Dual-transmit-receive disaster processing method and system, storage medium and electronic device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a dual-transmission and selective-reception disaster handling method, system, storage medium and electronic device. The method comprises: a first user plane network element determining state information of a second user plane network element; when the second user plane network element is in a fault state and has not completed fault recovery, the first user plane network element performing dual-transmission and selective-reception processing on first pair sessions reported from a user side; and when the second user plane network element completes fault recovery and is in a normal state, the first user plane network element determining a dual-transmission and selective-reception processing strategy for two session messages of a second pair session according to a tunnel state between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element, and in combination with a number of session receptions of the second pair session from the user side and / or online information of a first session in the second user plane network element, the first session being a session in the second pair session that is not online in the first user plane network element. The present disclosure can solve the problem of probabilistic failure of the dual-transmission and selective-reception function in a disaster recovery switchover process.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of mobile communication networks, and more particularly to a dual-mode disaster recovery method, system, storage medium, and electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] In related technologies, such as 5G networks, dual-transmission selective reception solutions do not parse dual-transmission selective reception labels or pair sessions in data packets. This necessitates a 1+1 primary / backup disaster recovery mechanism for the media plane UPF (User Plane Function). During primary / backup node disaster recovery failover, if paired sessions are routed through different UPFs, the dual-transmission selective reception function is prone to failure. For example, during the recovery of a new user's session from a primary UPF failure, the arrival time difference may cause the session to be routed through both the primary and backup UPFs, resulting in duplicate packet reception on the application side or failure of the session redundancy mechanism. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This disclosure provides a dual-source selective reception disaster recovery method, system, storage medium, and electronic device to address the probabilistic failure of the dual-source selective reception function during disaster recovery failover.

[0004] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a dual-selection containment disaster handling method, the method comprising: The first user plane network element determines the status information of the second user plane network element; the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element have a primary and backup disaster recovery relationship. When the second user plane network element is in a fault state and has not completed fault recovery, the first user plane network element performs dual transmission and reception processing on the first pairing session message reported from the user side. When the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state, the first user plane network element determines the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the tunnel status between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element, combined with the number of sessions received from the second paired session reported from the user side and / or the online information of the first session in the second paired session on the second user plane network element. The first session is the session in the second paired session that is not online on the first user plane network element.

[0005] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a dual-selection containment disaster handling method, the method comprising: The second user plane network element receives session packets from the first user plane network element's second paired session through a tunnel between the second and first user plane network elements, and performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the session packets of the second paired session; or, The second user plane network element determines the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second paired session on the second user plane network element, wherein the first session is the session in the second paired session that is not online on the first user plane network element.

[0006] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a dual-target containment disaster handling method, the method comprising: The control plane network element receives a request message from the first user plane network element. The request message is used to request the control plane network element to query the status information of the second user plane network element and the online information of the first session in the second pairing session on the second user plane network element. The first session is the session in the second pairing session that is not online on the first user plane network element. The control plane network element sends a query message to the second user plane network element, the query message being used to instruct the second user plane network element to provide status information and the online information; The control plane network element sends a query response message to the first user plane network element. The query response message is used to indicate the status information and the online information of the second user plane network element. In the second paired session, the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element is used to determine the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session.

[0007] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a dual-selection containment disaster handling system, comprising: The first user plane network element is used to execute the method described in the first aspect above; The second user plane network element is used to perform the method described in the second aspect above; The control plane network element is used to perform the method described in the third aspect above.

[0008] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a processor, performs the methods described in the first, second, and third aspects described above.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide an electronic device including a memory and one or more processors, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processors are configured to execute the methods described in the first, second, and third aspects above through the computer program.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product, including at least one of a program and instructions, wherein when the program or instructions are executed by a communication device, they implement the steps of the methods described in the first, second, and third aspects.

[0011] According to the technical solution disclosed herein, the probabilistic failure of the dual-transmit selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover can be resolved, reducing the need for modification of terminal chips, lowering end-side costs, facilitating the large-scale expansion of related services, and being applicable to the network architecture of 5G networks, 4 / 5G converged core networks and subsequent mobile communication network evolution. It can improve user service experience and help operators develop 5G services.

[0012] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure.

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, for those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0015] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0016] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of a dual-transmitter selective receiver architecture according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 1B This is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1A The diagram shows an example of the media plane path in a dual-transmission selective reception architecture business process. Figure 1C This is a schematic diagram of the timeline for dual-transmission selective reception fault analysis according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 1D This is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1A The diagram shows an example of the media plane path in a dual-transmission selective reception architecture business process. Figure 1E This is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1A The diagram shows an example of the media plane path in a dual-transmission selective reception architecture business process. Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a dual-selection containment disaster handling method according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 3 This is an example diagram illustrating a dual-mode disaster response method (tunnel normal, backup UPF response mechanism 1) according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 4 This is an example diagram illustrating a dual-mode disaster response method (tunnel normal, backup UPF response mechanism two) according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 5 This is an example diagram illustrating a dual-mode disaster response method (tunnel normal, backup UPF response mechanism three) according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 6 This is an example diagram illustrating a dual-mode containment disaster handling method (tunnel failure, backup UPF handling mechanism 1) according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 7 This is an example diagram illustrating a dual-mode disaster handling method (tunnel failure, backup UPF handling mechanism two) according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 8 This is an example diagram illustrating a dual-mode disaster handling method (tunnel failure, backup UPF handling mechanism three) according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a dual-selection containment disaster handling method according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a dual-selection containment disaster handling method according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0017] Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. When the following description relates to the drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numerals in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this disclosure. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this disclosure as detailed in the appended claims.

[0018] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments. In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be mutually referenced. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0019] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0020] In the embodiments of this disclosure, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0021] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0022] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0023] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0024] In some embodiments, the main network elements of a 5G network architecture include policy control network elements (such as PCF (Policy Control Function), PCRF (Policy and Charging Control Function), PCF / PCRF), policy database network elements (such as UDR (Unified Data Repository), SPR (Subscription Profile Repository), UDR / SPR), service channel establishment control plane network elements (network functions: such as SMF (Session Management Function), PGW-C (PDN Gateway Control Plane), SMF / PGW-C), service channel establishment user plane network elements (network functions: such as UPF (User Plane Function), PGW-U (PDN Gateway User Plane), UPF / PGW-U), and access and mobility management network elements (network functions: such as AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function), MME (Mobility Management). The network elements include six categories: Entity (mobility management entity), application-side network elements (such as NEF (Network Exposure Function), ACC (Authentication Controller), SCEF (Service Capability Exposure Function), AF (Application Function), etc.), and the application platform. (1) Policy control network elements (such as PCF, PCRF, PCF / PCRF): are responsible for controlling the session / bearer policy of PDU (Protocol Data Unit), including the generation, modification and distribution of PCC (Policy Control and Charging) policies; usually, in order to improve the security and reliability of the network and the disaster recovery of network elements, policy control network elements are deployed in a group POOL (pool) manner, that is: multiple policy control network elements form a POOL, and the policy control network elements in the same POOL are responsible for the PDU session / bearer PCC service of one (or more) number segments of users, or the service of all users of the same DNN (Data Network Name) / APN (Access Point Name) (such as: IMS DNN / APN); (2) Policy database network elements (such as UDR, SPR, UDR / SPR): responsible for storing PCC policy data subscribed by users; (3) Access and Mobility Management Element (AMF): Responsible for user access and mobility management, including handling NAS signaling, access security authentication, network access control for 5G users, registration management, connection management, service requests, mobility restrictions, user reachability management, Xn / N2 based handover, and network element selection; (4) Service Channel Establishment Control Plane Element (SMF): Responsible for establishing PDU sessions / bearers for user terminals (UEs), including allocating IP addresses to user terminals (UEs) based on information of the selected service channel establishment user plane element (network function: such as UPF, PGW-U) (e.g., the location of the service channel establishment user plane element, the user IP address range it is responsible for, etc.), and responsible for executing the PCC policy issued by the policy control element (such as PCF, PCRF) for the corresponding PDU session / bearer; (5) Service Channel Establishment User Plane Network Element (UPF): Under the control of the service channel establishment control plane network element (network function: such as SMF, PGW-C), a user plane service channel connecting to the external IP network is established for the user terminal UE, and under the control of the service channel establishment control plane network element (network function: such as SMF, PGW-C / PCEF), the relevant PCC policy is executed; In the mobile communication network architecture, the network establishes a session / bearer channel (note: 5G calls it "session" and 4G calls it "bearer") between the user terminal UE and the data network (DN), enabling users to complete end-to-end communication.

[0025] In some embodiments, in current industrial control scenarios, industrial equipment (such as robots, robotic arms, etc.) can utilize mobile communication networks (such as 5G networks, but not limited to them) for data transmission. To improve transmission reliability, a system-level dual-path redundancy scheme can be implemented, and a dual-transmission selective reception scheme is proposed. The dual-transmission selective reception scheme in related technologies can be as follows: (1) The terminal side adopts dual UE configuration, and is unaware of the redundant copying and deduplication of packets; (2) Each UE is connected to an industrial gateway. The industrial gateway has two built-in 5G local area network (LAN) modules. Different 5G LAN modules access the 5G network through different wireless frequencies. (3) Dual UE access registration and session management are the same as the existing process. SMF does not parse the dual transmit / receive tags in the data packets or pair the sessions. (4) During the media plane session establishment phase, the UPF performs dual transmission and reception processing of data packets for dual UE dual sessions based on dual transmission and reception tags.

[0026] like Figure 1A As shown, the business processes involved in the dual-transmission selective reception architecture can be summarized as follows: Step 1: Industrial terminals (such as I / O modules in industrial control scenarios) access 5G devices that support dual-transmit and selective-receive functions (such as industrial gateways with built-in dual modules, industrial gateways with dual 5G UEs in front, AR routers, etc.). The two UEs or modules generate session request messages and carry pairing identifiers to access the mobile communication network base station, AMF, UDM and other network elements to complete access registration, authentication, and selection of control plane network elements for service transmission channels. Step 2: The control plane network element of the service transport channel distributes Session 1 and Session 2 to the same primary UPF responsible for the service using the session identifier (such as APN, slice information, etc.) carried in the session request; for example... Figure 1B As shown, the media path is as follows: Session 1: UE1-RAN-Primary UPF, where UE1 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG01). Session 2: UE2-RAN-Primary UPF, where UE2 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG02); Step 3: After the service channel is established, for the uplink, the primary UPF uses a dual-transmit selective reception protocol (such as FRER) to deduplicate the Session 1 and Session 2 packets and sends the deduplicated packets to the external data network. For the downlink, the external data network sends packet messages, and the primary UPF uses a dual-transmit selective reception protocol (such as FRER) to copy the downlink packets and sends the copied packets to a 5G device that supports dual-transmit selective reception. The 5G device deduplicates the two packets and then sends the deduplicated packets to the industrial terminal (such as I / O modules in industrial control scenarios).

[0027] The above-mentioned dual-spin-and-receive technology solution has the following drawbacks: (1) If the SMF does not parse the dual transmit / receive tag in the data packet and pair the sessions, then the paired sessions must be processed by the same UPF for dual transmit / receive. Therefore, the disaster recovery method for the media plane UPF is required to be 1+1 primary and backup mode. (2) The UPF adopts a primary / standby mode for disaster recovery. During the disaster recovery failover process of the primary / standby nodes, if the paired sessions are connected from different UPF devices, the dual-transmit / receive function will fail. The specific problem analysis is as follows: like Figure 1C The diagram shown is a timeline illustration of dual-transmission selective reception fault analysis according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 1C As shown, dual-spinner selection in a primary / backup UPF disaster recovery failover scenario presents the following five situations:

[0028] Regarding the above five situations, situation D represents the problem scenario addressed in this disclosure, and the business process analysis is as follows: Scenario A: The paired terminal connects before the primary UPF fails. When the primary UPF is running normally, such as Figure 1C As shown, both Session 1 and Session 2 of Pair A are connected through the primary UPF, and dual transmission and reception are performed in the primary UPF, which is the same as the existing scheme.

[0029] Scenario B: Paired terminals access the network during a primary UPF failure. like Figure 1C As shown, for sessions 3 and 4 of Pair B, when session 3 is established via the primary UPF, and the primary UPF fails at time T0 before session 4 is established, the network side performs a failover switchover of the primary UPF, deactivating session 3 and instructing it to be reactivated from the backup UPF. Subsequently, paired session 4 also comes online from the backup UPF, performing dual-transmission and selective reception on the backup UPF. The specific process is as follows: Following step 3 above: If there is no response message between the SMF probe of the current service and the primary UPF, it is determined that the primary UPF is faulty, and then step 4 is executed: Step 4: The SMF sends the tunnel information of the backup UPF to the RAN, notifying the RAN to re-establish the service channel to the backup UPF; for example... Figure 1D As shown, the media path is as follows: Session 3': UE1-RAN-standby UPF, where UE1 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG03). Session 4: UE2-RAN-standby UPF, where UE2 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG04). Step 5: After the service channel is re-established, for the uplink, the backup UPF uses a dual-transmit / receive protocol (such as FRER) to deduplicate Session 3' and Session 4 messages, and sends the deduplicated messages to the external data network; for the downlink, the external data network sends message messages, and the backup UPF uses a dual-transmit / receive protocol (such as FRER) to copy the downlink messages, and sends the copied double messages to a 5G gateway device that supports dual-transmit / receive functionality. The 5G gateway device deduplicates the two messages, and then sends the deduplicated messages to the industrial terminal (such as I / O modules in industrial control scenarios).

[0030] Scenario C: Paired terminals connect after the primary UPF fails. like Figure 1C As shown, for Pair C, both Session 5 and Session 6 are handled through the backup UPF, and dual transmission and reception are performed in the backup UPF, just like the existing scheme.

[0031] Scenario D: Paired terminals access the network during primary UPF failure recovery. For previously connected paired sessions, the backup UPF will still be used to maintain connectivity, and dual-transmission and reception will be performed on the backup UPF; such as Figure 1C As shown, for sessions 7 and 8 of the pair D that are currently being connected, session 7 is reconnected via the backup UPF. At time T0+△t, the primary UPF recovers from its failure, and session 8 is reconnected via the primary UPF. The specific process is as follows (following step 5 above): Step 6: When the SMF detects the restoration of the response message with the primary UPF, it determines that the primary UPF has resumed service and sends the tunnel information (Tunnel ID) of the primary UPF to the RAN, notifying the RAN to restore the service channel to the primary UPF. During the session channel restoration process, the following two scenarios may occur: Scenario 1: Both sender and receiver users are already online. The user's session media plane data is processed through a backup UPF, following the same user service processing path as shown in step 4 above. Taking session 3' and session 4 of Pair B as an example, ... Figure 1E As shown, the media path remains as follows: Session 3': UE1-RAN-standby UPF, where UE1 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG03). Session 4: UE2-RAN-standby UPF, where UE2 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG04). Scenario 2: During the failover period of the primary and backup UPFs for dual-transmitter selected users, the media plane data of user sessions 7 and 8 arrive at the SMF at different times, and the time difference between the two exceeds the disaster recovery establishment time. The media plane data of user sessions 7 and 8 are handled through the primary UPF and backup UPF respectively, as follows: Session 7's request arrives at the SMF earlier, before the network has completed the user plane switchover from the backup UPF to the primary UPF. The SMF sends the tunnel information of the backup UPF to the RAN side, and the RAN side then processes the media plane data of Session 7 through the backup UPF. Session 8's request arrives at the SMF later, after the SMF has completed the user plane switchover from the backup UPF to the primary UPF. The SMF sends the tunnel information of the primary UPF to the RAN side, and the RAN side then processes the media plane data of Session 8 through the primary UPF. Figure 1E As shown, the media plane routing for the two types of sessions is as follows: Session 7: UE1-RAN-Standby UPF, where UE1 carries a session pairing tag (e.g., the TAG field is identified as 07). Session 8: UE2-RAN-Primary UPF, where UE2 carries a session pair label (e.g., the TAG field is identified as 08).

[0032] Scenario 2 above is a problematic scenario. The existing backup UPF has the following handling methods, as detailed below: Handling method 1: The backup UPF simultaneously forwards the session packets to the application side. Problem Analysis: In the existing primary / standby disaster recovery configuration of UPFs, there is no interaction between the primary and standby UPFs. If the primary UPF also forwards user packets to the application side, this approach can lead to the application side receiving duplicate packets.

[0033] Handling Method 2: The backup UPF discards the session packets, or notifies the backup UPF to force the session offline and notifies the terminal to reconnect to the primary UPF. Problem Analysis: Under the existing primary / standby disaster recovery method for UPFs, there is no interaction between the primary and standby UPFs. This could lead to a situation where the standby UPF goes offline and the primary UPF does not receive session messages, causing a risk of service interruption. Therefore, this approach renders the session redundancy mechanism ineffective.

[0034] Scenario E: The paired terminal connects after the primary UPF fault is recovered. like Figure 1CAs shown, for sessions 9 and 10 of Pair E, both are routed through the primary UPF, with dual transmission and reception performed on the primary UPF. The dual-transmission / reception user is a newly accessed user; the priority of the backup UPF is reduced, and the priority of the primary UPF is increased. The primary / backup relationship between the two UPFs is restored. The media plane data for user sessions 05 and 06 are routed through the primary UPF, and the media plane routing is as follows: Session 9: UE1-RAN-Primary UPF, where UE1 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG09). Session 10: UE2-RAN-Primary UPF, where UE2 carries a session pair label (e.g., TAG10).

[0035] To address the problem scenario 2 in situation D (the paired terminal accesses the network during the primary UPF failure recovery period) analyzed above, this disclosure provides a new disaster recovery optimization technical solution, namely, a dual-selection disaster recovery processing method, mainly used to solve the problems in the following scenarios: (1) Network architecture applicable to 5G networks, 4 / 5G converged core networks and subsequent evolution of mobile communication networks; (2) Reducing the modification of terminal chips reduces terminal costs and helps to scale up related businesses; (3) Solve the problem of probabilistic failure of the dual-transmission and reception function during the disaster recovery and switching process.

[0036] The following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings, outlines a dual-mode disaster recovery method, system, storage medium, and electronic device according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a dual-option containment disaster handling method according to an exemplary embodiment, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the above method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0038] Step 201: The first user plane network element determines the status information of the second user plane network element.

[0039] In the embodiments disclosed herein, the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element can be in a primary / standby disaster recovery backup relationship. For example, the first user plane network element can be a standby UPF, and the second user plane network element can be the primary UPF. Both the first and second user plane network elements have dual-transmit / selective-receive functionality.

[0040] It should be noted that a tunnel interface can be opened between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element. The function of this tunnel can be described as follows: it is used by the first user plane network element to detect the status of the second user plane network element, such as whether it is faulty; and it is used for session processing between user plane network elements to forward data packets sent by the UE. In some possible embodiments, the first user plane network element can periodically detect the status information of the second user plane network element through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element. Optionally, when the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is normal, the first user plane network element can periodically detect the status information of the second user plane network element through this tunnel. For example, when the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is open (tunnel is normal), the first user plane network element can periodically send status detection messages to the second user plane network element through this tunnel to determine the status information of the second user plane network element.

[0041] It should be noted that if there is no tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element, or if a tunnel is opened between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element but the tunnel fails, the first user plane network element can probe the status information of the second user plane network element through the control plane network element. In some possible embodiments, the first user plane network element can send a request message to the control plane network element, which can be used to request the control plane network element to query the status information of the second user plane network element; the first user plane network element can determine the status information of the second user plane network element based on the response message of the control plane network element to the request message. For example, the first user plane network element periodically sends request messages through the N4 interface to all SMFs that can be responsible for the current session service, carrying parameters such as: slice, DNN, and the pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) of the current session, requesting the SMF to respond with the following messages: ① the status of the primary UPF to which the current session belongs; ② whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) parameters as the current session is online. When the SMF receives a request message from the first user plane network element, it sends a query message to the second user plane network element to which the current session belongs, inquiring whether another session with the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) parameters has come online. The second user plane network element replies with a response message to the SMF. After receiving the response message from the second user plane network element, the SMF can return the status information of the second user plane network element to the backup first user plane network element, thus enabling the first user plane network element to determine the status information of the second user plane network element.

[0042] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the control plane network element may be, for example, 5G SMF, 4 / 5G SMF / SAEGW-C, but is not limited to these.

[0043] Step 202: If the second user plane network element is in a fault state and has not completed fault recovery, the first user plane network element performs dual transmission and reception processing on the first pairing session message reported from the user side.

[0044] In the embodiments of this disclosure, if the first user plane network element determines that the second user plane network element is in a fault state and has not completed fault recovery based on the status information of the second user plane network element, the first user plane network element temporarily carries the service. The first user plane network element can forward the first pairing session message reported from the user side through the N6 interface. For the pairing session, a dual-transmission and selective reception processing method of first-come-first-served and last-come-discard can be adopted.

[0045] Step 203: When the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state, the first user plane network element determines the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the tunnel status between the first and second user plane network elements, combined with the number of sessions received from the user side and / or the online information of the first session in the second paired session on the second user plane network element. The first session may be a session in the second paired session that is not online on the first user plane network element.

[0046] In some possible embodiments, if the first user plane network element determines that the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state based on the status information of the second user plane network element, and if the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a normal state, the first user plane network element can forward the session packets of the second paired session to the second user plane network element so that the second user plane network element can perform dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second paired session. Alternatively, the number of sessions to be received for the second paired session can be determined based on the paired session waiting time threshold, and the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session can be determined based on the number of sessions received.

[0047] For example, when the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a normal state, if the second user plane network element completes fault recovery and returns to a normal state, the first user plane network element has two processing mechanisms: The first method involves the first user plane network element forwarding all session packets to the second user plane network element through a tunnel. In other words, the first user plane network element can forward all session packets reported from the user side to the second user plane network element through a tunnel.

[0048] For example, if a first user plane network element and a second user plane network element each have one session packet (these two session packets belong to the same paired session), the first user plane network element will forward one of its session packets through a tunnel to the second user plane network element. The second user plane network element will then perform selective transmission and reception processing on the two session packets of the paired session (e.g., for paired sessions, the first-to-last packet is sent, and the last packet is discarded). Alternatively, if a first user plane network element has two session packets belonging to the same paired session, it can forward both session packets of this paired session to the second user plane network element, which will then perform selective transmission and reception processing on the two session packets of the paired session (e.g., for paired sessions, the first-to-last packet is sent, and the last packet is discarded).

[0049] The second method involves setting a pairing session waiting time threshold for the first user plane network element, determining the number of sessions received for the same session pairing tag (e.g., Pair ID, Tag, etc.), and deciding on the message processing flow.

[0050] In some possible embodiments, the optional implementation of determining the number of sessions received for the second paired session based on the paired session waiting time threshold, and determining the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the number of sessions received, may include the following steps 11 to 12: In step 11, when the first user plane network element receives the first session message in the second pairing session, the pairing session waiting time threshold timer is started. In step 12, if the first user plane network element does not receive the second session message in the second paired session within the paired session waiting time threshold, it is determined that the first user plane network element has only received one session instance, and the first session message is forwarded to the second user plane network element through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element, so that the second user plane network element can perform dual transmission and reception processing on the two session messages of the second paired session. For example, when the first user plane network element receives the first session message in the second paired session reported from the user side, if it does not receive another session message in the second paired session (i.e., the second session message mentioned above) within the paired session waiting time threshold, the first user plane network element can determine that it has only received one session instance, and can forward the received first session message to the second user plane network element through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element.

[0051] In step 13, if the first user plane network element receives the second session message in the second paired session within the paired session waiting time threshold, it is determined that the first user plane network element has received the paired session instance, and the first user plane network element performs dual transmission and reception processing on the two session messages of the second paired session.

[0052] For example, when the first user plane network element receives the first session message from the second paired session reported by the user side, if it receives another session message (i.e., the second session message mentioned above) in the second paired session within the paired session waiting time threshold, the first user plane network element determines that it has received a paired session instance. The first user plane network element then performs dual-transmission and selective message deduplication on the two session messages of the second paired session and forwards the messages through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, the first message arrives first and the last message arrives later is discarded.

[0053] In some possible embodiments, if the first user plane network element determines that the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state based on the status information of the second user plane network element, and if the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a fault state, the first user plane network element can determine the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy of the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second paired session. The online information can be obtained by the control plane network element sending a query message to the second user plane network element based on the request message from the first user plane network element. For example, when the first user plane network element queries the status information of the second user plane network element through the control plane network element, it can also send a query message to the second user plane network element through the control plane network element to query whether there is another session that carries the same parameters as the current session, such as DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID). For example, the first user plane network element receives the second session in the second pair session and queries whether there is another session in the second pair session on the second user plane network element (i.e., the session in the second pair session that is not online in the first user plane network element)

[0054] In some possible embodiments, the optional implementation of determining the dual-transmission and selective-reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second paired session may include steps 21 to 22: In step 21, if it is determined that the first session is online in the second user plane network element based on the online information of the first session in the second pairing session, the first user plane network element discards the received session message of the second pairing session and sends a session deactivation request to the control plane network element to request the deactivation of the first session on the first user plane network element and instructs the first session to be reactivated on the second user plane network element. For example, if the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a fault state, and the first user plane network element determines, based on the status information of the second user plane network element, that the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) session has been online (i.e., the first session in the second pair session is online in the second user plane network element), then the first user plane network element can discard the received session packets of the second pair session (e.g., the second session packet of the second pair session), and can initiate the PFCP session procedure to request the deactivation of the user on the first user plane network element and instruct it to be reactivated on the second user plane network element.

[0055] In step 22, if it is determined that the first session is not online in the second user plane network element based on the online information of the first session in the second pairing session, the first user plane network element performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second pairing session received, and notifies the second user plane network element through the control plane network element to discard the session packets of the second pairing session received subsequently.

[0056] For example, if the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a fault state, and the first user plane network element determines, based on the status information of the second user plane network element, that the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) session is not online (i.e., the first session in the second pair session is not online in the second user plane network element), then the first user plane network element can perform dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the received second dialogue session, and forward the data packets through the N6 interface. For the pair session, the first one to arrive is sent first, and the last one to arrive is discarded. The control plane network element can notify the second user plane network element to discard the subsequently received sessions with the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID).

[0057] By implementing the embodiments disclosed herein, the probabilistic failure of the dual-transmission selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover can be resolved. It can effectively avoid the functional failure of the dual-transmission selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover without the need for terminal-side chip development, which is conducive to the large-scale expansion of related services. It is applicable to the network architecture of 5G networks, 4 / 5G converged core networks and subsequent mobile communication network evolution, which can improve user service experience and help operators develop 5G services.

[0058] To facilitate a clearer understanding of this disclosure by those skilled in the art, the following will be combined with... Figures 3 to 8The technical solution of this disclosure is described exemplarily. The dual-selection disaster recovery method provided in this disclosure is applicable to networking scenarios such as 5G networks, 4 / 5G converged core networks, and subsequent mobile communication network evolution. For example, the first user plane network element is used as the backup UPF, the second user plane network element as the primary UPF, and the control plane network element as the SMF.

[0059] For example, a tunnel interface is opened between the primary UPF and the backup UPF, which have dual-transmit and dual-receive capabilities. The function of this tunnel is described as follows: ① Used by the backup UPF to detect the status of the primary UPF, such as whether it is faulty; ② Perform session processing between UPFs to forward data packets sent by the UE.

[0060] The following two technical solutions are proposed for two scenarios: normal tunnel and abnormal tunnel. Scenario 1: The tunnel between the primary and backup UPFs is normal. The primary UPF processing mechanism is as follows: (1) Receive messages from backup network elements through the tunnel between the backup network element and the backup network element; (2) Maintain the existing redundancy processing mechanism, first come, first served, late arrivals discarded; (3) Count the number of paired sessions received, i.e., the number of sessions received by the primary UPF for a paired session identifier (e.g., PairID, Tag, etc.).

[0061] The backup UPF handling mechanism includes the following three types: (1) When the primary UPF is in a fault state, the backup UPF temporarily carries the service: the tunnel is open, and the backup UPF periodically sends status probe messages to the primary UPF through the tunnel to determine the status of the primary UPF. Upon receiving a probe feedback message, it indicates that the primary UPF is in a fault state. Figure 3 As shown, the backup UPF can forward packets through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, packets are sent on the first-come, first-served basis and discarded on the last-come. For details of the business process, please refer to Business Process 1 and Business Process 3 below.

[0062] (2) When the primary UPF is in the fault recovery period, both the primary and backup UPFs have the capability to provide new access bearers: At this time, for the SMF, upon receiving a session establishment request, it can choose to access both the primary and backup UPFs. The tunnel remains open, and the backup UPF periodically sends status probe messages to the primary UPF through the tunnel to determine the status of the primary UPF. Upon receiving the probe feedback message: If the primary UPF is still in a fault state, the backup UPF can perform dual-transmission selective message deduplication and forward messages through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, the first to arrive is sent first and the last to arrive is discarded. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process 1 and Business Process 3 below.

[0063] If the primary UPF is in a normal state, the backup UPF has two handling mechanisms: ①For example Figure 4 As shown, the standby UPF can forward all received session packets to the primary UPF through a tunnel. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process 1 and Business Process 3 below.

[0064] ② The backup UPF sets a paired session wait time threshold to determine the number of sessions received for the same paired tag (e.g., PairID, Tag, etc.) and decides the message processing flow. For example, Figure 5 As shown, when the backup UPF receives the first paired session, if it does not receive another paired session within the waiting time threshold, it determines that it has only received one paired session and forwards the session to the primary UPF through the tunnel. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process 5 below. When the backup UPF receives the first paired session, if it receives another paired session within the waiting time threshold, it performs dual-transmission selective message deduplication and forwards the message through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, the first one to arrive is sent first, and the last one to arrive is discarded. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process 2 and Business Process 4 below.

[0065] (3) When the primary UPF recovers from a failure and has the capability to access new bearers, the backup UPF only handles existing bearers: the tunnel remains open, and the backup UPF periodically sends status probe messages to the primary UPF through the tunnel to determine the status of the primary UPF. Upon receiving a probe feedback message, it indicates that the primary UPF is in a normal state. At this time, the backup UPF's processing mechanism is the same as in section (2) above, that is, the above describes two processing mechanisms for the backup UPF when the primary UPF is in a normal state. When all existing bearers handled by the backup UPF are released, that is, the backup UPF no longer handles service traffic, the backup UPF can stop sending status probe messages to the primary UPF, and the tunnel between the primary and backup UPFs is closed.

[0066] Scenario 2: Tunnel failure between primary and backup UPFs The primary UPF processing mechanism may include: (1) Receive messages from backup network elements through the tunnel between the backup network element and the backup network element; (2) Maintain the existing redundancy processing mechanism, first come, first served, late arrivals discarded; (3) Receive and respond to status probe messages from SMF (including its own device status and pairing session arrival statistics, etc.), and discard data packets from UE after receiving instructions from SMF; (4) Count the arrival status of paired sessions, that is, how many sessions the primary UPF receives for a paired session identifier (e.g., PairID, Tag, etc.).

[0067] Backup UPF handling mechanisms may include the following three: (1) When the primary UPF is in a fault state, the backup UPF temporarily carries the service: The backup UPF can periodically send request messages through the N4 interface to all SMFs that can handle the current session's service. These messages can carry parameters such as slice, DNN, and the pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) of the current session, requesting the SMF to respond with the following messages: ① the status of the primary UPF to which the current session belongs; ② whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online. Upon receiving the request message from the backup UPF, the SMF can send a query message to the primary UPF to which the current session belongs to inquire whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online. The primary UPF replies with a response message to the SMF.

[0068] The SMF returns a status message to the standby UPF indicating that the primary UPF is in a fault state, and no corresponding DNN, slice, or pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) session has come online. Therefore: Figure 6 As shown, the backup UPF can forward packets through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, packets are sent on the first-come, first-served basis and discarded on the last-come. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process Six below.

[0069] (2) When the primary UPF is in the fault recovery period, both the primary and backup UPFs have the capability to provide new access bearers: In this case, when the SMF receives a session establishment request, it can choose to access both the primary and backup UPFs. The backup UPF can periodically send request messages via the N4 interface to all SMFs capable of handling the current session's traffic. These messages carry parameters such as slice, DNN, and the pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) for the current session, requesting the SMF to respond with the following messages: ① the status of the primary UPF to which the current session belongs; ② whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online. Upon receiving the request message from the backup UPF, the SMF sends a query message to the primary UPF to which the current session belongs, inquiring whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online. The primary UPF replies with a response message to the SMF. The SMF then returns a response message to the backup UPF.

[0070] If the SMF returns a fault status for the primary UPF to the backup UPF, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) session is not online, then: Figure 6As shown, the backup UPF can forward packets through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, packets are sent on the first-come, first-served basis and discarded on the last-come. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process Six below.

[0071] If the SMF returns a normal status for the primary UPF to the backup UPF, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) sessions are online, then: Figure 7 As shown, the standby UPF can discard the data packet and initiate the PFCP session process to request the deactivation of the user on the standby UPF and instruct it to be reactivated on the primary UPF. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process Seven below.

[0072] If the SMF returns a normal status for the primary UPF to the backup UPF, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) session is not online, then: Figure 8 As shown, the backup UPF can forward data packets through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, the first to arrive is sent and the last to arrive is discarded. The SMF notifies the primary UPF that subsequent sessions with corresponding DNNs, slices, and paired session identifiers (such as Tags and Pair IDs) will be discarded. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process VI and Business Process VII below.

[0073] (3) When the primary UPF recovers from a failure, the primary UPF has the capability to connect new bearers, while the backup UPF only restores existing bearers: The backup UPF can periodically send request messages via the N4 interface to all SMFs capable of handling the current session's traffic. These messages carry parameters such as slice, DNN, and the pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) for the current session, requesting the SMF to respond with the following messages: ① the status of the primary UPF to which the current session belongs; ② whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online. Upon receiving the request message from the backup UPF, the SMF sends a query message to the primary UPF to which the current session belongs, inquiring whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online. The primary UPF replies with a response message to the SMF. The SMF then returns a response message to the backup UPF.

[0074] If the SMF returns a normal status for the primary UPF to the backup UPF, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) sessions are online, then: Figure 6 As shown, the standby UPF discards the data packet and initiates the PFCP session process, requesting to deactivate the user on the standby UPF and instructing to reactivate the user on the primary UPF. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process Seven below.

[0075] If the SMF returns a normal status for the primary UPF to the backup UPF, and the corresponding DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) session is not online, then: Figure 7 As shown, the backup UPF can forward data packets through the N6 interface. For paired sessions, the first to arrive is sent and the last to arrive is discarded. The SMF notifies the primary UPF that subsequent sessions with corresponding paired session identifiers (such as Tag, PairID) will be discarded. For details of the specific business process, please refer to Business Process VI and Business Process VII below.

[0076] If all existing bearers that the backup UPF is channeling are released, meaning the backup UPF no longer channels service traffic, then the backup UPF will stop sending request messages to the SMF.

[0077] Meanwhile, if the tunnel between the primary and backup UPFs is restored, the dual-transmission and selective reception processing mechanism of Case 1 will be used first.

[0078] Optionally, the business processes involved in this disclosure are as follows: Scenario 1 (Tunnel between primary and backup UPFs is normal) Business Process Regarding the above-mentioned situation one, the dual-transmission selective reception process proposed in this disclosure can be as follows: Business process one, this dual-transmission and reception selection processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps: Step 0: UE1 initiates a PDU session 01 establishment request, which is carried on the primary UPF; UE2 initiates a PDU session 02 establishment request, which is carried on the primary UPF. The primary UPF performs dual-transmission selective reception (first-come, first-served is forwarded, last-come is discarded), and the service operates normally.

[0079] Step 1: If the primary UPF fails, UE1 and UE2 re-initiate the PDU session establishment, and the PDU session is carried on the backup UPF. The backup UPF performs dual transmission and reception selection (first-to-last transmission is forwarded, and last-to-last transmission is discarded).

[0080] The above steps are the same as existing technical solutions. Steps 2 to 4 of this process are the technical solutions provided in this disclosure.

[0081] Step 2: After the primary UPF fails, a tunnel is established between the primary and backup UPFs. The backup UPF periodically sends status probe messages to the primary UPF through the UPF tunnel to detect the status of the primary UPF.

[0082] Step 3-1: If the response message of the state probe message is still in the fault state of the primary UPF, the backup UPF performs dual transmission and reception (the first one is forwarded, and the second one is discarded).

[0083] Step 3-2: If the primary UPF recovers from the fault during this period, the response message of the status probe message will indicate that the primary UPF is in a normal state, and then proceed to step 4.

[0084] Step 4: (Optional) The standby UPF forwards the PDU session messages of UE1 and UE2 to the primary UPF through the UPF tunnel, and performs dual transmission and reception selection (the first to arrive is forwarded, and the last to arrive is discarded) in the primary UPF.

[0085] Business Process Two: This dual-transmission and reception processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps. Steps 0 to 3-2: Same as the above business process one; Step 4: (Optional) If the number of sessions with the same session pairing identifier carried on this UPF is 2, that is, the sessions of paired terminals UE1 and UE2 are both carried on the backup UPF, then dual transmission and reception (first-come, first-served forwarding, last-come, first-discard) is performed on the backup UPF.

[0086] Business process three, this dual-transmission and reception processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps: Step 0: UE1 initiates a PDU session 01 establishment request, and PDU session 01 is carried on the primary UPF; if the primary UPF fails, primary / standby disaster recovery failover is initiated, and the standby UPF begins carrying services. UE2 initiates a PDU session 02 establishment request, and PDU session 02 is carried on the standby UPF.

[0087] Step 1: UE1 re-initiates PDU session establishment, and the PDU session is carried on the standby UPF, which performs dual transmission and reception selection (first-to-receive forwards, last-to-receive discards).

[0088] Steps 2 through 4: Same as the above business process one.

[0089] Business process four, this dual-transmission and reception selection processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps: Step 0: UE1 initiates a PDU session 01 establishment request, and PDU session 01 is carried on the primary UPF; if the primary UPF fails, primary / standby disaster recovery failover is initiated, and the standby UPF begins carrying services. UE2 initiates a PDU session 02 establishment request, and PDU session 02 is carried on the standby UPF.

[0090] Step 1: UE1 re-initiates PDU session establishment, and the PDU session is carried on the standby UPF, which performs dual transmission and reception selection (first-to-receive forwards, last-to-receive discards).

[0091] Steps 2 to 4: Same as business process two above.

[0092] Business process five, this dual-transmission and reception processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps: Step 1: If the primary UPF fails, a tunnel is established between the primary and backup UPFs. The backup UPF periodically sends status probe messages to the primary UPF through the UPF tunnel to detect the status of the primary UPF.

[0093] Step 2: The response message to the status probe message indicates that the primary UPF is still in a fault state.

[0094] Step 3: UE1 initiates a PDU session 01 establishment request, and PDU session 01 is carried on the standby UPF.

[0095] Step 4: During this period, the primary UPF recovers from the fault, and UE2, the paired terminal of UE1, initiates a PDU session 02 establishment request. The PDU session 02 is carried on the primary UPF.

[0096] Step 5: The standby UPF periodically sends status probe messages to the primary UPF through the UPF tunnel to probe the status of the primary UPF.

[0097] Step 6: The response message to the state probe message indicates that the primary UPF is in a normal state.

[0098] Step 7: The backup UPF forwards UE1's PDU session messages to the primary UPF through the UPF tunnel, and the primary UPF performs dual transmission and reception selection (first-to-receive is forwarded, second-to-receive is discarded).

[0099] Scenario 2 (Tunnel failure between primary and backup UPFs) Business Process For scenario two, the dual-transmission selection and reception processing procedure provided in this disclosure is detailed below: Business process six, this dual-transmission and reception selection processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps: Steps 0 to 1: Same as the above business process one.

[0100] Step 2: The backup UPF periodically sends request messages through the N4 interface to all SMFs that can handle the current session's business, carrying parameters such as: slice, DNN, and the pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) of the current session, requesting the SMF to respond with the following messages: ① the status of the primary UPF to which the current session belongs; ② whether another session carrying the same DNN, slice, and pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) as the current session is online.

[0101] Step 3: SMF detects the status of the primary UPF and queries the primary UPF as needed to see if there are any sessions with corresponding pair session identifiers (such as Tag, Pair ID) online.

[0102] Step 4: The primary UPF returns a response message to the SMF.

[0103] Step 5: The SMF periodically returns N4 interface response messages to the standby UPF, including the status of the primary UPF and whether the pairing session on the primary UPF is online.

[0104] Step 6-1: If the primary UPF fails to recover from the fault during this period, the backup UPF receives a feedback message from the SMF indicating that the primary UPF is still in a fault state. The backup UPF then performs dual-transmission selective reception (first-to-receive forwards, second-to-receive discards).

[0105] Step 6-2: If the primary UPF has completed fault recovery during this period, the backup UPF receives a feedback message from the SMF indicating that the primary UPF is in normal state and the other paired session is not online on the primary UPF. Then the backup UPF performs dual-transmission selective reception (first-come, first-served is forwarded, second-come is discarded) and executes step 7.

[0106] Step 7: The SMF sends a notification message to the primary UPF, instructing that any subsequent sessions receiving the corresponding pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) should be discarded. It should be noted that steps 7 and 6 are not strictly sequential; step 7 can be executed after the SMF completes its state probe to the primary UPF.

[0107] Business process seven, this dual-transmission and reception selection processing method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps: Step 0-1: The primary UPF fails, and UE1 initiates a PDU session 01 establishment request. PDU session 01 is carried on the backup UPF.

[0108] Step 0-2: Primary UPF failure recovery, UE2 initiates PDU session 02 establishment request, PDU session 02 is carried on the primary UPF.

[0109] Steps 1 to 4: Same as steps 2 to 5 of business process 6 above.

[0110] Step 5: If the primary UPF is in a normal state and another paired session is already online on the primary UPF, the standby UPF sends a message to the SMF requesting to deactivate the session on the standby UPF and instructing that it be reactivated on the primary UPF.

[0111] Step 6: The SMF receives a session deactivation request from the standby UPF and executes the UE1 session deactivation procedure.

[0112] Step 7: UE1 re-initiates PDU session establishment, with PDU session 01 carried on the primary UPF. At this time, both paired PDU sessions 01 and 02 are carried on the primary UPF, and the primary UPF performs dual-transmission selective reception (first-come, first-served is forwarded, second-come, second-served is discarded).

[0113] Step 8: If the primary UPF is in normal condition and the other paired session is not online on the primary UPF, the backup UPF will perform dual-transmission selective reception (first-to-receive forwards, second-to-receive discards) and proceed to step 9.

[0114] Step 9: The SMF sends a notification message to the primary UPF, instructing that any subsequent sessions receiving the corresponding pair session identifier (e.g., Tag, Pair ID) should be discarded. It should be noted that step 9 is not strictly sequential with steps 5 through 8; step 9 can be executed after the SMF completes its state probe to the primary UPF.

[0115] It should be noted that, for the sake of simplicity, the foregoing method embodiments are all described as a series of actions. However, those skilled in the art should understand that this disclosure is not limited to the described order of actions, because according to this disclosure, some steps can be performed in other orders or simultaneously. Furthermore, those skilled in the art should also understand that the embodiments described in the specification are preferred embodiments, and the actions and modules involved are not necessarily essential to this disclosure.

[0116] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a dual-option containment disaster handling method according to an exemplary embodiment, such as... Figure 9 As shown, the above method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps 901 or 902.

[0117] In step 901, the second user plane network element receives session messages of the second paired session from the first user plane network element through the tunnel between the second user plane network element and the first user plane network element, and performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the session messages of the second paired session.

[0118] In step 902, the second user plane network element determines the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets in the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element within the second paired session. The first session is the session in the second paired session that is not online in the first user plane network element. This online information can be obtained by the control plane network element sending a query message to the second user plane network element based on a request message from the first user plane network element.

[0119] It should be noted that steps 901 and 902 are not sequential in time; they are either parallel or sequential.

[0120] Optionally, in some embodiments, the second user plane network element can send a probe feedback message to the first user plane network element through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element to indicate the status information of the second user plane network element.

[0121] Optionally, in some embodiments, the second user plane network element may receive a query message sent by the control plane network element and send a query response message to the control plane network element based on the query message to indicate the status information of the second user plane network element.

[0122] Optionally, in some embodiments, the optional implementation of determining the dual-transmission and selective-reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second paired session may include: When the first session is determined to be online on the second user plane network element based on the online information of the first session in the second pairing session, the second user plane network element receives the session deactivation request sent by the control plane network element, reactivates the first session on the second user plane network element, and performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second pairing session. The session deactivation request is sent by the first user plane network element to the control plane network element after discarding the received session packets of the second pairing session, in order to request the deactivation of the first session on the first user plane network element and instruct to reactivate the first session on the second user plane network element. If, based on the online information of the first session in the second pairing session, it is determined that the first session is not online in the second user plane network element, the second user plane network element receives a notification message sent by the control plane network element, and subsequently discards the session packets of the second pairing session when it receives them. The notification message is sent by the control plane network element after the first user plane network element performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second pairing session received, so as to notify the second user plane network element to discard the session packets of the second pairing session received subsequently.

[0123] The dual-shot selective containment disaster processing method disclosed in this embodiment can be applied to a second user plane network element. The implementation of the dual-shot selective containment disaster processing method on the second user plane network element side can be found in the description of the method embodiment on the first user plane network element side above, and will not be repeated here.

[0124] By implementing the embodiments disclosed herein, the probabilistic failure of the dual-transmission selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover can be resolved. It can effectively avoid the functional failure of the dual-transmission selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover without the need for terminal-side chip development, which is conducive to the large-scale expansion of related services. It is applicable to the network architecture of 5G networks, 4 / 5G converged core networks and subsequent mobile communication network evolution, which can improve user service experience and help operators develop 5G services.

[0125] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a dual-option containment disaster handling method according to an exemplary embodiment, such as... Figure 10 As shown, the above method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps.

[0126] Step 1001: The control plane network element receives a request message from the first user plane network element. The request message is used to request the control plane network element to query the status information of the second user plane network element and the online information of the first session in the second pairing session on the second user plane network element. The first session is the session in the second pairing session that is not online on the first user plane network element.

[0127] Step 1002: The control plane network element sends a query message to the second user plane network element. The query message is used to instruct the second user plane network element to provide status information and online information.

[0128] Step 1003: The control plane network element sends a query response message to the first user plane network element. The query response message is used to indicate the status information and online information of the second user plane network element.

[0129] In the second pairing session, the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element can be used to determine the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session messages of the second pairing session.

[0130] The dual-shot selective containment disaster processing method disclosed in this embodiment can be applied to control plane network elements. The implementation of the dual-shot selective containment disaster processing method on the control plane network element side can be found in the description of the first user plane network element side method embodiment above, and will not be repeated here.

[0131] By implementing the embodiments disclosed herein, the probabilistic failure of the dual-transmission selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover can be resolved. It can effectively avoid the functional failure of the dual-transmission selective reception function during disaster recovery and handover without the need for terminal-side chip development, which is conducive to the large-scale expansion of related services. It is applicable to the network architecture of 5G networks, 4 / 5G converged core networks and subsequent mobile communication network evolution, which can improve user service experience and help operators develop 5G services.

[0132] This disclosure also provides a dual-mode disaster recovery system, which may include, but is not limited to, a first user plane network element, a second user plane network element, and a control plane network element. The first user plane network element can execute the methods described in the aforementioned first user plane network element-side method embodiments; the second user plane network element can execute the methods described in the aforementioned second user plane network element-side method embodiments; and the control plane network element can execute the methods described in the aforementioned control plane network element-side method embodiments. Further details are omitted here.

[0133] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device 1100 proposed in this embodiment. The electronic device 1100 can be a network device (e.g., access network device, core network device, etc.), or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods. The electronic device 1100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0134] like Figure 11 As shown, the electronic device 1100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the electronic device 1100 includes one or more processors 1101. The processor 1101 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the electronic device 1100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 1101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the electronic device 1100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0135] In some embodiments, the electronic device 1100 further includes one or more transceivers 1102. When the electronic device 1100 includes one or more transceivers 1102, the transceiver 1102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps 901, 1001, 1002, 1003, but not limited thereto), and the processor 1101 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps 201, 202, 203, 902, but not limited thereto). In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0136] In some embodiments, the electronic device 1100 further includes one or more memories 1103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 1101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 1103 to cause the electronic device 1100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 1103 may also be located outside the electronic device 1100. In an optional embodiment, the electronic device 1100 may include one or more interface circuits 1104. Optionally, the interface circuit 1104 is connected to the memory 1102 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 1102 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 1102 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 1104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 1102 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 1101.

[0137] The electronic device 1100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device, but the scope of the electronic device 1100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the electronic device 1100 may vary. Figure 11 The limitations. The communication device may be a standalone device or part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally including storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0138] The modules and / or devices described in the various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be combined or separated arbitrarily as needed. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0139] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0140] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0141] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

[0142] Other embodiments of this disclosure will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of this disclosure that follow the general principles of this disclosure and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of this disclosure are indicated by the following claims.

[0143] It should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the precise structures described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A dual-selection containment disaster handling method, characterized in that, The method includes: The first user plane network element determines the status information of the second user plane network element; the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element have a primary and backup disaster recovery relationship. When the second user plane network element is in a fault state and has not completed fault recovery, the first user plane network element performs dual transmission and reception processing on the first pairing session message reported from the user side. When the second user plane network element has completed fault recovery and is in a normal state, the first user plane network element determines the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the tunnel status between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element, combined with the number of sessions received from the second paired session reported from the user side and / or the online information of the first session in the second paired session on the second user plane network element. The first session is the session in the second paired session that is not online on the first user plane network element.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the tunnel status with the second user plane network element, combined with the number of sessions received from the user side for the second paired session and / or the online information of the first session in the second paired session on the second user plane network element, includes: When the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a normal state, the session packets of the second pairing session are forwarded to the second user plane network element so that the second user plane network element performs dual transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second pairing session. Alternatively, the number of sessions received for the second pairing session is determined according to the pairing session waiting time threshold, and the dual transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second pairing session is determined according to the number of sessions received. When the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element is in a fault state, the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy of the two session packets of the second paired session is determined based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second paired session.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of determining the number of sessions received for the second paired session based on the paired session waiting time threshold, and determining the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the number of sessions received, includes: When the first user plane network element receives the first session message in the second pairing session, it starts the pairing session waiting time threshold timer. If the first user plane network element does not receive the second session message in the second paired session within the paired session waiting time threshold, it is determined that the first user plane network element has only received one session instance, and the first session message is forwarded to the second user plane network element through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element, so that the second user plane network element can perform dual transmission and reception processing on the two session messages of the second paired session. If, within the paired session waiting time threshold, the first user plane network element receives the second session message in the second paired session, it is determined that the first user plane network element has received a paired session instance, and the first user plane network element performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session messages of the second paired session.

4. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The step of determining the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second paired session includes: If, based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second pairing session, it is determined that the first user plane network element is online in the second user plane network element, the first user plane network element discards the received session message of the second pairing session and sends a session deactivation request to the control plane network element to request the deactivation of the first session on the first user plane network element and instructs the first session to be reactivated on the second user plane network element. If, based on the online information of the first session in the second pairing session, it is determined that the first session is not online in the second user plane network element, the first user plane network element performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second pairing session received, and notifies the second user plane network element through the control plane network element to discard the session packets of the second pairing session received subsequently. The online information is obtained by the control plane network element sending a query message to the second user plane network element based on the request message from the first user plane network element.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The determination of the status information of the second user plane network element includes: The status information of the second user plane network element is periodically detected through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element; or, A request message is sent to the control plane network element, the request message being used to request the control plane network element to query the status information of the second user plane network element, and the status information of the second user plane network element is determined based on the response message of the control plane network element to the request message.

6. A dual-target containment disaster handling method, characterized in that, The method includes: The second user plane network element receives session packets from the first user plane network element's second paired session through a tunnel between the second and first user plane network elements, and performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the session packets of the second paired session; or, The second user plane network element determines the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second paired session on the second user plane network element, wherein the first session is the session in the second paired session that is not online on the first user plane network element.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: A probe feedback message is sent to the first user plane network element through the tunnel between the first user plane network element and the second user plane network element to indicate the status information of the second user plane network element; or... The system receives a query message sent by a control plane network element and sends a query response message to the control plane network element based on the query message to indicate the status information of the second user plane network element.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The step of determining the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session based on the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element in the second paired session includes: If, based on the online information of the first session in the second paired session, it is determined that the first session is online in the second user plane network element, the second user plane network element receives a session deactivation request sent by the control plane network element, reactivates the first session on the second user plane network element, and performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second paired session. The session deactivation request is sent by the first user plane network element to the control plane network element after discarding the received session packets of the second paired session, in order to request the deactivation of the first session on the first user plane network element and instruct to reactivate the first session on the second user plane network element. If, based on the online information of the first session in the second pairing session, it is determined that the first session is not online in the second user plane network element, the second user plane network element receives a notification message sent by the control plane network element, and discards the subsequent session packets of the second pairing session when it receives them. The notification message is sent by the control plane network element after the first user plane network element performs dual-transmission and selective reception processing on the two session packets of the second pairing session received, so as to notify the second user plane network element to discard the subsequent session packets of the second pairing session received. The online information is obtained by the control plane network element sending a query message to the second user plane network element based on the request message from the first user plane network element.

9. A dual-selection containment disaster handling method, characterized in that, The method includes: The control plane network element receives a request message from the first user plane network element. The request message is used to request the control plane network element to query the status information of the second user plane network element and the online information of the first session in the second pairing session on the second user plane network element. The first session is the session in the second pairing session that is not online on the first user plane network element. The control plane network element sends a query message to the second user plane network element, the query message being used to instruct the second user plane network element to provide status information and the online information; The control plane network element sends a query response message to the first user plane network element. The query response message is used to indicate the status information and the online information of the second user plane network element. In the second paired session, the online information of the first session in the second user plane network element is used to determine the dual-transmission and selective reception processing strategy for the two session packets of the second paired session.

10. A dual-mode disaster recovery and containment system, characterized in that, include: A first user plane network element is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 1-5; The second user plane network element is used to perform the method according to any one of claims 6-8; A control plane element is used to perform the method described in claim 9.

11. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, characterized in that, The computer program is executed by the processor to perform the method described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

12. An electronic device comprising a memory and one or more processors, characterized in that, The memory stores a computer program, and the processor is configured to execute the method described in any one of claims 1 to 9 through the computer program.

13. A program product comprising at least one of a program and instructions, characterized in that, When at least one of the programs or instructions is executed by the communication device, it implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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