A communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The application provides a communication method and device, wherein the method comprises: sending a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network; if the last running first timer expires or stops before the registration is completed, performing at least one of the following: releasing the connection with the first network; sending first information to the first network device, the first information being used to terminate the registration. Through the method, when the last running first timer expires or stops before the registration in the first network is completed, the terminal device does not perform a deregistration process, but releases the connection with the first network, thereby ending the registration process, without waiting for the registration related signaling from the network side, and greatly improving the registration efficiency. Alternatively, the terminal device can also indicate to the first network device to terminate the registration in the first network through the first information, so that the network side ends the registration process without waiting for the registration related signaling from the terminal side, improves the registration efficiency, and improves the system efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In roaming scenarios of mobile communication networks, when a terminal device enters a roaming area where no network is listed, it can first connect to the roaming network with the strongest signal. After connecting, the terminal device's home public land mobile network (HPLMN) can send a steering of roaming (SOR) message and a steering of roaming connected mode control information (SOR-CMCI) to the terminal device, allowing it to select a roaming network based on the HPLMN's configured roaming network list. Upon receiving the SOR-CMCI, the terminal device can start at least one Tsor-cm timer. The SOR-CMCI can indicate at least one service and / or at least one protocol data unit (PDU) data network name (DNN) or slice. For example, if the terminal device is performing a voice service and determines that the SOR-CMCI indicates a voice service, it will start the corresponding Tsor-cm timer. For example, if the DNN of the PDU session currently established by the terminal device is the same as the DNN of a PDU session indicated by SOR-CMCI, then the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the PDU session is started.

[0003] Before a terminal device completes registration in the roaming network, if all Tsor-cm timers started by SOR-CMCI timeout or stop, the terminal device will interrupt the registration process and trigger a normal de-registration process, then trigger access to the preferred roaming network. However, because the terminal device's initial registration process is incomplete, it initiates the normal de-registration process again. This means the network side is still waiting for the terminal device's registration completion message, causing the registration process to fail. Simultaneously, the network side will not respond to the terminal device's de-registration process, causing it to fail as well. This results in the terminal device being unable to exit the registration process in a timely manner, and also unable to complete the de-registration process. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application provides a communication method and apparatus to improve system efficiency.

[0005] Firstly, this application provides a communication method, wherein the execution subject of the method is a terminal device or a module or chip within the terminal device; the method is described here using a terminal device as the execution subject as an example. The method includes: sending a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, the first registration request message being used to trigger the terminal device's registration in the first network; if, before the registration is completed, the last running first timer times out or stops, then performing at least one of the following: releasing the connection with the first network; sending first information to the first network device, the first information being used to terminate the registration; wherein the first timer is used for roaming guidance of the terminal device.

[0006] Using the above method, before the terminal device completes registration with the first network, if the last running timer times out or stops, the terminal device does not execute the deregistration process but instead releases its connection with the first network, thus ending the registration process. This eliminates the need to wait for registration-related signaling from the network side, significantly improving registration efficiency. Alternatively, the terminal device can also instruct the first network device to terminate registration in the first network via a first message, causing the network side to end the registration process without waiting for registration-related signaling from the terminal side, further improving registration efficiency and system efficiency.

[0007] In one possible implementation, the first timer is a Tsor-cm timer.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: starting the first timer according to the roaming guidance connection mode control information SOR-CMCI.

[0009] In one possible implementation, starting the first timer based on the roaming guidance connection mode control information SOR-CMCI includes:

[0010] If the first service currently being performed by the terminal device in the first network is one of at least one of the services indicated by the SOR-CMCI, then the first timer is started;

[0011] Alternatively, if the data network name (DNN) or slice of the first session established by the terminal device in the first network is one of at least one DNN or slice indicated by the SOR-CMCI, then the first timer is started.

[0012] Alternatively, if the roaming guidance SOR security check fails in the first network, the first timer is started.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: sending a second registration request message to a second network device in a second network, the second registration request message being used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the second network, the second network being the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

[0014] By using the above method, the terminal device registers in the first network and then in the second network, thereby enabling roaming to the priority roaming network indicated by the home public land mobile network (i.e., the second network), avoiding prolonged stays in the non-priority roaming network (i.e., the first network), and improving system efficiency.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the second network is a priority roaming network in a network list, the network list being derived from the terminal device's home public land mobile network.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the registration type in the second registration request message is either initial registration or mobility registration.

[0018] In one possible implementation, releasing the connection with the first network includes: sending a release message to the first network device, the release message being used to release the connection with the first network; and / or, executing a local release procedure corresponding to the first network.

[0019] By actively sending a release message to the first network device using the above method, the network side can accurately determine that the terminal device has released its connection with the first network, thereby enabling the network side to release the resources allocated to the terminal device and improving resource utilization.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: performing a local deregistration process corresponding to the first network.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the first information includes a deregistration request message, which is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network, and the deregistration type in the deregistration request message is power off or emergency deregistration.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: receiving a deregistration acceptance message from the first network device; the deregistration acceptance message is used to indicate acceptance of the terminal device's deregistration in the first network.

[0023] Secondly, this application provides a communication method, wherein the execution subject of the method is a network device or a module or chip within a network device; the method is described here using a network device as an example. The method includes: receiving a first registration request message from a terminal device, the first registration request message being used to trigger registration of the terminal device in a first network; and terminating registration if first information is received from the terminal device before the registration is completed, and the first information is used to terminate the registration.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the first information includes a deregistration request message, which is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network, and the deregistration type in the deregistration request message is power off or emergency deregistration.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: sending a deregistration acceptance message to the terminal device; the deregistration acceptance message is used to indicate acceptance of the terminal device's deregistration in the first network.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

[0027] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method, wherein the execution subject of the method is a terminal device or a module or chip within the terminal device; the method is described here using a terminal device as the execution subject as an example. The method includes: sending a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, the first registration request message being used to trigger the terminal device to register in the first network; if, before the registration is completed, the last running first timer times out or stops, then after the registration is completed, sending a deregistration request message to the first network device, the deregistration request message being used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network.

[0028] Using the above method, if the last running timer times out or stops before the terminal device completes registration in the first network, the terminal device will not execute the deregistration process. Instead, it will first complete registration in the first network and then execute the deregistration process. This allows the registration process to be completed in a timely manner, avoiding both the registration and deregistration processes from taking a long time to finish, thus improving system efficiency.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the first timer is a Tsor-cm timer.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: starting the first timer according to the roaming guidance connection mode control information SOR-CMCI.

[0031] In one possible implementation, starting the first timer according to the Roaming Guidance Connection Mode Control Information (SOR-CMCI) includes: starting the first timer if the first service currently being performed by the terminal device in the first network is one of at least one of the services indicated by the SOR-CMCI; or starting the first timer if the data network name (DNN) or slice of the first session established by the terminal device in the first network is one of at least one DNN or slice indicated by the SOR-CMCI.

[0032] Alternatively, if the roaming guidance SOR security check fails in the first network, the first timer is started.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the method further includes: sending a second registration request message to a second network device in a second network, the second registration request message being used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the second network, the second network being the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

[0034] Using the above method, the terminal device first registers in the first network and then registers in the second network, thereby enabling roaming to the priority roaming network indicated by the home public land mobile network (i.e., the second network), avoiding prolonged stay in the non-priority roaming network (i.e., the first network), and improving system efficiency.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the second network is a priority roaming network in a network list, the network list being derived from the terminal device's home public land mobile network.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the registration type in the second registration request message is either initial registration or mobility registration.

[0038] Fourthly, this application also provides a communication device capable of implementing any of the methods provided in any of the first to second aspects described above. This communication device can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more units or modules corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a processor configured to support the communication device in performing corresponding functions of the network device, terminal device, or core network device described above. The communication device may also include a memory coupled to the processor, which stores necessary program instructions and data for the communication device. Optionally, the communication device further includes interface circuitry for supporting communication between the communication device and devices such as terminal devices.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the communication device includes corresponding functional modules, each used to implement the steps in the above method. The functions can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules corresponding to the functions described above.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit and a communication unit, which can perform the corresponding functions in the above method examples, as described in the methods provided in any of the first or second aspects, and will not be repeated here.

[0042] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor and an interface circuit. The interface circuit is used to receive signals from other communication devices outside the communication device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other communication devices outside the communication device. The processor implements the functional modules of the methods in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects through logic circuits or by executing computer programs or instructions. Optionally, the communication device further includes a memory for storing computer programs or instructions.

[0043] In a sixth aspect, a computer program product storing instructions is provided, which, when read and executed by a computer, implements the method in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects described above.

[0044] In a seventh aspect, a circuit is provided for performing the methods in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects described above. The circuit may include chip circuitry. Optionally, the circuit may also be coupled to a memory.

[0045] Eighthly, a chip is provided, comprising a processor, which, when executing a computer program or instructions, implements the methods in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects described above. Optionally, the chip may further include a memory, and the chip may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0046] A ninth aspect provides a communication device including a processor that implements the method in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects by means of logic circuits or by executing computer programs or instructions.

[0047] In a tenth aspect, a communication apparatus is provided, comprising a unit or module for performing a method in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects described above.

[0048] Eleventhly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program or instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the method in any possible implementation of any of the first to second aspects.

[0049] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system. The communication system includes: a terminal device for implementing the methods of the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof; and a network device for implementing the methods of the second aspect and any possible implementation thereof. Attached Figure Description

[0050] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a network architecture applicable to embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a network device architecture provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0052] Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram of a registration process in a roaming network;

[0053] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0055] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0056] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device structure provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0057] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of a communication device structure provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0058] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be described below 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. The terms "first," "second," and corresponding terminology in this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such terms can be interchanged where appropriate; this is merely a way of distinguishing objects with the same attributes in the embodiments of this application. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, so that a process, method, system, product, or device that comprises a series of units is not necessarily limited to those units, but may include other units not explicitly listed or inherent to these processes, methods, products, or devices. The methods and apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application are based on the same or similar technical concepts. Since the principles by which the methods and apparatus solve problems are similar, the implementations of the apparatus and methods can refer to each other, and repeated details will not be repeated.

[0059] The method provided in this application can be applied to various mobile communication systems, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), fourth-generation (4G) communication systems (e.g., Long Term Evolution (LTE)), fifth-generation (5G) communication systems (e.g., 5G New Radio (NR)), LTE and NR hybrid architectures, or new communication systems emerging in future communication developments. The communication system can also include machine-to-machine (M2M) networks, machine-type communication (MTC) networks, or other networks.

[0060] In the description of the embodiments of this application, "and / or" describes the relationship between associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent three cases: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the associated objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship.

[0061] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one" means one or more. "More" means two or more. "At least two" means two or three or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or multiple items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0062] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, Figure 1 The application scenario used in this application is illustrated using the architecture of the communication system shown. Figure 1As shown, this network architecture includes a visit publicland mobile network (VPLMN) and a home public land mobile network (HPLMN). The VPLMN includes network elements such as the network slice selection function (NSSF), network exposure function (NEF), network function repository function (NRF), policy control function (PCF), application function (AF), access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), and visit security edge protection proxy (vSEPP). These network elements can communicate with each other using a service-based approach. In addition, the AMF can communicate with the user equipment (UE) via the N1 interface, with the radio access network (RAN) via the N2 interface, with the SMF and UPF via the N4 interface, and with the UE and RAN. The RAN and UPF can communicate via the N3 interface, and the UPF and DN can communicate via the N6 interface. The HPLMN includes network elements such as UDM, NRF, PCF, authentication server function (AUSF), NEF, network slice specific authentication and authorization function (NSSAAF), and home security edge protection proxy (hSEPP). These network elements can also communicate with each other using a service-based approach. vSEPP and hSEPP can communicate via the N32 interface. During roaming, the UE accesses the VPLMN. Core network elements such as the AMF and SMF within the VPLMN and HPLMN are connected to the hSEPP via vSEPP, enabling communication between network elements within the VPLMN and HPLMN.

[0063] The functions of the aforementioned network elements are not limited and can be found in the descriptions in the relevant standards developed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). It should be understood that these network elements can be network components in hardware devices, software functions running on dedicated hardware, or virtualized functions instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform).

[0064] Understandable, Figure 1 This application only illustrates one possible communication system architecture that can be applied to an embodiment of the present application. In other possible scenarios, the communication system architecture may also include other devices.

[0065] In this embodiment, the access network device can be a device in a wireless network, and can also be referred to as a network device or a wireless access network device. The access network device can be a node that connects a terminal device to a radio access network (RAN). Access network devices include, but are not limited to: base stations, evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs), transmission reception points (TRPs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs) in 5G mobile communication systems, access network devices in open radio access networks (O-RANs), base stations in future mobile communication systems, or access nodes in wireless fidelity (WiFi) systems; or the access network device can be a module or unit that performs some of the functions of a base station, for example, a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a central unit control plane (CU-CP) module, or a central unit user plane (CU-UP) module. Access network equipment can be macro base stations, micro base stations, indoor stations, relay nodes, or donor nodes, etc. This application does not limit the specific technologies or equipment forms used in the access network equipment.

[0066] like Figure 2As shown, in some implementations, network devices can include centralized units (CUs) and distributed units (DUs). This includes RAN devices with CU and DU nodes that separate the protocol layers of the gNB in ​​the NR system. Some protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining partial or complete protocol layer functions are distributed across the DUs, which are centrally controlled by the CU. One CU can be associated with one or more DUs. In a typical protocol stack partitioning, the CU includes radio resource control (RRC) and the corresponding packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) for the control plane. The DU includes the radio link control (RLC) layer, the media access control (MAC) layer, and the physical (PHY) layer. Furthermore, the CU can be divided into a control plane (CU-CP) and a user plane (CU-UP). The CU-CP is responsible for control plane functions, mainly including RRC and the corresponding PDCP (PDCP-C). PDCP-C is mainly responsible for control plane data encryption / decryption, integrity protection, and data transmission. CU-UP is responsible for user plane functions, mainly including the Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) and the corresponding PDCP (PDCP-U). SDAP is primarily responsible for processing core network data and mapping flows to bearers. PDCP-U is mainly responsible for data plane encryption / decryption, integrity protection, header compression, sequence number maintenance, and data transmission. CU-CP and CU-UP are connected via the E1 interface. CU-CP represents the gNB connecting to the core network via the NG interface and to the DU via the F1 interface control plane (F1-C). CU-UP connects to the DU via the F1 interface user plane (F1-U). Alternatively, PDCP-C may also be located within CU-UP.

[0067] It is understood that CU (including CU-CP or CU-UP) or DU may have different names in different systems, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an open radio access network (O-RAN) system, CU can also be called O-CU (open CU), DU can also be called O-DU, CU-CP can also be called O-CU-CP, and CU-UP can also be called O-CU-UP. For ease of description, this application uses CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, and DU as examples. Network devices may also include active antenna units (AAUs). CU implements some of the functions of the gNB, and DU implements some of the functions of the gNB. For example, CU is responsible for handling non-real-time protocols and services, implementing the functions of the RRC layer. DU is responsible for handling physical layer protocols and real-time services, implementing the functions of the RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer.

[0068] The terminal device involved in the embodiments of this application can be a wireless terminal device capable of receiving network device scheduling and instruction information. The terminal device can be referred to as a terminal device, or it can also be called user equipment (UE), terminal, mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc. The terminal device can be a device that includes wireless communication functions (providing voice / data connectivity to the user). For example, a handheld device with wireless connectivity, or an in-vehicle device, in-vehicle module, etc. Currently, examples of terminal devices include: mobile phones, tablets, laptops, PDAs, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, wireless terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, intelligent vehicles, in-vehicle infotainment systems (or onboard transmitters) (T-boxes), and machine-to-machine / machine-type communication. Wireless terminals in communications (M2M / MTC) and Internet of Things (IoT) applications include communication devices, M2M / MTC terminal devices, and IoT terminal devices. For example, terminal devices can be in-vehicle equipment, vehicle-mounted modules, vehicles, on-board units (OBUs), roadside units (RSUs), T-boxes, chips, or systems-on-chips (SoCs), which can be installed in vehicles, OBUs, RSUs, or T-boxes. Wireless terminals in industrial control can be cameras, robots, etc. Wireless terminals in smart homes can be televisions, air conditioners, robot vacuums, speakers, set-top boxes, etc.Terminal devices can also be V2X devices, such as smart cars, digital cars, unmanned cars, driverless cars, pilotless cars, autonomous cars, pure electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), range-extended electric vehicles (REEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), new energy vehicles, and roadside units (RSUs).

[0069] Steering of roaming (SOR) is a technique that encourages roaming UEs to roam to a preferred roamed-to-network indicated by the HPLMN.

[0070] Steering of roaming connected mode control information (SOR-CMCI): This is used to control the timing of a UE in connected mode to move to idle mode in order to perform roaming guidance.

[0071] like Figure 3 As shown, this application provides a method for a terminal device to initiate mobility registration within a roaming network after accessing the network, specifically including:

[0072] Step 301: The terminal device sends a registration request message to the network device in the roaming network.

[0073] The registration request message can be used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the roaming network. In other words, the registration request message can be used to request the terminal device to register in the roaming network.

[0074] After the terminal device is in a connected state in the roaming network, the terminal device can start at least one Tsor-cm timer according to SOR-CMCI. The Tsor-cm timer can be started before or after step 301.

[0075] For example, if a terminal device is performing a voice service while roaming in a network, and the terminal device determines that the SOR-CMCI indicates a voice service, then it starts the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the voice service. If the voice service ends, the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the voice service stops counting.

[0076] For example, if the DNN of a PDU session established by a terminal device in a roaming network is the same as the DNN of a PDU session indicated by SOR-CMCI, then the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the PDU session is started. If the PDU session is released, the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the PDU session stops counting.

[0077] For example, if the terminal device fails the SOR security check in a roaming network, the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the SOR security check failure will be started.

[0078] If all Tsor-cm timers started by SOR-CMCI expire or stop before registration is completed in the roaming network, the terminal device will interrupt the registration process and trigger a normal de-registration process. Please refer to the following steps for details.

[0079] Step 302: The terminal device sends a registration request message to the network device in the roaming network.

[0080] The de-registration request message is used to trigger the terminal device to de-register in the roaming network. The de-registration type in the de-registration request message is normal de-registration.

[0081] For network devices, before the terminal device completes registration, if the network device receives a deregistration request message and determines that the registration type is normal deregistration, it continues the registration process, meaning the network device continues to wait for the registration completion message from the terminal device. At this time, the network device will not respond to the terminal device's deregistration request message or send a deregistration acceptance message, causing the deregistration process to take a long time to complete. For example, after receiving the registration request message, the network device sends a registration acceptance message and starts a T3550 timer. If the T3550 timer expires and the network device has not received the registration completion message from the terminal device, the network device retransmits the registration acceptance message and restarts the T3550 timer until the maximum number of retransmissions of the registration acceptance message is reached.

[0082] For terminal devices, if a terminal device sends a registration request message before completing its registration, it will not send a registration completion message to the network device, meaning the registration process will not continue, causing it to take a long time to finish. Furthermore, the terminal device will continue the deregistration process, waiting for a deregistration acceptance message from the network device. For example, after sending the registration request message, the terminal device starts a T3521 timer. If the T3521 timer expires and the terminal device has not received a deregistration acceptance message from the network device, it will resend the registration request message and restart the T3521 timer until the maximum number of retransmissions of the registration request message is reached.

[0083] In summary, if a terminal device sends a registration request message before completing its registration in the roaming network, both the registration and deregistration processes will be unable to complete for an extended period.

[0084] Therefore, this application provides a method to end the registration process as quickly as possible in the above scenarios, thereby improving system efficiency, which will be described in detail below.

[0085] The method provided in this application is applied to Figure 1 In a network architecture, the functions of network devices can be executed by modules (such as chips) within the network devices, or by a control subsystem that includes network device functions. This control subsystem, which includes network device functions, can be a control center in application scenarios such as smart grids, industrial control, intelligent transportation, and smart cities. Similarly, the functions of terminal devices can be executed by modules (such as chips or modems) within the terminal devices, or by devices that include terminal device functions.

[0086] The network architecture and business scenarios described in the embodiments of this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of network architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0087] It is understood that this application does not specifically limit the structure of the execution subject of the method provided in the embodiments of this application. It can be applied to modules in terminal devices or network devices, as long as they can communicate according to the method provided in the embodiments of this application by running a program that records the code of the method provided in the embodiments of this application. The following description takes the interaction between terminal devices and network devices as an example.

[0088] like Figure 4 The diagram shown is a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method includes:

[0089] Step 401: The terminal device sends a first registration request message to the first network device in the first network.

[0090] Accordingly, the first network device receives the first registration request message from the terminal device.

[0091] The first registration request message is used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the first network. It can be understood that this first registration request message can specifically be used to request the registration of the terminal device to the first network. Furthermore, the registration in this application can be understood as a registration process and is not limited thereto.

[0092] Optionally, the registration type in the first registration request message is mobility registration. It should be noted that the first registration request message can also be called a mobility periodic registration request message; this application does not limit the name of the first registration request message.

[0093] The first network can be the roaming network of the terminal device, that is, the terminal device roaming from its home public land mobile network to the first network. This first network can also be called the first VPLMN or the first roaming network.

[0094] It should be noted that when the terminal device sends the first registration request message, the terminal device can be in a connected state in the first network. This connected state can refer to RRC connected state, or it can also be called connected mode, etc., without restriction.

[0095] Optionally, the first network device is an AMF network element, or it can be a network element with mobility management and registration management functions. The terminal device can send a first registration request message to the first network device through the access network device. The specific process is not limited in this application and will not be described in detail here.

[0096] Step 402: If the last running first timer times out or stops before the terminal device completes registration in the first network, then at least one of the following actions is performed: releasing the connection with the first network; sending first information to the first network device.

[0097] The first information can be used to terminate the registration in step S401. Terminating registration can be understood as terminating the registration triggered by the first registration request message.

[0098] The first timer is used for roaming guidance SOR of the terminal device. This can be understood as timing the transition of a terminal device in a non-priority roaming network from a connected state to an idle state, so that the terminal device can perform roaming guidance and avoid being in a non-priority roaming network for an extended period. This first timer can also be called the Tsor-cm timer, and it can be started according to SOR-CMCI.

[0099] It should be noted that after the terminal device accesses the first network, the terminal device's home public land mobile network can send SOR-CMCI and network list information to the terminal device through the first network. The SOR-CMCI can indicate the DNN or slice of at least one service and / or at least one session; the network list can indicate at least one preferred roamed-to-network, for example, the network list includes the identifier of at least one preferred roamed-to-network.

[0100] The service indicated by SOR-CMCI can be voice service, SMS service, or video service, etc., and this application does not limit the service type. The session indicated by SOR-CMCI can be a PDU session. Priority roaming network can be understood as the roaming network that the terminal device has priority access to.

[0101] It should be noted that the aforementioned first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

[0102] Specifically, when the terminal device is in a connected state in the first network, it can start at least one Tsor-cm timer according to SOR-CMCI. The Tsor-cm timer can be started before or after step 401.

[0103] Example 1: If a terminal device performs a first service in a first network, and the first service is one of at least one of the services indicated by SOR-CMCI, then the terminal device starts Tsor-cm timer 1 corresponding to the first service. When the first service ends, Tsor-cm timer 1 corresponding to the first service is stopped; or, before the first service ends, Tsor-cm timer 1 may also time out due to the end of the timing.

[0104] Example 2: If the DNN or slice of the first session established for the terminal device in the first network is the same as the DNN or slice of one of the sessions indicated by SOR-CMCI, then the Tsor-cm timer 2 corresponding to the first session is started. If the first session is released, then the Tsor-cm timer 2 corresponding to the first session is stopped; or, before the first session is released, the Tsor-cm timer 2 may also time out due to the end of the timing.

[0105] Example 3: If the terminal device fails the SOR security check in the first network, then the corresponding Tsor-cm timer 3 is started. Tsor-cm timer 3 may time out due to the end of its timing cycle. This application does not limit how the terminal device specifically performs the SOR security check, and will not elaborate further here. The timing duration of Tsor-cm timers 1 to 3 can be indicated by the network side, or it can be preset or agreed upon by the protocol; this application does not limit this.

[0106] It should be noted that the above examples can be combined with each other, that is, executed simultaneously, without restriction.

[0107] In this application, the method by which the terminal device determines that registration in the first network is incomplete is not limited. For example, if the terminal device is in the registration initial state in the first network, then the registration of the terminal device in the first network is incomplete. As another example, if the terminal device does not send a registration completion message to the first network device, then the registration of the terminal device in the first network is incomplete.

[0108] Optionally, the last running first timer timeout or stop can be replaced by the following description: all services of the terminal device in the first network have ended, and / or all sessions established for the terminal device in the first network have been released, and / or the terminal device has experienced a SOR security check failure in the first network.

[0109] Optionally, the last running first timer timeout or stop can be replaced by the following description: the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to each service in all services of the terminal device in the first network timeout or stop, and / or the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to each session in all sessions established for the terminal device in the first network timeout or stop, and / or the Tsor-cm timer corresponding to the SOR security check failure of the terminal device in the first network timeout or stop.

[0110] The above are just examples. The timeout or stop of the last running timer can be replaced with other descriptions, which will not be illustrated one by one here.

[0111] In this application, if the last running first timer times out or stops, the terminal device can perform roaming guidance, that is, the terminal device can roam to the priority roaming network indicated by the home public land mobile network, the specific process of which will be described later.

[0112] The last running timer will be explained using Examples 1-3. Assuming both Tsor-cm timer 1 and Tsor-cm timer 2 have been started, if the first session ends before the first service (i.e., Tsor-cm timer 2 is stopped first, then Tsor-cm timer 1 is stopped), and the terminal device does not start a new Tsor-cm timer, then Tsor-cm timer 1 is the last running Tsor-cm timer.

[0113] In this application, the terminal device may release its connection with the first network in at least one of the following ways:

[0114] In method one, the terminal device sends a release message to the first network device. This release message is used to release the connection with the first network. This connection can be an RRC connection, and the release message can also be called an RRC connection release message; the specific name of the release message is not limited.

[0115] Method 2: The terminal device executes the local release process corresponding to the first network.

[0116] For example, when a terminal device transitions from a connected state to an idle state in the first network, the terminal device releases the configuration information associated with the connected state.

[0117] Optionally, if the last running first timer times out or stops, the terminal device can also execute the local deregistration process corresponding to the first network. For example, the terminal device updates its status in the first network to the deregistered state.

[0118] In this application, if the terminal device sends first information to the first network device, the above method may further include the following process executed by the first network device:

[0119] Step 403: If a first message is received from the terminal device before the terminal device's registration is completed, and the first message is used to terminate the registration, then the first network device terminates the terminal device's registration in the first network.

[0120] In this application, there is no limitation on how the first network device determines that the registration of the terminal device in the first network is incomplete. For example, if the first network device does not receive a registration completion message from the terminal device, it determines that the registration is incomplete.

[0121] In one optional implementation, the first information includes a deregistration request message, which triggers the terminal device to deregister in the first network. The deregistration type in the deregistration request message can be either "switch off" or "urgent deregistration," and can also be any other type with higher priority than the normal deregistration type, without restriction.

[0122] Emergency registration can be understood as a newly defined type of registration. Emergency registration can also be called high-priority network selection registration or priority roaming network registration, etc. This application does not limit the name of emergency registration.

[0123] In this application, after receiving the first information, the first network device can terminate the registration triggered by the first registration request message, for example, by terminating the registration process or ceasing to send signaling during the registration process to the terminal device. Furthermore, the first network device can also release the context information of the terminal device obtained during the registration process and release the resources allocated to the terminal device.

[0124] In this application, after receiving the first information, the first network device can also execute a deregistration process. For example, the first network device sends a deregistration acceptance message to the terminal device. Correspondingly, the terminal device receives the deregistration acceptance message from the first network device; the deregistration acceptance message is used to indicate acceptance of the terminal device's deregistration in the first network.

[0125] In one implementation, after the terminal device releases its connection with the first network or sends the first information, the terminal device can also perform roaming guidance. Specifically, the terminal device can send a second registration request message to a second network device in the second network. The second registration request message is used to trigger the terminal device's registration in the second network. The second network device is similar to the first network device and will not be described further.

[0126] The second network can be a preferred roaming network from the network list indicated by the home public land mobile network of the terminal device; that is, the second network is the preferred roaming network of the terminal device. Specifically, the terminal device selects this preferred roaming network from the network list, and this application does not limit how it selects it. The second network can also be referred to as a second VPLMN or a second roaming network.

[0127] The registration type in the second registration request message can be either initial registration or mobility registration. For example, if the terminal device has performed local registration with the first network, the registration type in the second registration request message is initial registration; if the terminal device has not performed local registration with the first network, the registration type in the second registration request message is mobility registration.

[0128] Accordingly, after receiving the second registration request message, the second network device sends a second registration acceptance message to the terminal device. After receiving the second registration acceptance message, the terminal device sends a second registration completion message to the second network device, thereby completing the terminal device's registration in the second network. Furthermore, the terminal device can update its status in the second network to "registered".

[0129] Using the above method, before the terminal device completes registration with the first network, if the last running timer times out or stops, the terminal device does not execute the deregistration process but instead releases its connection with the first network, thus ending the registration process. This eliminates the need to wait for registration-related signaling from the network side, significantly improving registration efficiency. Alternatively, the terminal device can also instruct the first network device to terminate registration in the first network via first information, causing the network side to end the registration process without waiting for registration-related signaling from the terminal side, further improving registration efficiency.

[0130] In this application, before the terminal device completes registration in the first network, if the last running first timer times out or stops, the terminal device can wait for registration to complete and then execute the deregistration process after registration is complete, as described below.

[0131] like Figure 5 The diagram shown is a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The method includes:

[0132] Step 501: The terminal device sends a first registration request message to the first network device in the first network.

[0133] Accordingly, the first network device receives the first registration request message from the terminal device.

[0134] The first registration request message is used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the first network. The first registration request message can also be called a mobility periodic registration request message; however, this application does not limit the name of the first registration request message.

[0135] Optionally, the registration type in the first registration request message is mobility registration.

[0136] The first network can be the roaming network of the terminal device; for details, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 4 The description in the illustrated embodiment.

[0137] It should be noted that when the terminal device sends the first registration request message, it can be in a connected state in the first network. This connected state can refer to RRC connected state, or it can be described as connected mode, etc.

[0138] Optionally, the first network device is an AMF network element, or it can be a network element with mobility management and registration management functions. For details, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 4 The description in the illustrated embodiment.

[0139] It should be noted that after the terminal device accesses the first network, the terminal device's home public land mobile network can send SOR-CMCI and network list information to the terminal device through the first network. The SOR-CMCI can indicate the DNN or slice of at least one service and / or at least one session; the network list can indicate at least one preferred roaming network. The service and session information can be referenced from... Figure 4 The description in the illustrated embodiment.

[0140] When the terminal device is in a connected state in the first network, it can start at least one first timer according to SOR-CMCI. The first timer can also be called the Tsor-cm timer. For details, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 4 The description in the illustrated embodiment.

[0141] Step 502: If the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed, then send a registration request message to the first network device after the registration is completed.

[0142] The deregistration request message is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network.

[0143] For the last timer to run, if the first timer times out or stops, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 4 The descriptions in the illustrated embodiments will not be repeated here.

[0144] It should be noted that when a terminal device receives a registration acceptance message from the first network device and sends a registration completion message to the first network device, it can be understood that the terminal device has completed its registration in the first network.

[0145] Optionally, the de-registration type in the de-registration request message can be normal de-registration.

[0146] Using the above method, if the last running timer times out or stops before the terminal device completes its registration in the first network, the terminal device does not execute the deregistration process. Instead, it first completes its registration process in the first network and then executes its deregistration process in the first network. This ensures the timely completion of the registration process and avoids both the registration and deregistration processes taking a long time to complete, thus improving system efficiency.

[0147] In one implementation, after the terminal device completes registration in the first network, it can also perform roaming guidance. Specifically, the terminal device can send a second registration request message to a second network device in the second network, which triggers the terminal device's registration in the second network.

[0148] The second network is a preferred roaming network selected by the terminal device from a list of networks indicated by the home public land mobile network; that is, the second network is the terminal device's preferred roaming network. This application does not limit how the terminal device selects the preferred roaming network from the network list. The second network may also be referred to as a second VPLMN or a second roaming network.

[0149] The registration type in the second registration request message is either initial registration or mobility registration. For example, if the terminal device has performed local registration with the first network, the registration type in the second registration request message is initial registration; if the terminal device has not performed local registration with the first network, the registration type in the second registration request message is mobility registration.

[0150] Accordingly, after receiving the second registration request message, the second network device sends a second registration acceptance message to the terminal device. After receiving the second registration acceptance message, the terminal device sends a second registration completion message to the second network device, thus completing its registration in the second network. The terminal device can then update its status in the second network to "registered".

[0151] Using the above method, the terminal device first registers in the first network and then registers in the second network, thereby enabling roaming to the priority roaming network indicated by the home public land mobile network (i.e., the second network), avoiding prolonged stay in the non-priority roaming network (i.e., the first network), and improving system efficiency.

[0152] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the terminal device or network device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to perform each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0153] The following are schematic diagrams of possible communication devices provided in the embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of terminal devices or network devices in the above method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments.

[0154] like Figure 6 As shown, the communication device 600 includes a processing unit 610 and a communication unit 620. The communication device 600 is used to implement the functions of the terminal device or network device in the various method embodiments shown above.

[0155] When the communication device 600 is used to implement the functions of a terminal device:

[0156] A communication unit is configured to send a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, wherein the first registration request message is used to trigger the registration of a terminal device in the first network;

[0157] The processing unit is configured to, if the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed, perform at least one of the following: release the connection with the first network;

[0158] The first information is sent to the first network device through the communication unit, and the first information is used to terminate the registration.

[0159] The first timer is used for roaming guidance of the terminal device.

[0160] When the communication device 600 is used to implement the functions of a network device:

[0161] A communication unit is configured to receive a first registration request message from a terminal device, the first registration request message being used to trigger the terminal device to register in a first network;

[0162] The processing unit is configured to terminate the registration if it receives first information from the terminal device before the registration is completed, and the first information is used to terminate the registration.

[0163] When the communication device 600 is used to implement the functions of a terminal device:

[0164] A communication unit is configured to send a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, wherein the first registration request message is used to trigger the registration of a terminal device in the first network;

[0165] The communication unit is configured to send a deregistration request message to the first network device after the registration is completed if the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed. The deregistration request message is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network.

[0166] More detailed descriptions of the processing unit 610 and the communication unit 620 can be obtained directly from the relevant descriptions in the above method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0167] It should be understood that the division of units in the above device is merely a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, all units in the device can be implemented entirely through software calls from processing elements; all units can be implemented entirely in hardware; or some units can be implemented through software calls from processing elements, while others are implemented in hardware. For example, each unit can be a separate processing element, or it can be integrated into a chip within the device. Alternatively, it can be stored as a program in memory, called and executed by a processing element of the device. Moreover, these units can be fully or partially integrated together, or implemented independently. The processing element here can also be called a processor, which can be an integrated circuit with signal processing capabilities. In the implementation process, the operations or units described above can be implemented through integrated logic circuits in the processor element or through software calls from processing elements.

[0168] In one example, a unit in any of the above devices can be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the methods described above, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these forms of integrated circuits. As another example, when a unit in the device can be implemented in the form of a processing element scheduler, the processing element can be a processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), or other processor capable of calling programs. Furthermore, these units can be integrated together to implement a system-on-a-chip (SOC).

[0169] The receiving unit described above is an interface circuit of the device, used to receive signals from other devices. For example, when the device is implemented as a chip, the receiving unit is an interface circuit for the chip to receive signals from other chips or devices. The transmitting unit described above is an interface circuit of the device, used to transmit signals to other devices. For example, when the device is implemented as a chip, the transmitting unit is an interface circuit for the chip to transmit signals to other chips or devices.

[0170] As another possible product form, the terminal device or network device in this application embodiment can be implemented using a general bus architecture. For ease of explanation, see [link to documentation]. Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 700 provided in an embodiment of this application. The communication device 700 includes a processor 701; optionally, the communication device 700 also includes a transceiver 702. The communication device 700 can be a terminal device, or a chip or chip system therein; or, the communication device 700 can be a network device, or a chip or module therein. Figure 7 Only the main components of the communication device 700 are shown. In addition to the processor 701 and transceiver 702, the communication device 700 may further include a memory 703 and input / output devices (not shown).

[0171] Optionally, the processor 701 is mainly used to process communication protocols and communication data, control the entire communication device, execute software programs, and process the data of the software programs. The memory 703 is mainly used to store software programs and data. The transceiver 702 may include radio frequency (RF) circuitry and an antenna. The RF circuitry is mainly used for converting baseband signals to RF signals and processing RF signals. The antenna is mainly used for transmitting and receiving RF signals in the form of electromagnetic waves. Input / output devices, such as touchscreens, displays, and keyboards, are mainly used to receive user input data and output data to the user.

[0172] Optionally, the processor 701, transceiver 702, and memory 703 can be connected via a communication bus.

[0173] When the communication device is powered on, the processor 701 can read the software program in the memory 703, interpret and execute the instructions of the software program, and process the data of the software program. When data needs to be transmitted wirelessly, the processor 701 performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and outputs the baseband signal to the radio frequency (RF) circuit. The RF circuit processes the baseband signal and transmits the RF signal outward in the form of electromagnetic waves through the antenna. When data is sent to the communication device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal through the antenna, converts the RF signal into a baseband signal, and outputs the baseband signal to the processor 701. The processor 701 converts the baseband signal into data and processes the data.

[0174] In another implementation, the radio frequency circuitry and antenna can be set up independently of the processor that performs baseband processing. For example, in a distributed scenario, the radio frequency circuitry and antenna can be arranged remotely, independent of the communication device.

[0175] In some embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the above-described communication device 600 can be implemented in hardware using... Figure 7 The communication device 700 shown is in the form of this device.

[0176] As an example, Figure 6The function / implementation process of the processing unit 610 can be achieved through... Figure 7 The processor 701 in the communication device 700 shown calls computer execution instructions stored in the memory 703 to implement the function. Figure 6 The function / implementation process of the communication unit 620 can be achieved through... Figure 7 This is achieved through the transceiver 702 in the communication device 700 shown.

[0177] As another possible product form, the terminal device or network device in this application can adopt... Figure 8 The shown composition structure, or including Figure 8 The components shown. Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the composition of a communication device 800 provided in this application.

[0178] like Figure 8 As shown, the communication device 800 includes at least one processor 801. Optionally, the communication device also includes a communication interface 802.

[0179] When the relevant program instructions are executed in the at least one processor 801, the communication device 800 can implement the methods and any possible designs provided in any of the foregoing embodiments. Alternatively, the processor 801 can implement the methods and any possible designs provided in any of the foregoing embodiments through logic circuits or executable code instructions.

[0180] The communication interface 802 can be used to receive program instructions and transmit them to the processor, or it can be used for communication interaction between the communication device 800 and other communication devices, such as exchanging control signaling and / or service data. For example, the communication interface 802 can be used to receive signals from other devices besides the communication device 800 and transmit them to the processor 801, or to send signals from the processor 801 to other communication devices besides the communication device 800.

[0181] Optionally, the communication interface 802 can be a code and / or data read / write interface circuit, or the communication interface 802 can be a signal transmission interface circuit between a communication processor and a transceiver, or a chip pin.

[0182] Optionally, the communication device 800 may further include at least one memory 803, which can be used to store the required program instructions and / or data. It should be noted that the memory 803 may exist independently of the processor 801 or may be integrated with the processor 801. The memory 803 may be located within or outside the communication device 800, without limitation.

[0183] Optionally, the communication device 800 may further include a power supply circuit 804, which can be used to power the processor 801. The power supply circuit 804 may be located in the same chip as the processor 801, or in a separate chip outside the chip containing the processor 801.

[0184] Optionally, the communication device 800 may also include a bus, through which the various parts of the communication device 800 can be interconnected.

[0185] In some embodiments, the hardware implementation will be apparent to those skilled in the art as described above. Figure 6 The communication device 600 shown can be adopted Figure 8 The communication device shown is in the form of 800.

[0186] As an example, Figure 6 The function / implementation process of the processing unit 610 can be achieved through... Figure 8 The processor 801 in the communication device 800 shown calls computer execution instructions stored in the memory 803 to implement the function. Figure 6 The function / implementation process of the communication unit 620 can be achieved through... Figure 8 This is achieved through the communication interface 802 in the communication device 800 shown.

[0187] It should be pointed out that, Figure 8 The structures shown do not constitute a specific limitation on the terminal device or network device. For example, in other embodiments of this application, the terminal device or network device may include more or fewer components than those shown, or combine some components, or split some components, or have different component arrangements. The components shown may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0188] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a terminal, the terminal chip implements the functions of the terminal in the above method embodiments. The terminal chip receives information from other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the terminal, which is information sent to the terminal by the base station; or, the terminal chip sends information to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the terminal, which is information sent to the base station by the terminal.

[0189] When the aforementioned communication device is a module applied to a base station, the base station module implements the functions of the base station in the above method embodiments. The base station module receives information from other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the base station, information sent by the terminal to the base station; or, the base station module sends information to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the base station, information sent by the base station to the terminal. Here, the base station module can be the baseband chip of the base station, or a DU (Digital Unit) or other modules. The DU can be a DU under an Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture.

[0190] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0191] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing instructions that, when executed, cause the methods executed by the devices in any of the above method embodiments to be implemented. The computer-readable storage medium may include various media capable of storing program code, such as a USB flash drive, portable hard drive, read-only memory, random access memory, magnetic disk, or optical disk.

[0192] Based on the above embodiments, this application provides a communication system, which includes terminal devices and network devices mentioned in any of the above method embodiments. The terminal devices can be used to execute the methods executed by the terminal devices in any of the above method embodiments, and the network devices can be used to execute the methods executed by the network devices in any of the above method embodiments.

[0193] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are executed, they implement the methods performed by the terminal device or network device in the aforementioned method embodiments. Thus, the functions described in the above embodiments can be implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products.

[0194] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a computer program product, which includes: computer program code, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method executed by the terminal device or network device in any of the foregoing method embodiments.

[0195] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a communication device, including a processor and an interface; the processor is used to execute the method executed by the terminal device or network device in any of the above method embodiments.

[0196] Based on the above embodiments, this application also provides a chip, including a processor coupled to a memory, for executing computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, so that the chip implements the method executed by the terminal device or network device in any of the above method embodiments.

[0197] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a base station or terminal. Of course, the processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the base station or terminal.

[0198] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

[0199] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features of different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0200] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.

[0201] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to this application. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart illustrations. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0202] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0203] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, the first registration request message being used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the first network; If the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed, then at least one of the following will be executed: Release the connection with the first network; Send first information to the first network device, the first information being used to terminate the registration; The first timer is used for roaming guidance of the terminal device.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first timer is a Tsor-cm timer.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: A second registration request message is sent to a second network device in the second network. The second registration request message is used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the second network, which is the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The second network is a priority roaming network in a network list, which is derived from the home public land mobile network of the terminal device.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but it is not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

6. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 5, characterized in that, The registration type in the second registration request message is either initial registration or mobility registration.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The release of the connection with the first network includes: Send a release message to the first network device, the release message being used to release the connection with the first network; And / or, execute the local release process corresponding to the first network.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Execute the local deregistration process corresponding to the first network.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first information includes a deregistration request message, which is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network. The deregistration type in the deregistration request message is either power off or emergency deregistration.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a deregistration acceptance message from the first network device; the deregistration acceptance message is used to indicate acceptance of the terminal device's deregistration in the first network.

11. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Receive a first registration request message from a terminal device, the first registration request message being used to trigger the terminal device to register in a first network; If a first message is received from the terminal device before the registration is completed, and the first message is used to terminate the registration, then the registration is terminated.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The first information includes a deregistration request message, which is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network. The deregistration type in the deregistration request message is either power off or emergency deregistration.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a deregistration acceptance message to the terminal device; the deregistration acceptance message is used to indicate acceptance of the terminal device's deregistration in the first network.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that, The first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but it is not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

15. A communication method, characterized in that, include: Send a first registration request message to a first network device in the first network, the first registration request message being used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the first network; If the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed, a deregistration request message is sent to the first network device after the registration is completed. The deregistration request message is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first timer is a Tsor-cm timer.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The method further includes: A second registration request message is sent to a second network device in the second network. The second registration request message is used to trigger the registration of the terminal device in the second network, which is the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The second network is a priority roaming network in a network list, which is derived from the home public land mobile network of the terminal device.

19. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 18, characterized in that, The first network is the roaming network of the terminal device, but it is not the preferred roaming network of the terminal device.

20. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A communication unit is configured to send a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, wherein the first registration request message is used to trigger the registration of a terminal device in the first network; The processing unit is configured to, if the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed, perform at least one of the following: release the connection with the first network; The first information is sent to the first network device through the communication unit, and the first information is used to terminate the registration. The first timer is used for roaming guidance of the terminal device.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A communication unit is configured to receive a first registration request message from a terminal device, the first registration request message being used to trigger the terminal device to register in a first network; The processing unit is configured to terminate the registration if it receives first information from the terminal device before the registration is completed, and the first information is used to terminate the registration.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, include: A communication unit is configured to send a first registration request message to a first network device in a first network, wherein the first registration request message is used to trigger the registration of a terminal device in the first network; The communication unit is configured to send a deregistration request message to the first network device after the registration is completed if the last running first timer times out or stops before the registration is completed. The deregistration request message is used to trigger the terminal device to deregister in the first network.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, Including processor and memory; The processor is configured to execute computer programs or instructions stored in the memory, causing the communication device to implement the method described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

24. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer contains a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 19.

25. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes a processor coupled to a memory for executing a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, such that the chip implements the method of any one of claims 1 to 19.

26. A computer program product, characterized in that, When the computer reads and executes the computer program product, the method described in any one of claims 1 to 19 is performed.

27. A communication system, characterized in that, include: Terminal equipment and network equipment; the terminal equipment is used to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10; The network device is used to implement the method according to any one of claims 11 to 13.

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