Service registration method, service discovery method, network side equipment and storage medium

Abstract

The invention provides a service registration method, a service discovery method, network side equipment and a storage medium. The method comprises the following steps: a first service transmission channel management strategy control network element can send a service registration request to a network resource database, and the service registration request is used for registering a network function service provided by the first service transmission channel management strategy control network element; the network function service comprises a policy control service related to service transmission channel management policy control, and the service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element; the configuration information includes information required for discovering the network function service in the network resource database. According to the method, a service registration process related to a service transmission channel management strategy control network element is defined, so that effective fusion of a novel network function and a servitization architecture is realized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a service registration and service discovery method, a network-side device, and a storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] In mobile communication networks, before a user can use data services, an end-to-end service transmission channel needs to be established between the user equipment (UE) and the data network (DN), such as establishing a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session. During this process, the network needs to execute corresponding policy controls, such as making decisions based on Policy Control and Charging (PCC) rules.

[0003] To support the establishment of shorter-path service transmission channels, some existing technologies have proposed policy control architectures oriented towards service transmission channels, such as by introducing dedicated service transmission channel management policy control network elements.

[0004] However, with the adoption of Service Based Architecture (SBA) in 5G networks, there is currently no clear solution for how to integrate the aforementioned policy control architecture for service transmission channels with the service-based architecture, and improvements are urgently needed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a service registration and service discovery method, a network-side device, and a storage medium for defining the service registration or service discovery process related to policy control in a policy control architecture for service transmission channels.

[0006] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, this application is implemented as follows: Firstly, a service registration method is provided, applied to a first service transmission channel management policy control network element, including: A service registration request is sent to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register the network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries the configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0007] Secondly, a service registration method is provided for use in a network resource database, including: A service registration request is received from a first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The service registration request is used to register network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database. Save the configuration information to complete the registration of the network function service.

[0008] Thirdly, a service discovery method is provided, applied to source network functional entities, including: During the process of establishing the first service transmission channel for users, a service discovery request is sent to the network resource database. The service discovery request carries query parameters, which are used by the network resource database to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity. The target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control. Receive a service discovery response sent by the network resource database, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0009] Fourthly, a service discovery method is provided, applied to a network resource database, including: Receive a service discovery request sent by a source network function entity, wherein the service discovery request is sent by the source network function entity during the process of establishing a first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters. Select a target network function entity for the source network function entity according to the query parameters, wherein the target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database, and the target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control. A service discovery response is sent to the source network function entity, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0010] Fifthly, a service registration device is provided, applied to a first service transmission channel management policy control network element, comprising: The first sending module is configured to send a service registration request to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0011] Sixthly, a service registration device is provided for use in a network resource database, comprising: The first receiving module is configured to receive a service registration request from a first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The service registration request is used to register network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database. A storage module is used to save the configuration information in order to complete the registration of the network function services.

[0012] In a seventh aspect, a service discovery apparatus is provided, applied to a source network functional entity, comprising: The first sending module is used to send a service discovery request to the network resource database during the process of establishing a user-oriented first service transmission channel. The service discovery request carries query parameters, which are used by the network resource database to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity. The target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control. The first receiving module is configured to receive a service discovery response sent by the network resource database, wherein the service discovery response carries configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0013] Eighthly, a service discovery apparatus is provided for use with a network resource database, comprising: The first receiving module is used to receive a service discovery request sent by a source network function entity, wherein the service discovery request is sent by the source network function entity during the process of establishing a first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters. The entity selection module is used to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity according to the query parameters, wherein the target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database, and the target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control. The first sending module is used to send a service discovery response to the source network function entity, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0014] A ninth aspect provides a network-side device, characterized in that it includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing a program or instructions executable on the processor, wherein the program or instructions, when executed by the processor, implement the steps of the service registration method as described in the first or second aspect, or implement the steps of the service discovery method as described in the third or fourth aspect.

[0015] A tenth aspect provides a computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that a program or instructions are stored on the storage medium, which, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the service registration method as described in the first or second aspect, or the steps of the service discovery method as described in the third or fourth aspect.

[0016] Eleventhly, a computer program product is provided, characterized in that the computer program product is stored in a storage medium, and the computer program product is executed by at least one processor to implement the steps of the service registration method as described in the first or second aspect, or to implement the steps of the service discovery method as described in the third or fourth aspect.

[0017] In this embodiment, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element can register services with the network resource database, clarifying the service registration process related to the service transmission channel management policy control network element. This effectively integrates the new network function with the service-oriented architecture, enabling other network functions (such as source network function entities) to discover target network function entities related to service transmission channel management policy control from the network resource database during the establishment of user-oriented service transmission channels. This provides the necessary policy control capability foundation for establishing service transmission channels with better paths, ensuring the deployability and interoperability of the new policy control architecture in actual networks; improving the automation level and operational efficiency of network policy decisions; and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the network architecture, supporting the smooth evolution of network services. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in 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 recorded in this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the policy control architecture for service transmission channels provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a logical schematic diagram of the first service transmission channel management strategy control network element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel policy management provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a service registration method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a service registration method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a service registration method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a service discovery method provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service registration device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service registration device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service discovery device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0035] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service discovery device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0036] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this application, the technical solutions in this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings of one or more embodiments. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort should fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0037] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in this application and the claims are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, in this application and the claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0038] In order to effectively integrate the policy control architecture for business transmission channels with the service-oriented architecture, this application proposes a service registration method and a service discovery method.

[0039] The service registration method and service discovery method proposed in this application can be used for service registration and service discovery of network function entities related to the service transmission channel management of mobile communication users, respectively.

[0040] Based on the technical solutions proposed in this application, a service-oriented process system for policy management of a new network architecture for mobile communication user service transmission channel management can be constructed. This system can be applied to: ① constructing the shortest and optimal service transmission channel, such as the nearest access scenario in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks; ② implementing local characteristic services based on the visited location policy, such as ensuring the quality of special services in scenic spots, shopping malls, and other scenarios through a signed visited location policy; ③ service diversion based on proximity, such as flexibly selecting service diversion anchor points through the visited location policy to achieve local traffic diversion in scenarios such as museums. In the above scenarios, the technical solutions proposed in this application enable service-oriented addressing of the service transmission channel policy management network element during the service transmission channel establishment process, providing support for the signaling process of the above service scenarios.

[0041] The service registration method and service discovery method proposed in this application are based on a policy control architecture oriented towards the service transmission channel, which can be described as follows: Figure 1 As shown. Reference Figure 1 It can be seen that the policy control architecture for the service transmission channel may include: access and mobility management network element 111 located in the core network 11, service transmission channel control plane network element 112, service transmission channel user plane network element 113, first service transmission channel management policy control network element 114, user data network element 115, network resource database 116, and other core network elements (such as network data analytics function (NWDAF)). User terminal 13 can access the network through the radio access network (RAN) 12 and communicate with relevant network elements of the core network 11 through the RAN 12, such as the access and mobility management network element and the service transmission channel user plane network element 113. Among them: (1) Access and Mobility Management Network Element 111 is responsible for connecting to radio access network elements (such as base stations), interacting with users / radio access networks to exchange NAS signaling, and completing functions such as authentication, mobility management and security management for access users (similar to the relevant functions of 5G AMF and 4G MME); in the process of establishing service transmission channels for user terminals (hereinafter referred to as users), it is responsible for selecting the service transmission channel control plane network element (“access” module).

[0042] (2) The service transmission channel control plane network element 112 consists of two modules: “access” and “anchor point”. The “access” module 1121 controls the service transmission channel user plane network element (“access” module) 1131 connected to the wireless access network; the “anchor point” module 1122 controls the service transmission channel user plane network element (“anchor point” module) 1132 connected to the external data network; the “anchor point” module and the “access” module of the service transmission channel control plane network element responsible for general user services (such as public network services) are usually integrated into the same service transmission channel control plane network element; the “anchor point” module and the “access” module of the service transmission channel control plane network element responsible for dedicated user services (such as private network services) can be located in the same service transmission channel control plane network element or distributed in different service transmission channel control plane network elements.

[0043] (3) The policy control and charging (PCC) network element related to service transmission channel management consists of two logical modules: "visited location policy" and "home location policy". Specifically, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element 114 includes visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element 1141 and home location service transmission channel management policy control network element 1142. The first service transmission channel management policy control network element can adopt a distributed architecture, including a backend user policy database and a frontend user PCC policy control function. The "visited location policy" module and the "home location policy" module refer to specific service processing logical units formed by the cooperation of the user PCC policy database function and the user PCC policy control function.

[0044] Figure 2 A logical schematic diagram of the first service transmission channel management strategy control network element in an embodiment of this application is shown. For example... Figure 2 As shown: (1) The "Visit Location Policy" module (i.e., Visited Location Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Element 1141) of the user PCC policy control network element is mainly responsible for the management of PCC policies at the mobile user access location (visit location) and the unified PCC policies across the entire network. This includes: selecting control plane network elements for service transmission channels ("anchor point" module); storing and executing unified PCC policies across the entire network; selecting user plane network elements for service transmission channels ("access" module); and implementing visited location policy management based on internal and external triggering conditions, such as network analysis results from NWDAF and requests to change service coverage from Application Function (AF). A visited location policy refers to a policy configured in the visited location service transmission channel management policy control element 1141 or generated based on certain rules, and issued by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control element 1141.

[0045] (2) The "Home Location Policy" module of the user PCC policy control network element (i.e., the Home Location Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element 1142) is mainly responsible for the policy management of the user's home location subscription, and can be implemented in accordance with existing technology. The home location policy refers to the policy configured in the Home Location Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element 1142 or generated based on certain rules, and is issued by the Home Location Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element 1142.

[0046] In some embodiments, for home users (mobile users not roaming), the "Visit Policy" module and the "Home Policy" module of the user PCC policy network element can be located in the same PCC policy network element; that is, the same PCC policy network element simultaneously possesses the functions of both the "Visit Policy" module and the "Home Policy" module. For roaming users, the "Visit Policy" module and the "Home Policy" module of the user PCC policy network element are located in different PCC policy network elements; that is, the "Visit Policy" module and the "Home Policy" module of the user PCC policy network element are implemented by different PCC policy network elements.

[0047] In some embodiments, the access and mobility management network element sends a request for the user to establish a service transmission channel to the selected service transmission channel control plane network element (“access” module). The service transmission channel control plane network element (“access” module) addresses the PCC policy control network element (“visited location policy” module) related to service transmission channel management to obtain the session management policy and determines whether the network element can facilitate the service transmission channel name identifier (e.g., S-NSSAI+DNN for 5G, APN for 4G), that is, whether it is integrated with the corresponding service transmission channel control plane network element (“anchor” module) as the same service transmission channel control plane network element. If yes, the function of the service transmission channel control plane network element (“anchor” module) is executed; if not, the corresponding service transmission channel control plane network element (“anchor” module) can be further addressed based on the obtained service transmission channel management policy, and the request message for establishing a service transmission channel for the user is sent to the corresponding service transmission channel control plane network element (“anchor” module). The service transmission channel control plane network element (“anchor point module”) executes the subsequent process of establishing a service transmission channel for the user and corresponding policy control (similar to the 5G anchor point SMF and the 4G PGW-C / PGW).

[0048] In some embodiments, an interface and business process are added between the service transmission channel management policy control network element (“visited location” module) and the service transmission channel management policy control network element (“home location” module) to handle possible policy conflicts.

[0049] The service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel strategy management proposed in this application embodiment can be as follows: Figure 3As shown in the diagram, under this architecture, two different network function entities are defined for the first service transmission channel management policy control network element 114: the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF) 1141 and the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., H-PCF) 1142, and corresponding network function types are defined, including: the network function type of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., nfType is V-PCF) and the network function type of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., nfType is H-PCF). For the above two different network function types, network function service names related to service transmission channel policy control are designed respectively, including: the policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol) and the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0050] It is readily apparent that the service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel policy management proposed in this application includes service transmission channel management policy control network elements in the "Visit Location Policy" module and the "Home Location Policy" module. It defines two different network function entities: the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF) and the home location service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., H-PCF), and defines corresponding network function types, including: the network function type of the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., nfType is V-PCF) and the network function type of the home location service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., nfType is H-PCF). Other network elements, when performing service discovery using the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element and the home location service transmission channel management policy control network element, can efficiently, concisely, and clearly implement the network element addressing scheme.

[0051] Based on the above architecture, this application proposes a service registration method and a service discovery method, which will be described in detail below.

[0052] like Figure 4 As shown in the embodiment of this application, a communication method can be applied to a first service transmission channel management strategy control network element. The method may include: Step 401: Send a service registration request to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register the network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries the configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0053] Optionally, after step 401, Figure 4 The method shown may also include: Receive the registration response returned by the network resource database after the network function service registration is completed.

[0054] Network function services are defined by protocols, and each functional network element (NF) has its own network function services (NFServices).

[0055] The first service transmission channel management policy control network element refers to the network element that controls service transmission channel management policies within the service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel policy management. The network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element are policy control services related to service transmission channel management policies, such as policy control services related to visited or home PCC policies and / or network-wide unified PCC policies.

[0056] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. The process by which the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element registers services with the network resource database may include: Step 501: The visited service transmission channel management policy control network element sends a service registration request to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register the network function service provided by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. The service registration request carries the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes the information required to discover the network function service in the network resource database.

[0058] Step 502: The network resource database stores the configuration information of the network element instance for the management policy control of the visited service transmission channel.

[0059] Step 503: The network resource database returns a registration response to the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0060] exist Figure 5 In the example shown, the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of network elements controlled by the management policy of the visited service transmission channel; For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: V-PCF.

[0061] 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0062] For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: the policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0063] 3) Attribute information of network elements that control the management strategy of the visited service transmission channel.

[0064] For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channels, such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information + Data Network Name (S-NSSAI + DNN) used in 5G networks and Access Point Name (APN) used in 4G networks. b. The service area information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy, such as tailist and severingScope; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as the name of the visited location policy; d. User range information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges. The user range supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be understood as the number range supported by this visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. If a user number is used for addressing later, as long as the user number is within this number range, a successful match can be achieved.

[0065] In other embodiments, such as Figure 6 As shown, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. The process by which the home service transmission channel management policy control network element registers services with the network resource database may include: Step 601: The home service transmission channel management policy control network element sends a service registration request to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register the network function services provided by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. The service registration request carries the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes the information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0066] Step 602: The network resource database stores the configuration information of the network element instance for the home service transmission channel management policy control.

[0067] Step 603: The network resource database returns a registration response to the home service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0068] exist Figure 6 In the example shown, the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of network elements controlling the home service transmission channel management strategy; For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: H-PCF.

[0069] 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0070] For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0071] 3) Attribute information of network elements controlling the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0072] For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0073] Figure 4 The illustrated embodiment proposes a service registration method in which the first service transmission channel management policy control network element can register services with the network resource database. This clarifies the service registration process related to the service transmission channel management policy control network element, thereby achieving effective integration of this new network function with the service-oriented architecture. This allows other network functions (such as source network function entities) to discover target network function entities related to service transmission channel management policy control from the network resource database during the establishment of user-oriented service transmission channels. This provides the necessary policy control capability foundation for establishing service transmission channels with better paths, ensuring the deployability and interoperability of the new policy control architecture in actual networks; improving the automation level and operational efficiency of network policy decisions; and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the network architecture, supporting the smooth evolution of network services.

[0074] like Figure 7 As shown in the embodiments of this application, a service registration method is also proposed. This method can be applied to a network resource database and may include: Step 701: Receive a service registration request from the first service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the service registration request is used to register network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element, the network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control, the service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element, the configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0075] Step 702: Save the configuration information to complete the registration of the network function service.

[0076] Optionally, Figure 7 The service registration method shown may further include: Send a registration response to the first service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0077] The first service transmission channel management policy control network element refers to the network element that controls service transmission channel management policies within the service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel policy management. The network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element are policy control services related to service transmission channel management policies, and policy control services related to visited or home PCC policies and / or network-wide unified PCC policies.

[0078] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0079] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: V-PCF.

[0080] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0081] 3) Attribute information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channels, such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information + Data Network Name (S-NSSAI + DNN) used in 5G networks and Access Point Name (APN) used in 4G networks. b. The service area information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy, such as tailist and severingScope; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as the name of the visited location policy; d. The user range information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0082] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the network element controlled by the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0083] For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: H-PCF.

[0084] 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0085] For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0086] 3) Attribute information of network elements controlling the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0087] For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0088] Figure 7The illustrated embodiment proposes a service registration method in which the network resource database can receive and respond to the service registration of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. This clarifies the service registration process related to the service transmission channel management policy control network element, thereby achieving effective integration of this novel network function with the service-oriented architecture. This allows other network functions (such as source network function entities) to discover target network function entities related to service transmission channel management policy control from the network resource database during the establishment of user-oriented service transmission channels. This provides the necessary policy control capability foundation for establishing service transmission channels with better paths, ensuring the deployability and interoperability of the novel policy control architecture in actual networks; improving the automation level and operational efficiency of network policy decisions; and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the network architecture, supporting the smooth evolution of network services.

[0089] In the service transport channel management process, the source network function entity needs to select the target network function entity. Therefore, the source network function entity (e.g., V-PCF) proactively sends a service discovery request message to the network resource database (e.g., NRF), including the required query parameters (i.e., the conditions used by the network resource database to filter suitable target network function entities). After receiving the service discovery request from the source network function entity, the network resource database filters target network function entities (e.g., H-PCF) that meet the query parameters.

[0090] The source network function entity is a network function entity (e.g., V-PCF) that actively initiates a service discovery request to find and select a specific service during the service discovery process. It is the service consumer.

[0091] The target network function entity is the object sought and selected in the service discovery process. It is a network function entity (e.g., H-PCF) that can provide the required service and meets the screening criteria. It is the service provider.

[0092] like Figure 8 As shown in the embodiments of this application, a service discovery method is also proposed, which can be applied to source network functional entities. The method may include: Step 801: During the process of establishing the first service transmission channel for users, a service discovery request is sent to the network resource database. The service discovery request carries query parameters, which are used by the network resource database to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity. The target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control.

[0093] Among them, the target network function service provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is a network function service related to the service transmission channel management policy. For example, the target network function service may be a network function service related to the PCC policy and the network-wide unified PCC policy.

[0094] The query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: Network function type information of the source network function entity; Network function type information of the target network function entity; Identification information of the target network function service; The key matching parameter used to determine the target network functional entity is different when the source network functional entity and / or the target network functional entity are different. Examples will be given below.

[0095] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0096] In some embodiments, the source network function entity is an access and mobility management function, and the target network function entity is a visited service transport channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: access and mobility management network element (e.g., AMF).

[0097] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0098] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), and serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0099] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope.

[0100] In other embodiments, the source network function entity is a service transport channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a visited service transport channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0101] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0102] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), where serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0103] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope; d. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, IMS DNN; optionally, this matching parameter is only required for the service type corresponding to some service transmission channel names. e. Identifying information about the visited location policy, such as the name of the visited location policy; f. Identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element. For example, the nfInstanceid of the target PCF. Optionally, this matching parameter can be used when the unique identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element is obtained from the access and mobility management network element.

[0104] In other embodiments, the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0105] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0106] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0107] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, DNN+S-NSSAI.

[0108] In other embodiments, the source network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the target network function entity is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0109] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0110] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0111] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities. For example, these key matching parameters may include: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi.

[0112] Step 802: Receive the service discovery response sent by the network resource database, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: V-PCF.

[0114] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0115] 3) Attribute information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channels, such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information + Data Network Name (S-NSSAI + DNN) used in 5G networks and Access Point Name (APN) used in 4G networks. b. The service area information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy, such as tailist and severingScope; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as the name of the visited location policy; d. The user range information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0116] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element; for example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: H-PCF.

[0117] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0118] 3) Attribute information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0119] Figure 8 The service discovery method proposed in the illustrated embodiment allows the source network function entity to discover target network function services pre-registered in the network resource database by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. This clarifies the service discovery process related to the service transmission channel management policy, thereby achieving effective integration of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element with the service-oriented architecture. This provides the necessary policy control capability foundation for establishing service transmission channels with better paths, ensuring the deployability and interoperability of the new policy control architecture in actual networks; improving the automation level and operational efficiency of network policy decisions; and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the network architecture, supporting the smooth evolution of network services.

[0120] like Figure 9 As shown in the embodiments of this application, a service discovery method is also proposed, which can be applied to a network resource database. This method may include: Step 901: Receive a service discovery request sent by the source network function entity, wherein the service discovery request is sent by the source network function entity during the process of establishing a first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters.

[0121] Among them, the target network function service provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is a network function service related to the service transmission channel management policy. For example, the target network function service may be a network function service related to the PCC policy and the network-wide unified PCC policy.

[0122] The query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: Network function type information of the source network function entity; Network function type information of the target network function entity; Identification information of the target network function service; The key matching parameter used to determine the target network functional entity is different when the source network functional entity and / or the target network functional entity are different. Examples will be given below.

[0123] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0124] Step 902: Select a target network function entity for the source network function entity according to the query parameters, wherein the target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database, and the target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control.

[0125] In some embodiments, step 902 may specifically include: Based on the network function type information of the target network function entity and the identification information of the target network function service in the query parameters, the target network function type and the identification of the target network function service are determined respectively. Among the network entities that have the identifier of the target network function service and belong to the target network function type, the target network function entity is obtained by matching according to the key matching parameter in the query parameters.

[0126] Step 903: Send a service discovery response to the source network function entity, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0127] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: V-PCF.

[0128] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0129] 3) Attribute information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channels, such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information + Data Network Name (S-NSSAI + DNN) used in 5G networks and Access Point Name (APN) used in 4G networks. b. The service area information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy, such as tailist and severingScope; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as the name of the visited location policy; d. The user range information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0130] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element; for example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: H-PCF.

[0131] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0132] 3) Attribute information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0133] For a detailed explanation of steps 902 and 903 above, please refer to the following text. Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 The steps for executing network resource data in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0134] Figure 9 The service discovery method proposed in the illustrated embodiment allows the network resource database to discover target network function services pre-registered in the network resource database by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element based on service discovery requests from source network function entities. This clarifies the service discovery process related to the service transmission channel management policy, thereby achieving effective integration of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element with the service-oriented architecture. This provides the necessary policy control capability foundation for establishing service transmission channels with better paths, ensuring the deployability and interoperability of the new policy control architecture in actual networks; improving the automation level and operational efficiency of network policy decisions; and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the network architecture, supporting the smooth evolution of network services.

[0135] To better understand the service discovery method proposed in this application, four specific examples are given below to illustrate the method.

[0136] In the first example, the source network functional entity is the access and mobility management function, and the target network functional entity is the visited service transport channel management policy control network element. In this case, such as... Figure 10 As shown, a service discovery method proposed in this application may include: Step 1001: The access and mobility management function sends a service discovery request to the network resource database. The service discovery request is sent by the access and mobility management function during the establishment of the first service transmission channel for the user, and the service discovery request carries query parameters.

[0137] The query parameters carried in a service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: access and mobility management network element (e.g., AMF).

[0138] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0139] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), and serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0140] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope.

[0141] Step 1002: The network resource database selects a target network function entity for the access and mobility management function based on the query parameters. The target network function entity includes a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the visited service transmission channel management policy control.

[0142] Specifically, in step 1002, the network resource database may perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the access and mobility management network element: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is an access and mobility management network element; the network function type of the target network function entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0143] ③ Based on key matching parameters, perform matching of target service transmission channel management policy control network elements, including one of the following: Scenario 1: Match the target visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user location information (e.g., TAI) or service area information (e.g., servingScope); Scenario 2: Match the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user identification information (e.g., supi, gpsi).

[0144] Step 1003: The network resource database returns a service discovery response to the access and mobility management function, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0145] For example, continuing the example above, the network resource database can return the configuration information of the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element to the access and mobility management network element.

[0146] In the second example, the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, as follows: Figure 11 As shown, a service discovery method proposed in this application may include: Step 1101: The service transmission channel control plane network element sends a service discovery request to the network resource database. The service discovery request is sent by the service transmission channel control plane network element during the process of establishing the first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters.

[0147] The query parameters carried in a service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0148] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0149] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), where serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0150] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope; d. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, IMS DNN; optionally, this matching parameter is only required for the service type corresponding to some service transmission channel names. e. Identifying information about the visited location policy, such as the name of the visited location policy; f. Identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element. For example, the nfInstanceid of the target PCF. Optionally, this matching parameter can be used when the unique identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element is obtained from the access and mobility management network element.

[0151] Step 1102: The network resource database selects a target network function entity for the service transmission channel control plane network element according to the query parameters. The target network function entity includes a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the visited service transmission channel management policy control.

[0152] Specifically, in step 1102, the network resource database can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the network element of the service transmission channel control plane: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element; the network function type of the target network function entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0153] ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0154] ③ Based on key matching parameters, perform matching of target visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements, including one of the following: Scenario 1: Match the target visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user location information (e.g., TAI) or service area information (e.g., servingScope); Scenario 2: Match the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element based on service area information (e.g., servingScope) or user location information (e.g., TAI), and the identification information of the first service transmission channel (e.g., IMS DNN). Only for service types (e.g., voice services) corresponding to certain service transmission channel name identifiers (e.g., IMS DNN), the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element needs to be selected based on the above matching parameters. Scenario 3: Match the target visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on the visited location policy identification information (such as the name of the visited location policy); Scenario 4: Match the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user identification information (e.g., supi, gpsi).

[0155] Scenario 5: The target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched based on its identification information (e.g., the nfInstanceid of the target PCF). The unique identification information of the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be obtained from the access and mobility management network element.

[0156] Scenario 6: Service discovery of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is performed on the network resource database according to the methods described in Scenario 1, Scenario 2, Scenario 3, or Scenario 4 above. If the network resource database matches multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements based on the key matching parameters, it is further determined whether there is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element among the multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements. If so, the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element is determined as the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. If there is no visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element, or if there is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element but it is unavailable, other network elements are selected from the multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements as the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0157] Step 1103: The network resource database returns a service discovery response to the network element of the service transmission channel control plane, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0158] For example, continuing the example above, the network resource database can return the configuration information of the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element to the service transmission channel control plane network element.

[0159] In the third example, the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, as follows: Figure 12 As shown, a service discovery method proposed in this application may include: Step 1201: The service transmission channel control plane network element sends a service discovery request to the network resource database. The service discovery request is sent by the service transmission channel control plane network element during the process of establishing the first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters.

[0160] The query parameters carried in a service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0161] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0162] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0163] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, DNN+S-NSSAI.

[0164] Step 1202: The network resource database selects a target network function entity for the service transmission channel control plane network element according to the query parameters. The target network function entity includes a home service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the home service transmission channel management policy control.

[0165] Specifically, in step 1202, the network resource database can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the network element of the service transmission channel control plane: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element; and the network function type of the target network function entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0166] ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0167] ③ Based on key matching parameters, perform matching of target home location service transmission channel management policy control network elements, including one of the following: Case 1: Match the target home service transmission channel management policy control network element based on the identification information of the first service transmission channel (e.g., DNN+S-NSSAI); Scenario 2: Match the target home region's service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user identification information (e.g., supi, gpsi).

[0168] Step 1203: The network resource database returns a service discovery response to the network element of the service transmission channel control plane, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0169] For example, continuing the example above, the network resource database can return the configuration information of the target home service transmission channel management policy control network element to the service transmission channel control plane network element.

[0170] In the fourth example, the source network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the target network function entity is the home service transmission channel management policy control element. In this case, as follows... Figure 13 As shown, a service discovery method proposed in this application may include: Step 1301: The visited service transmission channel management policy control network element sends a service discovery request to the network resource database. The service discovery request is sent by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element during the establishment of the first service transmission channel for the user. The service discovery request carries query parameters.

[0171] The query parameters carried in a service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0172] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0173] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0174] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities. For example, these key matching parameters may include: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi.

[0175] Step 1302: The network resource database selects a target network function entity for the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element according to the query parameters. The target network function entity includes the home service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the home service transmission channel management policy control.

[0176] Specifically, in step 1302, the network resource database can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the network element according to the visited service transmission channel management policy: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element; and the network function type of the target network function entity is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0177] ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0178] ③ Match the target home location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on key matching parameters: that is, match the target home location service transmission channel management policy control network element to which the user belongs based on user identification information (e.g., SUPI, GPSI).

[0179] Step 1303: The network resource database returns a service discovery response to the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0180] For example, continuing the example above, the network resource database can return the configuration information of the target home service transmission channel management policy control network element to the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0181] In the examples above, the network resource database can discover target network function services pre-registered in the network resource database by the visited / home service transmission channel management policy control network element based on service discovery requests from the source network function entity. This clarifies the service discovery process related to the service transmission channel management policy, thereby achieving effective integration of the visited / home service transmission channel management policy control network element with the service-oriented architecture. This provides the necessary policy control capability foundation for establishing service transmission channels with better paths, ensuring the deployability and interoperability of the new policy control architecture in actual networks; improving the automation level and operational efficiency of network policy decisions; and enhancing the flexibility and scalability of the network architecture, supporting the smooth evolution of network services.

[0182] In summary, the service registration method and service discovery method proposed in this application improve the service-oriented method and process for managing business transmission channels and fill the gap in the prior art in this regard.

[0183] The service registration method and service discovery method proposed in this application are not only applicable to the transformation of existing 4G / 5G network core network main equipment, but also applicable to related network elements of subsequent generations of mobile communication networks (such as 6G) core networks.

[0184] The above describes a service registration method and a service discovery method proposed in the embodiments of this application. Corresponding to the above method embodiments, this application also proposes a service registration apparatus and a service discovery apparatus, which will be described below.

[0185] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service registration device 1400 provided in one embodiment of this application. The service registration device 1400 can be applied to a first service transmission channel management policy control network element. Please refer to... Figure 14In one software implementation, the service registration device 1400 may include a first sending module 1401.

[0186] The first sending module 1401 is used to send a service registration request to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register the network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries the configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0187] Optionally, the service registration device 1400 may further include: a first receiving module, configured to receive a registration response returned by the network resource database after the network function service registration is completed.

[0188] Network function services are defined by protocols, and each functional network element (NF) has its own network function services (NFServices).

[0189] The first service transmission channel management policy control network element refers to the network element that controls service transmission channel management policies within the service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel policy management. The network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element are policy control services related to service transmission channel management policies, such as policy control services related to visited or home PCC policies and / or network-wide unified PCC policies.

[0190] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0191] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of network elements controlled by the management policy of the visited service transmission channel; 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0192] 3) Attribute information of network elements that control the management strategy of the visited service transmission channel.

[0193] For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channel; b. The service area information supported by the network element controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element; d. User range information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy control.

[0194] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the network element controlled by the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0195] 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0196] 3) Attribute information of network elements controlling the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0197] For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0198] Figure 14 The service registration device 1400 shown can achieve Figure 4 The above describes a service registration method that achieves the same technical effect. Relevant aspects can be referenced from each other, and will not be described repeatedly here.

[0199] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service registration device 1500 provided in one embodiment of this application. The service registration device 1500 can be applied to a network resource database. Please refer to... Figure 15 In one software implementation, the service registration device 1500 may include a first receiving module 1501 and a storage module 1502.

[0200] The first receiving module 1501 is configured to receive a service registration request from a first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The service registration request is used to register network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

[0201] Storage module 1502 is used to save the configuration information to complete the registration of the network function service.

[0202] Optionally, the service registration device 1500 may further include: a first sending module, used to send a registration response to the first service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0203] The first service transmission channel management policy control network element refers to the network element that controls service transmission channel management policies within the service-oriented architecture related to service transmission channel policy management. The network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element are policy control services related to service transmission channel management policies, such as policy control services related to visited or home PCC policies and / or network-wide unified PCC policies.

[0204] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0205] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of network elements controlled by the management strategy of the visited service transmission channel.

[0206] 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0207] 3) Attribute information of network elements that control the management strategy of the visited service transmission channel.

[0208] For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channel; b. The service area information supported by the network element controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element; d. User range information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy control.

[0209] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the network element controlled by the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0210] 2) Identification information of network function services.

[0211] 3) Attribute information of network elements controlling the home service transmission channel management strategy.

[0212] For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0213] Figure 15 The service registration device 1500 shown can achieve Figure 7 The above describes a service registration method that achieves the same technical effect. Relevant aspects can be referenced from each other, and will not be described repeatedly here.

[0214] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of a service discovery device 1600 provided in one embodiment of this application. The service discovery device 1600 can be applied to source network functional entities. Please refer to... Figure 16 In one software implementation, the service discovery device 1600 may include a first sending module 1601 and a first receiving module 1602.

[0215] The first sending module 1601 is used to send a service discovery request to the network resource database during the process of establishing a user-oriented first service transmission channel. The service discovery request carries query parameters, which are used by the network resource database to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity. The target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control.

[0216] Among them, the target network function service provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is a network function service related to the service transmission channel management policy. For example, the target network function service may be a network function service related to the PCC policy and the network-wide unified PCC policy.

[0217] The query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: Network function type information of the source network function entity; Network function type information of the target network function entity; Identification information of the target network function service; The key matching parameter used to determine the target network functional entity is different when the source network functional entity and / or the target network functional entity are different. Examples will be given below.

[0218] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0219] In some embodiments, the source network function entity is an access and mobility management function, and the target network function entity is a visited service transport channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: access and mobility management network element (e.g., AMF).

[0220] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0221] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), and serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0222] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope.

[0223] In other embodiments, the source network function entity is a service transport channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a visited service transport channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0224] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0225] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), where serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0226] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope; d. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, IMS DNN; optionally, this matching parameter is only required for the service type corresponding to some service transmission channel names. e. Identifying information about the visited location policy, such as the name of the visited location policy; f. Identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element. For example, the nfInstanceid of the target PCF. Optionally, this matching parameter can be used when the unique identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element is obtained from the access and mobility management network element.

[0227] In other embodiments, the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0228] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0229] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0230] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, DNN+S-NSSAI.

[0231] In other embodiments, the source network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the target network function entity is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0232] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0233] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0234] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities. For example, these key matching parameters may include: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi.

[0235] The first receiving module 1602 is used to receive a service discovery response sent by the network resource database, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0236] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: V-PCF.

[0237] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0238] 3) Attribute information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channels, such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information + Data Network Name (S-NSSAI + DNN) used in 5G networks and Access Point Name (APN) used in 4G networks. b. The service area information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy, such as tailist and severingScope; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as the name of the visited location policy; d. The user range information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0239] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element; for example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: H-PCF.

[0240] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0241] 3) Attribute information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0242] Figure 16 The service discovery device 1600 shown can achieve Figure 8 This paper presents a service discovery method that achieves the same technical effect. Relevant aspects can be referenced from each other, and will not be described repeatedly here.

[0243] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a service discovery device 1700 provided in one embodiment of this application. The service discovery device 1700 can be applied to a network resource database. Please refer to... Figure 17 In one software implementation, the service discovery device 1700 may include: a first receiving module 1701, an entity selection module 1702, and a first sending module 1703.

[0244] The first receiving module 1701 is used to receive a service discovery request sent by a source network function entity, wherein the service discovery request is sent by the source network function entity during the process of establishing a first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters.

[0245] Among them, the target network function service provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is a network function service related to the service transmission channel management policy. For example, the target network function service may be a network function service related to the PCC policy and the network-wide unified PCC policy.

[0246] The query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: Network function type information of the source network function entity; Network function type information of the target network function entity; Identification information of the target network function service; The key matching parameter used to determine the target network functional entity is different when the source network functional entity and / or the target network functional entity are different. Examples will be given below.

[0247] The first service transmission channel management strategy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

[0248] The entity selection module 1702 is used to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity according to the query parameters. The target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control.

[0249] In some embodiments, the entity selection module 1702 may specifically be used for: Based on the network function type information of the target network function entity and the identification information of the target network function service in the query parameters, the target network function type and the identification of the target network function service are determined respectively. Among the network entities that have the identifier of the target network function service and belong to the target network function type, the target network function entity is obtained by matching according to the key matching parameter in the query parameters.

[0250] In the first example, the source network function entity is the access and mobility management function, and the target network function entity is the visited service transport channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: access and mobility management network element (e.g., AMF).

[0251] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0252] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), and serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0253] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope.

[0254] Accordingly, the entity selection module 1702 can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the access and mobility management network element: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is an access and mobility management network element; the network function type of the target network function entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0255] ③ Based on key matching parameters, perform matching of target service transmission channel management policy control network elements, including one of the following: Scenario 1: Match the target visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user location information (e.g., TAI) or service area information (e.g., servingScope); Scenario 2: Match the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user identification information (e.g., supi, gpsi).

[0256] In the second example, the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0257] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type), for example, target-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0258] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName), where serviceName is: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0259] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi b. The user's location information, such as TAI; c. Service area information of network elements controlled by the visitor's service transmission channel management policy, such as servingScope; d. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, IMS DNN; optionally, this matching parameter is only required for the service type corresponding to some service transmission channel names. e. Identifying information about the visited location policy, such as the name of the visited location policy; f. Identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element. For example, the nfInstanceid of the target PCF. Optionally, this matching parameter can be used when the unique identification information of the visited service transport channel management policy control network element is obtained from the access and mobility management network element.

[0260] Accordingly, the entity selection module 1702 can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the control plane network element of the service transmission channel: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element; the network function type of the target network function entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0261] ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0262] ③ Based on key matching parameters, perform matching of target visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements, including one of the following: Scenario 1: Match the target visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user location information (e.g., TAI) or service area information (e.g., servingScope); Scenario 2: Match the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element based on service area information (e.g., servingScope) or user location information (e.g., TAI), and the identification information of the first service transmission channel (e.g., IMS DNN). Only for service types (e.g., voice services) corresponding to certain service transmission channel name identifiers (e.g., IMS DNN), the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element needs to be selected based on the above matching parameters. Scenario 3: Match the target visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element based on the visited location policy identification information (such as the name of the visited location policy); Scenario 4: Match the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user identification information (e.g., supi, gpsi).

[0263] Scenario 5: The target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched based on its identification information (e.g., the nfInstanceid of the target PCF). The unique identification information of the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be obtained from the access and mobility management network element.

[0264] Case 6: Service discovery of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is performed on the network resource database according to the methods described in Case 1, Case 2, Case 3, or Case 4 above. If the entity selection module 1702 matches multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements according to the key matching parameters, it further determines whether there is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element among the multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements. If so, the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element is determined as the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. If there is no visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element, or if there is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element but it is unavailable, other network elements are selected from the multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements as the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0265] In the third example, the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network function entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: service transmission channel control plane network element (e.g., SMF).

[0266] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0267] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0268] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities, for example, the key matching parameters may include at least one of the following: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi; b. Identification information of the first service transmission channel, for example, DNN+S-NSSAI.

[0269] Accordingly, the entity selection module 1702 can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the control plane network element of the service transmission channel: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element; and the network function type of the target network function entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0270] ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0271] ③ Based on key matching parameters, perform matching of target home location service transmission channel management policy control network elements, including one of the following: Case 1: Match the target home service transmission channel management policy control network element based on the identification information of the first service transmission channel (e.g., DNN+S-NSSAI); Scenario 2: Match the target home region's service transmission channel management policy control network element based on user identification information (e.g., supi, gpsi).

[0272] In the fourth example, the source network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the target network function entity is the home service transmission channel management policy control element. In this case, the query parameters carried in the service discovery request may include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: 1) The network function type of the source network function entity (e.g., requester-nf-type), for example, requester-nf-type is: visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., V-PCF).

[0273] 2) The network function type of the target network function entity (e.g., target-nf-type). For example, target-nf-type is: Home Service Transmission Channel Management Policy Control Network Element (e.g., H-PCF).

[0274] 3) Identification information of the target network function service, such as the service name of the target network function service (e.g., serviceName) being: the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0275] 4) Key matching parameters used to determine the target network functional entities. For example, these key matching parameters may include: a. User identification information, such as supi, gpsi.

[0276] Accordingly, the entity selection module 1702 can perform the following operations based on the query parameters carried in the service discovery request sent by the control network element according to the visited service transmission channel management policy: ① Confirm that the network function type of the source network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element; and the network function type of the target network function entity is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element.

[0277] ② Confirm that the service name (e.g., serviceName) of the target network function service is the policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0278] ③ Based on key matching parameters, match the target home location service transmission channel management policy control network element, including: matching the target home location service transmission channel management policy control network element to which the user belongs based on user identification information (e.g., SUPI, GPSI).

[0279] The first sending module 1703 is used to send a service discovery response to the source network function entity, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

[0280] In some embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: V-PCF.

[0281] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nv-pcf-policycontrol).

[0282] 3) Attribute information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., V-PcfInfo) of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the management policy control of the visited service transmission channels, such as Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information + Data Network Name (S-NSSAI + DNN) used in 5G networks and Access Point Name (APN) used in 4G networks. b. The service area information supported by the network element for the visited service transmission channel management policy, such as tailist and severingScope; c. Identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as the name of the visited location policy; d. The user range information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0283] In other embodiments, the first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include at least one of the following: 1) Network function type information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element; for example, the network function type (e.g., nfType) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element can be: H-PCF.

[0284] 2) Identification information of network function services. For example, the identification information of a network function service (e.g., NFService) may include the service name of the network function service (e.g., serviceName), and the service name of the network function service may be: policy control service of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element (e.g., serviceName is nh-pcf-policycontrol).

[0285] 3) Attribute information of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element. For example, the attribute information (e.g., H-PcfInfo) of the home service transmission channel management policy control network element may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: a. Identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, such as S-NSSAI + DNN used in 6G networks and APN used in 4G networks; b. Home service transmission channel management policy control network element's supported user range information, such as supiRanges and gpsiRanges.

[0286] Figure 17 The service discovery device 1700 shown can achieve Figure 9 This paper presents a service discovery method that achieves the same technical effect. Relevant aspects can be referenced from each other, and will not be described repeatedly here.

[0287] This application embodiment also provides a network-side device, including a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores programs or instructions that can run on the processor, and the programs or instructions, when executed by the processor, implement... Figure 4 or Figure 7 The steps of the service registration method, or its implementation, are as follows: Figure 8 or Figure 9 The steps of the service discovery method described above.

[0288] This application embodiment also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a program or instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement... Figure 4 or Figure 7 The steps of the service registration method, or its implementation, are as follows: Figure 8 or Figure 9 The steps of the service discovery method described above.

[0289] This application also provides a computer program product, which is stored in a storage medium and executed by at least one processor to perform the following: Figure 4 or Figure 7 The steps of the service registration method, or its implementation, are as follows: Figure 8 or Figure 9 The steps of the service discovery method described above.

[0290] In summary, the above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application.

[0291] The systems, devices, modules, or units described in the above embodiments can be implemented by computer chips or entities, or by products with certain functions. A typical implementation device is a computer. Specifically, a computer can be, for example, a personal computer, laptop computer, cellular phone, camera phone, smartphone, personal digital assistant, media player, navigation device, email device, game console, tablet computer, wearable device, or any combination of these devices.

[0292] Computer-readable media includes both permanent and non-permanent, removable and non-removable media that can store information using any method or technology. Information can be computer-readable instructions, data structures, modules of programs, or other data. Examples of computer storage media include, but are not limited to, phase-change memory (PRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, digital versatile optical disc (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic tape, magnetic magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transferable medium that can be used to store information accessible by a computing device. As defined herein, computer-readable media does not include transient computer-readable media, such as modulated data signals and carrier waves.

[0293] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element defined by the phrase "comprising one..." does not exclude the presence of other identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that includes said element.

[0294] The various embodiments in this application are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, the system embodiments are basically similar to the method embodiments, so the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions of the method embodiments.

Claims

1. A service registration method, characterized in that, The method, applied to the management strategy control network element of the first service transmission channel, includes: A service registration request is sent to the network resource database. The service registration request is used to register the network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries the configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the registration response returned by the network resource database after the network function service registration is completed.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element includes at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The network function type information of the network element controlled by the visited service transmission channel management strategy; The identification information of the network function service; The attribute information of the network element controlled by the visitor service transmission channel management strategy; The attribute information includes at least one of the following: The identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the visitor service transmission channel management policy control; The service area information supported by the network element under the visitor service transmission channel management strategy control. The identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element; The visited service transmission channel management strategy controls the user range information supported by the network element.

5. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The network function type information of the control network element of the home service transmission channel management strategy; The identification information of the network function service; The home service transmission channel management strategy controls the attribute information of the network element; The attribute information includes at least one of the following: The identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the control network element of the home service transmission channel management strategy; The home service transmission channel management strategy controls the user range information supported by the network element.

6. A service registration method, characterized in that, Applied to a network resource database, the method includes: A service registration request is received from a first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The service registration request is used to register network function services provided by the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The network function services include policy control services related to service transmission channel management policy control. The service registration request carries configuration information of the first service transmission channel management policy control network element. The configuration information includes information required to discover the network function services in the network resource database. Save the configuration information to complete the registration of the network function service.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a registration response to the first service transmission channel management policy control network element.

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element includes at least one of the following: Visited site service transmission channel management strategy control network element; Home service transmission channel management strategy control network element.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The network function type information of the network element controlled by the visited service transmission channel management strategy; The identification information of the network function service; The attribute information of the network element controlled by the visitor service transmission channel management strategy; The attribute information includes at least one of the following: The identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the visitor service transmission channel management policy control; The service area information supported by the network element under the visitor service transmission channel management strategy control. The identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element; The visited service transmission channel management strategy controls the user range information supported by the network element.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The network function type information of the control network element of the home service transmission channel management strategy; The identification information of the network function service; The home service transmission channel management strategy controls the attribute information of the network element; The attribute information includes at least one of the following: The identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the control network element of the home service transmission channel management strategy; The home service transmission channel management strategy controls the user range information supported by the network element.

11. A service discovery method, characterized in that, Applied to source network functional entities, the method includes: During the process of establishing the first service transmission channel for users, a service discovery request is sent to the network resource database. The service discovery request carries query parameters, which are used by the network resource database to select a target network function entity for the source network function entity. The target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database. The target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control. Receive a service discovery response sent by the network resource database, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The query parameters include at least one of the following: The network function type information of the source network function entity; The network function type information of the target network function entity; The identification information of the target network function service; Key matching parameters used to determine target network functional entities.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The source network function entity is the access and mobility management function, and the target network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the key matching parameter includes at least one of the following: The user's user identification information; The user's location information; The visited service transmission channel management strategy controls the service area information of the network element.

14. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The source network functional entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network functional entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. The key matching parameters include at least one of the following: The user's user identification information; The user's location information; The visited service transmission channel management strategy controls the service area information of the network element. The identification information of the first service transmission channel; Identification information for the visited location strategy; The identification information of the network element controlling the management strategy of the visited service transmission channel.

15. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The source network functional entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network functional entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element. The key matching parameters include at least one of the following: The user's user identification information; The identification information of the first service transmission channel.

16. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The source network function entity is the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the target network function entity is the home location service transmission channel management policy control network element. The key matching parameters include the user's user identification information.

17. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The network function type information of the network element controlled by the visited service transmission channel management strategy; The identification information of the network function service; The attribute information of the network element controlled by the visitor service transmission channel management strategy; The attribute information includes at least one of the following: The identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the network element under the visitor service transmission channel management policy control; The service area information supported by the network element under the visitor service transmission channel management strategy control. The identification information of the visited location policy provided by the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element; The user range indication information supported by the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

18. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first service transmission channel management policy control network element is the home service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The network function type information of the control network element of the home service transmission channel management strategy; The identification information of the network function service; The home service transmission channel management strategy controls the attribute information of the network element; The attribute information includes at least one of the following: The identification information of the service transmission channels supported by the control network element of the home service transmission channel management strategy; The home service transmission channel management strategy controls the user range information supported by the network element.

19. A service discovery method, characterized in that, Applied to a network resource database, the method includes: Receive a service discovery request sent by a source network function entity, wherein the service discovery request is sent by the source network function entity during the process of establishing a first service transmission channel for users, and the service discovery request carries query parameters. Select a target network function entity for the source network function entity according to the query parameters, wherein the target network function entity includes a first service transmission channel management policy control network element that has pre-registered the target network function service in the network resource database, and the target network function service is related to the service transmission channel management policy control. A service discovery response is sent to the source network function entity, wherein the service discovery response carries the configuration information of the target network function entity.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The query parameters include at least one of the following: The network function type information of the source network function entity; The network function type information of the target network function entity; The identification information of the target network function service; Key matching parameters used to determine target network functional entities.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The step of selecting a target network function entity for the source network function entity based on the query parameters includes: Based on the network function type information of the target network function entity and the identification information of the target network function service in the query parameters, the target network function type and the identification of the target network function service are determined respectively. Among the network entities that have the identifier of the target network function service and belong to the target network function type, the target network function entity is obtained by matching according to the key matching parameter in the query parameters.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The source network function entity is the access and mobility management function, and the target network function entity is the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element, wherein the key matching parameter includes at least one of the following: The user's user identification information; The user's location information; The visited service transmission channel management strategy controls the service area information of the network element.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The step of matching based on the key matching parameters in the query parameters to obtain the target network functional entity includes one of the following: The target visited location service transmission channel management strategy control network element is matched based on the user location information or the service area information. The target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched based on the user identification information.

24. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The source network functional entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network functional entity is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. The key matching parameters include at least one of the following: The user's user identification information; The user's location information; The visited service transmission channel management strategy controls the service area information of the network element. The identification information of the first service transmission channel; Identification information for the visited location strategy; The identification information of the network element controlling the management strategy of the visited service transmission channel.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The step of matching based on the key matching parameters in the query parameters to obtain the target network functional entity includes one of the following: The target visited location service transmission channel management strategy control network element is matched based on the user location information or the service area information. Based on the service area information or the user location information, and the identification information of the first service transmission channel, the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched. Match the target visited location's service transmission channel management policy control network element with the identification information of the visited location policy; The target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched according to the user identification information; The target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched with the identification information of the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, Also includes: If the network resource database matches multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements according to the key matching parameters, it is determined whether there is a visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected by the access and mobility management network element among the multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements. If it exists, the visited service transmission channel management policy control network element selected in the access and mobility management network element will be determined as the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element. If it does not exist, or exists but is unavailable, then other network elements are selected from the multiple visited service transmission channel management policy control network elements as the target visited service transmission channel management policy control network element.

27. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The source network functional entity is a service transmission channel control plane network element, and the target network functional entity is a home service transmission channel management policy control network element. The key matching parameters include at least one of the following: The user's user identification information; The identification information of the first service transmission channel.

28. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The step of matching based on the key matching parameters in the query parameters to obtain the target network functional entity includes one of the following: The target home service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched based on the identification information of the first service transmission channel; The target location service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched based on the user identification information.

29. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that, The source network function entity is the visited location service transmission channel management policy control network element, and the target network function entity is the home location service transmission channel management policy control network element. The key matching parameters include the user's user identification information.

30. The method according to claim 29, characterized in that, The step of matching based on the key matching parameters in the query parameters to obtain the target network function entity includes: The target home location service transmission channel management policy control network element is matched based on the user identification information.

31. A network-side device, characterized in that, The method includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing a program or instructions executable on the processor, the program or instructions being executed by the processor to implement the steps of the service registration method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or the steps of the service registration method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10, or the steps of the service discovery method as described in any one of claims 11 to 18, or the steps of the service discovery method as described in any one of claims 19 to 30.

32. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The readable storage medium stores a program or instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the service registration method as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, or the steps of the service registration method as described in any one of claims 6 to 10, or the steps of the service discovery method as described in any one of claims 11 to 18, or the steps of the service discovery method as described in any one of claims 19 to 30.

33. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product is stored in a storage medium, and the computer program product is executed by at least one processor to implement the steps of the service registration method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, or the steps of the service registration method as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 10, or the steps of the service discovery method as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 18, or the steps of the service discovery method as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 30.

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