementation, before S310, method 400 may further include: the MB-SMF sending a request message to the AMF, OAM, or other network elements. This request message is used to request second information.

[0258] In one possible implementation, method 400 may further include: the MB-SMF performing S332 and S340. The MB-SMF can serve as the first network element; the AMF can serve as the second network element.

[0259] In one possible implementation, method 400 may further include: the AMF performing S350. Here, the AMF can serve as a second network element. In another possible implementation, method 400 may further include: the AMF performing S340 and S350. Optionally, the AMF performs S330. Here, the AMF can serve as a first network element, and the first access network device can serve as a second network element.

[0260] S420, RAN#1 and / or RAN#2 send the first identifier and updated N3 tunnel information to the AMF. Correspondingly, the AMF receives the first identifier and updated N3 tunnel information from RAN#1 and / or RAN#2.

[0261] S422, AMF sends the first identifier and updated N3 tunnel information to MB-SMF. Correspondingly, MB-SMF receives the first identifier and updated N3 tunnel information from AMF.

[0262] S424, MB-SMF sends the first identifier and updated N3 tunnel information to MB-UPF. Correspondingly, MB-UPF receives the first identifier and updated N3 tunnel information from MB-SMF.

[0263] In other words, the MB-SMF can trigger the MB-UPF side to update the corresponding N3 tunnel, ensuring that the N3 tunnel between the RAN and the MB-UPF is updated, thereby completing the MBS context update process.

[0264] Based on the above scheme, as access network devices enter or leave the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services, the MB-SMF can instruct the AMF to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of multicast / broadcast services in the service area and improving the service continuity of multicast / broadcast services in NTN scenarios.

[0265] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method 500 provided in this application embodiment. Method 500 can be a further embodiment of method 300. In method 500, the AMF can notify the MB-SMF to initiate an update procedure for the first session based on changes in access network equipment within the first area. Optional operations in method 500 include... Figure 5 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 5 Method 500 is introduced.

[0266] Method 500 may include S320, S330, and S340. MB-SMF can be used as the first network element; AMF can be used as the second network element.

[0267] In one possible implementation, prior to S320, method 500 may also include at least one of S402, S404, S406, S408, S410, S412, or S414.

[0268] In one possible implementation, after S406, the AMF can monitor satellite movement within the first area based on information from the first area and second information. In another possible implementation, after S406, the AMF can communicate with access network equipment (deployed on the satellite) via the NG interface to detect satellite movement within the first area. In this way, the AMF can determine whether there are events of satellites (carrying access network equipment) entering or leaving the first area, thereby sending third information to the MB-SMF.

[0269] Optionally, the AMF can trigger monitoring of satellites in the first area if the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area is provided by an access network device deployed on a satellite. The AMF can execute S320 if it detects an access network device entering or leaving the first area.

[0270] In method 500, RAN#1 may include one or more RANs. RAN#1 can be understood as the RAN that established the context of the first session when the first session was initially established. Other RANs besides RAN#1 that can provide the first multicast / broadcast service within the first area can be referred to as RAN#2. The first access network device can be one or more RANs in RAN#1, one or more RANs in RAN#2, or one or more RANs in both RAN#1 and RAN#2. For simplicity of illustration, Figure 5 In this context, RAN#1 and RAN#2 are not distinguished; both are represented by RAN.

[0271] In one possible implementation, method 500 may further include: S350. Here, the AMF can act as a second network element. In another possible implementation, method 500 may further include: the AMF performing S340 and S350. Optionally, the AMF performs S330. Here, the AMF can act as a first network element, and the first access network device can act as a second network element.

[0272] In one possible implementation, method 500 may further include at least one of S420, S422, or S424.

[0273] Based on the above scheme, the AMF can monitor the first area. As access network devices enter or leave the service area of ​​multicast / broadcast services, the AMF can instruct the MB-SMF to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of multicast / broadcast services in the service area and improving the service continuity of multicast / broadcast services in NTN scenarios.

[0274] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method 600 provided in this application embodiment. Method 600 may be a further embodiment of method 300. In method 600, the first access network device can notify the MB-SMF to initiate an update procedure for the first session based on changes in access network devices within a first area. Optional operations in method 600 include... Figure 6 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 6 Method 600 is introduced.

[0275] S610, the first access network device determines that it is leaving the first area, and / or, other access network devices enter or leave the first area.

[0276] S620, the first access network device sends the eleventh message to the AMF. Correspondingly, the AMF receives the eleventh message from the first access network device.

[0277] The eleventh piece of information can be used to instruct the first access network device to leave the first area, and / or for other access network devices to enter or leave the first area. "Other access network devices" can refer to access network devices other than the first access network device. Further descriptions of the eleventh piece of information can be found in the description of the third piece of information, and will not be repeated here.

[0278] In some other possible implementations, S610 and S620 can be replaced by S330 and S340. In these implementations, the first access network device can serve as the first network element, and the AMF can serve as the second network element.

[0279] Furthermore, method 600 may include: S320, S330, and S340. Among these, MB-SMF can be used as the first network element; AMF can be used as the second network element.

[0280] In one possible implementation, prior to S320, method 600 may also include at least one of S402, S404, S406, S408, S410, S412, or S414.

[0281] In one possible implementation, after S408, the first access network device can detect whether it has left the first area based on the location information of the first area. For example, the first access network device can detect whether it has left the first area based on the second information and the location information of the first area. In another possible implementation, after S408, the first access network device can detect whether other access network devices have entered or left the first area based on the location information of the first area. For example, the first access network device can detect whether other access network devices have entered or left the first area based on ephemeris information (or the effective time of other access network devices) and the location information of the first area. For another example, the first access network device can interact with other access network devices through the Xn interface to determine whether other access network devices have entered or left the first area. If the first access network device detects that an access network device has entered or left the first area, the first access network device can execute S620.

[0282] In method 600, RAN#1 may include one or more RANs. RAN#1 can be understood as the RAN that established the context of the first session when the first session was initially established. Other RANs besides RAN#1 that are capable of providing the first multicast / broadcast service within the first area can be referred to as RAN#2. The first access network device can be one or more RANs in RAN#1, one or more RANs in RAN#2, or one or more RANs in both RAN#1 and RAN#2. For simplicity of illustration, Figure 6 In this context, RAN#1 and RAN#2 are not distinguished; both are represented by RAN.

[0283] In one possible implementation, method 600 may further include: S360. Here, the AMF can act as a second network element. In another possible implementation, method 600 may further include: the AMF performing S340 and S360. Optionally, the AMF performs S330. Here, the AMF can act as a first network element, and the first access network device can act as a second network element.

[0284] In one possible implementation, method 600 may further include at least one of S420, S422, or S424.

[0285] Based on the above scheme, the first access network device can monitor the first area. As the access network device enters or leaves the service area of ​​the multicast / broadcast service, the first access network device can instruct the MB-SMF to update the sessions corresponding to these access network devices, thereby ensuring the smooth operation of multicast / broadcast services in the service area and improving the service continuity of multicast / broadcast services in the NTN scenario.

[0286] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating another communication method 700 provided in this application embodiment. Method 700 can improve service continuity in NTN scenarios. Method 700 can be combined with method 300, method 400, method 500, or method 600. Optional operations in method 700 include... Figure 7 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 7 Method 700 is introduced.

[0287] S720, AMF determines the first time period.

[0288] Unless otherwise specified, the term AMF in this application may refer to the AMF itself, a component within the AMF (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or a logic module or software capable of implementing all or part of the AMF's functions. For ease of description, the following description uses the AMF as an example.

[0289] The first time period can be the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service within the second area. The second area can be the service area for the second multicast / broadcast service. The first time period can be the time period associated with the MB-UPF and the third access network device. The first time period can be the time period during which data transmission is possible between the MB-UPF and the third access network device. The first time period can be the duration of the second identifier (e.g., TMGI) of the MBS session (e.g., the second session) corresponding to the third access network device. The first time period can also be referred to as the duration of the third access network device.

[0290] The second multicast / broadcast service may be the same as or different from the first multicast / broadcast service. Further descriptions of the second multicast / broadcast service can be found in the above description of the first multicast / broadcast service, and will not be repeated here.

[0291] The second area can be the service area for the second multicast / broadcast service. Further details regarding the second area can be found in the description of the first area above, and will not be repeated here.

[0292] The second session can be used to carry a second multicast / broadcast service. Further details regarding the second session can be found in the description of the first session above, and will not be repeated here.

[0293] The access network device corresponding to the second session may include a third access network device. The third access network device may be the same as or different from the first access network device. The description of the "access network device corresponding to the second session" can be found above regarding the description of the access network device corresponding to the first session, and will not be repeated here.

[0294] For example, a first access network device may be deployed on a first satellite; a second access network device may be deployed on a second satellite; and a third access network device may be deployed on a third satellite. The third satellite and the first satellite may be the same satellite or different satellites. The third satellite and the second satellite may be the same satellite or different satellites.

[0295] The first time period can be the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area. For example, the first time period can indicate that the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service from 1:00 AM to 1:15 PM. The first time period can also be the time period during which the third access network device covers the second area. Here, the term "coverage" can be understood as partial and / or complete coverage, as detailed in the description above, which will not be repeated here.

[0296] This application does not specify the exact name of the first time period, which may also be referred to as the effective time, service time, or other names.

[0297] S730, the AMF sends the sixth message to the third access network device and / or the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the third access network device and / or the MB-SMF receive the sixth message from the AMF.

[0298] In one example, the AMF sends the sixth message to the third access network device. Furthermore, the AMF can send the first message to the MB-SMF when the third access network device enters or leaves the second area.

[0299] In another example, the AMF sends a sixth message to the MB-SMF. Furthermore, the AMF can send a first message to a third access network device when the third access network device enters or leaves the second area.

[0300] In another example, the AMF sends the sixth information to both the third access network device and the MB-SMF. The AMF can send the sixth information to both the third access network device and the MB-SMF simultaneously, or it can send the sixth information to each device separately; this application does not limit this. The AMF can send the sixth information to the third access network device first, and then to the MB-SMF; alternatively, it can send the sixth information to the MB-SMF first, and then to the third access network device; this application does not limit this either.

[0301] The sixth piece of information can be used to indicate the first time period.

[0302] In one possible implementation, the sixth information can be direct indication information, meaning it includes the first time period. In other possible implementations, the sixth information can be indirect indication information, allowing the receiving end to determine the first time period based on this sixth information. For example, the receiving end can pre-obtain the mapping relationship between time periods and identifiers. The sixth information can include the identifier, allowing the receiving end to determine the first time period corresponding to that identifier.

[0303] The embodiments of this application do not limit the name of the sixth information. For example, the sixth information may also be called indication information, configuration information, time information, or have other names.

[0304] Based on the above scheme, the AMF can send information indicating a time period to the access network device and / or MB-SMF. This time period can be the period during which the access network device provides multicast / broadcast services. In this way, the access network device and / or MB-SMF can activate or release the context of the multicast / broadcast service according to the time period information. This scheme enables the timely activation of the multicast / broadcast service context, improving service continuity in NTN scenarios. Furthermore, it enables the timely release of the multicast / broadcast service context, reducing the storage overhead of the access network device, MB-SMF, or MB-UPF. Moreover, this scheme allows the access network device, MB-SMF, or MB-UPF to activate or release the multicast / broadcast service context based on the time period information, thereby reducing the signaling overhead of the AMF updating the multicast / broadcast service.

[0305] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the sixth information is carried in the second message, which is used to request the establishment of a tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the MB-UPF and the third access network device.

[0306] For example, the tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the MB-UPF and the third access network device can be an N3 tunnel. The second message can also be understood as a request to establish context for the MB-UPF and / or the third access network device. For example, if the sixth information is sent by the AMF to the third access network device, the second message can be an N2 message request. If the sixth information is sent by the AMF to the MB-SMF, the second message can be a session update request, such as a multicast / broadcast session context update request (MBS session context update request). The second message can also be other messages, which are not limited in this application.

[0307] Optionally, in some other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the third access network device does not cover the second area. It is understood that the third access network device currently does not cover the second area. For example, the third access network device is close to the second area and is about to enter it. Or, for example, the third access network device is far from the second area.

[0308] Based on the above scheme, the AMF can request the third access network device to establish a context for the second multicast / broadcast service even when the third access network device does not cover the second area. In other words, the AMF can pre-establish the context of at least one access network device that will be able to provide multicast / broadcast services in the future. This scheme avoids the need for the third access network device to temporarily establish a multicast / broadcast service context when entering the second area, thereby further improving service continuity in NTN scenarios.

[0309] For example, the AMF can be established in advance within the context of all or part of the access network devices passing through the second area during the duration of the second multicast / broadcast service. Here, "access network devices passing through the second area" can be understood as "access network devices covering the second area."

[0310] S740, the MB-SMF sends the tenth message to the MB-UPF. Correspondingly, the MB-UPF receives the tenth message from the MB-SMF.

[0311] The tenth piece of information can be used to indicate the first time period.

[0312] In one possible implementation, the tenth information can be direct indication information, meaning it contains the first time period. In other possible implementations, the tenth information can be indirect indication information, allowing the receiving end to determine the first time period based on this information. For example, the receiving end can pre-obtain the mapping relationship between time periods and identifiers. The tenth information can contain an identifier, allowing the receiving end to determine the first time period corresponding to that identifier.

[0313] In one possible implementation, the tenth information can be the same as the sixth information. In this way, the MB-SMF can pass the received sixth information to the MB-UPF in the form of the tenth information. That is, the tenth information can actually be determined by the AMF.

[0314] The embodiments of this application do not limit the name of the tenth information. For example, the tenth information may also be called indication information, configuration information, time information, or have other names.

[0315] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the tenth information carries a third message, which is used to establish a tunnel for the second multicast / broadcast service between the user plane network element and the third access network device.

[0316] For example, the third message can be an N4 session modification request. The third message can also be other messages, which are not limited in this application.

[0317] S750, MB-UPF activates or releases the context related to the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service based on the tenth information.

[0318] For example, at the beginning of the first time period (or within a certain period before the beginning), the MB-UPF can activate the context associated with the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service. This activates the N3 tunnel on the MB-UPF side. The N3 tunnel is used for data transmission of the second multicast / broadcast service between the third access network device and the MB-UPF. Alternatively, at the end of the first time period (or within a certain period after the end), the MB-UPF can release the context associated with the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service. This releases the N3 tunnel on the MB-UPF side, thereby reducing the MB-UPF's storage overhead.

[0319] S760, the third access network device activates or releases the context of the second multicast / broadcast service based on the sixth information.

[0320] For example, at the beginning of the first time period (or within a certain period before the beginning), the third access network device can activate the context related to the second multicast / broadcast service. This activates the N3 tunnel on the third access network device side. The N3 tunnel is used for data transmission of the second multicast / broadcast service between the third access network device and the MB-UPF. Alternatively, at the end of the first time period (or within a certain period after the end), the third access network device can release the context related to the second multicast / broadcast service. This releases the N3 tunnel on the third access network device side, thereby reducing the storage overhead of the third access network device.

[0321] In some implementations, method 700 also includes S710. S710 can be executed before S720, but this application is not limited to this, and S710 can also be executed at other times.

[0322] S710, the AMF receives the seventh message from the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the MB-SMF sends the seventh message to the AMF.

[0323] This seventh piece of information can be used to indicate the second time period.

[0324] In one possible implementation, the seventh information can be direct indication information, meaning it contains the second time period. In other possible implementations, the seventh information can be indirect indication information, allowing the receiving end to determine the second time period based on this information. For example, the receiving end can pre-obtain the mapping relationship between time periods and identifiers. The seventh information can contain the identifier, allowing the receiving end to determine the second time period corresponding to that identifier.

[0325] The second time period can indicate the duration of the second multicast / broadcast service (or total time, duration segment, total time period, or other names). In one example, the second time period can indicate the start and end times of the second multicast / broadcast service. For example, the second time period can indicate that the second multicast / broadcast service starts at 12:00 and ends at 15:00.

[0326] Furthermore, S720 may include: (S722) AMF determines the first time period based on the seventh information.

[0327] For example, the AMF can determine the first time period based on the second time period. For instance, the AMF can determine the time period within the second time period during which the third access network device passes through the second area, and define that time period as the first time period. Here, "the third access network device passes through the second area" can be understood as the third access network device covering the second area.

[0328] Based on the above scheme, the MB-SMF can inform the AMF of the duration of the multicast / broadcast service through the seventh information. In this way, the AMF can determine the time period during which one or more access network devices cover the service area of ​​the multicast / broadcast service, based on the duration of the multicast / broadcast service.

[0329] In one possible implementation, S722 includes: AMF determining the first time period based on ephemeris information and the seventh information.

[0330] For example, the AMF can determine, based on the location and ephemeris information of the second region, all or part of the access network devices (including third access network devices) passing through the second region during a second time period. Furthermore, the AMF can determine the time period during which the third access network devices pass through the second region, i.e., the first time period.

[0331] Optionally, in other implementation scenarios of the above embodiments, the seventh information is carried in a first message, which is used to establish the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0332] For example, the first message may be an MBS context create request. However, this application is not limited to this, and the first message may also be other messages.

[0333] Optionally, in other implementations of the above embodiments, the method 700 further includes: (S770) the AMF receives eighth information from the third access network device. Correspondingly, the third access network device sends the eighth information to the AMF.

[0334] Specifically, the eighth message can be used to indicate that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service. In other words, the eighth message can be used to inform the AMF that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0335] Optionally, in other implementations of the above embodiments, the method 700 further includes: (S780) the AMF sends a ninth message to the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the MB-SMF receives the ninth message from the AMF.

[0336] Specifically, the ninth message can be used to indicate that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service. In other words, the ninth message can be used to inform the MB-SMF that the third access network device has released the context of the second multicast / broadcast service.

[0337] Furthermore, method 700 may also include: (S790) MB-SMF releases the context associated with the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service based on the ninth information.

[0338] Based on the above scheme, MB-SMF can release its own context and the context of the second multicast / broadcast service after the third access network device releases the context of the second multicast / broadcast service, thereby saving the storage overhead of MB-SMF.

[0339] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of another communication method 800 provided in this application embodiment. Method 800 can be a further embodiment of method 700. In method 800, the AMF can notify the MB-SMF to initiate an update procedure for the first session based on changes in access network equipment within the first area. Optional operations in method 800 include... Figure 8 The middle part is indicated by a dashed line. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 8 Method 800 is introduced.

[0340] Method 800 may include: S402 and / or S404.

[0341] In one possible implementation, in S402, the MBS session establishment request may include information indicating a second time period.

[0342] In one possible implementation, in S404, the MBS context establishment request may include information indicating a second time period. For example, the MBS context establishment request may include a seventh piece of information. Optionally, S404 can be replaced by S710.

[0343] S810, AMF sends an N2 message request to RAN#3. Correspondingly, RAN#3 receives the N2 message request from AMF.

[0344] Among them, the N2 message request can be used to request the establishment of a second multicast / broadcast service context.

[0345] For example, the AMF can send the N2 message request to the corresponding RAN (or RAN node) based on the location information of the second region.

[0346] Wherein, the aforementioned "corresponding RAN" may include at least one of the RAN currently entering the second area, the RAN covering the second area, or the RAN leaving the second area. In method 400, the corresponding RAN may include RAN#3. RAN#3 may include one or more RANs. In method 800, other RANs besides RAN#3 that can provide the second multicast / broadcast service within the second area may be referred to as RAN#4. RAN#3 can be understood as the RAN that established the context of the first session when the first session was initially established. The third access network device may be one or more RANs in RAN#3, one or more RANs in RAN#4, or one or more RANs in both RAN#3 and RAN#4. For simplicity of illustration, Figure 8 In this context, RAN#3 and RAN#4 are not distinguished; both are represented by RAN.

[0347] The N2 message request may include a second identifier and the location information of the second area (or the identifier of the second area). The N2 message request may also be called a context establishment request for a second multicast / broadcast service or have other names. The second identifier corresponds to the second session. The relationship between the second identifier and the second session is similar to the relationship between the first identifier and the first session; see the description above for details, which will not be repeated here.

[0348] In some possible implementations, in S810, the N2 message request can be sent by the AMF to RAN#3 and RAN#4. That is, the AMF can configure the context of all access network devices passing through the second area during the second time period. This context can be the context of the second multicast / broadcast service. In other possible implementations, in S810, the N2 message request can be sent by the AMF to some access network devices in RAN#3 and RAN#4.

[0349] Optionally, the N2 message request can be a second message. The N2 message request may include a sixth message. Optionally, prior to S810, method 800 further includes: S720.

[0350] S820, RAN#3 (or RAN#3 and RAN#4) establishes the context of the second session according to the N2 message request.

[0351] Accordingly, the third access network device can be one or more access network devices in RAN#3. Alternatively, the third access network device can be one or more access network devices in RAN#3 and RAN#4.

[0352] S830, RAN#3 (or RAN#3 and RAN#4) sends an N2 message response to the AMF. Correspondingly, the AMF receives the N2 message response from RAN#3 (or RAN#3 and RAN#4).

[0353] The N2 message response can indicate that the context establishment of the second session is complete.

[0354] The N2 message response may include a session establishment context reply message. For example, the session establishment context reply message may include a first identifier and N3 tunnel information on the RAN side. This N3 tunnel information can be used to trigger tunnel establishment between the RAN and the MB-UPF.

[0355] In one possible implementation, if the N2 message request includes the sixth information, after S810, the third access network device can activate or release the context of the second session (or the second multicast / broadcast service) based on the second time period, thereby activating or releasing the N3 tunnel on the third access network device side. In another possible implementation, if the N2 message request does not include the sixth information, the MB-SMF can determine whether the access network device corresponding to the second session (e.g., the third access network device) has entered or left the second area, thereby triggering operations similar to S332 and S340 in method 400. In yet another possible implementation, if the N2 message request does not include the sixth information, the AMF can monitor changes in access network devices within the second area, thereby triggering operations similar to S320, S330, and S340 in method 500. In yet still another possible implementation, if the N2 message request does not include the sixth information, after S810, the third access network device can monitor whether it or other access network devices have entered or left the second area. Furthermore, if the third access network device leaves the second area, and / or if other access network devices enter or leave the first area, the third access network device may send either the eleventh message or the first message to the AMF. The description of the eleventh message or the first message is given above and will not be repeated here.

[0356] S840, the AMF sends a session establishment context reply message to the MB-SMF. Correspondingly, the MB-SMF receives the session establishment context reply message from the AMF.

[0357] In one possible implementation, the AMF can send the session establishment context reply message received from the RAN side to the MB-SMF.

[0358] Optionally, the session establishment context response message may include a sixth message. Optionally, the session establishment context response message may be a second message.

[0359] S850, the MB-SMF sends a session establishment context reply message to the MB-UPF. Correspondingly, the MB-UPF receives the session establishment context reply message from the MB-SMF.

[0360] In other words, the MB-SMF can trigger the MB-UPF side to establish the corresponding N3 tunnel, thereby ensuring that the N3 tunnel between the RAN and the MB-UPF is established.

[0361] Optionally, the session establishment context response message may include a sixth message. Optionally, the session establishment context response message may be a second message.

[0362] In one possible implementation, if the session establishment context reply message includes the sixth information, after S850, the MB-UPF can activate or release the context of the second session (or the second multicast / broadcast service) based on the second time period, thereby activating or releasing the N3 tunnel on the MB-UPF side. In another possible implementation, if the session establishment context reply message does not include the sixth information, the MB-SMF can determine whether the access network device (e.g., the MB-UPF) corresponding to the second session has entered or left the second area, thereby triggering operations similar to S332 and S424 in method 400. In yet another possible implementation, if the session establishment context reply message does not include the sixth information, the AMF can monitor changes in access network devices within the second area, thereby triggering operations similar to S320, S330, and S424 in method 500.

[0363] Optionally, method 800 includes at least one of S770, S780, or S790.

[0364] Based on the above scheme, the AMF can send information indicating a time period to the access network device and / or MB-SMF. This time period can be the period during which the access network device provides multicast / broadcast services. In this way, the access network device and / or MB-SMF can activate or release the context of the multicast / broadcast service according to the time period information. This scheme enables the timely activation of the multicast / broadcast service context, improving service continuity in NTN scenarios. Furthermore, it enables the timely release of the multicast / broadcast service context, reducing the storage overhead of the access network device, MB-SMF, or MB-UPF. Moreover, this scheme allows the access network device, MB-SMF, or MB-UPF to activate or release the multicast / broadcast service context based on the time period information, thereby reducing the signaling overhead of the AMF updating the multicast / broadcast service.

[0365] The following describes the apparatus embodiments corresponding to the method embodiments of this application. Only a brief description of the apparatus is provided below; for specific implementation steps and details, please refer to the preceding method embodiments.

[0366] To achieve the functions of the methods provided in this application, the communication device may include hardware structures and / or software modules, implementing the aforementioned functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0367] Figure 9 This is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 1000 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1000 includes a processor 1010 and a communication interface 1020. Optionally, the processor 1010 and the communication interface 1020 can be interconnected via a bus. The communication device 1000 can be a first network element or a second network element. The communication device 1000 can be an AMF, MB-SMF, UPF, or a third access network device.

[0368] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a memory 1040. The memory 1040 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), cache, programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), hard disk drive (HDD), registers, solid-state drive (SSD), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 1040 is used to store related instructions and / or data. The memory 1040 may be integrated with the processor 1010 or disposed separately.

[0369] Processor 1010 can be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor. Processor 1010 may include one or more central processing units (CPUs), application processors, modem processors, graphics processors, image signal processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), video codec processors, controllers, or neural network processors. When processor 1010 is a CPU, the CPU can be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU. Processor 1010 can be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit capable of implementing the methods of this application, or a portion of the circuitry within the aforementioned processor, chip, or integrated circuit for processing functions. The processor in the embodiments of this application can be an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0370] The communication interface 1020 can be an input / output interface or an antenna. The input / output interface is used for inputting or outputting signals or data, or it can be an input / output circuit.

[0371] For example, the communication device 1000 is a first network element, and the processor 1010 is used to perform the following operations: determine whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area, the first session is used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service, and the first area is the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service; send first information to the second network element, the first information being used to update the first session.

[0372] For example, the communication device 1000 is a second network element, and the processor 1010 is used to perform the following operations: receiving first information from a first network element, the first information being used to update the first session, the first session being used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service, the access network device corresponding to the first session entering or leaving a first area, the first area being the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service; and updating the first session according to the first information.

[0373] For example, the communication device 1000 is an AMF, and the processor 1010 is configured to perform the following operations: determine a first time period, which is the time period during which the third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, and the second area is the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; and send a sixth message to the third access network device and / or the session management network element, the sixth message being used to indicate the first time period.

[0374] For example, the communication device 1000 is an MB-SMF, and the processor 1010 is configured to perform the following operations: receive sixth information from the access and mobility management network element, the sixth information being used to indicate the first time period, the first time period being the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; and send tenth information to the user plane network element, the tenth information being used to indicate the first time period.

[0375] For example, the communication device 1000 is an MB-UPF, and the processor 1010 is configured to perform the following operations: receive tenth information from a session management network element, the tenth information indicating a first time period, the first time period being a time period during which the third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; and activate or release a context related to the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service according to the tenth information.

[0376] For example, the communication device 1000 is a third access network device, and the processor 1010 is configured to perform the following operations: receive sixth information from an access and mobility management network element, the sixth information indicating the first time period, the first time period being the time period during which the third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; and activate or release the context of the second multicast / broadcast service according to the sixth information.

[0377] The above description is for illustrative purposes only. The communication device 1000 is responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the first network element, second network element, AMF, MB-SMF, MB-UPF, or third access network device in the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0378] In one possible implementation, the communication interface 1020 can be a transceiver. The transceiver may include a transmitter and a receiver, with the transmitter performing a transmission operation and the receiver performing a reception operation. For example, the processor 1010 is used to control the transceiver to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0379] In one possible implementation, the communication interface 1020 can also be a communication circuit, pins, input / output interfaces, bus, etc.

[0380] Communication device 1000 may include a transmitter but not a receiver. Alternatively, communication device 1000 may include a receiver but not a transmitter. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme performed by communication device 1000 includes both transmitting and receiving actions.

[0381] The above description is merely exemplary. For details, please refer to the content shown in the above method embodiments. Figure 9 The implementation of each operation can also be found by referring to... Figures 3 to 8 The corresponding description of the method embodiments shown.

[0382] For example, the communication device 1000 can be used to perform... Figures 3 to 8 The proposed solution is shown.

[0383] For example, the communication device 1000 is a first network element, and the processor 1010 can be used to determine whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area. The first session is used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service, and the first area is the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service. The communication interface 1020 can be used to send first information to the second network element, and the first information is used to update the first session.

[0384] For example, the communication device 1000 is a second network element, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to receive first information from the first network element. The first information is used to update the first session. The first session is used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service. The access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area. The first area is the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service. The processor 1010 can be used to update the first session according to the first information.

[0385] For example, the communication device 1000 is an AMF, and the processor 1010 can be used to determine a first time period, which is the time period during which the third access network device provides a second multicast / broadcast service in a second area, and the second area is the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; the communication interface 1020 can be used to send a sixth message to the third access network device and / or the session management network element, which is used to indicate the first time period.

[0386] For example, the communication device 1000 is an MB-SMF, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to receive sixth information from the access and mobility management network element. The sixth information is used to indicate the first time period, which is the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, and the second area is the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service. The communication interface 1020 can also be used to send tenth information to the user plane network element, which is used to indicate the first time period.

[0387] For example, the communication device 1000 is an MB-UPF, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to receive tenth information from the session management network element. The tenth information is used to indicate the first time period, which is the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, and the second area is the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service. The processor 1010 can be used to activate or release the context related to the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service according to the tenth information.

[0388] For example, the communication device 1000 is a third access network device, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to receive sixth information from the access and mobility management network element. The sixth information is used to indicate the first time period, which is the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, and the second area is the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service. The processor 1010 can be used to activate or release the context of the second multicast / broadcast service according to the sixth information.

[0389] For details on other implementation methods, please refer to the foregoing. Figures 3 to 8The detailed description of the embodiments shown will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the specific processes by which each component performs the corresponding processes described above have been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0390] Figure 10 This is a schematic block diagram of another communication device 1100 according to an embodiment of this application. The communication device 1100 can be a first network element, a second network element, an AMF, an MB-SMF, an MB-UPF, or a third access network device, or it can be a chip or module within the first network element, second network element, AMF, MB-SMF, MB-UPF, or third access network device, used to implement... Figures 3 to 8 The methods involved in the embodiments shown are described in detail in the above-described method embodiments.

[0391] The communication device 1100 includes a transceiver unit 1110. The transceiver unit 1110 will be described exemplarily below.

[0392] The transceiver unit 1110 may include a sending unit and a receiving unit. The sending unit is used to perform the sending action of the communication device, and the receiving unit is used to perform the receiving action of the communication device. For ease of description, the sending unit and the receiving unit are combined into one transceiver unit in this embodiment. This will be explained uniformly here and will not be repeated later. The transceiver unit 1110 can implement the corresponding communication functions. The transceiver unit 1110 may also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication module.

[0393] The communication device 1100 may include a transmitting unit but not a receiving unit. Alternatively, the communication device 1100 may include a receiving unit but not a transmitting unit. Specifically, it depends on whether the above-described scheme performed by the communication device 1100 includes both transmitting and receiving actions.

[0394] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to send first information to the second network element, etc.

[0395] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is used to perform the processing, coordination and other steps involved in the communication device 1100.

[0396] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to receive first information from the first network element, etc.

[0397] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is used to perform the processing, coordination and other steps involved in the communication device 1100.

[0398] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to send sixth information to the third access network device and / or session management network element, etc.

[0399] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is used to perform the processing, coordination and other steps involved in the communication device 1100.

[0400] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to send tenth information to user plane network elements, etc.

[0401] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is used to perform the processing, coordination and other steps involved in the communication device 1100.

[0402] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to receive tenth information, etc., from the session management network element.

[0403] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is used to perform the processing, coordination and other steps involved in the communication device 1100.

[0404] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to receive sixth information from the access and mobility management network element, etc.

[0405] Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is used to perform processing, coordination, and other steps involved in the communication device 1100. For example, the processing unit 1120 may be used to activate or release the context of the second multicast / broadcast service based on the sixth information.

[0406] The above description is for illustrative purposes only. The communication device 1100 will be responsible for executing the relevant methods or steps in the foregoing method embodiments.

[0407] Optionally, the communication device 1100 further includes a storage unit 1130 for storing programs or code for executing the aforementioned methods. Alternatively, the storage unit 1130 can be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 1120 can read the instructions and / or data from the storage unit 1130 to enable the communication device 1100 to implement the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1100 can be used to execute... Figures 3 to 8 The proposed solution is shown.

[0408] For example, the processing unit 1120 can be used to determine whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area, the first session is used to carry the first multicast / broadcast service, and the first area is the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service; the transceiver unit 1110 can be used to send the first information to the second network element, the first information is used to update the first session.

[0409] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 can be used to receive first information from the first network element, the first information being used to update the first session, the first session being used to carry the first multicast / broadcast service, the access network device corresponding to the first session entering or leaving the first area, the first area being the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service; the processing unit 1120 can be used to update the first session according to the first information.

[0410] For example, the processing unit 1120 can be used to determine a first time period, which is the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, and the second area is the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; the transceiver unit 1110 can be used to send sixth information to the third access network device and / or the session management network element, which is used to indicate the first time period.

[0411] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 can be used to receive sixth information from the access and mobility management network element, the sixth information being used to indicate the first time period, the first time period being the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; the transceiver unit 1110 can also be used to send tenth information to the user plane network element, the tenth information being used to indicate the first time period.

[0412] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 can be used to receive tenth information from the session management network element, the tenth information being used to indicate the first time period, the first time period being the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; the processing unit 1120 can be used to activate or release the context related to the third access network device and the second multicast / broadcast service according to the tenth information.

[0413] For example, the transceiver unit 1110 can be used to receive sixth information from the access and mobility management network element, the sixth information being used to indicate the first time period, the first time period being the time period during which the third access network device provides the second multicast / broadcast service in the second area, the second area being the service area of ​​the second multicast / broadcast service; the processing unit 1120 can be used to activate or release the context of the second multicast / broadcast service according to the sixth information.

[0414] For details on other implementation methods, please refer to the foregoing. Figures 3 to 8 The detailed description of the embodiments shown will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the specific processes by which each component performs the corresponding processes described above have been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0415] when Figure 9 When the communication device 1000 is a chip, the communication interface 1020 can be a transceiver, input / output circuit, or communication interface of the chip. The processor 1010 can be a processor integrated on the chip, a microprocessor, or an integrated circuit. In the above method embodiments, the transmitting operation of the first network element or the second network element can be understood as the output of the chip, and the receiving operation of the first network element or the second network element in the above method embodiments can be understood as the input of the chip.

[0416] when Figure 10 When the communication device 1100 is a chip, the transceiver unit 1110 can be a transceiver, input / output circuit, or communication interface of the chip. The processing unit 1120 can be a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. In the above method embodiments, the transmitting operation of the first network element or the second network element can be understood as the output of the chip, and the receiving operation of the first network element or the second network element in the above method embodiments can be understood as the input of the chip.

[0417] This application also provides a communication device, including a processor and a memory, wherein the memory is used to store instructions, and the processor is used to call and run the instructions stored in the memory, causing the communication device to execute the methods of the first network element, second network element, AMF, MB-SMF, MB-UPF, or third access network device in the above embodiments.

[0418] This application also provides a chip, including a processor, for calling and executing instructions stored in a memory, causing a communication device on which the chip is installed to perform the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0419] This application also provides another chip, including: an input interface, an output interface, and a processor, wherein the input interface, the output interface, and the processor are connected via an internal connection path, and the processor is used to execute code in a memory. When the code is executed, the processor is used to perform the methods in the above embodiments. Optionally, the chip further includes a memory for storing computer programs or code.

[0420] This application also provides a processor for coupling with a memory, for performing the methods and functions of the communication device involved in any of the above embodiments, or for performing the methods and functions of the first network element or the second network element involved in any of the above embodiments.

[0421] In another embodiment of this application, a computer program product comprising a computer program or instructions is provided, which, when run, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0422] This application also provides a computer program that, when run, enables the implementation of the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0423] In another embodiment of this application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program that, when run, implements the methods described in the foregoing embodiments.

[0424] This application also provides a communication system, which includes a first network element and a second network element. The first network element and the second network element are respectively used to execute the methods executed by the first network element and the second network element in the foregoing embodiments.

[0425] This application also provides another communication system, which includes an AMF, an MB-SMF, an MB-UPF, and a third access network device. The AMF, MB-SMF, MB-UPF, and third access network device are respectively used to perform the methods performed by the AMF, MB-SMF, MB-UPF, and third access network device in the foregoing embodiments.

[0426] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0427] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0428] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0429] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0430] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0431] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical disks.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a first network element, and the method includes: Determine whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area. The first session is used to carry the first multicast / broadcast service, and the first area is the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service. Send first information to the second network element, the first information being used to update the first session.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The access network device corresponding to the first session includes a first access network device, wherein determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area includes: Based on the second information, it is determined whether the first access network device enters or leaves the first area. The second information is used to indicate the time period during which the first access network device covers the first area, or to indicate the time period during which the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second information includes ephemeris information.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second information is received from the access and mobility management network element or the operation and maintenance management network element.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive third information from the second network element, the third information being used to instruct the access network device corresponding to the first session to enter or leave the first area; wherein, The step of determining whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area includes: Based on the third information, it is determined whether the access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves the first area.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The third information includes a first identifier, and the first session is the session corresponding to the first identifier.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The third information includes first indication information, which is used to indicate whether the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier enters or leaves the first area.

8. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, The access network device corresponding to the first session includes the first access network device and / or the second access network device, wherein the second access network device is different from the first access network device.

9. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, The first network element is a session management network element, and the second network element is an access and mobility management network element; or, the first network element is an access and mobility management network element, and the second network element is a first access network device.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The first network element is a session management network element, the second network element is an access and mobility management network element, and the first information includes fourth information, which is used to indicate the first area.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a fifth message to the second network element. The fifth message is used to update the first session. The fifth message includes the fourth message.

12. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The first information includes second indication information, which is used to indicate that the first session should be updated according to the fourth information.

13. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a second network element, and the method includes: Receive first information from a first network element. The first information is used to update the first session. The first session is used to carry a first multicast / broadcast service. The access network device corresponding to the first session enters or leaves a first area. The first area is the service area of ​​the first multicast / broadcast service. Update the first session based on the first information.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message to the first network element. The second message is used to indicate the time period during which the first access network device covers the first area, or to indicate the time period during which the first access network device provides the first multicast / broadcast service in the first area.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The second information includes ephemeris information.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that, The first network element is a session management network element, and the second network element is an access and mobility management network element.

17. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a third message to the first network element, the third message being used to instruct the access network device corresponding to the first session to enter or leave the first area.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The third information includes a first identifier, and the first session is the session corresponding to the first identifier.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The third information includes first indication information, which is used to indicate whether the access network device corresponding to the session corresponding to the first identifier enters or leaves the first area.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that, The access network device corresponding to the first session includes the first access network device and / or the second access network device, wherein the second access network device is different from the first access network device.

21. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that, The first network element is a session management network element, and the second network element is an access and mobility management network element; or, the first network element is an access and mobility management network element, and the second network element is a first access network device.

22. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 21, characterized in that, The first network element is a session management network element, the second network element is an access and mobility management network element, and the first information includes fourth information, which is used to indicate the first area; wherein, based on the first information, the first session is updated, including... Based on the fourth information, update the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, Before receiving the first information from the first network element, the method further includes: The system receives fifth information from the session management network element, the fifth information being used to update the first session, and the fifth information including the fourth information. Based on the fifth piece of information, update the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area.

24. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The first information includes second indication information, which is used to indicate updating the first session according to the fourth information; wherein, updating the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area according to the fourth information includes: Based on the second instruction information and the fourth information, update the context of the first session of the access network device entering or leaving the first area.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes at least one module or at least one unit, said at least one module or at least one unit being used to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 12, or said at least one module or at least one unit being used to perform the method of any one of claims 13 to 24.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor configured to, by executing a computer program or instructions, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 12 to be implemented, or cause the method of any one of claims 13 to 24 to be implemented.

27. The communication device according to claim 26, characterized in that, The communication device further includes a memory for storing the computer program or the instructions.

28. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions that, when the computer program or instructions are executed, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, or implement the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24.

29. A computer program product, characterized in that, It includes a computer program or instructions that, when run, implement the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, or implement the method as described in any one of claims 13 to 24.

30. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes a first network element and a second network element, wherein the first network element is used to implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 12, and the second network element is used to implement the method of any one of claims 13 to 24.

31. A chip, characterized in that, include: A processor configured to, by executing a computer program or instructions, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 12 to be implemented, or cause the method of any one of claims 13 to 24 to be implemented.

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