Communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium and a program product. The method comprises: receiving first information sent by a second network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; and performing policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is a maximum quantity of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device. Through the scheme of the present disclosure, policy control of the devices connected to the first node can be realized under the limitation of the first quantity.

Description

Communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium and program product TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of communication, and in particular to a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium and a program product. BACKGROUND

[0002] Non-3GPP devices can be connected to a user equipment (UE) and / or a residential gateway (RG), and access a communication network through the UE and / or the RG. The communication network can perform traffic differentiation and policy control for one or more non-3GPP devices connected to the UE and / or the RG.

[0003] SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium and a computer program product.

[0005] According to a first aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided. The communication method is performed by a first network element. The communication method comprises: receiving first information sent by a second network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; and performing policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is a maximum quantity of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device.

[0006] According to a second aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided. The communication method is performed by a second network element. The communication method comprises: determining a first network element; and sending first information to the first network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; and wherein the first information is used for the first network element to perform policy control of the first node.

[0007] According to a third aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a first network element is provided. The first network element comprises a transceiver module and a processing module. The transceiver module is configured to receive first information sent by a second network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node. The processing module is configured to perform policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is a maximum quantity of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a second network element is provided. The second network element includes a transceiver module and a processing module. The processing module is configured to determine a first network element. The transceiver module is configured to send first information to the first network element, where the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; and where the first information is used for the first network element to perform policy control of the first node.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes one or more processors. The communication device is configured to perform the communication method according to the first aspect.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes one or more processors. The communication device is configured to perform the communication method according to the second aspect.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided. The communication system includes a first network element and a second network element. The first network element is configured to implement the communication method according to the first aspect. The second network element is configured to implement the communication method according to the second aspect.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided. The storage medium stores instructions. The instructions, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method according to the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a program product is provided. The program product, when executed on a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the communication method according to the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a computer program is provided. The computer program, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the communication method according to the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a chip or chip system is provided. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to perform the communication method according to the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0016] Through the embodiments of the present disclosure, policy control of a device connected to a first node can be achieved.

[0017] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are only exemplary and explanatory, and do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0018] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following introduces the drawings required by the embodiments described below, the following drawings are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, and do not specifically limit the protection scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 1 is an architecture schematic diagram of a communication system provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 2A is an interaction schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 2B is an interaction schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 3A is a flow schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 3B is a flow schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 4A is a flow schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 4B is a flow schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 5 is an interaction schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 6 is an interaction schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 7 is a structure schematic diagram of a communication device provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 8A is a structure schematic diagram of a communication device provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 8B is a structure schematic diagram of a chip provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication method, a first network element, a second network element, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium and a computer program product.

[0032] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication method. The communication method is performed by a first network element. The above-mentioned communication method comprises: receiving first information sent by a second network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; and performing policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is a maximum quantity of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device.

[0033] According to the embodiment, the first network element can receive the first information from the second network element, the first information being used to determine the first policy related to the first device connected to the first node; the first network element can perform the policy control on the first node according to the first information and based on the first number. In this way, the policy control performed by the first network element can be performed in consideration of the first number. In this way, the first network element can determine the first policy for the first node while ensuring that the first number is not exceeded.

[0034] With reference to some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the operation of performing the policy control on the first node according to the first information and the first number can include: determining that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, where the second number is a number of second devices connected to the first node; and determining the first policy.

[0035] With reference to some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the operation of performing the policy control on the first node according to the first information and the first number can include: determining that the third number is less than the first number, where the third number is a number of second devices connected to the first node other than the first device; and determining the first policy.

[0036] With reference to some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the operation of performing the policy control on the first node according to the first information and the first number can include: determining that the second number is greater than the first number, where the second number is a number of second devices connected to the first node; and rejecting the determination of the first policy.

[0037] With reference to some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the operation of performing the policy control on the first node according to the first information and the first number can include: determining that the third number is equal to the first number, where the third number is a number of second devices connected to the first node other than the first device; and rejecting the determination of the first policy.

[0038] With reference to some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can include at least one of: first identification information used to identify the first device; second identification information used to identify a session management (SM) policy association related to the first node; the second number, where the second number is a number of second devices connected to the first node; and the third number, where the third number is a number of second devices connected to the first node other than the first device.

[0039] In the embodiment, at least one of the first identification information, the second identification information, the second number, and the third number can be included in the first information. Based on at least one of the information, the policy control on the first device and the number management can be implemented.

[0040] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first node corresponds to at least one packet data unit (PDU) session, each of the at least one PDU session corresponds to one SM policy association.

[0041] In the present embodiment, the first node corresponds to one or more PDU sessions, and the traffic of the plurality of second devices connected to the first node can be located in the same or different PDU sessions. Since each PDU session can correspond to one SM policy association, different PDU sessions can be distinguished by different identifiers of the SM policy associations. In this way, the identifier of the SM policy association can be used to determine the corresponding PDU session, and further used to determine one or more second devices corresponding to the PDU session. This can achieve the packet management for the subsequent devices connected to the first node.

[0042] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information can be carried in one of: a policy control creation request message; a policy control update request message; a policy control deletion request message.

[0043] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further comprises: performing the number management for the second devices connected to the first node.

[0044] According to the present embodiment, the number management for the subsequent devices of the first node can be implemented by the first network element according to the first information, so as to ensure that the number of the second devices connected to the first node does not exceed the number limit. In this way, the number management only needs to be performed at the first network element, which reduces the network computing resources required to implement the number management.

[0045] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; wherein the operation of performing the number management for the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining that the first condition is met; updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node; the first condition can comprise at least one of: the number of the first devices is 1, and the second number is less than or equal to the first number; the number of the first devices is 1, and the third number is less than the first number; the number of the first devices is greater than 1, and the second number is less than or equal to the first number; wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first devices.

[0046] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the number of the first devices can be 1, and the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; wherein, according to the first information, performing the operation of managing the number of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining one of the following according to the first device: the second number is less than or equal to the first number, or the third number is less than the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device; updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0047] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the number of the first devices can be greater than 1, and the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; wherein, performing the operation of managing the number of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining that the second number is less than or equal to the first number according to the number of the first devices, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node; updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0048] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control deletion request message; wherein, according to the first information, performing the operation of managing the number of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: deleting the second number.

[0049] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the number management can be implemented based on a first list, and the first list is used to save the identification information of the second devices and the identification information associated with the SM policy related to the first node.

[0050] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; wherein, the first information can comprise first identification information and second identification information, the first identification information is used to identify the first device, and the second identification information is used to identify the SM policy associated with the first node; wherein, according to the first information, performing the operation of managing the number of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, or the third number is less than the first number, wherein the second number is equal to the sum of the number of the first device and the number of the identification information of at least one second device contained in the first list, and the third number is equal to the number of the identification information of at least one second device contained in the first list; adding the first identification information and the second identification information to the first list.

[0051] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message; and the method further can comprise: creating the first list based on the first information.

[0052] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control deletion request message; and the first information at least comprises second identification information, the second identification information being used to identify an SM policy association related to the first node; and the operation of performing the number management of the second device connected to the first node based on the first information can comprise: deleting the first identification information related to the second identification information from the first list, the first identification information being used to identify the first device.

[0053] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the method further can comprise: receiving second information sent by a third network element, the second information being used to indicate the first number.

[0054] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first device can be a non-3GPP device.

[0055] In a second aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication method. The communication method is performed by a second network element. The communication method comprises: determining a first network element; and sending first information to the first network element, the first information being used to determine a first policy of a first node, the first policy being related to a first device connected to the first node; and the first information being used for the first network element to perform policy control of the first node.

[0056] According to the present embodiment, the second network element can send the first information to the first network element, the first information indicating the first device connected to the first node; and the first network element can perform policy control of the first node based on the first information and the first number. In this way, the policy control performed by the first network element can be performed under the consideration of the first number. In this way, the first network element can determine the first policy for the first node under the condition of guaranteeing not exceeding the first number.

[0057] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the first information can comprise at least one of: first identification information, used to identify the first device; second identification information, used to identify an SM policy association related to the first node; a second number, the second number being a number of second devices connected to the first node; and a third number, the third number being a number of second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

[0058] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the first information can be carried in one of: a policy control creation request message; a policy control update request message; a policy control deletion request message.

[0059] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further can comprise: receiving third information sent by the fourth network element, wherein the third information is used to indicate the first device connected to the first node; and wherein the determining the first network element can comprise: determining the first network element according to the third information.

[0060] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the third information can comprise at least one of: first identification information used to identify the first device; third identification information used to identify the PDU session related to the first node; and fourth identification information used to identify the first node.

[0061] With the present embodiment, the second network element can receive at least one of the first identification information, the third identification information, and the fourth identification information from the fourth network element. In this way, the second network element can determine the same first network element in the determining process of the first network element based on at least one of the first identification information, the third identification information, and the fourth identification information, so as to ensure that the first network elements corresponding to all the second devices connected to the first node are the same.

[0062] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method further can comprise: performing the number management for the second devices connected to the first node.

[0063] According to the present embodiment, the number management for the second devices connected to the first node can be implemented by the second network element, so as to ensure that the number of the second devices connected to the first node does not exceed the number limit. In this way, the number management is only performed at the second network element, which reduces the network computing resources required for implementing the number management.

[0064] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the performing the number management for the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining that a first condition is met; and updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node; the first condition can comprise at least one of: the number of the first devices is 1, and a second number is less than or equal to the first number; the number of the first devices is 1, and a third number is less than the first number; the number of the first devices is greater than 1, and the second number is less than or equal to the first number; wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

[0065] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the number of the first devices can be 1; wherein the operation of performing the number management of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining, according to the first device, one of: the second number is less than or equal to the first number, the third number is less than the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device; updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0066] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the number of the first devices can be greater than 1; wherein the operation of performing the number management of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: determining, according to the number of the first devices, that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node; updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0067] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the operation of performing the number management of the second devices connected to the first node can comprise: deleting the second number.

[0068] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the method can further comprise: receiving second information sent by a third network element, wherein the second information is used to indicate the first number.

[0069] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the first device can be a non-3GPP device.

[0070] In a third aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a first network element. The first network element comprises a transceiver module and a processing module. The transceiver module is configured to: receive first information sent by a second network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node. The processing module is configured to perform policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first number, wherein the first number is the maximum number of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device.

[0071] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the processing module can be configured to: determine that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node; and determine the first policy.

[0072] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the processing module can be configured to: determine that the third number is less than the first number, wherein the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device; and determine the first policy.

[0073] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the processing module can be configured to: determine that the second quantity is greater than the first quantity, wherein the second quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node; and reject determining the first policy.

[0074] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the processing module can be configured to: determine that the third quantity is equal to the first quantity, wherein the third quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node except the first device; and reject determining the first policy.

[0075] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can comprise at least one of: first identification information for identifying the first device; second identification information for identifying the SM policy association related to the first node; the second quantity, wherein the second quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node; and the third quantity, wherein the third quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

[0076] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first node corresponds to at least one PDU session, and each PDU session of the at least one PDU session corresponds to one SM policy association.

[0077] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can be carried in one of: a policy control creation request message; a policy control update request message; and a policy control deletion request message.

[0078] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the processing module can be further configured to: perform quantity management for the second devices connected to the first node.

[0079] With some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message or the policy control update request message; and the processing module can be configured to: determine that a first condition is satisfied; update the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node; and the first condition can comprise at least one of: the quantity of the first device is 1, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity; the quantity of the first device is 1, and the third quantity is less than the first quantity; the quantity of the first device is greater than 1, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity; wherein the second quantity is the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third quantity is the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

[0080] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the number of the first devices can be 1, and the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; the processing module can be configured to: determine, according to the first device, one of the following: the second number is less than or equal to the first number, or the third number is less than the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device; and update the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0081] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the number of the first devices can be greater than 1, and the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; the processing module can be configured to: determine, according to the number of the first devices, that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node; and update the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0082] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control deletion request message; the processing module can be configured to: delete the second number.

[0083] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the number management can be implemented based on a first list, the first list being used to save identification information of the second devices and identification information associated with the SM policy related to the first node.

[0084] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; the first information can include first identification information and second identification information, the first identification information being used to identify the first device, and the second identification information being used to identify the SM policy associated with the first node; the processing module can be configured to: determine that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, or the third number is less than the first number, wherein the second number is equal to the sum of the number of the first devices and the number of the identification information of at least one second device contained in the first list, and the third number is equal to the number of the identification information of at least one second device contained in the first list; and add the first identification information and the second identification information to the first list.

[0085] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the first information can be carried in a policy control creation request message; the processing module can be further configured to: create the first list based on the first information.

[0086] In some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can be carried in a policy control deletion request message; wherein the first information comprises at least second identification information, the second identification information being used to identify an SM policy association related to the first node; wherein the processing module can be configured to delete the first identification information related to the second identification information from the first list, wherein the first identification information is used to identify the first device.

[0087] In some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the transceiver module can be further configured to receive second information sent by a third network element, wherein the second information is used to indicate the first quantity.

[0088] In some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first device can be a non-3GPP device.

[0089] In a fourth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a second network element. The above-mentioned second network element comprises a transceiver module and a processing module. The processing module is configured to determine a first network element. The transceiver module is configured to send first information to the first network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, the first policy being related to a first device connected to the first node; wherein the first information is used for the first network element to perform policy control of the first node.

[0090] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can comprise at least one of the following: first identification information used to identify the first device; second identification information used to identify an SM policy association related to the first node; a second quantity, wherein the second quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node; a third quantity, wherein the third quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

[0091] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information can be carried in one of the following: a policy control creation request message; a policy control update request message; a policy control deletion request message.

[0092] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the transceiver module can be further configured to receive third information sent by a fourth network element, wherein the third information is used to indicate the first device connected to the first node; and determine the first network element according to the third information.

[0093] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the third information can comprise at least one of the following: first identification information used to identify the first device; third identification information used to identify a PDU session related to the first node; fourth identification information used to identify the first node.

[0094] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the processing module can be further configured to perform the number management for the second devices connected to the first node.

[0095] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the processing module can be configured to: determine that the first condition is satisfied; update the number of the second devices connected to the first node; the first condition can comprise at least one of: the number of the first devices is 1, the second number is less than or equal to the first number; the number of the first devices is 1, the third number is less than the first number; the number of the first devices is greater than 1, the second number is less than or equal to the first number; wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

[0096] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the number of the first devices can be 1; wherein the processing module can be configured to: according to the first device, determine one of: the second number is less than or equal to the first number, the third number is less than the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node except the first device; update the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0097] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the number of the first devices can be greater than 1; wherein the processing module can be configured to: according to the number of the first devices, determine that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, wherein the second number is the number of the second devices connected to the first node; update the number of the second devices connected to the first node.

[0098] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the processing module can be configured to: delete the second number.

[0099] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the transceiver module can be further configured to: receive second information sent by a third network element, wherein the second information is used to indicate the first number.

[0100] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first device can be a non-3GPP device.

[0101] In a fifth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication device. The communication device comprises one or more processors and a memory storing instructions. The instructions, when executed by the communication device, cause the communication device to implement the communication method according to any one of the first aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0102] In a sixth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device. The communication device includes one or more processors and a memory having instructions stored therein. The instructions, when executed by the communication device, cause the communication device to implement the communication method according to any one of the second aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0103] In a seventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication system. The communication system includes a first network element configured to implement the communication method according to any one of the first aspect and possible implementation manners thereof, and a second network element configured to implement the communication method according to any one of the second aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0104] In an eighth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a storage medium. The storage medium stores instructions. The instructions, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method according to any one of the first aspect to the second aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0105] In a ninth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a program product. The program product, when executed by a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the communication method according to any one of the first aspect to the second aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0106] In a tenth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer program (product). The computer program, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform the communication method according to any one of the first aspect to the second aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0107] In an eleventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to perform the communication method according to any one of the first aspect to the second aspect and possible implementation manners thereof.

[0108] It can be understood that the above-mentioned first network element, second network element, communication device, communication system, storage medium, program product, computer program, chip, and chip system are all used to perform the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved thereby can refer to the beneficial effects in the corresponding method, which will not be described here again.

[0109] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication method, a first network element, a second network element, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium, and a computer program product. In some embodiments, the terms of communication method, information processing method, and the like can be replaced with each other, the terms of first network element, second network element, communication device, communication equipment, information processing device, and the like can be replaced with each other, and the terms of information processing system, communication system, and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0110] The embodiments of the present disclosure are not exhaustive, but only illustrate some embodiments, and are not specific limitations on the protection scope of the present disclosure. In the case of no contradiction, each step in an embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be combined arbitrarily. For example, the scheme after removing some steps in an embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in an embodiment can be exchanged arbitrarily. In addition, the optional implementation manners in an embodiment can be combined arbitrarily. In addition, the embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For example, part or all steps of different embodiments can be combined arbitrarily. For another example, an embodiment can be combined with optional implementation manners of other embodiments arbitrarily.

[0111] In each embodiment of the present disclosure, the terms and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent if there is no special description and logical conflict, and can be referred to each other, and the technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form a new embodiment according to the inherent logical relationship.

[0112] The terms used in the embodiments of the present disclosure are only for the purpose of describing the specific embodiments, and not as a limitation on the present disclosure.

[0113] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the elements expressed in singular form, such as "one", "a", "the", "above", "said", "preceding", "this" and the like, can represent "one and only one", or "one or more", "at least one" and the like. For example, in the case of using articles such as "a", "an", "the" and the like in English, the noun after the article can be understood as singular expression, or can be understood as plural expression.

[0114] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, "plurality" means two or more.

[0115] In some embodiments, the terms "at least one of", "one or more", "a plurality of", "multiple" and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0116] In some embodiments, "at least one of A, B", "A and / or B", "in one case A, in another case B", "responsive to case A, responsive to case B" and the like, can be interpreted to include both cases, A and B, in some embodiments, A (A is performed regardless of B), in some embodiments, B (B is performed regardless of A), in some embodiments, selected from the group consisting of A and B (the selection between A and B is an option), in some embodiments, A and B (both A and B are performed).

[0117] In some embodiments, "A or B" and the like, can be interpreted to include both cases, A and B, in some embodiments, A (A is performed regardless of B), in some embodiments, B (B is performed regardless of A), in some embodiments, selected from the group consisting of A and B (the selection between A and B is an option).

[0118] In some embodiments, the prefix words "first", "second" and the like in the disclosure do not limit the position, order, priority, number or content of the described objects, and the description of the described objects should be referred to the context of the claims or embodiments, and should not be construed as redundant limitations. For example, the described objects are "fields", and the ordinal words before "fields" in "first field" and "second field" do not limit the position or order between "fields", and "first" and "second" do not limit whether the "fields" modified by them are in the same message or not, nor limit the order of "first field" and "second field". For another example, the described objects are "levels", and the ordinal words before "levels" in "first level" and "second level" do not limit the priority between "levels". For another example, the number of the described objects is not limited by the ordinal words, and can be one or more. For example, "first device", where the number of "devices" can be one or more. In addition, the objects modified by different prefix words can be the same or different, for example, the described objects are "devices", and "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different; for another example, the described objects are "information", and "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their contents can be the same or different.

[0119] In some embodiments, "including A", "containing A", "for indicating A", "carrying A" can be interpreted as directly carrying A, or indirectly indicating A.

[0120] In some embodiments, the terms "in response to", "in response to determining", "in the case of", "when", "when", "if", "if" and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0121] In some embodiments, the terms "greater than", "greater than or equal to", "not less than", "more than", "more than or equal to", "not less than", "higher than", "higher than or equal to", "not lower than", "above", and the like can be replaced with each other, and the terms "less than", "less than or equal to", "not greater than", "fewer than", "fewer than or equal to", "not more than", "lower than", "lower than or equal to", "not higher than", "below", and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0122] In some embodiments, an apparatus and the like can be interpreted as an entity, and can also be interpreted as virtual, and the name thereof is not limited to the name recited in the embodiments, and the terms "apparatus", "equipment", "device", "circuit", "network element", "node", "function", "unit", "section", "system", "network", "chip", "chip system", "entity", "subject", and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0123] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as an apparatus (for example, an access network device, a core network device, and the like) included in the network.

[0124] In some embodiments, the terms “access network device (AN device),” “radio access network device (RAN device),” “base station (BS),” “radio base station,” “fixed station,” “node,” “access point,” “transmission point (TP),” “reception point (RP),” “transmission / reception point (TRP),” “panel,” “antenna panel,” “antenna array,” “cell,” “macro cell,” “small cell,” “femto cell,” “pico cell,” “sector,” “cell group,” “serving cell,” “carrier,” “component carrier,” “bandwidth part (BWP),” and the like can be used interchangeably.

[0125] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal," "terminal device," "user equipment (UE)," "user terminal," "mobile station (MS)," "mobile terminal (MT)," "subscriber station," "mobile unit," "subscriber unit," "wireless unit," "remote unit," "mobile device," "wireless device," "wireless communication device," "remote device," "mobile subscriber station," "access terminal," "mobile terminal," "wireless terminal," "remote terminal," "handset," "user agent," "mobile client," "client," and so on can be replaced with each other.

[0126] In some embodiments, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device can be replaced with a terminal. For example, the embodiments of the present disclosure can also be applied to a structure in which communication between the access network device, the core network device, or the network device and the terminal is replaced with communication between a plurality of terminals (e.g., device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the terminal can also be configured to have all or part of the functions of the access network device. In addition, the terms "uplink," "downlink," and the like can also be replaced with terms corresponding to the inter-terminal communication (e.g., "side"). For example, the uplink channel, the downlink channel, and the like can be replaced with the side channel, and the uplink, the downlink, and the like can be replaced with the sidelink.

[0127] In some embodiments, the terminal can be replaced with the access network device, the core network device, or the network device. In this case, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device can also be configured to have all or part of the functions of the terminal.

[0128] In some embodiments, obtaining data, information, and the like can comply with laws and regulations of the country where the location is.

[0129] In some embodiments, data, information, and the like can be obtained after obtaining the consent of the user.

[0130] In addition, each element, each row, or each column in the table of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0131] FIG. 1 is an architecture schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1, the communication system 100 includes a first node 101, an access network device 102, a core network device 103, and a first device 104.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first node 101 includes, for example, a terminal. For example, the first node can include a UE.

[0133] In some embodiments, the terminal includes, for example, at least one of a mobile phone, a wearable device, an Internet of Things device, a communication-capable automobile, a smart automobile, a Pad, a computer with wireless transceiver function, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in smart city, a wireless terminal device in smart home, and the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0134] In some embodiments, the first node 101 includes, for example, a residential gateway (RG). In an example, the first node 101 can be a 5G-RG, a 6G-RG, or other residential gateway.

[0135] In some embodiments, the access network device 102, for example, is a node or device that accesses the first node 101 to a wireless network, and the access network device can include at least one of an evolved NodeB (eNB) in a 5G communication system, a next generation eNB (ng-eNB), a next generation NodeB (gNB), a node B (NB), a home node B (HNB), a home evolved node B (HeNB), a wireless backhaul device, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a base band unit (BBU), a mobile switching center, a base station in a 6G communication system, an Open RAN, a Cloud RAN, a base station in other communication systems, an access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0136] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of the present disclosure can be applicable to an Open RAN architecture, at this time, the interfaces between or within the access network devices involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can become internal interfaces of the Open RAN, and the processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be realized through software or programs.

[0137] In some embodiments, the access network device can be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU), wherein the CU can also be referred to as a control unit. The CU-DU structure can split the protocol layers of the access network device, and the functions of part of the protocol layers are controlled by the CU, and the functions of the remaining part or all of the protocol layers are distributed in the DU and controlled by the CU, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0138] In some embodiments, the core network device 103 can be one device including the first network element 1031, the second network element 1032, the third network element 1033, the fourth network element 1034, and the like, or can be multiple devices or device groups including all or part of the first network element 1031, the second network element 1032, the third network element 1033, the fourth network element 1034, and the like, respectively. The network element can be virtual or physical. The core network includes at least one of an evolved packet core (EPC), a 5G core network (5GCN), a 6G core network (6GCN), a next generation core (NGC), and the like.

[0139] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 is, for example, a policy control function (PCF).

[0140] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can support a unified policy framework to manage network behavior, provide policy rules for control plane functions, and the like.

[0141] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 is, for example, a session management function (SMF).

[0142] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can be responsible for session management, such as session establishment, modification, release, and the like.

[0143] In some embodiments, the third network element 1033 is, for example, a unified data repository (UDR) function.

[0144] In some embodiments, the third network element 1033 is, for example, a unified data management (UDM) function.

[0145] In some embodiments, the third network element 1033 can be responsible for storage and retrieval of subscription data, storage and retrieval of policy data, and the like.

[0146] In some embodiments, the fourth network element 1034 is, for example, an access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0147] In some embodiments, the fourth network element 1034 can be responsible for management of registration, connection, reachability, mobility, etc., for transmission of SM messages between the UE and the SMF, etc.

[0148] In some embodiments, the first device 104 can be a device connected to the first node 101.

[0149] In some embodiments, the first device 104 can be capable of accessing the communication network via the first node 101.

[0150] It can be understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of the present disclosure is for more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed by the embodiments of the present disclosure. It can be known by those skilled in the art that, as the system architecture evolves and new business scenarios appear, the technical solutions proposed by the embodiments of the present disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0151] The following embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG. 1, or part of the subjects in the communication system 100, but are not limited thereto. The subjects shown in FIG. 1 are exemplary, the communication system 100 can include all or part of the subjects in FIG. 1, or other subjects other than FIG. 1, the number and form of each subject is arbitrary, each subject can be real or virtual, the connection relationship between each subject is exemplary, each subject can not be connected or can be connected, the connection can be in any way, can be direct connection or indirect connection, can be wired connection or wireless connection.

[0152] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), 6th generation mobile communication system (6G), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM (registered trademark)), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.20, Ultra-WideBand (UWB), Bluetooth (Bluetooth (registered trademark)), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) network, Device-to-Device (D2D) system, Machine to Machine (M2M) system, Internet of Things (IoT) system, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), system using other communication methods, next-generation system expanded based on them, or the like. Further, a plurality of systems can be combined (for example, a combination of 5G and 6G, or the like), and the like can be applied.

[0153] In some embodiments, a non-3GPP device can be connected to a node such as a UE, 5G-RG, and access a communication network through the node. In this case, the non-3GPP device connected to the node can be referred to as a post-attached device.

[0154] In some embodiments, the communication network needs to provide corresponding policy control for the traffic of each downstream device connected to the node. In some embodiments, it is necessary to control the number of downstream devices connected to the node to a maximum number. Such an operation can be referred to as quantity control.

[0155] Therefore, how to control the number of downstream devices attached to a node is an urgent problem to be solved.

[0156] Figure 2A is an interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication method involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100. As shown in Figure 2A, the communication method of the embodiment of the present disclosure includes steps S2101 to S2111.

[0157] In step S2101, the first device 104 is connected to the first node 101.

[0158] In some embodiments, the first device 104 may be attached to the first node 101. The first device 104 may access the communication network through the first node 101.

[0159] In some embodiments, the first device 104 may be a non-3GPP device.

[0160] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may be a UE or a 5G-RG. It is understood that the first node 101 may also be other types of devices, and this disclosure does not specifically limit them.

[0161] In some embodiments, the connection between the first device 104 and the first node 101 may be a non-3GPP connection. For example, the connection between the first device 104 and the first node 101 may be achieved through communication methods such as Wi-Fi (a registered trademark), Bluetooth, and infrared.

[0162] In some embodiments, the first device 104 connected to the first node 101 may also be referred to as a device behind the first device 104. For example, the first device 104 may be a UE and the first node 101 may be a 5G-RG, then the first device 104 may be referred to as a UE behind the 5G-RG.

[0163] In some embodiments, the first device 104 may initiate a connection with the first node 101.

[0164] In some embodiments, during the process of establishing a connection between the first device 104 and the first node 101, the first device 104 may send first identification information to the first node 101.

[0165] In some embodiments, the first identification information can be used to identify the first device 104.

[0166] In some embodiments, the first identification information can comprise an identifier of the first device 104. In some embodiments, the first identification information can comprise a media access control (MAC) address of the first device 104.

[0167] In some embodiments, the first device 104 can be one or more of the second devices (not shown). The second devices can comprise a back-to-back user equipment (BBU) connected to the first node 101. The number of the second devices can be one or more, for example. It can be appreciated that the second devices can be the same type of devices as the first device 104. For example, the second devices can be non-3GPP devices.

[0168] In step S2102, the first node 101 sends a fourth message to the fourth network element 1034.

[0169] In some embodiments, the fourth network element 1034 can receive the fourth message.

[0170] In some embodiments, the fourth message can be used to determine session management for the first node 101.

[0171] In some embodiments, the fourth message can comprise at least one of: the first identification information, the fourth identification information.

[0172] In some embodiments, the fourth identification information can be used to identify the first node 101.

[0173] In some embodiments, the fourth identification information can comprise an identifier of the first node 101. For example, the fourth identification information can comprise at least one of: a SUPI (subscription permanent identifier) of the first node 101, a SUCI (subscription concealed identifier) of the first node 101, a GUTI (globally unique temporary UE identity) of the first node 101, a GPSI (generic public subscription identifier) of the first node 101.

[0174] In some embodiments, the fourth identification information can comprise a MAC address of the first node 101.

[0175] In some embodiments, the fourth message can be sent by the first node 101 to the fourth network element 1034 via the access network device 102.

[0176] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can send the fourth message to the access network device 102 over a Uu interface, and then the access network device 102 can send the fourth message to the fourth network element 1034 over an N2 interface. Here, the access network device 102 can implement forwarding of the fourth message.

[0177] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can send the fourth message to the fourth network element 1034 via the access network device 102 over an N1 interface. Here, the access network device 102 can implement transparent transmission of the fourth message.

[0178] In some embodiments, the fourth message can be a message in a packet data unit (PDU) session establishment procedure. In an example, the fourth message can comprise a PDU session establishment request message.

[0179] In some embodiments, the fourth message can be a message in a PDU session modification procedure. In an example, the fourth message can comprise a PDU session modification request message.

[0180] In step S2103, the fourth network element 1034 sends a third message to the second network element 1032.

[0181] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the third message.

[0182] In some embodiments, the third message can be sent by the fourth network element 1034 according to the received fourth message.

[0183] In some embodiments, the third message can comprise third information.

[0184] In some embodiments, the third information can be used to indicate a first device 104 connected to the first node 101.

[0185] In some embodiments, the third information can comprise at least one of the following: first identification information, third identification information, fourth identification information.

[0186] In some embodiments, the third identification information can be used to identify a PDU session related to the first node 101. In some embodiments, the PDU session identified by the third identification information can be a PDU session that is related to the first node 101 and has been established. In other words, the first identification information can be used to identify an old PDU session related to the first node 101.

[0187] In some embodiments, the third identification information can comprise an identifier of a PDU session related to the first node 101.

[0188] In some embodiments, the third information can comprise the first identification information but not the third identification information. In some embodiments, the third information can comprise only the third identification information but not the first identification information. In some embodiments, the third information can comprise both the first identification information and the third identification information.

[0189] In some embodiments, the third message can be used for establishment, modification, deletion, etc. of a session management (SM) context. In an example, the third message can be one of: a Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext request message, a Nsmf_PDUSession_UpdateSMContext request message, a Nsmf_PDUSession_DeleteSMContext request message. In some embodiments, the third message can be used for establishment of the SM context, then the third message can be the Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext request message. In some embodiments, the third message can be used for modification of the SM context, then the third message can be the Nsmf_PDUSession_UpdateSMContext request message. In some embodiments, the third message can be used for deletion of the SM context, then the third message can be the Nsmf_PDUSession_DeleteSMContext request message.

[0190] In step S2104, the second network element 1032 determines the first network element 1031.

[0191] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can be determined by the second network element 1032 according to the third information.

[0192] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can perform PCF discovery and selection to determine the first network element 1031. The PCF discovery and selection can be performed based on the third information.

[0193] In some embodiments, the first device 104 can be the first device or the first batch of devices connected to the first node 101. In this case, the third information can comprise the first identification information and / or the fourth identification information. The second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 according to the first identification information and / or the fourth identification information in the third information. In an example, the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 based on the first identification information and / or the fourth identification information, by using a network repository function (NRF) and / or according to a local configuration and / or an operator policy.

[0194] In some embodiments, the first device 104 can not be the first or the first batch of devices connected to the first node 101. For example, one or more third devices can have been connected to the first node 101 before the first device 104 is connected to the first node 101. The third devices can be other second devices than the first device 104. It can be appreciated that the third devices can be the same type of devices as the first device 104. For example, the third devices can be non-3GPP devices. In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 according to the third identification information in the third information. In an example, the second network element 1032 can determine a PDU session identified by the third identification information, and determine the first network element 1031 corresponding to the PDU session. In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 according to the fourth identification information in the third information. In an example, the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 corresponding to PDU sessions established for one or more third devices connected to the first node 101, according to the fourth identification information.

[0195] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can correspond to at least one PDU session. In an example, the first node 101 can correspond to one PDU session, and the second devices connected to the first node 101 can correspond to the same PDU session. In an example, the first node 101 can correspond to multiple PDU sessions, and the multiple second devices connected to the first node 101 can correspond to different PDU sessions. For example, each PDU session can correspond to one SM policy association.

[0196] In some embodiments, the traffic of all the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be located in one PDU session. In some embodiments, the traffic of the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be transmitted through data flows in the same PDU session.

[0197] In some embodiments, all the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be associated with one PDU session. In an example, the second network element 1032 can determine a PDU session according to the third identification information in the third information. All the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be associated with the PDU session, and the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 corresponding to the PDU session. In an example, the second network element 1032 can determine a PDU session according to the fourth identification information in the third information. All the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be associated with the PDU session, and the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 corresponding to the PDU session.

[0198] In some embodiments, the traffic of all the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be located in multiple PDU sessions. In some embodiments, the traffic of the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be transmitted through data streams in more than one PDU session. For example, the traffic of part of the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be located in one PDU session, and the traffic of another part of the second devices can be located in another PDU session.

[0199] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can determine a PDU session according to the third identification information in the third information. The PDU session can be one of the multiple PDU sessions in which the traffic of all the second devices is located. Then, the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 corresponding to the PDU session.

[0200] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can determine the first network element 1031 according to the first identification information in the third information. In some embodiments, the third message can be used for deletion of the SM context, and the first identification information in the third message can be used to determine the first network element 1031. In an example, the third message can be an Nsmf_PDUSession_DeleteSMContext request message, and the first identification information in the message identifies the traffic of the first device 104 located in the PDU session that has been established. At this time, the second network element 1032 can determine the corresponding PDU session according to the first identification information, and further determine the first network element 1031 corresponding to the PDU session.

[0201] In step S2105, the second network element 1032 sends the first message to the first network element 1031.

[0202] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the first message.

[0203] In some embodiments, the first message can comprise the first information.

[0204] In some embodiments, the first information can be used to determine the first policy of the first node 101.

[0205] In some embodiments, the first information can be used to indicate the first device 104 connected to the first node 101.

[0206] In some embodiments, the first information can be used to determine the first device 104 to which the policy is directed.

[0207] In some embodiments, the first information can comprise at least one of: the first identification information, the second identification information.

[0208] In some embodiments, the second identification information can be used to identify the SM policy association related to the first node 101.

[0209] In some embodiments, the second identification information can comprise an SM policy association identifier.

[0210] In some embodiments, the second identification information can be determined according to at least one of: the first identification information, the third identification information, the fourth identification information.

[0211] In some embodiments, upon obtaining the first identification information, the second network element 1032 can determine the SM policy association corresponding to the PDU session in which the traffic of the first device 1031 identified by the first identification information is located, and obtain the second identification information identifying the SM policy association.

[0212] In some embodiments, upon obtaining the third identification information, the second network element 1032 can determine the SM policy association corresponding to the PDU session identified by the third identification information, and obtain the second identification information identifying the SM policy association.

[0213] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can locally save the correspondence between the PDU session and the SM policy association. In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can locally save the identification information of the PDU session and the identification information of the corresponding SM policy association. In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can obtain the corresponding second identification information from the local according to the third identification information.

[0214] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can obtain the second identification information from another network element according to the third identification information. In an example, the second network element 1032 can send the third identification information to another network element, and receive the second identification information retrieved by the other network element based on the third identification information. In an example, the other network element can be the third network element 1033 or other network element.

[0215] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can determine the SM policy association corresponding to the PDU session associated with the fourth identification information, and obtain the second identification information identifying the SM policy association, in case that the fourth identification information is obtained.

[0216] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can locally save the correspondence between the first node 101 and the SM policy association. In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can locally save the identification information of the first node 101 and the identification information of the corresponding SM policy association. In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can obtain the corresponding second identification information from the local according to the fourth identification information.

[0217] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can obtain the second identification information from another network element according to the fourth identification information. In an example, the second network element 1032 can send the fourth identification information to another network element, and receive the second identification information retrieved by the another network element based on the fourth identification information. In an example, the another network element can be the third network element 1033 or other network element.

[0218] In some embodiments, the first information can include the first identification information but not the second identification information. In some embodiments, the first information can include only the second identification information but not the first identification information. In some embodiments, the first information can include the first identification information and the second identification information.

[0219] In some embodiments, the first message can be a message in a policy association establishment procedure. In some embodiments, the first message can include a policy control creation request message. The first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message. For example, the first message can include an SM policy control creation request message.

[0220] In some embodiments, the first message can be a message in a policy association modification procedure. In some embodiments, the first message can include a policy control update request message. The first information can be carried in the policy control update request message. For example, the first message can include an SM policy control update request message. In some embodiments, the first message can include a policy control deletion request message. The first information can be carried in the policy control deletion request message. For example, the first message can include an SM policy control deletion request message.

[0221] In step S2106, the third network element 1033 sends a second message to the first network element 1031.

[0222] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the second message.

[0223] In some embodiments, the second message can comprise the second information.

[0224] In some embodiments, the second information can be used to indicate the first number.

[0225] In some embodiments, the second information can be used to provide the first number to the first network element 1031.

[0226] In some embodiments, the first number can be a maximum number of the second devices allowed to be connected to the first node 101. It can be understood that the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be less than or equal to the first number, and the first number can be used to implement a limit on the number of the second devices. In some embodiments, the first number can be considered as an upper limit on the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0227] In some embodiments, the first number can be determined according to at least one of the following: a support capability of the first node 101 for the second device connection, an operator policy, subscription information of the first node 101, etc. In an example, the support capability of the first node 101 for the second device connection can comprise whether the first node 101 supports connecting the second device, a maximum number of the second devices supported by the first node 101, etc. In an example, the operator policy can comprise a configuration for a maximum number of the second devices connected to the first node 101. In an example, the subscription information of the first node 101 can comprise a maximum number of the second devices allowed to be connected to the first node 101.

[0228] In some embodiments, the step S2106 can be implemented as: the first network element 1031 sends a request message to the third network element 1033; and the third network element 1033 sends a second message to the first network element 1031 in response to the request message.

[0229] In some embodiments, the request message sent by the first network element 1031 can be used to request the first number, and the second message can be a response message to the request message.

[0230] In some embodiments, in the case that the first number does not exist in the first network element 1031, the first network element 1031 can obtain the first number from the third network element 1033. In an example, in the case that the first network element 1031 receives the policy control creation request message, the first network element 1031 can obtain the first number from the third network element 1033.

[0231] In some embodiments, the step S2106 can be implemented as: the first network element 1031 sends a subscription message to the third network element 1033; and the third network element 1033 sends a second message to the first network element 1031 in the case that the first number is obtained and / or the first number is updated.

[0232] In some embodiments, the subscription message sent by the first network element 1031 can be used to subscribe to the third network element 1033 for an event related to the first quantity. The event includes, for example, determination of the subscription information of the first node 101, update of the first quantity, etc. In some embodiments, the third network element 1033 can send a second message in case of event triggering. In some embodiments, the second message can be a notification message for the subscription message.

[0233] In step S2107, the first network element 1031 performs quantity management.

[0234] In some embodiments, in case of receiving the first message, the first network element 1031 can perform quantity management for the second devices connected to the first node 101 according to the first information in the first message.

[0235] In some embodiments, the quantity management includes controlling the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node 101. In some embodiments, the quantity management includes controlling the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node 101 within a maximum quantity. It can be understood that the quantity management can be understood as quantity control.

[0236] In some embodiments, the quantity management can be implemented based on a first quantity parameter.

[0237] In some embodiments, the first quantity parameter can be used to indicate the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node 101. In an example, the first device 104 can be a device newly connected to the first node 101, and the quantity indicated by the first quantity parameter does not include the quantity of the first device 104. In an example, the first device 104 can be a device previously connected to the first node 101, and the quantity indicated by the first quantity parameter includes the quantity of the first device 104.

[0238] In some embodiments, step S2107 can include determining that a first condition is satisfied; and updating the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0239] In some embodiments, the first condition can include one of the following: the quantity of the first device is 1, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity; the quantity of the first device is 1, and the third quantity is less than the first quantity; the quantity of the first device is greater than 1, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity.

[0240] In some embodiments, the first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message or the policy control update request message. In this case, step S2107 can comprise determining, according to the first information indicating the first devices 104, that the second number is less than or equal to the first number; and updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0241] In some embodiments, the first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message or the policy control update request message. In this case, step S2107 can comprise determining, according to the first information indicating the first devices 104, that the third number is less than the first number; and updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0242] In some embodiments, the first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message or the policy control update request message. In this case, step S2107 can comprise determining, according to the first information indicating the number of the first devices 104, that the second number is less than or equal to the first number; and updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0243] In some embodiments, in the case that the first devices 104 are devices newly connected to the first node 101, the second number can be equal to the sum of the number of the first devices 104 and the number of third devices among the second devices that have been connected to the first node 101. In an example, the second number can be equal to the sum of the number of the first devices 104 and the parameter value of the first number parameter.

[0244] In some embodiments, in the case that the first devices 104 are devices newly connected to the first node 101, the third number can be the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101 excluding the first devices 104. In other words, the third number can be the number of the third devices. In an example, the third number can be equal to the parameter value of the first number parameter.

[0245] In an example, the first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message, and the first devices 104 can be the first devices connected to the first node 101. In this case, the first devices 104 are all the second devices. In other words, there is no third device among the second devices, i.e., the number of the third devices is equal to 0.

[0246] In an example, the first information can be carried in the policy control update request message, and the first devices 104 can be devices newly connected to the first node 101, and there are already third devices connected to the first node 101. In this case, the first devices 104 can be part of the second devices, and the second devices include the third devices in addition to the first devices 104. At this time, the number of the third devices is greater than 0.

[0247] In some embodiments, the number of the first devices 104 can be equal to 1. For example, the number of the first devices 104 can be equal to 1 by default. In an example, in a case where it is determined that the number of the first devices 104 is equal to 1, the first network element 1031 can add 1 to the number of the third devices to obtain a second number. Then, the first network element 1031 can compare the first number and the second number. In an example, in a case where it is determined that the number of the first devices 104 is equal to 1, the first network element 1031 can take the number of the third devices as the third number and compare the first number with the third number.

[0248] In some embodiments, the number of the first devices 104 can be greater than 1. In this case, the first network element 1031 can determine a sum of the number of the first devices 104 and the number of the third devices as the second number. Then, the first network element 1031 can compare the first number and the second number.

[0249] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can compare the first number and the second number. Based on the comparison result, it can be determined whether the second number is greater than the first number. If the second number is greater than the first number, it means that the number of the second devices exceeds the allowed maximum number. If the second number is less than or equal to the first number, it means that the number of the second devices does not exceed the allowed maximum number.

[0250] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can compare the first number and the third number. Based on the comparison result, it can be determined whether the third number is equal to the first number. If the third number is equal to the first number, it means that the number of the second devices exceeds the allowed maximum number. If the second number is less than the first number, it means that the number of the second devices does not exceed the allowed maximum number.

[0251] In some embodiments, in a case where the second number is less than or equal to the first number or the third number is less than the first number, the first network element 1031 can update the number of the second devices connected to the first node 101. In an example, the first number parameter can be updated to the second number. For example, the number indicated by the first number parameter can be added to the number of the first devices 104 to obtain a new parameter value of the first number parameter. In an example, the parameter value of the first number parameter before the update can be the number of the second devices other than the first devices 104 newly connected to the first node 101; and the parameter value of the first number parameter after the update can be equal to the number of the second devices.

[0252] In some embodiments, the first information can be carried in a policy control deletion request message. In this case, step S2107 can include deleting the second number.

[0253] In some embodiments, in case the first information is carried in the policy control deletion request message, the first network element 1031 can remove the local second number. In other words, the second number can no longer be saved and maintained in the first network element 1031.

[0254] In some embodiments, the number management can be implemented based on the first list.

[0255] In some embodiments, the traffic of the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be located in one or more PDU sessions, and the number management for the second devices can be implemented based on the first list.

[0256] In some embodiments, the first list can be used to maintain the identification information of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0257] In some embodiments, the first list can be used to save the identification information (or device identification information) of the second devices and the identification information (or policy) associated with the SM policy related to the first node 101. In some embodiments, the first list can contain the identification information of one or more second devices and the identification information of the SM policy association. In some embodiments, each policy identification information in the first list can be associated with one or more device identification information. For example, the traffic of one or more second devices can be located in the same PDU session, and the device identification information of these second devices can be associated with the policy identification information of the SM policy association corresponding to the PDU session. In some embodiments, each device identification information in the first list is only associated with one policy identification information, because the traffic of any second device is only located in one PDU session and thus only corresponds to one SM policy association.

[0258] In some embodiments, the first information can be carried in the policy control creation request message or the policy control update request message. In this case, step S2107 can include: determining that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, or the third number is less than the first number; adding the first identification information and the second identification information to the first list.

[0259] In some embodiments, the second number can be equal to the sum of the number of the first device 104 and the number of the device identification information contained in the first list. In some embodiments, the third number can be equal to the number of the device identification information contained in the first list.

[0260] In some embodiments, the first identification information of the first device 104 can be added to the first list in a case where the second number is less than or equal to the second number, or the third number is less than the second number. In some embodiments, the second identification information can also be added to the first list at the same time of adding the first identification information. In this case, there is an association relationship between the added first identification information and the second identification information in the first list.

[0261] In some embodiments, the first information can be carried in the policy control deletion request message. In this case, the step S2107 can include deleting the first identification information related to the second identification information from the first list. The first identification information is used to identify the first device 104. It can be understood that the first identification information is contained in the first list at this time.

[0262] In some embodiments, the first information can include the second identification information, and the first information can be carried in the policy control deletion request message. At this time, the first network element 1031 can delete the second identification information and one or more device identification information associated with the second identification information from the first list according to the second identification information. The device identification information is used to identify one or more second devices. In an example, in a case where the PDU session release is triggered, the first network element 1031 can delete the second identification information and one or more device identification information associated with the second identification information from the first list according to the second identification information.

[0263] In some embodiments, the first information can include the first identification information, and the first information can be carried in the policy control deletion request message. At this time, the first network element 1031 can directly delete the first identification information from the first list.

[0264] In some embodiments, in a case where the received first message is the policy control creation request message, the first network element 1031 can create the first list based on the first information. In some embodiments, in a case where the received first message is the policy control creation request message, and the first list and the second number do not exist in the first network element 1031, the first list can be created. In an example, the created first list can include the first identification information and / or the second identification information.

[0265] In this step, the number management of the second devices can be achieved by maintaining the second number (or the first number parameter), or by maintaining the first list.

[0266] In step S2108, the first network element 1031 performs policy control.

[0267] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can perform policy control for the first node 101 according to the first information and the first number. In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can perform policy control related to the first device 104 for the first node 101 according to the first information and the first number.

[0268] In some embodiments, the policy control can comprise at least one of the following: determining to accept or reject the first message, determining the first policy.

[0269] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can determine the first policy for the first node 101 in a case that the second number is less than or equal to the first number, or the third number is less than the first number. In an example, the first network element 1031 can determine to accept the first message, and determine the first policy for the first node 101 in a case that the first message is accepted.

[0270] In some embodiments, the first policy determined by the first network element 1031 can comprise at least one of the following: a policy of the first node 101, a policy of the first device 104.

[0271] In some embodiments, the policy of the first node 101 can contain the policy of the first device 104. In some embodiments, the policy of one or more first devices 104 can be contained in the policy of the first node 101.

[0272] In some embodiments, the first policy can comprise at least one of the following: a node-related policy, a session-related policy, a mobility-related policy.

[0273] In some embodiments, the node-related policy can comprise a UE policy related to the first node 101. For example, the UE policy can comprise at least one of the following: a UE routing selection policy (URSP), an access network discovery and selection policy (ANDSP).

[0274] In some embodiments, the session-related policy can comprise a policy related to a PDU session of the first node 101 and / or the first device 104. In an example, the session-related policy can comprise at least one of the following: a policy and charging control (PCC) rule, quality of service (QoS) information.

[0275] In some embodiments, the mobility-related policy can comprise a policy related to mobility of the first node 101.

[0276] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can generate a new first policy according to the first information in the first message. In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can update an existing first policy according to the first information in the first message.

[0277] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can determine to reject determining the first policy, in a case that the first quantity is greater than the second quantity. In an example, the first network element 1031 can determine to reject the first message. At this time, the first network element 1031 can not determine the first policy.

[0278] In some embodiments, the step S2108 and the step S2109 can be executed simultaneously or sequentially, and the embodiments of the present disclosure do not make specific limitations.

[0279] In the step S2109, the first network element 1031 sends a fifth message to the second network element 1032.

[0280] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the fifth message.

[0281] In some embodiments, the fifth message can include at least one of the following: a policy control result, the first policy.

[0282] In some embodiments, the policy control result is success or failure.

[0283] In some embodiments, the policy control result is success, which indicates that the first network element 1031 accepts the first message. In some embodiments, the policy control result is failure, which indicates that the first network element 1031 does not accept or rejects the first message. In an example, the policy control result can indicate that the first network element 1031 accepts the first message. For example, the policy control result can indicate that the policy control creation request message, the policy control update request message, or the policy control deletion request message is accepted. In an example, the policy control result can indicate that the first network element 1031 rejects the first message. For example, the policy control result can indicate that the policy control creation request message, the policy control update request message, or the policy control deletion request message is rejected.

[0284] In some embodiments, the first policy can include at least one of the following: a policy of the first node 101, a policy of the first device 104. In some embodiments, the first policy can include at least one of the following: a node-related policy, a session-related policy, a mobility-related policy. It can be understood that the policy of the first node 101 can also include other rules and / or information, and the embodiments of the present disclosure do not make specific limitations.

[0285] In some embodiments, the fifth message can be a response message of the first message. In some embodiments, the fifth message can be one of: a policy control creation response message, a policy control update response message, a policy control deletion response message.

[0286] In some embodiments, the fifth message can be a policy control creation response message or a policy control update response message, and the fifth message can comprise a policy control result and / or a policy of the first node 101. In some embodiments, the fifth message can be a policy control deletion response message, and the fifth message can comprise a policy control result.

[0287] In step S2110, the second network element 1032 sends a sixth message to the fourth network element 1034.

[0288] In some embodiments, the fourth network element 1034 can receive the sixth message.

[0289] In some embodiments, the sixth message can be a response message of the third message. In some embodiments, the sixth message can be one of: an Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext response message, an Nsmf_PDUSession_UpdateSMContext response message, an Nsmf_PDUSession_DeleteSMContext response message.

[0290] In step S2111, the fourth network element 1034 sends a seventh message to the first node 101.

[0291] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can receive the seventh message.

[0292] In some embodiments, the seventh message can be a response message of the fourth message. In some embodiments, the seventh message can be one of: a PDU session establishment response message, a PDU session modification response message.

[0293] Through steps S2101 to S2111, the communication method of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented.

[0294] The communication method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S2101 to S2111. For example, step S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S2108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S2104 and S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S2105 and S2108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S2104, S2105 and S2108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. It should be noted that the possible independent embodiments composed of one or more of steps S2101 to S2111 are not limited to this.

[0295] In some embodiments, at least two of steps S2101 to S2111 can be exchanged in order or synchronously executed. For example, steps S2105 and S2106 can be exchanged in order or executed at the same time. For example, steps S2107 and S2108 can be exchanged in order or executed at the same time.

[0296] In some embodiments, steps S2101, S2102, S2103, S2105, S2106, S2107, S2108, S2109, S2110 and S2111 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0297] In some embodiments, steps S2101, S2102, S2103, S2104, S2106, S2107, S2108, S2109, S2110 and S2111 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0298] In some embodiments, steps S2101, S2102, S2103, S2104, S2105, S2106, S2107, S2109, S2110 and S2111 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0299] FIG. 2B is an interaction schematic diagram of a communication method provided by an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100. As shown in FIG. 2B, the communication method of the embodiments of the present disclosure includes steps S2201 to S2212.

[0300] In step S2201, the first device 104 is connected with the first node 101.

[0301] Optional implementation of step S2201 can refer to optional implementation of step S2101 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not repeated again.

[0302] In step S2202, the first node 101 sends a fourth message to the fourth network element 1034.

[0303] Optional implementation of step S2202 can refer to optional implementation of step S2102 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not repeated again.

[0304] In step S2203, the fourth network element 1034 sends a third message to the second network element 1032.

[0305] Optional implementation of step S2203 can refer to optional implementation of step S2103 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not repeated again.

[0306] In step S2204, the second network element 1032 determines the first network element 1031.

[0307] Optional implementation of step S2204 can refer to optional implementation of step S2104 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not repeated again.

[0308] In step S2205, the third network element 1033 sends an eighth message to the second network element 1032.

[0309] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the eighth message.

[0310] In some embodiments, the eighth message can comprise second information.

[0311] In some embodiments, the second information can be used to indicate the first quantity.

[0312] In some embodiments, the second information can be used to provide the first quantity to the second network element 1032.

[0313] In some embodiments, the first quantity can be a maximum quantity of the second devices allowed to be connected to the first node 101. It can be understood that the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node 101 can be less than or equal to the first quantity, and thus the first quantity can be used to limit the quantity of the second devices. In some embodiments, the first quantity can be considered as an upper limit of the quantity of the second devices connected to the first node 101.

[0314] In some embodiments, the first number can be determined according to at least one of: a support capability of the first node 101 for the connection of the second device, an operator policy, subscription information of the first node 101, and the like. In an example, the support capability of the first node 101 for the connection of the second device can include whether the first node 101 supports the connection of the second device, a maximum number of the second devices supported by the first node 101, and the like. In an example, the operator policy can include a configuration for a maximum number of the second devices connected by the first node 101. In an example, the subscription information of the first node 101 can include a maximum number of the second devices allowed to be connected by the first node 101.

[0315] In some embodiments, step S2205 can be implemented as: the second network element 1032 sends a request message to the third network element 1033; and the third network element 1033 sends an eighth message to the second network element 1032 in response to the request message.

[0316] In some embodiments, the request message sent by the second network element 1032 can be used to request the first number, and the eighth message can be a response message to the request message.

[0317] In some embodiments, in the case that the first number does not exist in the second network element 1032, the second network element 1032 can obtain the first number from the third network element 1033. In an example, in the case that the second network element 1032 receives the Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext request message, the second network element 1032 can obtain the first number from the third network element 1033.

[0318] In some embodiments, step S2205 can be implemented as: the second network element 1032 sends a subscription message to the third network element 1033; and the third network element 1033 sends an eighth message to the second network element 1032 in the case that the first number is obtained and / or the first number is updated.

[0319] In some embodiments, the subscription message sent by the second network element 1032 can be used to subscribe to an event related to the first number by the third network element 1033. The event includes, for example: determination of the subscription information of the first node 101, update of the first number, and the like. In some embodiments, in the case that the event is triggered, the third network element 1033 can send the eighth message. In some embodiments, the eighth message can be a notification message to the subscription message.

[0320] In step S2206, the second network element 1032 performs number management.

[0321] Optional implementation manners of step S2206 can refer to the optional implementation manners of step S2107 of FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved by FIG. 2A, which are not described herein again.

[0322] In some embodiments, different from the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the number management in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2B can be performed by the second network element 1032.

[0323] It should be noted that the specific details of the second network element 1032 performing the number management are the same as those of the first network element 1031 performing the number management, and are not described herein.

[0324] In step S2207, the second network element 1032 sends a first message to the first network element 1031.

[0325] The optional implementation of step S2207 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 of FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiment involved by FIG. 2A, which are not described herein.

[0326] In some embodiments, the first information can include at least one of the following: the first identification information, the second identification information, the second number, and the third number.

[0327] In some embodiments, the first information can further include the second number and / or the third number. In some embodiments, through the number management performed by the second network element 1032 in step S2206, the second network element 1032 can maintain the first number parameter or the first list. In an example, the second number determined based on the first number parameter or the first list and the number of the first device 104 can be carried in the first message to be sent to the first network element 1031. In an example, the third number determined based on the first number parameter or the first list can be carried in the first message to be sent to the first network element 1031.

[0328] In some embodiments, the first message can further include the first number.

[0329] In step S2208, the third network element 1033 sends a second message to the first network element 1031.

[0330] The optional implementation of step S2208 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 of FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiment involved by FIG. 2A, which are not described herein.

[0331] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the second message and obtain the first number according to the second message.

[0332] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can obtain the first number according to the received first message. At this time, step S2208 can be omitted.

[0333] In step S2209, the first network element 1031 performs policy control.

[0334] The optional implementation of step S2209 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2108 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0335] In step S2210, the first network element 1031 sends a fifth message to the second network element 1032.

[0336] The optional implementation of step S2210 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2109 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0337] In step S2211, the second network element 1032 sends a sixth message to the fourth network element 1034.

[0338] The optional implementation of step S2211 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2110 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0339] In step S2212, the fourth network element 1034 sends a seventh message to the first node 101.

[0340] The optional implementation of step S2212 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2111 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0341] Through steps S2201 to S2212, the communication method of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented.

[0342] The communication method involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S2201 to S2212. For example, step S2204 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S2207 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S2209 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, the combination of steps S2204 and S2207 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, the combination of steps S2207 and S2209 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, the combination of steps S2204, S2207 and S2209 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. It should be noted that the possible independent embodiments composed of one or more of steps S2201 to S2212 are not limited to this.

[0343] In some embodiments, at least two of steps S2201 to S2212 can be exchanged in order or executed synchronously. For example, steps S2204 and S2205 can be exchanged in order or executed simultaneously.

[0344] In some embodiments, steps S2201, S2202, S2203, S2205, S2206, S2207, S2208, S2209, S2210, S2211, S2212 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0345] In some embodiments, steps S2201, S2202, S2203, S2205, S2206, S2207, S2208, S2209, S2210, S2211, S2212 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0346] In some embodiments, steps S2201, S2202, S2203, S2205, S2206, S2207, S2208, S2209, S2210, S2211, S2212 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0347] In some embodiments, the names of information and the like are not limited to the names described in the embodiments, and terms such as “information”, “message”, “signal”, “signaling”, “report”, “configuration”, “indication”, “instruction”, “command”, “channel”, “parameter”, “domain”, “field”, “symbol”, “symbol”, “codebook”, “codeword”, “codepoint”, “bit”, “data”, “program”, “chip”, and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0348] In some embodiments, terms such as “radio”, “wireless”, “radio access network (RAN)”, “access network (AN)”, “RAN-based”, and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0349] In some embodiments, "acquire", "obtain", "get", "receive", "transmit", "bidirectionally transmit", "send and / or receive" can be replaced by each other, which can be interpreted as receiving from other subjects, acquiring from protocols, acquiring from higher layers, obtaining by self-processing, implementing autonomously, and various meanings.

[0350] In some embodiments, the terms "send", "transmit", "report", "issue", "transmit", "bidirectionally transmit", "send and / or receive" can be replaced by each other.

[0351] In some embodiments, the terms "session", "PDU session", "service session" and the like can be replaced by each other.

[0352] In some embodiments, the terms "flow", "data flow", "traffic", "service flow" and the like can be replaced by each other.

[0353] In some embodiments, the terms "process", "control", "manage" and the like can be replaced by each other.

[0354] In some embodiments, the terms "certain", "preset", "pre-set", "set", "indicated", "certain", "arbitrary", "first" and the like can be replaced by each other. "Certain A", "preset A", "pre-set A", "set A", "indicated A", "certain A", "arbitrary A", "first A" can be interpreted as A specified in advance in protocols and the like, can be interpreted as A obtained by setting, configuring, or indicating, and the like, and can be interpreted as certain A, certain A, arbitrary A, or first A, but are not limited thereto.

[0355] In some embodiments, determination or judgment can be made by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), by a true or false value (Boolean value) represented by true or false, or by comparison of numerical values (for example, comparison with a predetermined value), but is not limited thereto.

[0356] FIG. 3A is a flow diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method. The communication method is performed by a first network element 1031. As shown in FIG. 3A, the above method includes steps S3101 to S3105.

[0357] In step S3101, a first message is acquired.

[0358] The optional implementation of step S3101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0359] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the first message sent by the second network element 1032, but is not limited thereto, and can also receive the first message sent by other subjects.

[0360] In step S3102, the second message is acquired.

[0361] The optional implementation of step S3102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0362] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the second message sent by the third network element 1033, but is not limited thereto, and can also receive the second message sent by other subjects.

[0363] In step S3103, the quantity management is performed.

[0364] The optional implementation of step S3103 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2107 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0365] In step S3104, the policy control is performed.

[0366] The optional implementation of step S3104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2108 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0367] In step S3105, the fifth message is sent.

[0368] The optional implementation of step S3105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2109 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0369] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can send the fifth message to the second network element 1032, but is not limited thereto, and can also send the fifth message to other subjects.

[0370] The communication method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S3101 to S3105. For example, step S3101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S3101 and S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. It should be noted that possible independent embodiments composed of one or more of steps S3101 to S3105 are not limited to this.

[0371] In some embodiments, at least two of steps S3101 to S3105 can be exchanged in order or synchronously executed. For example, steps S3101 and S3102 can be exchanged in order or executed simultaneously. For example, steps S3103 and S3104 can be exchanged in order or executed simultaneously.

[0372] In some embodiments, steps S3102, S3103, S3104, and S3105 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0373] In some embodiments, steps S3101, S3102, S3103, and S3105 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0374] FIG. 3B is a flow diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method. The communication method is performed by a first network element 1031. As shown in FIG. 3B, the above method includes steps S3201 to S3204.

[0375] In step S3201, a first message is acquired.

[0376] The optional implementation of step S3201 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2207 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0377] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the first message sent by the second network element 1032, but is not limited thereto, and can also receive the first message sent by other subjects.

[0378] In step S3202, a second message is acquired.

[0379] The optional implementation of step S3202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2208 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0380] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can receive the second message sent by the third network element 1033, but is not limited thereto, and can also receive the second message sent by other subjects.

[0381] In step S3203, policy control is performed.

[0382] Optional implementation of step S3203 can refer to optional implementation of step S2209 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0383] In step S3204, a fifth message is sent.

[0384] Optional implementation of step S3204 can refer to optional implementation of step S2210 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0385] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 can send the fifth message to the second network element 1032, but is not limited thereto, and can also send the fifth message to other subjects.

[0386] The communication method involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S3201 to S3204. For example, step S3201 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S3203 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, the combination of steps S3201 and S3203 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. It should be noted that the possible independent embodiments composed of one or more of steps S3201 to S3204 are not limited thereto.

[0387] In some embodiments, at least two of steps S3201 to S3204 can be exchanged in order or executed synchronously. For example, steps S3201 and S3202 can be exchanged in order or executed simultaneously.

[0388] In some embodiments, steps S3202, S3203, and S3204 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0389] In some embodiments, steps S3201, S3202, and S3204 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0390] FIG. 4A is a flow diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method. The communication method is performed by a second network element 1032. As shown in FIG. 4A, the above method includes steps S4101 to S4105.

[0391] In step S4101, the third message is acquired.

[0392] Optional implementation of step S4101 can refer to optional implementation of step S2103 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0393] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the third message sent by the fourth network element 1034, but is not limited to this, and can also receive the third message sent by other subjects.

[0394] In step S4102, the first network element is determined.

[0395] Optional implementation of step S4102 can refer to optional implementation of step S2104 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0396] In step S4103, the first message is sent.

[0397] Optional implementation of step S4103 can refer to optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0398] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can send the first message to the first network element 1031, but is not limited to this, and can also send the first message to other subjects.

[0399] In step S4104, the fifth message is acquired.

[0400] Optional implementation of step S4104 can refer to optional implementation of step S2109 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0401] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the fifth message sent by the first network element 1031, but is not limited to this, and can also receive the fifth message sent by other subjects.

[0402] In step S4105, the sixth message is sent.

[0403] Optional implementation of step S4105 can refer to optional implementation of step S2110 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0404] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can send the sixth message to the fourth network element 1034, but is not limited to this, and can also send the sixth message to other subjects.

[0405] The communication method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S4101 to S4105. For example, step S4102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S4103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S4102 and S4103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. It should be noted that possible independent embodiments composed of one or more of steps S4101 to S4105 are not limited to this.

[0406] In some embodiments, steps S4101, S4103, S4104, and S4105 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0407] In some embodiments, steps S4101, S4102, S4104, and S4105 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0408] FIG. 4B is a flow diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a communication method. The communication method is performed by a second network element 1032. As shown in FIG. 4B, the above method includes steps S4201 to S4207.

[0409] In step S4201, a third message is obtained.

[0410] The optional implementation of step S4201 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2203 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0411] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the third message sent by the fourth network element 1034, but is not limited to this, and can also receive the third message sent by other subjects.

[0412] In step S4202, a first network element is determined.

[0413] The optional implementation of step S4202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2204 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0414] In step S4203, an eighth message is obtained.

[0415] The optional implementation of step S4203 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2205 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0416] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the eighth message sent by the third network element 1033, but is not limited thereto, and can also receive the eighth message sent by other subjects.

[0417] In step S4204, the quantity management is performed.

[0418] The optional implementation manner of step S4204 can be referred to the optional implementation manner of step S2206 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0419] In step S4205, the first message is sent.

[0420] The optional implementation manner of step S4205 can be referred to the optional implementation manner of step S2207 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0421] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can send the first message to the first network element 1031, but is not limited thereto, and can also send the first message to other subjects.

[0422] In step S4206, the fifth message is acquired.

[0423] The optional implementation manner of step S4206 can be referred to the optional implementation manner of step S2110 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0424] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can receive the fifth message sent by the first network element 1031, but is not limited thereto, and can also receive the fifth message sent by other subjects.

[0425] In step S4207, the sixth message is sent.

[0426] The optional implementation manner of step S4207 can be referred to the optional implementation manner of step S2111 in FIG. 2B and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0427] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 can send the sixth message to the fourth network element 1034, but is not limited thereto, and can also send the sixth message to other subjects.

[0428] The communication method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S4201 to S4207. For example, step S4202 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, step S4205 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S4202 and S4205 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. For example, a combination of steps S4202, S4204 and S4205 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. It should be noted that possible independent embodiments composed of one or more of steps S4201 to S4207 are not limited to this.

[0429] In some embodiments, steps S4201, S4203, S4204, S4205, S4206 and S4207 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0430] In some embodiments, steps S4201, S4202, S4203, S4204, S4206 and S4207 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0431] FIG. 5 is an interaction schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method. The above communication method includes steps S501 to S503.

[0432] In step S501, the second network element 1032 determines the first network element 1031.

[0433] Optional implementation of step S501 can refer to optional implementation of step S2104 in FIG. 2A, step S2204 in FIG. 2B, and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0434] In step S502, the second network element 1032 sends first information to the first network element 1031.

[0435] Optional implementation of step S502 can refer to optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A, step S2207 in FIG. 2B, and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0436] In step S503, the first network element 1031 performs policy control.

[0437] Optional implementation of step S503 can refer to optional implementation of step S2108 in FIG. 2A, step S2209 in FIG. 2B, and other associated parts in embodiments related to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0438] In some embodiments, the above method can include the method described in the above embodiments related to the first network element side, the second network element side, etc., which will not be repeated here.

[0439] In the following, the embodiments of the present disclosure are exemplarily described through specific implementations.

[0440] In some embodiments, the embodiments of the present disclosure propose to control the maximum number of non-3GPP devices (i.e., the second device) connected to the UE (i.e., the first node) and accessing the network.

[0441] In some embodiments, the SMF (i.e., the second network element) can discover and select the same PCF (i.e., the first network element) based on the device identifier (i.e., the first identification information).

[0442] In some embodiments, in the case of one PDU session, the PCF manages the number of non-3GPP devices connected to the UE, taking into account the maximum number (i.e., the first number) of non-3GPP devices connected to the UE.

[0443] In some embodiments, in the case of multiple PDU sessions, a new device identifier list (i.e., the first list) can be defined, and the PCF can add the device identifier and the SM policy association ID (i.e., the second identification information) in the device identifier list. In the case of triggering the release of one PDU session, the PCF removes all device identifiers associated with the SM policy association ID from the device identifier list.

[0444] FIG. 6 is an interaction diagram of one exemplary implementation of a communication method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication method shown in FIG. 6 is applicable to the case where all traffic of non-3GPP devices connected to the UE / RG is shared in one PDU session. The communication method shown in FIG. 6 can include multiple steps.

[0445] In step 1, the non-3GPP device initiates connection with the UE through non-3GPP access, including a device identifier.

[0446] In step 2, the UE sends a PDU session establishment / modification request to the AMF through the gNB, including the device identifier.

[0447] In step 3, the AMF (i.e., the fourth network element) sends an SM context creation / update request to the SMF, including the device identifier and / or the PDU session ID (i.e., the third identification information).

[0448] In step 4, the SMF performs PCF discovery and selection to select the same PCF in the case of including the device identifier. In an example, the SMF can query the NRF to determine the same PCF.

[0449] In step 5, the SMF sends an SM policy control create / update request to the PCF, including the device identifier.

[0450] In step 6, the PCF checks whether the number of active non-3GPP devices reaches the maximum number limit. If yes, the PCF rejects the SM policy control update request; otherwise, the PCF returns the policy / QoS information related to the device identifier (i.e., the first policy).

[0451] In some embodiments, when receiving the SM policy control create request, the PCF retrieves the maximum number limit value from the UE’s subscription information in the UDR.

[0452] In some embodiments, when the PCF receives the SM policy association end request from the SMF, the PCF removes the number of active non-3GPP device identifiers.

[0453] In some embodiments, when the PCF receives different device identifiers from the SMF in the SM policy control update message, the PCF increases the number of active non-3GPP device identifiers.

[0454] In step 7, the PCF sends an SM policy control create / update response, including the PCC rules and / or the result (i.e., success or failure).

[0455] In step 8, the SMF sends an SM context create / update response message to the AMF.

[0456] In step 9, the AMF sends a PDU session establishment accept or modify command message to the UE via the gNB.

[0457] In some embodiments, the communication method can also be applicable to all traffic bearers of non-3GPP devices connected to the UE / RG in multiple PDU sessions. At this time, a new device identifier list can be defined. The communication method can include multiple steps.

[0458] Steps 1-4 are the same as steps 1-4 in FIG. 6.

[0459] In step 5, the SMF sends an SM policy control create request to the PCF, including the device identifier; or the SMF sends an SM policy control update request to the PCF, including the device identifier and / or PDU session ID and / or SM policy association ID.

[0460] In step 6, the PCF checks whether the number of active non-3GPP devices reaches the maximum number limit by counting the device identifier list. If the maximum number is reached, the PCF rejects the SM policy control creation / update request; otherwise, the PCF returns the policy / QoS information related to the device identifier.

[0461] In some embodiments, when receiving the SM policy control creation request, the PCF retrieves the maximum number limit value in the subscription information of the UE from the UDR, and creates the device identifier list in the absence of the maximum number and the device identifier list.

[0462] In some embodiments, when the PCF receives the SM policy association end request from the SMF for one PDU session and including the SM policy association ID, the PCF removes all device identifiers associated with the SM policy association ID from the device identifier list.

[0463] In some embodiments, when the PCF receives different device identifiers in the SM policy control update message including the SM policy association ID and the device identifier from the SMF, the PCF adds the device identifier to the device identifier list together with the SM policy association ID.

[0464] Steps 7 to 9 are the same as steps 7 to 9 in FIG. 6.

[0465] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, part or all of the steps, the optional implementation manners thereof, can be combined with part or all of the steps in other embodiments, or can be combined with the optional implementation manners of other embodiments.

[0466] The embodiments of the present disclosure also provide a communication device for implementing any of the above methods. For example, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication device comprising units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the first network element in any of the above methods. For example, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a communication device comprising units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the second network element in any of the above methods.

[0467] It should be understood that the division of each unit or module in the above apparatus is only a logical function division, and all or part of them can be integrated into a physical entity or physically separated in actual implementation. In addition, the units or modules in the apparatus can be implemented in the form of processor calling software: for example, the apparatus includes a processor connected with a memory, the memory stores instructions, and the processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or realize the functions of each unit or module of the above apparatus, wherein the processor is, for example, a general processor such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory is a memory in the apparatus or a memory outside the apparatus. Alternatively, the units or modules in the apparatus can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit, and the functions of part or all of the units or modules can be realized by the design of hardware circuit. The above hardware circuit can be understood as one or more processors; for example, in one implementation, the above hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functions of part or all of the above units or modules are realized by the design of the logical relationship of elements in the circuit; for example, in another implementation, the above hardware circuit is a programmable logic device (PLD), and a field programmable gate array (FPGA) is taken as an example, which can include a large number of logic gate circuits, and the connection relationship between the logic gate circuits is configured by a configuration file, so as to realize the functions of part or all of the above units or modules. All units or modules of the above apparatus can be implemented in the form of processor calling software, or all units or modules can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit, or part of the units or modules are implemented in the form of processor calling software, and the remaining part is implemented in the form of hardware circuit.

[0468] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capability. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction reading and running capability, such as a central processing unit, a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), a digital signal processor (DSP), and the like. In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through a logical relationship of a hardware circuit, and the logical relationship of the hardware circuit is fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented by a special-purpose integrated circuit or a programmable logic device, such as an FPGA. In the reconfigurable hardware circuit, the processor loads a configuration document to implement the configuration of the hardware circuit. It can be understood that the processor loads an instruction to implement the functions of the above part or all units or modules. In addition, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a deep learning processing unit (DPU), and the like.

[0469] FIG. 7 is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7, the communication device 700 can include at least one of the following: a transceiver device 701, a processing device 702.

[0470] In some embodiments, the communication device 700 can be the first network element 1031. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 701 can be configured to receive first information sent by a second network element, where the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; and the processing module 702 can be configured to perform policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first quantity, where the first quantity is a maximum number of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device. Optionally, the transceiver module 701 can be configured to perform at least one of the communication steps (for example, steps S2105, S2106, S2109, S2207, S2208, S2210, but not limited to) of the sending and / or receiving performed by the first network element 1031 in any of the above methods, and details are not described herein again. Optionally, the processing module 702 can be configured to perform at least one of the other steps (for example, steps S2107, S2108, S2209, but not limited to) in addition to the communication steps of the sending and / or receiving performed by the first network element 1031 in any of the above methods, and details are not described herein again.

[0471] In some embodiments, the communication device 700 can be the second network element 1032. In some embodiments, the processing module 702 can be configured to determine the first network element; the transceiver module 701 can be configured to send the first information to the first network element, where the first information is used to determine the first policy of the first node, and the first policy is related to the first device connected to the first node; and the first information is used for the first network element to perform the policy control of the first node. Optionally, the transceiver module 701 can be configured to perform at least one of the communication steps (for example, steps S2103, S2105, S2109, S2110, S2203, S2205, S2207, S2210, S2211, but not limited to) of sending and / or receiving performed by the second network element 1032 in any of the above methods, which will not be described here. Optionally, the processing module 702 can be configured to perform at least one of the steps (for example, steps S2104, S2204, S2206, but not limited to) other than the communication steps of sending and / or receiving performed by the second network element 1032 in any of the above methods, which will not be described here.

[0472] In some embodiments, the communication device shown in FIG. 7 can also be referred to as a communication apparatus.

[0473] In some embodiments, the transceiver module can include a sending module and / or a receiving module. The sending module and the receiving module can be separate or integrated together. Optionally, the transceiver module can be mutually replaced with the transceiver.

[0474] In some embodiments, the processing module can be one module or can include multiple sub-modules. Optionally, the multiple sub-modules perform all or part of the steps required to be performed by the processing module. Optionally, the processing module can be mutually replaced with the processor.

[0475] FIG. 8A is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 8100 can be a network device (for example, an access network device, a core network device, etc.), a terminal (for example, a user equipment, etc.), a chip, a chip system, or a processor supporting the network device to implement any of the above methods, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor supporting the terminal to implement any of the above methods. The communication device 8100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments, and specific reference can be made to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0476] As shown in FIG. 8A, the communication device 8100 includes one or more processors 8101. The processor 8101 can be a general processor or a special-purpose processor, etc., such as a baseband processor or a central processor. The baseband processor can be configured to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processor can be configured to control a communication apparatus or a communication device (e.g., a base station, a baseband chip, a terminal device, a terminal device chip, a DU or a CU, etc.), execute programs, and process data of the programs. Optionally, the communication device 8100 is configured to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the one or more processors 8101 are configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods.

[0477] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more transceivers 8102. When the communication device 8100 includes one or more transceivers 8102, the transceiver 8102 performs at least one of the communication steps (e.g., steps S2101, S2102, S2103, S2105, S2106, S2109, S2110, S2111, S2201, S2202, S2203, S2205, S2207, S2208, S2210, S2211, S2212, but not limited to this) in the above methods, and the processor 8101 performs at least one of the other steps (e.g., steps S2104, S2107, S2108, S2204, S2206, S2209, but not limited to this). In an optional embodiment, the transceiver can include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which can be separate or integrated together. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiving unit, transceiver, transceiving circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc. can be replaced with each other, and the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc. can be replaced with each other, and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc. can be replaced with each other.

[0478] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more memories 8103 for storing data. Optionally, all or part of the memory 8103 can also be outside the communication device 8100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 8100 can include one or more interface circuits 8104. Optionally, the interface circuit 8104 is connected to the memory 8103, and the interface circuit 8104 can be configured to receive data from the memory 8103 or other devices, and can be configured to send data to the memory 8103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 8104 can read data stored in the memory 8103 and send the data to the processor 8101.

[0479] The communication device 8100 described in the above embodiments can be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 8100 described in the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 8100 can not be limited by FIG. 8A. The communication device can be a standalone device or can be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device can be: 1) a standalone integrated circuit (IC), or a chip, or a chip system or subsystem; (2) a set of one or more ICs, which can optionally also include storage components for storing data, programs; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, a terminal device, a smart terminal device, a cellular phone, a wireless device, a handset, a mobile unit, a vehicle-mounted device, a network device, a cloud device, an artificial intelligence device, and the like; (6) other devices, and the like.

[0480] FIG. 8B is a structural schematic diagram of a chip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the case where the communication device 8100 can be a chip or a chip system, the structural schematic diagram of a chip 8200 shown in FIG. 8B can be referred to, but is not limited thereto.

[0481] The chip 8200 includes one or more processors 8201. The chip 8200 is configured to execute any of the above methods.

[0482] In some embodiments, the chip 8200 further includes one or more interface circuits 8202. Optionally, the terms interface circuit, interface, transceiver pin, and the like can be replaced with each other. In some embodiments, the chip 8200 further includes one or more memories 8203 for storing data. Optionally, all or part of the memory 8203 can be outside the chip 8200. Optionally, the interface circuit 8202 is connected to the memory 8203, and the interface circuit 8202 can be configured to receive data from the memory 8203 or other devices, and the interface circuit 8202 can be configured to send data to the memory 8203 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 8202 can read data stored in the memory 8203 and send the data to the processor 8201.

[0483] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 8202 performs at least one of the communication steps (for example, steps S2101, S2102, S2103, S2105, S2106, S2109, S2110, S2111, S2201, S2202, S2203, S2205, S2207, S2208, S2210, S2211, S2212, but not limited to) of transmitting and / or receiving and the like in the above method. The interface circuit 8202 performing the communication steps such as transmitting and / or receiving and the like in the above method means, for example, that the interface circuit 8202 performs data interaction between the processor 8201, the chip 8200, the memory 8203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 8201 performs at least one of the other steps (for example, steps S2104, S2107, S2108, S2204, S2206, S2209, but not limited to).

[0484] The modules and / or devices described in each of the embodiments of the virtual device, the physical device, the chip, and the like can be combined or separated as the case can be. Alternatively, part or all of the steps can also be performed by a plurality of modules and / or devices in cooperation, which is not limited here.

[0485] The embodiments of the present disclosure also propose a storage medium, and the storage medium stores instructions. When the instructions run on the communication device 8100, the communication device 8100 performs any one of the above methods. Alternatively, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium is a computer readable storage medium, but is not limited to this, and it can also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Alternatively, the storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, but is not limited to this, and it can also be a transitory storage medium.

[0486] The embodiments of the present disclosure also propose a program product, and the program product is executed by the communication device 8100, so that the communication device 8100 performs any one of the above methods. Alternatively, the program product is a computer program product.

[0487] The embodiments of the present disclosure also propose a computer program, which makes the computer execute any one of the above methods when it runs on the computer.

[0488] Other embodiments of the present application will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the application disclosed herein. The present disclosure is intended to cover any and all variations of the present application comprising adaptations, modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present application. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the application being indicated by the following claims.

[0489] It should be understood that the application is not limited to the precise construction which has been described above and which shown in the drawings, and that various modifications and changes can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the application. The scope of the application should be limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A communication method performed by a first network element, wherein, The method comprises: receiving first information sent by a second network element, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, and the first policy is related to a first device connected to the first node; performing policy control of the first node according to the first information and a first quantity, wherein the first quantity is a maximum number of second devices allowed to be connected to the first node, and the second devices include the first device.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first information includes at least one of: first identification information used to identify the first device; second identification information used to identify a session management (SM) policy association related to the first node; a second quantity, wherein the second quantity is a number of the second devices connected to the first node; a third quantity, wherein the third quantity is a number of second devices other than the first device among the second devices connected to the first node.

3. The method of claim 1 or 2, wherein, The first node corresponds to at least one PDU session, and each PDU session in the at least one PDU session corresponds to one SM policy association.

4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The performing of the policy control of the first node according to the first information and the first quantity includes at least one of: determining the first policy for the first device related to the first information, wherein the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity; rejecting the determination of the first policy, wherein the second quantity is greater than the first quantity; wherein the second quantity is a number of the second devices connected to the first node.

5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The performing of the policy control of the first node according to the first information and the first quantity includes at least one of: determining the first policy for the first device related to the first information, wherein the third quantity is less than the first quantity; rejecting the determination of the first policy, wherein the third quantity is equal to the first quantity; wherein the third quantity is a number of second devices other than the first device among the second devices connected to the first node.

6. The method of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The first information is carried in one of: a policy control creation request message; a policy control update request message; a policy control deletion request message.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The method further comprises: performing number management for the second devices connected to the first node.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The first information is carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message; wherein the performing of the number management for the second devices connected to the first node includes: determining that a first condition is met; updating the number of the second devices connected to the first node; wherein the first condition includes at least one of: the number of the first device is 1, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity; the number of the first device is 1, and the third quantity is less than the first quantity; the number of the first device is greater than 1, and the second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity; wherein the second quantity is a number of the second devices connected to the first node, and the third quantity is a number of second devices other than the first device among the second devices connected to the first node.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein, The first information is carried in a policy control deletion request message. The performing of the quantity management for the second devices connected to the first node comprises: deleting the second quantity.

10. The method of claim 7, wherein, The quantity management is based on a first list, which is used to save identification information of the second devices and identification information associated with an SM policy related to the first node.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The first information is carried in a policy control creation request message or a policy control update request message. The first information comprises first identification information and second identification information, the first identification information being used to identify the first device, and the second identification information being used to identify an SM policy related to the first node. The performing of the quantity management for the second devices connected to the first node based on the first information comprises: determining that a second quantity is less than or equal to the first quantity or a third quantity is less than the first quantity, wherein the second quantity is equal to a sum of the quantity of the first device and a quantity of the identification information of at least one second device contained in the first list, and the third quantity is equal to the quantity of the identification information of at least one second device contained in the first list; adding the first identification information and the second identification information into the first list.

12. The method of claim 10 or 11, wherein, The first information is carried in a policy control creation request message. The method further comprises: creating the first list based on the first information.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein, The first information is carried in a policy control deletion request message. The first information comprises at least second identification information, which is used to identify an SM policy related to the first node. The performing of the quantity management for the second devices connected to the first node based on the first information comprises: deleting, from the first list, first identification information related to the second identification information, wherein the first identification information is used to identify the first device.

14. The method of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving second information sent by a third network element, wherein the second information is used to indicate the first quantity.

15. The method of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The first device is a non-3GPP device.

16. A communication method performed by a second network element, wherein, The method comprises: determining a first network element; sending, to the first network element, first information, wherein the first information is used to determine a first policy of a first node, the first policy being related to a first device connected to the first node; The first information is used for the first network element to perform policy control of the first node.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The first information comprises at least one of: first identification information, which is used to identify the first device; second identification information, which is used to identify an SM policy related to the first node; a second quantity, wherein the second quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node; a third quantity, wherein the third quantity is a quantity of second devices connected to the first node except the first device.

18. The method of claim 16 or 17, wherein, The first information is carried in one of: a policy control creation request message; a policy control update request message; a policy control deletion request message.

19. The method of any one of claims 16-18, wherein, The method further comprises: receive third information sent by a fourth network element, wherein the third information is used to indicate the first device connected to the first node; wherein the determining the first network element comprises: determine the first network element according to the third information.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The third information comprises at least one of: first identification information used to identify the first device; third identification information used to identify a packet data unit (PDU) session related to the first node; fourth identification information used to identify the first node.

21. The method of any one of claims 16-20, wherein, The method further comprises: performing number management for the second device connected to the first node.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein, The performing the number management for the second device connected to the first node comprises: determine that a first condition is met; update the number of the second device connected to the first node; wherein the first condition comprises at least one of: the number of the first device is 1, and a second number is less than or equal to the first number; the number of the first device is 1, and a third number is less than the first number; the number of the first device is greater than 1, and the second number is less than or equal to the first number; wherein the second number is the number of the second device connected to the first node, and the third number is the number of the second device connected to the first node except the first device.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein, The performing the number management for the second device connected to the first node comprises: delete the second number.

24. The method of any one of claims 16 to 23, wherein, The method further comprises: receive second information sent by a third network element, wherein the second information is used to indicate the first number.

25. The method of any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein, The first device is a non-3GPP device.

26. A communications device, comprising: The communication device is configured to perform the communication method of any one of claims 1-15, 16-25.

27. A communication system comprising: a first network element configured to implement the communication method of any one of claims 1-15; a second network element configured to implement the communication method of any one of claims 16-25.

28. A storage medium storing instructions, wherein, The instructions, when executed on the communication device, cause the communication device to implement the communication method of any one of claims 1-15, 16-25.

29. A computer program product comprising instructions, wherein, The instructions, when executed on the communication device, cause the communication device to implement the communication method of any one of claims 1-15, 16-25.

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