Method and device for providing services using multiple SIMs

Abstract

An operation method of a first network entity in a wireless communication system includes the steps of receiving a registration request message related to a plurality of SIMs (subscription identity modules) from a terminal, performing a registration procedure for the plurality of SIMs based on the registration request message, determining a priority among at least one registered SIM, and transmitting a registration accept message including information related to the priority to the terminal.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a wireless communication system, and to a method and apparatus for providing services using multiple SIMs (subscription identity modules), and more particularly, to a method and apparatus for effectively supporting communication services when a terminal uses various subscription information in a wireless communication system. [Background technology]

[0002] 4G(4 th Since the commercialization of the 5G (5G) communication system, the demand for wireless data traffic has been on the rise. thEfforts are being made to develop a 5G (first generation) communication system or a pre-5G communication system. For this reason, a 5G communication system or a pre-5G communication system is called a beyond 4G network communication system or a post-LTE (long term evolution) system. In order to achieve a high data transmission rate, the 5G communication system is being considered to be implemented in an ultra-high frequency (mmWave) band (such as the 60 giga (70 GHz) band). In order to mitigate the path loss of radio waves in the ultra-high frequency band and extend the transmission distance of radio waves, technologies such as beamforming, massive MIMO (multi input multi output), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beamforming, and large scale antenna are being discussed in the 5G communication system. In addition, to improve the system network, technologies such as advanced small cells, cloud radio access network (RAN), ultra-dense network, device to device communication (D2D), wireless backhaul, moving network, cooperative communication, coordinated multi-points (CoMP), and interference cancellation are being developed in the 5G communication system.In addition, advanced coding modulation (ACM) schemes such as hybrid FSK and QAM modulation (FQAM) and sliding window superposition coding (SWSC), as well as advanced access technologies such as filter bank multi carrier (FBMC), non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) and sparse code multiple access (SCMA) are being developed for the 5G system.

[0003] Meanwhile, the Internet is evolving into an Internet of Things (IoT) network that exchanges and processes information between distributed components such as things, as a human-centered connection network where people generate and consume information. IoE (Internet of Everything) technology, which combines big data processing technology through connection to cloud servers, etc., with IoT technology, has also been proposed. To realize IoT, technological elements such as sensing technology, wired and wireless communication and network infrastructure, service interface technology, and security technology are required, and recently, technologies such as sensor networks for connecting things, machine to machine communication (M2M), and machine type communication (MTC) are being researched. In the IoT environment, intelligent IT (internet technology) services can be provided that collect and analyze data generated by connected things and create new value in people's lives. IoT will be applied to areas such as smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart cars or connected cars, smart grids, healthcare, smart home appliances, and advanced medical services through the fusion and integration of existing IT (information technology) with various industries.

[0004] As a result, various attempts are being made to apply 5G communication systems to IoT networks. For example, technologies such as sensor networks, machine-to-machine communication (M2M), and MTC are being implemented using 5G communication technologies such as beamforming, MIMO, and array antennas. The application of cloud radio access network (cloud RAN) as the aforementioned big data processing technology can also be said to be an example of the fusion of 3eG technology and IoT technology.

[0005] As a result of the above and the development of wireless communication systems, it has become possible to provide a variety of services, and therefore there is a demand for methods for smoothly providing such services. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and a method for effectively providing services in a wireless communication system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of operating a first network entity in a wireless communication system also includes a step of receiving a registration request message related to a plurality of SIMs (subscription identity modules) from a terminal, a step of performing a registration procedure for the plurality of SIMs based on the registration request message, a step of determining a priority among at least one registered SIM, and a step of transmitting a registration accept message including information related to the priority to the terminal. Effect of the Invention

[0008] The disclosed embodiments provide an apparatus and method capable of effectively supporting services in a wireless communication system. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a 5G system structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram for explaining a method for processing multiple subscription information in one terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method for processing traffic in multiple SIMs according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] A diagram for explaining a method for determining priority among multiple SIMs during generation of a PDU session according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 1 is a diagram for explaining a terminal control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram for explaining a SIM control method of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a diagram for explaining a method for controlling services in a situation where multiple SIMs are managed by different systems according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a diagram for explaining a method for searching for a system in which a SIM of a terminal is registered according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a network entity according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation of a network entity according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The terms used in this disclosure are merely used to describe a particular embodiment and are not intended to limit the scope of other embodiments. A singular expression may include a plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art in the technical field described in this disclosure. In the terms used in this disclosure, general and predefined terms are interpreted to have the same or similar meaning as the meaning they have in the context of the related art, and are not interpreted to be ideal or overly formal unless clearly defined in this disclosure. In some cases, even if a term is defined in this disclosure, it is not interpreted to exclude an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] In various embodiments of the present disclosure described below, a hardware approach will be described as an example. However, since various embodiments of the present disclosure include techniques using both hardware and software, various embodiments of the present disclosure do not exclude software-based access methods. For example, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to a case where a network function (NF) is embodied in a software form rather than a hardware form, is virtualized, or operates in a cloud.

[0012] Hereinafter, the present disclosure relates to a method and an apparatus for supporting various services in a wireless communication system. Specifically, the present disclosure describes a technology for effectively supporting various services when one terminal has multiple subscriptions in a wireless communication system. The fact that one terminal has multiple subscriptions is realized by one terminal having two or more subscription identity modules (SIMs) storing subscription information, and each SIM may be in the form of a physical card (e.g., UICC), or may be realized in the form of software, or may be realized by a combination of the two methods. Hereinafter, in the description of the embodiments of the present invention, subscription information and SIM are used to have the same meaning.

[0013] SIM means a connection control module for connecting to a mobile communication carrier's network. When a SIM is fixed to a terminal and used, it is called a USIM (universal subscriber identity module). A UICC including a USIM is generally called a USIM card. Similarly, a UICC including a SIM module is generally called a SIM card. In addition, a terminal can download and select a SIM module using a UICC card. In this disclosure, for convenience of explanation, a module that provides a connection control function for connecting to a mobile communication carrier's network is collectively called a SIM.

[0014] In the following description, terms for identifying a connection node, terms for network entities or NFs, terms for messages, terms for interfaces between network entities, terms for various identification information, etc. are provided as examples for the convenience of description. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms for objects having equivalent technical meanings may also be used.

[0015] For convenience of explanation, the present invention uses terms and names defined in 3GPP LTE (3rd generation partnership project long term evolution) and 5G standards. However, the present invention is not limited to the above terms and names and can be equally applied to systems according to other standards.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a 5G system structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Referring to FIG. 1, an access and mobility management function (AMF) is an NF that manages wireless network access and mobility for a terminal (UE). A session management function (SMF) is an NF that manages a session related to a terminal, and the session information includes QoS information, billing information, and information related to package processing. A user plane function (UPF) is an NF that processes user plane traffic and is also controlled by the SMF. Although not shown in FIG. 1, the 5G system includes an unstructured data storage network function (UDSF), which is an NF that stores unstructured data and can store or retrieve any type of data at the request of the NF.

[0018] Further, referring to FIG. 1, a network slice selection function (NSSF) for network slice selection, a network exposure / repository function (NEF / NRF) for providing information on network functions, a policy control function (PCF) for policy control, a user data management (UDM) for user data management, an application function (AF) for application control, an authentication server function (AUSF) related to terminal authentication, a service communication proxy (SCP) related to communication services, and a data network (DN) for data transmission are disclosed.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a method for processing multiple subscription information in one terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, all cases where one terminal uses two or more subscription information can be supported, but for convenience of explanation, a case where two subscription information are used will be described. That is, it goes without saying that the method described below can also be applied to a case where two or more subscription information are used.

[0021] 2, in the case of (1) passive, only one of the two SIMs is allowed to be used at a time, that is, only one of the two SIMs is used according to user settings or information stored in the terminal, and when the other SIM is selected, the existing SIM is not used.

[0022] Further, referring to FIG. 2, in the case of (2) hybrid standby, both SIMs can be used, but communication operations are applied to only one SIM at a time, and the other SIM without communication operations can be deactivated. Deactivation means that registration or attach procedures and authentication procedures for communicating with the network using the SIM are performed, but transmission and reception related to user plane traffic are not performed. In the case of (3) dual receiver standby in FIG. 2, both transmission and reception can be performed for one of the two SIMs, and only reception can be performed for the other SIM at the same time. In the case of (4) active in FIG. 2, both SIMs can transmit and receive simultaneously.

[0023] This disclosure relates to (2) hybrid standby and (3) dual receiver standby, in which two SIMs are simultaneously registered in a network and maintained in a state in which communication is possible. Specifically, a terminal can transmit and receive using only one SIM at a time ((2) hybrid standby), or transmit and receive using one SIM at a time while receiving using the other SIM ((3) dual receiver standby). On the other hand, in the above-mentioned cases (2) and (3), the following problematic situations may occur when the terminal connects to a network and communicates.

[0024] 1) If data is being sent or received through one SIM (first SIM) and traffic is generated for another SIM (second SIM), the second SIM will not be able to send or receive traffic, resulting in degradation of service quality.

[0025] 2) If paging occurs in one SIM while data is being transmitted or received in another SIM, the other SIM may not be able to receive the paging or send a response to the paging, which may result in degradation of service quality and waste of network resources.

[0026] 3) If traffic occurs on a second SIM while data is being sent or received on a first SIM, and the second SIM must stop sending or receiving traffic to or from the first SIM to process the traffic, degradation of service quality may occur.

[0027] FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method for handling traffic in multiple SIMs according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] In step 310, the terminal may perform a registration (or attach) process to the network using the first SIM. The order or priority of the SIMs may be determined by user settings, SIM-specific settings, or information stored in the terminal. The registration request (or attach request) message sent by the terminal includes information indicating that the terminal has the capability to support multiple SIMs (MUSIM capability indication) and includes the priority of the SIM currently used for registration among various SIMs.

[0029] In step 320, the core network, more specifically, the NF (AMF in the case of 5G, MME in the case of 4G) supporting registration and mobility management for the terminal processes the registration request received from the terminal in step 310 and receives subscription information for the SIM for which the registration request was received from the NF (UDM (user data management) in the case of 5G, HSS (home subscriber server) in the case of 4G). The subscription information may include whether or not a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the subscriber, and if the multiple SIM operation is permitted, may include information on SIMs that can be connected simultaneously with the SIM. The subscription information may also include a connection priority for the SIM. The AMF or mobility management entity (MME) may process the registration request for the terminal and the SIM using the registration request and subscription information of the terminal. At this time, the connection priority for the SIM is determined, and in order to determine the connection priority for the SIM, one or more of the connection priority received from the terminal and the connection priority included in the subscription information may be considered. Although omitted in FIG. 3, the AMF or MME may include information including whether the multiple SIM operation is supported by the network for the terminal or whether the multiple SIM operation is allowed for the terminal in a registration accept (or attach accept) message and transmit it to the terminal. In addition, the connection priority determined for the SIM is also included in the registration accept message.

[0030] In step 330, the terminal may perform a registration (or attach) process to the network using the second SIM. The second SIM refers to a SIM different from the first SIM, and the order or priority of the SIMs may be determined by a user setting, a SIM-specific setting, or information stored in the terminal. The registration request (or attach request) message transmitted by the terminal may include information indicating that the terminal has a capability to support multiple SIMs (multiple SIM (MUSIM) capability indication), and may include a priority of a SIM currently used for registration among various SIMs. In addition, when sending the registration request for the second SIM, the terminal may include a temporary identity (5G-GUTI in the case of 5G, GUTI in the case of 4G) assigned to the first SIM registered through steps 310 and 320.

[0031] The core network, more specifically, an NF (AMF in the case of 5G, MME in the case of 4G) supporting registration and mobility management for the terminal, may process the registration request received from the terminal in step 330. Only when the core network NF (AMF or MME) performing the registration process for the first SIM and the core network NF performing the registration process for the second SIM are the same, can the service and paging process for the first SIM and the second SIM be coordinated. In addition, in order to select the same NF for the first SIM and the second SIM, the terminal may provide information when making a registration request for the second SIM. In this case, the terminal may transmit an identifier for the core network NF while establishing a connection (RRC connection) with the base station, or may perform redirection when the core network NF needs to be changed using a temporary identifier for the first SIM transmitted to the core network NF during the registration process.

[0032] In step 340, the core network NF may receive subscription information related to the SIM for which the registration request has been received from an NF (UDM in the case of 5G, HSS in the case of 4G) storing the subscription information. The subscription information may include whether or not a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the subscriber, and if the multiple SIM operation is permitted for the SIM, may include information related to SIMs that can be connected simultaneously with the SIM. The subscription information may also include a connection priority related to the SIM. The AMF or MME may process the registration request related to the terminal and SIM by using the request from the terminal and the subscription information. At this time, a connection priority related to the SIM is determined, and one or more of the connection priority received from the terminal or the connection priority included in the subscription information may be considered. Although omitted in Fig. 3, the AMF or MME may transmit information including whether the network also supports a multiple SIM operation or whether the terminal is allowed to operate multiple SIMs in a registration accept (or attach accept) message to the terminal. Also, the AMF or MME may transmit information including the number of SIMs currently registered in the network at the same time in the registration accept message to the terminal. Also, the connection priority determined for the SIM may be included in the registration accept message.

[0033] Also, in step 350, the core network NF may store priority information related to the SIM from the received subscription information. The terminal and the network have information that two or more SIMs are registered in the network, and may know the connection priority of each SIM. Thereafter, in step 360, the terminal and the network may process traffic or signaling in consideration of the connection priority of each SIM and the operation state of each SIM (active / inactive or RRC connected / idle state, etc.). For example, when data is being transmitted / received for the first SIM, but traffic occurs for the second SIM and paging must be processed, if the priority of the second SIM that sends the paging is low, the paging transmission of the second SIM may be delayed until the data transmission of the first SIM is completed. Alternatively, if the priority of the second SIM that sends the paging is high, the data transmission of the first SIM may be interrupted (RRC disconnected) and the second SIM may send the paging first. For convenience of explanation, the priority order between the first SIM and the second SIM has been described, but the operations of the first SIM and the second SIM are not limited to the above example, and it goes without saying that the above operations can be performed for two or more SIMs. It also goes without saying that the terminal and the network can perform the above operations by considering the priority order not only for paging but also for SR (scheduling request).

[0034] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining a method for determining a priority among multiple SIMs during generation of a protocol data unit (PDU) session according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 4, instead of determining the priority during the registration process for each SIM, the priority among multiple SIMs can be determined during the process of creating a PDU session (or PDN connection).

[0036] In step 410, the terminal may transmit a session (PDU session or PDN connection) creation request to the network using the first SIM. At this time, the order and priority of the sessions to be created may be determined using a user setting, a DNN (data network name), a SIM-specific setting, or information stored in the terminal. The session creation request message transmitted by the terminal may include information indicating that the terminal has the capability of supporting multiple SIMs (MUSIM capability indication), and may include a target DNN (APN in the case of a 4G network) and a connection priority of the currently requested session.

[0037] In step 420, the core network, more specifically, an NF (SMF in the case of 5G, MME in the case of 4G) supporting session management related to the terminal, may process the registration request received from the terminal, and if subscription information needs to be received during the processing of the registration request, may receive subscription information related to the SIM from the NF (UDM in the case of 5G, HSS in the case of 4G). The subscription information related to the SIM may include whether or not a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the subscriber, and if the multiple SIM operation is permitted, may include information related to SIMs that can be connected simultaneously with the SIM. In addition, the subscription information related to the SIM may include a connection priority related to the SIM or session. The SMF or MME may process the session creation process using the terminal request and the subscription information. At this time, a connection priority for the corresponding session is determined, and in order to determine the connection priority for the corresponding session, one or more of the connection priority received from the terminal, the connection priority of the subscriber (SIM) included in the subscription information, and the connection priority of the session (DNN / APN) included in the subscription information may be considered. Although omitted in FIG. 4, the SMF or MME may transmit to the terminal a session creation accept message including information regarding whether a multiple SIM operation is supported in the network or whether a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the corresponding terminal. In addition, the connection priority determined for the corresponding session may be included in the session creation accept message. In addition, the SMF or MMF may transmit the above information to other NFs (AMF or UPF in the case of SMF, SGW in the case of MME).

[0038] In step 430, the terminal may transmit a session (PDU session or PDN connection) generation request to the network using the second SIM. At this time, the order and priority of the sessions to be generated may be determined using a user setting, a DNN, a setting for each SIM, or information stored in the terminal. In addition, the information of the session requested in step 430 (target DNN / APN, etc.) may be set to be different from the information used in the above-mentioned steps 410 and 420. The session generation request message transmitted by the terminal may include information (MUSIM capability indication) indicating that the terminal has the capability of supporting multiple SIMs, and may include a target DNN and a connection priority of the currently requested session.

[0039] In step 440, the core network, more specifically, an NF (SMF in the case of 5G, MME in the case of 4G) supporting session management related to the terminal, may process the registration request received from the terminal, and if registration request processing subscription information needs to be received, may receive subscription information related to the SIM from an NF (UDM in the case of 5G, HSS in the case of 4G) storing the subscription information. The subscription information related to the SIM may include whether or not a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the subscriber, and if the multiple SIM operation is permitted, the subscription information related to the SIM may include information related to SIMs that can be connected simultaneously with the SIM. The subscription information related to the SIM may also include a connection priority related to the SIM or session. The SMF or MME may process the session creation process using the terminal request and subscription information. In this process, a connection priority for the corresponding session is determined, and at least one of the connection priority received from the terminal, the connection priority of the subscriber (SIM) included in the subscription information, and the connection priority of the session (DNN / APN) included in the subscription information may be considered. Although omitted in FIG. 4, the SMF or MME may include information including whether multiple SIM operation is supported in the network or whether multiple SIM operation is allowed for the corresponding terminal in a session accept message and transmit the message to the terminal. In addition, the connection priority determined for the corresponding session is also included in the session creation accept message. In addition, the SMF or MMF may transmit the above information to other NFs (AMF or UPF in the case of SMF, SGW in the case of MME).

[0040] In step 450, the terminal and the network have information that two or more SIMs are registered in the network, and can know the connection priority of each session. In step 460, the terminal and the network can process traffic or signaling by considering the connection priority of each session and the operation state of each session of each SIM (active / inactive or RRC connected / idle state, etc.). For example, when data is being transmitted / received for a session of a first SIM, but traffic occurs for a second SIM and paging needs to be processed, if the priority of the session that sends the paging is lower than the priority of the session of the first SIM, it can wait until the data transmission of the first SIM is completed. Alternatively, if the priority of the session that sends the paging is higher, the second SIM can interrupt the data transmission of the first SIM (RRC disconnection) and send the paging first.

[0041] On the other hand, the priority of each SIM or session is also set in the following order: A smaller value indicates a higher priority, and the relative priority can be indicated. 1) SIM or session for emergency service or emergency calls (e.g. DNN / APN for emergency service) 2) SIM or session for voice or video call service (e.g. DNN / APN for IMS) 3) SIM or session for other general data services (e.g. DNN / APN for internet) - If one terminal uses two or more SIMs, the SIMs may be registered with different RATs (radio access technologies), for example, one SIM may be registered with 5G and another SIM may be registered with 4G. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, multiple SIMs can be handled in the following situations: A user sets one SIM to operate with 5G and another SIM to operate with 4G. - Depending on the wireless conditions, one SIM will be switched to the 4G network. - Depending on the service situation, one SIM will be switched to the 4G network (fallback occurs)

[0042] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a terminal control method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] In step 510, the terminal may perform a registration (or attach) process to the network using the first SIM. The order or priority of the SIMs may be determined by a user setting, a setting for each SIM, or information stored in the terminal. A registration request (or attach request) message sent by the terminal may include information indicating that the terminal has a capability to support multiple SIMs (MUSIM capability indication) and may include a priority of the SIM currently used for registration among various SIMs.

[0044] In step 520, the core network, more specifically, the NF (AMF in the case of 5G, MME in the case of 4G) supporting registration and mobility management for the terminal, processes the registration request received from the terminal in step 510, and during this process, may receive subscription information for the SIM for which the registration request has been received from the NF (UDM in the case of 5G, HSS in the case of 4G) storing the subscription information. The subscription information may include whether or not a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the subscriber, and if the multiple SIM operation is permitted, may include information on SIMs that can be connected simultaneously with the SIM. Also, the connection priority for the SIM may be included. Also, the subscription information for the SIM for which the registration request has been received may include whether or not the connection of the wireless network (5G, 4G, 3G, etc.) and the core network (5GC or EPC, etc.) for the SIM is permitted. The AMF or MME may process the registration request for the terminal and SIM using the request from the terminal and the subscription information. During the registration request process, the connection priority for the SIM is determined, and at this time, one or more of the connection priority received from the terminal and the connection priority included in the subscription information may be considered. Although omitted in FIG. 5, the AMF or MME may transmit a registration acceptance (registration or attach accept) message to the terminal, including information including whether multiple SIM operation is supported in the network or whether multiple SIM operation is allowed for the terminal. The connection priority determined for the SIM is also included in the registration acceptance message. In addition, the registration acceptance message may include information regarding a wireless network (5G, 4G, 3G, etc.) and a core network (5GC or EPC, etc.) that can be used by the subscriber to whom the terminal is currently registered (i.e., the subscriber referred to by the SIM).

[0045] The remaining steps of the registration procedure for the first SIM are performed (step 530), and in step 540, the terminal may perform a registration (registration or attach) process to the network using the second SIM. The second SIM refers to a SIM different from the SIM used in step 1, and the order or priority of the SIMs may be determined using a user setting, a SIM-specific setting, or information stored in the terminal. The registration request (registration or attach request) message transmitted by the terminal may include information indicating that the terminal has a capability to support multiple SIMs (MUSIM capability indication) and may include a priority of the SIM currently used for registration among various SIMs. In addition, when transmitting the registration request for the second SIM, the terminal may include a temporary identity (5G-GUTI for 5G, GUTI for 4G) assigned to the first SIM registered through the above steps 510 and 520.

[0046] In step 540, the core network, more specifically, the NF (AMF in the case of 5G, MME in the case of 4G) supporting registration and mobility management for the terminal, can process the registration request received from the terminal. Only when the core network NF (AMF or MME) that performed the registration process for the first SIM and the core network NF that performed the registration process for the second SIM are the same, can the service and paging process for the first SIM and the second SIM be coordinated, and the terminal can provide registration request information for the second SIM so that the same NF is selected for the first SIM and the second SIM. In this case, the terminal can transmit an identifier for the core network NF while setting up a connection (RRC connection) with the base station, or can perform redirection when the core network NF needs to be changed using a temporary identifier for the first SIM that the terminal transmitted to the core network NF during the registration process.

[0047] In step 550, the core network NF may receive subscription information related to the SIM for which the registration request has been received from an NF (UDM for 5G, HSS for 4G) storing the subscription information. The subscription information may include whether or not a multiple SIM operation is permitted for the subscriber, and if the multiple SIM operation is permitted for the SIM, may include information related to SIMs that can be connected simultaneously with the SIM. The subscription information may also include a connection priority for the SIM. It may also include whether or not the SIM is permitted to connect to a wireless network (5G, 4G, 3G, etc.) or a core network (5GC or EPC, etc.).

[0048] In step 560, the AMF or MME may process a registration request for the terminal and SIM using the terminal request and subscription information. During this process, an access priority for the SIM is determined, and at least one of the access priority received from the terminal and the access priority included in the subscription information may be considered. When determining whether or not to allow registration for the terminal, whether or not to redirect the terminal to a wireless network and core network permitted for the terminal, or to another wireless network or NF, the AMF or MME may consider whether or not the registration request for the terminal is generated for two or more SIMs for one terminal. If the terminal registers with two or more SIMs, the AMF or MME processes the terminal so that it can be registered in one core network as much as possible, which is to allow one AMF or MME to handle registration, mobility, and paging management for the terminal, thereby improving service quality and performance.

[0049] In step 570, if the terminal needs to change the radio network or core network to which the terminal currently requests registration, the AMF or MME may change the radio network or core network during the registration process and trigger the second SIM to connect to the same radio network or core network as the first SIM. Although omitted in FIG. 5, in this process, the AMF or MME may transmit to the terminal information including whether the network also supports multiple SIM operation or whether the terminal is allowed to operate multiple SIMs, by including the information in a registration accept (registration or attach accept) message. In addition, the number of SIMs currently registered in the network may be transmitted to the terminal by including the information in the registration accept message. In addition, the connection priority determined for the SIM may be included in the registration accept message. In addition, the registration accept message may include information related to a radio network (5G, 4G, 3G, etc.) and a core network (5GC or EPC, etc.) that the terminal can use for the registration.

[0050] In step 580, the terminal and the network have information that two or more SIMs are registered in the network, and can know the connection priority of each SIM. In addition, the two SIMs of the terminal can be registered and managed in the same core network NF (AMF or MME). Then, when traffic or signaling occurs, the terminal and the network can process the traffic or signaling while considering the connection priority of each SIM and the operation state of each SIM (active / inactive or RRC connected / idle state, etc.). For example, when data is being transmitted or received for a first SIM, but traffic occurs for a second SIM and paging needs to be processed, if the priority of the second SIM that sends the paging is low, it can wait until the data transmission of the first SIM is completed. Or, if the priority of the second SIM that sends the paging is high, the data transmission of the other first SIM can be interrupted (RRC disconnection) and the paging can be sent first.

[0051] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a SIM control method of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] In step 610, while two SIMs of a terminal are registered and serviced in the same core network, a situation may occur in which one SIM is switched to another core network, which may occur during a control process according to the wireless network state or a specific service type (such as fallback for voice / emergency calls).

[0053] In step 620, the AMF or MME may determine whether a change in the system (core network) of one SIM is required to change the system (core network) of another SIM. In this case, the AMF or MME may consider the priority of each SIM or a session created in each SIM.

[0054] In step 630, if it is necessary to manage the second SIM in the same system (core network) as the first SIM, the AMF or MME can trigger a process to change the registered system of the second SIM of the terminal, by sending a command to the base station and the terminal to induce redirection while releasing the RRC connection for the terminal, and adjusting the connection priority (radio access type / frequency of selection priority; RFSP index) for the terminal.

[0055] Meanwhile, in the above steps 620 and 630, the AMF or MME that controls the terminal is also the AMF or MME to which the terminal is already registered.

[0056] In step 640, the second SIM of the terminal may also be registered in the same system (core network) as the first SIM and a process for receiving a service may be performed, which may correspond to a mobility update registration process or a tracking area update process.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a method for controlling services in a situation where multiple SIMs are managed by different systems according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] Specifically, Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining a method of controlling services in a situation where one terminal is used and multiple SIMs are registered in a network, but the multiple SIMs are managed in different systems (core networks).

[0059] In step 710, a first SIM of the terminal may be registered in the system. For ease of explanation, it is assumed that the first SIM is registered in a core network NF1 (e.g., AMF).

[0060] In step 711, the second SIM of the terminal is also registered in another system. For convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the second SIM is registered in a core network NF2 (e.g., MME). It is assumed that the two core networks know that the terminal operates with two SIMs.

[0061] In step 720, the first SIM of the terminal is in a connected state and can send and receive traffic.

[0062] In step 730, a situation may arise in which downlink data or signaling is required for a session on the second SIM of the terminal.

[0063] In step 740, the core network NF2 can determine that the terminal is in an idle state or is operating with two or more SIMs.

[0064] In step 750, the core network NF2 can query the UDM or HSS for information on the core network NF in which the terminal's first SIM is registered to determine whether the terminal's first SIM is currently communicating.

[0065] In step 760, the UDM or HSS may transmit an identifier, such as the name, address or IP address, of the NF, i.e., the AMF or MME, to which the first SIM of the terminal is registered.

[0066] In step 770, the core network NF2 uses the received information to identify the core network NF1 in which the first SIM of the terminal is registered, and can request the core network NF1 to transmit information notifying the terminal that a service has been generated. In determining whether and when to transmit the information, the core network can take into account the service priority of each SIM. In addition, the message transmitted by the core network NF2 includes the entire paging message, not just a simple service generation notification.

[0067] In step 771, the core network NF1 may transmit an alarm to the currently connected terminal (i.e., the first SIM) notifying that a service has occurred for the second SIM using the received information. The alarm or paging transmitted to the terminal may include a service type and a priority for each service.

[0068] In step 772, depending on the terminal implementation and internal structure, the service alarm information received by the first SIM may be transmitted to a control unit that processes the second SIM. In this case, the control unit may determine which SIM to prioritize for transmission / reception for each service of the first SIM and the second SIM, and may take into account the priority information received in step 771.

[0069] In step 780, the terminal may recognize the occurrence of service for the second SIM of the terminal and perform an operation to resume the service.

[0070] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for searching for a system in which a SIM of a terminal is registered according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] In step 810, a first SIM of the terminal may be registered in the system. For ease of explanation, it is assumed that the first SIM is registered in a core network NF1 (e.g., AMF).

[0072] In step 811, another second SIM of the terminal is also registered in another system. For convenience of explanation, it is assumed that the second SIM is registered in a core network NF2 (e.g., MME). When the terminal transmits a registration request message (registration / attach or tracking area update request), the registration request message may include information indicating that the terminal has a capability to support multiple SIMs (MUSIM capability indication) and a temporary identifier (5G-GUTI or GUTI) assigned when the other SIM is registered.

[0073] In step 820, the core network NF2, during the process of processing the registration request of the terminal, recognizes that the terminal operates with multiple SIMs and can identify the core network NF (core network NF1 in this example) in which the first SIM is registered, using the temporary identifier received at the time of the registration request. The core network NF2 must know the subscription identity (SUPI or IMSI) of the first SIM of the terminal in order to find the NF in which the first SIM is registered for traffic processing, service processing, and paging processing. The subscription identity of the first SIM can also be obtained by querying the UDM or HSS for information on the NF in which the other SIM of the terminal is registered, as described above. The UDM or HSS can store the information based on the subscription identity. The core network NF2 can transmit a message (identification request or context request) requesting the subscription identity of the first SIM of the terminal to the identified core network NF (core network NF1 in this example). The message can include the temporary identifier of the other SIM previously received from the terminal. The message may also include a subscription identifier of the second SIM of the terminal to be registered and notify the core network NF2 in advance. The message may also include an indication that the identifier / information request is not for mobility management but for handling multiple SIMs in one terminal.

[0074] In step 830, the core network NF1 may process the received request message. The core network NF1 may search for a subscription identifier in a UE context corresponding to the temporary identifier of the terminal included in the request message. If the request message includes information on a second SIM of the same terminal registered in the core network NF2, the core network NF1 may store the information as another SIM for multiple SIM operation of the terminal.

[0075] In step 840, the core network NF1 may transmit a subscription identifier (SUPI or IMSI) of the terminal registered in the first SIM (i.e., registered in itself) to the core network NF2. The message used here may be an identification message or a context response message. Also, unlike an identification response or a context response generated during general mobility management, the identification message or the context response message is for the purpose of transmitting the subscription identifier, and does not delete the context related to the terminal since services related to the registered terminal must still be provided after the response.

[0076] In step 850, the core network NF2 may store the information of the first SIM of the same terminal received from the core network NF1 as other SIM information for a multi-SIM operation related to the terminal.

[0077] In step 860, the core network NF can know the subscriber identifier of the other SIM for the terminal registered therein. If the core network NF needs to find another core network NF in which the other SIM is registered for traffic processing, paging processing, etc., the core network NF can transmit a request to the UDM / HSS to obtain the identifier, name, and address of the other core network NF in which the SIM is registered, using the stored subscription identifier of the other SIM.

[0078] Meanwhile, in another embodiment of the present disclosure, each core network NF can subscribe to be notified of information related to the change and information of the changed core network NF (identifier, name, address, etc.) when the core network NF in which another SIM is registered is changed. The subscription can be performed by the core network NF using a subscription identifier related to a specific SIM and UDM / HSS, and if the core network NF in which a specific SIM is registered is changed, the UDM / HSS can notify the subscribed core network NF of the information related to the change. Also, the subscription can be performed directly between core network NFs. In this case, when the core network NF is changed (for example, when a terminal is registered in AMF#1 and the registration is changed to AMF#2 due to mobility, etc.), if the MME subscribes to a core network NF change alarm, AMF#1 or AMF#2 can notify the MME that the registration related to the terminal has been changed to AMF#2.

[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the network entity of the present disclosure may include a transceiver 900, a memory 910, and a processor 920. The network entity may be the NSSF, NEF, NRF, PCF, UDM, AF, AUSF, AMF, SMF, SCP, (R)AN, UPF, or DN described in FIG. 1, but for convenience of explanation, they will be collectively referred to as a network entity below. That is, each of the network entities may include a transceiver 900, a memory 910, and a processor 920. The processor 920, the transceiver 900, and the memory 910 of the network entity may operate according to the above-mentioned network entity communication method. However, the components of the network entity are not limited to the above-mentioned examples. For example, the network entity may include more components than the above-mentioned components, or may include fewer components. Moreover, the processor 920, the transceiver 900, and the memory 910 may be embodied in the form of a single chip. Also, the processor 920 may include at least one processor.

[0080] The transceiver 900 is a collective term for a receiver of a network entity and a transmitter of the network entity, and can transmit and receive signals to and from a base station. The signals transmitted to and received from the base station may include control information and data. To this end, the transceiver 900 is also configured with an RF transmitter that up-converts and amplifies the frequency of a signal to be transmitted, and an RF receiver that low-noise amplifies and down-converts the frequency of a signal to be received. However, this is only one embodiment of the transceiver 900, and the components of the transceiver 900 are not limited to an RF transmitter and an RF receiver. The transceiver 900 can also transmit and receive signals to and from other network entities.

[0081] In addition, the transceiver unit 900 can receive a signal via a wireless channel, output the signal to the processor 920, and transmit the signal output from the processor 920 via a wireless channel.

[0082] The memory 910 can store programs and data necessary for the operation of the network entity. The memory 910 can also store control information or data included in signals acquired by the network entity. The memory 910 can be formed of a recording medium such as a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM), and a digital versatile disc (DVD), or a combination of recording media.

[0083] The processor 920 may control a series of processes so that the network entity operates according to the above-described embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the processor 920 may receive control signals and data signals via the transceiver 900, process the received control signals and data signals, and transmit the processed control signals and data signals via the transceiver 900.

[0084] The transceiver 900, the memory 910, and the processor 920 may be electrically connected. For example, the controller 910 may be a circuit, an application-specific circuit, or at least one processor. The operation of the network entity may be realized by providing a memory device storing the program code in any component of the network entity.

[0085] Also, the network entity may be any one of a base station (RAN), an AMF, an SMF, an UPF, an NF, an NEF, an NRF, a CF, an NSSF, an UDM, an AF, an AUSF, an SCP, an UDSF, a context storage, an OAM, an EMS, a configuration server, and an ID management server, and it goes without saying that the network entity is not limited to the above examples.

[0086] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a terminal (UE) according to the present invention.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 10, the terminal of the present disclosure may include a transceiver 1000, a processor 1020, a first SIM 1040, and a second SIM 1060. The processor 1020, the transceiver 1000, the first SIM 1040, and the second SIM 1060 of the terminal may operate according to the above-mentioned terminal communication method. However, the components of the terminal are not limited to the above-mentioned example. For example, the terminal may include more components than the above-mentioned components, or may include fewer components. For example, referring to FIG. 10, only the first SIM 1040 and the second SIM 1060 are disclosed, but the terminal is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that the terminal may further include N SIMs (not shown). Moreover, the processor 1020 and the transceiver 1000 may be embodied in the form of one chip. Also, the processor 1020 may include at least one processor.

[0088] The transceiver 1000 is a collective term for the receiver of the terminal and the transmitter of the terminal, and can transmit and receive signals to and from a base station. The signals transmitted and received to and from the base station may include control information and data. For this purpose, the transceiver 1000 is also composed of an RF transmitter that up-converts and amplifies the frequency of a signal to be transmitted, and an RF receiver that low-noise amplifies a received signal and down-converts the frequency. However, this is only one embodiment of the transceiver 1000, and the components of the transceiver 1000 are not limited to an RF transmitter and an RF receiver.

[0089] In addition, the transceiver unit 1000 can receive a signal via a wireless channel, output the signal to the processor 1020, and transmit the signal output from the processor 1020 via the wireless channel.

[0090] The processor 1020 may control a series of processes so that the terminal operates according to the above-described embodiment of the present disclosure. For example, the processor 1020 may receive control signals and data signals via the transceiver 1000, process the received control signals and data signals, and transmit the processed control signals and data signals via the transceiver 1000.

[0091] The first SIM 1040 and the second SIM 1060 are also connection control modules for connecting to a mobile communication operator network. The processor 1020 can perform a registration process to a predetermined network entity using the first SIM 1040. The processor 1020 can also perform a registration process to a network entity using the second SIM 1060.

[0092] The processor 1020 may use information related to the first SIM 1040 during a registration process related to the second SIM 1060 so that the same NF is selected for the first SIM 1040 and the second SIM 1060. For example, when the registration process of the first SIM 1040 is performed first, the processor 1020 may perform a registration process of the second SIM 1060 based on an identifier assigned to the first SIM 1040.

[0093] The processor 1020 may also store priority information related to the first SIM 1040 and the second SIM 1060 based on the subscription information received from the network entity. The processor 1020 may also perform operations of the first SIM 1040 and the second SIM 1060 based on the priority information. For example, the processor 1020 may control data transmission of the first SIM 1040 and paging of the second SIM 1060 based on the priority.

[0094] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation of a network entity according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0095] In step 1110, the network entity may receive a registration request message related to a plurality of SIMs from the terminal. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the network entity may be an MME, which is a 4G core network, or an AMF, which is a 5G core network. In addition, the network entity may receive a first registration request message related to a first SIM and a second registration request message related to a second SIM from the plurality of SIMs. In step 1120, the network entity may perform a registration procedure for the plurality of SIMs based on the registration request message. The network entity may perform a registration procedure related to the first SIM based on the first registration request message and may perform a registration procedure related to the second SIM based on the second registration request message. In this case, the second registration request message may include identification information related to the first SIM. The network entity may control the second SIM to be registered with the network entity to which the first SIM is registered based on the identification information for the first SIM.

[0096] In step 1130, the network entity may determine a priority among the registered SIMs. The network entity may determine a priority among the SIMs based on subscription information related to the SIMs received from another network entity (e.g., UDM or HSS), and may control traffic based on the determined priority.

[0097] In step 1140, the network entity may transmit a registration accept message including information related to the priority to the terminal, and the terminal may know the priority of the multiple SIMs based on the registration accept message.

[0098] It should be noted that the configuration diagrams, control / data signal transmission method diagrams, operation procedure diagrams, and configuration diagrams illustrated in the above-mentioned Figures 1 to 11 are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In other words, all components, entities, or operation steps illustrated in Figures 1 to 11 should not be construed as essential components for carrying out the disclosure, and the disclosure may be embodied even if only some components are included without losing the essence of the disclosure.

[0099] The methods according to the embodiments described in the claims or specification of the present disclosure may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0100] When embodied in software, a computer-readable recording medium storing one or more programs (software modules) may be provided. The one or more programs stored in the computer-readable recording medium are configured for execution by one or more processors in an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions for causing the electronic device to execute a method according to an embodiment described in the claims or specification of the present disclosure.

[0101] Such programs (software modules, software) may be stored in non-volatile memory, including RAM (flash memory), ROM, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic disk storage device, CD-ROM, DVD, other forms of optical storage devices, or magnetic cassettes, or in a memory consisting of any or all of these combinations. Also, each of these memory configurations may include multiple copies.

[0102] The program may also be stored in an attachable storage device that can be accessed via a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to a device that performs an embodiment of the present disclosure via an external port. Also, a separate storage device on the communication network may be connected to a device that performs an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0103] In the specific embodiments of the present disclosure described above, the components included in the disclosure are expressed in the singular or plural form according to the specific embodiments presented. However, the expressions in the singular or plural form are selected for the convenience of explanation according to the presented situation, and the present disclosure is not limited to the singular or plural form, and even if a component is expressed in the plural form, it may be composed of the singular form, or even if a component is expressed in the singular form, it may be composed of the plural form.

[0104] In the detailed description of the present disclosure, specific embodiments have been described, but it goes without saying that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments, but is defined not only by the scope of the claims, but also by equivalents to the scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0105] 900 Transmitter / Receiver 910 Memory 920 Processor 1000 Transmitter / Receiver 1020 Processor 1040 1st SIM 1060 2nd SIM

Claims

1. A method for operating a terminal in a wireless communication system, comprising: sending a first registration request message to a network entity using a first SIM (subscription identity module), the first registration request message including MUSIM capability information indicating that the terminal is capable of supporting MUSIM (multiple SIM) and a first service priority of the first SIM; receiving a first registration accept message from the network entity in response to the first registration request message, the first registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported in the network entity; sending a second registration request message to the network entity using a second SIM, the second registration request message including the MUSIM capability information and a second service priority of the second SIM; receiving a second registration accept message from the network entity in response to the second registration request message, the second registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported by the network entity; The method, wherein the network entity is an access and mobility management function (AMF) or a mobility management entity (MME).

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of disconnecting a radio resource control (RRC) connection associated with the first SIM when paging associated with the second SIM needs to be processed.

3. The first SIM is configured for IMS (IP (internet protocol) multimedia subsystem) voice services, and the second SIM is configured for data services; The method of claim 1 , wherein the first service priority of the first SIM takes precedence over the second service priority of the second SIM.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: processing paging associated with the first SIM and the second SIM based on a paging priority.

5. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein processing the paging includes identifying that paging associated with an IMS service has priority over paging associated with other data services.

6. In a terminal in a wireless communication system, A transmitting / receiving unit; at least one processor coupled to the transceiver; The at least one processor Send a first registration request message to a network entity using a first SIM (subscription identity module), the first registration request message including MUSIM capability information indicating that the terminal is capable of supporting MUSIM (multiple SIM) and a first service priority of the first SIM; receiving a first registration accept message from the network entity in response to the first registration request message, the first registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported in the network entity; sending a second registration request message to the network entity using a second SIM, the second registration request message including the MUSIM capability information and a second service priority of the second SIM; receiving a second registration accept message from the network entity in response to the second registration request message, the second registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported by the network entity; The terminal, wherein the network entity is an access and mobility management function (AMF) or a mobility management entity (MME).

7. The terminal of claim 6 , wherein the at least one processor is configured to release a radio resource control (RRC) connection associated with a first SIM when a paging associated with the second SIM needs to be processed.

8. the at least one processor configures the first SIM for IP (internet protocol) multimedia subsystem (IMS) voice services and configures the second SIM for data services; 7. The terminal of claim 6, wherein the first service priority of the first SIM is prioritized over the second service priority of the second SIM.

9. The terminal of claim 6 , wherein the at least one processor processes paging associated with the first SIM and the second SIM based on a paging priority.

10. 10. The terminal of claim 9, wherein the at least one processor is configured to identify that paging associated with an IMS service has priority over paging associated with other data services.

11. A method of operation of a network entity in a wireless communication system, comprising: receiving a first registration request message from a terminal using a first SIM (subscription identity module), the first registration request message including MUSIM capability information indicating that the terminal is capable of supporting MUSIM (multiple SIM) and a first service priority of the first SIM; sending a first registration accept message to the terminal in response to the first registration request message, the first registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported in the network entity; receiving a second registration request message from the terminal using a second SIM, the second registration request message including the MUSIM capability information and a second service priority of the second SIM; transmitting a second registration accept message to the terminal in response to the second registration request message, the second registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported by the network entity; The method, wherein the network entity is an access and mobility management function (AMF) or a mobility management entity (MME).

12. The method of claim 11, wherein a radio resource control (RRC) connection associated with the first SIM is released when paging associated with the second SIM needs to be processed.

13. The first SIM is configured for IMS (IP (internet protocol) multimedia subsystem) voice services, and the second SIM is configured for data services; The method of claim 11 , wherein the first service priority of the first SIM takes precedence over the second service priority of the second SIM.

14. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: processing paging associated with the first SIM and the second SIM based on a paging priority.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, wherein processing the paging includes identifying that paging associated with an IMS service has priority over paging associated with other data services.

16. A network entity in a wireless communication system, A transmitting / receiving unit; at least one processor coupled to the transceiver; The at least one processor Receive a first registration request message from a terminal using a first SIM (subscription identity module), the first registration request message including MUSIM capability information indicating that the terminal is capable of supporting MUSIM (multiple SIM) and a first service priority of the first SIM; sending a first registration accept message to the terminal in response to the first registration request message, the first registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported in the network entity; receiving a second registration request message from the terminal using a second SIM, the second registration request message including the MUSIM capability information and a second service priority of the second SIM; sending a second registration accept message to the terminal in response to the second registration request message, the second registration accept message indicating whether the MUSIM is supported by the network entity; The network entity is an access and mobility management function (AMF) or a mobility management entity (MME).

17. 17. The network entity of claim 16, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to release a radio resource control (RRC) connection associated with the first SIM when a paging associated with the second SIM needs to be processed.

18. The at least one processor configuring the first SIM for IP (internet protocol) multimedia subsystem (IMS) voice services and the second SIM for data services; 17. The network entity of claim 16, wherein the first service priority of the first SIM is prioritized over the second service priority of the second SIM.

19. The network entity of claim 16, wherein the at least one processor processes paging for the first SIM and the second SIM based on a paging priority.

20. 20. The network entity of claim 19, wherein the at least one processor identifies that paging associated with an IMS service has priority over paging associated with other data services.

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