Message delivery method and related equipment

Abstract

The invention discloses a message delivery method and related equipment. The method is applied to a short message service function unit (SMSF), and before a message is sent to user equipment, the SMSF firstly obtains equipment state information and network environment information of the user equipment, and then judges whether the message delivery meets a preset condition of skipping terminal reachability query based on the two types of information. If the preset condition is met, the SMSF skips reachability query of the user equipment and directly initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment; and if the preset condition is not met, the SMSF initiates a terminal reachability query to the user equipment, and initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment after determining that the message of the user equipment is reachable. According to the invention, the SMSF can skip a redundant terminal reachability query process under the scene that the reachability of the user equipment is clear, directly initiates message delivery, and reduces the consumption of signaling link bandwidth and network element processing resources between the SMSF and the AMF.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of 5G communication technology, and in particular to a message delivery method and related equipment. Background Technology

[0002] In 5G mobile communication networks, Short Message Service (SMS), as one of the fundamental communication services, has seen its transmission methods optimized with the evolution of network architecture. Among these, the SMS over NAS solution, based on access network layer message transmission, has become a key technology path for SMS transmission in the 5G core network due to its advantages such as not relying on Packet Data Unit (PDU) sessions, wide coverage, and adaptability to weak signals and IoT terminals. This solution achieves SMS delivery through control plane signaling and relies heavily on the collaboration of network elements such as the Short Message Service Function (SMSF), Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), and Unified Data Management (UDM).

[0003] After a downlink message (Mobile Terminated, MT) is sent from the Short Message Service Center (SMSC) to the SMSF, the SMSF must strictly follow the protocol to initiate a user equipment reachability query with the AMF. Only after confirming that the user equipment is reachable can the downlink message be delivered to the user equipment through the AMF.

[0004] However, during communication, every time an MT message is sent, the SMSF needs to initiate a reachability query, resulting in redundant queries that waste resources and consume signaling bandwidth and network element processing resources. Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a message delivery method and related equipment.

[0006] The embodiments of this application disclose the following technical solutions:

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a message delivery method applied to a Short Message Service (SMSF) functional unit, the method comprising:

[0008] Before sending a message to the user equipment, the SMSF obtains the device status information and network environment information of the user equipment;

[0009] Based on the device status information and the network environment information, the SMSF determines whether the message delivery meets the preset conditions for skipping the terminal reachability query.

[0010] If the preset conditions are met in this message delivery, the SMSF will skip the reachability query of the user equipment and directly initiate the message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0011] If the message delivery does not meet the preset conditions, the SMSF initiates a terminal reachability query to the user equipment; and after determining that the message is reachable from the user equipment, the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0012] In one possible implementation, if the device status information meets at least one of the preset conditions and the network environment information meets the preset normal network conditions, then the SMSF can evaluate that the terminal reachability query can be skipped for this message delivery.

[0013] The preset conditions include: the user equipment has completed registration for SMS over NAS based on the access network layer message transmission, and the registration information of the user equipment is in a valid state; the user equipment has sent an uplink message to the SMSF within a preset time window; the SMSF has successfully delivered a downlink message to the user equipment within a preset time window; and the user equipment is currently in the process of transmitting multiple messages.

[0014] The preset normal network conditions include that the network load in the tracking area where the user equipment is located is lower than a preset load threshold, and the signaling link latency between the SMSF and the Access and Mobility Management Function Unit (AMF) that provides services to the user equipment is lower than a preset latency threshold.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment, including:

[0016] The SMSF generates a message delivery request carrying the user equipment identifier and message content, and sends the message delivery request to the AMF that provides services to the user equipment, so that the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment, including:

[0018] After receiving the message delivery request, AMF checks the current connection status of the user equipment;

[0019] If the test result indicates that the user equipment is in a connected state, the AMF will send the message to the user equipment.

[0020] If the test result indicates that the user equipment is in an idle state, the AMF initiates a paging process for the user equipment, and sends the message to the user equipment after the paging is successful.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0022] After the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment, if the SMSF receives a message reception failure message from the user equipment, or does not receive a message reception confirmation message from the user equipment within a preset waiting time, the SMSF assesses that the user equipment is unreachable.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0024] The user equipment initiates a registration request to the AMF, and the registration request carries an identifier indicating that the user equipment supports SMS over NAS.

[0025] After receiving the registration request, AMF selects a target SMSF and sends an SMS over NAS service activation request to the target SMSF.

[0026] The target SMSF interacts with the Unified Data Management Unit (UDM) based on the SMS over NAS service activation request. After completing the SMS over NAS registration of the user equipment, the target SMSF returns a service activation success response to the AMF.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the method further includes:

[0028] The user equipment generates an uplink message, which is then forwarded by the base station to the AMF that provides services to the user equipment.

[0029] After receiving the uplink message, the AMF forwards the uplink message to the SMSF serving the user equipment.

[0030] After receiving the uplink message, the SMSF sends an uplink message reception confirmation to the user equipment and forwards the uplink message to the short message center.

[0031] Secondly, embodiments of this application disclose a message delivery device, the device comprising:

[0032] The acquisition module is used to acquire the device status information and network environment information of the user equipment before the SMSF sends a message to the user equipment;

[0033] The judgment module is used to determine, based on the device status information and the network environment information, whether the current message delivery meets the preset conditions for skipping the terminal reachability query;

[0034] The sending module is used to, when the preset conditions are met in this message delivery, allow the SMSF to skip the reachability query of the user equipment and directly initiate the message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0035] The sending module is further configured to initiate a terminal reachability query to the user equipment if the current message delivery does not meet the preset conditions; and after determining that the message is reachable from the user equipment, initiate a message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the sending module is specifically configured to, if the device status information meets at least one of the preset conditions and the network environment information meets the preset normal network conditions, then the SMSF evaluates that the terminal reachability query can be skipped for this message delivery.

[0037] The preset conditions include: the user equipment has completed registration for SMS over NAS based on the access network layer message transmission, and the registration information of the user equipment is in a valid state; the user equipment has sent an uplink message to the SMSF within a preset time window; the SMSF has successfully delivered a downlink message to the user equipment within a preset time window; and the user equipment is currently in the process of transmitting multiple messages.

[0038] The preset normal network conditions include that the network load in the tracking area where the user equipment is located is lower than a preset load threshold, and the signaling link latency between the SMSF and the Access and Mobility Management Function Unit (AMF) that provides services to the user equipment is lower than a preset latency threshold.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the sending module is specifically used to generate a message delivery request carrying a user equipment identifier and message content, and send the message delivery request to the AMF that provides services to the user equipment, so that the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment, including: after receiving the message delivery request, the AMF checks the current connection status of the user equipment; if the check result indicates that the user equipment is in a connected state, the AMF sends the message to the user equipment; if the check result indicates that the user equipment is in an idle state, the AMF initiates a paging to the user equipment, and after the paging is successful, sends the message to the user equipment.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the judgment module is further configured to, after the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment, assess that the user equipment is unreachable if the SMSF receives a message reception failure message from the user equipment, or does not receive a message reception confirmation message from the user equipment within a preset waiting time.

[0042] In one possible implementation, the device further includes a registration module, which interacts with the Unified Data Management Unit (UDM) based on the SMS over NAS service activation request, completes the SMS over NAS registration of the user equipment, and then returns a service activation success response to the AMF; the SMS over NAS service activation request is sent by the AMF to the target SMSF after receiving the registration request; the registration request is sent by the user equipment to the AMF, and the registration request carries an identifier indicating that the user equipment supports SMS over NAS.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the sending module is further configured to, after receiving the uplink message, return an uplink message reception confirmation to the user equipment and forward the uplink message to the short message center; the uplink message is forwarded by the AMF to the SMSF.

[0044] Thirdly, embodiments of this application disclose a control device, including a processor and a memory, wherein the memory is used to store programs, instructions or code, and the processor is used to execute the programs, instructions or code in the memory to complete the message delivery method as described in any of the first aspects.

[0045] Fourthly, embodiments of this application disclose a computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that it stores a computer program, which is loaded by a processor to execute the message delivery method as described in any of the first aspects.

[0046] This application provides a message delivery method and related equipment. The method is applied to a Short Message Service Function (SMSF). Before sending a message to a user device, the SMSF first obtains the user device's device status information and network environment information. Based on these two types of information, it then determines whether the message delivery meets the preset condition of skipping the terminal reachability query. If the preset condition is met, the SMSF skips the user device's reachability query and directly initiates the message delivery process to the user device. If the preset condition is not met, the SMSF first initiates a terminal reachability query to the user device. After determining that the message is reachable from the user device, it then initiates the message delivery process to the user device.

[0047] This embodiment of the application first obtains the device status information and network environment information of the user equipment and determines whether preset conditions are met. In scenarios where the reachability of the user equipment is clear, the SMSF can skip the redundant terminal reachability query process and directly initiate message delivery, reducing unnecessary signaling interactions and lowering the consumption of signaling link bandwidth and network element processing resources between the SMSF and AMF. Simultaneously, it eliminates the request, response, and possible paging cycles of reachability queries, shortening the overall message delivery latency and improving message transmission efficiency. Furthermore, it reduces intensive query operations in high-concurrency scenarios, helping to alleviate network element load pressure, avoiding delivery anomalies caused by query congestion, ensuring message delivery stability, and thus optimizing network operating costs and user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0048] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0049] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating an SMS over NAS message passing process provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a message delivery method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a message delivery method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating SMS over NAS registration for a UE is provided as an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating how a UE sends an MO message to an SMSC, as provided in this application embodiment;

[0054] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a message delivery device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0055] As described earlier, with the increasing penetration of 5G networks and the growing demand for scenarios such as emergency notifications, IoT remote control, and verification code distribution, the transmission efficiency and resource utilization of SMS over NAS solutions have become key indicators affecting user experience. According to the standard procedures defined by the 3GPP protocol, when the SMSF receives a downlink message (Mobile Terminated, MT) from the Short Message Service Center (SMSC) and needs to deliver it to the user equipment, it must first initiate a user equipment reachability query with the AMF. Only after confirming that the user equipment is reachable can the MT message delivery process be initiated.

[0056] The existing solution has obvious technical flaws. Even in scenarios where the user equipment has just registered and there is clear reachability such as message interaction within a short period of time, the SMSF still needs to repeatedly query before sending the MT message, consuming signaling bandwidth and network element processing resources.

[0057] To address this technical problem, embodiments of this application provide a message delivery method and related equipment. This method is applied to the Short Message Service Function Unit (SMSF). Before sending a message to a user device, the SMSF first obtains the user device's device status information and network environment information. Then, based on these two types of information, it determines whether the message delivery meets the preset conditions for skipping terminal reachability queries. If the preset conditions are met, the SMSF skips the user device's reachability query and directly initiates the message delivery process to the user device. If the preset conditions are not met, the SMSF first initiates a terminal reachability query to the user device. After determining that the message is reachable from the user device, it then initiates the message delivery process to the user device.

[0058] This embodiment of the application first obtains the device status information and network environment information of the user equipment and determines whether preset conditions are met. In scenarios where the reachability of the user equipment is clear, the SMSF can skip the redundant terminal reachability query process and directly initiate message delivery, reducing unnecessary signaling interactions and lowering the consumption of signaling link bandwidth and network element processing resources between the SMSF and AMF. Simultaneously, it eliminates the request, response, and possible paging cycles of reachability queries, shortening the overall message delivery latency and improving message transmission efficiency. Furthermore, it reduces intensive query operations in high-concurrency scenarios, helping to alleviate network element load pressure, avoiding delivery anomalies caused by query congestion, ensuring message delivery stability, and thus optimizing network operating costs and user experience.

[0059] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the present application, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0060] The message delivery method provided in this application embodiment is applied in scenarios centered around the collaborative deployment of key hardware network elements in the 5G core network. It relies primarily on the linkage of SMSF, AMF, UE, and supporting network hardware, and is suitable for 5G short message transmission scenarios based on SMSover NAS technology. Specific application scenarios combined with hardware devices are as follows:

[0061] The core execution hardware in this embodiment is an SMSF server deployed on the control plane of the 5G core network. The SMSF server typically adopts a virtualized server cluster architecture, integrating a signaling processing module, a user state storage module, and a network environment monitoring module. This SMSF server interacts with the AMF and UDM through a service-oriented interface. The user-side hardware is a UE that supports SMSover NAS functionality, such as a smartphone, IoT terminal, or industrial control equipment. The UE establishes a control plane connection with the AMF through the base station to complete NAS SMS service registration and message sending and receiving.

[0062] In actual deployment, the SMSF server can store the UE's recent interaction records, registration status and other device status information through the local cache module, and obtain network environment information such as network load and signaling link status of the tracking area where the UE is located through real-time communication with the AMF. Based on preset rules, it determines whether to skip the reachability query, and finally delivers the MT message to the UE through the collaboration between the AMF and the base station.

[0063] This scenario covers various 5G SMS application scenarios, such as time-sensitive MT messages like smartphone users receiving verification codes and service notifications; low-power and highly reliable message transmission scenarios like IoT terminals (such as smart meters and remote monitoring devices) receiving remote control commands and status feedback notifications; and high-concurrency scenarios like large-scale MT message group sending in emergency communication scenarios. In all these exemplary scenarios, the dynamic decision-making capability of the SMSF server eliminates redundant queries when UE reachability is clear, improves message delivery efficiency through the collaboration of core network hardware devices, and reduces hardware resource consumption.

[0064] The following is combined with Figure 1 This section provides a brief overview of the SMS over NAS message passing process. For example... Figure 1As shown, the architecture of this application embodiment is based on the layered collaborative system of 5G mobile communication network, and the core includes nodes such as first user equipment, second user equipment, first base station, second base station, AMF, SMSF and SMS center.

[0065] In this process, the first user equipment (UE) acts as the sender of MO messages. It accesses the 5G core network via the first base station, forwards the MO messages to the SMSF via the AMF, and then pushes them to the SMS center via the SMSF. Meanwhile, the MT messages sent by the SMS center are transmitted to the AMF via the SMSF, and then delivered by the AMF to the second UE, which is the recipient, via the second base station.

[0066] The entire architecture uses AMF as the access and mobility management hub and SMSF as the short message processing core. It leverages the link between the base station and the 5G core network to realize message interaction between user equipment and the network side. It not only adapts to the standard control plane signaling transmission logic of 5G network, but also provides hardware and link support for optimization schemes such as dynamic reachability judgment and skipping redundant queries.

[0067] See Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a message delivery method provided in an embodiment of this application. The following description uses SMSF as the execution entity, and the method includes:

[0068] S101: Before sending a message to the user equipment, the SMSF obtains the device status information and network environment information of the user equipment.

[0069] The message sent by the SMSF to the user equipment is called an MT message, and the message sent by the user equipment to the SMSF is called an MO message.

[0070] In this embodiment, device status information refers to information related to the UE's own operating status and its interaction status with the network. Device status information includes, for example, the UE's SMS over NAS registration status, the UE's recent interaction records with the SMSF, the UE's mobility and connectivity status, or the UE's multi-segment message transmission status.

[0071] Network environment information refers to information related to the operating status and resource load of the network area where the UE is located. Examples of network environment information include the network load of the tracking area where the UE is located, the radio signal quality of the area where the UE is located, and the link status between the AMF and the SMSF.

[0072] This application embodiment determines UE reachability through a dual dimension of UE's own interaction state and network-side resource state.

[0073] The process by which the SMSF obtains device status information mainly relies on local storage and historical interaction records. After the UE completes SMS over NAS registration, the SMSF caches the UE's registration status locally. When the UE sends an uplink message (MobileOriginated, MO) to the SMSF, or the SMSF successfully delivers an MT message to the UE, the SMSF records the interaction event (including the interaction timestamp) in real time. If the UE is in the process of transmitting multiple message segments due to the length of the message content, the SMSF will identify this status through message segmentation identifiers and retain the record, which can be retrieved directly from the local storage module later.

[0074] Network environment information is acquired through real-time communication between the SMSF and other core network elements. The SMSF periodically obtains network load data of the tracking area where the UE is located through its service interface with the AMF. At the same time, the SMSF monitors the signaling link transmission latency with the AMF in real time, and determines whether the link status is normal by periodically sending link detection packets and counting the response time, thereby collecting complete network environment information.

[0075] SMSF integrates local cache query and network element interaction to ensure the integrity and real-time nature of device status and network environment information, providing accurate and reliable data support for subsequent UE reachability assessment. Furthermore, the information acquisition process requires no additional network elements or modifications to the existing network architecture; it can be achieved using existing interfaces and storage resources of the 5G core network, reducing deployment costs. The acquisition process is also efficient and low-latency, without adding extra system burden.

[0076] S102: Based on device status information and network environment information, the SMSF determines whether the message delivery meets the preset conditions for skipping terminal reachability query.

[0077] The preset conditions are a set of pre-defined rules used to determine whether the terminal reachability query can be skipped. These rules are based on device status information and network environment information and are used to identify high-probability scenarios for user device reachability.

[0078] User equipment reachability refers to the state and capability of a user equipment in a 5G network to successfully receive messages sent by the network side (such as SMSF). The core is that the UE and the network have an effective communication link, and the UE itself is in a state where it can receive messages.

[0079] From a technical perspective, UE reachability encompasses two core dimensions: First, network link reachability, meaning the control plane signaling link between the UE and core network elements (such as AMF and SMSF) remains connected, allowing the AMF to forward messages from the SMSF to the UE via this link. Second, UE status reachability, meaning the UE is not in a state where it cannot receive messages, such as being powered off, in airplane mode, in a signal dead zone, or suspended due to unpaid fees, and has completed SMS over NAS registration, possessing the service capability to receive NAS layer short messages.

[0080] In the 5G SMS over NAS solution, UE reachability is a prerequisite for successful MT message delivery. In the traditional approach, the SMSF needs to confirm this status by initiating a reachability query to the AMF. The AMF verifies whether the UE has the conditions to receive messages by querying the local UE connection status and initiating paging procedures, and then feeds back the results to the SMSF.

[0081] This application embodiment, through a comprehensive judgment of device status information and network environment information, can skip the above query process and directly initiate message delivery in scenarios where the UE is highly likely to be reachable, thus ensuring delivery reliability and improving efficiency.

[0082] SMSF first retrieves a pre-configured local rule base, which specifies the criteria that device status information and network environment information must meet. Then, SMSF matches and verifies the actual device status information and network environment information obtained in step S101 against the criteria in the rule base one by one.

[0083] During the verification process, the message delivery must meet the judgment requirements of both the device status dimension and the network environment dimension to be considered to meet the preset conditions; otherwise, if either dimension fails to meet the judgment criteria, the preset conditions are not met.

[0084] This application's embodiment achieves accurate judgment of user equipment reachability through explicit rules of preset conditions and two-way dimension verification, providing a clear and objective decision-making basis for whether to skip subsequent reachability queries. The judgment process is executed locally by the SMSF, without interaction with other network elements, resulting in high decision-making efficiency and no additional signaling overhead. Furthermore, the preset conditions can be flexibly configured based on the actual network deployment, adapting to the needs of different scenarios and ensuring the versatility and practicality of the solution, laying a core foundation for subsequent optimization of the message delivery process.

[0085] This application embodiment employs a combined judgment logic that integrates multi-scenario coverage of device status and dual verification of network environment to ensure the accuracy of UE reachability determination. Below, we will explain in detail the specific judgment method based on specific preset conditions and preset normal network conditions to accurately and efficiently determine user device reachability.

[0086] In one possible implementation, if the device status information meets at least one of the preset conditions and the network environment information meets the preset normal network conditions, then the SMSF can evaluate that the terminal reachability query can be skipped for this message delivery.

[0087] The SMSF first retrieves the locally pre-configured set of preset conditions and preset network normal condition standards to clarify the specific judgment requirements for the two types of conditions. Then, the SMSF compares the UE's device status information with each rule in the preset conditions one by one. If the device status information meets any one of the preset conditions, the device status dimension is determined to meet the requirements.

[0088] The preset conditions include: the user equipment has completed the registration of SMS over NAS based on the access network layer message transmission, and the user equipment's registration information is in a valid state; the user equipment has sent an uplink message to the SMSF within the preset time window; the SMSF has successfully delivered a downlink message to the user equipment within the preset time window; and the user equipment is in the process of transmitting multiple messages.

[0089] Meanwhile, the SMSF will verify the acquired network environment information against preset normal network conditions. Preset normal network conditions include that the network load in the tracking area where the user equipment is located is lower than a preset load threshold, and the signaling link latency between the SMSF and the Access and Mobility Management Function Unit (AMF) that provides services to the user equipment is lower than a preset latency threshold. If both conditions are met, the network environment dimension is deemed to meet the requirements.

[0090] SMSF will only determine that message delivery can skip the terminal reachability query if both the device status and network environment dimensions meet the requirements. If either dimension fails to meet the requirements, a reachability query must be performed before delivery can be initiated.

[0091] S103: If the message delivery meets the preset conditions, the SMSF will skip the reachability query of the user equipment and directly initiate the message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0092] When the device status dimension meets any of the preset conditions and the network environment dimension meets the preset normal network conditions, the SMSF can determine that the current user equipment has a high probability of reachability, without the need for additional verification of user equipment reachability through the AMF. At this time, the SMSF directly calls the local message processing module to encapsulate the MT message to be sent, generating a message delivery request that includes key information such as UE identifier, message content, and delivery priority.

[0093] Subsequently, the SMSF sends the MT message delivery request directly to the AMF providing services to the UE through the service interface pre-defined in the 5G core network. After receiving the request, the AMF forwards the MT message to the UE.

[0094] Specifically, after receiving a message delivery request, the AMF checks the current connection status of the user equipment. If the check result indicates that the user equipment is in a connected state, the AMF sends an MT message to the user equipment. If the check result indicates that the user equipment is in an idle state, the AMF initiates a paging process to the user equipment, and sends an MT message to the user equipment after the paging is successful.

[0095] Upon receiving the request, the AMF does not need to wait for the SMSF's reachability query instruction and directly initiates the UE connection status verification process. The AMF retrieves the locally stored UE context information, queries the UE's current connection mode (connected state / idle state), and completes the status verification.

[0096] The connected state refers to a state where a stable control plane signaling connection has been established between the UE, the 5G network base station, and the AMF. The UE maintains real-time communication with the network and can directly receive messages sent by the network without needing to establish an additional connection. If the test result indicates that the UE is in the connected state, it means that the UE maintains real-time communication with the network, and the AMF directly forwards MT messages to the UE through the established control plane signaling link, ensuring that messages are delivered in a timely manner.

[0097] Idle state refers to a state where the UE has completed network registration but has not established a real-time connection with the base station or AMF. It is only woken up by paging and establishes a temporary connection when it needs to send or receive messages. This is a common operating mode for UEs to save power. If the test result indicates that the UE is in idle state, the AMF will send a paging message to all base stations in the tracking area to which the UE currently belongs. The base station will wake up the UE by broadcasting a paging command via radio signal. After the UE responds to the paging and establishes a temporary connection with the base station and AMF, the AMF will forward the MT message to the UE to complete the message delivery.

[0098] This application's embodiments significantly shorten message delivery latency by skipping redundant reachability queries and directly initiating message delivery in scenarios where UE reachability is clear. This eliminates the request transmission, AMF status detection, and response feedback cycles associated with reachability queries, and particularly avoids the additional paging waiting time during UE idle states, allowing MT messages to reach the terminal faster. Furthermore, it reduces system resource consumption, decreases signaling interaction between the SMSF and AMF, alleviates network element processing pressure, and effectively avoids signaling congestion in high-concurrency message scenarios. Relying on accurate dual-dimensional prior determination, UE reachability reliability is still ensured even after skipping queries, simplifying the process without affecting message delivery success rates, achieving a balance between efficiency and stability.

[0099] S104: If the message delivery does not meet the preset conditions, the SMSF initiates a terminal reachability query to the user equipment; and after determining that the message is reachable from the user equipment, the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0100] Terminal reachability query refers to the process by which the SMSF sends a query request to the AMF, and the AMF verifies whether the UE has the ability to receive messages. It is the core operation for confirming UE reachability in the 5G SMS over NAS standard process.

[0101] When the device status dimension does not meet any of the preset conditions, or the network environment dimension does not meet the preset normal network conditions, the SMSF cannot determine the high probability of UE reachability based on the existing device status information and network environment information. In this case, the standard terminal reachability query process needs to be initiated. First, the SMSF generates a query request containing the UE's unique identifier and query type (terminal reachability verification), and sends it to the AMF serving the UE through the 5G core network service interface.

[0102] Upon receiving a query request, the AMF immediately initiates a UE status check. If the UE context stored locally in the AMF indicates that the UE is currently in connected mode, it directly determines that the UE is reachable, generates a UE reachability query response, and sends it back to the SMSF. If the UE is in idle mode, the AMF sends a paging message to the base station in the UE's tracking area. The base station broadcasts the paging command via radio signal, requesting the UE to establish a temporary connection. If the UE successfully responds to the paging, the AMF confirms the UE's reachability and sends back the corresponding response. If the paging times out without receiving a response from the UE, or if the UE is in a powered-off state, a signal dead zone, or other similar state, the AMF returns a UE unreachable query response to the SMSF.

[0103] After receiving the query response from the AMF, the SMSF initiates the message delivery process only when the response result indicates that the UE is reachable. The message delivery process can be found in the relevant description in step S103, and will not be repeated here.

[0104] This application's embodiments ensure the comprehensiveness and reliability of UE reachability determination through a query-before-delivery logic. For scenarios where UE reachability cannot be confirmed in the early stages, the real-time status verification and paging capabilities of the AMF accurately exclude cases where the UE is unreachable, avoiding message loss or resource waste due to blind delivery. Simultaneously, this step strictly adheres to the reachability query mechanism in the 5G SMSover NAS standard protocol, ensuring full compatibility with existing network architectures without requiring additional modifications to network element functions, thus guaranteeing the compatibility and deployment feasibility of the solution. Furthermore, performing the query only when UE reachability is questionable avoids the resource consumption of redundant queries and ensures a high message delivery success rate through precise verification, achieving a reliability-first delivery goal.

[0105] To facilitate understanding of the message delivery method provided in the embodiments of this application, such as Figure 3 As shown in the figure, this application embodiment further provides a flowchart of a message delivery method. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 3The message delivery method provided in the embodiments of this application is described below, with the specific steps as follows:

[0106] S301: SMSC sends an MT message to SMSF.

[0107] The SMSC sends the MT message to be delivered to the SMSF responsible for the UE service, thus triggering the message delivery process.

[0108] S302: SMSF determines UE reachability.

[0109] The SMSF first obtains the UE's device status information and network environment information, and determines whether the reachability query can be skipped for this delivery based on preset conditions. If the SMSF assesses that the UE is currently reachable, it can skip the terminal reachability query and directly execute step S306; if the SMSF assesses that the UE is currently unreachable, it executes step S303.

[0110] S303: The SMSF sends a UE reachability query request to the AMF.

[0111] Since S302 determines that an reachability query needs to be performed, the SMSF generates a UE reachability query request and sends it to the AMF that provides services to the UE.

[0112] S304: AMF paging UE.

[0113] After receiving a query request, if the UE is currently in an idle state, the AMF sends a paging command to the base station in the tracking area where the UE is located, wakes up the UE via radio signal, and establishes a temporary connection. If the UE is in a connected state, it directly obtains its reachability status.

[0114] S305: AMF returns the UE reachability query results.

[0115] After the AMF completes the UE status check or paging, it feeds back the UE reachability query result to the SMSF. Based on this, the SMSF determines that the UE has the ability to receive messages and then executes step S306.

[0116] S306: The SMSF sends a message delivery request to the AMF.

[0117] The SMSF generates a message delivery request that includes the MT message content and the UE identifier, and sends the message delivery request to the AMF, requesting the AMF to forward the MT message to the UE.

[0118] S307: AMF sends an MT message to the UE.

[0119] After receiving the message delivery request, the AMF forwards the MT message to the UE through the established control plane link or temporary connection.

[0120] S308: AMF returns the MT message delivery result to SMSF.

[0121] The AMF will send the result of whether the UE has successfully received the message (e.g., whether it has been delivered or not) back to the SMSF.

[0122] S309: The UE reports an MT message to the SMSF via the AMF.

[0123] After the UE successfully receives the MT message, it sends an MT message report to the AMF, which then forwards the MT message report to the SMSF.

[0124] S310: The SMSF replies to the SMSC with the MT message report, and the SMSF sends a message to the UE through the AMF to confirm receipt of the MT message report.

[0125] The SMSF reports the MT message back to the SMSC and informs the UE that it has received the MT message report, thus completing the entire delivery process of this MT message.

[0126] The message delivery method provided in this application first determines the UE's reachability and then performs a query or delivery as needed. This eliminates redundant queries in scenarios where UE reachability is clear, and ensures delivery reliability through standard queries when reachability is questionable, thus achieving a balance between message delivery efficiency and resource utilization.

[0127] The above process implements pre-judgment and delivery logic based on UE status and network environment. However, in real-world scenarios, there may be situations where the message is initially determined to be reachable, but reception still fails after delivery. To address this, this application embodiment also supplements a reachability verification mechanism after delivery to further ensure the final success rate of message delivery.

[0128] After the SMSF initiates the message delivery procedure to the UE through step S103 or S104, it starts a timer with a preset waiting time and continuously monitors the UE's message reception feedback. If, during the timer's execution, the SMSF receives a message reception failure message forwarded by the UE via the AMF (e.g., the UE experiences a reception timeout due to a temporary signal interruption), or if the timer expires and the SMSF still does not receive a message reception confirmation message from the UE, the SMSF assesses that the user equipment is unreachable, meaning the SMSF assesses that the user equipment cannot accurately receive MT messages. In the next MT message delivery, the SMSF initiates a terminal reachability query with the AMF providing services to the user equipment.

[0129] If the AMF returns a result indicating that the UE is reachable, the SMSF will re-initiate the message delivery process; if it returns that the UE is unreachable, the delivery will be terminated and the reason for failure will be recorded. This mechanism compensates for the potential state lag in the initial determination through secondary verification after delivery, further improving the reliability of message delivery without increasing the overhead of the regular process, and is especially suitable for scenarios where the UE state is prone to fluctuation, such as weak signal and high mobility.

[0130] The successful execution of the aforementioned message delivery process requires that the UE has completed SMS over NAS registration and possesses NAS-layer short message sending and receiving capabilities. Therefore, this application also provides an embodiment of UE SMS over NAS registration, clarifying the interaction logic between the UE and core network elements, laying a business foundation for subsequent message delivery optimization schemes.

[0131] Specifically, the UE initiates a registration request to the AMF, including its SMS over NAS capability identifier, explicitly informing the network that it has NAS-layer SMS transmission capabilities. Upon receiving the registration request, the AMF selects a suitable target SMSF based on network configuration and load balancing strategies, and sends an SMS over NAS service activation request to that target SMSF, synchronizing the UE's basic identifier and capability information. After receiving the activation request, the target SMSF interacts with the UDM to query and store the UE's SMS subscription data and enter registration information. Once it confirms that the UE has the permission to activate the SMS over NAS service and completes the registration process, it returns a successful service activation response to the AMF. Thus, the UE's SMS over NAS registration process is complete.

[0132] The registration process strictly follows the 5G core network protocol specifications. Through the collaborative interaction of UE, AMF, SMSF and UDM, it ensures that the UE has the basic service capabilities of NAS short message sending and receiving. At the same time, it provides a data source for the SMSF to obtain UE registration status information and determine reachability, which is a prerequisite for the entire message delivery optimization scheme.

[0133] To facilitate understanding the process of UE registering SMS over NAS, such as Figure 4 As shown in the figure, this application embodiment also provides a flowchart of a UE performing SMS over NAS registration. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 4 This section provides further details on the SMS over NAS registration process.

[0134] S401: UE initiates registration process.

[0135] The UE sends a registration request to the AMF, carrying an identifier indicating its ability to support SMS over NAS, thus triggering the registration process.

[0136] S402: AMF selects target SMSF.

[0137] AMF selects the target SMSF to provide short message service to the UE based on rules such as network load and regional configuration.

[0138] S403: AMF sends a service activation request.

[0139] AMF sends an SMS over NAS service activation request to the target SMSF to synchronize the UE's identification and capability information.

[0140] S404: Target SMSF selects UDM.

[0141] The target MSF selects the UDM that stores the UE's subscription data based on the UE's home information.

[0142] S405-S407: Target SMSF and UDM interaction.

[0143] The target SMSSF first completes the UE's SMS information registration in the UDM (S405), then obtains the UE's SMS subscription data (S406), and subscribes to the update notification of the subscription data (S407), thus completing the filing and synchronization of the UE's service information.

[0144] S408: The target SMSF returns an activation response.

[0145] The target SMSF returns a successful SMS over NAS service activation response to the AMF, confirming the registration is complete.

[0146] S409: AMF notifies UE that registration was successful.

[0147] The AMF sends a registration success message to the UE, at which point the UE completes SMS over NAS registration and gains the ability to send and receive short messages at the NAS layer.

[0148] This process, through the step-by-step interaction of multiple network elements, not only activates the UE's service capabilities but also provides data support for the subsequent SMSF to obtain the UE's registration status and determine reachability. It is a necessary prerequisite process for the message delivery solution.

[0149] In addition to the delivery process of MT messages from the network side to the UE, the interaction process of the UE actively sending MO messages to the SMSC is not only one of the core scenarios of 5G SMS over NAS service, but also provides key device status information (such as recent message interaction records) for determining the reachability of subsequent MT message delivery. Therefore, this application embodiment also provides an implementation process for the UE to send MO messages to the SMSC.

[0150] Specifically, the process of a UE sending an MO message to the SMSC relies on the 5G core network control plane link. The UE first generates an MO message based on user operations or service requirements, such as a user-initiated verification code query or information sending request. This MO message undergoes radio signal conversion and forwarding by the currently accessed base station, and is ultimately transmitted to the AMF (Access Management Function) providing access and mobility management services to the UE. After receiving the MO message, the AMF identifies the short message service attribute of the message based on the UE's completed SMS over NAS registration information, and forwards the MO message to the SMSF (Service Management Function) serving the UE through a pre-defined service interface. Upon successful reception of the MO message, the SMSF immediately sends an uplink message reception confirmation to the UE, informing the UE that the message has been received by the network side. Simultaneously, it encapsulates the MO message according to the protocol specifications and forwards it to the target SMSC, completing the final message delivery.

[0151] This process enables uplink message transmission from the UE to the SMSC, and the resulting records of recently sent MO messages by the UE are stored by the SMSF. These records serve as important equipment status information for determining whether to skip reachability queries when delivering subsequent MT messages, further improving the overall collaborative logic of the SMS service.

[0152] To facilitate understanding the process of the UE sending an MO message to the SMSC, such as Figure 5 As shown in the figure, this application embodiment also provides a flowchart of a UE sending an MO message to an SMSC. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 5 The process of the UE sending MO messages to the SMSC will be further described.

[0153] This process assumes that the UE has completed SMS over NAS registration and fully realizes the end-to-end interaction of the UE sending MO messages to the SMSC:

[0154] S501: The UE sends an MO message via the AMF.

[0155] After the UE generates an MO message, it forwards the message to the AMF that serves it through the currently accessed base station. The AMF receives the message and identifies its short message service attributes.

[0156] S502: AMF forwards MO messages to SMSF.

[0157] The AMF forwards the received MO message to the SMSF, which provides short message service to the UE, triggering the SMSF's message processing flow.

[0158] S503: The SMSF sends a reception confirmation to the UE.

[0159] After the SMSF successfully receives the MO message, it sends a response to the UE via the AMF confirming receipt of the MO message, informing the UE that the message has been received by the network side.

[0160] S504: The SMSF sends an MO message to the SMSC.

[0161] After encapsulating the MO message according to the protocol specifications, the SMSF forwards it to the target SMSC, thus completing the delivery of the message to the short message center.

[0162] S505: The SMSC sends an MO message report to the UE.

[0163] After the SMSC successfully receives the MO message, it generates a message reception report and sends it to the SMSF. The SMSF then forwards the report to the UE via the AMF, informing the UE that the message has been successfully delivered to the SMSC.

[0164] S506: The UE sends a report confirmation to the SMSC.

[0165] After the UE receives the MO message report, the AMF and SMSF send a response back to the SMSC confirming receipt of the message report, thus completing the entire MO message sending process.

[0166] This process ensures the reliability of MO message transmission through a multi-round confirmation mechanism. At the same time, the SMSF records the event (including timestamp) when the UE sends the MO message. This record will become the key device status information for determining whether to skip the reachability query when delivering the MT message in the future, which further supports the optimization logic of the message delivery scheme in this application.

[0167] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a message delivery device, such as... Figure 6 As shown, the device includes:

[0168] The acquisition module 601 is used to acquire the device status information and network environment information of the user equipment before the SMSF sends a message to the user equipment;

[0169] The judgment module 602 is used to determine, based on the device status information and the network environment information, whether the current message delivery meets the preset conditions for skipping the terminal reachability query;

[0170] The sending module 602 is used to, when the preset conditions are met in this message delivery, skip the reachability query of the user equipment and directly initiate the message delivery process to the user equipment;

[0171] The sending module 602 is further configured to initiate a terminal reachability query to the user equipment if the current message delivery does not meet the preset conditions; and after determining that the message is reachable from the user equipment, initiate a message delivery process to the user equipment.

[0172] In one possible implementation, the sending module 602 is specifically configured to, if the device status information satisfies at least one of the preset conditions and the network environment information satisfies the preset normal network conditions, then the SMSF assesses that the terminal reachability query can be skipped for this message delivery.

[0173] The preset conditions include: the user equipment has completed registration for SMS over NAS based on the access network layer message transmission, and the registration information of the user equipment is in a valid state; the user equipment has sent an uplink message to the SMSF within a preset time window; the SMSF has successfully delivered a downlink message to the user equipment within a preset time window; and the user equipment is currently in the process of transmitting multiple messages.

[0174] The preset normal network conditions include that the network load in the tracking area where the user equipment is located is lower than a preset load threshold, and the signaling link latency between the SMSF and the Access and Mobility Management Function Unit (AMF) that provides services to the user equipment is lower than a preset latency threshold.

[0175] In one possible implementation, the sending module 602 is specifically used to generate a message delivery request carrying a user equipment identifier and message content, and send the message delivery request to the AMF that provides services to the user equipment, so that the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment.

[0176] In one possible implementation, the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment, including: after receiving the message delivery request, the AMF checks the current connection status of the user equipment; if the check result indicates that the user equipment is in a connected state, the AMF sends the message to the user equipment; if the check result indicates that the user equipment is in an idle state, the AMF initiates a paging to the user equipment, and after the paging is successful, sends the message to the user equipment.

[0177] In one possible implementation, the judgment module 602 is further configured to, after the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment, if the SMSF receives a message reception failure message from the user equipment, or does not receive a message reception confirmation message from the user equipment within a preset waiting time, initiate a terminal reachability query for the user equipment to the AMF that provides services to the user equipment, in order to confirm whether the user equipment currently has message reception capability.

[0178] In one possible implementation, the device further includes a registration module, which interacts with the Unified Data Management Unit (UDM) based on the SMS over NAS service activation request, completes the SMS over NAS registration of the user equipment, and then returns a service activation success response to the AMF; the SMS over NAS service activation request is sent by the AMF to the target SMSF after receiving the registration request; the registration request is sent by the user equipment to the AMF, and the registration request carries an identifier indicating that the user equipment supports SMS over NAS.

[0179] In one possible implementation, the sending module 603 is further configured to, after receiving the uplink message, return an uplink message reception confirmation to the user equipment and forward the uplink message to the short message center; the uplink message is forwarded by the AMF to the SMSF.

[0180] This application also provides a control device. The control device may include a memory and a processor. The processor is used to execute the message delivery method described in any of the above embodiments. The memory may be random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile read-only memory (EPROM), registers, hard disk, removable disk, etc.

[0181] Memory can store computer instructions, which, when executed by the processor, can be used to perform message delivery methods. Memory can also store data.

[0182] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. A 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 flow or function according to the embodiments of this application is generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, 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 medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape) or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0183] This application also provides a readable storage medium for storing the methods provided in the above embodiments. For example, RAM, flash memory, ROM, EPROM, registers, hard disk, removable disk, or any other form of storage medium in the art.

[0184] In the embodiments of this application, the terms "first" and "second" (if they exist) are used only as name identifiers and do not represent the order of first and second.

[0185] It should be noted that the various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. Regarding the methods disclosed in the embodiments, since they correspond to the product embodiments disclosed in the embodiments, the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to in the description of the product embodiments.

[0186] The above description of the disclosed embodiments enables those skilled in the art to make or use this application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this application. Therefore, this application is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A message delivery method, characterized by, The method is applied to a short message service function unit (SMSF) and comprises the following steps: Before sending a message to a user equipment, the SMSF acquires device state information and network environment information of the user equipment; Based on the device state information and the network environment information, the SMSF determines whether the preset condition for skipping terminal reachability query is met in the current message delivery; If the preset condition is met in the current message delivery, the SMSF skips the reachability query of the user equipment and directly initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment; If the preset condition is not met in the current message delivery, the SMSF initiates a terminal reachability query to the user equipment, and initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment after determining that the user equipment is message-reachable.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, If the device state information meets at least one of the preset conditions and the network environment information meets a preset network normal condition, the SMSF determines that the terminal reachability query can be skipped in the current message delivery; The preset conditions include that the user equipment has completed short message service over NAS (SMS over NAS) registration and the registration information of the user equipment is in a valid state; and the user equipment has sent an uplink message to the SMSF within a preset time window. The SMSF has successfully delivered a downlink message to the user equipment within a preset time window. The user equipment is in a multi-segment message transmission process. The preset network normal condition includes that the network load of a tracking area where the user equipment is located is lower than a preset load threshold, and the signaling link delay between the SMSF and an access and mobility management function unit (AMF) serving the user equipment is lower than a preset delay threshold.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment, comprising the following steps: The SMSF generates a message delivery request carrying a user equipment identifier and message content, and sends the message delivery request to the AMF serving the user equipment, so that the AMF forwards the message to the user equipment.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, The AMF forwards the message to the user equipment, comprising the following steps: After receiving the message delivery request, the AMF checks the current connection state of the user equipment; If the check result indicates that the user equipment is in a connected state, the AMF sends the message to the user equipment; If the check result indicates that the user equipment is in an idle state, the AMF initiates paging to the user equipment and sends the message to the user equipment after the paging is successful.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises the following steps: After the SMSF initiates a message delivery process to the user equipment, if the SMSF receives a message reception failure message fed back by the user equipment or does not receive a message reception confirmation message fed back by the user equipment within a preset waiting time, the SMSF determines that the user equipment is unreachable.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises the following steps: The user equipment initiates a registration request to the AMF, and the registration request carries an identifier of the capability of the user equipment to support SMS over NAS. After the AMF receives the registration request, the AMF selects a target SMSF and sends an SMS over NAS service activation request to the target SMSF; After the target SMSF completes the SMS over NAS registration of the user equipment based on the SMS over NAS service activation request and interaction with a unified data management unit (UDM), the target SMSF returns a service activation success response to the AMF.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further includes: The user equipment generates an uplink message and forwards the uplink message to an AMF serving the user equipment via a base station; After the AMF receives the uplink message, the AMF forwards the uplink message to an SMSF serving the user equipment; After the SMSF receives the uplink message, the SMSF returns an uplink message reception confirmation to the user equipment and forwards the uplink message to a short message center.

8. A message delivery apparatus, characterized by comprising: The apparatus includes: An acquisition module configured to acquire device state information and network environment information of a user equipment before an SMSF sends a message to the user equipment; A judgment module configured to judge whether a preset condition of skipping a terminal reachability query is met based on the device state information and the network environment information; A sending module configured to, in a case where the preset condition is met, initiate a message delivery process by the SMSF to the user equipment without a reachability query of the user equipment; The sending module is further configured to, in a case where the preset condition is not met, initiate a terminal reachability query by the SMSF to the user equipment, and initiate a message delivery process by the SMSF to the user equipment after determining that the user equipment is message reachable.

9. A control device characterized by comprising: A processor and a memory, the memory is configured to store programs, instructions or codes, and the processor is configured to execute the programs, instructions or codes in the memory to complete the message delivery method according to any one of claims 1-7.

10. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, A computer program is stored, and the computer program is loaded by a processor to execute the message delivery method according to any one of claims 1-7.

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