Communication method and communication device

Abstract

The communication method is suitable for a first network device deployed in a first satellite, and comprises the following steps: receiving data from a terminal device; under the condition that a communication link between the first network equipment and a first service gateway deployed on the ground is unavailable, data is stored, and the first service gateway is used for data transmission of the terminal equipment; receiving information of a first NTN gateway, wherein a communication link exists between the first NTN gateway and the first service gateway; and sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway according to the information of the first NTN gateway under the condition that a communication link between the first network equipment and the first NTN gateway is available. In a scene of satellite storage and forwarding, a first network device ensures that data of a terminal device can be successfully transmitted from the first network device to a first service gateway through a first NTN gateway when a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available according to information of the first NTN gateway.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Currently, in non-terrestrial network (NTN) systems, terminal devices communicate with satellites via service links, satellites communicate with ground stations via feeder links, and satellites communicate with each other via inter-satellite links (ISL). Ground stations act as interfaces between satellites and the terrestrial network, primarily responsible for transmitting data collected by the satellites to the terrestrial network for use by terminal devices and application servers. Generally, after a terminal device accesses the network through an NTN system, it can utilize service links, inter-satellite links, and feeder links to achieve end-to-end communication between the terminal device and the terrestrial network.

[0003] However, in satellite store-and-forward scenarios, the feeder link between the satellite and the ground network may be discontinuous. For example, some areas may lack ground stations, or the deployed ground stations may be sparse. In such cases, although the satellite can cover the location of the terminal device and receive data from it via the service link, the satellite may be unable to transmit the terminal device's data to the ground station connected to the corresponding ground network via the feeder link, or the inter-satellite link and feeder link. This results in the terminal device's data failing to be transmitted successfully. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and a communication device for successfully transmitting data from a terminal device in a satellite store-and-forward scenario.

[0005] Firstly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a first network device. The first network device may be the first network device itself, or it may be a component of the first network device (e.g., a unit, module, chip, chip system, or circuit), and this application does not limit this. The following description uses a first network device as an example.

[0006] This method is applicable to a first network device deployed on a first satellite, and includes: receiving data from a terminal device; storing the data in the event that a communication link between the first network device and a first service gateway deployed on the ground is unavailable, with the first service gateway used for data transmission by the terminal device; receiving information from a first NTN gateway, wherein a communication link exists between the first NTN gateway and the first service gateway; and, based on the information from the first NTN gateway, sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway when the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available.

[0007] It should be understood that the communication link between the first network device and the first serving gateway can be understood as a data transmission link. The first serving gateway is used to serve the terminal device.

[0008] It should also be understood that there is a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first service gateway, which can be understood as the first NTN gateway being connected to the first service gateway and being able to transmit data.

[0009] It should also be understood that the NTN gateway (e.g., the first NTN gateway) involved in this application is deployed on the ground. The NTN gateway may also be referred to as a gateway station, ground station, network equipment, communication equipment, communication device or other names. This application does not limit the name of the NTN gateway.

[0010] According to the method provided in this application, there is a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first service gateway, and the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available when the first network device transmits data of the terminal device, so that the data of the terminal device can be successfully transmitted from the first network device to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates that the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available; the step of sending the stored data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway when the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available, based on the information from the first NTN gateway, includes: sending the stored data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway upon triggering the information from the first NTN gateway.

[0012] It should be understood that the information of the first NTN gateway can be used to trigger the first network device to send data of the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0013] It should also be understood that the information from the first NTN gateway indicates that the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available, and the first network device responds to the information from the first NTN gateway by sending data from the terminal device to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0014] Based on the above technical solution, when triggered by the information from the first NTN gateway, the first network device sends data from the terminal device to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway, which can reduce the processing complexity of the first network device.

[0015] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates that at a first moment, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at the first moment; the step of sending the stored data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway when the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is currently available, based on the information of the first NTN gateway, includes: sending the stored data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway at the first moment.

[0016] It should be understood that the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the available time (e.g., the first moment) of the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device. The first moment does not refer to a single moment; it can be multiple discrete moments or consecutive moments, and this application does not limit this.

[0017] Based on the above technical solution, the first network device can send the stored terminal device data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway at the first moment indicated by the information from the first NTN gateway, thus enabling timely transmission of terminal device data.

[0018] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations, determining whether the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is currently available based on the information of the first NTN gateway includes: determining whether the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway based on the information of the first NTN gateway; and sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway when the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is currently available includes: sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway when the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0019] It should be understood that whether the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway can be interpreted as whether the first satellite currently covers the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0020] Based on the above technical solution, the first network device determines whether the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available based on the relationship between the location of the first NTN gateway and the coverage of the first satellite.

[0021] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway, and the step of sending the stored data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway, based on the information of the first NTN gateway and provided that the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is currently available, includes:

[0022] If the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway, the stored data is sent to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway, wherein the first list includes the identifier of at least one NTN gateway and a communication link between the at least one NTN gateway and the first network device is available.

[0023] It should be understood that this first list can be determined by the first network device itself.

[0024] Based on the above technical solution, the first network device determines whether to transmit stored data through the first NTN gateway based on the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0025] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations, before receiving information from the first NTN gateway, the method further includes: sending second information, the second information including information from the first service gateway.

[0026] It should be understood that the information of the first service gateway includes the address information of the first service gateway.

[0027] Optionally, the information of the first service gateway may also include the tunnel endpoint identification information of the first service gateway.

[0028] In conjunction with the first aspect, in some possible implementations, before receiving information from the first NTN gateway, the method further includes: sending service request information from the terminal device, the service request information being used to request network access.

[0029] It should be understood that the service request information may include the identification information of the terminal device.

[0030] Secondly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a second network device. The second network device can be the second network device itself, or it can be a component of the second network device (e.g., a unit, module, chip, chip system, or circuit), and this application does not limit this. The following example uses a second network device for illustration.

[0031] The method is applicable to a second network device and includes: receiving second information, the second information including information about a first service gateway deployed on the ground, the first service gateway being used for data transmission of a terminal device; determining a first NTN gateway based on network topology information, the network topology information indicating at least one NTN gateway having a communication link with the first service gateway, the at least one NTN gateway including the first NTN gateway; and sending information about the first NTN gateway, the information about the first NTN gateway being used for data transmission of the terminal device between the first network device and the first NTN gateway.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the network topology information includes topology information between the NTN gateway and the serving gateway, wherein the NTN gateway includes the first NTN gateway and the serving gateway includes the first serving gateway.

[0033] Optionally, the network topology information may also include topology information between NTN gateways and / or topology information between serving gateways.

[0034] It should be understood that the second network device can be deployed on a second satellite or on the ground. The first network device can be deployed on a first satellite. When the second network device is deployed on a second satellite, the first and second satellites can be the same satellite or different satellites.

[0035] Based on the above technical solution, the second network device receives the second information, determines the NTN gateway (e.g., the first NTN gateway) that has a communication link with the first service gateway according to the network topology information, and sends the information of the first NTN gateway, which helps the terminal device's data to be successfully transmitted to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0036] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, sending the information of the first NTN gateway includes: sending the information of the first NTN gateway when a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, wherein the information of the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data of the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0037] Based on the above technical solution, when the first NTN gateway has a communication link with both the first service gateway and the first network device, the second network device can trigger the first network device to transmit terminal device data through the first NTN gateway by means of information from the first NTN gateway, which helps to reduce the processing complexity of the first network device.

[0038] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, sending information about the first NTN gateway when the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available includes: sending information about the first NTN gateway when the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, wherein the first network device is deployed on the first satellite.

[0039] Based on the above technical solution, when the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, the second network device sends information about the first NTN gateway to trigger the first network device to transmit the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway. This ensures that when the terminal device transmits data from the first network device to the first NTN gateway, the first NTN gateway is within the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, thereby improving the success rate of data transmission.

[0040] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates that at a first moment, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at that first moment.

[0041] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, the method further includes: determining, based on information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, the first network device being deployed on the first satellite at the first moment.

[0042] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0043] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0044] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, the second network device is deployed on a second satellite, and the method further includes receiving the network topology information from a third network device deployed on the ground.

[0045] It should be understood that when the second network device is deployed on the second satellite, the network topology information of the second network device can be obtained from the third network device deployed on the ground.

[0046] In one possible implementation, after receiving network topology information from the third network device, the second network device stores the network topology information locally.

[0047] As an example, if a third network device is configured to periodically send network topology information to a second network device, then the second network device can periodically receive network topology information from the third network device.

[0048] As another example, a third network device determines that the network topology information has changed and sends the updated network topology information to a second network device. In the event of a change in network topology information, the second network device receives the network topology information from the third network device. In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, before receiving the network topology information from the third network device deployed on the ground, the method further includes sending a request message for obtaining the network topology information.

[0049] In conjunction with the second aspect, in some possible implementations, the method further includes: receiving information from the third network device indicating the coverage area of ​​the first satellite.

[0050] It should be understood that the information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite in this application may include ephemeris information and / or first satellite coverage availability information. The first satellite coverage availability information includes a mapping relationship between the first satellite's coverage area and time. The second network device can determine the coverage area of ​​the first satellite at a certain moment (e.g., the current moment) based on the mapping relationship between time and the first satellite's coverage area.

[0051] Thirdly, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a fourth network device. This fourth network device can be the fourth network device itself, or it can be a component of the fourth network device (e.g., a unit, module, chip, chip system, or circuit), and this application does not limit this. The following example uses a fourth network device for illustration.

[0052] This method is applicable to a fourth network device deployed on a third satellite, comprising: sending second information, the second information including information of a first service gateway deployed on the ground, the first service gateway being used for data transmission of the terminal device; receiving third information, the third information indicating information of an NTN gateway having a communication link with the first service gateway, the NTN gateway including a first NTN gateway; and sending information of the first NTN gateway to a first network device, the information of the first NTN gateway being used for data transmission of the terminal device between the first network device and the first NTN gateway.

[0053] Based on the above technical solution, the fourth network device receives the third information and, based on the NTN gateway indicated by the third information, sends information about the first NTN gateway in the NTN gateway. Since there is a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first service gateway used for data transmission from the terminal device, in a satellite store-and-forward scenario, the first NTN gateway can transmit the terminal device's data to the first service gateway, ensuring the normal transmission of the terminal device's data.

[0054] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device includes: sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device when the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, wherein the information of the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit the data of the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0055] Based on the above technical solution, the fourth network device determines that the first NTN gateway has a communication link with both the first service gateway and the first network device. By using the information of the first NTN gateway, the first network device is triggered to transmit data of the terminal device through the first NTN gateway, thus avoiding the first network device from determining the NTN gateway with which it has an available communication link, thereby reducing the processing complexity of the first network device.

[0056] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the third information is used to indicate the location of the first NTN gateway. Sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device when a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available includes: sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device when the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, wherein the first network device is deployed on the first satellite.

[0057] Based on the above technical solution, the fourth network device determines whether the first NTN gateway is within the coverage area of ​​the first satellite. If the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, it determines that the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available. The fourth network device sends information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device, triggering the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway, thereby reducing the processing complexity of the first network device.

[0058] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the third information is used to indicate that at a first moment, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at the first moment, and the step of sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device when the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available includes: sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device at the first moment.

[0059] Based on the above technical solution, the third information indicates the first moment, and the fourth network device sends the information of the first NTN gateway at the first moment to trigger the first network device to transmit the data of the terminal device through the first NTN gateway, thereby reducing the processing complexity of the first network device.

[0060] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the third information is used to indicate the identifier of the first NTN gateway, and the step of sending the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device when the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available includes:

[0061] If the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway, the information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device.

[0062] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0063] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates that at a first moment, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at that first moment.

[0064] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the method further includes: determining, based on information indicating the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, that the first moment is the moment when the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the NTN gateway, wherein the first network device is deployed on the first satellite.

[0065] In conjunction with the third aspect, in some possible implementations, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0066] Regarding the third aspect, please refer to the descriptions of the first and second aspects, such as the descriptions of the various implementation methods and corresponding technical effects in the first and second aspects, which will not be repeated here.

[0067] Fourthly, a communication apparatus is provided for performing the method in any of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects described above. Specifically, the apparatus may include units and / or modules for performing the method in any of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects, such as processing units and / or communication units.

[0068] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a first network device, a second network device, or a fourth network device). When the device is a communication device, the communication unit can be a transceiver or an input / output interface; the processing unit can be at least one processor. Optionally, the transceiver can be a transceiver circuit. Optionally, the input / output interface can be an input / output circuit.

[0069] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for a communication device (such as a first network device, a second network device, or a fourth network device). When the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for a communication device, the communication unit may be an input / output interface, interface circuit, output circuit, input circuit, pin, or related circuit on the chip, chip system, or circuit; the processing unit may be at least one processor, processing circuit, or logic circuit.

[0070] Fifthly, a communication apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor for executing a computer program or instructions stored in a memory to perform the method in any of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects described above. Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a memory for storing the computer program or instructions. Optionally, the apparatus further comprises a communication interface through which the processor reads the computer program or instructions from the memory.

[0071] In one implementation, the device is a communication device (such as a first network device, a second network device, or a fourth network device).

[0072] In another implementation, the device is a chip, chip system, or circuit for communication devices (such as a first network device, a second network device, or a fourth network device).

[0073] Sixthly, a processor is provided for executing the methods provided in the first to third aspects described above.

[0074] Unless otherwise specified, or if it does not contradict its actual function or internal logic in the relevant description, the transmission and acquisition / reception operations involved in the processor can be understood as processor output and reception, input and other operations, or as transmission and reception operations performed by radio frequency circuits and antennas. This application does not limit them in this regard.

[0075] Optionally, the device further includes: a memory for storing a program; correspondingly, at least one processor for executing the computer program or instructions in the memory.

[0076] Optionally, the device also includes a communication interface. The communication interface is coupled to the processor and can be used to input information to the processor or output information from the processor.

[0077] A seventh aspect provides a computer-readable storage medium storing program code for execution by a device, the program code including methods for performing any of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0078] Eighthly, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method in any one of the possible implementations of the first to third aspects described above.

[0079] Ninth aspect, a chip is provided, the chip including a processor and a communication interface, the processor reading instructions from a memory through the communication interface and executing the method provided by any of the above-described implementations of any of the first to third aspects.

[0080] Optionally, as one implementation, the chip also includes a memory storing computer programs or instructions, and a processor for executing the computer programs or instructions in the memory. When the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is used to perform the method provided by any of the above implementations of any of the first to third aspects.

[0081] In a tenth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method provided by any of the above-described implementations of the first to third aspects.

[0082] Eleventhly, a communication system is provided, including the aforementioned first network device and second network device.

[0083] Optionally, the communication system may also include the aforementioned fourth network device. Attached Figure Description

[0084] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0085] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another network architecture applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0086] Figure 3 The diagram below is a schematic diagram of another network architecture applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0087] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0088] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method 500 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0089] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another communication method 600 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0090] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device 700 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0091] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device 800 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0092] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a chip system 900 provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0093] The technical solutions in this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] The technical solution provided in this application can be applied to NTN systems such as inter-satellite communication and satellite communication. As an example, a satellite communication system includes a satellite base station and terminal equipment. The satellite base station provides communication services to the terminal equipment. The satellite can refer to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), hot air balloons, low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, medium-Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, high-Earth orbit (HEO) satellites, etc. The satellite can also refer to non-terrestrial base stations or non-terrestrial equipment.

[0095] The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to various communication systems, such as 5th generation (5G) or new radio (NR) systems, long term evolution (LTE) systems, etc. The technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to future communication systems. Furthermore, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to 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. V2X can include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication, vehicle-to-pedestrian (V2P) communication, vehicle-to-network (V2N) communication, or future communication systems, etc.

[0096] In a communication system, a device can send signals to or receive signals from another device. These signals can include information, signaling, or data. The term "device" can also be replaced by an entity, network entity, network element, gateway, communication equipment, communication module, node, communication node, etc.

[0097] Below, in conjunction with Figures 1 to 3 This paper introduces the network architecture and scenarios applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0098] See Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture applicable to embodiments of this application.

[0099] like Figure 1As shown, this network architecture uses NTN as an example. As an example, this network architecture can include: a terrestrial gateway (GW), a satellite, terminal equipment, and a ground network. A terrestrial gateway can also be called a ground station. A ground station can provide functions similar to a gateway in a terrestrial communication system. For example, a ground station can establish a connection with terminal equipment via a satellite, transmitting data from the terminal equipment on the satellite to the ground network for use by application servers. Ground stations also have functions such as satellite monitoring, fault diagnosis, packet switching of communication data, and interface protocol conversion. As an example, the link between the ground station and the satellite is called a feeder link, and the link between the satellite and the terminal equipment is called a service link.

[0100] Figure 1 The terrestrial network may include core network equipment in the fourth generation (4G) communication system, or core network equipment in the fifth generation (5G) communication system, or equipment in future communication systems that has the core network equipment function of the 5G or 4G communication system. This application embodiment does not limit this, and the following description takes the terrestrial network including core network equipment in the 4G communication system as an example.

[0101] See Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of another network architecture according to an embodiment of this application.

[0102] like Figure 2 As shown, this network architecture mainly involves terminal equipment, the evolved universal terrestrial radio access network (E-UTRAN) for 4G, the mobility management entity (MME), the serving gateway (S-GW), and the packet data network gateway (P-GW) in the 4G core network equipment, etc.

[0103] It should be understood that Figure 2 E-UTRAN and MME can be deployed in Figure 1 The S-GW and P-GW are deployed on the satellites shown, or separately on different satellites. Figure 1 In the ground network.

[0104] The Mobile Equipment Manager (MME) is a core network element in the 4G core network. As its name suggests, the MME is primarily responsible for mobility management and control, including terminal device authentication, paging, location updates, and handover. Generally, terminal devices need to periodically report their location to the MME. If a terminal device wants to access the network for data transmission, it must first be authenticated and authorized by the MME. If a terminal device moves to the coverage area of ​​another base station, it also needs to coordinate base station handover matters through the MME.

[0105] The S-GW has functions such as local mobility anchoring for inter-base station handover, mobility anchoring for inter-3GPP mobility, packet routing and forwarding, transport-level packet marking, or considering inter-operator billing.

[0106] The P-GW is used for the connection between the UE and the external packet data network (PDN). A terminal device can connect to multiple PDN gateways simultaneously to access multiple packet data networks. The PDN gateway has functions such as enforcing policies, filtering packets for each user, providing accounting support, lawful interception, and packet blocking.

[0107] It should be understood that, such as Figure 2 As shown, assuming the terminal device sends data to the network, the data needs to be transmitted through the S-GW to the P-GW, and then by the P-SW to the operator's IP service.

[0108] See Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another network architecture applicable to the embodiments of this application.

[0109] like Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the transmission of data from terminal equipment in a scenario where the feed link of a satellite (or regenerated satellite) payload based on a base station deployment is discontinuous. Figure 3 (1) is a schematic diagram of a scenario where there is no inter-satellite link. Figure 3 (2) is a schematic diagram of a scenario where inter-satellite links exist.

[0110] like Figure 3 As shown in (1), when the current coverage area of ​​the regenerating satellite includes terminal devices, for example... Figure 3The current coverage area of ​​the regenerator satellite includes the terminal equipment, but does not include the ground station; conversely, when the current coverage area of ​​the regenerator satellite includes the ground station, it does not include the terminal equipment. Therefore, when the service link between the regenerator satellite and the terminal equipment is available, the power supply link between the regenerator satellite and the ground station is unavailable; conversely, when the power supply link between the regenerator satellite and the ground station is available, the service link between the regenerator satellite and the terminal equipment is unavailable.

[0111] like Figure 3 As shown in (2), when the current coverage area of ​​the regenerating satellite includes the terminal equipment, but does not include the ground station, the regenerating satellite can connect to other satellites via inter-satellite links. The current coverage area of ​​the other satellites connected via inter-satellite links still does not include the ground station. When the current coverage area of ​​the regenerating satellite includes the ground station, but does not include the terminal equipment, the regenerating satellite can connect to other satellites via inter-satellite links. The current coverage area of ​​the other satellites connected via inter-satellite links still does not include the terminal equipment. It can be seen that when the service link between the regenerating satellite and the terminal equipment is available, the regenerating satellite connects to other satellites via inter-satellite links, but the feed link between the other satellites and the ground station is still unavailable. When the feed link between the regenerating satellite and the ground station is available, the regenerating satellite connects to other satellites via inter-satellite links, but the service link between the other satellites and the terminal equipment is still unavailable.

[0112] The above Figures 1 to 3 This is merely an illustration, and the system architecture and scenarios applicable to the embodiments of this application are not limited thereto.

[0113] In satellite store-and-forward scenarios, there may be limitations due to discontinuous feeder links. For example, while a satellite may be able to connect to a terminal device via a service link, it may be unable to connect to the terrestrial network providing services to that terminal device via a feeder link, or a combination of an inter-satellite link and a feeder link. After receiving data from the terminal device, the satellite cannot forward the data to the corresponding terrestrial gateway. The terrestrial gateway, unable to receive the data, cannot transmit it to the terrestrial network providing services, resulting in unsuccessful data transmission.

[0114] It should be understood that, in view of the above limitations, communication services can be provided to terminal devices through satellite store-and-forward operations: for uplink transmission, "store" refers to storing uplink signaling / data from the terminal device on the satellite, and "forward" refers to forwarding the stored uplink signaling / data to the terrestrial network; for downlink transmission, "store" refers to storing downlink signaling / data from the terrestrial network on the satellite, and "forward" refers to forwarding the stored downlink signaling / data to the terminal device.

[0115] In view of this, this application proposes a solution that enables normal transmission of user data in satellite store-and-forward scenarios.

[0116] The specific solution of this application will now be described. Before describing the specific solution of this application, the following points should be noted.

[0117] (1) In this application, “instruction” may include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information for the purpose of instructing A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly instructs A, or indirectly instructs A.

[0118] In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementations, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index. It can also indirectly indicate the information to be instructed by indicating other information, where there is a relationship between the other information and the information to be instructed. It can also indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts are known or pre-agreed upon. For example, the instruction of specific information can be achieved by using a pre-agreed (e.g., protocol-defined) arrangement of various pieces of information, thereby reducing instruction overhead to some extent. Furthermore, the information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information pieces, and the sending period and / or timing of these sub-information pieces can be the same or different.

[0119] (2) In this application, "send" and "receive" indicate the direction of signal transmission. For example, "send information to XX" can be understood as the destination of the information being XX, which may include direct transmission via the air interface or indirect transmission via the air interface by other units or modules. "Receive information from YY" can be understood as the source of the information being YY, which may include direct reception from YY via the air interface or indirect reception from YY via the air interface by other units or modules. "Send" can also be understood as the "output" of the chip interface, and "receive" can also be understood as the "input" of the chip interface. In other words, sending and receiving can occur between devices, such as between network devices and terminal devices, or within a device, such as between components, modules, chips, software modules, or hardware modules within the device via a bus, wiring, or interface.

[0120] (3) In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terms and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0121] (4) In this application, "first" and "second" are used for descriptive convenience only to distinguish objects and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. They are not used to describe the order or sequence of features. It should be understood that the objects described in this way can be interchanged where appropriate so as to describe solutions other than those in the embodiments of this application.

[0122] The methods provided by the embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The embodiments provided by this application can be applied to the above-described embodiments. Figures 1 to 3 The architecture shown is not limited.

[0123] It should be understood that the embodiments shown below do not particularly limit the specific structure of the execution subject of the method provided in the embodiments of this application. As long as a program containing the code of the method provided in the embodiments of this application can be run to communicate according to the method provided in the embodiments of this application, for example, the execution subject of the method provided in the embodiments of this application can be a terminal device, a first network device, a second network device, or a fourth network device, or a functional module in the terminal device, the first network device, the second network device, or the fourth network device capable of calling and executing a program. Hereinafter, without loss of generality, the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in detail using the interaction between a terminal device, a first network device, a second network device, or a fourth network device as an example.

[0124] See Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0125] It should be understood that Figure 4 The first network device involved can be one of the above. Figure 1 The satellite-based base station deployed in China, or it could be one of the above. Figure 2 E-UTRAN in, or it could be the above. Figure 3 The base station is deployed on the regenerating satellite. If the second network device is deployed on the ground, that second network device can be the one described above. Figure 1 The ground station shown. The terminal equipment can be the one described above. Figures 1 to 3 The terminal device shown. The first service gateway can be... Figure 2 The S-GW shown is illustrated.

[0126] Figure 4 The method 400 shown may include the following steps.

[0127] 401, The terminal device sends data to the first network device, and correspondingly, the first network device receives data from the terminal device.

[0128] The first network device is deployed on the first satellite. When a service link between the first satellite and the terminal device is available, the terminal device sends data to the first network device.

[0129] In one possible implementation, the first network device receives data from the terminal device, and if the communication link between the first network device and the first service gateway for data transmission of the terminal device is unavailable, the first network device stores the terminal device's data locally.

[0130] It should be understood that the first service gateway is deployed on the ground.

[0131] It should also be understood that when the first network device receives data from the terminal device, it can determine whether the communication link between the first network device and the first serving gateway is available based on information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite. For example, if the location of the first serving gateway is not within the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, the communication link between the first network device and the first serving gateway is unavailable, or it can be understood that the power supply link between the first network device and the first serving gateway is disconnected.

[0132] 402, the first network device sends second information to the second network device, and correspondingly, the second network device receives the second information from the first network device.

[0133] It should be understood that the first network device sends second information to the second network device. This second information includes information about the first serving gateway. The information about the first serving gateway includes its identification information and / or its address information.

[0134] Optionally, the information of the first service gateway may also include the tunnel endpoint identifier (TEID) corresponding to the first service gateway. The TEID of the first service gateway is used to identify the tunnel through which the data of the terminal device is transmitted.

[0135] It should also be understood that before sending the second information to the second network device, the first network device determines the information of the first serving gateway. The information of the first serving gateway may be determined based on S1 application protocol (S1-AP) messages.

[0136] For example, after receiving data from the terminal device, the first network device determines the information of the first serving gateway used to transmit the data from the terminal device. The information of the serving gateway corresponding to the terminal device can be carried in the initial context setup request within the S1-AP message.

[0137] It should be understood that Figure 4 The method shown can be executed after the terminal device has completed the service request process. For example, Figure 4 The method described involves a terminal device sending a service request to a first network device, which then forwards the request to a fourth network device. Upon receiving the service request, the fourth network device authenticates and authorizes the terminal device. If authentication is successful, the fourth network device sends information about the service gateway (e.g., the first service gateway) assigned to the terminal device to the first network device, which is then used by the first network device to transmit the terminal device's data to the corresponding service gateway. For example, the fourth network device can send the first service gateway information to the first network device via an S1-AP message.

[0138] It should be understood that the second network device can be deployed on a second satellite or on the ground. The second satellite can be the same satellite as the first satellite or a different satellite.

[0139] 403, the second network device sends information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device, and correspondingly, the first network device receives information about the first NTN gateway from the second network device.

[0140] For example, after receiving the second information from the first network device, the second network device determines the first NTN gateway based on the network topology information and sends information about the first NTN gateway. The network topology information indicates at least one NTN gateway that has a communication link with the first serving gateway, and this at least one NTN gateway includes the first NTN gateway.

[0141] It should be understood that the network topology information may include the topology information between the at least one NTN gateway and the first serving gateway.

[0142] For example, network topology information includes a mapping relationship between the identifier of at least one NTN gateway and the address or identifier of the first serving gateway. Assuming the second information includes the address information of the first serving gateway, the second network device determines at least one NTN gateway corresponding to the first serving gateway based on the address indicated by the address information of the first serving gateway and the mapping relationship in the network topology information.

[0143] Optionally, the network topology information may also include topology information between NTN gateways and / or topology information between serving gateways, wherein the NTN gateway includes a first NTN gateway and the serving gateway includes a first serving gateway.

[0144] It should be understood that it is assumed the second network device is deployed on the second satellite. This network topology information may be network topology information stored locally by the second network device, or it may be obtained by the second network device after receiving the second information from other network devices (e.g., a third network device).

[0145] In one possible implementation, the information from the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0146] It should be understood that after receiving the second information from the first network device, the second network device determines the first NTN gateway based on the network topology information. If a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, the second network device sends information about the first NTN gateway. This information is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0147] For example, after receiving the second information from the first network device, the second network device determines the first NTN gateway based on the network topology information. If the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, the second network device sends information about the first NTN gateway. This information about the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0148] It should be understood that the coverage area of ​​the first satellite can be determined based on information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite. This information can be obtained by the second network device from other network devices (e.g., a third network device).

[0149] In another possible implementation, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates a first moment. The communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at that first moment.

[0150] For example, after receiving the second information from the first network device, the second network device determines the first NTN gateway based on the network topology information, and sends the available time of the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device (e.g., the first time) through the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device.

[0151] It should be understood that the first moment does not refer to a single moment; the first moment can be multiple discrete moments or consecutive moments, and this application does not limit this.

[0152] It should also be understood that the second network device can determine the first moment based on information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite. For example, the second network device can determine the movement trajectory of the coverage area of ​​the first satellite based on the information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, thereby determining at which specific moments the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway. When the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available. Therefore, the moment when the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway is the first moment, and at the first moment, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available. The second network device can indicate the first moment using information from the first NTN gateway.

[0153] In another possible implementation, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0154] For example, after receiving the second information from the first network device, the second network device determines the first NTN gateway based on the network topology information, and sends the location of the first NTN gateway to the first network device through the information of the first NTN gateway.

[0155] In another possible implementation, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0156] For example, after receiving the second information from the first network device, the second network device determines the first NTN gateway based on the network topology information, and sends the identifier of the first NTN gateway to the first network device through the information of the first NTN gateway.

[0157] 404, The first network device sends data from the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0158] For example, a first network device receives information from a first NTN gateway of a second network device. Based on the information from the first NTN gateway, and if the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, the first network device sends the terminal device's data to the sending first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0159] It should be understood that the first service gateway, upon receiving data from the terminal device, can also send the data from the terminal device to the operator's IP service.

[0160] In one possible implementation, the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway of the second network device, and transmits the terminal device's data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway based on the information from the first NTN gateway.

[0161] The information of the first NTN gateway is used to trigger (or instruct) the first network device to transmit terminal device data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0162] For example, a first network device receives information from a first NTN gateway of a second network device. This information from the first NTN gateway triggers the first network device to transmit data from a terminal device through the first NTN gateway. Triggered by this information from the first NTN gateway, or in response to it, the first network device sends the terminal device's data to a first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0163] In another possible implementation, the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway of the second network device and determines whether the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available based on the information from the first NTN gateway. If the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available, the first network device transmits the terminal device's data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0164] As an example, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates the first moment. The communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at the first moment.

[0165] It should be understood that the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway and, at the first moment indicated by the information from the first NTN gateway, transmits data of the terminal device to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0166] As another example, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0167] It should be understood that when the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway, it determines, based on the location of the first NTN gateway indicated by the information, whether the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway; that is, whether the first satellite currently covers the first NTN gateway. If the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, or if the first satellite currently covers the first NTN gateway, it indicates that the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is currently available, and the first network device transmits data from the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0168] As another example, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0169] It should be understood that the first network device determines whether the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway based on the identifier of the first NTN gateway indicated by the information of the first NTN gateway. The first list includes the identifier of at least one NTN gateway, and the communication link between the at least one NTN gateway and the first network device is available. If the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway, it indicates that the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, and the first network device transmits data from the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0170] In combination with the above Figure 4 The method shown involves a first network device sending second information, including information about a first serving gateway, to a second network device. The second network device then determines a first NTN gateway with which a communication link exists between it and the first serving gateway based on network topology information, and sends information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device. Upon receiving the first NTN gateway, the first network device can, based on the information from the first NTN gateway or by determining that an available communication link exists between the first NTN gateway and the first network device, send data from the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway, ensuring normal data transmission from the terminal device.

[0171] See Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a communication method 500 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 5 The method 500 shown may include the following steps.

[0172] It should be understood that Figure 5 The first network device involved can be one of the above. Figure 1 The satellite-based base station deployed in China, or it could be one of the above. Figure 2 E-UTRAN in, or it could be the above. Figure 3 A base station deployed on a regenerating satellite. In the case where the second network device is deployed on the ground, this second network device can be... Figure 1 The ground station shown. The terminal equipment can be the one described above. Figures 1 to 3 The terminal device shown. The first service gateway can be... Figure 2 The S-GW shown is a fourth network device, which can be the one described above. Figure 2 MME in.

[0173] 501, the terminal device sends a service request message.

[0174] For example, a terminal device sends a service request to a first network device, and the first network device receives the service request from the terminal device. After receiving the service request, the first network device can forward it to a fourth network device. The fourth network device then receives the service request from the terminal device. This service request is used to request network access.

[0175] Optionally, the service request information may include the identification information of the terminal device.

[0176] It should be understood that the first network device is deployed on the first satellite, and the fourth network device is deployed on the third satellite. The first satellite and the third satellite can be the same satellite or different satellites. Assuming that the first satellite and the third satellite are different satellites, the first network device and the fourth network device can transmit the service request information of the terminal device through the inter-satellite link between the first satellite and the third satellite.

[0177] It should also be understood that the service request information from the terminal device in step 501 can trigger the fourth network device to send second information to the second network device (as shown in step 502 below), or, during the terminal device's request to join the network, after the fourth network device configures the service gateway (e.g., the first service gateway) corresponding to the terminal device, the fourth network device can send the second information to the second network device (as shown in step 502 below). Therefore, step 501 is an optional step.

[0178] 502, the fourth network device sends the second information to the second network device, and correspondingly, the second network device receives the second information from the fourth network device.

[0179] For example, after receiving a service request from a terminal device, the fourth network device determines the first service gateway corresponding to the terminal device and sends second information to the second network device. This second information includes information about the first service gateway, which is used for data transmission by the terminal device.

[0180] It should be understood that Figure 5 The second information is related to the above. Figure 4 The second piece of information in step 402 is similar; please refer to the above for details. Figure 4 Detailed introduction in the text.

[0181] For example, after receiving a service request from a terminal device, the fourth network device can authenticate and authorize the terminal device. If the authentication and authorization are successful, the fourth network device sends the information of the service gateway (e.g., the first service gateway) corresponding to the terminal device to the second network device via second information. This information can be used by the second network device to determine the NTN gateway with which a communication link exists between it and the first service gateway.

[0182] It should be understood that the second network device can be deployed on a second satellite or on the ground. Assuming the second satellite is deployed on another satellite, this second satellite can be the same satellite as the first satellite deploying the first network device, and the third satellite deploying the fourth network device, or they can be different satellites. The first network device and / or the fourth network device can be deployed on the same satellite as the second network device, or on a different satellite.

[0183] 503, the fourth network device receives the third information from the second network device, and accordingly, the second network device sends the third information to the fourth network device.

[0184] For example, after receiving the second information from the fourth network device, the second network device determines the third information based on the network topology information and sends the third information to the fourth network device. The third information indicates information about a ground-based NTN gateway that has a communication link with the first service gateway, and this NTN gateway includes the first NTN gateway.

[0185] In one possible implementation, this third information is also used to indicate the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0186] In another possible implementation, the third information is also used to indicate a first moment, which is the moment when the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available.

[0187] In another possible implementation, this third information is also used to indicate the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0188] Alternatively, it can be understood that the third information may include information for indicating the identifier of the first NTN gateway, information for indicating the location of the first NTN gateway, or information for indicating the first moment.

[0189] It should be understood that the second network device determines the third information based on the network topology information. This network topology information may be stored locally by the second network device or obtained by requesting it from the third network device. For detailed information, please refer to the above. Figure 6 The specific explanation is as follows.

[0190] 504, the fourth network device sends information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device, and correspondingly, the first network device receives information about the first NTN gateway from the fourth network device.

[0191] For example, the fourth network device receives the third information from the second network device and sends the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device.

[0192] In one possible implementation, the information from the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0193] It should be understood that after receiving the third information from the second network device, the fourth network device, if a usable communication link exists between the first NTN gateway and the first network device, sends the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device. This information of the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0194] For example, the fourth network device receives third information from the second network device, which indicates the location of the first NTN gateway. Based on the location of the first NTN gateway and information indicating the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, the fourth network device determines whether the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway. If the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, the fourth network device sends the information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device. This information about the first NTN gateway triggers the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0195] It should be understood that the coverage area of ​​the first satellite may be determined by the fourth network device based on information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite. This information may be stored locally by the fourth network device or obtained from other network devices (such as the first or second network device).

[0196] For example, the fourth network device receives third information from the second network device, which indicates a first moment. At the first moment, the fourth network device sends information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device. This information about the first NTN gateway triggers the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0197] For example, the fourth network device receives third information from the second network device, the third information indicating the identifier of the first NTN gateway. The fourth network device determines whether the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway based on the identifier of the first NTN. If the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway, the fourth network device sends the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device. This information of the first NTN gateway is used to trigger the first network device to transmit data from the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

[0198] It should be understood that this first list may be obtained by the fourth network device from the first network device.

[0199] In another possible implementation, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates a first moment. The communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at that first moment.

[0200] For example, a fourth network device receives third information from a second network device, and the fourth network device sends information about a first NTN gateway to the first network device, the information about the first NTN gateway indicating a first moment.

[0201] The first moment indicated by the information from the first NTN gateway may be the first moment indicated by the third information, or it may be determined by the fourth network device based on information used to indicate the coverage of the first satellite.

[0202] It should be understood that the fourth network device can determine the first moment based on information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite. For example, the fourth network device can determine the movement trajectory of the coverage area of ​​the first satellite based on the information used to indicate the coverage area of ​​the first satellite, thereby determining at which moments the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway. When the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available. Therefore, the moment when the coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway is the first moment, and at the first moment, the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available. The fourth network device can indicate the first moment using information from the first NTN gateway.

[0203] In another possible implementation, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0204] It should be understood that the fourth network device receives third information from the second network device, which indicates the location of the first NTN gateway. The fourth network device then transmits the location of the first NTN gateway from the third information to the first network device via information from the first NTN gateway.

[0205] In another possible implementation, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0206] It should be understood that the fourth network device receives third information from the second network device, which indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway. The fourth network device then transmits the identifier of the first NTN gateway from the third information to the first network device through the information of the first NTN gateway.

[0207] It should be understood that there is no logical relationship between the first network device receiving information from the first NTN gateway and the first network device receiving data from the terminal device in step 504. For example, step 504 can be executed before or after the first network device receives data from the terminal device.

[0208] 505, The first network device sends data from the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0209] For example, a first network device receives information from a first NTN gateway of a fourth network device. Based on the information from the first NTN gateway, the first network device sends data from the terminal device to the first NTN gateway if the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available.

[0210] In one possible implementation, the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway of the fourth network device, and transmits the terminal device's data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway based on the information from the first NTN gateway.

[0211] The information from the first NTN gateway is used to trigger (or instruct) the first network device.

[0212] For example, a first network device receives information from a first NTN gateway of a fourth network device. This information triggers the first network device to transmit data from a terminal device through the first NTN gateway. Triggered by this information, the first network device sends the terminal device's data to a first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway. Alternatively, it can be understood that the first network device, in response to the information from the first NTN gateway, sends the terminal device's data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0213] In another possible implementation, the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway of the fourth network device and determines whether the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available based on the information from the first NTN gateway. If the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available, the first network device transmits the terminal device's data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0214] As an example, the information from the first NTN gateway indicates the first moment. The communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at the first moment.

[0215] It should be understood that the first network device receives information from the first NTN gateway and, at the first moment indicated by the information from the first NTN gateway, transmits data of the terminal device to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0216] As another example, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the location of the first NTN gateway.

[0217] It should be understood that upon receiving information from the first NTN gateway, the first network device determines, based on the location of the first NTN gateway indicated by the information, whether the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, or whether the first satellite currently covers the first NTN gateway. If the current coverage area of ​​the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, or if the first satellite currently covers the first NTN gateway, it indicates that the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is currently available, and the first network device transmits terminal device data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0218] As another example, the information of the first NTN gateway indicates the identifier of the first NTN gateway.

[0219] It should be understood that the first network device determines whether the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway based on the identifier of the first NTN gateway indicated by the information of the first NTN gateway. The first list includes the identifier of at least one NTN gateway, and the communication link between the at least one NTN gateway and the first network device is available. If the first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway, it indicates that the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, and the first network device transmits data from the terminal device to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway.

[0220] In combination with the above Figure 5 The method shown involves a fourth network device sending second information, including information about a first serving gateway, to a second network device. The second network device then determines a first NTN gateway with which a communication link exists based on network topology information and sends third information to the fourth network device. Based on the third information, the fourth network device sends information about the first NTN gateway to the first network device. Upon receiving the first NTN gateway, the first network device can, either triggered by the information of the first NTN gateway or by determining that an available communication link exists between the first NTN gateway and the first network device, send terminal device data to the first serving gateway through the first NTN gateway, ensuring normal data transmission from the terminal device.

[0221] See Figure 6 , Figure 6This is a schematic diagram of a communication method 600 provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 6 The method 600 shown may include the following steps.

[0222] It should be understood that Figure 6 Network device #1 or network device #2 can be one of the above. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The second network device in the system. When the second network device is deployed on the second satellite, it can be understood as... Figure 6 Network device #1 in the context; when the second network device is deployed on the ground, this second network device can be understood as... Figure 6 Network device #2 in the system.

[0223] 601, Network device #2 sends network topology information to network device #1, and correspondingly, network device #1 receives the network topology information from network device #2.

[0224] Network device #1 is deployed on a satellite, and network device #2 is deployed on the ground.

[0225] In one possible implementation, network device #1 and network device #2 can be used to maintain network topology information, including that of the NTN gateway, for example, for certain network elements and / or address information (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 (The address information of the first service gateway in the network), network device #1 and network device #2 can be responsible for determining the information of the NTN gateway that can reach that specific network element and / or address information.

[0226] It should be understood that network devices #1 and #2 can be referred to as NTN gatewaytopology management (NGTM) modules. For example, network device #1 can be called the first NGTM, and network device #2 can be called the second NGTM. The first NGTM is deployed on a satellite, and the second NGTM is deployed on the ground.

[0227] It should also be understood that the first NGTM and the second NGTM can be separate network elements, or they can be integrated into, for example, Figure 4 or Figure 5 In the first network device, or the fourth network device, or other network devices, etc., in this application embodiment, network device #1 and network device #2 are described as examples.

[0228] It should be understood that the specific content of this network topology information is the same as described above. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The network topology information involved is similar; please refer to [link / reference] for details. Figure 4 and Figure 5Detailed introduction in the text.

[0229] In one possible implementation, if the first condition is met, network device #2 sends the network topology information to network device #1, i.e. Figure 6 The method in step 601 is executed.

[0230] The first condition may include one or more of the following: the network topology information changes, network device #2 is configured to periodically send network topology information and the sending period arrives, or the communication link between network device #1 and network device #2 is available, etc.

[0231] For example, when the network topology information changes, network device #2 sends the changed (or updated) network topology information to network device #1 through step 601.

[0232] For example, network device #2 periodically executes step 601 to send network topology information to network device #1. The period during which network device #2 executes step 601 can be pre-configured by the system or defined by the protocol. This application embodiment does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0233] For example, when the communication link between network device #2 and network device #1 is available, that is, when information can be transmitted between network device #1 and network device #2, network device #2 executes step 601 to send network topology information to network device #1 through information #1. Correspondingly, network device #1 receives information #1 from network device #2.

[0234] It should be understood that, if the first condition is met, network device #2 sends the first information to network device #1, that is, the first condition can trigger step 601.

[0235] It should also be understood that the first condition may be predefined by the protocol / system or preconfigured, and this application does not limit it.

[0236] In another possible implementation, step 601 can also be triggered when network device #2 receives a request from network device #1 to obtain network topology information (e.g., a first request message). Figure 6 As shown, prior to step 601, the method may further include:

[0237] 602, Network device #1 sends a first request message to network device #2, and correspondingly, network device #2 receives the first request message from network device #1.

[0238] The first request information is used to request network topology information.

[0239] It should be understood that network device #2 receives the first request information from network device #1 and executes step 601 according to the first request information, sending the network topology information to network device #1.

[0240] Optionally, after receiving network topology information from network device #2, network device #1 stores the network topology information locally on network device #1.

[0241] In one possible implementation, the network device #1 stores network topology information locally. In other scenarios (such as satellite store-and-forward scenarios), the locally stored network topology information can be used to determine the information of available NTN gateways that can transmit terminal device data to the service gateway corresponding to the terminal device, thereby ensuring the normal transmission of uplink data of the terminal device.

[0242] It should be understood that network device #1 and network device #2 can respectively supply power to consumer network elements (e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 The first and fourth network devices in the network send network topology information. For example, when a consuming network element requests access to a specific network element and / or address (e.g., ...), it sends network topology information. Figure 4 and Figure 5 When a consumer network element receives NTN gateway information (the first serving gateway in the network), it can send a request to network device #1 and / or network device #2 to obtain network topology information. This request includes the identifier and / or address of the target serving gateway that the consumer network element wants to connect to. Correspondingly, network device #1 and / or network device #2 send a response to the consumer network element based on the identifier and / or address of the target serving gateway received from the request. This response includes the identifier, address, or location of the NTN gateway capable of connecting to the target serving gateway.

[0243] It should also be understood that, Figure 6 In the method shown, network device #2 can also send information indicating the satellite coverage area to network device #1, and correspondingly, network device #1 receives the information indicating the satellite coverage area from network device #2. Optionally, network device #1 can store the information indicating the satellite coverage area locally. The conditions that trigger network device #2 to send information indicating the satellite coverage area to network device #1 are similar to the conditions that trigger network device #2 to send network topology information to network device #1, and will not be repeated here. The information indicating the satellite coverage area and the network topology information can be carried in the same message and transmitted simultaneously, or carried in different messages and transmitted sequentially; this application does not limit this.

[0244] In combination with the above Figure 6 The method shown allows network devices #1 and #2 to perceive network topology information, including the NTN gateway. Network device #1, deployed on a satellite, can obtain network topology information from network device #2 deployed on the ground and store it locally. This facilitates providing consumer network elements with information about the NTN gateway that can connect to the target service gateway, thereby ensuring normal data transmission.

[0245] It is understood that in some of the above embodiments, the network devices or gateways are repeatedly mentioned as being deployed on satellites or on the ground. Taking the deployment of a gateway on a satellite as an example, it can mean that the gateway is set up on the satellite, or it can be considered that the satellite has the gateway function, and this is not limited.

[0246] It is also understood that some optional features in the various embodiments of this application may not depend on other features in some scenarios, or may be combined with other features in some scenarios, without limitation.

[0247] It is also understood that the solutions in the various embodiments of this application can be used in reasonable combinations, and the explanations or descriptions of the various terms appearing in the embodiments can be referenced or explained to each other in the various embodiments, without limitation.

[0248] It is also understood that, in the above-described method embodiments, the methods and operations implemented by a device (such as a terminal device or a network device) can also be implemented by components of the device (such as chips or circuits), without limitation.

[0249] The above, combined with Figures 4 to 6 The methods provided in the embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Figures 7 to 9 The apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application is described in detail. It should be understood that the description of the apparatus embodiments corresponds to the description of the method embodiments. Therefore, for content not described in detail, please refer to the method embodiments above. For the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0250] See Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 700 includes a transceiver unit 710. The transceiver unit 710 can be used to implement corresponding communication functions. The transceiver unit 710 can also be referred to as a communication interface or communication unit. Optionally, the device 700 further includes a processing unit 720. The processing unit 720 can be used to perform processing, such as determining an access gateway, or allocating transmission resources, etc.

[0251] Optionally, the device 700 may further include a storage unit for storing instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 720 may read the instructions and / or data from the storage unit to enable the device to implement the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0252] Optionally, the transceiver unit 710 may include a receiving unit and a sending unit. The receiving unit can be used to perform receiving-related operations (such as receiving data or messages), and the sending unit can be used to perform sending-related operations (such as sending data or messages).

[0253] In a first possible design, the device 700 may be the first network device in the foregoing embodiments. This device 700 may implement steps or processes corresponding to those executed by the first network device in the above method embodiments. For example, the device 700 may implement steps or processes corresponding to those executed by the first network device in the foregoing method embodiments. Figures 4 to 5 The steps or processes executed by the first network device in the illustrated method embodiment. The transceiver unit 710 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending and / or receiving data or messages) of the first network device in the above method embodiment. The processing unit 720 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the first network device in the above method embodiment, or operations other than transceiver (such as operations other than sending and / or receiving data or messages).

[0254] In one possible implementation, transceiver unit 710 is used to receive data from a terminal device; when the communication link between the first network device and the service gateway deployed on the ground is unavailable, processing unit 720 is used to store the data, and the service gateway is used to transmit the data from the terminal device; transceiver unit 710 is also used to receive information from a first NTN gateway, and there is an available communication link between the first NTN gateway and the service gateway; processing unit 720 is also used to instruct transceiver unit 710 to send the stored data to the service gateway through the first NTN gateway when the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available, based on the information from the first NTN gateway.

[0255] In a second possible design, the device 700 can be a second network device as described in the foregoing embodiments. This device 700 can implement the steps or processes performed by the second network device corresponding to those described in the above method embodiments. For example, the device 700 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to those described above. Figures 4 to 5 The steps or processes executed by the second network device in the method embodiment shown, or the device 700 can implement the steps or processes corresponding to the above. Figure 7The steps or processes executed by network device #1 in the method embodiment shown. The transceiver unit 710 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending and / or receiving data or messages) of the second network device (or network device #1) in the above method embodiment. The processing unit 720 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the second network device (or network device #1) in the above method embodiment, or operations other than transceiver (such as operations other than sending and / or receiving data or messages).

[0256] In one possible implementation, the transceiver unit 710 is used to receive second information, which includes information about a service gateway deployed on the ground, the service gateway being used to transmit data from the terminal device; the processing unit 720 is used to determine a first NTN network based on network topology information; and the transceiver unit 710 is also used to send information about the first NTN gateway.

[0257] In a third possible design, the device 700 could be the fourth network device in the foregoing embodiments. This device 700 could implement steps or processes corresponding to those executed by the fourth network device in the above method embodiments. For example, the device 700 could implement steps or processes corresponding to those executed in the foregoing embodiments. Figure 5 The steps or processes executed by the fourth network device in the illustrated method embodiment. The transceiver unit 710 can be used to perform transceiver-related operations (such as sending and / or receiving data or messages) of the fourth network device in the above method embodiment. The processing unit 720 can be used to perform processing-related operations of the fourth network device in the above method embodiment, or operations other than transceiver (such as operations other than sending and / or receiving data or messages).

[0258] In one possible implementation, transceiver unit 710 is configured to send second information, the second information including information about a first service gateway deployed on the ground, the first service gateway being used for data transmission of terminal devices; transceiver unit 710 is also configured to receive third information, the third information indicating information about an NTN gateway having a communication link with the first service gateway, the NTN gateway including the first NTN gateway; transceiver unit 710 is also configured to send information about the first NTN gateway.

[0259] It should be understood that the specific process of each unit performing the above-mentioned corresponding steps has been described in detail in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here for the sake of brevity.

[0260] It should also be understood that the device 700 here is embodied in the form of a functional unit. The term "unit" here can refer to an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), electronic circuitry, a processor (e.g., a shared processor, a proprietary processor, or a group processor, etc.) and memory for executing one or more software or firmware programs, integrated logic circuitry, and / or other suitable components supporting the described functions. In an alternative example, those skilled in the art will understand that the device 800 can specifically be the communication device in the above embodiments, and can be used to execute the various processes and / or steps corresponding to the communication device in the above method embodiments; to avoid repetition, these will not be described again here.

[0261] The apparatus 700 of each of the above-described schemes has the function of implementing the corresponding steps performed by the communication device in the above-described methods. The function can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the above functions; for example, the transceiver unit can be replaced by a transceiver (e.g., the transmitting unit in the transceiver unit can be replaced by a transmitter, and the receiving unit in the transceiver unit can be replaced by a receiver), and other units, such as processing units, can be replaced by processors, each executing the transceiver operations and related processing operations in each method embodiment.

[0262] In addition, the transceiver unit 710 described above can also be a transceiver circuit (for example, it may include a receiving circuit and a transmitting circuit), and the processing unit can be a processing circuit.

[0263] It should be pointed out that, Figure 7 The device in this context can be a network element as described in the preceding embodiments, or it can be a chip or a chip system, such as a system-on-a-chip (SoC). The transceiver unit can be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processing unit is a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. No limitations are imposed here.

[0264] See Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device 800 provided in an embodiment of this application. The device 800 includes a processor 810, which is coupled to a memory 820. The memory 820 is used to store computer programs or instructions and / or data. The processor 810 is used to execute the computer programs or instructions stored in the memory 820, or to read the data stored in the memory 820, in order to perform the methods in the above method embodiments.

[0265] Optionally, there may be one or more processors 810.

[0266] Optionally, the memory 820 may be one or more.

[0267] Alternatively, the memory 820 can be integrated with the processor 810, or it can be set separately.

[0268] Optionally, such as Figure 8 As shown, the device 800 also includes a transceiver 830 for receiving and / or transmitting signals. For example, a processor 810 is used to control the transceiver 830 to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0269] As an example, processor 810 may have Figure 7 The processing unit 720 shown has the function of a storage unit, the memory 820 can have the function of a storage unit, and the transceiver 830 can have... Figure 7 The function of the transceiver unit 710 shown is illustrated.

[0270] As one option, the device 800 is used to implement the operations performed by the communication device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0271] For example, processor 810 is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in memory 820 to implement the relevant operations of the first network device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0272] For example, processor 810 is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in memory 820 to implement the relevant operations of the second network device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0273] For example, processor 810 is used to execute computer programs or instructions stored in memory 820 to implement the relevant operations of the fourth network device in the various method embodiments described above.

[0274] It should be understood that the processor mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0275] It should also be understood that the memory mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. Volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM). For example, RAM can be used as an external cache. By way of example and not limitation, RAM includes the following forms: static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous linked dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0276] It should be noted that when the processor is a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic device, or discrete hardware component, the memory (storage module) can be integrated into the processor.

[0277] It should also be noted that the memory described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0278] See Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of a chip system 900 provided in an embodiment of this application. The chip system 900 (or may also be referred to as a processing system) includes logic circuitry 910 and an input / output interface 920.

[0279] The logic circuit 910 can be a processing circuit in the chip system 900. The logic circuit 910 can be coupled to a memory unit, calling instructions from the memory unit, enabling the chip system 900 to implement the methods and functions of the embodiments of this application. The input / output interface 920 can be an input / output circuit in the chip system 900, outputting processed information from the chip system 900, or inputting data or signaling information to be processed into the chip system 900 for processing.

[0280] Optionally, the logic circuit 910 may be implemented by one or more processors, including the one or more processors or the processing portion of the one or more processors.

[0281] Optionally, the input / output interface 920 may include transceiver circuitry, a transceiver, input / output circuitry, or a communication interface.

[0282] As one approach, the chip system 900 is used to implement the operations performed by the communication devices (such as the first network device, the second network device, the third network device, and the fourth network device) in the various method embodiments described above.

[0283] For example, logic circuit 910 is used to implement processing-related operations performed by communication devices (such as the first network device, the second network device, the third network device, and the fourth network device) in the above method embodiments; input / output interface 920 is used to implement sending and / or receiving-related operations performed by communication devices (such as the first network device, the second network device, the third network device, and the fourth network device) in the above method embodiments.

[0284] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions for implementing the methods executed by communication devices (such as a first network device, a second network device, a third network device, and a fourth network device) in the above-described method embodiments.

[0285] For example, when the computer program is executed by a computer, the computer can implement the methods performed by communication devices (such as the first network device, the second network device, the third network device, and the fourth network device) in the various embodiments of the above methods.

[0286] This application also provides a computer program product comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, implement the methods described above, performed by a communication device (such as a first network device, a second network device, a third network device, or a fourth network device).

[0287] This application also provides a communication system, which includes at least one of the first network device, second network device, third network device, and fourth network device described in the above embodiments. For example, the system includes... Figure 4 The system includes a first network device and a second network device. For example, the system includes... Figure 5 The first network device, the second network device, and the fourth network device.

[0288] The explanations and beneficial effects of the relevant contents in any of the devices provided above can be found in the corresponding method embodiments provided above, and will not be repeated here.

[0289] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus 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 mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection of apparatus or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0290] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. For example, the computer can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., DVDs), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks, SSDs). For example, the aforementioned available media include, but are not limited to, USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks, and other media capable of storing program code.

[0291] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: A first network device suitable for being deployed on a first satellite, the method comprising: receiving data from a terminal device; storing the data in a case that a communication link between the first network device and a first service gateway deployed on the ground is unavailable, the first service gateway being used for data transmission of the terminal device; receiving information of a first non-terrestrial network, NTN, gateway, there being a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first service gateway; sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available according to the information of the first NTN gateway.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates that the communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available; The sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available according to the information of the first NTN gateway comprises: sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway triggered by the information of the first NTN gateway.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates a first time instant at which the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available; The sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available according to the information of the first NTN gateway comprises: sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway at the first time instant.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates a location of the first NTN gateway, the sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available according to the information of the first NTN gateway comprises: sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a current coverage range of the first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates an identity of the first NTN gateway, the sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a communication link between the first network device and the first NTN gateway is available according to the information of the first NTN gateway comprises: sending the stored data to the first service gateway through the first NTN gateway in a case that a first list includes the identity of the first NTN gateway, the first list including identities of at least one NTN gateway, a communication link between the first network device and the at least one NTN gateway being available.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, Before the receiving the information of the first NTN gateway, the method further comprises: The second information includes information of the first service gateway.

7. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method is suitable for a second network device, and the method comprises: receiving second information, the second information including information of a first service gateway deployed on the ground, the first service gateway being used for data transmission of a terminal device; determining a first NTN gateway according to network topology information, the network topology information indicating at least one NTN gateway having a communication link with the first service gateway, the at least one NTN gateway including the first NTN gateway; sending information of the first NTN gateway, the information of the first NTN gateway being used for transmission of data of the terminal device between the first network device and the first NTN gateway.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The sending of the information of the first NTN gateway includes: sending the information of the first NTN gateway in a case where a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, the information of the first NTN gateway being used for triggering the first network device to transmit data of the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein, The sending of the information of the first NTN gateway in the case where the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available includes: sending the information of the first NTN gateway in a case where a current coverage range of a first satellite includes a location of the first NTN gateway, wherein the first network device is deployed on the first satellite.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates a first time at which the communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The method further comprises: determining the first time according to information indicating a coverage range of a first satellite, the first network device being deployed on the first satellite.

12. The method of claim 7, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates a location of the first NTN gateway.

13. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 12, characterized in that, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates an identifier of the first NTN gateway.

14. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 13, characterized in that, The second network device is deployed on a second satellite, and the method further comprises: receiving the network topology information from a third network device deployed on the ground.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving information indicating the coverage range of the first satellite from the third network device.

16. A method of communication, comprising: The method is suitable for a fourth network device, and the method comprises: sending second information, the second information including information of a first service gateway deployed on the ground, the first service gateway being used for data transmission of a terminal device; receiving third information, the third information indicating information of an NTN gateway having a communication link with the first service gateway, the NTN gateway including a first NTN gateway, sending information of the first NTN gateway to a first network device, the information of the first NTN gateway being used for transmission of data of the terminal device between the first network device and the first NTN gateway.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The sending of the information of the first NTN gateway to the first network device includes: In a case that a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, the information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device, the information of the first NTN gateway being used to trigger the first network device to transmit data of the terminal device through the first NTN gateway.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The third information is used to indicate a location of the first NTN gateway, and the information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device in a case that a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, including: In a case that a coverage of a first satellite includes the location of the first NTN gateway, the information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device, The first network device is deployed on the first satellite.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein, The third information is used to indicate a first time point, and a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at the first time point, The information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device in a case that a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, including: The information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device at the first time point.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein, The third information is used to indicate an identifier of the first NTN gateway, and the information of the first NTN gateway is sent to the first network device in a case that a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available, including: In a case that a first list includes the identifier of the first NTN gateway, the information of the first NTN gateway is sent, the first list including identifiers of at least one NTN gateway, and a communication link between the at least one NTN gateway and the first network device is available.

21. The method of claim 16, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates a location of the first NTN gateway.

22. The method of claim 16, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates a first time point, and a communication link between the first NTN gateway and the first network device is available at the first time point.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein, The method further includes: According to the information used to indicate a coverage of a first satellite, the first time point is determined as a time point at which the coverage of the first satellite includes the location of the NTN gateway, and the first network device is deployed on the first satellite.

24. The method of any one of claims 16-23, wherein, The information of the first NTN gateway indicates an identifier of the first NTN gateway.

25. A communications device, characterized by The apparatus includes a module or unit for performing the method of any of claims 1-24.

26. A communications device, characterized by The apparatus includes a processor configured to execute a computer program or instructions in a memory to cause the apparatus to perform the method of any of claims 1-24.

27. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer readable storage medium has stored thereon a computer program or instructions, which, when executed on a communication apparatus, cause the communication apparatus to perform the method of any of claims 1-24.

28. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product includes computer program or instructions for performing the method of any of claims 1-24.

Images