A communication method and apparatus, device, program product, storage medium

Abstract

The application discloses a communication method and device, equipment, program product and storage medium, and the method comprises the following steps: a first network function receives first information sent by a first computing node or receives first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity, wherein the first information comprises one or more of the following information: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of mobile communication technology, and in particular to a communication method, apparatus, device, program product, and storage medium. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communications, networks need to empower various business scenarios across industries, such as XR, AI cloud gaming, and industrial robots. These business scenarios place extreme demands on computing and networking for user experience. However, the existing network architecture that separates computing and networking cannot meet these needs. Therefore, enhancing the new capabilities of computing and networking convergence is an inevitable path. Summary of the Invention

[0003] To address the aforementioned technical problems, this application provides a communication method, apparatus, device, program product, and storage medium.

[0004] The communication method provided in this application is applied to a first network function, and the method includes:

[0005] The first network function receives first information sent by the first computing node or receives first information sent by the first computing node through at least one function or entity. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

[0006] The communication method provided in this application is applied to a second network function, and the method includes:

[0007] The second network function sends the first information to the first network function or sends the first information to the first network function via at least one network function. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

[0008] The communication method provided in this application is applied to a third network function, and the method includes:

[0009] The third network function sends a first address and / or second indication information to the first computing node; the second indication information indicates that first information is sent to the first address, and the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

[0010] The communication device provided in this application is applied to a first network function, and the device includes:

[0011] The first communication unit is configured to receive first information sent by the first computing node or to receive first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

[0012] The communication device provided in this application is used in a second network function, and the device includes:

[0013] The second communication unit is used to send first information to the first network function or to the first network function via at least one network function. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

[0014] The communication device provided in this application is applied to a third network function, and the device includes:

[0015] The third communication unit is used to send a first address and / or second indication information to the first computing node; the second indication information indicates that first information is sent to the first address, and the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

[0016] The communication device provided in this application includes a processor and a memory, the memory being used to store computer programs, and the processor being used to call and run the computer programs stored in the memory to execute any of the above-described communication methods.

[0017] This application provides a computer program product comprising: a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements any of the methods described above.

[0018] The computer-readable storage medium provided in this application is used to store a computer program that causes a computer to perform any of the methods described above.

[0019] In the technical solution of this application, a first network function receives first information sent by a first computing node or receives first information sent by the first computing node through at least one function or entity. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node. This enables the first network function to manage the first computing node, facilitating the discovery, selection, and scheduling of computing tasks for the first computing node. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the network architecture provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the NF registration process provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 ;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0029] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0030] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 ;

[0031] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural diagram of the chip according to an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0034] In the following description, references are made to “some embodiments,” which describe a subset of all possible embodiments. However, it is understood that “some embodiments” may be the same subset or different subsets of all possible embodiments and may be combined with each other without conflict.

[0035] It should also be noted that the terms "first, second, and third" used in the embodiments of this application are only used to distinguish similar objects and do not represent a specific order of objects. It is understood that "first, second, and third" can be interchanged in a specific order or sequence where permitted, so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented in an order other than that illustrated or described herein.

[0036] It should be noted that the term "and / or" in this document is merely a description of the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. Additionally, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. It should also be understood that "instruction" mentioned in the embodiments of this application can be a direct instruction, an indirect instruction, or an indication of a related relationship. For example, A instructing B can mean that A directly instructs B, for example, B can be obtained through A; it can also mean that A indirectly instructs B, for example, A instructs C, B can be obtained through C; or it can mean that there is a related relationship between A and B. It should also be understood that "correspondence" mentioned in the embodiments of this application can mean that there is a direct or indirect correspondence between two things, or an related relationship between two things, or an instruction and being instructed, configuration and being configured, etc. It should also be understood that in the embodiments of this application, the "protocol" can refer to standard protocols in the field of communication, such as the NR protocol and related protocols applied to future communication systems; this application does not limit this.

[0037] It should be noted that the terms "computing node" and "computing resource" in this application can also be referred to as "computing power node" and "computing power resource".

[0038] It should be noted that the computing node in this application can also be replaced by a Computing Execution Function (CEF) or any function or entity related to computing execution or operation. Alternatively, the CEF is a functional unit deployed in the computing node, whose function includes the execution of computation. In the following embodiments, the UE, NF (or RAN) serving as the computing node can also be replaced by any function or entity related to computing execution or operation (e.g., CEF).

[0039] It should be noted that the function or entity A sending information X to function or entity B as described in this application can mean that A sends X directly to B, or that A sends X to B through at least one function or entity.

[0040] To facilitate understanding of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the relevant technologies of the embodiments of this application are described below. The following relevant technologies are optional solutions and can be combined with the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application in any way, and they all fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the network architecture provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 1 As shown, this includes User Equipment (UE), Radio Access Network (RAN), Computing Control Function (CCF), Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), Network Repository Function (NRF), and User Plane Function (UPF). It should be noted that the technical solutions of this application embodiment can be applied to, but are not limited to, [specific applications]. Figure 1 The network architecture shown is in Figure 1 The network architecture shown can be modified in some ways, or have more or fewer network functions. Furthermore, Figure 1The names of the various network functions in the illustrated network architecture are based on a 5G system. As the communication system evolves, these network function names may be replaced. In other words, this application embodiment does not limit the names of network functions, as long as they can achieve the corresponding functions. Taking CCF as an example, CCF can also be described with other names. This network function may include one or more of the following functions: management of computing nodes, identification of computing requirements, decomposition of computing tasks, and management of computing sessions, etc. It should also be noted that CCF may be deployed as an independently deployed NF, or it may be co-located with other NFs. For example, CCF may be co-located with SMF or NRF. It may also be a logical function enhanced by other NFs. For example, SMF has all the functions of CCF mentioned above, so there is no need to deploy CCF separately. Computing nodes may include the end side (i.e., UE), the network side (including RAN, core network NF), the edge side (such as edge computing platform), and the cloud side (such as remote DN). The computing nodes have computing resources and computing execution capabilities.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the NF registration process provided in an embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the NF registration process includes the following steps:

[0043] Step 201: NF initiates registration with NRF.

[0044] Specifically, it can be Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegister_request.

[0045] The NF initiates registration with the NRF, sending its profile, including any of the following: NF category, NF instanceID, NF's official domain name / fully qualified domain name (FQDN) or IP address, and the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) ID to which the NF belongs. For a specific NF, other information can also be registered, such as DNN, S-NSSAI, etc.; if the NF is a UDR, SUPI range, GPSI range, etc. can also be provided; if the NF is an AMF, a GUAMI list can also be provided; if the NF is a PCF, ProSe capabilities, V2X capabilities, etc., can also be provided.

[0046] Step 202: NRF stores the NF profile.

[0047] Step 203: NRF returns the registration result.

[0048] Specifically, it can be Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegister_response.

[0049] With the development of communications, networks need to empower various business scenarios across industries, such as XR, AI cloud gaming, and industrial robots. These business scenarios place extreme demands on computing and network performance, and the existing network architecture that separates computing and network capabilities cannot meet these needs. Therefore, researching new capabilities for computing-network convergence is an inevitable path. Computing-network convergence is the application of computing power networks in mobile networks, integrating computing capabilities and resources within the mobile network, with the mobile network managing and executing computing tasks. Therefore, how to achieve mobile network management of computing nodes becomes a problem that needs to be considered. To this end, the following technical solutions are proposed in the embodiments of this application.

[0050] To facilitate understanding of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the technical solutions of this application are described in detail below through specific embodiments. The above-mentioned related technologies are optional solutions and can be arbitrarily combined with the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, all of which fall within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. The embodiments of this application include at least some of the following contents.

[0051] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 Applied to the first network function, such as Figure 3 As shown, the communication method includes the following steps:

[0052] Step 301: The first network function receives the first information sent by the first computing node or receives the first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity.

[0053] In some implementations, the first computing node includes one or more of the following: UE, RAN, NF; and / or, the first network function includes one or more of the following: Computation Control Function (CCF), Session Management Function (SMF), Network Storage Function (NRF).

[0054] In some implementations, the first network function may be a CCF, which receives first information sent by a first computing node, or the CCF receives first information sent by a first computing node via at least one function or entity.

[0055] In some implementations, the first network function may also be an NRF, which receives first information sent by the first computing node, or the NRF receives first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity.

[0056] In some implementations, the first computing node may be a UE (or deployed on a UE), the UE may send the first information to a first network function, or the UE may send the first information to a first network function via at least one function or entity.

[0057] In some implementations, the first computing node may be an NF (or deployed on an NF) or a RAN (or deployed on an RAN), the NF (or deployed on an NF) or the RAN (or deployed on an RAN) may send the first information to the first network function, or the NF or RAN may send the first information to the first network function through at least one function or entity.

[0058] For example, the UE sends the first information to the CCF, or the UE sends the first information to the CCF via at least one function or entity.

[0059] For example, the NF or RAN sends the first message to the NRF, or the NF or RAN sends the first message to the NRF via a function or entity. The method by which the NF / RAN sends the message to the NRF can be reused. Figure 2 The registration process shown is initiated through the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegister service.

[0060] In some implementations, a first network function receives first information sent by a first computing node via a second network function. For example, the second network function is a UPF, the UE sends the first information to the UPF, and the UPF sends the first information to the CCF via at least one network function.

[0061] In some implementations, the first computing node sends an uplink message, which includes first information, or the first information is sent with the message. For example, the UE sends an uplink message to the UPF, which includes first information, or the first information is sent with the uplink message. The UPF determines which first information to send to the CCF based on the PDR / FAR. For example, the destination address of the uplink message sent by the UE is a first network function address, and the message includes computing resource information, or the computing resource information is sent with the message.

[0062] For example, the UPF (via at least one network function) sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF. It is understood that, typically, the source address of the uplink packet is the UE's IP address, from which the UPF can obtain the UE's IP address. This application does not limit the method by which the UPF sends information to the CCF. For example, there may be a service interface between the UPF and the CCF, allowing direct service calls; or the UPF may first send the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the SMF, and then the SMF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF.

[0063] In some implementations, the first information is used for the first computing node to register with the first network function.

[0064] In some implementations, the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node (which may be UE identification information), network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information.

[0065] Here, the identification information of the first computing node refers to the identifier of the function or entity of the first computing node itself. Taking the UE as an example, the identification information of the first computing node is the identifier of the UE itself, such as the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) or the Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI). Taking the NF as an example, the identification information of the first computing node is the identifier of the NF itself, such as the NF ID or the NF instance ID.

[0066] Here, the computing node identification information refers to the identification information of the first computing node as an attribute of the computing node. For example, the computing node identification information can be the computing node index or computing node number, such as computing node 01, computing node 02, etc. This computing node identification information can be assigned by the core network (for example, refer to step S603 below).

[0067] In some implementations, computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

[0068] In some implementations, computing resource type information is used to indicate what type of computing resources the computing node possesses; total computing resource information is used to indicate the total computing resources of the computing node; computing capacity information is used to indicate the computing capacity of the computing node; computing resource status information is used to indicate the current status of the computing node; node type information is used to indicate the type of node, which, for example, can be an edge computing node, a network computing node, an edge computing node, or a cloud computing node. When the first computing node is a UE (or deployed on a UE), it is an edge node; when the first computing node is an NF (or deployed on an NF) or RAN (or deployed on a RAN), it is a network node (when the first computing node is a RAN or deployed on a RAN, it can also be called a RAN-side node); node location information is used to indicate the geographical location of the node and / or the topological location of the node.

[0069] In some implementations, the computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: Central Processing Unit (CPU) resource information, Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) resource information, Neural Processing Unit (NPU) resource information, and Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) resource information; and / or, total computing resource information and / or computing power information, including one or more of the following: Floating Point Operations Per Second (FLOPS), Million Instructions Per Second (MIPS), and Hash Calculations Per Second (Hash / s); and / or, computing resource status information includes one or more of the following: occupancy rate, remaining rate, occupancy amount, remaining amount, load, and processing latency; and / or, storage information includes one or more of the following: memory, storage space, Random Access Memory (RAM), and Read-Only Memory (ROM). Memory (ROM); and / or, node type information includes one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, node location information includes one or more of the following: geographic location, topology location; wherein, geographic location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; topology location includes one or more of the following: cell ID, tracking area identity (TAI), registration area (RA) identity, data network access identifier (DNAI), public land mobile network identifier (PLMN ID).

[0070] In some implementations, computing resource status information includes CPU / GPU utilization, and the remaining computing resources can be expressed as an absolute value or a percentage.

[0071] In some implementations, when the first network function is NRF and the first compute node is NF (or deployed on NF), NF can also send NF profile information to NRF. The NF profile information includes one or more of the following: NFinstance ID, NF's Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN), NF's IP address, and the PLMN ID to which NF belongs.

[0072] In some implementations, the first network function receives first information sent by the first computing node or receives first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity, including: the first network function receiving first information sent by the first computing node through a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message; or the first network function receiving the first information sent by the first computing node via a User Plane Function (UPF) through a User Plane message; or the first computing node directly sending the information by invoking a service provided by the first network function; or the first computing node sending the information by first invoking a RAN service and then invoking the first network function service; or the first computing node first sending the information to an AMF or SMF via a NAS message and then sending it via a service invoking the first network function. The specific sending method can be determined according to the actual situation, and this application does not impose specific limitations on it.

[0073] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a first network function storing all or part of the first information.

[0074] In some implementations, after the first network function receives the first information sent by the first computing node, the first network function stores all or part of the received first information. For example, the CCF stores UE identifier / address information and the aforementioned computing resource information. The specific content stored can be determined according to the actual situation, and this application does not impose specific limitations on it.

[0075] In some implementations, the first network function stores the address information and computing resource information of the first computing node. For example, the CCF stores the IP address and computing resource information of the UE.

[0076] In some implementations, when the CCF and NRF are co-located, network-side computing resource information is registered with the NRF, and the NRF stores the computing resource information and other NF profiles. It is understood that the computing resource information of network-side computing nodes can also be part of the NF profile.

[0077] In some implementations, when network-side computing resources are registered with the CCF, after the NRF receives the computing resource information and / or NF profile of the NF, it stores the computing resource information and / or other NF profile, and then sends the computing resource information and / or NF profile of the NF to the CCF.

[0078] In some implementations, NRF can send NF computing resource information and / or NF profile to CCF via service calls. The specific sending method can be determined according to the actual situation, and this application does not impose any specific limitations on it.

[0079] In some implementations, the NF profile sent by the NRF to the CCF includes one or more of the following: the NF category, the NF instance ID, the NF's FQDN or IP address, and the PLMN ID to which the NF belongs.

[0080] In some implementations, when the first network function is CCF, after receiving the computing resource information and / or NF profile sent by NRF, CCF stores the computing resource information and / or NF profile. For example, CCF stores the computing resource information and / or at least one of the following: NF category, NF instance ID, NF FQDN or IP address, and the PLMNID to which the NF belongs.

[0081] In some implementations, the method further includes: a first network function sending a registration result to a first computing node, or sending a registration result to a first computing node via at least one function or entity.

[0082] For example, the CCF returns the registration result to the UE, or the CCF returns the registration result to the UE via at least one function or entity.

[0083] In some implementations, the first network function sends the registration result to the second network function, or the first network function sends the registration result to the second network function via at least one function or entity. After receiving the registration result, the second network function sends the registration result to the first computing node.

[0084] In some implementations, the second network function sends a second message to the first computing node, the second message including registration results or the registration results being sent along with the second message.

[0085] For example, if the second network function is UPF, the first network function is CCF, and the first computing node is UE (or deployed on UE), then CCF returns the registration result to UPF, and UPF sends a downlink message to UE, which includes the registration result.

[0086] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a first network function sending, or sending via at least one function or entity to, a first computing node identifier of the first computing node. The returned computing node identifier indicates successful registration.

[0087] For example, the CCF can assign and send a compute node identifier to the UE, or the CCF can assign and send a compute node identifier to the UE via at least one function or entity.

[0088] For example, the CCF assigns a compute node identifier to the UE and sends the compute node identifier to the UPF (via at least one network or entity). When the UPF sends a downlink message to the UE, the downlink message includes the compute node identifier.

[0089] For example, when registering with the CCF, if the CCF is not co-located with the NRF, the CCF stores the computing resource information and then returns the registration result to the NRF. Optionally, the CCF can allocate computing node identifiers for the NF computing nodes and return them to the NRF. Optionally, the CCF can return the registration result to the NRF via a service call. This application does not specifically limit this.

[0090] For example, when registering with the CCF, if the CCF is not co-located with the NRF, the CCF stores the computing resource information, returns the registration result to the NRF, and the NRF returns the registration result to the NF. When the CCF returns the computing node identifier to the NRF, the registration result returned by the NRF to the NF also includes the computing node identifier. If the NRF is co-located with the CCF, that is, the NRF stores the computing resource information and / or the NF profile, the NRF can also allocate and send computing node identifiers to network-side computing nodes.

[0091] It should be noted that the method by which the first network function sends the registration result to the first computing node can refer to the aforementioned method by which the first computing node sends the first information to the first network function, and this application does not make any specific limitation on this.

[0092] In some implementations, the method further includes: a first network function sending, or sending via at least one function or entity to the first computing node, subscription information to subscribe to computing resource information, or to subscribe to updates to computing resource information.

[0093] In some implementations, a first network function sends, or sends via at least one function or entity to a first computing node, subscription information to subscribe to computing resource information or to subscribe to updates to computing resource information. For example, the CCF subscribes to updates to computing resource information from the UE, or the CCF subscribes to updates to computing resource information from the UE via at least one function or entity. For example, the CCF / NRF subscribes to updates to computing resource information from the NF or RAN, or the CCF / NRF subscribes to updates to computing resource information from the NF or RAN via a function or entity.

[0094] In some implementations, the subscription information includes one or more of the following information of the first computing node: address information, UE identifier, network function (NF) type, NF instance identifier, first indication information, computing node identifier, and computing resource information category; wherein the first indication information indicates subscription to computing resource information or subscription to updates of computing resource information.

[0095] In some implementations, the CCF sends instruction message 1 to the UE, instructing it to subscribe to computing resource information updates.

[0096] In some implementations, the CCF sends at least one category of computing resource information to the UE, such as computing resource status, computing resource location, etc., so that the CCF only subscribes to a portion of the UE's computing resources or only subscribes to updates of a portion of the computing resources.

[0097] In some implementations, the CCF / NRF sends instruction message 1 to the NF / RAN, instructing the subscriber to update computing resource information.

[0098] In some implementations, the CCF / NRF sends at least one category of computing resource information to the NF / RAN, such as computing resource status, computing resource location, etc., so that the CCF / NRF only subscribes to a portion of the NF / RAN's computing resources or only subscribes to updates of a portion of the computing resources.

[0099] In some implementations, when the CCF / NRF is only concerned with the load and node location of end-side / network-side resources, and not with computing power, the CCF / NRF only sends the categories of computing resources of interest to the UE or NF / RAN.

[0100] It should be noted that this application does not specifically limit the method by which the first network function sends subscription information to the first computing node.

[0101] In some implementations, the method further includes the first computing node sending, or sending via at least one function or entity, a computing resource update to the first network function.

[0102] In some implementations, when the edge computing resource information is updated, or when the edge computing resources subscribed to by the first network function are updated, the first computing node sends a computing resource update to the first network function, or sends the update to the first network function via at least one function or entity. For example, when the UE computing resource information is updated, or when the computing resource items of the UE subscribed to by the CCF are updated, the UE sends a computing resource information update to the CCF, or the UE sends a computing resource information update to the CCF via at least one function or entity.

[0103] In some implementations, the UE may also send one or more of the following to the CCF: UE identifier, UE address information, and computing node identifier.

[0104] In some implementations, when a second network function receives an update of computing resource information from a first computing node, the second network function sends the updated computing resource information back to the first network function. For example, when the UPF receives an update of computing resource information and / or a computing node identifier from the UE, it sends the UE's IP address and / or computing node identifier, along with the updated computing resource information, to the CCF based on the PDR / FAR (via at least one network function).

[0105] In some implementations, when there is an update to the network-side computing resource information, or when there is an update to the computing resource items subscribed to by the CCF / NRF, the NF / RAN sends the updated computing resource information to the CCF / NRF, or the NF / RAN sends the updated computing resource information to the CCF / NRF (via at least one function).

[0106] In some implementations, the NF may also send at least one of the following: the NF category, the NF instanceID, the NF's FQDN or IP address, the PLMN ID to which the NF belongs, and the compute node identifier.

[0107] It should be noted that the specific method by which the first computing node sends data to the first network function is determined based on the actual situation, and this application does not impose any specific restrictions on this.

[0108] The technical solution provided in this application embodiment involves a first network function receiving first information sent by a first computing node or receiving first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, user equipment identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information. This enables the first network function to manage the first computing node, facilitating the discovery, selection, and scheduling of computing tasks for the first computing node.

[0109] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 It is used in the second network function, such as Figure 4 As shown, the communication method includes the following steps:

[0110] Step 401: The second network function sends the first information to the first network function or sends the first information to the first network function via at least one network function.

[0111] In some implementations, the second network function is UPF and the first network function is CCF. UPF sends first information to CCF or sends first information to CCF via at least one network function.

[0112] In some implementations, the first computing module sends an uplink message to the second network function, wherein the uplink message includes first information, or the first information is sent along with the uplink message, and the second network function sends the first information to the first network function or sends the first information to the first network function via at least one network function. For example, the UPF (via at least one network function) sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF. It is understood that, typically, the source address of the uplink message is the UE's IP address, and the UPF can obtain the UE's IP address accordingly. This application does not limit the method by which the UPF sends information to the CCF. For example, there may be a service interface between the UPF and the CCF, which can be directly accessed through service calls; or the UPF may first send the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the SMF, and then the SMF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF.

[0113] In some implementations, the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node (which may be UE identification information), network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information.

[0114] Here, the identification information of the first computing node refers to the identifier of the function or entity of the first computing node itself. Taking the UE as an example, the identification information of the first computing node is the identifier of the UE itself, such as the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) or the Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI). Taking the NF as an example, the identification information of the first computing node is the identifier of the NF itself, such as the NF ID or the NF instance ID.

[0115] Here, the computing node identification information refers to the identification information of the first computing node as an attribute of the computing node. For example, the computing node identification information can be the computing node index or computing node number, such as computing node 01, computing node 02, etc. This computing node identification information can be assigned by the core network (for example, refer to step S603 below).

[0116] In some implementations, computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

[0117] In some implementations, computing resource type information is used to indicate what type of computing resources the computing node possesses; total computing resource information is used to indicate the total computing resources of the computing node; computing capacity information is used to indicate the computing capacity of the computing node; computing resource status information is used to indicate the current status of the computing node; node type information is used to indicate the type of node, which, for example, can be an edge computing node, a network computing node, an edge computing node, or a cloud computing node. When the first computing node is a UE (or deployed on a UE), it is an edge node; when the first computing node is an NF (or deployed on an NF) or RAN (or deployed on a RAN), it is a network node (when the first computing node is a RAN or deployed on a RAN, it can also be called a RAN-side node); node location information is used to indicate the geographical location of the node and / or the topological location of the node.

[0118] In some implementations, the computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, FPGA resource information; and / or, total computing resource information and / or computing capacity information, including one or more of the following: FLOPS, MIPS, hash calculations per second (Hash / s); and / or, computing resource status information including one or more of the following: utilization rate, remaining rate, utilization amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, storage information including one or more of the following: memory, storage space, RAM, ROM; and / or, node type information including one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, node location information including one or more of the following: geographical location, topological location; wherein, geographical location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; topological location includes one or more of the following: Cell ID, TAI, RA identifier, DNAI, PLMN ID.

[0119] In some implementations, computing resource status information includes CPU / GPU utilization, and the remaining computing resources can be expressed as an absolute value or a percentage.

[0120] In some implementations, computing resource information is included in the first message, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message.

[0121] In some implementations, the method further includes: a second network function receiving a first message sent by a first computing node, the first message containing computing resource information, or the first message being sent along with computing resource information.

[0122] In some implementations, the first computing node sends a first message to the second network function. The first message includes computing resource information, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message. For example, the UE sends an uplink message to the UPF, which includes the UE's computing resource information, or the computing resource information is sent along with the uplink message. For example, the destination address of the uplink message sent by the UE is the address of the first network function, and the message includes computing resource information, or the computing resource information is sent along with the message.

[0123] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a second network function receiving first rule information sent by a third network function, the first rule information including: sending computing resource information in the first message, or computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

[0124] In some implementations, the third network function is SMF, and UPF receives first rule information sent by SMF. The first rule information includes sending computing resource information in the first message, or computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

[0125] In some implementations, the first rule information may be a Packet Detection Rule (PDR) or a Forwarding Action Rule (FAR), which enables the second network function to send the packet content of the first computing node to the first network function. For example, the SMF sends a PDR / FAR to the UPF so that the UPF sends the packet content of the UE-registered computing node to the CCF.

[0126] In some implementations, the PDR / FAR may include sending a message with a destination address of the CCF address to the CCF. The SMF sends the CCF address to the UE, and the CCF address may or may not be included in the PDR / FAR.

[0127] It should be noted that this application does not restrict the method of sending the first rule information. For example, it can be achieved through the N4 session establishment / modification process.

[0128] In some implementations, the second network function sending first information to the first network function or sending first information to the first network function via at least one network function includes: the second network function sending first information to the first network function based on first rule information or sending first information to the first network function via at least one network function.

[0129] In some implementations, when the first computing node sends a first message to the second network function, the second network function sends first information to the first network function or sends the first information to the first network function via at least one network function, according to first rule information. For example, when the UE sends an uplink message to the UPF, the UPF determines, based on the received PDR or FAR, to send the UE's computing resource information to the CCF.

[0130] In some implementations, the second network function sends the IP address of the first computing node to the first network function. It is understood that when the source address of the first message sent by the first computing node to the second network function is the IP address of the first computing node, the second network function can obtain the IP address of the first computing node from this. For example, the UPF sends the UE's IP address to the CCF.

[0131] It should be noted that this application does not limit the way the second network function sends data to the first network function. For example, there may be a service interface between the UPF and CCF, which can be directly called through the service; or the UPF may first send the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the SMF, and then the SMF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF.

[0132] In some implementations, the first network function stores the IP address and computing resource information of the first computing node. For example, the CCF stores the IP address and computing resource information of the UE.

[0133] In some implementations, the destination address of the first message is a first address, or the first message is sent to a first address.

[0134] In some implementations, the first address is the address of a first network function, or the first address is the address generated by a third network function.

[0135] In some implementations, the third network function is SMF, which generates a first address. The first address can be the IP address of CCF or any address. This application does not make any specific limitation on this.

[0136] In some implementations, the first network function sends the registration result to the second network function, or the first network function sends the registration result to the second network function via at least one function or entity. After receiving the registration result, the second network function sends the registration result to the first computing node.

[0137] In some implementations, the second network function sends a second message to the first computing node, the second message including registration results or the registration results being sent along with the second message.

[0138] For example, if the second network function is UPF, the first network function is CCF, and the first computing node is UE (or deployed on UE), then CCF returns the registration result to UPF, and UPF sends a downlink message to UE, which includes the registration result.

[0139] For example, the CCF can assign a compute node identifier to the UE and send it to the UPF (via at least one network function), and the UPF sends a downlink message to the UE, the downlink message including the compute node identifier.

[0140] In some implementations, when the computing resource information of the first computing node is updated, the first computing node sends the updated computing resource information to the second network function. For example, the UE sends the updated computing resource information, and for example, the UE may send the computing node identifier.

[0141] In some implementations, when the second network function receives an update to the computing resource information of the first computing node, it sends the address information and / or the computing node identifier of the first computing node, along with the updated computing resource information, to the first network function according to first rule information; or it sends the address information and / or the computing node identifier of the first computing node, along with the updated computing resource information, to the first network function via at least one function or entity according to the first rule information. For example, after receiving an update to the computing resource information of the UE, the UPF sends the IP address and / or the computing node identifier of the UE, along with the updated computing resource information, to the CCF according to PDR / FAR; or it sends the IP address and / or the computing node identifier of the UE, along with the updated computing resource information, to the CCF via at least one network function or entity according to PDR / FAR.

[0142] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, a second network function sends first information to a first network function, or sends first information to a first network function via at least one network function. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information. This enables the first network function to manage the first computing node, facilitating the discovery, selection, and scheduling of computing tasks for the first computing node.

[0143] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 Applications to third-party network functions, such as Figure 5 As shown, the communication method includes the following steps:

[0144] Step 501: The third network function sends a first address and / or a second indication information to the first computing node; the second indication information indicates that the first information is sent to the first address.

[0145] In some implementations, the third network function is an SMF, and the first computing node is a UE (or deployed on the UE). For example, the SMF sends a first address and / or second indication information to the UE, wherein the second indication information indicates that first information is sent to the first address. For example, the SMF sends a first IP address to the UE; optionally, the SMF sends indication information 2 to the UE, indicating that computing resource information is sent to the first IP address.

[0146] In some implementations, the method of sending step 501 is not limited. It can be sent to the RAN through the RAN service interface and then sent to the UE through the air interface, or it can be sent according to the other session establishment procedures.

[0147] In some implementations, the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node (which may be UE identification information), network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information.

[0148] Here, the identification information of the first computing node refers to the identifier of the function or entity of the first computing node itself. Taking the UE as an example, the identification information of the first computing node is the identifier of the UE itself, such as the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) or the Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI). Taking the NF as an example, the identification information of the first computing node is the identifier of the NF itself, such as the NF ID or the NF instance ID.

[0149] Here, the computing node identification information refers to the identification information of the first computing node as an attribute of the computing node. For example, the computing node identification information can be the computing node index or computing node number, such as computing node 01, computing node 02, etc. This computing node identification information can be assigned by the core network (for example, refer to step S603 below).

[0150] In some implementations, computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

[0151] In some implementations, computing resource type information is used to indicate what type of computing resources the computing node possesses; total computing resource information is used to indicate the total computing resources of the computing node; computing capacity information is used to indicate the computing capacity of the computing node; computing resource status information is used to indicate the current status of the computing node; node type information is used to indicate the type of node, which, for example, can be an edge computing node, a network computing node, an edge computing node, or a cloud computing node. When the first computing node is a UE (or deployed on a UE), it is an edge node; when the first computing node is an NF (or deployed on an NF) or RAN (or deployed on a RAN), it is a network node (when the first computing node is a RAN or deployed on a RAN, it can also be called a RAN-side node); node location information is used to indicate the geographical location of the node and / or the topological location of the node.

[0152] In some embodiments, the method further includes: computing resource type information including one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, FPGA resource information; and / or, total computing resource information and / or computing capacity information, including one or more of the following: FLOPS, MIPS, hash calculations per second (Hash / s); and / or, computing resource status information including one or more of the following: utilization rate, remaining rate, utilization amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, storage information including one or more of the following: memory, storage space, RAM, ROM; and / or, node type information including one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, node location information including one or more of the following: geographical location, topological location; wherein, geographical location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; topological location includes one or more of the following: CellID, TAI, RA identifier, DNAI, PLMN ID.

[0153] In some implementations, computing resource status information includes CPU / GPU utilization, and the remaining computing resources can be expressed as an absolute value or a percentage.

[0154] In some implementations, computing resource information is included in the first message, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message.

[0155] In some implementations, the first computing node sends a first message to the second network function, the first message including computing resource information, or the computing resource information is reported along with the first message. For example, the UE sends an uplink message to the UPF, the message including the UE's computing resource information, or the computing resource information is sent along with the uplink message.

[0156] In some implementations, the method further includes: a third network function sending first rule information to a second network function, the first rule information including: sending computing resource information in the first message, or computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

[0157] In some implementations, the second network function is UPF and the third network function is SMF. SMF sends first rule information to UPF. The first rule information includes sending computing resource information in the first message or computing resource information sent with the first message to the first network function.

[0158] In some implementations, the first rule information may be a Packet Detection Rule (PDR) or a Forwarding Action Rule (FAR), which enables the second network function to send the packet content of the first computing node to the first network function. For example, the SMF sends a PDR / FAR to the UPF so that the UPF sends the packet content of the UE-registered computing node to the CCF.

[0159] In some implementations, the first rule information may include sending a message with a destination address of a first network function address to a first network function. For example, the PDR / FAR may include sending a message with a destination address of a CCF address to the CCF. The SMF sends the CCF address to the UE; the CCF address may or may not be included in the PDR / FAR.

[0160] It should be noted that this application does not restrict the method of sending the first rule information. For example, it can be achieved through the N4 session establishment / modification process.

[0161] In some implementations, the destination address of the first message is a first address, or the first message is sent to a first address.

[0162] In some implementations, the first address is the address of a first network function, or the first address is the address generated by a third network function.

[0163] In some implementations, before the third network function sends the first address to the first computing node, the method further includes: the third network function generating the first address. For example, the first address is a first IP address, which can be a CCF IP address or any arbitrary fictitious address; this application does not specifically limit this.

[0164] In the technical solution of this application embodiment, a third network function sends a first address and / or second indication information to a first computing node. The second indication information instructs the sending of first information to the first address. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information. This enables the first network function to manage the first computing node, facilitating the discovery, selection, and scheduling of computing tasks for the first computing node.

[0165] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application are illustrated below with specific application examples.

[0166] It should be noted that in the following embodiments, the CCF is used as an independently deployed NF as an example. In actual implementation, there may be multiple situations such as CCF and SMF being set up together, CCF and NRF being set up together, CCF being replaced by SMF, CCF being replaced by NRF, coupling and decoupling of the functions of each NF, changes in NF name, and the compute node being CEF, or CEF deployed on the compute node interacting with other functions or entities.

[0167] Example 1

[0168] This embodiment describes the registration of the edge computing node with the core network via control. Taking the first network function as CCF and the first computing node as UE (or a function or entity deployed on the UE related to computing execution or operation (e.g., CEF)) as an example, ... Figure 6 As shown, it includes the following steps:

[0169] Step 601: The UE sends the following information to the CCF: UE identifier / address information, computation resource information.

[0170] The UE sends UE identification / address information and computing resource information to the CCF, or the UE sends UE identification / address information and computing resource information to the CCF via at least one function.

[0171] The computing resource information may include one or more of the following:

[0172] Computing resource type: What type of computing resources this computing node has, such as CPU, GPU, FPGA, etc.;

[0173] Total computing resources / capacity: The total computing resources of this computing node, or its computing capacity, expressed in units such as FLOPS, MIPS, Hash / s, etc.

[0174] Computing resource status: The current status of this computing node, such as CPU / GPU utilization, remaining computing resources (which can be expressed as absolute values ​​or percentages), load, processing latency, etc.

[0175] Node type: The type of the node, such as a terminal / network / edge / cloud computing node. In this embodiment, the UE is a terminal node.

[0176] Node location: such as geographical location, topological location (cell ID, TAI, DNAI, etc.).

[0177] In this application embodiment, the UE identifier may be SUPI, GPSI, etc., and this application embodiment does not limit the specific content of the UE identifier.

[0178] This application does not limit the way the UE sends the above information to the CCF. For example: a) it can be sent via NAS message; b) it can be sent directly by calling the service provided by the CCF; c) it can be sent by first calling the RAN service and then calling the CCF service; d) it can be sent to the AMF or SMF via NAS message and then sent via the CCF service call, etc.

[0179] For example, step 601 can be: the UE sends a NAS Message to the CCF, wherein the NAS Message includes UEID / address information and computing resource information (including one or more of the following): computing resource type, total computing resource amount, computing resource status, node type, and node location.

[0180] Step 602: CCF stores computing resource information.

[0181] The CCF stores UE identifier / address information and / or the aforementioned computing resource information.

[0182] Step 603: CCF sends the registration result to UE.

[0183] The CCF returns the registration result to the UE, or the CCF returns the registration result to the UE via at least one function. Optionally, the CCF may assign and send a compute node identifier to the UE. This application embodiment does not limit the method of sending information in this step; for example, the method of sending information in step 601 can be referred to. For instance, the CCF returns the registration result via a NAS message, and the registration result may include the compute node ID.

[0184] For example, step 603 can be: the CCF sends a NAS Message to the UE, wherein the NAS Message includes the registration result, and optionally, may also include the compute node ID.

[0185] Step 604: The CCF subscribes to the UE for computing resource information updates. Optionally, the UE sends a response message to the CCF.

[0186] The CCF subscribes to computing resource information updates from the UE, or the CCF subscribes to computing resource information updates from the UE via at least one function.

[0187] Optionally, the CCF can send indication information 1 to the UE, indicating that it should subscribe to computing resource information updates.

[0188] Optionally, the CCF can send at least one category of computing resource information to the UE, such as "computing resource status" or "computing resource location". In this way, it can subscribe only to updates of certain computing resource information items. For example, the CCF may only be concerned with the load and node location of the edge resources, without being concerned with the computing capacity.

[0189] This application embodiment does not limit the way the information is sent in this step; for example, the sending method in step 603 can be referred to.

[0190] Optionally, after receiving the subscription information, the UE can return response information / confirmation information to the CCF. This application embodiment does not limit the method of sending the response information / confirmation information; for example, the sending method in step 601 can be referred to.

[0191] For example, step 604 can be: the CCF sends a NAS Message to the UE, wherein the NAS Message includes indication information 1: indicating subscription to computing resource information updates, optionally including at least one computing resource information category.

[0192] Step 605: The UE sends the UE ID / address information / computing node ID and computing resource information update to the CCF.

[0193] When there is an update to the edge computing resource information, or an update to the edge computing resource item subscribed to by the CCF, the UE sends an update to the computing resource information to the CCF, or the UE sends an update to the computing resource information to the CCF via at least one function.

[0194] The UE may also send one or more of the following: UE identifier, UE address information, and computing node identifier.

[0195] This application embodiment does not limit the way the information is sent in this step; for example, the sending method in step 601 can be referred to.

[0196] For example, step 605 can be: the UE sends a NAS Message to the CCF, wherein the NAS Message includes UEID / address information / compute node ID and updated computing resource information.

[0197] Steps 601 to 603 are for completing registration, while steps 604 to 605 are optional subscription and update steps.

[0198] Example 2

[0199] This embodiment illustrates how an edge computing node registers with the core network via the user. Taking the first network function as CCF, the second network function as UPF, the third network function as SMF, and the first computing node as the UE (or a function or entity deployed on the UE related to computation execution or operation (e.g., CEF)) as an example,... Figure 7 As shown, it includes the following steps:

[0200] Step 701: SMF generates the first IP address.

[0201] The first IP address can be the IP address of CCF or any fictitious address; this application embodiment does not impose any specific limitations.

[0202] Step 702: SMF sends rules to UPF; optionally, UPF sends response information to SMF.

[0203] As a possible specific implementation, the rule can be either a PDR or a FAR. Specifically, the SMF sends a PDR to the UPF, causing the UPF to send the message content of the UE's registered compute node to the CCF. As an example, the PDR may include sending a message with a destination address of the CCF to the CCF. The SMF sends the CCF address to the UE; the CCF address may or may not be included in the PDR. Alternatively, the SMF sends a FAR to the UPF, the specific process of which is similar to the SMF sending a PDR to the UPF, and will not be described in detail here.

[0204] Optionally, after receiving the rules sent by the SMF, the UPF can return response information / acknowledgment information to the SMF.

[0205] This application does not limit the method of sending information in this step. For example, it can be implemented through the N4 session establishment / modification process.

[0206] For example, step 702 can be: SMF sends N4 Session Establishment / Modification (CCF address, PDR: dst = first IP address, report CCF) to UPF.

[0207] Step 703: SMF sends the first IP address to UE.

[0208] The SMF sends the first IP address to the UE, or the SMF sends the first IP address to the UE via at least one function.

[0209] Optionally, the SMF can send indication information 2 to the UE, instructing it to send computing resource information to the first IP address, i.e., register computing resource information.

[0210] This application does not limit the way the information is sent in this step. For example, it can be sent to the RAN through the RAN service interface and then sent to the UE through the air interface. Alternatively, the information can be sent using other session establishment procedures.

[0211] For example, step 703 can be: the SMF sends an N2 NAS Message to the UE, wherein the NAS Message includes a first IP address, and optionally, it can also include indication information 2: register computing resource information with the first IP address.

[0212] Step 704: The UE sends an uplink message to the UPF.

[0213] The UE sends an uplink message to the UPF, wherein the destination IP of the uplink message is the first IP address, and the message includes computing resource information, or the computing resource information is sent with the message. The computing resource information is described in the relevant description in Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here.

[0214] For example, step 704 can be: the UE sends a UL message to the UPF, wherein the src IP of the UL message is the UE IP, the dst IP is the first IP address, and the computing resource information (including at least one of the following): computing resource type, total computing resource amount, computing resource status, node type, and node location.

[0215] Step 705: UPF performs message inspection and determines the CCF report.

[0216] When the message described in step 704 is sent to the UPF, the UPF determines to send the UE's computing resource information to the CCF based on the PDR received in step 702. Alternatively, the UPF determines to send the UE's computing resource information to the CCF based on the FAR received in step 702.

[0217] Step 706: The UPF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF.

[0218] The UPF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF, or the UPF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to the CCF via at least one network function.

[0219] Under normal circumstances, the source address of the step 704 message is the UE's IP address, and the UPF can obtain the UE's IP address based on this.

[0220] The embodiments of this application do not limit the way the information is sent in this step. For example, there may be a service interface between UPF and CCF, and the information can be directly called through the service; or UPF may first send the UE's IP address and computing resource information to SMF, and then SMF sends the UE's IP address and computing resource information to CCF.

[0221] For example, step 706 can be: the UPF sends a report to the CCF, wherein the report includes the UE IP and computing resource information.

[0222] Step 707: CCF stores computing resource information.

[0223] Optionally, the CCF stores the UE's IP address information and / or computing resource information.

[0224] Step 708: CCF sends the registration result to UPF.

[0225] The CCF returns the registration result to the UPF, or the CCF returns the registration result to the UPF via at least one network function.

[0226] Optionally, the CCF can assign and send a compute node identifier to the UPF (via at least one network function) for the UE.

[0227] This application embodiment does not limit the way the information is sent in this step; for example, the sending method in step 706 can be referred to.

[0228] For example, step 708 can be: CCF sends a Response to UPF, wherein the Response includes the registration result and, optionally, the compute node ID.

[0229] Step 709: The UPF sends the registration result to the UE.

[0230] UPF sends downlink messages to UE, where the source IP of the downlink message is the first IP address, and the downlink message includes the registration result.

[0231] If the CCF can assign a compute node identifier to the UE, the compute node identifier is sent in this step.

[0232] For example, step 709 can be: the UPF sends a DL message to the UE, wherein the src IP of the DL message is the first IP address, the dst IP is the UE IP, and the DL message may include ack and / or compute node ID.

[0233] Step 710: The UE sends an update of computing resource information to the UPF.

[0234] Optionally, the UE sends an uplink message to the UPF, wherein the uplink message includes an update of computing resource information.

[0235] When there are updates to the computing resource information on the device side, the UE sends an update of the computing resource information.

[0236] Optionally, the UE may also send a computing node identifier.

[0237] This application embodiment does not limit the way the information is sent in this step; for example, the sending method in step 704 can be referred to.

[0238] For example, step 710 can be: the UE sends a UL message to the UPF, wherein the src IP of the UL message is the UE IP and the dst IP is the first IP address. Optionally, the UL message may also include the compute node ID and / or compute resource information update.

[0239] Understandably, prior to this, the CCF / UPF subscribed to the UE for updates on computing resource information. The specific subscription method can be found in the previous description of the subscription method, and will not be repeated here.

[0240] Step 711: The UPF sends the UE IP / compute node ID and updated computing resource information to the CCF.

[0241] When the UPF receives the update from step 710, it sends the UE's IP address and / or compute node identifier, along with updated computing resource information, to the CCF according to the PDR or FAR (via at least one network function) described in step 702. This application embodiment does not limit the method of sending this information; for example, the method of sending information in step 706 can be referred to.

[0242] For example, step 711 can be: the UPF sends a report to the CCF, wherein the report includes the UE IP / compute node ID and updated computing resource information.

[0243] Steps 701 to 709 are for completing the registration, while steps 710 to 711 are optional update steps.

[0244] Example 3

[0245] This embodiment describes the registration of a network-side computing node with the core network via control. It should be noted that the network-side computing node can be a core network NF or a RAN, and the first network function can be NRF or CCF. This embodiment uses NRF as the first network function and NF / RAN as the network-side computing node as an example. Figure 8 As shown, it includes the following steps:

[0246] Step 801: NF / RAN sends computing resource information to NRF.

[0247] The NF or RAN sends computing resource information to the NRF, or the NF or RAN sends computing resource information to the NRF via at least one function.

[0248] The computing resource information is described in the relevant description in Embodiment 1, and will not be repeated here. The difference from Embodiment 1 is that if the computing resource information includes node type, then for this embodiment, the node type is a network-side node (or defined as a RAN-side node).

[0249] This application does not limit the way the UE sends the above information to the CCF; for example, it can reuse [the information]. Figure 2 The NF registration process is sent through the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegister service.

[0250] Understandably, if the NF registration process is reused, NF profile information can also be sent in this step, such as the NF category, NF instance ID, NF FQDN or IP address, and the PLMN ID to which the NF belongs.

[0251] For example, step 801 can be: the NF sends an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegisterRequest to the NRF, which includes the NF type, instance ID, IP address, and computing resource information (including one or more of the following): computing resource type, total computing resources, computing resource status, node type, and node location.

[0252] It should be noted that steps 802 and 803 to 805 correspond to the cases where network-side computing resource information is registered with the NRF and CCF, respectively. It can be understood that if the CCF and NRF are co-located or exist within the same NF, then step 802 is executed.

[0253] Step 802: NRF stores computing resource information.

[0254] NRF stores computing resource information and / or other NF profiles.

[0255] It is understandable that the computing resource information of network-side computing nodes can also be included as part of the NF profile.

[0256] Step 803: NRF sends the computational resource information of NF to CCF.

[0257] Optionally, the NRF may send at least one of the following to the CCF: the NF's class, the NF instance ID, the NF's FQDN or IP address, and the PLMN ID to which the NF belongs.

[0258] The embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation method of this step; for example, it can be implemented through a service call.

[0259] For example, step 803 can be: the NRF sends a Register Request to the CCF, which includes the NF type, Instance ID, IP address, and computing resource information.

[0260] Step 804: CCF stores computing resource information.

[0261] CCF storage computing resource information and / or one or more of the following: NF category, NF instance ID, NF FQDN or IP address, NF PLMN ID.

[0262] Step 805: CCF sends the registration result to NRF.

[0263] Optionally, the CCF can assign and return the compute node identifier to the NRF.

[0264] The embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation method of this step; for example, it can be implemented through a service call.

[0265] For example, step 805 can be: CCF sends a Register Response to NRF, which includes the registration result and, optionally, the compute node ID.

[0266] Step 806: NRF sends the registration result to NF / NRF.

[0267] If the NRF receives the compute node identifier in step 805, it sends the compute node identifier in step 806; if step 802 is performed, the NRF can also assign a compute node identifier to the network-side compute node and send it to the compute node.

[0268] The embodiments of this application do not limit the implementation of this step, for example, refer to step 801.

[0269] For example, step 806 can be: NRF sends Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegisterResponse to NF, which includes the registration result, and optionally may include the compute node ID.

[0270] Step 807: CCF / NRF subscribes to computing resource information updates from NF / RAN. Optionally, NF / RAN sends response information to CCF / NRF.

[0271] The CCF / NRF subscribes to computing resource information updates from the NF / RAN, or the CCF / NRF subscribes to computing resource information updates from the NF / RAN via at least one function.

[0272] Optionally, instruction message 1 can be sent to instruct subscription to computing resource information updates.

[0273] Optionally, at least one category of computing resource information may be sent, as in step 604 of embodiment 1.

[0274] Optionally, after receiving the subscription information, the NF / RAN can return response information / acknowledgment information to the CCF / NRF.

[0275] The embodiments of this application do not limit the way the information is sent in this step. For example, the sending method of step 805 or step 805-step 806 can be referred to.

[0276] For example, step 807 can be: CCF / NRF sends a Subscription Request to NF or NF sends a Subscription Response to CCF / NRF, wherein the response includes indication information 1: indicating subscription to computing resource information updates, which may optionally include a computing node ID, and optionally may include at least one computing resource information category.

[0277] Step 808: NF / RAN sends an update of computing resource information to NRF / CCF.

[0278] When there are updates to the network-side computing resource information, or updates to the computing resource items subscribed to by the CCF / NRF, the NF / RAN (via at least one function) sends the updated computing resource information to the CCF / NRF.

[0279] An NF may also send at least one of the following: the NF category, the NF instance ID, the NF's FQDN or IP address, the PLMN ID to which the NF belongs, and the compute node identifier.

[0280] This application embodiment does not limit the way the information is sent in this step. For example, the sending method of step 801 or step 803 can be referred to.

[0281] For example, step 808 can be: the NF sends a Notify to the CCF / NRF, which includes the NF type, InstanceID, IP address, compute node ID, and compute resource information update.

[0282] Steps 801 to 806 are for completing registration, while steps 807 to 808 are optional steps for subscription and update.

[0283] This application provides a method for computing nodes to register computing resource information with the CCF. This method enables the core network to manage computing nodes, facilitates the discovery and selection of computing nodes, and schedules computing tasks, laying the foundation for the design of the computing plane.

[0284] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 Applied to the first network function, such as Figure 9 As shown, the communication device includes:

[0285] The first communication unit 901 is used to receive first information sent by the first computing node or to receive first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information.

[0286] In some implementations, computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

[0287] In some implementations, the computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, and FPGA resource information; and / or, total computing resource information and / or computing capacity information, including one or more of the following: floating-point operations per second (FLOPS), average execution speed of single-word fixed-point instructions (MIPS), and hash calculations per second; and / or, computing resource status information includes one or more of the following: utilization rate, remaining rate, utilization amount, remaining amount, load, and processing latency; and / or, storage information includes one or more of the following: memory, storage space, random access memory (RAM), and read-only memory (ROM); and / or, node type information includes one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, and cloud node; and / or, node location information includes one or more of the following: geographical location and topological location; wherein, geographical location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, and administrative region; and topological location includes one or more of the following: cell. ID, Tracking Area Identifier (TAI), Registration Area Identifier (RA), Data Network Access Identifier (DNAI), Public Land Mobile Network Identifier (PLMN ID).

[0288] In some implementations, the first communication unit 901 is configured to send, or send via at least one function or entity to the first computing node, subscription information to subscribe to computing resource information or to subscribe to updates to computing resource information.

[0289] In some implementations, the subscription information includes one or more of the following information of the first computing node: address information, UE identifier, network function (NF) type, NF instance identifier, first indication information, computing node identifier, and computing resource information category; wherein the first indication information indicates subscription to computing resource information or subscription to updates of computing resource information.

[0290] In some implementations, the first communication unit 901 is configured to send, or send via at least one function or entity, the computing node identifier of the first computing node to the first computing node.

[0291] In some implementations, the first communication unit 901 is configured to receive first information sent by the first computing node via a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message; or to receive first information sent by the first computing node via a User Plane Function (UPF) message.

[0292] In some embodiments, the device further includes: a first storage unit 902; the first storage unit 902 is used to store all or part of the first information.

[0293] In some implementations, the first computing node includes one or more of the following: UE, RAN, NF; and / or, the first network function includes one or more of the following: Computation Control Function (CCF), Session Management Function (SMF), Network Storage Function (NRF).

[0294] Those skilled in the art should understand that Figure 9 The functions of each unit in the communication device shown can be understood by referring to the relevant description of the aforementioned method. Figure 9 The functions of each unit in the communication device shown can be implemented by a program running on a processor or by specific logic circuits.

[0295] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 It is used in the second network function, such as Figure 10 As shown, the communication device includes:

[0296] The second communication unit 1001 is used to send first information to the first network function or to send first information to the first network function via at least one network function. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information.

[0297] In some implementations, computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

[0298] In some implementations, the computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, FPGA resource information; and / or, total computing resource information and / or computing capacity information, including one or more of the following: FLOPS, MIPS, hash calculations per second; and / or, computing resource status information including one or more of the following: utilization rate, remaining rate, utilization amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, storage information including one or more of the following: memory, storage space, RAM, ROM; and / or, node type information including one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, node location information including one or more of the following: geographical location, topological location; wherein, geographical location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; topological location includes one or more of the following: Cell ID, TAI, RA identifier, DNAI, PLMNID.

[0299] In some implementations, computing resource information is included in the first message, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message.

[0300] In some implementations, the second communication unit 1001 is used to receive first rule information sent by the third network function. The first rule information includes sending computing resource information in the first message, or computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

[0301] In some implementations, the second communication unit 1001 is used to receive a first message sent by the first computing node, the first message containing computing resource information, or the first message being sent along with computing resource information.

[0302] In some implementations, the second communication unit 1001 is used to send first information to the first network function based on first rule information or to send first information to the first network function via at least one network function.

[0303] In some implementations, the destination address of the first message is a first address, or the first message is sent to a first address.

[0304] In some implementations, the first address is the address of a first network function, or the first address is the address generated by a third network function.

[0305] Those skilled in the art should understand that Figure 10 The functions of each unit in the communication device shown can be understood by referring to the relevant description of the aforementioned method. Figure 10 The functions of each unit in the communication device shown can be implemented by a program running on a processor or by specific logic circuits.

[0306] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 Applications to third-party network functions, such as Figure 11 As shown, the communication device includes:

[0307] The third communication unit 1101 is used to send a first address and / or second indication information to the first computing node; the second indication information indicates that first information is sent to the first address, and the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, network function instance identification information of the first computing node, and computing node identification information.

[0308] In some implementations, computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

[0309] In some implementations, computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, FPGA resource information; and / or, total computing resource information and / or computing capacity information, including one or more of the following: FLOPS, MIPS, hash calculations per second; and / or, computing resource status information including one or more of the following: utilization rate, remaining rate, utilization amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, storage information including one or more of the following: memory, storage space, RAM, ROM; and / or, node type information including one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, node location information including one or more of the following: geographic location, topology location; wherein, geographic location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; topology location includes one or more of the following: Cell ID, TAI, RA identifier, DNAI, PLMNID.

[0310] In some implementations, computing resource information is included in the first message, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message.

[0311] In some implementations, the third communication unit 1101 is used to send first rule information to the second network function. The first rule information includes sending computing resource information in the first message, or computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

[0312] In some implementations, the destination address of the first message is a first address, or the first message is sent to a first address.

[0313] In some implementations, the first address is the address of a first network function, or the first address is the address generated by a third network function.

[0314] Those skilled in the art should understand that Figure 11 The functions of each unit in the communication device shown can be understood by referring to the relevant description of the aforementioned method. Figure 11 The functions of each unit in the communication device shown can be implemented by a program running on a processor or by specific logic circuits.

[0315] Figure 12 This is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device 1200 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device may have a first network function, a second network function, or a third network function. Figure 12 The communication device 1200 shown includes a processor 1210, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0316] Optionally, such as Figure 12 As shown, the communication device 1200 may further include a memory 1220. The processor 1210 can retrieve and run computer programs from the memory 1220 to implement the methods described in this embodiment.

[0317] The memory 1220 can be a separate device independent of the processor 1210, or it can be integrated into the processor 1210.

[0318] Optionally, such as Figure 12 As shown, the communication device 1200 may also include a transceiver 1230. The processor 1210 can control the transceiver 1230 to communicate with other devices. Specifically, it can send information or data to other devices or receive information or data sent by other devices.

[0319] The transceiver 1230 may include a transmitter and a receiver. The transceiver 1230 may further include an antenna, and the number of antennas may be one or more.

[0320] Optionally, the communication device 1200 may specifically be the first network function of the present application embodiment, and the communication device 1200 may implement the corresponding processes implemented by the first network function in the various methods of the present application embodiment. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0321] Optionally, the communication device 1200 may specifically be a second network function in the embodiments of this application, and the communication device 1200 may implement the corresponding processes implemented by the second network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0322] Optionally, the communication device 1200 may specifically be a third network function in the embodiments of this application, and the communication device 1200 may implement the corresponding processes implemented by the third network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0323] Figure 13 This is a schematic structural diagram of the chip according to an embodiment of this application. Figure 13 The chip 1300 shown includes a processor 1310, which can call and run computer programs from memory to implement the methods in the embodiments of this application.

[0324] Optionally, such as Figure 13 As shown, chip 1300 may further include memory 1320. Processor 1310 can retrieve and run computer programs from memory 1320 to implement the methods described in this embodiment.

[0325] The memory 1320 can be a separate device independent of the processor 1310, or it can be integrated into the processor 1310.

[0326] Optionally, the chip 1300 may also include an input interface 1330. The processor 1310 can control the input interface 1330 to communicate with other devices or chips; specifically, it can acquire information or data sent by other devices or chips.

[0327] Optionally, the chip 1300 may also include an output interface 1340. The processor 1310 can control the output interface 1340 to communicate with other devices or chips, specifically, to output information or data to other devices or chips.

[0328] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the first network function in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the first network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0329] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the second network function in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the second network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0330] Optionally, the chip can be applied to the third network function in the embodiments of this application, and the chip can implement the corresponding processes implemented by the third network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0331] It should be understood that the chip mentioned in the embodiments of this application may also be referred to as a system-on-a-chip, system chip, chip system, or system-on-a-chip, etc.

[0332] It should be understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, the steps of the above method embodiments can be completed by integrated logic circuits in the processor's hardware or by instructions in software form. The processor described above can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules can be located in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in memory, and the processor reads information from the memory and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0333] It is understood that the memory in the embodiments of this application can be volatile memory or non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memory. The non-volatile memory can be read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), or flash memory. The volatile memory can be random access memory (RAM), which is used as an external cache. By way of example, but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), Double Data Rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), Enhanced Synchronous DRAM (ESDRAM), Synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and Direct Rambus RAM (DR RAM). It should be noted that the memory used in the systems and methods described herein is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0334] It should be understood that the above-described memory is exemplary and not a limiting description. For example, the memory in the embodiments of this application may also be static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchronous link dynamic random access memory (SLDRAM), and direct memory bus RAM (DR RAM), etc. That is to say, the memory in the embodiments of this application is intended to include, but is not limited to, these and any other suitable types of memory.

[0335] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program.

[0336] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the first network function in the embodiments of this application, and when the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the corresponding processes implemented by the first network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0337] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the second network function in the embodiments of this application, and when the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the corresponding processes implemented by the second network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0338] Optionally, the computer program product can be applied to the third network function in the embodiments of this application, and when the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the corresponding processes implemented by the third network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0339] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium for storing computer programs.

[0340] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the first network function in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the first network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0341] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the second network function in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the second network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0342] Optionally, the computer-readable storage medium can be applied to the third network function in the embodiments of this application, and the computer program causes the computer to execute the corresponding processes implemented by the third network function in the various methods of the embodiments of this application. For the sake of brevity, it will not be described in detail here.

[0343] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0344] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0345] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0346] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0347] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0348] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0349] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a first network function, the method includes: The first network function receives first information sent by the first computing node or receives first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity, wherein the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: central processing unit (CPU) resource information, graphics processing unit (GPU) resource information, neural network processor (NPU) resource information, and field-programmable gate array (FPGA) resource information; and / or, The total computing resources information and / or the computing capacity information include one or more of the following: floating-point operations per second (FLOPS), average execution speed of fixed-point instructions per word (MIPS), and hash calculations per second; and / or, The computing resource status information includes one or more of the following: occupancy rate, remaining rate, occupancy amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, The stored information includes one or more of the following: memory, storage space, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM); and / or, The node type information includes one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, The node location information includes one or more of the following: geographic location, topological location; wherein, the geographic location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; the topological location includes one or more of the following: cell identifier, tracking area identifier (TAI), registration area identifier (RA), data network access identifier (DNAI), public land mobile network identifier (PLMN ID).

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first network function sends, or sends via at least one function or entity to the first computing node, subscription information to subscribe to the computing resource information or to subscribe to updates of the computing resource information.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The subscription information includes one or more of the following information of the first computing node: address information, user equipment (UE) identifier, network function (NF) type, NF instance identifier, first indication information, computing node identifier, and the category of computing resource information; wherein, the first indication information indicates subscription to the computing resource information or subscription to updates of the computing resource information.

6. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first network function sends, or sends to, the first computing node identifier of the first computing node via at least one function or entity.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first network function receives first information sent by the first computing node or receives first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity, including: The first network function receives the first information sent by the first computing node through a non-access stratum (NAS) message; Alternatively, the first network function may receive the first information sent by the first computing node via the User Plane Function (UPF) through a user plane message.

8. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first network function stores all or part of the first information.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first computing node includes one or more of the following: UE, RAN, NF; and / or, The first network function includes one or more of the following: Computational Control Function (CCF), Session Management Function (SMF), and Network Storage Function (NRF).

10. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a second network function, the method includes: The second network function sends first information to the first network function or sends first information to the first network function via at least one network function, wherein the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: The computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, FPGA resource information; and / or, The total computing resources information and / or the computing capacity information include one or more of the following: FLOPS, MIPS, hash calculations per second; and / or, The computing resource status information includes one or more of the following: occupancy rate, remaining rate, occupancy amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, The stored information includes one or more of the following: memory, storage space, RAM, ROM; and / or, The node type information includes one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, The node location information includes one or more of the following: geographic location, topological location; wherein, the geographic location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; the topological location includes one or more of the following: cell identifier, TAI, RA identifier, DNAI, PLMN ID.

13. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The computing resource information is included in the first message, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second network function receives first rule information sent by the third network function. The first rule information includes sending computing resource information in the first message, or computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second network function receives a first message sent by the first computing node, the first message containing computing resource information, or the first message being sent along with the computing resource information.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The second network function sends first information to the first network function or sends first information to the first network function via at least one network function, including: The second network function sends the first information to the first network function based on the first rule information, or sends the first information to the first network function via at least one network function.

17. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The destination address of the first message is the first address, or the first message is sent to the first address.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The first address is the address of the first network function, or the first address is the address generated by the third network function.

19. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to a third network function, the method includes: The third network function sends a first address and / or second indication information to the first computing node; the second indication information indicates that first information is sent to the first address, and the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The computing resource information includes one or more of the following: computing resource type information, total computing resource amount information, computing capacity information, computing resource status information, storage information, node type information, and node location information.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The method further includes: The computing resource type information includes one or more of the following: CPU resource information, GPU resource information, NPU resource information, FPGA resource information; and / or, The total computing resources information and / or the computing capacity information include one or more of the following: FLOPS, MIPS, hash calculations per second; and / or, The computing resource status information includes one or more of the following: occupancy rate, remaining rate, occupancy amount, remaining amount, load, processing latency; and / or, The stored information includes one or more of the following: memory, storage space, RAM, ROM; and / or, The node type information includes one or more of the following: terminal node, access network node, network node, network function node, edge node, cloud node; and / or, The node location information includes one or more of the following: geographic location, topological location; wherein, the geographic location includes one or more of the following: latitude and longitude, satellite positioning, administrative region; the topological location includes one or more of the following: cell identifier, TAI, RA identifier, DNAI, PLMN ID.

22. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The computing resource information is included in the first message, or the computing resource information is sent along with the first message.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The method further includes: The third network function sends first rule information to the second network function. The first rule information includes sending the computing resource information in the first message, or the computing resource information sent with the first message, to the first network function.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that, The destination address of the first message is the first address, or the first message is sent to the first address.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The first address is the address of the first network function, or the first address is the address generated by the third network function.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, The device, applied to a first network function, includes: The first communication unit is configured to receive first information sent by the first computing node or to receive first information sent by the first computing node via at least one function or entity, wherein the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

27. A communication device, characterized in that, For use in a second network function, the device includes: The second communication unit is configured to send first information to the first network function or send first information to the first network function via at least one network function. The first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

28. A communication device, characterized in that, The device, applied to a third network function, includes: The third communication unit is used to send a first address and / or second indication information to the first computing node; the second indication information indicates that first information is sent to the first address, and the first information includes one or more of the following: computing resource information of the first computing node, address information of the first computing node, identification information of the first computing node, network function type information of the first computing node, and network function instance identification information of the first computing node.

29. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A processor and a memory for storing a computer program, the processor for calling and running the computer program stored in the memory to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 25.

30. A computer program product, characterized in that, include: A computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the method according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

31. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Used to store a computer program that causes a computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 25.

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