Communication method and apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application relate to the technical field of communications, and provide a communication method and apparatus. The communication method comprises: in a regenerative mode, when receiving a first message from a first terminal device, a network device in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) generates first user location information of the first terminal device, wherein the first message is used for acquiring a core network service, and the first user location information is used for indicating the location of the first terminal device; the network device can further send a second message to a core network device by means of a feeder link, wherein the second message comprises the first user location information; and after receiving the second message, the core network device can provide a service to the first terminal device on the basis of the second message. In this way, when receiving the first message of the first terminal device, the network device generates the first user location information of the first terminal device, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the location information of the first terminal device sent to the core network device.

Description

A communication method and apparatus

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202311459729.0, filed on November 3, 2023, entitled "A Communication Method and Apparatus", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0004] In non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) operating in regenerative mode (or regenerative payload), where power supply is discontinuous, the connection (feeder link) between non-terrestrial network devices (i.e., non-terrestrial base stations, or satellite base stations) and the core network is not always continuous. Specifically, when a non-terrestrial network device is connected to a terminal device via a service link, there is no feeder link between the non-terrestrial network device and the core network; similarly, when a non-terrestrial network device is connected to the core network, there is no connection between the non-terrestrial network device and the terminal device. Thus, the process by which a terminal device obtains services from the core network through a non-terrestrial network device is as follows: When the non-terrestrial network device connects to the terminal device, it receives request information from the terminal device. When the non-terrestrial network device connects to the core network device, it sends the generated user location information (ULI) and request information to the core network, which then provides services to the terminal device. Since non-terrestrial network devices send the generated ULI to the core network some time after receiving the request information, and terminal devices are mobile, non-terrestrial network devices cannot guarantee that the ULI sent to the core network device indicates the accurate location of the terminal device.

[0005] In this scenario, ensuring that network devices send accurate user location information to core network devices remains to be addressed.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for use in regeneration mode, whereby the location information obtained by the core network device from the network device is accurate for the terminal device.

[0008] Firstly, this application provides a communication method that can be executed by a network device in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in regenerable mode or by a module (such as a chip) applied to the network device. Taking the execution of the method by a network device as an example, the method includes:

[0009] Upon receiving a first message from a first terminal device, the network device can generate first user location information for the first terminal device. The first message is used to obtain core network services, and the first user location information is used to indicate the location of the first terminal device. The network device can also send a second message to the core network device via a power supply link, the second message containing the first user location information.

[0010] In this method, when the network device receives the first message from the first terminal device, it generates the first user location information of the first terminal device, ensuring that the network device can accurately determine the location of the first terminal device. When the power supply link exists, the network device sends a second message containing the first user location information to the core network device via the power supply link, enabling the core network device to provide services to the first terminal device based on its accurate location.

[0011] In one possible design, the network device can generate the first user location information based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. Here, the first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device.

[0012] Through this design, network devices can bind the location of the first terminal device with the mapped cell identifier and the tracking area identifier, thereby accurately determining the location of the first terminal device.

[0013] In one possible design, the network device can also generate a second message carrying the first user's location information.

[0014] This design allows network devices to accurately generate the location information of the first terminal device.

[0015] In one possible design, the network device stores the first user location information after generating it.

[0016] With this design, network devices can send the stored first user location information to the core network device via the power supply link when the power supply link is connected, thereby ensuring that the network devices send accurate first terminal device location information to the core network device.

[0017] In one possible design, the second message also includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

[0018] Through this design, the core network equipment can provide accurate services to the first terminal equipment based on the first message.

[0019] In one possible design, the network device is an on-board network device, and the second message also includes indication information indicating that the network device is an on-board network device.

[0020] Through this design, network devices can inform core network devices that they are on-board network devices, thereby enabling core network devices to perform corresponding operations.

[0021] Secondly, this application provides a communication method, which can be executed by a core network device or a module (such as a chip) applied in the core network device. Taking the execution of the method by a core network device as an example, the method includes:

[0022] The core network device receives a second message from the network device. The second message includes first user location information, which indicates the location of the first terminal device. The core network device can then provide services to the first terminal device based on the second message.

[0023] In this method, the core network device receives accurate location information of the first terminal device from the network device, thereby providing services to the first terminal device.

[0024] In one possible design, before providing services to the first terminal device, the core network equipment can also determine that the network device is an on-board network device and that the satellite on which the network device is located is in regeneration mode. The core network equipment can also determine, based on the first user's location information, that the location of the first terminal device does not coincide with the location of the gateway station to which the network device is connected.

[0025] Through this design, the core network equipment can determine that the first user location information received from the network equipment indicates the location of the first terminal device, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the location information of the first terminal device obtained by the core network equipment.

[0026] In one possible design, the core network device can also obtain the identification information of the network device. When the identification information of the pre-configured on-board network device includes the identification information of the network device, the core network device can identify the on-board network device.

[0027] Through this design, the core network equipment can identify the network equipment as an on-board network device, thereby enabling accurate judgment of the location information of the first terminal device.

[0028] In one possible design, the second message also includes indication information used to indicate that the network device is an on-board network device.

[0029] Through this design, the core network equipment can identify the network equipment as an on-board network equipment, and thus determine the accuracy of the location information of the first terminal equipment.

[0030] In one possible design, the second message also includes the first message, which is used to obtain core network services and includes the public land mobile network of the first terminal device.

[0031] This design enables the core network equipment to accurately provide services to the first terminal equipment.

[0032] Thirdly, this application provides a communication method that can be executed by a network device in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in regenerable mode or by a module (such as a chip) applied to the network device. Taking the execution of the method by a network device as an example, the method includes:

[0033] The network device can receive a first message from the first terminal device, which is used to obtain core network services. The network device can also send a second message to the core network device via the power supply link. The second message includes a first timestamp, which is used to determine the user location information of the first terminal device.

[0034] In this method, the network device can send a first timestamp to the core network device so that the core network device can determine the location of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp, thereby ensuring that the core network device obtains the accurate location of the first terminal device.

[0035] In one possible design, the first timestamp is used to indicate when the network device receives the first message.

[0036] With this design, at the time of the first timestamp, the first terminal device and the network device are in the same cell, so the core network device can determine the accurate location of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp.

[0037] In one possible design, the first message includes a first timestamp, which indicates the time when the first terminal device sent the first message.

[0038] With this design, at the time of the first timestamp, the first terminal device and the network device are in the same cell, so the core network device can determine the accurate location of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp.

[0039] In one possible design, the second message also includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device, and the network device is an on-board network device.

[0040] With this design, the core network equipment can accurately provide services to the first terminal equipment based on the second message.

[0041] In one possible design, before sending the second message to the core network device via the power supply link, the network device may also send a third message to the core network device. The third message is used to establish a connection with the core network device. The third message includes the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp.

[0042] With this design, network devices can send mapped cell identifiers and tracking area identifiers to core network devices, so that core network devices can accurately determine the location of the first terminal device based on the mapped cell identifiers and tracking area identifiers.

[0043] Fourthly, this application provides a communication method, which can be executed by a core network device or a module (such as a chip) applied in the core network device. Taking the execution of the method by a core network device as an example, the method includes:

[0044] The core network device can receive a second message from the network device, the second message including a first timestamp. The core network device can also determine the first user location information of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp, the first user location information indicating the location of the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp. When the location indicated by the first user location information is within the service range of the core network device, the core network device can provide services to the first terminal device.

[0045] In this method, the core network device can accurately determine the location of the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp based on the first timestamp. When the location of the first terminal device is within the service range of the core network device, the core network device can provide services to the first terminal device.

[0046] In one possible design, the core network device can also receive a third message from the network device. This third message is used to establish a connection with the core network device. The third message includes the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp. The core network device can determine the location information of the first user based on the third message.

[0047] With this design, core network equipment can accurately determine the location information of the first terminal device based on the tracking area identifier and mapped cell identifier sent by the network equipment.

[0048] In one possible design, the core network device can also determine the satellite's position at the time indicated by the first timestamp based on the ephemeris information of the satellite to which the network device is located. The core network device then determines the mapping cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs, based on the satellite's position and the correspondence between the mapping cell identifier and the geographical location. Here, the first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp. The core network device can determine the location information of the first user based on the mapping cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs.

[0049] This design allows core network equipment to determine the satellite location of the network equipment at the time indicated by the first timestamp. Based on the satellite location, the core network equipment can determine the first cell that the first terminal device was accessing at the time indicated by the first timestamp. Furthermore, the core network equipment can accurately determine the location of the first terminal device based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs.

[0050] In one possible design, the second message also includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

[0051] This design enables the core network equipment to provide accurate services to the first terminal equipment.

[0052] Fifthly, this application also provides a communication device, which can be a network device in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in regenerative mode, having the functions of the network devices in the various possible design examples of the first or third aspects described above. The functions can be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more units corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0053] In one possible design, the communication device may include a transceiver unit and a processing unit. These units can perform the corresponding functions of the network device in the various possible design examples of the first or third aspect described above, as detailed in the method examples, which will not be repeated here.

[0054] In one possible design, the communication device includes interface circuitry and one or more processors. Optionally, the communication device also includes a memory. The interface circuitry is used for transmitting and receiving data, and for communicating with other devices in the communication system. The one or more processors are configured to support the communication device in performing the corresponding functions of the network device in the various possible design examples of the first or third aspect described above. The memory is coupled to the one or more processors and stores the necessary program instructions and data for the communication device.

[0055] Sixthly, this application also provides a communication device, which can be a core network device having the functions of the core network device in the various possible design examples of the second or fourth aspects described above. The functions can be implemented in hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more units corresponding to the aforementioned functions.

[0056] In one possible design, the communication device may include a transceiver unit and a processing unit. These units can perform the corresponding functions of the core network equipment in the various possible design examples in the second or fourth aspect above, as detailed in the method examples, which will not be repeated here.

[0057] In one possible design, the communication device includes interface circuitry and one or more processors. Optionally, the communication device also includes a memory. The interface circuitry is used for transmitting and receiving data, and for communicating with other devices in the communication system. The one or more processors are configured to support the communication device in performing the corresponding functions of the core network equipment in the various possible design examples of the second or fourth aspects described above. The memory is coupled to the one or more processors and stores the necessary program instructions and data for the communication device.

[0058] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to implement any one of the first to fourth aspects of embodiments of this application, as well as various possible designs of any one aspect.

[0059] Eighthly, this application also provides a chip coupled to a memory for reading and executing program instructions stored in the memory to implement the methods described in any of the first to fourth aspects and various possible designs of any aspect.

[0060] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a computer program product including computer program code or instructions, which, when run on a computer, causes the computer to implement the method described in any one of the first to fourth aspects and various possible designs of any one aspect.

[0061] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application also provide a communication system, including network devices in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in the regeneration mode described in the first or third aspect above, and network devices described in the second or fourth aspect above.

[0062] For the technical effects that the possible designs of the fifth to tenth aspects and each aspect may achieve, please refer to the above description of the technical effects that the possible designs of the first to fourth aspects and each aspect may achieve. This application will not repeat them here. Attached Figure Description

[0063] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture;

[0064] Figure 1B is another schematic diagram of a communication system architecture;

[0065] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the satellite network topology;

[0066] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of store-and-forward;

[0067] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 6 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 8 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0074] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The specific operating methods in the method embodiments can also be applied to the device embodiments or system embodiments.

[0075] The terms "system" and "network" in this application embodiment can be used interchangeably. The term "multiple" in this application embodiment refers to two or more; therefore, "multiple" can also be understood as "at least two" in this application embodiment. "At least one" can be understood as one or more, such as one, two, or more. For example, including at least one means including one, two, or more, and is not limited to which ones are included. For example, including at least one of A, B, and C means including A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. Similarly, the understanding of descriptions such as "at least one" is similar. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or multiple items. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, or ABC. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. In addition, the character " / ", unless otherwise specified, generally indicates that the objects before and after it are in an "or" relationship.

[0076] Unless otherwise specified, the ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects, and are not used to limit the order, sequence, priority or importance of multiple objects, and the description of "first" and "second" does not limit the objects to necessarily being different.

[0077] This application will present various aspects, embodiments, or features relating to systems that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood and appreciated that individual systems may include additional devices, components, modules, etc., and / or may not include all devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, combinations of these approaches may also be used. Additionally, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplarily," "for example," etc., are used to indicate examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any embodiment or design described as an "example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Specifically, the use of the term "example" is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner.

[0078] The technical solutions of this application can be applied to various communication systems, such as 4th generation (4G) communication systems, 5th generation (5G) communication systems, 6th generation (6G) communication systems, and other communication systems evolved after 5G. The following describes some network architectures to which this application applies. In the following description, the terminal device is taken as user equipment (UE).

[0079] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of a service-based communication system architecture. The network architecture shown in Figure 1A may include network devices and core network devices. Terminal devices access the data network (DN) through network devices and core network devices. The core network devices include, but are not limited to, some or all of the following network elements: authentication server function (AUSF) network element (not shown in the figure), unified data management (UDM) network element, unified data repository (UDR) network element, network repository function (NRF) network element (not shown in the figure), network exposure function (NEF) network element (not shown in the figure), application function (AF) network element, policy control function (PCF) network element, access and mobility management function (AMF) network element, session management function (SMF) network element, user plane function (UPF) network element, and binding support function (BSF) network element (not shown in the figure).

[0080] Terminal equipment can be user equipment (UE), terminal, access terminal, user unit, user station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, remote terminal, mobile device, user terminal, wireless communication equipment, user agent, or user device, etc. UE can also be a cellular phone, cordless phone, session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, wireless local loop (WLL) station, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld device with wireless communication capabilities, computing device or other processing device connected to a wireless modem, vehicle-mounted device, wearable device, terminal equipment in a 5G network, or terminal equipment in a future evolved public land mobile network (PLMN) or non-terrestrial networks (NTN), etc. It can also be an end device, logical entity, smart device, such as a mobile phone, smart terminal, or other terminal equipment, or a server, gateway, base station, controller, or other communication equipment, or an IoT device. UE can also be an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with communication capabilities.

[0081] Network equipment can be either radio access network (RAN) equipment or wired access network (FAN) equipment. Radio access network equipment includes 3GPP access network equipment, untrusted non-3GPP access network equipment, and trusted non-3GPP access network equipment. 3GPP access network equipment includes, but is not limited to: evolved NodeBs (eNodeBs) in LTE, next-generation NodeBs (gNBs) in 5G mobile communication systems, base stations in future mobile communication systems, or modules or units that perform some functions of a base station, such as central units (CUs) and distributed units (DUs). Untrusted non-3GPP access network equipment includes, but is not limited to: untrusted non-3GPP access gateways or N3IWF devices, untrusted wireless local area network (WLAN) access points (APs), switches, and routers. Trusted non-3GPP access network equipment includes, but is not limited to: trusted non-3GPP access gateways, trusted WLAN APs, switches, and routers. Wired access network equipment includes, but is not limited to: wireline access gateway, fixed telephone network equipment, switches, and routers.

[0082] Network devices and terminal devices can be fixed in location or mobile. They can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; they can also be deployed on water; and they can also be deployed in the air on airplanes, balloons, and artificial satellites. The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenarios of the network devices and terminal devices.

[0083] An Access and Mobility Management (AMF) network element includes functions such as mobility management and access authentication / authorization. The AMF network element can also be called an Access and Mobility Management device, Access and Mobility Management Function Entity, Access and Mobility Management Function Network Element, Mobility Management Device, Mobility Management Network Element, or Mobility Management Entity, and is a type of core network equipment. This device can be used to manage UE access control and mobility. In practical applications, it includes the access and mobility management functions within the Mobility Management Entity (MME) of the Long Term Evolution (LTE) network framework, and adds access management functions. Specifically, it can be responsible for UE registration, mobility management, tracking area update procedures, reachability detection, selection of session management network elements, and mobility state transition management. For example, in a 5G communication system, the access and mobility management network element can be an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element. In future communications, such as 6G communication systems, the access and mobility management network element can still be an AMF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this. When the access and mobility management network element is an AMF network element, the AMF can provide Namf services.

[0084] An SMF (Session Management Function) network element, also known as a session management device, is a type of core network equipment. This device is responsible for UE session management (including session establishment, modification, and release), selection and reselection of user plane function network elements, UE Internet Protocol (IP) address allocation, and Quality of Service (QoS) control. For example, in a 5G communication system, the session management network element can be a Session Management Function (SMF) network element. In future communication systems, such as 6G, the session management network element can still be an SMF network element, or it may have other names; this application does not limit this. When the session management network element is an SMF network element, the SMF can provide NSMF services.

[0085] UPF (User Plane Function) network elements, also known as user plane devices, are a type of core network equipment. These devices are responsible for forwarding and receiving user data from the UE (User Equipment). They can receive user data from the data network and transmit it to the UE through network equipment; UPF network elements can also receive user data from the UE through network equipment and forward it to the data network. The transmission resources and scheduling functions provided to the UE by the UPF network elements are managed and controlled by the session management function network elements.

[0086] UDM network elements, also known as unified data management devices, unified data management network elements, data management devices, or unified data management entities, are used to handle terminal device identification, access authentication, registration, and mobility management. In 5G communication systems, unified data management can be either a UDM or a unified data management device. In future communication systems, unified data management may still be a UDM network element, or it may have other names; this application does not limit the specific names. A unified data management device can be a core network device or a control plane device.

[0087] UDR network elements, also known as user database devices, user database entities, or user database network elements, primarily include the following functions: access to data types such as subscription data, policy data, and application data.

[0088] NEF network elements are used to support the opening of capabilities and events.

[0089] AF (Application Provider) network elements convey application-side requests to the network side, such as Quality of Service (QoS) requirements or user state event subscriptions. AFs can be third-party functional entities or application services deployed by operators, such as IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) voice call services. AF network elements include those within the core network (i.e., the operator's AFs) and third-party AFs (such as an enterprise's application server).

[0090] PCF (Portable Component Function) network elements include policy control functions responsible for session and service flow-level billing, QoS bandwidth guarantee, mobility management, and terminal device policy decisions. PCF network elements include access and mobility management policy control function (AM PCF) network elements and session management policy control function (SM PCF) network elements. AM PCF network elements are used to formulate AM policies for terminal devices; AM PCF network elements can also be referred to as policy control network elements for providing services to terminal devices (PCF for a UE). SM PCF network elements are used to formulate session management policies (SM policies); SM PCF network elements can also be referred to as policy control network elements for providing services to a PDU session.

[0091] NRF network elements can be used to provide network element discovery functionality, providing network element information corresponding to the network element type based on requests from other network elements. NRF also provides network element management services, such as network element registration, updates, deregistration, and network element status subscription and push.

[0092] The BSF network element can provide functions such as BSF service registration / deregistration / update, NRF connection detection, session binding information creation, UE information acquisition, and session binding information query for duplicate IP addresses.

[0093] The AUSF network element is responsible for authenticating users to determine whether to allow users or devices to access the network.

[0094] A Domain Provider (DN) is a network located outside of the carrier's network. A carrier's network can connect to multiple DNs, and various services can be deployed on a DN, providing data and / or voice services to terminal devices. For example, a DN might be the private network of a smart factory. Sensors installed in the workshop can act as terminal devices, and a control server for these sensors is deployed within the DN. The control server provides services to the sensors. Sensors can communicate with the control server, receive instructions from it, and transmit the collected sensor data back to the control server accordingly. Another example is a DN serving as an internal office network for a company. Employees' mobile phones or computers can act as terminal devices, accessing information and data resources on the company's internal office network.

[0095] In Figure 1A, Npcf, Nulf, Nudm, Naf, Namf, and Nsmf are the service interfaces provided by PCF, UDR, UDM, AF, AMF, and SMF, respectively, used to call the corresponding service operations. N1, N2, N3, N4, and N6 are interface sequence numbers, and the meanings of these interface sequence numbers are as follows:

[0096] 1) N1: The interface between the AMF and the terminal device, which can be used to transmit non-access stratum (NAS) signaling (such as QoS rules from the AMF) to the terminal device.

[0097] 2) N2: The interface between the AMF and network devices, which can be used to transmit radio bearer control information from the core network side to the network devices.

[0098] 3) N3: The interface between the network device and the UPF, mainly used to transmit uplink and downlink user plane data between the network device and the UPF.

[0099] 4) N4: The interface between SMF and UPF, which can be used to transmit information between the control plane and the user plane, including the distribution of forwarding rules, QoS rules, traffic statistics rules, etc. from the control plane to the user plane, as well as the reporting of information from the user plane.

[0100] 5) N6: The interface between UPF and DN, used to transmit uplink and downlink user data streams between UPF and DN.

[0101] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of a communication system architecture based on point-to-point interfaces. The functions of the network elements can be found in the corresponding descriptions of the network elements in Figure 1B, and will not be repeated here. The main difference between Figure 1B and Figure 1A is that the interfaces between the control plane network elements in Figure 1A are service-oriented interfaces, while the interfaces between the control plane network elements in Figure 1B are point-to-point interfaces.

[0102] In the architecture shown in Figure 1B, the interface names and functions between the various network elements are as follows:

[0103] 1) The meanings of interfaces N1, N2, N3, N4 and N6 can be found in the previous description.

[0104] 2) N5: The interface between the AF network element and the PCF network element, which can be used for application service request distribution and network event reporting.

[0105] 3) N7: The interface between PCF network elements and SMF network elements, which can be used to issue protocol data unit (PDU) session granularity and service data flow granularity control strategies.

[0106] 4) N8: The interface between the AMF network element and the UDM network element. It can be used by the AMF network element to obtain access and mobility management related subscription data and authentication data from the UDM network element, as well as by the AMF network element to register terminal device mobility management related information with the UDM network element.

[0107] 5) N9: User plane interface between UPF network elements, used to transmit uplink and downlink user data streams between UPF network elements.

[0108] 6) N10: The interface between SMF network elements and UDM network elements. It can be used for SMF network elements to obtain session management-related subscription data from UDM network elements, and for SMF network elements to register terminal device session-related information with UDM network elements.

[0109] 7) N11: The interface between SMF network elements and AMF network elements. It can be used to transmit PDU session tunnel information between network devices and UPF, transmit control messages sent to terminal devices, and transmit radio resource control information sent to network devices.

[0110] 8) N15: The interface between PCF network elements and AMF network elements, which can be used to issue terminal equipment policies and access control related policies.

[0111] 9) N35: The interface between UDM network elements and UDR network elements, which can be used by UDM network elements to obtain user subscription data information from UDR network elements.

[0112] 10) N36: The interface between PCF network elements and UDR network elements, which can be used by PCF network elements to obtain policy-related contract data and application data related information from UDR network elements.

[0113] It is understood that the aforementioned network element or function can be a network component 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 aforementioned network element or function can be implemented by one device, multiple devices working together, or a functional module within a single device; this application embodiment does not specifically limit this.

[0114] The user plane network element, session management network element, and mobility management network element in this application can be a UPF network element, SMF network element, and AMF network element in a 5G system, respectively, or a network element in future communications such as 6G networks that has the functions of the aforementioned UPF network element, SMF network element, and AMF network element. This application does not limit this. In the embodiments of this application, an example of a user plane network element, a session management network element, and an AMF network element is used to describe the user plane network element, session management network element, and mobility management network element, respectively. Furthermore, the UPF network element, SMF network element, and AMF network element are abbreviated as UPF, SMF, and AMF, respectively.

[0115] For ease of explanation, in this embodiment, a base station (such as a 4G eNB, a 5G gNB, or a base station in future communications) is used as an example of a network device. Hereafter, "base station" can be replaced with "network device". In this embodiment, a UE is used as an example of a terminal device. Hereafter, "UE" can be replaced with "terminal device".

[0116] A typical NTN scenario is a satellite network. Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the satellite network topology. In regeneration mode, the base station accessed by the UE through the NTN can be deployed on a satellite. The UE connects to the ground core network equipment via the satellite and the NTN gateway (NTN GW). In the scenario of discontinuous power supply in regeneration mode, the connection between the satellite and the gateway (feeder link) is not continuous. As shown in Figure 3, when the satellite is connected to the UE, there is no feeder link between the satellite and the gateway; when the satellite and the gateway are connected, there is no service link between the satellite and the UE. Therefore, when the satellite receives information from the UE, it needs to store the information first and then send it to the core network equipment through the gateway when the feeder link is restored. It is worth noting that when the feeder link is not connected, it often means that even if the link connects to the ground station via other satellites through the inter-satellite link (ISL), it is also unavailable.

[0117] When a UE accesses the core network via satellite and obtains core network services, the core network equipment needs to verify the UE's location, such as during the registration and session establishment processes, to confirm that the current PLMN can provide services to the UE. In transparent mode (or transparent payload), the core network equipment can obtain user location information (ULI) from the base station to determine whether the PLMN selected by the UE can operate at the UE's location. However, due to the discontinuous power supply, the satellite sends the generated ULI to the core network equipment only after a period of time following receiving the UE's request message; therefore, it cannot be guaranteed that the generated ULI indicates the UE's accurate location.

[0118] Therefore, embodiments of this application provide a communication method to ensure that the core network device obtains accurate user location information from the terminal device.

[0119] Next, the communication method provided in the embodiments of this application will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the drawings corresponding to the various embodiments of this application, all optional steps are indicated by dashed lines.

[0120] Example 1

[0121] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the network device in the NTN in regeneration mode can be the network device shown in Figure 2 or Figure 3, and the core network device can be the core network device shown in Figure 2. The content executed by the network device can be implemented by the network device itself or by components within the network device, such as chips, processing units, or processors, without limitation. Similarly, the content executed by the core network device can be implemented by the core network device itself or by components within the core network device, such as chips, processing units, or processors, without limitation. The number of terminal devices accessing the network device can be one or more, and the first terminal device can be any one of at least one terminal device accessing the network device.

[0122] As shown in Figure 4, the method includes the following:

[0123] S401: When the network device receives the first message from the first terminal device, it generates the first user location information of the first terminal device.

[0124] The first message is used to obtain core network services, and the first user location information is used to indicate the location of the first terminal device. For example, the core network services obtained by the first terminal device refer to successful registration with the core network and establishing a session through the core network.

[0125] Optionally, the first message may include, but is not limited to, a registration request and the selected PLMN. The registration request may include, but is not limited to, the registration type, the subscription concealed identifier (SUCI), and security parameters.

[0126] The network equipment is on-board network equipment, meaning it resides on a satellite. The satellite's orbit is predetermined and is characterized by "ephemeris information" in 3GPP. Ephemeris information includes the satellite's orbital altitude, its angle with the equatorial plane, and other details; based on this information, the satellite's current spatial location can be determined.

[0127] Optionally, the network device can determine whether it has a power supply link based on the location information of the gateway station and the ephemeris information to which the network device belongs. For example, the network device can determine the power supply connection status between itself and the gateway station based on the ephemeris information and the gateway station's location information. The power supply connection status includes having a power supply connection and not having a power supply connection.

[0128] Optionally, network devices can sense the connectivity of power supply links, such as by using power supply sensing to detect whether a power supply link currently exists, or by obtaining the status information of the power supply link through underlying hardware. When a power supply connection exists, i.e., in a scenario where the power supply is continuous, the network device sends a message containing user location information to the core network device after receiving the first message.

[0129] In one implementation, when there is no power supply connection, i.e., in a scenario with discontinuous power supply, the network device generates the first user location information of the first terminal device upon connecting to the first terminal device and receiving the first message sent by the first terminal device. Furthermore, the network device can store the first user location information and send it to the core network device when it connects to the core network device. This ensures that the core network device can obtain the accurate location of the first terminal device.

[0130] In another implementation, the UE indicates in the first message that it is a store-and-forward (S&F) UE. When the network device receives the first message, it generates the first user location information of the first terminal device. For example, when the network device determines that the UE is an S&F UE, it can determine that it is in a scenario of discontinuous power supply and needs to store-and-forward the messages sent by the UE.

[0131] Network devices can generate first user location information in the following ways:

[0132] Method 1: The network device generates the first user location information based on the mapped cell identity (mapped cell ID) of the first cell and the tracking area code (TAC) broadcast when the first message is received.

[0133] The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device. Alternatively, the first cell is the cell corresponding to the geographical location of the area covered by the satellite beam when the network device receives the first message. The first cell can be a single serving cell or a list of serving cells; the broadcast tracking area identifier can be one or more.

[0134] Optionally, when the network device connects to the first terminal device, it can determine the mapped cell identifier or a list of mapped cell identifiers corresponding to the geographical area covered by the satellite beam when the first message is received, based on the pre-stored binding relationship between mapped cell identifiers and geographical locations. Furthermore, the network device can also use the tracking area identifier or a list of tracking area identifiers broadcast when connecting to the first terminal device as the tracking area identifier or a list of tracking area identifiers to which the first cell belongs.

[0135] Optionally, when a network device receives a first message from a first terminal device, it may designate the cell to which the first terminal device in the cell it manages is connected as the first cell.

[0136] After generating the first user location information of the first terminal device, the network device can store the first user location information. For example, the network device can maintain the storage relationship between the first user location information and the first message in the device's context, temporary information, or other information. Optionally, when storing the first user location information, the network device can carry a store-and-forward (S&F) indicator in the storage relationship between the first user location information and the first message, or it can carry the S&F indicator in the ULI structure. The S&F indicator information is used to indicate that in a scenario where the network device and the first terminal device are in a discontinuous power supply situation, the network device transmits information using store-and-forward. For example, the storage relationship between the first user location information and the first message in the network device is shown in Table 1 or Table 2 below:

[0137] Table 1: Storage Relationships Carrying S&F Indicators

[0138] Table 2: S&F indicator carried in ULI construction

[0139] The S&F ULI in Table 2 can be represented as shown in Table 3 below:

[0140] Table 3: S&F ULI

[0141] Optionally, the UE ID can be represented in the form of SAE Temporary Mobile Subscriber Identity (S-TMSI), 5G-S-TMSI, Globally Unique Temporary Identity (GUTI), Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI), RAN UE NG Application Protocol (NGAP) ID, or other identifying information that can identify the UE. Here, NG represents the interface between the network device and the core network device.

[0142] When a network device detects that the power supply connection has been restored, it can determine that a connection has been established with the core network device. Optionally, after the power supply connection is restored, the network device can perform an NG setup procedure with the core network device to establish a connection. After the network device establishes a connection with the core network device, it can generate a second message based on the ULI in the stored relationship and the first message. The second message can be an interface message between the network device and the core network device. For example, the second message can be N2 msg. Another example is S1-MME msg.

[0143] Optionally, the second message may include the first message and the ULI. The first message may include the PLMN selected by the first terminal device. The ULI in the second message may be a ULI or S&F ULI that has established a storage relationship with the first message.

[0144] Optionally, the second message may also include indication information, which indicates that the network device is an on-board network device.

[0145] Method 2: The network device generates a second message. This second message carries the first user's location information. The second message can be an N2 / S1-MME message. N2 is the interface between the network device and the core network device in 5G communication. S1-MME is the interface between the network device and the core network device in 4G communication.

[0146] As an example, upon receiving a first message from a first terminal device, the network device can generate a ULI based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. Furthermore, after generating the ULI, the network device can generate a second message containing the ULI and the first message sent by the first terminal device indicated by that ULI. For instance, upon receiving a registration request message from the first terminal device, the network device can generate a ULI based on the mapped cell ID and the broadcast TAC, and then generate a second message containing that ULI and the corresponding registration request message from the first terminal device. The second message is associated with the first terminal device.

[0147] After generating the second message, the network device can store it. For example, when the first message is a registration request, the storage relationship between the second message in the network device and the first terminal device is shown in Table 4 below:

[0148] Table 4: Storage Relationship Between the Second Message and the First Terminal Device

[0149] Once the network device detects that the power supply connection has been restored, it can determine that a connection has been established with the core network device. After the connection is established, the network device can send a second message to the core network device. Optionally, after the power supply connection is restored, the network device can perform NG setup with the core network device to establish a connection.

[0150] S402: The network device sends a second message to the core network device via the power supply link. The core network device receives the second message from the network device.

[0151] Optionally, when network devices need to connect to the gateway station via other satellites, the feeder link may also include a portion of the inter-satellite link. That is, the network device can route the second message to the gateway station via other satellites, and then to the core network equipment via the gateway station.

[0152] Optionally, the second message sent by the network device to the core network device may or may not carry S&F indication information.

[0153] S403: The core network equipment provides services to the first terminal equipment based on the second message.

[0154] Optionally, after receiving the second message, the core network device also needs to determine whether the network device is an on-board network device and whether it is in regeneration mode. For example, the core network device can determine whether the network device is an on-board network device using the following methods.

[0155] As an example, core network devices can obtain the identification information of network devices from network devices. When the identification information of a pre-configured on-board network device includes the identification information of the network device, the core network device determines that the network device is an on-board network device.

[0156] As another example, the second message received by the core network device includes indication information. The core network device can determine that the network device is an on-board network device based on this indication information.

[0157] Optionally, after determining that the network device is an on-board network device, the core network device can also sense whether the satellite to which the network device is located is in regeneration mode. For example, the core network device can determine, based on the configuration information of the first terminal device, that the satellite currently served by the first terminal device is a discontinuous feeder satellite, i.e., the satellite is in regeneration mode. For instance, if the configuration information of the first terminal device contains information indicating that the first terminal device is an S&F first terminal device, the core network device can determine that the satellite currently served by the first terminal device is in regeneration mode. When the core network device determines that the satellite to which the network device is located is in regeneration mode, the core network device can determine, based on the first user's location information, whether the location of the first terminal device coincides with the location connected to the network device. As an example, when the location of the first terminal device coincides with the location of the gateway station connected to the network device, the core network device can determine that a logic error has occurred in the network device and initiate a location process for the first terminal device. Further, the location process for the first terminal device can be completed through an LMF network element. As another example, when the location of the first terminal device does not coincide with the location of the gateway station connected to the network device, the core network device can perform subsequent location authentication operations. The core network can perform location authentication operations in the following ways:

[0158] A1: The core network equipment can determine the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal equipment based on the pre-configured service area of ​​the PLMN.

[0159] A2: The core network equipment can also determine whether the location of the first terminal device is within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal device based on the first user's location information.

[0160] As an example, when the first terminal device is located within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal device, the core network device provides services to the first terminal device. For instance, when the first terminal device is within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal device, the core network device completes the registration process for the first terminal device.

[0161] As another example, when the location of the first terminal device is not within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal device, the core network device can send an indication message to the first terminal device to refuse to provide services.

[0162] In the above embodiment 1, in regeneration mode, after receiving the first message from the first terminal device, the network device directly generates a ULI indicating the location of the first terminal device. This ensures that when the network device subsequently sends a second message to the core network device via the power supply link, the core network device obtains accurate user location information indicating the first terminal device.

[0163] Based on the method provided in the embodiment shown in FIG4, this application also provides communication examples, as shown in FIG5 and FIG6.

[0164] Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. The network device is an on-board gNB in ​​regenerative mode, and the core network device is an AMF. As shown in Figure 5, the method includes the following steps:

[0165] S501: The onboard gNB determines the power supply connection status based on the location information of the gateway station connected to the onboard gNB and the ephemeris information of the satellite to which the onboard gNB belongs.

[0166] The power supply connection status includes having a power supply connection and not having a power supply connection.

[0167] S502: The UE sends the first message to the onboard gNB. The onboard gNB receives the first message sent by the UE.

[0168] The first message is used to obtain core network services. The first message may include an SMS and a registration request. For example, the SMS may include a parameter, which can be the PLMN selected by the UE. The registration request may include the registration type, SUCI, and security parameter.

[0169] S503: When the onboard gNB receives the first message, it generates the UE's ULI based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier currently broadcast.

[0170] The first cell is either the serving cell managed by the onboard gNB, where the UE accesses, or the cell corresponding to the geographical location of the satellite beam coverage area of ​​the satellite to which the onboard gNB belongs. The ULI is used to indicate the location of the UE.

[0171] S504: The onboard gNB stores the ULI and establishes a storage relationship between the registration request and the ULI.

[0172] S505: Establishes a connection between the onboard gNB and the AMF.

[0173] S506: The onboard gNB generates an N2 message based on the ULI and registration request in the storage relationship.

[0174] The N2 message may include the selected PLMN, the registration request, and the ULI or S&F ULI that establishes a storage relationship with the registration request.

[0175] S507: The onboard gNB sends an N2 message to the AMF. The AMF receives the N2 message from the onboard gNB.

[0176] S508: The AMF determines the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE based on the service area of ​​the pre-configured PLMN.

[0177] S509: The AMF determines whether to accept the UE's registration request based on the ULI and the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE.

[0178] Optionally, the AMF can determine whether the UE is within its service range by checking whether the UE's location indicated by the ULI is within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE. In this way, the AMF can determine whether to accept the UE's registration request.

[0179] S510: When the AMF determines that it accepts the UE's registration request, it completes the UE's registration process.

[0180] S511: When the AMF determines that it will not accept the UE's registration request, it sends a registration rejection message to the UE. The UE receives the registration rejection message from the AMF.

[0181] Based on the information shown in Figure 5, when the onboard gNB receives a UE's registration request, it directly generates and stores a ULI indicating the UE's location. When the gNB connects to the AMF, it sends an N2 message containing the ULI to the AMF. This ensures that the ULI obtained by the AMF is accurate location information.

[0182] Figure 6 shows another flowchart of the communication method provided in this application embodiment. The network device is an on-board gNB in ​​regenerative mode, and the core network device is an AMF. As shown in Figure 6, the method includes the following steps:

[0183] S601: The onboard gNB determines the power supply connection status based on the location information of the gateway station connected to the onboard gNB and the ephemeris information of the satellite to which the onboard gNB belongs.

[0184] The power supply connection status includes having a power supply connection and not having a power supply connection.

[0185] S602: The UE sends the first message to the onboard gNB. The onboard gNB receives the first message sent by the UE.

[0186] The first message is used to obtain core network services. The first message may include an SMS and a registration request. For example, the SMS may include a parameter, which can be the PLMN selected by the UE. The registration request may include the registration type, SUCI, and security parameter.

[0187] S603: When the onboard gNB receives the first message, it generates a ULI and an N2 message containing the ULI and a registration request.

[0188] The ULI is used to indicate the location of the UE. The process of generating the ULI in step S603 is the same as the process of generating the ULI in method 1 in S401 of embodiment 1, and will not be described again here.

[0189] S604: Onboard gNB stores N2 messages.

[0190] S605: Establishes a connection between the onboard gNB and the AMF.

[0191] S606: The onboard gNB sends an N2 message to the AMF. The AMF receives the N2 message from the onboard gNB.

[0192] S607: AMF has determined that the satellite containing the gNB is in regeneration mode.

[0193] S608: When the AMF determines that the UE's location coincides with the location of the gateway station connected to the onboard gNB based on the ULI, it determines that the UE's location is inaccurate and triggers the UE positioning process.

[0194] S609: The AMF determines the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE based on the pre-configured PLMN service area, and determines whether to accept the UE's registration request.

[0195] Optionally, the AMF can determine whether the UE is within its service range by checking whether the UE's location indicated by the ULI is within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE. In this way, the AMF can determine whether to accept the UE's registration request.

[0196] S610: When the AMF determines that it accepts the UE's registration request, it completes the UE's registration process.

[0197] S611: When the AMF determines that it will not accept the UE's registration request, it sends a registration rejection message to the UE. The UE receives the registration rejection message from the AMF.

[0198] Based on the information shown in Figure 6, when the onboard gNB receives a UE's registration request, it directly generates and stores an N2 message containing the ULI indicating the UE's location. When the gNB connects to the AMF, it sends the N2 message containing the ULI to the AMF. This ensures that the ULI obtained by the AMF is accurate location information.

[0199] Example 2

[0200] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the network device in the NTN in regeneration mode can be the network device shown in Figure 2 or Figure 3, and the core network device can be the core network device shown in Figure 2. The content executed by the network device can be implemented by the network device itself or by components within the network device, such as chips, processing units, or processors, without limitation. The content executed by the core network device can be implemented by the core network device itself or by components within the core network device, such as chips, processing units, or processors, without limitation. The number of terminal devices accessing the network device can be one or more, and the first terminal device can be any one of at least one terminal device accessing the network device.

[0201] As shown in Figure 7, the method includes the following:

[0202] S701: The network device receives the first message from the first terminal device. The first terminal device sends the first message to the network device.

[0203] The first message is used to obtain core network services. For example, the core network services obtained by the first terminal device refer to the first terminal device successfully registering with the core network and establishing a session through the core network.

[0204] Optionally, the first message may include, but is not limited to: a registration request and the selected PLMN. The registration request may include, but is not limited to: registration type, SUCI, and security parameters.

[0205] The network equipment is on-board network equipment, meaning it resides on a satellite. The satellite's orbit is predetermined and is characterized by "ephemeris information" in 3GPP. Ephemeris information includes the satellite's orbital altitude, its angle with the equatorial plane, and other details; based on this information, the satellite's current spatial location can be determined.

[0206] Optionally, the first message may also include a first timestamp, which indicates the time when the first terminal device sent the first message.

[0207] Optionally, when the network device receives the first message, it records the time of receiving the first message and uses this time as the first timestamp. That is, the first timestamp indicates the time when the network device received the first message. The network device can also store the first timestamp. For example, the network device can maintain the association between the first message and the first timestamp using the ID of the first terminal device as an index. For instance, when the first message is a registration request, the storage relationship between the first timestamp and the first message in the network device can be as shown in Table 5 below:

[0208] Table 5: Storage Relationship of First Timestamp

[0209] Optionally, the network device can detect the connectivity of the feeder link, such as by using a feeder sensing function to detect whether a feeder link currently exists, or by obtaining the status information of the feeder link through underlying hardware. When the network device detects that the feeder connection has been restored, the network device can determine that a connection has been established with the core network device. Optionally, when the feeder link is restored, the network device can perform NG setup with the core network device to establish a connection. After the connection is established, the network device can retrieve the saved timestamp based on the UE ID.

[0210] Optionally, when the power supply link is restored, the network device can send a third message to the core network device. This third message is used to establish a connection with the core network device and includes the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp, or the first cell is the cell corresponding to the geographical location of the area covered by the satellite beam at the time indicated by the first timestamp. The first cell can be a single serving cell or a list of serving cells; the tracking area identifier can be one or more.

[0211] Optionally, when the network device connects to the first terminal device, it can determine the mapped cell identifier or a list of mapped cell identifiers corresponding to the geographical area covered by the satellite beam when the first message is received, based on the pre-stored binding relationship between mapped cell identifiers and geographical locations. Furthermore, the network device can also use the tracking area identifier or a list of tracking area identifiers broadcast when connecting to the first terminal device as the tracking area identifier or a list of tracking area identifiers to which the first cell belongs.

[0212] S702: The network device sends a second message to the core network device via the power feeder link. The core network device receives the second message from the network device via the power feeder link.

[0213] The second message includes a first timestamp, which is used to determine the location information of the first terminal device.

[0214] S703: The core network equipment determines the first user location information of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp.

[0215] The first user location information is used to indicate the location of the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp.

[0216] Optionally, the core network device may receive a third message during the connection establishment process with the network device, and determine the first user's location information based on the received third message.

[0217] Optionally, the core network device can also determine the satellite's position at the time indicated by the first timestamp based on the ephemeris information of the satellite to which the network device is located. The satellite ephemeris information can be obtained by the core network device from the network device or pre-configured in the core network device. The core network device can determine the mapped cell identifier (list) of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier (list) of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs, based on the satellite's position and the correspondence between mapped cell identifiers and geographical locations. The core network device can determine the first user's location information based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs.

[0218] After determining the location information of the first user, the core network equipment can verify the location of the first terminal device. For example, the core network equipment can determine the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal device based on the pre-configured PLMN service area; that is, the service range of the core network equipment. The core network equipment can also determine whether the location of the first terminal device is within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the first terminal device based on the first user's location information. In other words, the core network determines whether the location indicated by the first user's location information is within the service range of the core network equipment.

[0219] S704: When the location indicated by the first user location information is within the service range of the core network equipment, the core network equipment provides services to the first terminal equipment.

[0220] As an example, when the location of the first terminal device is within the service range of the core network device, the core network device can provide services to the first terminal device. For instance, when the first terminal device is within the service range of the core network device, the core network device completes the registration process for the first terminal device.

[0221] As another example, when the location of the first terminal device is not within the service range of the core network device, the core network device can send an instruction message to the first terminal device to refuse to provide services.

[0222] In Example 2, the network device will also send a ULI to the core network device. However, since the accuracy of the ULI cannot be confirmed, the first user information determined by the core network device shall prevail.

[0223] Based on the content shown in Embodiment 2 above, the network device sends a timestamp to the core network device, allowing the core network device to determine the location of the first terminal device at the time indicated by the timestamp. This ensures that the ULI information used by the core network device for subsequent location verification is the UE's true geographical location information, avoiding regulatory issues caused by inaccurate ULI.

[0224] Based on the method provided in the embodiment shown in FIG7, this application also provides a communication example, as shown in FIG8.

[0225] Figure 8 shows another schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in this application embodiment. The network device is an on-board gNB in ​​regenerative mode, and the core network device is an AMF. As shown in Figure 8, the method includes the following steps:

[0226] S801: The UE sends the first message to the onboard gNB. The onboard gNB receives the first message sent by the UE.

[0227] The first message is used to obtain core network services. The first message may include an SMS and a registration request. For example, the SMS may include a parameter, which can be the PLMN selected by the UE. The registration request may include registration type, SUCI, security parameter, and timestamp.

[0228] S802: The first timestamp of the gNB record when it receives the registration request in the first message.

[0229] The first timestamp is used to determine the UE's location.

[0230] In other embodiments, the onboard gNB can use the timestamp in the registration request as the first timestamp.

[0231] S803: Establishes a connection between the onboard gNB and the AMF.

[0232] S804: The onboard gNB generates an N2 message containing the first timestamp.

[0233] The N2 message also includes a registration request.

[0234] S805: The onboard gNB sends an N2 message to the AMF. The AMF receives the N2 message from the onboard gNB.

[0235] S806: The AMF determines the mapping cell identifier and / or tracking area identifier based on the ephemeris information of the satellite to which the onboard gNB belongs, the first timestamp, and the correspondence between the mapping cell identifier and the geographical location.

[0236] Optionally, the ephemeris information can be pre-configured in the AMF or obtained by the AMF from the onboard gNB.

[0237] The specific execution process of S806 can be found in the process of determining the mapping cell identifier and / or tracking area identifier in S703, and will not be repeated here.

[0238] S807: The AMF determines the ULI based on the mapped cell identifier and / or tracking area identifier.

[0239] ULI indicates the location of the UE.

[0240] S808: The AMF determines the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE based on the service area of ​​the pre-configured PLMN.

[0241] S809: The AMF determines whether to accept the UE's registration request based on the ULI and the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE.

[0242] Optionally, the AMF can determine whether the UE is within its service range by checking whether the UE's location indicated by the ULI is within the service area corresponding to the PLMN selected by the UE. In this way, the AMF can determine whether to accept the UE's registration request.

[0243] S810: When the AMF determines that it accepts the UE's registration request, it completes the UE's registration process.

[0244] S811: When the AMF determines that it will not accept the UE's registration request, it sends a registration rejection message to the UE. The UE receives the registration rejection message from the AMF.

[0245] Based on the content shown in Figure 8, the on-board gNB will send the timestamp of the received registration request to the AMF, so that the AMF can determine the UE's location at the time indicated by the timestamp. This ensures that the ULI information used by the AMF for subsequent location verification is the UE's true geographical location information, avoiding regulatory issues caused by inaccurate ULI.

[0246] It is worth noting that the execution order of each step in the above method embodiments is only an example, and the embodiments of this application do not limit it. The above mainly describes the solution provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of device interaction. It is understood that in order to achieve the above functions, each device may include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily realize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a certain function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and implementation constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0247] The embodiments of this application can divide the device into functional units according to the above method examples. For example, each function can be divided into a separate functional unit, or two or more functions can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0248] In the case of using integrated units, FIG9 shows a possible exemplary block diagram of the communication device involved in the embodiments of this application. As shown in FIG9, the communication device 900 may include: a transmitting unit 901, a processing unit 902, and a receiving unit 903. The processing unit 902 is used to control and manage the operation of the communication device 900. The receiving unit 903 is used to support communication between the communication device 900 and other devices. Optionally, the receiving unit 903 and the transmitting unit 901 may also be a single unit (such as a transceiver unit or a communication unit), which can be used to perform receiving and transmitting operations. Optionally, the communication device 900 may also include a storage unit 904 for storing the program code and / or data of the communication device 900.

[0249] The processing unit 902 can support the communication device 900 in performing the actions of network devices or core network devices in the regeneration mode of the non-terrestrial network NTN in the above method examples. Alternatively, the processing unit 902 mainly performs the internal actions of network devices or core network devices in the regeneration mode of the non-terrestrial network NTN in the method examples. The receiving unit 903 and the transmitting unit 901 can support communication between the communication device 900 and other devices.

[0250] For example, the communication device 900 can be a network device in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in the regeneration mode of the above embodiments, or it can be a component (such as a chip) of the network device in the above embodiments.

[0251] Processing unit 902 is configured to generate first user location information of the first terminal device when receiving a first message from the first terminal device through receiving unit 903, wherein the first message is used to obtain core network services and the first user location information is used to indicate the location of the first terminal device.

[0252] The sending unit 901 is used to send a second message to the core network equipment via the power supply link, the second message containing the first user location information.

[0253] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 902 is configured to generate the first user location information based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs; the first cell is a serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device.

[0254] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 902 is configured to generate the second message, the second message carrying the first user location information.

[0255] In one possible implementation, after generating the first user location information of the first terminal device, the processing unit 902 is used to store the first user location information.

[0256] In one possible implementation, the second message further includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

[0257] In one possible implementation, the network device is an on-board network device; the second message further includes indication information for indicating that the network device is the on-board network device.

[0258] In one possible implementation, the receiving unit 903 is configured to receive a first message from a first terminal device, the first message being used to obtain core network services.

[0259] The sending unit 901 is used to send a second message to the core network equipment via the power supply link. The second message includes a first timestamp, which is used to determine the user location information of the first terminal device.

[0260] In one possible implementation, the first timestamp is used to indicate the time when the network device receives the first message.

[0261] In one possible implementation, the first message includes the first timestamp, which indicates the time when the first terminal device sent the first message.

[0262] In one possible implementation, the second message further includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device, wherein the network device is an on-board network device.

[0263] In one possible implementation, before sending the second message to the core network device via the power supply link, the sending unit 901 is used to send a third message to the core network device. The third message is used to establish a connection with the core network device. The third message includes the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp.

[0264] For example, the communication device 900 may be the core network device in the above embodiments, or it may be a component (such as a chip) of the core network device in the above embodiments.

[0265] The receiving unit 903 is configured to receive a second message from the network device, the second message including first user location information, the first user location information being used to indicate the location of the first terminal device;

[0266] Processing unit 902 is configured to provide services to the first terminal device according to the second message.

[0267] In one possible implementation, before providing services to the first terminal device according to the second message, the processing unit 902 is configured to determine that the network device is an on-board network device and that the satellite to which the network device is located is in regeneration mode; and to determine, based on the first user location information, that the location of the first terminal device does not coincide with the location of the gateway station to which the network device is connected.

[0268] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 902 is configured to acquire the identification information of the network device; when the identification information of the pre-configured on-board network device includes the identification information of the network device, the network device is determined to be the on-board network device.

[0269] In one possible implementation, the second message further includes indication information for indicating that the network device is the on-board network device.

[0270] In one possible implementation, the second message further includes a first message for obtaining core network services; the first message includes the public land mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

[0271] In one possible implementation, the receiving unit 903 is configured to receive a second message from a network device, the second message including a first timestamp;

[0272] Processing unit 902 is configured to determine first user location information of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp, wherein the first user location information indicates the location of the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp; and to provide services to the first terminal device when the location indicated by the first user location information is within the service range of the core network device.

[0273] In one possible implementation, the receiving unit 903 is configured to receive a third message from the network device, the third message being used to establish a connection with the core network device, the third message including a mapped cell identifier of a first cell and a tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs; the first cell is a serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp.

[0274] Processing unit 902 is used to determine the location information of the first user based on the third message.

[0275] In one possible implementation, the processing unit 902 is configured to: determine the location of the satellite at the time indicated by the first timestamp based on the ephemeris information of the satellite to which the network device is located; determine the mapping cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs based on the correspondence between the satellite's location and the mapping cell identifier and the geographical location; the first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp; and determine the location information of the first user based on the mapping cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs.

[0276] In one possible implementation, the second message further includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

[0277] It should be understood that the division of units in the above device is merely a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, all units in the device can be implemented entirely through software calls from processing elements; all units can be implemented entirely in hardware; or some units can be implemented through software calls from processing elements, while others are implemented in hardware. For example, each unit can be a separate processing element, or it can be integrated into a chip within the device. Alternatively, it can be stored as a program in memory, called and executed by a processing element of the device. Moreover, these units can be fully or partially integrated together, or implemented independently. The processing element here can also be called a processor, which can be an integrated circuit with signal processing capabilities. In the implementation process, the operations or units described above can be implemented through integrated logic circuits in the processor element or through software calls from processing elements.

[0278] In one example, a unit in any of the above devices can be one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the methods described above, such as: one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or a combination of at least two of these forms of integrated circuits. As another example, when a unit in the device can be implemented in the form of a processing element scheduler, the processing element can be a processor, such as a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), or other processor capable of calling programs. Furthermore, these units can be integrated together to implement a system-on-a-chip (SOC).

[0279] The receiving unit described above is an interface circuit of the device, used to receive signals from other devices. For example, when the device is implemented as a chip, the receiving unit is an interface circuit for the chip to receive signals from other chips or devices. The transmitting unit described above is an interface circuit of the device, used to transmit signals to other devices. For example, when the device is implemented as a chip, the transmitting unit is an interface circuit for the chip to transmit signals to other chips or devices.

[0280] Please refer to Figure 10, which is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this application, used to implement the operation of network devices or core network devices in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in the regeneration mode described in the above embodiments. The communication device 1000 includes a processor 1010 and an interface 1030. Optionally, the communication device 1000 also includes a memory 1020. The interface 1030 is used to enable communication with other devices.

[0281] In the above embodiments, the method executed by the network device or core network device in the non-terrestrial network NTN in regeneration mode can be implemented by the processor 1010 calling a program stored in memory (which can be memory 1420 in the network device or core network device in the regeneration mode, or external memory). That is, the communication device 1000 for implementing the functions of the network device or core network device in the non-terrestrial network NTN in regeneration mode may include a processor 1010, which executes the method executed by the network device or core network device in the regeneration mode of the non-terrestrial network NTN in the above method embodiments by calling a program in memory. The processor here can be an integrated circuit with signal processing capabilities, such as a CPU. The access network device can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the above methods. For example: one or more ASICs, or one or more microprocessors (DSPs), or one or more FPGAs, or a combination of at least two of these integrated circuit forms. Alternatively, the above implementation methods can be combined.

[0282] When the communication device 1000 is used in the above method, the processor 1010 is used to implement the function of the processing unit 902, and the interface 1030 is used to implement the function of the sending unit 901 and the receiving unit 903.

[0283] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When these computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium (e.g., floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), an optical medium (e.g., DVD), or a semiconductor medium (e.g., solid-state disk (SSD)).

[0284] The various illustrative logic units and circuits described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented or operate the described functions using a general-purpose processor, digital signal processor, application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor; alternatively, it can also be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor can also be implemented using a combination of computing devices, such as a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a digital signal processor core, or any other similar configuration.

[0285] The steps of the methods or algorithms described in the embodiments of this application can be directly embedded in hardware, software units executed by a processor, or a combination of both. The software units can be stored in random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), EPROM, EEPROM, registers, hard disks, removable disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of storage medium in the art. Exemplarily, the storage medium can be connected to the processor so that the processor can read information from and write information to the storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium can also be integrated into the processor. The processor and storage medium can be housed in an ASIC.

[0286] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus, provide steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more flowcharts and / or one or more block diagrams.

[0287] In one or more exemplary implementations, the functions described in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination of these three. If implemented in software, these functions can be stored on a computer-readable medium or transmitted on a computer-readable medium in the form of one or more instructions or code. Computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media that facilitate the transfer of computer programs from one place to another. Storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. For example, such computer-readable media can include, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store program code in the form of instructions or data structures and other forms that can be read by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor. Furthermore, any connection can be suitably defined as a computer-readable medium, for example, if the software is transmitted from a website, server or other remote resource via a coaxial cable, fiber optic computer, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL) or wirelessly, such as infrared, wireless and microwave, it is also included in the defined computer-readable medium. The disks and discs mentioned include compressed disks, laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs. Disks typically copy data magnetically, while discs typically copy data optically using lasers. Combinations of these can also be contained in computer-readable media.

[0288] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the functions described in the embodiments of this application in one or more of the above examples can be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, these functions can be stored in a computer-readable medium or transmitted as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media, wherein communication media include any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Storage media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0289] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of the embodiments of this application. It should be understood that the above descriptions are merely specific implementations of the embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, or improvements made based on the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application should be included within the scope of protection of the embodiments of this application. The above description of this application specification allows any artist in the art to utilize or implement the content of the embodiments of this application. Any modifications based on the disclosed content should be considered obvious in the art. The basic principles described in the embodiments of this application can be applied to other variations without departing from the inventive nature and scope of this application. Therefore, the content disclosed in the embodiments of this application is not limited to the described embodiments and implementations, but can be extended to the maximum scope consistent with the principles of this application and the disclosed new features.

[0290] Although this application has been described in conjunction with specific features and embodiments, it is obvious that various modifications and combinations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of this application. Accordingly, this specification and drawings are merely exemplary illustrations of the application as defined by the appended claims, and are considered to cover any and all modifications, variations, combinations, or equivalents within the scope of this application. Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various alterations and modifications to this application without departing from the scope of this application. Thus, if these modifications and modifications to the embodiments of this application fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, the embodiments of this application are also intended to include these modifications and modifications.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, Network devices used in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) operating in regenerative mode include: Upon receiving a first message from a first terminal device, first user location information of the first terminal device is generated. The first message is used to obtain core network services, and the first user location information is used to indicate the location of the first terminal device. A second message containing the first user's location information is sent to the core network equipment via the power supply link.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The generation of the first user location information of the first terminal device includes: The first user location information is generated based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs; the first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Generating the first user location information of the first terminal device includes: The second message is generated, and the second message carries the location information of the first user.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, After generating the first user location information of the first terminal device, the method further includes: Store the location information of the first user.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The second message also includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The network device is an on-board network device; The second message also includes indication information, which indicates that the network device is the on-board network device.

7. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to core network equipment, including: Receive a second message from a network device, the second message including first user location information, the first user location information being used to indicate the location of the first terminal device; According to the second message, services are provided to the first terminal device.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Before providing services to the first terminal device according to the second message, the method further includes: The network device is determined to be an on-board network device, and the satellite on which the network device is located is in regeneration mode; Based on the first user location information, it is determined that the location of the first terminal device does not coincide with the location of the gateway station connected to the network device.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The step of determining that the network device is an on-board network device includes: Obtain the identification information of the network device; When the identification information of the pre-configured on-board network device includes the identification information of the network device, the network device is identified as the on-board network device.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, The second message also includes indication information, which indicates that the network device is the on-board network device.

11. The method according to any one of claims 7-10, characterized in that, The second message also includes a first message, which is used to obtain core network services; the first message includes the public land mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

12. A communication method, characterized in that, Network devices used in non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) operating in regenerative mode include: Receive a first message from a first terminal device, the first message being used to obtain core network services; A second message is sent to the core network equipment via the power supply link. The second message includes a first timestamp, which is used to determine the user location information of the first terminal device.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first timestamp is used to indicate the time when the network device receives the first message.

14. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The first message includes the first timestamp, which indicates the time when the first terminal device sent the first message.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12-14, characterized in that, The second message also includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device, wherein the network device is an on-board network device.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12-15, characterized in that, Before sending the second message to the core network equipment via the power supply link, the method further includes: A third message is sent to the core network device. The third message is used to establish a connection with the core network device. The third message includes the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp.

17. A communication method, characterized in that, Applied to core network equipment, including: Receive a second message from the network device, the second message including a first timestamp; Based on the first timestamp, the first user location information of the first terminal device is determined, and the first user location information is used to indicate the location of the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp. When the location indicated by the first user location information is within the service range of the core network device, services are provided to the first terminal device.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The step of determining the first user location information of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp includes: A third message is received from the network device, the third message being used to establish a connection with the core network device. The third message includes a mapped cell identifier of the first cell and a tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs. The first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp. The location information of the first user is determined based on the third message.

19. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The step of determining the first user location information of the first terminal device based on the first timestamp includes: Based on the ephemeris information of the satellite where the network device is located, determine the position of the satellite at the time indicated by the first timestamp; Based on the location of the satellite and the correspondence between the mapped cell identifier and the geographical location, the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs are determined; the first cell is the serving cell managed by the network device and accessed by the first terminal device at the time indicated by the first timestamp. The location information of the first user is determined based on the mapped cell identifier of the first cell and / or the tracking area identifier of the tracking area to which the first cell belongs.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17-19, characterized in that, The second message also includes the first message, which includes the public terrestrial mobile network selected by the first terminal device.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, It includes a memory and one or more processors, the memory being coupled to the one or more processors; The memory is used to store computer programs or instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-20.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, Includes a transceiver unit and a processing unit; The transceiver unit is used to receive and send data; The processing unit is configured to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-20.

23. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes a processor coupled to a memory for executing a computer program or instructions stored in the memory, such that the chip performs the method as described in any one of claims 1-20.

24. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, Includes computer program instructions, which, when executed by a computer, cause the processor to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-20.

25. A computer program product, characterized in that, The computer program product includes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-20.

26. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes network equipment in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) in regenerative mode for performing the method as described in any one of claims 1-6 or 12-16, and core network equipment for performing the method as described in any one of claims 7-11 or 17-20.

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