Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of communications, and provides a communication method and apparatus. The method comprises: an access network device receives first information from a core network device, the access network device covering a first region, the first information being used for triggering the access network device to page a terminal device, the terminal device being located in a second region, and the first region being different from the second region; and, on the basis of the first information, the access network device pages the terminal device when the access network device covers the second region. In embodiments of the present application, the access network device can firstly receive information from the core network device when the core network device and the terminal device are located in different regions, and then the access network device pages the terminal device when the access network device covers the region in which the terminal device is located, thereby achieving paging of the terminal device by the access network device. Moreover, the above-mentioned scheme can reduce signaling overhead.

Description

Communication method and device

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on November 3, 2023, with application number 202311464456.9 and application name “Communication Method and Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of communication technology, and more particularly, to a communication method and apparatus. Background Art

[0003] In a non-terrestrial network (NTN) system, satellites can communicate with core network equipment through NTN gateways. Satellites can also communicate with terminal devices. Satellites function as access network devices. The link between the gateway and satellite is the feeder link, and the link between the satellite and terminal devices is the service link.

[0004] After receiving a paging request from a core network device, the access network device will page the terminal device. However, the area where the terminal device to be paged is located may be different from the area where the core network device is located. If the access network device cannot page the terminal device before the feeder link is disconnected, the access network device will fail the paging.

[0005] Therefore, how to enable the access network device to implement paging of the terminal device is an urgent problem to be solved.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The present application provides a communication method and apparatus that enable an access network device to implement paging of a terminal device.

[0008] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided. The method can be executed by an access network device, or by a component (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system) in the access network device, or by a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the access network device. The method includes: the access network device receives first information from a core network device, wherein the access network device covers a first area, and the first information is used to trigger the access network device to page a terminal device, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; and the access network device, based on the first information, pages the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area.

[0009] It should be noted that the access network device in the first aspect and any implementation of the first aspect described above can be considered the first access network device in the embodiments of the present application. The above solution can also be referred to as a store and forward (S&F) operation. The S&F operation is different from the solution in the related art where the access network device directly performs paging after receiving the first information.

[0010] Through the method in the above embodiment, the access network device receives the first information for triggering paging of the terminal device from the core network device when it does not cover the terminal device, and pages the terminal device when it covers the terminal device, thereby avoiding the access network device from continuously paging the terminal device after receiving the first information, which not only improves the paging success rate but also saves signaling overhead.

[0011] In combination with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

[0012] Based on the terminal device's identifier, the access network device can accurately page the terminal device to be paged. Based on the identifier of the second area, the first access network device can accurately page the terminal device in the area where the terminal device is located, without paging it in other areas. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0013] In combination with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: after the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area, the access network device sends first data to the terminal device, and the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device that the access network device receives before the paging of the terminal device is completed.

[0014] Based on the above solution, the core network device can send downlink data to be sent to the terminal device to the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed, which helps the access network device to send the downlink data to the terminal device as soon as possible after the paging of the terminal device is completed, thereby improving the data transmission efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device.

[0015] In combination with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: the access network device receives second data from the terminal device; and the access network device sends the second data to the core network device when the access network device covers the first area.

[0016] Based on the above solution, the access network device can receive uplink data from the terminal device, and when the access network device covers the first area, transmit the uplink data to the core network device. The above solution enables the terminal device to perform uplink transmission through the access network device.

[0017] In combination with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the second area is a tracking area (TA), a cell, or a geographical area.

[0018] Based on the above solution, the second area can be a TA or an area with a smaller granularity than a TA. Thus, when the access network device covers the second area, the access network device is more likely to successfully page the terminal device due to the smaller granularity of the second area. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0019] In combination with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the method also includes: the access network device receives second information from the core network device, and the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the access network device covers the second area; wherein, the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area, including: the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information and the second information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0020] Based on the above solution, the first access network device can perform the S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby realizing the paging of the terminal device by the first access network device and saving signaling overhead.

[0021] In combination with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the method also includes: the access network device determines, based on third information, to page the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area, wherein the third information includes information of the second area; wherein, the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area, including: the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information and the third information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0022] Based on the above solution, the access network device can determine whether to perform the S&F operation based on the information of the second area. The above solution enables the access network device to perform the S&F operation even when it is unable to directly page the terminal device, thereby successfully enabling the first access network device to page the terminal device and saving signaling overhead.

[0023] In combination with the first aspect, in certain implementations of the first aspect, the method also includes: the access network device receives fourth information from the core network device, the fourth information being used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the access network device on the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area; the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area, including: the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information and the fourth information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0024] Based on the above solution, the core network device can instruct the access network device to page the terminal device a certain number of times and / or a certain duration of paging when the access network device covers the second area. In this way, the access network device can page the terminal device based on the number of paging times and / or the paging duration, thereby improving the success rate of the access network device's paging of the terminal device.

[0025] In combination with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: the access network device sends fifth information to the core network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the access network device has a store-and-forward capability.

[0026] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report information to the core network device indicating that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. In this way, when the core network device selects an access network device to perform an S&F operation, it can consider whether the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities, thereby avoiding selecting an access network device that does not have storage and forwarding capabilities to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device in paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0027] In combination with the first aspect, in some implementations of the first aspect, the method further includes: the access network device sends sixth information to the core network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate the storage space of the access network device.

[0028] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report the storage space of the access network device to the core network device. In this way, when the core network device selects the access network device to perform the S&F operation, it can consider the storage space of the access network device, avoid selecting the access network device with insufficient storage space to perform the S&F operation, and improve the success rate of the core network device to paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0029] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided. The method can be executed by a core network device, or by a component (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system) in the core network device, or by a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the core network device functions. The method includes: the core network device sends first information to a first access network device, where the first access network device currently covers a first area; the first information is used to trigger the first access network device to page a terminal device, where the terminal device is located in a second area, wherein the first information is used by the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0030] Optionally, the core network device is an access management network element, for example, an access and mobility management function (AMF) or a mobility management entity (MME).

[0031] Through the method in the above embodiment, the access network device receives the first information for triggering paging of the terminal device from the core network device when it does not cover the terminal device, and pages the terminal device when it covers the terminal device, thereby avoiding the access network device from continuously paging the terminal device after receiving the first information, which not only improves the paging success rate but also saves signaling overhead.

[0032] In combination with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

[0033] Based on the terminal device's identifier, the first access network device can accurately page the terminal device to be paged. Based on the second area's identifier, the first access network device can accurately page the terminal device in the area where the terminal device is located, without paging it in other areas. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0034] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the core network device sends first data to the first access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed, wherein the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device.

[0035] Based on the above solution, the core network device can send downlink data to be sent to the terminal device to the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed, which helps the access network device to send the downlink data to the terminal device as soon as possible after the paging of the terminal device is completed, thereby improving the data transmission efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device.

[0036] In combination with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the core network device receiving second data from the first access network device.

[0037] Based on the above solution, the access network device can receive uplink data from the terminal device, and when the access network device covers the first area, transmit the uplink data to the core network device. The above solution enables the terminal device to perform uplink transmission through the access network device.

[0038] In combination with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the second area is a TA, a cell, or a geographical area.

[0039] Based on the above solution, the second area can be a TA or an area with a smaller granularity than a TA. Thus, when the first access network device covers the second area, the first access network device is more likely to successfully page the terminal device due to the smaller granularity of the second area. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0040] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the core network device sends second information to the first access network device, and the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0041] Based on the above solution, the core network device can, based on the terminal device's configuration information, instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation during interaction with the terminal device. This solution enables the first access network device to perform an S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby enabling the first access network device to paging the terminal device and saving signaling overhead.

[0042] In combination with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device based on the configuration information of the terminal device.

[0043] Based on the above solution, the core network device can, based on the terminal device's configuration information, instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation during interaction with the terminal device. This solution enables the first access network device to perform an S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby enabling the first access network device to paging the terminal device and saving signaling overhead.

[0044] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, before the core network device sends the first information to the first access network device within the first time period, the method also includes: the core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device based on the ephemeris information.

[0045] Based on the above solution, the core network device can determine the first access network device based on the ephemeris information, and the first access network device can cover the second area. Therefore, the above solution enables the first access network device to paging the terminal device in the second area and saves signaling overhead.

[0046] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device, including: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, that the duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to a duration threshold; and the core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0047] Based on the above solution, the core network device can determine the access network device that takes a shorter time to move from the first area to the second area based on the ephemeris information and perform paging on the terminal device. The above solution can improve the communication efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device.

[0048] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, the duration threshold is the duration for the second access network device to move from the first area to the second area, wherein the second access network device is one of multiple access network devices whose current coverage area is the first area, and the first access network device is one of the multiple access network devices; or, the duration threshold is the duration for the first access network device to retain the first information.

[0049] Based on the above solution, the core network device can select, from among multiple access network devices, an access network device that can more quickly cover the second area to perform the S&F operation, thereby improving the communication efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device. Alternatively, the core network device can select, from among multiple access network devices, an access network device that can retain the first information to the access network device that pages the terminal device, thereby enabling the access network device to paging the terminal device.

[0050] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, the method also includes: the core network device sends fourth information to the first access network device, and the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the first access network device on the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0051] Based on the above solution, the core network device can instruct the access network device to page the terminal device a certain number of times and / or a certain duration of paging when the access network device covers the second area. In this way, the access network device can page the terminal device based on the number of paging times and / or the paging duration, thereby improving the success rate of the access network device's paging of the terminal device.

[0052] In combination with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the core network device receives fifth information from the first access network device, and the fifth information is used to indicate that the first access network device has a store-and-forward capability.

[0053] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report information to the core network device indicating that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. In this way, when the core network device selects an access network device to perform an S&F operation, it can consider whether the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities, thereby avoiding selecting an access network device that does not have storage and forwarding capabilities to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device in paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0054] In combination with the second aspect, in some implementations of the second aspect, the method further includes: the core network device receives sixth information from the first access network device, and the sixth information is used to indicate the storage space of the first access network device.

[0055] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report the storage space of the access network device to the core network device. In this way, when the core network device selects the access network device to perform the S&F operation, it can consider the storage space of the access network device, avoid selecting the access network device with insufficient storage space to perform the S&F operation, and improve the success rate of the core network device to paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0056] In combination with the second aspect, in certain implementations of the second aspect, before the core network device sends the first information to the first access network device, the method also includes: the core network device determines that the storage space can store data to be sent to the terminal device.

[0057] Based on the above solution, if the core network device determines that the storage space of the access network device is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device pages the terminal device through the access network device. This solution prevents the core network device from selecting an access network device that is unable to perform an S&F operation to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0058] In a third aspect, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by an access network device, or by a component in the access network device (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or by a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the access network device. The method includes: the access network device receives first data from a core network device, wherein the first data is data received by the access network device before paging of the terminal device is completed and is to be sent to the terminal device, the access network device covers a first area, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; after the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area, the access network device sends the first data to the terminal device.

[0059] It should be noted that the access network device in the above-mentioned third aspect and any implementation of the third aspect can be regarded as the first access network device in the embodiment of the present application.

[0060] Through the method in the above embodiment, the access network device receives the first information for triggering paging of the terminal device from the core network device when it does not cover the terminal device, and pages the terminal device when it covers the terminal device, thereby avoiding the access network device from continuously paging the terminal device after receiving the first information, which not only improves the paging success rate but also saves signaling overhead.

[0061] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method also includes: the access network device receives first information from the core network device, wherein the first information is used to trigger the access network device to page the terminal device; the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0062] In the embodiment of the present application, when the core network device and the terminal device are located in different areas, the access network device can first receive information from the core network device and then page the terminal device if it covers the area where the terminal device is located, thereby realizing the access network device paging the terminal device. In addition, the above solution can save signaling overhead.

[0063] In combination with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

[0064] Based on the terminal device's identifier, the access network device can accurately page the terminal device to be paged. Based on the identifier of the second area, the first access network device can accurately page the terminal device in the area where the terminal device is located, without paging it in other areas. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0065] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: the access network device receives second data from the terminal device; and the access network device sends the second data to the core network device when the access network device covers the first area.

[0066] Based on the above solution, the access network device can receive uplink data from the terminal device, and when the access network device covers the first area, transmit the uplink data to the core network device. The above solution enables the terminal device to perform uplink transmission through the access network device.

[0067] In combination with the third aspect, in some implementations of the third aspect, the second area is a TA, a cell, or a geographical area.

[0068] Based on the above solution, the second area can be a TA or an area with a smaller granularity than a TA. Thus, when the access network device covers the second area, the access network device is more likely to successfully page the terminal device due to the smaller granularity of the second area. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0069] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method also includes: the access network device receives second information from the core network device, and the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the access network device covers the second area; wherein, the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area, including: the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information and the second information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0070] Based on the above solution, the first access network device can perform the S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby realizing the paging of the terminal device by the first access network device and saving signaling overhead.

[0071] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method also includes: the access network device determines, based on the third information, to page the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area, wherein the third information includes information of the second area; wherein, the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area, including: the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information and the third information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0072] Based on the above solution, the first access network device can determine whether to perform the S&F operation based on the information of the second area. The above solution enables the first access network device to perform the S&F operation even if it cannot directly page the terminal device, thereby successfully implementing the paging of the terminal device by the first access network device and saving signaling overhead.

[0073] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method also includes: the access network device receives fourth information from the core network device, the fourth information being used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the access network device on the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area; the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area, including: the access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information and the fourth information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0074] Based on the above solution, the core network device can instruct the access network device to page the terminal device a certain number of times and / or a certain duration of paging when the access network device covers the second area. In this way, the access network device can page the terminal device based on the number of paging times and / or the paging duration, thereby improving the success rate of the access network device's paging of the terminal device.

[0075] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: the access network device sends fifth information to the core network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the access network device has a store-and-forward capability.

[0076] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report information to the core network device indicating that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. In this way, when the core network device selects an access network device to perform an S&F operation, it can consider whether the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities, thereby avoiding selecting an access network device that does not have storage and forwarding capabilities to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device in paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0077] In combination with the third aspect, in certain implementations of the third aspect, the method further includes: the access network device sends sixth information to the core network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate the storage space of the access network device.

[0078] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report the storage space of the access network device to the core network device. In this way, when the core network device selects the access network device to perform the S&F operation, it can consider the storage space of the access network device, avoid selecting the access network device with insufficient storage space to perform the S&F operation, and improve the success rate of the core network device to paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0079] In a fourth aspect, a communication method is provided, which can be executed by a core network device, or by a component in the core network device (e.g., a processor, chip, or chip system), or by a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the core network device functions. The method includes: before the paging of the terminal device is completed, the core network device sends first data to a first access network device, wherein the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device, the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is a first area, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; wherein the first data is used by the first access network device to send to the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0080] Through the method in the above embodiment, the access network device receives the first information for triggering paging of the terminal device from the core network device when it does not cover the terminal device, and pages the terminal device when it covers the terminal device, thereby avoiding the access network device from continuously paging the terminal device after receiving the first information, which not only improves the paging success rate but also saves signaling overhead.

[0081] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method also includes: the core network device sends first information to the first access network device, and the first information is used to trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device, wherein the first information is used by the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0082] In the embodiment of the present application, when the core network device and the terminal device are located in different areas, the first access network device can first receive information from the core network device and then page the terminal device if it covers the area where the terminal device is located, thereby enabling the access network device to paging the terminal device. In addition, the above solution can save signaling overhead.

[0083] In combination with the fourth aspect, in some implementations of the fourth aspect, the first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

[0084] Based on the terminal device's identifier, the first access network device can accurately page the terminal device to be paged. Based on the second area's identifier, the first access network device can accurately page the terminal device in the area where the terminal device is located, without paging it in other areas. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0085] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: the core network device receiving second data from the first access network device.

[0086] Based on the above solution, the access network device can receive uplink data from the terminal device, and when the access network device covers the first area, transmit the uplink data to the core network device. The above solution enables the terminal device to perform uplink transmission through the access network device.

[0087] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the second area is a TA, a cell, or a geographical area.

[0088] Based on the above solution, the second area can be a TA or an area with a smaller granularity than a TA. Thus, when the first access network device covers the second area, the first access network device is more likely to successfully page the terminal device due to the smaller granularity of the second area. Therefore, the above solution improves the success rate of paging terminal devices.

[0089] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: the core network device sends second information to the first access network device, and the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0090] Based on the above solution, the first access network device can perform the S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby realizing the paging of the terminal device by the first access network device and saving signaling overhead.

[0091] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: the core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device based on the configuration information of the terminal device.

[0092] Based on the above solution, the core network device can, based on the terminal device's configuration information, instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation during interaction with the terminal device. This solution enables the first access network device to perform an S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby enabling the first access network device to paging the terminal device and saving signaling overhead.

[0093] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, before the core network device sends the first data to the first access network device, the method also includes: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0094] Based on the above solution, the core network device can determine the first access network device based on the ephemeris information, and the first access network device can cover the second area. Therefore, the above solution enables the first access network device to paging the terminal device in the second area and saves signaling overhead.

[0095] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device, including: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, that the duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to a duration threshold; and the core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0096] Based on the above solution, the core network device can determine the access network device that takes a shorter time to move from the first area to the second area based on the ephemeris information and perform paging on the terminal device. The above solution can improve the communication efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device.

[0097] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the duration threshold is the duration for the second access network device to move from the first area to the second area, wherein the second access network device is one of multiple access network devices whose current coverage area is the first area, and the first access network device is one of the multiple access network devices; or, the duration threshold is the duration for the first access network device to retain the first data.

[0098] Based on the above solution, the core network device can select, from among multiple access network devices, an access network device that can more quickly cover the second area to perform the S&F operation, thereby improving the communication efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device. Alternatively, the core network device can select, from among multiple access network devices, an access network device that can retain the first information to the access network device that pages the terminal device, thereby enabling the access network device to paging the terminal device.

[0099] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method also includes: the core network device sends fourth information to the first access network device, and the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the first access network device on the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0100] Based on the above solution, the core network device can instruct the access network device to page the terminal device a certain number of times and / or a certain duration of paging when the access network device covers the second area. In this way, the access network device can page the terminal device based on the number of paging times and / or the paging duration, thereby improving the success rate of the access network device's paging of the terminal device.

[0101] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: the core network device receives fifth information from the first access network device, and the fifth information is used to indicate that the first access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities.

[0102] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report information to the core network device indicating that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. In this way, when the core network device selects an access network device to perform an S&F operation, it can consider whether the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities, thereby avoiding selecting an access network device that does not have storage and forwarding capabilities to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device in paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0103] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, the method further includes: the core network device receives sixth information from the first access network device, and the sixth information is used to indicate the storage space of the first access network device.

[0104] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report the storage space of the access network device to the core network device. In this way, when the core network device selects the access network device to perform the S&F operation, it can consider the storage space of the access network device, avoid selecting the access network device with insufficient storage space to perform the S&F operation, and improve the success rate of the core network device to paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0105] In combination with the fourth aspect, in certain implementations of the fourth aspect, before the core network device sends the first data to the first access network device, the method also includes: the core network device determines that the storage space can store the data to be sent to the terminal device.

[0106] Based on the above solution, if the core network device determines that the storage space of the access network device is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device pages the terminal device through the access network device. This solution prevents the core network device from selecting an access network device that is unable to perform an S&F operation to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0107] In a fifth aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising a processor, wherein the processor is configured to enable the communication device to execute the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect, or enable the communication device to execute the first aspect and any possible method of the second aspect, by executing a computer program or instruction, or by processing a circuit.

[0108] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a memory for storing the computer program or instruction. Further, the processor is specifically configured to call and execute the computer program or computer instruction stored in the memory, so that the processor implements any one of the implementations of the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0109] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a transceiver (also referred to as a communication interface), the transceiver being configured to input and / or output signals via the communication interface, and the processor being configured to control the transceiver to transmit and receive signals.

[0110] In the sixth aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising a processing circuit (also referred to as a processor) and an input / output interface (also referred to as an interface circuit), the input / output interface being used to input and / or output signals, the processing circuit being used to execute the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect; or the processing circuit being used to execute the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect.

[0111] In one possible implementation, the processor is configured to communicate with other devices via an interface circuit and execute any one of the implementations in the first aspect or any one of the implementations in the second aspect.

[0112] In a seventh aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device may be a first access network device, or a device or module for performing the functions of the first access network device; the communication device may be a core network device, or a device or module for performing the functions of the core network device.

[0113] In one possible implementation, the communication device may include a module or unit corresponding to each of the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the first aspect. The module or unit may be a hardware circuit, software, or a combination of hardware circuit and software.

[0114] In another possible implementation, the communication device may include a module or unit corresponding to each of the methods / operations / steps / actions described in the second aspect. The module or unit may be a hardware circuit, software, or a combination of hardware circuit and software.

[0115] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program or instruction is stored. When the computer program or the instruction is run on a computer, the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect are executed; or, the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect are executed.

[0116] In the ninth aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program or instructions, which, when run on a computer, causes the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect to be executed; or causes the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect to be executed.

[0117] In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising a processor connected to a memory and configured to call a program stored in the memory to execute any possible method of the first aspect or any possible method of the second aspect. The memory may be located within or outside the communication device. The processor may include one or more processors.

[0118] In one implementation, the communication device of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and tenth aspects may be a chip or a chip system.

[0119] In an eleventh aspect, a chip device is provided, comprising a processor for calling a computer program or computer instruction in a memory so that the processor executes any one of the implementations of the first aspect or any one of the implementations of the second aspect.

[0120] Optionally, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0121] In the twelfth aspect, a communication system is provided, which includes a first access network device and a core network device; the first access network device is used to execute the method shown in the first aspect, and the core network device is used to execute the method shown in the second aspect.

[0122] The description of the beneficial effects of any of the fifth to twelfth aspects, etc. can refer to the description of the beneficial effects of the first, second, third or fourth aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0123] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a network architecture of a communication system applicable to an embodiment of the present application.

[0124] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a network architecture of another communication system applicable to an embodiment of the present application.

[0125] FIG3 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0126] FIG4 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0127] FIG5 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0128] FIG6 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0129] FIG7 is a schematic flowchart of a method for determining a first access network device provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0130] FIG8 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

[0131] FIG9 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0132] FIG10 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0133] FIG11 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0134] FIG12 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0135] The technical solution in this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0136] The technical solution provided by this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as the fifth generation (5 th generation, 5G) or new radio (NR) system, long term evolution (LTE) system, LTE frequency division duplex (FDD) system, LTE time division duplex (TDD) system, etc. The technical solution provided by this application can also be applied to future communication systems, such as the sixth generation (6 thgeneration, 6G) mobile communication system. The technical solution provided in this application can also be applied to non-terrestrial network (NTN) systems, device-to-device (D2D) communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, machine type communication (MTC), and Internet of Things (IoT) communication systems or other communication systems. The NTN system can also be called a satellite communication system. In addition, the non-terrestrial communication system can also include a high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication system.

[0137] An NTN system can refer to a communication network that uses aerial or space platforms as transmission equipment relay nodes or base stations. Aerial or space platforms include but are not limited to drones, hot air balloons, airplanes, satellites, etc.

[0138] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of the network architecture of a communication system applicable to an embodiment of the present application. The network architecture includes terminal devices, access network devices, access management network elements, session management network elements, user plane network elements, policy control network elements, network slice selection network elements, network warehouse function network elements, network data analysis network elements, unified data management network elements, unified data storage network elements, authentication service function network elements, network capability exposure network elements, application function network elements, and a data network (DN) connected to the operator's network. The terminal device can send service data to the data network through the access network device and the user plane network element, and receive service data from the data network.

[0139] A terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities that can be deployed on land. Terminal devices can be referred to as terminals, access terminals, subscriber units, user stations, mobile stations, mobile stations, remote stations, remote terminals, mobile devices, user terminals, wireless communication devices, user agents, or user devices. Terminal devices can be indoor or outdoor, handheld, wearable, or vehicle-mounted. The terminal device can be deployed on the water surface (such as a ship, etc.) or in the air (such as an airplane, a balloon, and a satellite, etc.). The terminal device can communicate with the core network via the radio access network (RAN) and exchange voice and / or data with the RAN. The terminal device can be a mobile phone, a tablet computer (Pad), a cellular phone, a cordless phone, a session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, a smart terminal, a wireless local loop (WLL) station, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a computer with wireless transceiver function, a handheld device with wireless communication function, a computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, a mobile internet device (MID), a wearable device, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in self-driving, a wireless terminal in remote medical care, a smart grid, etc. The terminal device may be a wireless terminal in a 5G network, a terminal device in a public land mobile network (PLMN) or a terminal device in an NTN. The terminal device may also be an end device, a logical entity, an intelligent device, or a communication device such as a server, a gateway, a base station, a controller, or an Internet of Things (IoT) device, such as a sensor, an electricity meter, or a water meter.The terminal device may also be referred to as user equipment (UE). The embodiments of the present application do not limit the specific technology, device form, and name adopted by the terminal device.

[0140] Access network equipment is a device used to connect terminal devices to a wireless network. Access network equipment can be a node in a radio access network (RAN), also known as a base station or a (radio) access network (R)AN node (or device). For ease of description, RAN will sometimes be used below to refer to access network equipment. It is understood that RAN can also be referred to as AN. In this application, access network equipment can be a satellite.

[0141] The access network equipment may include an evolved base station (NodeB or eNB or e-NodeB, evolutionary Node B) in a long term evolution (LTE) system or an evolved LTE system (LTE-Advanced, LTE-A), such as a traditional macro base station eNB and a micro base station eNB in ​​a heterogeneous network scenario, or may also include a next generation node B (gNB) in a 5G or NR system, or may also include a radio network controller (RNC), a node B (NB), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a transmission reception point (TRP), a home base station (e.g., home evolved NodeB, or home Node B, HNB), a base band unit (BBU), a base band pool BBU pool, or a WiFi access point (AP), etc., or may also include a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (CU) in a cloud radio access network (CloudRAN) system. Unit (DU), not limited in the embodiments of the present application. In a separate deployment scenario where the access network equipment includes a CU and a DU, the CU supports protocols such as radio resource control (RRC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), and service data adaptation protocol (SDAP); the DU mainly supports the radio link control layer (RLC), media access control layer (MAC), and physical layer protocols.

[0142] The access management network element may also be referred to as an access and mobility management device, an access and mobility management functional entity, an access and mobility management functional network element, a mobility management device, a mobility management network element, or a mobility management entity. The access management network element is mainly used for access control and mobility management of terminal devices in a mobile network. For example, the access management network element may provide terminal attachment, tracking area update procedures, non-access stratum (NAS) messages, registration management, connection management, reachability management, tracking area list (TA list) allocation, lawful interception, access authorization, authentication, selection of session management network elements, mobility state transition management, etc., and may send transparent routing session management (SM) messages to the session management network element. In the network framework of the LTE system, the access management network element may be the access and mobility management function in the MME. In the fifth generation (5G) communication system, the access management network element may be the AMF. In future communication systems (such as the 6G communication system), the mobility management network element may still be the AMF network element, or may have other names, which is not limited by this application. When the access management network element is an AMF network element, AMF can provide Namf services.

[0143] The session management network element can also be called a session management device. The session management network element is mainly used for session and bearer management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release. For example, the session management network element can allocate Internet Protocol (IP) addresses to terminal devices, select user plane network elements that provide message forwarding functions, and control quality of service (QoS). In a 4G network, the session management network element may be a packet data network gateway (PGW). In a 5G communication system, the session management network element may be a session management function (SMF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the session management network element may still be an SMF network element, or may have other names, which is not limited in this application. In the case where the session management network element is an SMF network element, the SMF can provide Nsmf services.

[0144] User plane network elements can also be referred to as user plane devices. User plane network elements are primarily used to process user messages, such as forwarding, billing, and lawful interception. For example, user plane network elements can be used for routing and forwarding user plane data, threshold control, traffic monitoring, and authentication. User plane network elements can also be used to manage UE IP addresses and core network (CN) tunnel information. User plane network elements can receive user data from the DN and transmit this user data to the terminal device via the access network device. User plane network elements can also receive user data from the terminal device via the access network device and forward this user data to the DN. The transmission resources and scheduling functions that provide services to the terminal device in the user plane network element are managed and controlled by the session management network element. User plane network elements can also be referred to as protocol data unit (PDU) session anchors (PSAs). In 5G communication systems, user plane network elements can be user plane functions (UPFs). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), user plane network elements can still be UPF network elements, or they can have other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0145] The policy control network element includes user subscription data management functions, policy control functions, charging policy control functions, quality of service (QoS) control, etc. In 4G networks, the policy control network element can be a policy and charging rules function unit (PCRF). In 5G communication systems, the policy control network element can be a policy control function (PCF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the policy control network element can still be a PCF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited in this application.

[0146] The network slice selection function network element is mainly used to select a suitable network slice for the service of the terminal device. In the 5G communication system, the network slice selection network element can be a network slice selection function (NSSF) network element. In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network slice selection network element can still be an NSSF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

[0147] The network repository function network element is mainly used to provide registration and discovery functions for network elements or services provided by network elements. In 5G communication systems, the network repository function network element can be a network repository function (NRF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network repository function network element can still be an NRF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

[0148] The network data analysis network element can collect data from various network functions (NFs), such as policy control network elements, session management network elements, user plane network elements, access management network elements, and application function network elements (through network capability exposure function network elements), and perform analysis and prediction. In a 5G communication system, the network data analysis network element can be a network data analysis function (NWDAF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network data analysis network element can still be an NWDAF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

[0149] The unified data management network element may also be referred to as a unified data management device, a data management device, a unified data management entity, etc. The unified data management network element is mainly used to manage the configuration information of the terminal device, such as the terminal device's identification, access authentication information, registration information, and mobility management information. In a 4G network, the unified data management network element may be a home subscriber server (HSS). In a 5G communication system, the unified data management network element may be a unified data management (UDM). In future communication systems (such as a 6G communication system), the unified data management network element may still be a UDM network element, or may have other names, which is not limited in this application.

[0150] The unified data storage network element may also be referred to as a user database device, a user database entity, a user database network element, etc. The unified data storage network element is mainly used to store structured data information, such as configuration information, policy information, etc., and to store network data or service data defined in a standard format. In a 5G communication system, the unified data storage network element may be a unified data repository (UDR). In future communication systems (such as a 6G communication system), the unified data storage network element may still be a UDR network element, or may have other names, which is not limited in this application.

[0151] The authentication service function network element is mainly used to perform security authentication on the terminal device. In the 5G communication system, the authentication service function network element can be the authentication server function (AUSF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the authentication service function network element can still be the AUSF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

[0152] A network capability exposure network element can controllably expose some network functions to applications. In a 5G communication system, a network capability exposure network element can be a network exposure function (NEF). In future communication systems (such as a 6G communication system), the network capability exposure network element can still be an NEF network element, or it can have other names, which are not limited by this application.

[0153] The application function network element can provide service data of various applications to the control plane network elements of the operator's communication network, or obtain network data information and control information from the control plane network elements of the communication network. In the 5G communication system, the application function network element can be an application function (AF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the application function network element can still be an AF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application. For example, the application function network element can also be called an application server or a service server. In addition, the application function network element can be deployed in the operator network or by a third party.

[0154] Data networks are primarily used to provide data transmission services to terminal devices. Data networks can be private networks, such as local area networks (LANs), public data networks (PDNs), such as the Internet, or proprietary networks deployed jointly by operators, such as those configured with IP multimedia core network subsystem (IMS) services. Data networks can also be provided by third parties.

[0155] It should be understood that the above-mentioned network element or function can be a network element in a hardware device, a software function running on dedicated hardware, or a virtualized function instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). Optionally, the above-mentioned network element or function can be implemented by a single device, or by multiple devices, or as a functional module within a single device, which is not specifically limited in the embodiments of the present application.

[0156] It should also be understood that the above naming is only defined to facilitate the distinction between different functions and should not constitute any limitation to this application. This application does not exclude the possibility of adopting other naming in 5G networks and other networks in the future. For example, in a 6G network, some or all of the above networks may continue to use the terminology in 5G, or other names may be used. The interface name between the various network elements in Figure 1 is only an example. The name of the interface in the specific implementation may be other names, and this application does not make specific limitations on this. In addition, the name of the message (or signaling) transmitted between the above-mentioned network elements is only an example and does not constitute any limitation on the function of the message itself.

[0157] It should be noted that the aforementioned "network element" may also be referred to as an entity, device, apparatus, or module, and this application does not specifically limit this. Furthermore, in this application, for ease of understanding and explanation, the term "network element" is omitted in some descriptions. For example, the PCF network element is referred to as PCF. In this case, the "PCF" should be understood as a PCF network element or PCF entity. The following descriptions of identical or similar situations are omitted.

[0158] In the standard agreement of R15-R18, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3 rd The 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) has defined a series of architectures and features for satellites. These satellite-based access network architectures are primarily used in remote areas where cellular networks may not be able to reach them. Therefore, satellites are used as access network devices to facilitate communication between end devices. In other scenarios, the low latency of low-orbit satellites enables instantaneous data transmission.

[0159] A satellite's orbit can be predetermined, for example, by using its ephemeris information. This information can include information such as the orbit's altitude, the angle between the orbit and the equatorial plane, and the orbit's speed. This ephemeris information can be used to determine the satellite's spatial position at a given time.

[0160] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of a network architecture of another communication system applicable to an embodiment of the present application.

[0161] Referring to FIG2(a), UE 230 accesses CN 210 via next-generation radio access network (NG-RAN) 220. NG-RAN 220 includes gNB 221, gateway 222, and satellite 223. In NG-RAN 220, gNB 221 serves as a base station, and satellite 223 serves as a transport layer node (TLN) or relay. During data transmission between CN 210 and UE 230, satellite 223 does not process the data. Therefore, satellite 223 in FIG2(a) can be referred to as a transparent satellite.

[0162] Referring to Figure 2(b), UE 230 accesses CN 210 via NG-RAN 220. Unlike Figure 2(a), satellite 223 is used to connect UE 230 to CN 210 and also processes data. In this case, satellite 223 functions as a base station (e.g., gNB 221). Figure 2(b) can also be considered a gNB on board solution, where UE 230 connects to CN 210 via a satellite base station and gateway 222. Satellite 223 in Figure 2(b) can be referred to as a regenerative satellite.

[0163] It should be noted that the gNB in ​​Figure 2 can be replaced by an eNB. The embodiments of the present application can be applied to 5G networks, 4G networks, and other communication systems.

[0164] As mentioned above, how to enable the access network device to implement paging of the terminal device is an urgent problem to be solved.

[0165] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this document simply describes an association between related objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and / or B" can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character " / " in this document generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0166] Figure 3 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Method 300 enables an access network device to perform paging of a terminal device. Method 300 can be applied to the network architecture shown in Figures 1 or 2 above. An embodiment of method 300 is described below in conjunction with Figure 3.

[0167] S310: A first access network device receives first information from a core network device.

[0168] The first access network device may cover a first area, which may be understood as the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device being the first area.

[0169] The first information may be used to trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device.

[0170] Among them, the terminal device may be located in the second area, and the first area is different from the second area, which can be specifically replaced by: the terminal device is located outside the first area, or the terminal device is located outside the current coverage of the first access network device (for example, outside the signal coverage range, or outside the beam coverage range). Furthermore, the first access network device covering the second area in S320 can be replaced by: the first access network device covers the location where the terminal device is located (hereinafter referred to as covering the terminal device), or the terminal device is located within the coverage range of the first access network device, and this application is not limited to this.

[0171] Correspondingly, the core network device sends the first information to the first access network device. Wherein, the core network device is used to perform access and mobility management on the terminal device, for example, AMF or MME, which is not limited in this application.

[0172] It is understandable that if the core network device pages the terminal device through the access network device, there may be at least one access network device that receives the paging message from the core network device. The first access network device can be any one of the at least one access network device, and this application is not limited to this. For example, the current coverage areas of RAN#1, RAN#2 and RAN#3 intersect with the first area, or in other words, RAN#1, RAN#2 and RAN#3 are all connected to the core network device for power supply. Among them, RAN#1 and RAN#2 can cover the second area after a period of time, that is, the current coverage areas of RAN#1 and RAN#2 intersect with the second area, or in other words, RAN#1 and RAN#2 cover the terminal device. At this time, RAN#1 and RAN#2 can page the terminal device.

[0173] It should be noted that the first access network device can receive the first information from the core network device via an inter-satellite link (ISL). For example, after receiving the first information from the core network device, RAN#2 can send the first information to RAN#1 via the ISL between it and RAN#1.

[0174] It should be noted that the first access network device can serve as an on-board base station (gNB on-board), that is, the first access network device is located on a satellite, and the first access network device moves or flies according to a predetermined trajectory, thereby covering different areas. For example, when the first access network device receives the first information from the core network device, the first access network device covers the first area; or, in other words, when the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area, the core network device sends the first information to the first access network device. It is understandable that as the first access network device moves or flies, the position of the first access network device will also change. The first access network device does not always cover the first area, but may also cover other areas. For example, when the first access network device moves or flies to another location, the first access network device may cover the second area, that is, the area where the terminal device is located.

[0175] The first area is different from the second area, which can be understood as belonging to different areas (for example, TA, cell, geographical area). For example, the first area belongs to TA#1, the second area belongs to TA#2, and TA#1 is different from TA#2. It can also be understood that there is no intersection between the two. For example, the first area is TA#1, the second area is cell#1, and there is no intersection between the two.

[0176] Specifically, the first area may be a TA or other area (e.g., a cell, a geographic area). The second area may be a TA or other area (e.g., a cell, a geographic area). In an NTN scenario, the TA may also be referred to as an NTN TA. Embodiments in which the first area and / or the second area are other areas will be described later and will not be repeated here.

[0177] It should be pointed out that the embodiments of the present application can be applied in a discontinuous feeding scenario. Specifically, in a discontinuous feeding scenario, when the feeding link between the access network device and the gateway station of the core network device is not disconnected (or remains connected), the service link between the access network device and the terminal device is disconnected; or, when the service link between the access network device and the terminal device is not disconnected, the feeding link between the access network device and the gateway station of the core network device is disconnected (which can be understood as unable to communicate). Among them, the discontinuous feeding scenario is a concept relative to the continuous feeding scenario. In the continuous feeding scenario, the access network device can connect the feeding link and the service link at the same time.

[0178] Exemplarily, when the first access network device covers the first area, it can establish a feeder link with the gateway of the core network device; when the first access network device covers the second area, it can establish a service link with the terminal device. It is understandable that when the first access network device covers the first area (or is connected to the feeder link, or is connected to the core network device), it does not cover the second area (or is not connected to the service link, or is not connected to the terminal device); or, when the first access network device covers the second area (or is connected to the service link, or is connected to the terminal device), it does not cover the first area (or is not connected to the feeder link, or is not connected to the core network device).

[0179] In the embodiments of this application, "coverage" can be understood as signal coverage. For example, if a first access network device covers a first area, it can be understood that the signal of the first access network device covers the first area. Those skilled in the art will understand that "coverage" can refer not only to full signal coverage but also to partial signal coverage. For example, if a first access network device covers a first area, it can be understood that the signal coverage range of the first access network device intersects with the first area, or it can be understood that the signal beam of the first access network device reaches the first area.

[0180] The first information may be any information, for example, the first information may be a paging message or a paging request instruction. Specifically, during the process of the first access network device paging the terminal device, the first access network device may send a paging message to the terminal device, and the paging message may be the same as or different from the first information.

[0181] When the first information is a paging message, for the sake of distinction, the paging message sent by the core network device to the first access network device is referred to as the first paging message, and the paging message sent by the first access network device to the terminal device is referred to as the second paging message. It is understood that the first paging message and the second paging message may be different. For example, the second paging message may be an RRC message.

[0182] Exemplarily, the core network device may send the first information to the first access network device through the gateway. For a terminal device in the connection management idle (CM-IDLE) state, the core network device (e.g., AMF) may initiate paging (e.g., sending a paging message) to the terminal device through the first access network device, so that the terminal device can return from the CM-IDLE state to the CM-connected state, thereby enabling the core network device to transmit data with the terminal device. In other words, the first access network device enables the terminal device to enter a state of receiving and sending data by paging the terminal device (e.g., by sending a paging message to the terminal device).

[0183] The first information may be carried in the N2 message. In other words, the N2 message may carry the first information.

[0184] In an optional implementation, before S310 , the method 300 further includes: the core network device receiving a service request from the application server.

[0185] Among them, the service request may request to send data to the terminal device. The service request may carry an identifier of the terminal device, such as a user permanent identifier (SUPI) or a user concealed identifier (SUCI). The service request may also carry data to be sent to the terminal device. In addition, the service request may also carry indication information, which is used to trigger the core network device to notify the access network device to cache the information corresponding to the downlink signaling or data of the terminal device when receiving the downlink signaling or data of the terminal device (for example, the downlink signaling is a first paging message, and the information corresponding to the first paging message may be a first paging message or a second paging message), until the terminal device is within the coverage range of the access network device and then sends the cached information to the terminal device (wherein, the caching and other related operations of the access network device may be referred to as S&F operations). Specifically, the indication information can be used to indicate that the data to be sent to the terminal device belongs to the S&F type. For example, the indication information is the service type of the data, and the service type is the S&F type.

[0186] Accordingly, after receiving the service request from the application server, the core network device may send the first information to the first access network device, thereby executing S310. It should be noted that other information or other devices may trigger the core network device to send the first information to the first access network device, and this application does not limit this.

[0187] S320: The first access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0188] For example, when the first access network device receives the first information, if it does not cover the location of the terminal device, the first access network device may store the first information (or a portion of the first information), or generate the second paging message based on the first information and store the second paging message; when the first access network device covers the location of the terminal device, the terminal device may be paged based on the stored information. For example, a paging message may be generated based on the stored first information and sent, or the stored second paging message may be sent, and this is not limited in this application.

[0189] The first access network device covers the second area. For details, please refer to S310 regarding the relevant description of covering the first area, which will not be repeated here.

[0190] In combination with the above-mentioned situation where the first access network device is a satellite base station, the first access network device covers the first area when receiving the first information. After the satellite moves for a period of time, the first access network device successfully covers the second area. In this case, the first access network device pages the terminal device.

[0191] Through the method in the above embodiment, the first access network device receives the first information for triggering paging of the terminal device from the core network device when it does not cover the terminal device, and pages the terminal device when it covers the terminal device, thereby avoiding the access network device from continuously paging the terminal device after receiving the first information, which not only improves the paging success rate but also saves signaling overhead.

[0192] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

[0193] The terminal device identifier may be a temporary mobile subscriber identity (TMSI). However, this application does not limit the terminal device identifier and may also be other identifiers, such as a globally unique temporary UE identity (GUTI).

[0194] The second area may be a TA, a cell or a geographical area.

[0195] Furthermore, when the second area is a geographical area, the identifier of the second area may be the latitude and longitude information of the geographical area, or other coordinate information. The geographical area may be smaller than the range of the cell. When the second area is a cell, the identifier of the second area may be a cell identity (cell ID). When the second area is a TA, the identifier of the second area may be a tracking area identity (TAI). For example, in an NTN system, the identifier of the second area may be an NTN TAI. The identifier of the second area varies depending on the second area. For details, please refer to the embodiments below and will not be repeated here.

[0196] It should be noted that the TAI can be one or more. In the case of multiple TAIs, the TAI can also be called a TAI list. In the case of multiple TAIs, multiple TAIs can cover the terminal device corresponding to the ULI. Similarly, the cell identifier can be one or more, and the coordinate information can be one or more.

[0197] Furthermore, the first access network device can page the terminal device based on the identifier of the terminal device and the identifier of the second area when the first access network device covers the second area, thereby improving the paging success rate of the terminal device.

[0198] In one example, the first information may include location information of the terminal device (e.g., UE location information, ULI), the ULI may include at least one of a TAI, a cell identifier, or coordinate information, and the location information of the terminal device may include an identifier of the second area. For example, assuming that the ULI includes a TAI and a cell identifier, the identifier of the second area may be a TAI or a cell identifier.

[0199] In another example, the identifier of the second area is the location information of the terminal device, which is not limited in this application.

[0200] The ULI of the terminal device may come from the terminal device. For example, the ULI may be sent by the terminal device to the core network device during the last data transmission between the terminal device and the core network device. Alternatively, the ULI may be sent by the terminal device to the core network device during the registration process with the core network device.

[0201] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the first information includes an identifier of the terminal device.

[0202] Furthermore, the first access network device can obtain the location information of the terminal device stored therein (which may include the identification of the second area) based on the identification of the terminal device, and page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the location corresponding to the location information of the terminal device (for example, the second area), thereby improving the paging success rate of the terminal device.

[0203] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the method 300 also includes: the first access network device receives second information from the core network device, and the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0204] Further, S320 may include: the first access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information and the second information when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0205] Correspondingly, the method 300 further includes: the core network device sending second information to the first access network device.

[0206] The second information may be understood as an S&F indicator or a trigger. Specifically, the core network device may instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation by sending the second information to the first access network device.

[0207] As an example, the second information can be carried in the same message as the TAI. In this way, the message can be used to instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation. When the first access network device covers the second area indicated by the TAI, the first access network device pages the terminal device. As another example, the second information can be carried in the ULI. In this way, the ULI can instruct the first access network device to page the terminal device when it covers the second area indicated by the ULI. For example, the ULI may include the TAI, the cell identifier, and the second information.

[0208] Based on the above solution, the first access network device can perform the S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, and perform the S&F operation more accurately for different terminal devices to avoid the problem of untimely paging.

[0209] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the method 300 further includes: the core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device based on the configuration information of the terminal device.

[0210] The configuration information of the terminal device may be used to indicate that the terminal device needs to apply the S&F operation. In this way, the core network device may determine to send the second information to the first access network device based on the configuration information, that is, to instruct the first access network device to perform the S&F operation.

[0211] For example, the configuration information may include subscription information, and the subscription information may be used to indicate that the terminal device has subscribed to the S&F service, or to indicate that the terminal device needs to use the S&F operation.

[0212] For another example, the configuration information may include the radio access type (RAT) of the terminal device, and the configuration information may include S&F RAT, and S&F RAT is used to indicate that the terminal device needs to apply S&F operations. The present application does not limit the configuration information of the terminal device to only include subscription information or RAT. The configuration information of the terminal device may also be other information. For example, the configuration information may include information provided by the terminal device when accessing the network (such as information in the registration process, or information about the last interaction with the access network device, etc.). As an example, when the information in the registration process includes information indicating that the terminal device needs to use S&F operations, the core network device may determine to send the second information to the first access network device. As another example, when the terminal device performed an S&F operation the last time it interacted with the access network device, the core network device may determine to send the second information to the first access network device.

[0213] For another example, the configuration information may include the location information of the terminal device, and the core network device may determine to send the second information to the first access network device based on the location information of the terminal device and the ephemeris information of the first access network device. As an example, when the first access network device cannot simultaneously cover the first area and the second area where the terminal device is located, the core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device, instructing the first access network device to perform the S&F operation. As another example, when the terminal device is far away from the core network device, if the first access network device cannot simultaneously connect to the feeder link and the service link, the core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device, instructing the first access network device to perform the S&F operation.

[0214] Based on the above solution, the core network device can instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation during interaction with the terminal device based on the terminal device's configuration information. This solution enables the first access network device to promptly perform an S&F operation under the instruction of the core network device, thereby improving the terminal device's paging success rate and reducing signaling overhead.

[0215] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the method 300 further includes: the first access network device determines, based on the third information, to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0216] The third information is used to indicate the location of the terminal device, and may include information of the second area, such as an identifier of the second area; it may also include location information of the terminal, such as a ULI, which is not limited in this application.

[0217] Further, S320 may include: the first access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information and the third information when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0218] Different from the aforementioned solution regarding the second information, in this solution, the first access network device itself determines whether the S&F operation needs to be performed.

[0219] The information of the second area can be understood as the location information of the terminal device. The information of the second area can specifically be identification information of the second area, such as TA information, cell information, or geographic location information (e.g., coordinate location information). In this way, when the second area is far from the first area, the first access network device can determine to perform the S&F operation.

[0220] As an example, when the first access network device receives the first information, the first access network device may determine, based on the information about the second area and the location information of the core network device's gateway, whether to page the terminal device if the first access network device covers the second area. For example, if the first access network device determines that it cannot connect to the core network device's gateway when covering the second area, it may perform an S&F operation on the terminal device. For another example, if the first access network device determines that it can connect to the core network device's gateway when covering the second area, it may not perform an S&F operation.

[0221] In other words, when the first access network device receives the first information, the first access network device can determine whether to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area based on the information of the second area and the feeder connection between the first access network device and the core network device. For example, if the first access network device determines that the feeder connection with the core network device is disconnected when it covers the second area, it determines to perform the S&F operation. For another example, if the first access network device determines that the feeder connection with the core network device is not disconnected when it covers the second area, it does not perform the S&F operation.

[0222] As another example, when the first access network device receives the first information, the first access network device may determine whether the service connection between the first access network device and the terminal device is available based on the information of the second area, so as to determine whether to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area. For example, when the first access network device covers the first area, if the first access network device determines that the service connection between it and the terminal device is unavailable, it determines to perform the S&F operation. For another example, when the first access network device covers the first area, if the first access network device determines that the service connection between it and the terminal device is available, it determines not to perform the S&F operation.

[0223] Based on the above solution, the first access network device can determine whether to perform the S&F operation based on the third information. The above solution enables the first access network device to perform the S&F operation when it cannot directly page the terminal device successfully, thereby improving the paging success rate of the terminal device and saving signaling overhead.

[0224] In some optional embodiments, the first access network device determines, based on the third information, to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area, including: the first access network device determines, based on the information of the second area, that the first access network device cannot cover the first area and the second area at the same time, or determines, based on the information of the second area, that the first area is different from the second area; the first access network device determines to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0225] The above describes some implementations of how a first access network device determines whether to perform an S&F operation. The following describes some implementations of how a core network device determines whether to perform an S&F operation on the first access network device. Specifically, the following embodiments describe how a core network device selects a first access network device from among multiple access network devices to perform an S&F operation on.

[0226] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, before S310, the method 300 further includes: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0227] A satellite's ephemeris information (ephemeris) can be used to characterize its orbital trajectory. This information includes information such as the orbital altitude, the angle between the orbit and the equatorial plane, and the orbital speed. Based on this information, the satellite's spatial position at a given time can be determined.

[0228] For example, the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, an access network device that can cover the second area. If the ephemeris information of the access network device includes an identifier of the second area, the core network device may determine that the access network device can cover the second area. If the ephemeris information of the access network device does not include an identifier of the second area, the core network device may determine that the access network device cannot cover the second area.

[0229] If there are multiple access network devices that can cover the second area, the core network device may select one of these access network devices as the first access network device. There are various ways to determine the first access network device from among the multiple access network devices. For example, one of the multiple access network devices may be randomly selected as the first access network device. This application is not limited to this, and other methods may also be used to determine the first access network device from among the multiple access network devices.

[0230] Based on the above solution, the core network device can determine the first access network device based on the ephemeris information, and the first access network device can cover the second area. Therefore, the above solution enables the first access network device to paging the terminal device in the second area and saves signaling overhead.

[0231] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device based on the ephemeris information, including: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, that the time duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to a time duration threshold; the core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0232] The duration threshold may be pre-set or have other specific meanings. It is understood that if the duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to the duration threshold, it indicates that the duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is relatively short.

[0233] Based on the above solution, the core network device can determine the access network device that takes a shorter time to move from the first area to the second area based on the ephemeris information and perform paging on the terminal device. The above solution can improve the communication efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device.

[0234] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the duration threshold is the duration for the second access network device to move from the first area to the second area, wherein the second access network device is one of multiple access network devices whose current coverage area is the first area, and the first access network device is one of the multiple access network devices; or, the duration threshold is the duration for the first access network device to retain the first information.

[0235] The duration threshold may have other specific meanings besides being pre-set.

[0236] Specifically, the duration threshold may be the duration for another access network device (ie, the second access network device) to move from the first area to the second area. The second access network device may be any one of multiple access network devices.

[0237] It is understandable that the second access network device is different from the first access network device. For example, the second access network device may be the access network device that takes the longest time to move from the first area to the second area among multiple access network devices. In this way, the first access network device is at least not the slowest access network device to move from the first area to the second area. For another example, the second access network device may be the access network device that takes the second shortest time to move from the first area to the second area among multiple access network devices. In this way, the first access network device is the fastest access network device to move from the first area to the second area.

[0238] Furthermore, the core network device may arbitrarily select two of the multiple access network devices, and select the access network device that takes a shorter time to move from the first area to the second area as the first access network device, and select the access network device that takes a longer time to move from the first area to the second area as the second access network device. Alternatively, the core network device may poll the multiple access network devices and determine the access network device that takes the shortest time to move from the first area to the second area as the first access network device.

[0239] The duration threshold may be the duration for which the first access network device retains the first information. In this way, the first access network device still stores the first information when covering the second area, and can page the terminal device according to the first information when covering the second area.

[0240] In other embodiments, the duration threshold may be the duration for which the first access network device retains the second paging message, wherein the second paging message is an RRC message to be sent to the terminal device, and the second paging message is generated by the first access network device based on the first information.

[0241] The duration for which the first access network device retains the first information can be indicated by a retention period. The retention period can be configured based on the granularity of the access network device. In other words, each access network device is configured with one or more retention periods. In this way, the core network device can determine the duration for which the access network device retains the first information (i.e., the above-mentioned duration threshold) based on the configuration information of the access network device. If the duration for the access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to the duration threshold, the access network device is determined to be the first access network device.

[0242] It should be noted that the retention duration can also be configured according to the granularity of the terminal device. In other words, each terminal device can be configured with one or more retention durations. In this way, the core network device can determine the duration (i.e., the above-mentioned duration threshold) for the access network device to retain the first information based on the configuration information of the terminal device (for example, contract information), and determine that the access network device is the first access network device when the duration for the access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to the duration threshold. The retention duration can also be represented by other names, such as retention period, storage period, storage duration, etc. This application does not limit the specific name of the retention duration. From the time the data is stored in the access network device, the data will be discarded after the retention duration.

[0243] Based on the above solution, the core network device can select, from among multiple access network devices, an access network device that can more quickly cover the second area to perform the S&F operation, thereby improving the communication efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device. Alternatively, the core network device can select, from among multiple access network devices, an access network device that can retain the first information to the access network device that pages the terminal device, thereby enabling the access network device to paging the terminal device.

[0244] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the method 300 further includes: the first access network device sends fifth information to the core network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the first access network device has a store-and-forward capability.

[0245] Correspondingly, the method 300 further includes: the core network device receiving fifth information from the first access network device.

[0246] The fifth information can be understood as an S&F indicator or trigger from the first access network device. The fifth information can also be called an S&FRAN indicator (or trigger). The fifth information can be sent when the first access network device is initially connected to the core network device. In this way, when the first access network device and the core network device are just connected, the core network device can determine whether the first access network device has the store-and-forward capability based on the fifth information, and then determine whether to select the first access network device to perform the S&F operation.

[0247] Furthermore, the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, that the terminal device is to be paged through the first access network device, which may include: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information and the fifth information, that the terminal device is to be paged through the first access network device.

[0248] That is, when determining the first access network device, the core network device not only considers whether the access network device can cover the second area, but also considers whether the access network device has store-and-forward capabilities. If the access network device can cover the second area and has store-and-forward capabilities, the core network device may determine the access network device as the first access network device.

[0249] As an example, after the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information and the fifth information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device, the core network device may send the aforementioned second information to the first access network device. In this way, the core network device may instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation through the second information.

[0250] As another example, an access network device with store-and-forward capability can be configured to automatically perform S&F operations. In this way, after the core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device based on the ephemeris information and the fifth information, the core network device does not need to send the aforementioned second information to the first access network device, but only needs to send the aforementioned first information to the first access network device, which can trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device and trigger the first access network device to perform S&F operations. That is to say, when the access network device with store-and-forward capability is configured to automatically perform S&F operations, the core network device can directly page the terminal device through the first access network device. The access network device configured to automatically perform S&F operations can also be called an S&F exclusive RAN.

[0251] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report information to the core network device indicating that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. In this way, when the core network device selects an access network device to perform an S&F operation, it can consider whether the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities, thereby avoiding selecting an access network device that does not have storage and forwarding capabilities to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device in paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0252] It should be noted that the core network device may not confirm whether the access network device has the store-and-forward capability through the information reported by the access network device. The core network device may also obtain information indicating whether the access network device has the store-and-forward capability through other means.

[0253] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the method 300 further includes: the first access network device sends sixth information to the core network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate the storage space of the first access network device.

[0254] Correspondingly, the method 300 further includes: the core network device receiving sixth information from the first access network device.

[0255] Among them, the first access network device sends the sixth information to the core network device, which can be understood as the first access network device reporting the storage space of the first access network device to the core network device. The storage space can be the remaining storage space of the first access network device. The present application does not limit the specific form in which the sixth information indicates the storage space. The sixth information can indicate the storage space in the form of an absolute value or in the form of a relative value. For example, assume that the total space of the first access network device is 100MB and the remaining storage space is 20MB. When indicating the storage space in the form of an absolute value, the sixth information can be used to indicate 20MB. When indicating the storage space in the form of a relative value, the sixth information can be used to indicate 20%, or one-fifth. The sixth information can indicate the storage space in other forms.

[0256] Furthermore, the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information, that the terminal device is to be paged through the first access network device, which may include: the core network device determines, based on the ephemeris information and the sixth information, that the terminal device is to be paged through the first access network device.

[0257] That is, when determining the first access network device, the core network device considers not only whether the access network device can cover the second area but also the storage space of the access network device. If the access network device can cover the second area and has storage space that meets the store-and-forward requirements, the core network device may determine the access network device as the first access network device.

[0258] Furthermore, the sixth information can also be used to indicate that the first access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. That is, the sixth information can also have the function of the fifth information. Alternatively, when the access network device reports storage space to the core network device, the core network device determines that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. That is, when the core network device receives information indicating storage space from the access network device, the core network device believes that the access network device has storage and forwarding capabilities. Therefore, the core network device can send the aforementioned second information to the first access network device, and instruct the first access network device to perform S&F operations through the second information. Alternatively, when the access network device with storage and forwarding capabilities is configured to automatically perform S&F operations, the core network device can directly page the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0259] Based on the above solution, the access network device can report the storage space of the access network device to the core network device. In this way, when the core network device selects the access network device to perform the S&F operation, it can consider the storage space of the access network device, avoid selecting the access network device with insufficient storage space to perform the S&F operation, and improve the success rate of the core network device to paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0260] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, before S310, the method 300 further includes: the core network device determines that the storage space can store data to be sent to the terminal device.

[0261] The data to be sent to the terminal device may include the first information, the second paging message (RRC message generated by the access network device based on the first information) or downlink data to be sent by the core network device to the terminal device. It should be noted that the data to be sent to the terminal device may also include other data.

[0262] Among them, the storage space can store data to be sent to the terminal device, and the size of the storage space can be greater than or equal to the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, or the size of the space available for use by the terminal device in the storage space can be greater than or equal to the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device.

[0263] In one example, the core network device may determine whether the storage space is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device based on the storage space and the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device. For example, if the storage space is 20 MB and the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device is 5 MB, the core network device may determine whether the storage space is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device.

[0264] In another example, the core network device may determine whether the storage space can store the data to be sent to the terminal device based on the storage space, the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, and the quota indicated by quota information. The quota information is used to indicate the maximum space that the data to be sent to the terminal device can occupy on the access network device.

[0265] Quota information can be configured based on the granularity of access network devices. In other words, each access network device can be configured with one or more quota information. This allows the core network device to determine the maximum space that each terminal device can occupy on the access network device based on the configuration information of the access network device. Quota information can also be configured based on the granularity of the terminal device. In other words, each terminal device can be configured with one or more quota information. This allows the core network device to determine the maximum space that a terminal device can occupy on the access network device based on its configuration information (e.g., contract information).

[0266] In the case where the storage space of the access network device is greater than or equal to the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, and the quota of the terminal device is greater than or equal to the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device can determine to perform the S&F operation through the access network device. For example, if the storage space of the access network device is 20MB, the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device is 5MB, and the quota of the terminal device is 6MB, then the core network device can determine to perform the S&F operation through the access network device. For another example, if the storage space of the access network device is 20MB, the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device is 5MB, and the quota of the terminal device is 5MB, then the core network device can determine to perform the S&F operation through the access network device.

[0267] If the access network device's storage space is smaller than the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device may not perform the S&F operation through the access network device. For example, if the access network device's storage space is 4MB, the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device is 5MB, and the terminal device's quota is 6MB, the core network device may not perform the S&F operation through the access network device. This is because, although the terminal device's quota is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device, the access network device's storage space is too small, and therefore, the access network device cannot perform the S&F operation.

[0268] If the terminal device's quota is smaller than the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device may not perform the S&F operation through the access network device. For example, if the access network device has 20MB of storage space, the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device is 5MB, and the terminal device's quota is 4MB, the core network device may not perform the S&F operation through the access network device. This is because, although the access network device's storage space is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device, the terminal device's quota is too small, and therefore, the access network device cannot perform the S&F operation.

[0269] It is understood that the aforementioned two methods of the core network device performing the S&F operation without going through the access network device can be combined. That is, if the storage space of the access network device is smaller than the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, and the terminal device's quota is smaller than the size of the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device may not perform the S&F operation through the access network device.

[0270] Based on the above solution, if the core network device determines that the storage space of the access network device is sufficient to store the data to be sent to the terminal device, the core network device pages the terminal device through the access network device. This solution prevents the core network device from selecting an access network device that is unable to perform an S&F operation to perform an S&F operation, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device paging the terminal device through the access network device.

[0271] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, the method 300 also includes: the first access network device receives fourth information from the core network device, and the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the first access network device on the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0272] Further, S320 may include: the first access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information and the fourth information when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0273] Correspondingly, the method 300 further includes: the core network device sending fourth information to the first access network device.

[0274] Furthermore, the first access network device may page the terminal device according to the number of paging times and / or paging duration indicated by the fourth information.

[0275] The paging count can be understood as the maximum number of times the first access network device can page the terminal device when it covers the second area. If the first access network device successfully pages the terminal device within the paging count indicated by the fourth information, paging can be stopped. For example, if the fourth information indicates a paging count of 10, the first access network device, when covering the second area, will page the terminal device 10 times based on the fourth information and the first information. If the first access network device successfully pages the terminal device on the fifth paging attempt, the first access network device does not need to perform the remaining five paging attempts. If the first access network device still fails to page the terminal device after reaching the paging count indicated by the fourth information, paging will also be stopped. For example, if the first access network device fails to page the terminal device 10 times, the first access network device will not page the terminal device again. In other words, the first access network device will page the terminal device a maximum of 10 times. That is, the maximum number of paging attempts the first access network device can perform on the terminal device is the number of paging attempts indicated by the fourth information.

[0276] The number of paging calls can also be understood as a fixed number of times the first access network device pages the terminal device when it covers the second area. For example, if the fourth information indicates a paging call number of 10, the first access network device will page the terminal device 10 times based on the fourth information and the first information when it covers the second area. Regardless of whether the paging is successful or unsuccessful, the first access network device will page the terminal device 10 times when it covers the second area.

[0277] The paging duration can be understood as the maximum duration for the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area. If the first access network device successfully pages the terminal device within the paging duration indicated by the fourth information, the paging process may cease. For example, if the fourth information indicates a paging duration of 5 minutes, the first access network device, when covering the second area, will page the terminal device for 5 minutes based on the fourth information and the first information. If the first access network device successfully pages the terminal device after 3 minutes of paging, the first access network device does not need to perform paging for the remaining 2 minutes. If the first access network device still fails to page the terminal device after the paging duration indicated by the fourth information is reached, the paging process will also cease. For example, if the first access network device fails to page the terminal device for 5 minutes, the first access network device will not page the terminal device again. In other words, the first access network device will page the terminal device for a maximum of 5 minutes. In other words, the maximum paging duration that the first access network device will perform on the terminal device is the paging duration indicated by the fourth information.

[0278] The paging duration can also be understood as a fixed duration for the first access network device to page the terminal device when it covers the second area. For example, the fourth information indicates a paging duration of 5 minutes. When the first access network device covers the second area, it will page the terminal device for 5 minutes based on the fourth information and the first information. Regardless of whether the paging succeeds or fails, the first access network device will continue to page the terminal device for 5 minutes when it covers the second area.

[0279] Among them, the fourth information can be used only to indicate the number of paging times or the paging duration, or can be used to indicate the number of paging times and the paging duration. The above two solutions for understanding the number of paging times and the two solutions for understanding the paging duration can be combined arbitrarily. For example, for the combined solution of understanding the number of paging times as a fixed number and the paging duration as a fixed duration, if the fourth information indicates that the number of paging times is 10 times and the paging duration is 5 minutes, then the first access network device, when covering the second area, will page the terminal device for 5 minutes according to the fourth information and the first information, specifically, paging 10 times within these 5 minutes.

[0280] In addition, the paging duration can be understood as a time window (or duration) or a time period. For example, the 5-minute time window in the above example can be a time window, and the fourth information only indicates the 5-minute time window, but does not indicate the start or end time of the 5-minute time window. For another example, the 5-minute time window in the above example can be a time period, and the fourth information not only indicates the 5-minute time window, but also indicates the start or end time of the 5-minute time window.

[0281] In one implementation, the core network device may determine the fourth information according to the ephemeris information of the first access network device and the identifier of the second area.

[0282] For example, the core network device may calculate, based on the orbital altitude and operating speed of the first access network device, that the flight duration of the first access network device passing through the TA list is 5 minutes, and the core network device may determine that the paging duration is 5 minutes. Alternatively, the core network device may determine, based on the orbital altitude and operating speed of the first access network device, that the first access network device can page the terminal device located in the TA by paging 10 times during the flight covering the TA.

[0283] In a scenario where the paging duration is understood as a time window, the core network device can determine that the paging duration is 5 minutes, and the first access network device determines which moment serves as the starting moment of the 5 minutes. For example, the first access network device can determine the moment when the TA is just covered as the starting moment of the 5 minutes. In this way, the fourth information sent by the core network device to the first access network device can indicate 5 minutes. In a scenario where the paging duration is understood as a time period, the core network device can determine that the paging duration is 5 minutes and the starting moment of the 5 minutes. For example, the core network device can determine that the moment when the first access network device just covered the TA is 8:00 based on the ephemeris information of the first access network device and the identifier of the second area. The core network device can then determine that the starting moment of the 5 minutes is 8:00. In this way, the fourth information sent by the core network device to the first access network device can indicate 8:00 to 8:05.

[0284] Based on the above solution, the core network device can instruct the access network device to page the terminal device a certain number of times and / or a certain duration of paging when the access network device covers the second area. In this way, the access network device can page the terminal device based on the number of paging times and / or the paging duration, thereby improving the success rate of the access network device's paging of the terminal device.

[0285] FIG4 is a schematic flow chart of another communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Method 400 can improve the efficiency of data transmission between a core network device and a terminal device. It should be noted that method 400 can be combined with any embodiment of method 300. An embodiment of method 400 is described below in conjunction with FIG4.

[0286] S410: A first access network device receives first data from a core network device, wherein the first data is data received by the first access network device before paging of the terminal device is completed and is to be sent to the terminal device. The first access network device covers a first area, and the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area. Correspondingly, before paging of the terminal device is completed, the core network device sends first data to the first access network device, and the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area. The first data is used by the first access network device to send to the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0287] The first data may be any data, and this application does not limit the first data. The first data is data sent by the core network device to the terminal device through the first access network device, so the first data may also be called downlink data.

[0288] For example, the first access network device receives an RRC connection setup complete message from the terminal device, indicating that the first access network device completes paging of the terminal device. For another example, the first access network device sends an RRC connection setup message to the terminal device, indicating that the first access network device completes paging of the terminal device. For another example, when the first access network device establishes an RRC connection with the terminal device, it indicates that the first access network device completes paging of the terminal device.

[0289] The meanings of other technical terms in the above S410 can be found in the embodiments related to S310 and will not be repeated here.

[0290] It should be noted that in some related technical solutions, the first data is received by the first access network device after the terminal device completes paging. Thus, the first access network device completes paging of the terminal device when it first covers the second area, then receives the first data, and then sends the first data to the terminal device when it covers the second area again. This indicates that in these related technical solutions, the data transmission efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device is low.

[0291] As an embodiment of a method 400 combined with method 300, the first data may be carried in the first information, or the first data and the first information may be carried in one signaling. In other embodiments, the first data and the second data may be carried in different signalings.

[0292] In other embodiments, if the storage space of the first access network device is insufficient to receive the first data, the first access network device does not receive the first data from the core network device. Furthermore, the first access network device may send a cause information to the core network device, indicating that insufficient storage space on the first access network device resulted in a caching failure of the first data. Accordingly, the core network device may receive the cause information from the first access network device.

[0293] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the core network device may determine to send the first information to the first access network device based on the cause information. That is, S310 is executed. In this way, although insufficient storage space on the first access network device prevents the core network device from sending downlink data to the terminal device via the first access network device, the terminal device may be paged via the first access network device. After the paging of the terminal device is complete, the terminal device may send uplink data to the core network device via the first access network device.

[0294] Furthermore, in other embodiments, the core network device may re-determine the first access network device based on the cause information. For example, in the aforementioned S410, RAN#1 is used. If RAN#1's storage space is insufficient to receive the first data, RAN#1 may send the cause information to the core network device. Based on the cause information, the core network device may determine another access network device (assuming it is RAN#2) to execute S410. Alternatively, the core network device may determine RAN#2 to execute S310.

[0295] If the storage space of RAN#2 is also insufficient and a cause message is also sent to the core network device, the core network device can determine RAN#2 to execute S310 based on the cause message, or determine another access network device (for example, RAN#3) to execute S410.

[0296] If RAN#3 also has insufficient storage space and has also sent a cause message to the core network device, the core network device can determine its behavior for RAN#3 based on the cause message (e.g., the processing for RAN#2 described above). If RAN#3 does not send a cause message to the core network device, or if RAN#3 sends an acknowledgment message to the core network device, the core network device can proceed to S420. In this manner, RAN#3 acts as the first access network device.

[0297] In some embodiments, the core network device may execute S310 and S410 simultaneously. In other words, the core network device may simultaneously send the first information and the first data to the first access network device. Alternatively, the difference between the time when S310 is executed and the time when S410 is executed is less than a preset threshold. The preset threshold may be related to the ephemeris information of the first access network device. For example, the shorter the duration that the first access network device covers the first area, the smaller the preset threshold.

[0298] In other embodiments, the core network device may execute S410 after S310 and before the first access network device leaves the first area (or does not cover the first area, or disconnects the power feed connection with the core network device). In other words, the core network device may send the first data to the first access network device after sending the first information to the first access network device and before the first access network device leaves the first area (or does not cover the first area, or disconnects the power feed connection with the core network device). In other words, the core network device may send the first information to the first access network device when the first access network device covers the first area (or has a power feed connection with the core network device) for the Nth time, and the core network device may send the first data to the first access network device when the first access network device covers the first area (or has a power feed connection with the core network device) for the Nth time.

[0299] S420: After the paging of the terminal device is completed and the first access network device covers the second area, the first access network device sends the first data to the terminal device.

[0300] The meanings of the technical terms in the above S420 can be found in the embodiments related to S320 and will not be repeated here.

[0301] In some embodiments, the core network device may send indication information when executing S410 and S310, and the indication information is used to indicate that the first information and the first data are associated. For example, the first information may carry the indication information, and the first data may carry the indication information. In this way, the first access network device may determine that the first information carrying the same indication information is associated with the first data. For another example, the indication information may include an identifier of the first information and an identifier of the first data, so that the first access network device may determine that the first information is associated with the first data based on the identifier in the indication information. The association between the first information and the first data can be understood as that the terminal device corresponding to the first information and the terminal device corresponding to the first data are the same, and the terminal device to be paged corresponding to the first information is the terminal device to which the first data is to be sent. The present application does not limit the specific content of the indication information. For example, the indication information may be a random number or other content.

[0302] As an example, when a first access network device is paging multiple terminal devices based on first information, it can send the indication information to the terminal device corresponding to the first information among the multiple terminal devices. When a terminal device corresponding to the first information is responding to the paging call from the first access network device, it can send the indication information to the first access network device. In this way, the first access network device can determine, based on the received indication information, that the indication information corresponds to first data, and send the first data to the terminal device that sent the indication information.

[0303] As another example, when a first access network device is paging multiple terminal devices based on a first message, it may send an identifier of the first message to the terminal device corresponding to the first message among the multiple terminal devices. When a terminal device corresponding to the first message is responding to the paging call from the first access network device, it may send the identifier of the first message to the first access network device. In this way, the first access network device can determine, based on the identifier and indication information of the received first message, that the identifier of the first message corresponds to the identifier of the first data, thereby determining that the data to be sent to the terminal device that sent the identifier of the first message is the first data.

[0304] Determine a terminal device corresponding to the indication information among multiple terminal devices, and send first data to the terminal device.

[0305] Based on the above solution, the core network device can send downlink data to be sent to the terminal device to the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed, which helps the access network device to send the downlink data to the terminal device as soon as possible after the paging of the terminal device is completed, thereby improving the data transmission efficiency between the core network device and the terminal device.

[0306] Optionally, in another implementation scenario of the above embodiment, method 400 further includes: the first access network device receiving second data from the terminal device; and the first access network device sending the second data to the core network device when the first access network device covers the first area. Correspondingly, method 400 further includes: the core network device receiving the second data from the first access network device.

[0307] Based on the above solution, the access network device can receive uplink data from the terminal device, and when the access network device covers the first area, transmit the uplink data to the core network device. The above solution enables the terminal device to perform uplink transmission through the access network device.

[0308] In some embodiments, a terminal device can simultaneously receive first data from a first access network device and transmit second data to the first access network device. In other words, the first access network device can simultaneously transmit first data to the terminal device and receive second data from the terminal device. In other words, the terminal device and the first access network device can simultaneously transmit the first data and the second data. Alternatively, the difference between the time the first data is transmitted and the time the second data is transmitted is less than a preset threshold, which can be related to the ephemeris information of the first access network device. For example, the shorter the duration that the first access network device covers the second area, the smaller the preset threshold.

[0309] In other embodiments, the terminal device may, after S420, send the second data to the first access network device before the first access network device leaves the second area (or does not cover the second area, or disconnects the service connection with the terminal device). In other words, the terminal device may send the second data to the first access network device after the paging is completed and before the first access network device leaves the second area (or does not cover the second area, or disconnects the service connection with the terminal device). In other words, the first access network device may send the first data to the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area for the Nth time (or has a service connection with the terminal device), and the terminal device may send the second data to the first access network device when the first access network device covers the second area for the Nth time (or has a service connection with the terminal device).

[0310] In some embodiments, when the terminal device sends the second data to the first access network device, it may also send the current ULI to the first access network device. The current ULI is used to indicate the location information of the terminal device when sending the second data. Afterwards, the first access network device may send the current ULI to the core network device while covering the first area. In this way, the core network device can determine the first access network device based on the current ULI when it needs to page the terminal device or send data to the terminal device next time, so that the first access network device can cover the current ULI, or can move faster to a position that can cover the current ULI, thereby optimizing the next paging or data transmission. Furthermore, the core network device can update the location information in the terminal device context to the current ULI.

[0311] Figure 5 is a schematic flow chart of another communication method 500 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Method 500 is an implementation of a combination of method 300 and method 400 and does not constitute a limitation of the present application. It should be noted that the AMF in Figure 5 can be replaced by an MME. In other words, the embodiment of the present application can be applied to 5G networks, 4G networks, and other communication systems. Method 500 is described in detail below in conjunction with Figure 5.

[0312] S501, AMF receives a service request from AF, where the service request is used to instruct transmission of downlink data to UE.

[0313] Exemplarily, the service request may include an identifier of the UE (eg, SUPI, SUCI, etc.), the first data, and the second information.

[0314] In some embodiments, the AF may send a service request to the NEF, and the NEF may send the service request to the AMF. For example, the AF may call the non-IP data delivery (NIDD) service through the Nnef service interface to send a service request to the NEF, and the NEF may call the message transfer service through the Namf service interface to send the service request to the AMF. The message transfer service may be a communication service between the N1 service interface and the N2 service interface, and the message transfer service may be a new service type. In this way, the NEF does not need to establish a session, and is indexed to the SMF through the session, and the SMF sends data to the AMF. Therefore, the above scheme improves communication efficiency.

[0315] S502: The AMF determines whether to perform an S&F operation on the UE.

[0316] For example, the AMF may determine whether the UE needs to perform an S&F operation (i.e., perform method 300) based on the configuration information of the UE. In other words, whether the UE needs to use an on-board store-and-forward operation.

[0317] The configuration information includes the UE's subscription information, RAT, or other information. For example, if the UE's subscription information indicates that the terminal device has subscribed to the S&F service, or indicates that the terminal device needs to use the S&F operation, the AMF determines that the S&F operation needs to be performed on the UE. For another example, if the UE's RAT is an S&F RAT, the AMF determines that the S&F operation needs to be performed on the UE.

[0318] It should be noted that the method 500 may also skip S501 and proceed directly to S502.

[0319] S503, AMF determines the first access network device.

[0320] For example, AMF can determine a first access network device among multiple access network devices based on the location information of the terminal device (or information called the second area) and the ephemeris information of multiple access network devices, and the first access network device is used to perform the S&F operation.

[0321] The terminal device's location information may include a ULI. Assume that the ULI includes TA#1, TA#2, and TA#3. That is, the second area where the terminal device is located may be TA#1, TA#2, or TA#3. In other words, when the access network device covers any one of TA#1, TA#2, or TA#3, the access network device can page or send data to the terminal device. Table 1 shows the core network device's determination of multiple access network devices.

[0322] Table 1

[0323] Refer to Table 1, which shows the information of three access network devices. Among them, RAN#3 only supports TA#4, or in other words, RAN#3 cannot cover any of TA#1, TA#2 or TA#3. Therefore, the core network device does not select RAN#3 as the first access network device. "First area -> second area" refers to the speed or duration of the access network device moving from the first area to the second area. The faster the speed or the shorter the duration, the higher the ranking. Referring to Table 1, RAN#3 takes the shortest time to move from the first area to the second area, RAN#1 takes the longest time to move from the first area to the second area, and RAN#2 takes the time to move from the first area to the second area between RAN#1 and RAN#3. "First area -> second area" can also be understood as the order in which the trajectory of the access network device passes through the area where the AMF is located and the area indicated by the ULI.

[0324] Since the time it takes for RAN#2 to move from the first area to the second area is shorter than the time it takes for RAN#1 to move from the first area to the second area, the AMF may prioritize RAN#2 as the first access network device. If RAN#2 is not suitable for the first access network device due to other reasons, the AMF may select RAN#1 as the first access network device. For example, if the storage space of RAN#2 is too low to perform the S&F operation, the AMF may select RAN#1 as the first access network device.

[0325] The AMF may determine the above-mentioned “supported TA” based on the NG setup request sent by the access network device, and the AMF may determine the above-mentioned “first area -> second area” based on the ephemeris information of the access network device.

[0326] In some embodiments, the AMF may also determine, based on the ephemeris information of the first access network device and the location information of the terminal device, the number of times and / or the duration of paging performed on the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area. For details, see the embodiment of method 300, which is not described here in detail.

[0327] S504: The AMF sends the first message and the first data to the first access network device. That is, S310 and S410 are executed. For details, refer to the embodiments of method 300 and method 400, which are not repeated here.

[0328] The first data sent by the AMF to the first access network device can be carried in a non-access stratum (NAS) message. In this way, the first access network device cannot know the specific content of the first data, thereby improving the security of data transmission.

[0329] Table 2 shows an implementation method of the first information. Table 2 is only exemplary and does not constitute a limitation to this application.

[0330] Table 2

[0331] Among them, the information element (IE) or group name includes multiple elements. Among them, the message type (message type), UE paging identity (paging identity) and TA list (TA list for paging) for paging can be found in the existing description and will not be repeated here. ULI can be used to instruct the first access network device to page the terminal device when it covers the area indicated by the ULI (i.e., the second area). ULI can also be regarded as the location information of the terminal device. ULI may include at least one of the TAI list, cell ID or geographic location information. The S&F indicator can be used to instruct the first access network device to perform an S&F operation on the first information. The existence form is mandatory (M), indicating that the IE or group name must exist in the first information; the existence form is optional (O), indicating that the IE or group name can exist in the first information. The above is only an example and does not constitute a limitation of this application.

[0332] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the AMF sending information indicating the number of paging times and / or the duration of the paging to the first access network device. That is, the AMF sends fourth information to the first access network device.

[0333] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the first access network device sending an S&FRAN indicator to the AMF during the NG setup process. Alternatively, when the first access network device establishes an initial connection with the AMF, the first access network device reports the S&FRAN indicator to the AMF. In this manner, the first message may not include the S&F indicator, and the AMF may assume that the first access network device is configured to perform S&F operations by default.

[0334] S505: The first access network device stores the first data and the paging message.

[0335] The paging message may be the first information (the first paging message) or the second paging message (the RRC message generated according to the first information).

[0336] In some embodiments, if the first access network device does not have sufficient storage space to receive the first data, the first access network device does not receive the first data from the core network device. Furthermore, the first access network device may send a cause information to the core network device, indicating that insufficient storage space on the first access network device resulted in a caching failure of the first data. Accordingly, the core network device may receive the cause information from the first access network device. For details, see the embodiment of method 400, which will not be further described here.

[0337] S506: The first access network device pages the UE according to the first information. That is, execute S320.

[0338] For example, the first access network device may broadcast a second paging message when covering the second area. The second paging message may carry an identifier of the UE.

[0339] S507: After the paging of the UE is completed, the first access network device sends the first data to the UE. That is, execute S420.

[0340] For example, the first access network device may send the first data to the UE through an RRC connection. The first data may be carried in a NAS message.

[0341] Methods S510 to S570 introduce a solution in which the core network device pages the UE through the first access network device and transmits downlink data to the UE. The following describes a solution for uplink transmission.

[0342] S508: The UE sends second data to the first access network device.

[0343] For example, the UE may send the second data to the first access network device via a service request connection. The second data may be carried in a NAS message.

[0344] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the UE sending a current ULI to the first access network device. The second data and the current ULI may be carried in the same message or in different messages, which is not limited in this application. In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the UE sending a UE identifier to the first access network device. The second data and the UE identifier may be carried in the same message or in different messages, which is not limited in this application.

[0345] S509: The first access network device stores the second data.

[0346] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the first access network device further storing an identifier of the current ULI or UE.

[0347] S510, the first access network device sends second data to the AMF when covering the first area.

[0348] In other words, the first access network device sends the second data to the AMF when the feeder link is connected. The second data can be carried in the NAS message.

[0349] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the first access network device further sending the current ULI or the UE identifier to the AMF. In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the AMF may update the current ULI to the location information in the UE context.

[0350] S511, AMF sends second data to AF.

[0351] In some embodiments, the method 500 further includes: the AMF sending the UE identifier to the AF. For example, the AMF may invoke a message transmission service via the Namf service interface to send a feedback message to the AMF. The feedback message includes the second data and may also include the UE identifier. The message transmission service may be a communication service between the N1 service interface and the N2 service interface, and the message transmission service may be a new service type. The NEF may invoke the NIDD service via the Nnef service interface to send the feedback message to the AF.

[0352] Figure 6 is a schematic flow chart of another communication method 600 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Method 600 is another implementation of the combination of method 300 and method 400 and does not constitute a limitation of the present application. It should be noted that the AMF in Figure 6 can be replaced by an MME. In other words, the embodiment of the present application can be applied to 5G networks, 4G networks, and other communication systems. Method 600 is described in detail below in conjunction with Figure 6.

[0353] At S504, the AMF sends a first message and first data to the first access network device. Method 600 differs from the embodiment of S504 in method 500 in that the first message does not include an S&F indicator. The remainder of this embodiment is similar to that of S504 in method 500 and is not further described here.

[0354] S601: The first access network device determines whether to perform an S&F operation. For details, refer to the method 300 in which the first access network device determines whether to perform an S&F operation, which will not be described in detail here.

[0355] The difference between method 600 and method 500 is that in method 600, the AMF does not determine and instruct the first access network device to perform the S&F operation, but the first access network device determines to perform the S&F operation on its own.

[0356] In some embodiments, method 600 further includes S505 to S511 .

[0357] Figure 7 is a schematic flowchart of a method 700 for determining a first access network device provided by an embodiment of the present application. Method 700 can be combined with at least one of method 300, method 400, method 500, or method 600. It should be noted that the AMF in Figure 7 can be replaced by an MME, and the UDM can be replaced by an HSS. In other words, the embodiment of the present application can be applied to 5G networks, 4G networks, and other communication systems. The embodiment of method 700 is described below in conjunction with Figure 7.

[0358] S701: Multiple access network devices each send storage space information to an AMF. It is understood that the storage space information sent by one of the multiple access network devices to the AMF indicates the remaining storage space of the access network device. There can be one or more AMFs. If there are multiple AMFs, the access network device sends the storage space information to the corresponding AMF.

[0359] S702: AMF sends the storage space information to UDM.

[0360] S703: The UDM stores the storage space information. It is understood that the UDM can manage the storage space information. There may be multiple AMFs, so the storage space information can be uniformly managed by the UDM.

[0361] S704: The AMF receives ephemeris information from the operation administration and maintenance (OAM). The ephemeris information may be ephemeris information of a constellation, and the access network devices connected by the ISL may be considered as a constellation.

[0362] S705: The AMF obtains the retention duration and quota information. For example, the retention duration and quota information may be in the UE configuration information. The AMF obtains the retention duration and quota information through the UE configuration information.

[0363] S706: The AMF determines the target access network device based on the ephemeris information and the retention time. The meaning of the retention time is described in the embodiment of method 300 and is not described here in detail.

[0364] For example, the AMF determines, based on the ephemeris information and the retention duration, a satellite path that can cover the second area within the retention duration. At least one target access network device operates on the satellite path. The at least one target access network device is connected by an ISL.

[0365] In some embodiments, the AMF may send satellite path information to each target access network device. The satellite path information is used to indicate the identifier of at least one target access network device and the order in which the at least one target access network device transmits data to each other via the ISL. The identifier of the at least one target access network device may be a satellite identifier or an identifier of an onboard base station. In this way, the at least one target access network device can transmit the first information, first data, or second data to each other based on the satellite path information.

[0366] S707: The AMF receives the storage space information from the UDM. In other words, the AMF obtains or queries the storage space information from the UDM.

[0367] S708, AMF determines the first access network device based on the storage space information and quota information.

[0368] It is understandable that the AMF can determine the first access network device in the target access network device based on the storage space information and the quota information. The storage space corresponding to the first access network device is greater than the quota information. In the case where there are multiple first access network devices, the storage space corresponding to each of these first access network devices is greater than the quota information.

[0369] Multiple access network devices transmit data to each other through ISL. The first access network device to receive data can be called the first-hop access network device, and the last access network device to receive data can be called the last-hop access network device. The last-hop access network device will send the data to the terminal device or core network device.

[0370] After S708, the method 700 further includes: the AMF sending updated storage space information to the UDM, wherein the updated storage space information is obtained by subtracting the quota information from the storage space before the update of the last-hop access network device.

[0371] It should be noted that the above-mentioned UDM can also be called UDR.

[0372] According to the above solution, the core network device can more accurately determine the first access network device, thereby improving the success rate of the core network device communicating with the terminal device through the first access network device.

[0373] Figure 8 is a schematic flow chart of another communication method 800 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Method 800 can be combined with at least one of method 300, method 400, method 500, method 600, or method 700. It should be noted that the AMF in Figure 8 can be replaced by an MME, and the UDM can be replaced by an HSS. In other words, the embodiment of the present application can be applied to 5G networks, 4G networks, and other communication systems. The embodiment of method 800 is described below in conjunction with Figure 8.

[0374] S801, AMF receives priority information from UDM.

[0375] For example, the priority information can be obtained from the configuration information of the UE (such as the subscription information). The priority information can indicate the priority of forwarding data to the UE. The priority information can also be understood as indicating the S&F forwarding priority.

[0376] For example, a UE that is more sensitive to execution delay and packet loss rate may correspond to priority information with a higher priority.

[0377] S802, AMF sends a priority indication to the first access network device.

[0378] The priority indication may indicate the priority of the first access network device forwarding data to the UE.

[0379] For example, the priority indication can be carried in an N3 data packet and sent to the first access network device. In other words, the priority indication can be carried in the same signaling as the downlink data. For another example, the priority indication can be sent via separate signaling. In other words, the priority indication can be decoupled from the downlink data and not sent in the same signaling.

[0380] In some embodiments, the AMF may determine whether to execute S802 based on the priority information. That is, even if the priority information indicates a higher priority, the AMF may determine not to send the priority indication to the first access network device, so that the UE corresponding to the priority information cannot obtain a higher forwarding data priority.

[0381] In some embodiments, after the first access network device receives the priority indication from the AMF, if the first access network device has insufficient storage space, the first access network device may not receive the lower priority data. Alternatively, the first access network device may reject the lower priority data.

[0382] The following is an introduction to the device embodiment corresponding to the method embodiment of the present application. The following is only a brief introduction to the device, and the specific implementation steps and details of the solution can be referred to the method embodiment above.

[0383] To implement the various functions of the methods provided herein, both terminal devices and network devices may include hardware structures and / or software modules, with the aforementioned functions implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular function is implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0384] Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device 900 according to an embodiment of the present application. The communication device 900 includes a processor 910 and a communication interface 920, which may be interconnected via a bus 930. The communication device 900 may be a core network device or an access network device.

[0385] Optionally, the communication device 900 may further include a memory 940. The memory 940 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 940 is used for related instructions and data. The memory 940 may be integrated with the processor 910 or provided separately.

[0386] The processor 910 may be one or more central processing units (CPUs). In the case where the processor 910 is a CPU, the CPU may be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU. The processor 910 may be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit that can implement the method of the present application, or a portion of the circuitry used for processing functions in the aforementioned processor, chip, or integrated circuit. In addition, the communication interface 920 may also be an input / output interface, which is used for inputting or outputting signals or data, or may be an input / output circuit.

[0387] When the communication device 900 is a core network device, exemplarily, the processor 910 is used to perform the following operations: sending first information to a first access network device, the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area; the first information is used to trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device, and the terminal device is located in the second area, wherein the first information is used by the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0388] When the communication device 900 is an access network device, exemplarily, the processor 910 is used to perform the following operations: receive first information from a core network device, wherein the access network device covers a first area, and the first information is used to trigger the access network device to page a terminal device, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; based on the first information, the terminal device is paged when the access network device covers the second area.

[0389] When the communication device 900 is a core network device, exemplarily, the processor 910 is used to perform the following operations: before the paging of the terminal device is completed, sending first data to the first access network device, wherein the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device, the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area, the terminal device is located in the second area, and the first area is different from the second area; wherein the first data is used by the first access network device to send to the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0390] When the communication device 900 is an access network device, exemplarily, the processor 910 is used to perform the following operations: receive first data from a core network device, wherein the first data is data received by the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed and is to be sent to the terminal device, the access network device covers a first area, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; after the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area, the first data is sent to the terminal device.

[0391] The above contents are merely exemplary descriptions. When the communication device 900 is a core network device or an access network device, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the core network device or the access network device in the above method embodiments.

[0392] It is understood that when the communication device 900 is a core network device or an access network device, the communication interface 920 may also be referred to as a transceiver. The transceiver may include a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter is configured to perform a transmission operation and the receiver is configured to perform a reception operation. For example, the processor 910 is configured to control the transceiver to receive and / or transmit signals.

[0393] It should be noted that the communication device 900 may include a transmitter but not a receiver. Alternatively, the communication device 900 may include a receiver but not a transmitter. The specific implementation depends on whether the above solution executed by the communication device 900 includes a sending action and a receiving action.

[0394] The above description is merely exemplary. For details, please refer to the contents of the above method embodiments. The implementation of each operation in FIG9 may also correspond to the corresponding description of the method embodiments shown in FIG3 to FIG8.

[0395] For example, the communication device 900 may be used to implement the solution shown in FIG. 3 or FIG. 4 .

[0396] When the communication apparatus 900 is a core network device: the communication interface 920 is used to send the first information to the first access network device.

[0397] When the communication device 900 is an access network device: the communication interface 920 is used to receive first information from the core network device; the processor 910 is used to page the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0398] In the case where the communication apparatus 900 is a core network device: the communication interface 920 is configured to send the first data to the first access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed.

[0399] When the communication device 900 is an access network device: the communication interface 920 is used to receive the first data from the core network device; the processor 910 is used to send the first data to the terminal device after the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area.

[0400] For other implementations, please refer to the detailed description of the embodiment shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4 above, which will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the specific process of each component performing the above corresponding process has been detailed in the above method embodiment, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0401] Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present application. Communication device 1000 may be a core network device or an access network device, or may be a chip or module within the core network device or the access network device, and is configured to implement the methods described in the embodiments of Figures 3 to 8. For details, please refer to the relevant descriptions of the aforementioned method embodiments.

[0402] The communication device 1000 includes a transceiver unit 1010. The transceiver unit 1010 is described below by way of example.

[0403] The transceiver unit 1010 may include a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit is used to perform the transmitting operation of the communication device, and the receiving unit is used to perform the receiving operation of the communication device. For ease of description, the embodiment of the present application combines the transmitting unit and the receiving unit into a single transceiver unit. This is described here for a unified explanation and will not be repeated later. The transceiver unit 1010 can implement corresponding communication functions. The transceiver unit 1010 can also be referred to as a communication interface or communication module.

[0404] It should be noted that the communication device 1000 may include a sending unit but not a receiving unit. Alternatively, the communication device 1000 may include a receiving unit but not a sending unit. The specific implementation depends on whether the above solution executed by the communication device 1000 includes a sending action and a receiving action.

[0405] When the communication apparatus 1000 is a core network device, illustratively, the transceiver unit 1010 is configured to send first information, etc., to a first access network device.

[0406] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a processing unit 1020, which is used to execute the content of steps involving processing, coordination, etc. of the core network device.

[0407] When the communication apparatus 1000 is an access network device, illustratively, the transceiver unit 1010 is configured to receive first information from a core network device.

[0408] Optionally, the communication apparatus 1000 may further include a processing unit 1020 configured to execute steps such as processing and coordination related to the access network device.

[0409] When the communication apparatus 1000 is a core network device, illustratively, the transceiver unit 1010 is configured to send first data, etc. to a first access network device.

[0410] Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a processing unit 1020, which is used to execute the content of steps involving processing, coordination, etc. of the core network device.

[0411] When the communication apparatus 1000 is an access network device, illustratively, the transceiver unit 1010 is used to receive first data from a core network device, etc.

[0412] Optionally, the communication apparatus 1000 may further include a processing unit 1020 configured to execute steps such as processing and coordination related to the access network device.

[0413] The above contents are merely exemplary descriptions. When the communication apparatus 1000 is a core network device or an access network device, it will be responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the core network device or the access network device in the above method embodiments.

[0414] Optionally, the communication device 1000 further includes a storage unit 1030, which is used to store a program or code for executing the aforementioned method. In other words, the storage unit 1030 can be used to store instructions and / or data, and the processing unit 1020 can read the instructions and / or data in the storage unit 1030 to enable the communication device 1000 to implement the aforementioned method embodiment. For example, the communication device 1000 can be used to implement the solution shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4.

[0415] When the communication device 1000 is a core network device: the transceiver unit 1010 is used to send first information to the first access network device, and the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area; the first information is used to trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device, and the terminal device is located in the second area, wherein the first information is used by the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0416] When the communication device 1000 is an access network device: the transceiver unit 1010 is used to receive first information from a core network device, wherein the access network device covers a first area, and the first information is used to trigger the access network device to page the terminal device, and the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; the processing unit 1020 is used to page the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area.

[0417] In the case where the communication device 1000 is a core network device: the transceiver unit 1010 is used to send first data to the first access network device, wherein the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device, the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area, the terminal device is located in the second area, and the first area is different from the second area; wherein the first data is used by the first access network device to send to the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

[0418] When the communication device 1000 is an access network device: the transceiver unit 1010 is used to receive first data from the core network device, wherein the first data is data received by the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed and is to be sent to the terminal device, the access network device covers a first area, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; the processing unit 1020 is used to send the first data to the terminal device after the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area.

[0419] For other implementations, please refer to the detailed description of the embodiment shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4 above, which will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the specific process of each component performing the above corresponding process has been detailed in the above method embodiment, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

[0420] The device embodiments shown in Figures 9 and 10 are used to implement the contents described in Figures 3 to 8. The specific execution steps and methods of the devices shown in Figures 9 and 10 can refer to the contents described in the above method embodiments.

[0421] The present application further provides an apparatus 1100, which may be a core network device, a processor in the core network device, or a chip. The apparatus 1100 may be used to execute the operations performed by the core network device in the above method embodiment.

[0422] When apparatus 1100 is a core network device, FIG11 shows a simplified schematic diagram of the core network device structure. As shown in FIG11 , the core network device includes a processor, a memory, and a transceiver. The memory can store computer program code, and the transceiver includes a transmitter 1131, a receiver 1132, a radio frequency circuit (not shown), and an antenna 1133.

[0423] The processor is mainly used to process communication protocols and communication data; control core network equipment, execute software programs and process software program data, etc.

[0424] Memory is mainly used to store software programs and data.

[0425] Radio frequency circuits are mainly used for conversion between baseband signals and radio frequency signals and for processing radio frequency signals.

[0426] Antennas are mainly used to send and receive radio frequency signals in the form of electromagnetic waves.

[0427] When data needs to be sent, the processor performs baseband processing on the data to be transmitted and outputs the baseband signal to the RF circuit. The RF circuit then performs RF processing on the baseband signal and transmits it via the antenna in the form of electromagnetic waves. When data is sent to the core network device, the RF circuit receives the RF signal via the antenna. The RF circuit converts the RF signal into a baseband signal and outputs the baseband signal to the processor. The processor converts the baseband signal into data and processes the data. For ease of illustration, Figure 10 shows only one memory, processor, and transceiver. In actual core network device products, one or more processors and one or more memories may be present. Memory may also be referred to as storage medium or storage device. The memory may be independent of the processor or integrated with the processor, and this is not limited in this embodiment of the present application.

[0428] Sections 1110 and 1120 may include one or more boards, each of which may include one or more processors and one or more memories. The processor is used to read and execute programs in the memory to implement baseband processing functions and control device 1100. If multiple boards are present, the boards may be interconnected to enhance processing capabilities. As an alternative embodiment, multiple boards may share one or more processors, multiple boards may share one or more memories, or multiple boards may simultaneously share one or more processors.

[0429] In the embodiment of the present application, the antenna and radio frequency circuit with transceiver functions can be regarded as the transceiver module of the core network device, and the processor with processing function can be regarded as the processing module of the core network device.

[0430] As shown in Figure 11, the core network device includes a processor 1110, a memory 1120, and a transceiver 1130. The processor 1110 may also be referred to as a processing unit, a processing board, a processing module, or a processing device. The transceiver 1130 may also be referred to as a transceiver unit, a transceiver, or a transceiver device.

[0431] Optionally, the device in transceiver 1130 that implements the receiving function is considered a receiving module, and the device in transceiver 1130 that implements the transmitting function is considered a transmitting module. That is, transceiver 1130 includes a receiver and a transmitter. A transceiver may also be sometimes referred to as a transceiver, a transceiver module, or a transceiver circuit. A receiver may also be sometimes referred to as a receiver, a receiving module, or a receiving circuit. A transmitter may also be sometimes referred to as a transmitter, a transmitting module, or a transmitting circuit.

[0432] The processor 1110 is configured to execute the processing actions on the core network device side in the embodiment shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4. The transceiver 1130 is configured to execute the transceiver actions on the core network device side in the embodiment shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4.

[0433] When the apparatus 1100 is a chip, the chip includes a processor, a memory, and a transceiver. The transceiver may be an input / output circuit or a communication interface. The processor may be a processing module, a microprocessor, or an integrated circuit integrated on the chip. The sending operation of the core network device in the above method embodiment can be understood as the chip's output, and the receiving operation of the core network device in the above method embodiment can be understood as the chip's input.

[0434] The present application further provides an apparatus 1200, which may be an access network device or a chip of the access network device. The apparatus 1200 may be used to perform the operations performed by the access network device in the embodiments shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 8 .

[0435] Figure 12 shows a simplified structural diagram. Apparatus 1200 includes part 1210, part 1220, and part 1230.

[0436] Part 1210 is mainly used for baseband processing, etc.; Part 1210 is usually the control center of the device 1200, which can usually be called a processor, and is used to control the device 1200 to perform the processing operations on the access network device side in the above method embodiment.

[0437] Part 1220 is mainly used to store computer program code and data.

[0438] Part 1230 is primarily used for receiving and transmitting radio frequency signals and converting radio frequency signals into baseband signals. Part 1230 can generally be referred to as a transceiver module, transceiver, transceiver circuit, or transceiver. The transceiver module in part 1230, which can also be referred to as a transceiver or transceiver, includes an antenna 1233 and a radio frequency circuit (not shown in the figure), wherein the radio frequency circuit is primarily used for radio frequency processing. Optionally, the device used to implement the receiving function in part 1230 can be considered a receiver, and the device used to implement the transmitting function can be considered a transmitter, that is, part 1230 includes a receiver 1232 and a transmitter 1231. A receiver can also be referred to as a receiving module, a receiver, or a receiving circuit, and a transmitter can be referred to as a transmitting module, a transmitter, or a transmitting circuit.

[0439] Sections 1210 and 1220 may include one or more boards, each of which may include one or more processors and one or more memories. The processor is used to read and execute programs in the memory to implement baseband processing functions and control device 1200. If multiple boards are present, the boards may be interconnected to enhance processing capabilities. As an optional implementation, multiple boards may share one or more processors, multiple boards may share one or more memories, or multiple boards may simultaneously share one or more processors.

[0440] For example, in one implementation, the transceiver module in section 1230 is used to execute the transceiver-related processes performed by the access network device in the embodiment shown in FIG3 or FIG4. The processor in section 1210 is used to execute the processing-related processes performed by the access network device in the embodiment shown in FIG3 or FIG4.

[0441] When apparatus 1200 is a chip, the chip includes a transceiver, memory, and a processor. The transceiver may be an input / output circuit or a communication interface; the processor may be a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. The sending operation of the access network device in the above method embodiment can be understood as the chip's output, and the receiving operation of the access network device in the above method embodiment can be understood as the chip's input.

[0442] The present application also provides a communication device, including a processor and a memory, wherein the memory is used to store instructions, and the processor is used to call and run the instructions stored in the memory, so that the communication device executes the methods of the access network device or core network device or terminal device in the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0443] The present application also provides a chip, including a processor, for calling and executing instructions stored in a memory from the memory, so that a communication device equipped with the chip executes the methods in the above embodiments.

[0444] The present application also provides another chip, comprising: an input interface, an output interface, and a processor, wherein the input interface, the output interface, and the processor are connected via an internal connection path, and the processor is configured to execute code in a memory. When the code is executed, the processor is configured to perform the methods described in each of the above embodiments. Optionally, the chip also includes a memory configured to store computer programs or code.

[0445] The present application also provides a processor for coupling with a memory, and for executing the methods and functions involving a core network device or an access network device in any of the above embodiments.

[0446] In another embodiment of the present application, a computer program product including a computer program or instructions is provided. When the computer program product is run on a computer, the method of the aforementioned embodiment is implemented.

[0447] The present application also provides a computer program. When the computer program is executed in a computer, the methods of the aforementioned embodiments are implemented.

[0448] In another embodiment of the present application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a computer, the methods of the aforementioned embodiments are implemented.

[0449] The present application also provides a communication system, which may include a first access network device and a core network device. The first access network device may be configured to perform the operations performed by the access network device in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 8 above, and the core network device may be configured to perform the operations performed by the core network device in the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 8 above.

[0450] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional and technical personnel can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0451] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0452] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely schematic. For example, the division of the units is merely a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units, which can be electrical, mechanical or other forms.

[0453] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of these units may be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0454] In addition, each functional unit in each embodiment of the present application may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

[0455] If the functions are implemented in the form of software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or the part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. The computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions for enabling a computer device (which can be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in each embodiment of the present application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media that can store program codes, such as a USB flash drive, a mobile hard disk, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a magnetic disk, or an optical disk.

[0456] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present application, but the scope of protection of the present application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included in the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that: include: An access network device receives first information from a core network device, wherein the access network device covers a first area, the first information is used to trigger the access network device to page a terminal device, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; The access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also includes: After the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area, the access network device sends first data to the terminal device, where the first data is data received by the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed and is to be sent to the terminal device.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives second data from the terminal device; The access network device sends the second data to the core network device when the access network device covers the first area.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that The second area is a tracking area, a cell or a geographical area.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives second information from the core network device, where the second information is used to instruct to page the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area; wherein, The access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area includes: The access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information and the second information when the access network device covers the second area.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device determines, based on third information, to page the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area, wherein the third information includes information about the second area; wherein, The access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area includes: The access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information and the third information when the access network device covers the second area.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives fourth information from the core network device, where the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of paging performed by the access network device on the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area; The access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area includes: The access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information and the fourth information when the access network device covers the second area.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device sends fifth information to the core network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the access network device has a storage and forwarding capability.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device sends sixth information to the core network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate a storage space of the access network device.

11. A communication method, characterized in that: include: The core network device sends first information to the first access network device, where the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is the first area; The first information is used to trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device, and the terminal device is located in the second area. The first information is used by the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that The first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

13. The method according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that: Also includes: The core network device sends first data to the first access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed, wherein the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device.

14. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device receives second data from the first access network device.

15. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that The second area is a tracking area, a cell or a geographical area.

16. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device sends second information to the first access network device, where the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the first access network device covers the second area.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device based on the configuration information of the terminal device.

18. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that Before the core network device sends the first information to the first access network device within the first time period, the method further includes: The core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device based on the ephemeris information.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that The core network device determines, according to the ephemeris information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device, including: The core network device determines, according to the ephemeris information, that a duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to a duration threshold; The core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that The duration threshold is the duration of time for the second access network device to move from the first area to the second area, wherein the second access network device is one of a plurality of access network devices whose current coverage area is the first area, and the first access network device is one of the plurality of access network devices; or, The duration threshold is the duration for which the first access network device retains the first information.

21. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 20, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device sends fourth information to the first access network device, where the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the first access network device on the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

22. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 21, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device receives fifth information from the first access network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the first access network device has a storage and forwarding capability.

23. The method according to any one of claims 11 to 22, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device receives sixth information from the first access network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate a storage space of the first access network device.

24. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that Before the core network device sends the first information to the first access network device, the method further includes: The core network device determines that the storage space can store data to be sent to the terminal device.

25. A communication method, characterized in that: include: The access network device receives first data from the core network device, wherein the first data is data received by the access network device before the paging of the terminal device is completed and is to be sent to the terminal device, the access network device covers a first area, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; After the paging of the terminal device is completed and the access network device covers the second area, the access network device sends the first data to the terminal device.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives first information from the core network device, wherein the first information is used to trigger the access network device to page the terminal device; The access network device pages the terminal device based on the first information when the access network device covers the second area.

27. The method according to claim 26, characterized in that The first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

28. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives second data from the terminal device; The access network device sends the second data to the core network device when the access network device covers the first area.

29. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 28, characterized in that The second area is a tracking area, a cell or a geographical area.

30. The method according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives second information from the core network device, where the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the access network device covers the second area; wherein, The access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area includes: The access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information and the second information when the access network device covers the second area.

31. The method according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device determines, based on third information, to page the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area, wherein the third information includes information about the second area; wherein, The access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area includes: The access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information and the third information when the access network device covers the second area.

32. The method according to claim 26 or 27, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device receives fourth information from the core network device, where the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of paging performed by the access network device on the terminal device when the access network device covers the second area; The access network device paging the terminal device according to the first information when the access network device covers the second area includes: The access network device pages the terminal device according to the first information and the fourth information when the access network device covers the second area.

33. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 32, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device sends fifth information to the core network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the access network device has a storage and forwarding capability.

34. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 33, characterized in that Also includes: The access network device sends sixth information to the core network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate a storage space of the access network device.

35. A communication method, characterized in that: include: Before the paging of the terminal device is completed, the core network device sends first data to the first access network device, wherein the first data is data to be sent to the terminal device, the current coverage area of ​​the first access network device is a first area, the terminal device is located in a second area, and the first area is different from the second area; The first data is used by the first access network device to send to the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

36. The method according to claim 35, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device sends first information to the first access network device, where the first information is used to trigger the first access network device to page the terminal device, wherein the first information is used by the first access network device to page the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

37. The method according to claim 36, characterized in that The first information includes an identifier of the terminal device and an identifier of the second area.

38. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 37, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device receives second data from the first access network device.

39. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 38, characterized in that The second area is a tracking area, a cell or a geographical area.

40. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 39, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device sends second information to the first access network device, where the second information is used to indicate that the terminal device is to be paged when the first access network device covers the second area.

41. The method according to claim 40, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device determines to send the second information to the first access network device based on the configuration information of the terminal device.

42. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 41, characterized in that Before the core network device sends the first data to the first access network device, the method further includes: The core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device based on the ephemeris information.

43. The method according to claim 42, characterized in that The core network device determines, according to the ephemeris information, to page the terminal device through the first access network device, including: The core network device determines, according to the ephemeris information, that a duration for the first access network device to move from the first area to the second area is less than or equal to a duration threshold; The core network device determines to page the terminal device through the first access network device.

44. The method according to claim 43, characterized in that The duration threshold is the duration of time for the second access network device to move from the first area to the second area, wherein the second access network device is one of a plurality of access network devices whose current coverage area is the first area, and the first access network device is one of the plurality of access network devices; or, The duration threshold is the duration for which the first access network device retains the first data.

45. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 44, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device sends fourth information to the first access network device, where the fourth information is used to indicate the number of times and / or the duration of the paging performed by the first access network device on the terminal device when the first access network device covers the second area.

46. ​​The method according to any one of claims 35 to 45, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device receives fifth information from the first access network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate that the first access network device has a storage and forwarding capability.

47. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 46, characterized in that Also includes: The core network device receives sixth information from the first access network device, where the sixth information is used to indicate a storage space of the first access network device.

48. The method according to claim 47, characterized in that Before the core network device sends the first data to the first access network device, the method further includes: The core network device determines that the storage space can store data to be sent to the terminal device.

49. A communication device, characterized in that: It comprises a processing circuit and an input-output interface, the input-output interface is used to input and / or output signals, the processing circuit is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 1 to 10, or the processing circuit is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 11 to 24, or the processing circuit is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 25 to 34, or the processing circuit is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 35 to 48.

50. A communication device, characterized in that: include: A processor, wherein the processor is used to execute a computer program or instruction so that the method of any one of claims 1 to 10 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 11 to 24 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 25 to 34 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 35 to 48 is executed.

51. The device according to claim 50, characterized in that Also includes: A memory is used to store the computer program or the instructions.

52. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that: The computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions. When the computer program or the instructions are executed, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 10 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 11 to 24 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 25 to 34 is executed, or the method according to any one of claims 35 to 48 is executed.

53. A computer program product, characterized in that Comprising a computer program or instructions, which, when executed, implements the method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10, or implements the method as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 24, or implements the method as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 34, or implements the method as claimed in any one of claims 35 to 48.

54. A communication system, characterized in that: include: A first access network device and a core network device, wherein the first access network device is used to execute the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, and the core network device is used to execute the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 24; or, the first access network device is used to execute the method as described in any one of claims 25 to 34, and the core network device is used to execute the method as described in any one of claims 35 to 48.

55. A communication device, characterized in that: It comprises at least one module or at least one unit, and the at least one module or the at least one unit is used to execute the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, or the method as described in any one of claims 11 to 24, or the method as described in any one of claims 25 to 34, or the method as described in any one of claims 35 to 48.

56. A chip device, characterized in that: include: A processor, wherein the processor is used to execute a computer program or instruction so that the method of any one of claims 1 to 10 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 11 to 24 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 25 to 34 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 35 to 48 is executed.

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