Information processing method, network element, access network device, communication system, and storage medium

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an information processing method, a network element, an access network device, a communication system, and a storage medium. The information processing method is executed by a first network element, and comprises: determining a first operation, wherein the determining the first operation comprises: determining that a terminal is authorized to use a data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. In this way, the first network element can accurately determine whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, thereby determining whether the first network element provides services such as storage and forwarding for the terminal, and reducing the occurrence of resources of a core network device (e.g., the first network element) being maliciously depleted by an attacker.

Description

Information processing method, network element, access network equipment, communication system and storage medium Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of communication technologies, and in particular to an information processing method, a network element, an access network device, a communication system, and a storage medium. Background Art

[0002] Satellite communication technology has been introduced in the field of communications technology, enabling terminals to communicate via satellite access networks. Regarding satellite access networks, it is necessary to consider whether a feeder link between a satellite and a ground station (e.g., a non-terrestrial network gateway (NTN)) and / or a service link between a satellite and a terminal are available.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] The disclosed embodiments need to solve the problem of terminal authorization when a link is unavailable in satellite communications.

[0005] According to a first aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, which is executed by a first network element, including: determining a first operation; wherein, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0006] According to a second aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, which is executed by a second network element, including: receiving a first notification sent by a first network element, wherein the first notification is at least used to indicate that a feeder link between a satellite and a ground station becomes unavailable after a first time range.

[0007] According to a third aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, which is executed by an access network device, including: receiving a third notification sent by a first network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; storing downlink data when a service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0008] According to the fourth aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a first network element is proposed, including: a first processing module, configured to determine a first operation; wherein, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0009] According to the fifth aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a second network element is proposed, including: a second transceiver module, configured to receive a first notification sent by the first network element, wherein the first notification is at least used to indicate that the feeder link between the satellite and the ground station becomes unavailable within a first time range.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, an access network device is proposed, including: a third transceiver module, configured to receive a third notification sent by a first network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; a third processing module, configured to store downlink data when the service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0011] According to the seventh aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a communication device is proposed, comprising one or more processors; wherein the above-mentioned communication device is used to execute optional implementation methods such as the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect.

[0012] According to the eighth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication system is proposed, including: a first network element, a second network element and / or an access network device; wherein the above-mentioned first network element is configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manner of the first aspect, the above-mentioned second network element is configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manner of the second aspect, and / or the above-mentioned access network device is configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manner of the third aspect.

[0013] According to the ninth aspect of an embodiment of the present disclosure, a storage medium is proposed, wherein the storage medium stores instructions. When the instructions are executed on a communication device, the communication device executes the method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect.

[0014] The embodiments of the present disclosure may enable UE authorization to be determined when a link in satellite communication is unavailable. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the following drawings required for describing the embodiments are introduced. The following drawings are merely some embodiments of the present disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG2A is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG2B is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG2C is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG2D is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG3A is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG3B is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG3C is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG3D is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG3E is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG4A is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG4B is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG4C is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG4D is a flow chart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG5 is a flow chart showing an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG6 is a flow chart showing an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG7A is a schematic structural diagram of a first network element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG7B is a schematic structural diagram of a second network element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG7C is a schematic structural diagram of an access network device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG8A is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG8B is a schematic structural diagram of a chip provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] The embodiments of the present disclosure provide an information processing method, a network element, an access network device, a communication system, and a storage medium.

[0038] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element, including: determining a first operation; wherein, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0039] In the above embodiment, whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function can be determined by the first network element (such as MME, etc.); if the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the first network element can provide storage and forwarding services for the terminal, or if the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the first network element may not need to provide storage and forwarding services for the terminal; in this way, by accurately determining whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, it can be clear whether the first network element provides storage and forwarding services for the terminal, thereby reducing the possibility of attackers maliciously exhausting the resources of the core network device (such as the first network element).

[0040] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, determining a first operation includes at least one of the following: determining a first operation when a feeder link is available but becomes unavailable within a first time range; wherein the feeder link is a link between a satellite and a ground station; and determining a first operation when a service link is unavailable; wherein the service link is a link between a satellite and a terminal.

[0041] In the above embodiment, whether the terminal is authorized to perform the data storage and forwarding function can be determined when the feeder link is about to become unavailable and / or when the service link is unavailable, thereby clarifying the authorization issue of the UE when the feeder link and / or service link is unavailable.

[0042] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method includes: determining whether the feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range based on first information; wherein the first information includes coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information.

[0043] In the above embodiment, whether the feeder link is available can be accurately determined by coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information, thereby facilitating determination of whether to perform UE authorization check and / or whether to send downlink data.

[0044] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: before the feeder link becomes unavailable, sending a first notification to the second network element, wherein the first notification includes at least one of the following: first indication information, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate whether the feeder link is available; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; timer information, wherein the timer information is used to indicate the start of a first timer, and the timing duration of the first timer is determined based on the time when the feeder link is unavailable; coverage availability information, wherein the coverage availability information is at least used to indicate the recovery time of the feeder link; a first identifier set, wherein the first identifier set includes at least one first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate a terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; quota information, wherein the quota information is used to indicate the storage space for data allocated to the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier; and authorization information, wherein the authorization information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

[0045] In the above embodiment, when the feeder link is about to become unavailable, the first network element can send the detection result of whether the feeder link is available, the reason for unavailability, the timer information corresponding to the unavailability of the feeder link, the result of whether the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the data storage space allocated to the authorized UE and / or the authorized service, etc. to the second network element, so that the second network element can accurately know the status of whether the feeder link is available and / or the authorization status of the UE, etc., so that the second network element can determine whether to send downlink data, etc.

[0046] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes: receiving a first confirmation message sent by the second network element, wherein the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification to the UE context information.

[0047] In the above embodiment, the first network element may know whether the second network element has received the first notification and / or whether the second network element has stored the first notification.

[0048] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, when the service link is unavailable, before determining the first operation, it also includes one of the following: when the feeder link becomes available, determining whether the service link between the satellite and the terminal is available; and determining whether the service link is available based on receiving a second notification sent by the second network element; wherein the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data is being sent.

[0049] In the above embodiment, the first network element may detect whether the service link is available only when the feeder link becomes available, thereby reducing the waste of detection resources. And / or, the first network element may detect whether the service link is available only when receiving the second notification, that is, when receiving a notification of the delivery of downlink data, thereby reducing the waste of detection resources.

[0050] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes: sending a second confirmation message to the second network element, wherein the second confirmation message includes at least one of the following: second indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; fourth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable; fifth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is available; and a failure cause indication, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0051] In the above embodiment, the first network element can send the detection results of whether the service link is available, the reason for unavailability, and / or the result of whether the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function to the second network element, so that the second network element can accurately know the status of whether the service link is available and / or the authorization status of the UE, etc.; thereby facilitating the second network element to determine whether to send downlink data.

[0052] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving downlink data sent by the second network element; and storing the downlink data when the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0053] In the above embodiment, the first network element stores downlink data when the service link is unavailable, which can reduce the occurrence of downlink data loss; and when the service link is restored, the downlink data can be sent to the terminal in a timely manner.

[0054] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: when a non-access stratum (NAS) connection is established between the terminal and the second network element, performing security protection on the downlink data.

[0055] In the above embodiment, the first network element can perform security protection on the downlink data, thereby reducing the risk of downlink data being leaked.

[0056] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a third notification to the access network device, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0057] In the above embodiment, the first network element can send whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function to the access network device, so that the access network device does not provide services to terminals that are not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, thereby reducing the situation where the access network device resources are exhausted by those terminals that are not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function (such as attackers).

[0058] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first network element is a mobility management entity (MME); and / or the second network element is a serving gateway (S-GW) or a packet data network element (P-GW).

[0059] In the second aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes an information processing method, which is executed by a second network element, including: receiving a first notification sent by a first network element, wherein the first notification is at least used to indicate that the feeder link between the satellite and the ground station becomes unavailable after a first time range.

[0060] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first notification includes at least one of the following: first indication information, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate whether the feeder link is available; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; timer information, wherein the timer information is used to indicate the start of a first timer, and the timing duration of the first timer is determined based on the time when the feeder link is unavailable; coverage availability information, wherein the coverage availability information is at least used to indicate the recovery time of the feeder link; a first identifier set, wherein the first identifier set includes at least one first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate the terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; quota information, wherein the quota information is used to indicate the storage space for data allocated to the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier; and authorization information, wherein the authorization information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

[0061] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes: sending a first confirmation message to the first network element, wherein the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification to the UE context information.

[0062] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, when it is determined that the feeder link is available, a second notification and / or downlink data is sent to the first network element, wherein the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data is being sent.

[0063] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes at least one of the following: determining that the feeder link is available based on the expiration of a first timer; determining that the feeder link is available based on first indication information included in the received first notification, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the feeder link is available; and determining that the feeder link is available based on coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information indicating that the feeder link is available.

[0064] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes: receiving a second confirmation message sent by the first network element, wherein the second confirmation message includes at least one of the following: second indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; fourth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable; fifth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is available; and a failure cause indication, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0065] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: storing downlink data when the feeder link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0066] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first network element is an MME; and / or the second network element is an S-GW or a P-GW.

[0067] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes an information processing method, which is executed by an access network device, including: receiving a third notification sent by a first network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; storing downlink data when the service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0068] In the above embodiment, the access network device can know whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, which is beneficial for the access network device to not provide services to terminals that are not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, thereby reducing the situation where the access network device resources are exhausted by those terminals that are not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function (such as attackers).

[0069] In addition, the access network equipment can store downlink data when the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. This can reduce the loss of downlink data on the one hand, and facilitate the timely sending of downlink data to the terminal after the service link is restored.

[0070] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a first network element, comprising: a first processing module, configured to determine a first operation; wherein, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0071] In the fifth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a second network element, including: a second transceiver module, configured to receive a first notification sent by the first network element, wherein the first notification is at least used to indicate that the feeder link between the satellite and the ground station becomes unavailable within a first time range.

[0072] In the sixth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes an access network device, including: a third transceiver module, configured to receive a third notification sent by the first network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; a third processing module, configured to store downlink data when the service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0073] In the seventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a communication device, comprising one or more processors; wherein the above-mentioned communication device is used to execute optional implementation methods such as the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect.

[0074] In the eighth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a communication system, comprising: a first network element, a second network element and / or an access network device; wherein, the above-mentioned first network element is configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manner of the first aspect, the above-mentioned second network element is configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manner of the second aspect, and / or the above-mentioned access network device is configured to execute the method described in the optional implementation manner of the third aspect.

[0075] In the ninth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a storage medium, which stores instructions. When the instructions are executed on a communication device, the communication device executes the method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect.

[0076] In the tenth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a program product. When the program product is executed by a communication device, the communication device executes the method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect.

[0077] In the eleventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a computer program, which, when running on a computer, enables the computer to execute the information processing method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect and the third aspect.

[0078] In the twelfth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure proposes a chip or a chip system; the chip or chip system includes a processing circuit configured to execute the method described in accordance with the above-mentioned first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, or the optional implementation of the first aspect, second aspect and third aspect.

[0079] It is understood that the above-mentioned network elements, access network devices, communication systems, storage media, program products, computer programs, chips, or chip systems are all used to perform the methods provided by the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can refer to the beneficial effects of the corresponding methods and will not be repeated here.

[0080] The present disclosure provides an information processing method, a network element, an access network device, a communication system, and a storage medium. In some embodiments, the terms information processing method and communication method are interchangeable, the terms information processing device and communication device are interchangeable, and the terms information processing system and communication system are interchangeable.

[0081] The embodiments of the present disclosure are not exhaustive and are merely illustrative of some embodiments, and are not intended to be a specific limitation on the scope of protection of the present disclosure. In the absence of contradiction, each step in a certain embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a certain embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a certain embodiment can be arbitrarily exchanged. In addition, the optional implementation methods in a certain embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; in addition, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. For example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a certain embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments.

[0082] In each embodiment of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified or provided for, the terms and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be used interchangeably. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0083] The terms used in the embodiments of the present disclosure are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure.

[0084] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, elements expressed in the singular, such as "a", "an", "the", "above", "said", "the", "the", etc., may mean "one and only one", or "one or more", "at least one", etc. For example, when using articles such as "a", "an", "the" in English in translation, the noun following the article may be understood as a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0085] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, “plurality” refers to two or more.

[0086] In some embodiments, the terms "at least one," "one or more," "a plurality of," "multiple," etc. may be used interchangeably.

[0087] In some embodiments, descriptions such as "at least one of A and B," "A and / or B," "A in one case, B in another case," or "in response to one case A, in response to another case B" may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (A is executed independently of B); in some embodiments, B (B is executed independently of A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); and in some embodiments, A and B (both A and B are executed). The above is also applicable when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0088] In some embodiments, "A or B" and other descriptions may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (A is executed independently of B); in some embodiments, B (B is executed independently of A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The above is also applicable when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0089] The prefixes such as "first" and "second" in the embodiments of the present disclosure are only used to distinguish different description objects and do not constitute any restriction on the position, order, priority, quantity or content of the description objects. For the statement of the description object, please refer to the description in the context of the claims or embodiments, and no unnecessary restriction should be constituted due to the use of prefixes. For example, if the description object is a "field", the ordinal number before the "field" in the "first field" and the "second field" does not limit the position or order between the "fields". "First" and "second" do not limit whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they limit the order of the "first field" and the "second field". For another example, if the description object is a "level", the ordinal number before the "level" in the "first level" and the "second level" does not limit the priority between the "levels". For another example, the number of description objects is not limited by the ordinal number and can be one or more. Taking "first device" as an example, the number of "devices" can be one or more. In addition, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the description object is "device", then the "first device" and the "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different; for another example, if the description object is "information", then the "first information" and the "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their contents can be the same or different.

[0090] In some embodiments, “including A,” “comprising A,” “used to indicate A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0091] In some embodiments, terms such as "in response to...", "in response to determining...", "in the case of...", "at the time of...", "when...", "if...", "if...", etc. can be used interchangeably.

[0092] In some embodiments, terms such as "greater than", "greater than or equal to", "not less than", "more than", "more than or equal to", "not less than", "higher than", "higher than or equal to", "not less than", and "above" can be replaced with each other, and terms such as "less than", "less than or equal to", "not greater than", "less than", "less than or equal to", "not more than", "lower than", "lower than or equal to", "not higher than", and "below" can be replaced with each other.

[0093] In some embodiments, devices, etc. can be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to the names recorded in the embodiments. Terms such as "device", "equipment", "device", "circuit", "network element", "node", "function", "unit", "section", "system", "network", "chip", "chip system", "entity", and "subject" can be used interchangeably.

[0094] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in the network (eg, access network equipment, core network equipment, etc.).

[0095] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)", "radio access network device (RAN device)", "base station (BS)", "radio base station" "fixed station", "node", "access point", "transmission point (TP)", "reception point (RP)", "transmission / reception point (TRP)", "panel", "antenna panel", "antenna array", "cell", "macro cell", "small cell", "femto cell", "pico cell", "sector", "cell group", "carrier", "component carrier", "bandwidth part (BWP)" and the like may be used interchangeably.

[0096] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, handset, user agent, mobile client, client, etc. can be used interchangeably.

[0097] In some embodiments, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device can be replaced by a terminal. For example, the various embodiments of the present disclosure can also be applied to a structure in which the communication between the access network device, the core network device, or the network device and the terminal is replaced by communication between multiple terminals (for example, it can also be called device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, it can also be set as a structure in which the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. In addition, language such as "uplink" and "downlink" can also be replaced by language corresponding to communication between terminals (for example, "side"). For example, uplink channels, downlink channels, etc. can be replaced by side channels, and uplinks, downlinks, etc. can be replaced by side links.

[0098] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device may have a structure that has all or part of the functions of the terminal.

[0099] In some embodiments, obtaining data, information, etc. may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the data is obtained.

[0100] In some embodiments, data, information, etc. may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0101] In addition, each element, each row, or each column in the table of the embodiment of the present disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the combination of any elements, any rows, and any columns can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0102] FIG1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an information processing system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG1 , the information processing system 100 may include: a terminal 101 and a network device 102 .

[0103] In some embodiments, the network device 102 may include at least one of an access network device and a core network device.

[0104] In some embodiments, the terminal 101 includes, for example, a mobile phone, a wearable device, an Internet of Things (IOT) device or terminal, a car with communication function, a smart car, a tablet computer (Pad), a computer with wireless transceiver function, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in a smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in a smart city, and at least one of a wireless terminal device in a smart home, but is not limited thereto.

[0105] In some embodiments, the access network device is, for example, a node or device that accesses a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include an evolved NodeB (eNB), a next generation evolved NodeB (ng-eNB), a next generation NodeB (gNB), a node B (NB), a home node B (HNB), a home evolved nodeB (HeNB), a wireless backhaul device, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a base band unit (BBU), a mobile switching center, a base station in a 6G communication system, an open base station (Open RAN), a cloud base station (Cloud RAN), a base station in other communication systems, and at least one of an access node in a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system, but is not limited thereto.

[0106] In some embodiments, the technical solution of the present disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within the access network devices involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of the Open RAN, and the processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented through software or programs.

[0107] In some embodiments, the access network device can be composed of a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU), where the CU can also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can be used to split the protocol layer of the access network device, with the functions of some protocol layers centrally controlled by the CU, and the functions of the remaining part or all of the protocol layers distributed in the DU, which is centrally controlled by the CU, but is not limited to this.

[0108] In some embodiments, the core network device may be a device including a first device, a second device, etc., or may be a plurality of devices or a device group, each including all or part of the first device and the second device. The first device and the second device may be network elements; the network element may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of an evolved packet core (EPC), a 5G core network (5GCN), and a next generation core (NGC).

[0109] In some embodiments, the first network element may be a Mobility Management Entity (MME), although its name is not limited thereto. Optionally, the first network element is deployed on a satellite. For example, the first network element may be a non-terrestrial MME (MME-NT) or a newly defined network element function. The first network element is a network element that manages the mobility of mobile devices, including location tracking, authentication, and security management of mobile devices.

[0110] In some embodiments, the second network element may be an S-GW or a P-GW, and the names thereof are not limited thereto. The second network element is a network element having data forwarding and routing functions.

[0111] In some embodiments, the third network element may be an HSS, but its name is not limited thereto. The third network element is a network element having a function of storing user information and service subscription information of the terminal.

[0112] It can be understood that the information processing system described in the embodiment of the present disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solution of the embodiment of the present disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solution provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure. Ordinary technicians in this field can know that with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solution provided by the embodiment of the present disclosure is also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0113] The following embodiments of the present disclosure may be applied to the information processing system 100 shown in FIG1 , or a portion thereof, but are not limited thereto. The entities shown in FIG1 are illustrative only. The information processing system may include all or a portion of the entities shown in FIG1 , or may include other entities outside of FIG1 . The number and form of the entities may be arbitrary. The connection relationships between the entities are illustrative only. The entities may be connected or disconnected, and the connection may be in any manner, including direct or indirect, wired or wireless.

[0114] The embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G New Radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New Radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM (registered trademark)), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX (registered trademark)), IEEE 802.20, Ultra-WideBand (UWB), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems based on and extending these methods. Furthermore, multiple systems may be combined (for example, a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0115] In some embodiments, satellite communications may define "transparent satellite payloads" and "regenerative satellite payloads." In the "regenerative satellite payload" scenario, the satellite supports wireless network layer protocols. Because the satellite is processing the payload, the satellite can store and forward information, and the satellite can establish communication with neighboring satellites via inter-satellite links (ISLs). This communication mode may also be referred to as store-and-forward satellite service operation; the ground station may refer to an NTN gateway, a ground gateway that communicates with the satellite.

[0116] In store-and-forward service operation, the service link between the UE and the satellite (SAT) and the feeder link between the SAT and the ground station may not be available at the same time. If the service link is available but the feeder link is unavailable, the SAT can temporarily store uplink (UL) data from the UE. If the feeder link is available but the service link is unavailable, the SAT can temporarily store downlink (DL) data from the core network (CN).

[0117] However, if UE authorization is not checked before performing a store and forward service operation, the SAT's resources may be exhausted by an attacker and the satellite access service will be stopped. Currently, how to authorize the UE to use the store and forward service operation is very important.

[0118] Optionally, the UE may be a terminal.

[0119] FIG2A is an interactive diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG2A , the present disclosure embodiment relates to an information processing method for an information processing system 100, the method comprising:

[0120] Step S2101: The first network element determines a first operation.

[0121] Optionally, the first network element is deployed on a satellite. For example, the first network element may be an MME or a non-terrestrial MME (MME-NT). In another example, the first network element may be a newly defined network element, entity, or function. In another example, the first network element may be a network element, entity, or function capable of implementing mobility management in a non-terrestrial network. The name of the first network element is not limited.

[0122] Optionally, determining the first operation includes: determining whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. Exemplarily, the first network element determines whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. Exemplarily, the first network element determines whether at least one terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0123] Optionally, the data storage and forwarding function is used to transmit terminal data in a store-and-forward manner in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) access mode. The terminal authorizes the use of the data storage and forwarding function so that the terminal can use the stored and forwarded data for business communications in a network with this feature.

[0124] Optionally, the name of the data storage and forwarding function is not limited, and may be, for example, the first function, the storage and forwarding function, or the storage and forwarding operation, etc. Optionally, the first function is used to indicate that the terminal can enable service communication of storage and forwarding data, etc.

[0125] In some embodiments, the first network element determines a first operation when the first link is unavailable.

[0126] Optionally, the first link may be a feeder link and / or a service link. Exemplarily, the feeder link may be a link between a satellite and a ground station; for example, the feeder link may be a link between a satellite and a gateway in a terrestrial network; or, in another example, the feeder link may be a link between a satellite and a second network element. Exemplarily, the service link may be a link between a satellite and a terminal.

[0127] Optionally, the feeder link may be a link for multiple terminals; the service link may be a link for each terminal. Exemplarily, the link between the satellite and each terminal may constitute a service link; and the feeder link may correspond to one or more service links.

[0128] Optionally, the first network element determines the first operation when the feeder link is unavailable.

[0129] Optionally, the first network element is configured to provide a feeder link that is available but becomes unavailable within a first time range. Here, the feeder link may be currently available but will become unavailable. The first time range refers to a time range that is less than or equal to a first duration; for example, the first time range may be 1 minute, 2 minutes, 10 minutes, or 30 minutes.

[0130] Optionally, the first network element determines the first operation when the service link is unavailable.

[0131] In some embodiments, the first network element determines the first operation based on UE context information.

[0132] Optionally, the UE context information is used to at least indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. For example, the UE context information includes capability information of the terminal, where the capability information is used to indicate that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function or is used to indicate that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. For another example, whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function can be inferred based on the UE context information.

[0133] In some embodiments, the first network element determines the first operation based on UE subscription data obtained from the third network element.

[0134] Optionally, the third network element may be an HSS. The name of the third network element is not limited.

[0135] Optionally, the UE subscription data may include subscription-related data of at least one terminal. For example, the UE subscription data may include at least information on whether at least one terminal is authorized to use the store-and-forward function. For another example, the UE subscription data may be used to indicate at least whether the terminal is authorized to use the data store-and-forward function.

[0136] Optionally, the first network element receives UE subscription data sent by the third network element. Optionally, the UE subscription data is proactively sent by the third network element. Optionally, the UE subscription data is sent by the third network element upon receiving a second request from the first network element, where the second request is used to request the UE subscription data; if the second request includes a first identifier of the terminal, the third network element may further only send the UE subscription data of the terminal corresponding to the first identifier.

[0137] In some optional embodiments, before step S2101, the method may further include: the first network element determining whether the feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range.

[0138] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the feeder link is available within a first time range based on the first information. Optionally, determining whether the feeder link is available includes: determining that the feeder link is available, or determining that the feeder link is unavailable. The feeder link being available may mean that the feeder link is in a connected state. The feeder link being unavailable may mean that the feeder link is in an interrupted or disconnected state.

[0139] Optionally, the first information may include coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information.

[0140] Optionally, the names of the first information, coverage availability information, and ephemeris information may not be limited.

[0141] Exemplarily, the coverage availability information is information related to the satellite and the terminal. For example, the coverage availability information can be used to indicate whether the terminal is within the coverage of the satellite and the movement trajectory of the satellite.

[0142] For example, ephemeris information is information related to a satellite. For example, ephemeris information may include satellite position information, satellite velocity information, and / or satellite trajectory. In another example, ephemeris information may include information related to the satellite's time, coordinates, position, and / or velocity.

[0143] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the feeder link is available within the first time range based on the coverage availability information and / or the ephemeris information.

[0144] Exemplarily, if the first network element determines that the position of the first network element will be out of the coverage of the satellite within the first time range, it determines that the feeder link is unavailable within the first time range; or, if the first network element determines that the position of the first network element moves into the coverage of the satellite within the first time range, it determines that the feeder link is available within the first time range.

[0145] In some optional embodiments, before step S2101, the method may also include: the first network element determining whether the first link is available.

[0146] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the first link is available based on the coverage availability information and / or the ephemeris information.

[0147] In some optional embodiments, before step S2101, the method may further include: the first network element determining whether the service link is available.

[0148] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the service link is available based on the coverage availability information.

[0149] Exemplarily, if the first network element determines that the location of the terminal is not within the coverage of the satellite, it determines that the service link is unavailable; or, if the first network element determines that the location of the terminal is within the coverage of the satellite, it determines that the service link is available.

[0150] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the service link is available according to the paging status of the paging message.

[0151] Exemplarily, the first network element determines that the service link is available based on a successful paging of the paging message.

[0152] Exemplarily, the first network element determines that the service link is unavailable based on a paging failure of the paging message.

[0153] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the service link is available when the feeder link is available.

[0154] Optionally, the first network element determines whether the service link is available based on receiving a second notification sent by the second network element. Optionally, the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data has been sent or arrived.

[0155] Optionally, the name of the second notification is not limited, and it may be, for example, a downlink data notification or a downlink data indication.

[0156] In some embodiments, step S2101 includes step S2101A and / or step S2101B; wherein, step S2101A may include: the first network element determines the first operation when the feeder link is available but becomes unavailable within a first time range; step S2101B may include: the first network element determines the first operation when the service link is unavailable.

[0157] Step S2102: The first network element sends a first notification to the second network element.

[0158] In some embodiments, the second network element receives the first notification sent by the first network element.

[0159] In some embodiments, the first network element sends a first notification to the second network element before the feeder link becomes unavailable. Alternatively, the first network element sends the first notification to the second network element before the feeder link is about to become unavailable. Alternatively, if the first network element determines a start time of the feeder link becoming unavailable, the first network element sends the first notification to the second network element before the start time or before the start time and within a first time range from the start time.

[0160] Optionally, the first notification includes the start time and / or end time when the feeder link becomes unavailable.

[0161] Optionally, the first network element may include at least one of the following: first indication information, second indication information, third indication information, timer information, coverage availability information, a first identification set, quota information, and authorization information.

[0162] Optionally, the first indication information is used to indicate that the feeder link is unavailable or available. Optionally, the first indication information is used to indicate that the feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range.

[0163] Exemplarily, the first indication information is a first value, which is used to indicate that the feeder link is unavailable; or, the first indication information is a second value, which is used to indicate that the feeder link is available.

[0164] Exemplarily, the first field of the first indication information is a first value, and the second field of the first indication information is used to indicate a first time, then the first indication information can be used to indicate that the feeder link is unavailable within a first time range.

[0165] Optionally, the second indication information is used to indicate that a terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0166] Exemplarily, the first field of the second indication information is used to indicate the first identifier of one or more terminals, and the second field of the second indication information is used to indicate that the one or more terminals are authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. Here, the first identifier is used to identify the terminal. Thus, the second indication information can be used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0167] Optionally, the third indication information is used to indicate that a terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0168] Exemplarily, the first field of the third indication information is used to indicate the second identifier of one or more terminals, and the second field of the third indication information indicates that the one or more terminals are not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. Here, the second identifier is used to identify the terminal. Thus, the third indication information can be used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0169] Optionally, the timer information is used to instruct to start a first timer, and the timing duration of the first timer is determined based on the time during which the feeder link is unavailable.

[0170] Exemplarily, the timer information may be used to indicate the timing duration of the first timer.

[0171] Exemplarily, the timer information may be used for all terminals, or the timer information may be used for each terminal. Exemplarily, for different terminals, the first timer is different; and different first timers have different timing durations.

[0172] Exemplarily, the timing duration of the first timer is greater than or equal to the timing time during which the feeder link is unavailable.

[0173] Optionally, the coverage availability information is at least used to indicate the recovery time of the feeder link. Optionally, the coverage availability information may also be the coverage availability information in the previous embodiment.

[0174] Optionally, the first identification set includes at least one first identification; the first identification is used to indicate a terminal that is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0175] Exemplarily, the terminals authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function may be indicated by a first identification set. For example, the first notification includes a first identification set, and the terminals corresponding to the first identifications in the first identification set are all terminals authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0176] Exemplarily, the first identification set and the second indication information may be used to indicate terminals authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. For example, the first identification set is used to indicate at least one terminal; the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. If the first notification includes the first identification set and the second indication information, it indicates that at least one terminal corresponding to the first identification set is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0177] Optionally, the quota information is used to indicate a storage space for data allocated to a terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier.

[0178] Exemplarily, the data storage space allocated to each terminal in at least one terminal can be indicated by quota information. For example, the first field of the quota information is used to indicate the first identifier corresponding to each terminal, and the second field of the quota information is used to indicate the size of the storage space of the terminal corresponding to the first identifier. For example, the first field of the quota information includes the first identifiers of terminal 1, terminal 2, and terminal 3, and the second field of the quota information includes a first value, a second value, and a third value; then the quota information is used to indicate that the storage space allocated for storing data for terminal 1 is the first value, the storage space allocated for storing data for terminal 2 is the second value, and the storage space allocated for storing data for terminal 3 is the third value. Of course, in other embodiments, the quota information can also indicate the size of the storage space of different terminals through different fields; one of the fields can indicate the first identifier of a terminal and the size of the storage space corresponding to the first identifier.

[0179] Exemplarily, the data storage space allocated to each of the at least one terminal may be indicated by a first identifier set and configuration information. For example, the quota information may include a set of storage spaces, such as a first value, a second value, and a third value. For example, if the first identifier set includes the first identifiers of terminal 1, terminal 2, and terminal 3, the first identifier set and quota information may be used to indicate that the storage space allocated for storing data for terminal 1 is the first value, the storage space allocated for storing data for terminal 2 is the second value, and the storage space allocated for storing data for terminal 3 is the third value.

[0180] Optionally, the authorization information is used to indicate that a terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

[0181] Exemplarily, the authorization information may include at least one service identifier; the service identifier is used to indicate the service.

[0182] Exemplarily, if the authorization information includes at least one service identifier, the authorization information indicates that all services corresponding to the at least one service identifier are authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. For example, Terminal 1 includes a first service and a second service; but the authorization information includes the service identifier of the first service, indicating that the first service is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, while the second service is pending or not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. Here, "a service is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function," or "a terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function," means that the data of the service is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0183] In some embodiments, the first indication information, the second indication information, the third indication information, the timer information, the coverage availability information, the first identification set, the quota information, and the authorization information may each be one or more bits, or one or more fields, etc. Furthermore, the first indication information, the second indication information, the third indication information, the timer information, the coverage availability information, the first identification set, the quota information, and the authorization information may not be limited.

[0184] In some embodiments, the name of the first notification is not limited, for example, it can be a UE authorization indication, a feeder link availability indication, a service link availability indication, or a feeder link notification.

[0185] In some optional embodiments, after step S2102, the method may further include: the second network element storing the downlink data.

[0186] Optionally, the second network element receives the first notification and determines whether to store the downlink data based on authorization information in the first notification. For example, the authorization information indicates authorization to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function; if the downlink data is data for the service, the second network element stores the downlink data; or, if the downlink data is not data for the service, the second network element does not store the downlink data (i.e., directly rejects the downlink data).

[0187] Optionally, the second network element may store downlink data when the feeder link is unavailable.

[0188] In some optional embodiments, after step S2102, the method may further include: the second network element sending a second notification and / or downlink data to the first network element.

[0189] Optionally, when it is determined that the feeder link is available, a second notification and / or downlink data is sent to the first network element.

[0190] Optionally, it is determined that the feeder link is available based on expiration of a first timer.

[0191] Exemplarily, the second network element receives timer information sent by the first network element; the second network element starts a first timer based on the timer information, and determines that the feeder link is available when it is determined that the first timer has expired.

[0192] Optionally, the second network element determines that the feeder link is available based on first indication information included in the received first notification; wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the feeder link is available.

[0193] Optionally, the second network element determines that the feeder link is available based on coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information indicating that the feeder link is available.

[0194] Optionally, the downlink data may be data used for data storage and forwarding functions or data sent to a terminal, etc. The downlink data may be any data.

[0195] Optionally, the downlink data may be for a terminal, or the downlink data may be for a service.

[0196] Optionally, the name of the downlink data is not limited, and it can be, for example, first data or downlink terminal data.

[0197] Step S2103: The second network element sends a first confirmation message to the first network element.

[0198] In some embodiments, the first network element receives a first confirmation message sent by the second network element.

[0199] In some embodiments, the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification into the UE context information.

[0200] Exemplarily, the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has successfully received the first notification. After receiving the first notification, the second network element updates the first notification message to the UE context information and sends the first confirmation message to the first network element.

[0201] In some embodiments, the name of the first confirmation message is not limited, and it can be, for example, a notification confirmation indication or a feeder link notification confirmation.

[0202] Step S2104: The first network element sends a second confirmation message to the second network element.

[0203] In some embodiments, the second network element receives a second confirmation message sent by the first network element.

[0204] Optionally, the second confirmation message is determined based on the second notification; the second confirmation notification is used to confirm that the downlink data indicated by the second notification has been sent.

[0205] Optionally, the second confirmation message includes: second indication information, third indication information, fourth indication information, fifth indication information and a failure reason indication.

[0206] Optionally, the second indication information and the third indication information may be the second indication information and the third indication information in the previous embodiment, respectively.

[0207] Optionally, the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the service link is unavailable. Optionally, the fourth indication information is used to indicate that at least one service link is unavailable. For example, the first field of the fourth indication information indicates the second identifier of at least one or more service links, and the second field of the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the one or more service links are unavailable.

[0208] Optionally, the fifth indication information is used to indicate that a service link is available. Optionally, the fifth indication information is used to indicate that at least one service link is available. For example, the first field of the fifth indication information is used to indicate that at least one service link is available, and the second field of the fifth indication information is used to indicate that the one or more service links are available.

[0209] Optionally, the failure cause indication is used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. Optionally, the failure cause indication can be used to indicate that the service link corresponding to at least one terminal and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0210] In some embodiments, the second indication information, the third indication information, the fourth indication information, the fifth indication information, and the failure cause indication may each be one or more bits, or one or more fields, etc.

[0211] In some embodiments, the name of the second confirmation message is not limited, for example, it can be a UE authorization indication, a service link availability indication, or a service link notification.

[0212] In some optional embodiments, before step S2104, the method may further include: the second network element sending a first notification to the first network element. Optionally, the first network element receives the first notification sent by the second network element.

[0213] In some optional embodiments, step S2101B and step S2101A may be used as separate embodiments.

[0214] In some optional embodiments, step S2101B is implemented before step S2104. For example, the combination of step S2101A, step S2102, step S2103, step S2101B, and step S2104 is an independent embodiment.

[0215] Step S2105: The first network element stores the downlink data.

[0216] In some embodiments, the first network element stores downlink data when the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. At this time, the feeder link is available.

[0217] In some optional embodiments, before step S2105, the first network element receives downlink data sent by the second network element. For example, when the second network element determines that the feeder link is available, the second network element sends the downlink data to the first network element.

[0218] In some optional embodiments, if the second network element is an S-GW, before step S2105, the S-GW receives the downlink data sent by the P-GW and determines whether to send the downlink data to the first network element. For example, if the S-GW determines that the downlink data is downlink data of a terminal that is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the S-GW stores the downlink data and / or sends the downlink data to the first network element; alternatively, if the S-GW determines that the downlink data is downlink data of a terminal that is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the S-GW does not store the downlink data and / or returns a failure reason to the P-GW.

[0219] Optionally, the S-GW can determine whether the above-mentioned terminal is a terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function through the first identification set in the first notification; for example, if the terminal's identification is included in the first identification set, the terminal is determined to be a terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or if the terminal's identification is not included in the first identification set, the terminal is determined to be a terminal not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0220] In some optional embodiments, the first network element performs security protection on the downlink data.

[0221] Optionally, performing security includes: performing confidentiality encryption and / or performing integrity protection. Here, performing confidentiality encryption may use any confidentiality encryption algorithm; performing integrity protection may use any integrity protection algorithm.

[0222] Optionally, the first network element performs security protection on the downlink data when a NAS connection is established between the terminal and the first network element.

[0223] Optionally, the first network element sends the security-protected downlink data to the terminal when the service link is available. For example, the second network element sends the security-protected downlink data to the terminal via a NAS connection.

[0224] In some optional embodiments, the first network element sends a third notification to the access network device, where the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0225] Optionally, when the third notification sent by the first network element to the access network is used to indicate that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the third notification is used for the access network device to store downlink data.

[0226] Optionally, the name of the third notification is not limited, and it may be, for example, a terminal authorization indication or a store and forward function indication.

[0227] Step S2106: The access network device stores the downlink data.

[0228] In some embodiments, the access network device receives a third notification sent by the second network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; and stores downlink data when the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0229] Optionally, the access network device may determine whether the service link is available based on the ephemeris information; or, the access network device may determine whether the service link is available based on the second confirmation message sent by the first network element.

[0230] Optionally, the way in which the access network device determines whether the service link is available based on the ephemeris information is similar to the way in which the first network element or the second network element determines whether the service link is available based on the ephemeris information.

[0231] In some embodiments, the names of information, etc. are not limited to the names described in the embodiments, and terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "symbol", "codeword", "codebook", "codeword", "codepoint", "bit", "data", "program", and "chip" can be used interchangeably.

[0232] In some embodiments, "obtain", "get", "get", "receive", "transmit", "bidirectional transmission", "send and / or receive" can be interchangeable, and can be interpreted as receiving from other entities, obtaining from protocols, obtaining from higher layers, obtaining by self-processing, autonomous implementation, etc.

[0233] In some embodiments, terms such as "send", "transmit", "report", "download", "transmit", "bidirectional transmission", "send and / or receive" can be used interchangeably.

[0234] In some embodiments, terms such as "certain", "preset", "preset", "setting", "indicated", "some", "any", and "first" can be interchangeable. "Specific A", "preset A", "preset A", "setting A", "indicated A", "some A", "any A", and "first A" can be interpreted as A pre-specified in a protocol, etc., or as A obtained through setting, configuration, or indication, etc., or as specific A, some A, any A, or first A, etc., but not limited to this.

[0235] In some embodiments, the determination or judgment can be performed by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), or by a true or false value (Boolean value) represented by true or false, or by comparison of numerical values ​​(for example, comparison with a predetermined value), but is not limited thereto.

[0236] The information processing method involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2106. For example, step S2101 (which may include step S2101A and / or step S2101B) may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2102 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2103 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2104 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2105 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2106 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101A and step S2102 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2102 and step S2103 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101A, step S2102, and step S2103 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2102 and step S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101B and step S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2104 and step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101, step S2102 and step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101, step S2104 and step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2105 and step S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101 to step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S2101 to step S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0237] In some embodiments, steps S2102 to S2106 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0238] In some embodiments, step S2101 and step S2103 to step S2106 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0239] In some embodiments, steps S2101 to S2103 and steps S2105 to S2106 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0240] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0241] FIG2B is an interactive diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG2B , the present disclosure embodiment relates to an information processing method for an information processing system 100, and the method includes:

[0242] Step S2201: When a feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range, a first network element determines a first operation.

[0243] The optional implementation of step S2201 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0244] Step S2202: The first network element sends a first notification to the second network element.

[0245] The optional implementation of step S2202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2102 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0246] Step S2203: The second network element sends a first confirmation message to the first network element.

[0247] The optional implementation of step S2203 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0248] Step S2204: The first network element determines a first operation when the serving link is unavailable. At this time, the feeder link is available.

[0249] Before step S2204, the first network element receives the second notification and / or downlink data sent by the second network element.

[0250] The optional implementation of step S2204 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0251] Step S2205: The first network element sends a second confirmation message to the second network element.

[0252] The optional implementation of step S2205 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2104 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0253] Step S2206: The first network element stores the downlink data.

[0254] The optional implementation of step S2206 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0255] In some optional embodiments, the first network element sends a third notification to the access network device.

[0256] Step S2207: The access network device stores the downlink data.

[0257] The optional implementation of step S2207 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0258] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0259] FIG2C is an interactive diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG2C , the present disclosure embodiment relates to an information processing method for an information processing system 100, the method comprising:

[0260] Step S2301: The first network element determines a first operation when the feeder link is available and the service link is unavailable.

[0261] The optional implementation of step S2301 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0262] Step S2302: The first network element sends a second confirmation message to the second network element.

[0263] The optional implementation of step S2302 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2104 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0264] Step S2303: The first network element stores the downlink data.

[0265] The optional implementation of step S2303 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0266] In some optional embodiments, the first network element sends a third notification to the access network device.

[0267] Step S2304: The access network device stores the downlink data.

[0268] The optional implementation of step S2304 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0269] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0270] FIG2D is an interactive diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG2D , the present disclosure embodiment relates to an information processing method for a core network device, the method comprising:

[0271] Step S2401: The core network device sends a third notification to the access network device, where the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0272] The optional implementation method of step S2401 can be found in the optional implementation method of the first network element sending the third notification to the access network device in step S2105 of Figure 2A, and other related parts of the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0273] Step S2402: The access network device stores downlink data when the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0274] The optional implementation of step S2402 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0275] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0276] FIG3A is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG3A , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0277] Step S3101: determine the first operation.

[0278] The optional implementation of step S3101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0279] Optionally, the first network element determines the first operation when the feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range; or the first network element determines the first operation when the feeder link is unavailable.

[0280] Optionally, the first network element determines the first operation when the service link is unavailable.

[0281] Step S3102: Send a first notification.

[0282] The optional implementation of step S3102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2102 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0283] In some embodiments, the first network element may send the first notification to the second network element, but is not limited thereto and may also send the first notification to other entities.

[0284] Step S3103: Obtain a first confirmation message.

[0285] The optional implementation of step S3103 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0286] In some embodiments, the first network element receives the first confirmation message sent by the second network element, but is not limited thereto. The first confirmation message sent by other entities may also be received.

[0287] In some embodiments, the first network element obtains a first confirmation message specified by the protocol.

[0288] In some embodiments, the first network element obtains the first confirmation message from an upper layer(s).

[0289] In some embodiments, the first network element performs processing to obtain a first confirmation message.

[0290] In some embodiments, step S3103 is omitted, and the terminal autonomously implements the function indicated by the first confirmation message, or the above function is default or acquiescent.

[0291] Step S3104: Send a second confirmation message.

[0292] Optionally, before step S3104, the process may further include receiving a second notification and / or downlink data.

[0293] The optional implementation of step S3104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2104 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0294] In some embodiments, the first network element may send the second confirmation message to the second network element, but is not limited thereto, and the second confirmation message may also be sent to other entities.

[0295] Step S3105: store downlink data.

[0296] The optional implementation of step S3105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0297] The information processing method involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of steps S3101 to S3105. For example, step S3101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S3102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S3103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S3105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S3101 and step S3102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S3102 and step S3103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S3101 and step S3102 and step S3103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S3101 and step S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S3101 and step S3105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S3101 to S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S3101 to S3105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0298] In some embodiments, steps S3102 to S3105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0299] In some embodiments, step S3101 and step S3103 to step S3105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0300] In some embodiments, steps S3101 to S3103 and step S3105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0301] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0302] FIG3B is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG3B , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0303] Step S3201: determine the first operation.

[0304] The optional implementation of step S3201 can be found in step S2101 in FIG. 2A , or the optional implementation of step S3101 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0305] In some embodiments, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0306] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, determining a first operation includes at least one of the following: determining a first operation when a feeder link is available but becomes unavailable within a first time range; wherein the feeder link is a link between a satellite and a ground station; and determining a first operation when a service link is unavailable; wherein the service link is a link between a satellite and a terminal.

[0307] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method includes: determining whether the feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range based on first information; wherein the first information includes coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information.

[0308] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: before the feeder link becomes unavailable, sending a first notification to the second network element, wherein the first notification includes at least one of the following: first indication information, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate whether the feeder link is available; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; timer information, wherein the timer information is used to indicate the start of a first timer, and the timing duration of the first timer is determined based on the time when the feeder link is unavailable; coverage availability information, wherein the coverage availability information is at least used to indicate the recovery time of the feeder link; a first identifier set, wherein the first identifier set includes at least one first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate a terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; quota information, wherein the quota information is used to indicate the storage space for data allocated to the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier; and authorization information, wherein the authorization information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

[0309] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes: receiving a first confirmation message sent by the second network element, wherein the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification to the UE context information.

[0310] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, when the service link is unavailable, before determining the first operation, it also includes one of the following: when the feeder link becomes available, determining whether the service link between the satellite and the terminal is available; and determining whether the service link is available based on receiving a second notification sent by the second network element; wherein the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data is being sent.

[0311] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method also includes: sending a second confirmation message to the second network element, wherein the second confirmation message includes at least one of the following: second indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; fourth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable; fifth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is available; and a failure cause indication, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0312] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving downlink data sent by the second network element; and storing the downlink data when the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0313] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: when a NAS connection is established between the terminal and the second network element, performing security protection on the downlink data.

[0314] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a third notification to the access network device, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0315] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first network element is an MME; and / or the second network element is an S-GW or a P-GW.

[0316] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0317] FIG3C is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG3C , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0318] Step S3301: When a feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range, determine a first operation.

[0319] The optional implementation of step S3301 can be found in step S2101 in Figure 2A, or the optional implementation of step S3101 in Figure 3A, and other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figures 2A and 3A, which will not be repeated here.

[0320] Step S3302: Send a first notification to the first network element.

[0321] The optional implementation of step S3302 can be found in step S2102 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S3102 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0322] Step S3303: Receive a first confirmation message sent by the first network element.

[0323] The optional implementation of step S3303 can be found in step S2103 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S3103 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0324] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0325] FIG3D is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG3D , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0326] Step S3401, obtain the second notification.

[0327] Optional implementations of step S3401 may be found in other related parts of the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , and will not be described in detail here.

[0328] Step S3402: When the service link is unavailable, determine a first operation.

[0329] The optional implementation of step S3402 can be found in step S2101 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S3101 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0330] Step S3403: Send a second confirmation message.

[0331] The optional implementation of step S3403 can be found in step S2104 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S3104 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0332] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0333] FIG3E is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG3E , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0334] Step S3501: When the feeder link is available and the service link is unavailable, determine a first operation.

[0335] The optional implementation of step S3501 can be found in step S2101 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S3101 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0336] Step S3502: Send a second confirmation message.

[0337] The optional implementation of step S3502 can be found in step S2104 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S3104 in FIG. 3A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0338] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 3A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0339] FIG4A is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG4A , the present disclosure embodiment relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a network device. The method includes:

[0340] Step S4101, obtain the first notification.

[0341] Optionally, the first notification is sent after the first network element determines the first operation; determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0342] The optional implementation of step S4101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2102 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0343] In some embodiments, the access network device receives the first notification sent by the terminal, but is not limited thereto and may also receive the first notification sent by other entities.

[0344] In some embodiments, the access network device obtains a first notification specified by a protocol.

[0345] In some embodiments, the access network device obtains the first notification from upper layer(s).

[0346] In some embodiments, the access network device performs processing to obtain the first notification.

[0347] In some embodiments, step S4101 is omitted, and the terminal autonomously implements the function indicated by the first notification, or the above function is default or by default.

[0348] Step S4102: Send a first confirmation message.

[0349] The optional implementation of step S4102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0350] In some embodiments, the first network element may send the first confirmation message to the second network element, but is not limited thereto, and the first confirmation message may also be sent to other entities.

[0351] Step S4103: Send a second notification and / or downlink data.

[0352] For optional implementations of step S4103, please refer to other related parts of the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here. For example, please refer to the optional implementation of the second network element sending the second notification and / or downlink data in step S2102 in Figure 2A.

[0353] Step S4104: Obtain a second confirmation message.

[0354] The optional implementation of step S4104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2104 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0355] Step S4105: store downlink data.

[0356] For optional implementations of step S4105, please refer to other related parts of the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here. For example, please refer to the optional implementation of the second network element storing downlink data in step S2102 in Figure 2A.

[0357] The information processing method involved in the embodiment of the present disclosure may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4105. For example, step S4101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4101 and step S4102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4101, step S4102 and step S4103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4101 and step S4103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4103 and step S4104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4103, step S4104 and step S4105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4101 to step S4104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of step S4101 to step S4105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0358] In some embodiments, steps S4102 to S4105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0359] In some embodiments, step S4101 and step S4103 to step S4105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0360] In some embodiments, steps S4101 to S4103 and step S4105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0361] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0362] FIG4B is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG4B , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a second network element. The method includes:

[0363] Step S4201: Receive a first notification sent by a first network element.

[0364] The optional implementation of step S4201 can be found in step S2102 in FIG. 2A , or the optional implementation of step S4101 in FIG. 4A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0365] In some embodiments, the first notification is used to at least indicate that a feeder link between the satellite and the ground station becomes unavailable after a first time frame.

[0366] The first notification includes at least one of the following: first indication information, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate whether the feeder link is available; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; timer information, wherein the timer information is used to indicate the start of a first timer, and the timing duration of the first timer is determined based on the time when the feeder link is unavailable; coverage availability information, wherein the coverage availability information is at least used to indicate the recovery time of the feeder link; a first identifier set, wherein the first identifier set includes at least one first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate the terminal that is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; quota information, wherein the quota information is used to indicate the storage space for data allocated to the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier; and authorization information, wherein the authorization information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

[0367] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a first confirmation message to the first network element, wherein the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification to the UE context information.

[0368] In some embodiments, when it is determined that the feeder link is available, a second notification and / or downlink data is sent to the first network element, wherein the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data is being sent.

[0369] In some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: determining that the feeder link is available based on expiration of a first timer; determining that the feeder link is available based on first indication information included in a received first notification, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the feeder link is available; and determining that the feeder link is available based on coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information indicating that the feeder link is available.

[0370] In some embodiments, the method also includes: receiving a second confirmation message sent by the first network element, wherein the second confirmation message includes at least one of the following: second indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; fourth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable; fifth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is available; and a failure cause indication, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0371] In some embodiments, the method further includes: storing the downlink data when the feeder link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0372] In some embodiments, the first network element is an MME; and / or the second network element is an S-GW or a P-GW.

[0373] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0374] FIG4C is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG4C , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0375] Step S4301: Receive a first notification sent by a first network element.

[0376] The optional implementation of step S4301 can be found in step S2101 in FIG. 2A , or the optional implementation of step S4101 in FIG. 4A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0377] Step S4302: When it is determined that the feeder link is available, a second notification and / or downlink data is sent.

[0378] The optional implementation of step S4302 can refer to the optional implementation of step S4103 in Figure 4A and other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figures 2A and 4A, which will not be repeated here.

[0379] Step S4303: Receive a second confirmation message sent by the second network element.

[0380] The optional implementation of step S4303 can be found in step S2104 in FIG. 2A or the optional implementation of step S4104 in FIG. 4A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0381] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0382] FIG4D is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG4D , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0383] Step S4401: Receive a second confirmation message sent by a second network element.

[0384] The optional implementation of step S4401 can be found in step S2104 in FIG. 2A , or the optional implementation of step S4104 in FIG. 4A , and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0385] The above embodiments may be implemented individually or in combination with each other. For optional implementations, please refer to the optional implementations of the steps in FIG. 2A and FIG. 4A , which will not be described in detail here.

[0386] Figure 5 is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 5, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which is executed by an access network device. The method includes:

[0387] Step S5101, obtain the third notification.

[0388] Optionally, the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function;

[0389] The optional implementation of step S5101 can be found in the optional implementation of receiving the third notification sent by the first network element in step S2105 of Figure 2A, and other related parts of the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0390] Step S5102: store downlink data.

[0391] The optional implementation of step S5102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in Figure 2A and other related parts in the embodiment involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0392] Optionally, the access network device stores the downlink data when the service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0393] The information processing method involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least one of step S5101 and step S5102. For example, step S5101 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S5102 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; or a combination of step S5101 and step S5102 may be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0394] In some embodiments, step S5101 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0395] In some embodiments, step S5102 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0396] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0397] FIG6 is a flow chart of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG6 , the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which includes:

[0398] Optionally, the MME ensures that the MME can check the UE's authorization of the mobile terminal data. Here, the UE's authorization refers to whether the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. The UE may be the terminal in the previous embodiment; the MME may be the first network element in the previous embodiment.

[0399] Optionally, before the feeder link becomes unavailable, the MME provides feeder link related information to the S-GW. The S-GW may be the second network element in the previous embodiment.

[0400] The feeder link between the MME and the NTN gateway is available but will become unavailable. This feeder link is the feeder link in the previous embodiment.

[0401] Step S6101: The MME checks the authorization of the UE when the feeder link is about to become unavailable.

[0402] Optionally, the MME on the SAT detects that the feeder link will become unavailable by using the coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information of the satellite, and then the MME checks which UEs are authorized to use the store-and-forward service operation based on the UE context. Here, the UE is authorized to use the store-and-forward service operation, that is, the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0403] Step S6102: The MME sends a feeder link notification to the S-GW.

[0404] Optionally, the feeder link notification may be the first notification in the previous embodiment.

[0405] Optionally, for an authorized UE, the MME sends a feeder link notification to the S-GW to which it is connected. The feeder link notification may include a backoff timer, coverage availability information, a list of UEs authorized for the data storage and forwarding function, a quota for the data storage and forwarding function, and / or authorization information for the data storage and forwarding function. The backoff timer may be the first timer or timer information in the previous embodiment; the quota may be the previous quota information; and the UE list may be the first identifier set in the previous embodiment.

[0406] Optionally, the authorization information may be an indication of support for the store-and-forward service operation, or may be a group of services that allow some service data to use the store-and-forward service operation. Here, the data store-and-forward function may be for one service, or for multiple services or a group of services, or for one terminal, or for multiple terminals.

[0407] Step S6103: The S-GW sends a feeder link notification confirmation to the MME.

[0408] Optionally, the feeder link notification acknowledgment (feeder link notification ack) may be the first acknowledgment message in the previous embodiment.

[0409] The feeder link between the MME and the NTN gateway becomes unavailable.

[0410] Step S6104: The P-GW sends downlink data to the S-GW.

[0411] Optionally, when the S-GW receives a downlink data packet or control signaling for a UE authorized for data storage and forwarding (i.e., a UE in the UE list), the S-GW buffers the downlink data packet and identifies which MME agent is serving the UE. Alternatively, if the S-GW receives a downlink data packet or control signaling for a UE not authorized for data storage and forwarding (i.e., a UE not in the UE list), the S-GW returns a message indicating the cause of the failure.

[0412] Step S6105: The S-GW and / or P-GW stores the downlink data.

[0413] Optionally, for downlink data of a UE that is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, when the feeder link is unavailable, the S-GW and / or P-GW may temporarily store the downlink data.

[0414] The feeder link between the MME and the NTN gateway becomes available.

[0415] Step S6106: The S-GW sends downlink data and / or downlink data notification to the MME.

[0416] Optionally, the downlink data notification may be the second notification in the previous embodiment.

[0417] Optionally, once the backoff timer expires, or the S-GW detects that the feeder link is now available, or the S-GW receives downlink data when the feeder link is available, the S-GW resends the downlink data and / or sends a downlink data notification. The downlink data notification may be a downlink data notification message.

[0418] Step S6107: When the serving link is unavailable, the MME checks the authorization of the UE.

[0419] Optionally, upon receiving the downlink data notification, the MME checks the UE's authorization. Since the MME is on the SAT, the MME can detect the status of the service link between the UE and the satellite. The status of the service link refers to whether the service link is available or unavailable.

[0420] Optionally, when the serving link is unavailable, the MME further checks the UE's authorization by checking the UE context.

[0421] Optionally, if the serving link is unavailable and the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or if the serving link is available, the MME returns a downlink data notification confirmation to the S-GW. Otherwise, the MME returns a downlink data notification message including a failure reason. The downlink data notification confirmation may be a downlink data notification confirmation message.

[0422] Step S6108: The MME sends a downlink data notification confirmation to the S-GW.

[0423] Optionally, the downlink data notification confirmation may be the second confirmation message in the previous embodiment.

[0424] Optionally, when the serving link is unavailable and the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the MME sends a second confirmation message to the S-GW.

[0425] Optionally, when the service link is available, the MME sends a second confirmation message to the S-GW.

[0426] Optionally, when the service link is unavailable or the UE is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the MME sends a second confirmation message to the S-GW. Here, the second confirmation message includes a failure reason, which may be the failure reason indication in the previous embodiment.

[0427] The following steps S6109A to S6113A are performed in the control plane cellular internet of things (CIoT).

[0428] Step S6109A: The S-GW sends downlink data to the MME.

[0429] Optionally, the S-GW sends downlink data to the MME on the SAT; if the serving link is unavailable, the MME stores the downlink data.

[0430] Step S6110A: The MME sends a paging request to the UE through the access network device.

[0431] Optionally, when a service link is available, the MME sends a paging request to the UE through an access network device (eg, an eNB).

[0432] In step S6111A, the UE sends a service request to the MME through the access network device.

[0433] In step S6112A, the MME performs security protection on the downlink data.

[0434] Optionally, the MME uses NAS security to protect downlink data when a NAS connection between the UE and the MME is securely established.

[0435] Step S6113A: The MME sends downlink data to the UE.

[0436] Optionally, the MME sends downlink data to the UE by using a NAS message.

[0437] The following steps S6109B to S7613B are performed in the user plane CIoT process.

[0438] Step S6109B: The MME sends the UE's authorization status to the access network device.

[0439] Optionally, the MME sends an S1-AP message to the access device (e.g., eNB) for user plane activation. The MME also notifies the access network device of the UE's authorization status. Here, the UE's authorization status refers to whether the UE is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function. For example, the MME may notify the access network device of the UE's authorization status via the third notification in the previous embodiment.

[0440] Step S6110B: MME activates the S1-U bearer.

[0441] Optionally, the access network device sends a UE Context Resume Request message to the MME to reactivate the S1-U bearer; the MME requests the S-GW to reactivate the S1-U bearer for the UE.

[0442] Step S6111B: The S-GW sends downlink data to the access network device.

[0443] Optionally, the access network device sends downlink data to the base station; if the service link is unavailable, the access network device stores the downlink data.

[0444] Step S6112B: The access network device sends a paging request to the UE.

[0445] Optionally, when determining that the service link is available, the access network device sends a paging request to the UE.

[0446] Step S6113B: The UE establishes an RRC connection with the base station.

[0447] Step S6114B: The access network device sends downlink data to the UE.

[0448] Optionally, the access network device provides downlink data to the UE via AS security protection.

[0449] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, each embodiment can be implemented individually or in combination with each other, and the steps in each embodiment can be distinguished in order.

[0450] The present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which includes:

[0451] On the MME side:

[0452] In some embodiments, the MME can send a feeder link notification to the S-GW in the event that the serving link becomes unavailable.

[0453] In some embodiments, the MME can provide the S-GW with a backoff timer, coverage availability information, a list of UEs authorized for the data storage and forwarding function, a quota for the data storage and forwarding function, and / or authorization information for the data storage and forwarding function.

[0454] In some embodiments, the MME can receive a feeder link notification acknowledgment.

[0455] In some embodiments, when the feeder link is unavailable or about to become unavailable, the MME determines whether the UE is authorized to use the store and forward service operation, that is, determines whether the terminal is authorized to use the data store and forward function.

[0456] In some embodiments, the MME can receive downlink data and perform ciphering and / or integrity protection.

[0457] On the S-GW side:

[0458] In some embodiments, the S-GW is capable of receiving a feeder link notification message.

[0459] In some embodiments, the S-GW can send a Link Notification Acknowledgement message.

[0460] In some embodiments, the S-GW can store a back-off timer, coverage availability information, a quota for the data storage and forwarding function, and / or authorization information for the data storage and forwarding function in the UE context information.

[0461] In some embodiments, the S-GW can store downlink data via a received backoff timer.

[0462] In some embodiments, the S-GW can send downlink data and / or downlink data notification based on the status of the backoff timer and / or the feeder link.

[0463] For access network equipment (such as base stations):

[0464] In some embodiments, the access network device can receive the authorization status of the UE from the MME and store the downlink data of the authorized UE when the service link is unavailable. Here, the authorized UE refers to the UE authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

[0465] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, some or all of the steps and their optional implementations may be arbitrarily combined with some or all of the steps in other embodiments, and may also be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementations of other embodiments.

[0466] The embodiments of the present disclosure further provide an apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is provided, comprising units or modules for implementing each step performed by a terminal in any of the above methods. For another example, another apparatus is provided, comprising units or modules for implementing each step performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network function node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0467] It should be understood that the division of the various units or modules in the above device is merely a division of logical functions. In actual implementation, they may be fully or partially integrated into a physical entity, or they may be physically separated. In addition, the units or modules in the device may be implemented in the form of a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor, the processor is connected to a memory, and the memory stores instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or implement the functions of the various units or modules of the above device, wherein the processor is, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory is a memory within the device or a memory outside the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits, and the functions of some or all of the units or modules can be realized by designing the hardware circuits. The above-mentioned hardware circuits can be understood as one or more processors; for example, in one implementation, the above-mentioned hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functions of some or all of the above units or modules are realized by designing the logical relationship of the components in the circuit; for example, in another implementation, the above-mentioned hardware circuit can be realized by a programmable logic device (PLD). Taking a field programmable gate array (FPGA) as an example, it can include a large number of logic gate circuits, and the connection relationship between the logic gate circuits is configured by configuring the configuration file, thereby realizing the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. All units or modules of the above devices can be realized in the form of software called by the processor, or in the form of hardware circuits, or in part by the form of software called by the processor, and the rest by hardware circuits.

[0468] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction reading and execution capabilities, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP); in another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationship of the hardware circuit, and the logical relationship of the above-mentioned hardware circuit is fixed or reconfigurable, such as a hardware circuit implemented by a processor as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document to implement the hardware circuit configuration can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. In addition, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a deep learning processing unit (DPU), etc.

[0469] Figure 7A is a structural diagram of the first network element 7100 provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 7A, the first network element 7100 includes: a first processing module 7101 and a first transceiver module 7102. In some embodiments, the first processing module 7101 is used to determine a first operation. Optionally, the first processing module is used to perform processing steps (for example, steps S2101 and / or step S2105, but not limited thereto). In some embodiments, the first transceiver module 7102 is used to send a first notification. Optionally, the above-mentioned first transceiver module 7102 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (for example, steps S2102 and / or step S2103 and / or step S2104, but not limited thereto) performed by the terminal in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0470] Figure 7B is a structural diagram of the second network element 7200 provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 7B, the second network element 7200 includes: a second processing module 7201 and a second transceiver module 7202. In some embodiments, the second processing module 7201 is used to store downlink data. The above-mentioned second processing module 7201 is used to perform at least one of the processing steps performed by the second network element in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here. In some embodiments, the above-mentioned second transceiver module 7202 is used to receive a first notification. Optionally, the above-mentioned second transceiver module 7202 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (such as step S2102 and / or step S2103 and / or step S21041, but not limited to these) performed by the second network element in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0471] Figure 7C is a structural diagram of the access network device 7300 provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 7C, the access network device 7300 includes: a third transceiver module 7301 and a third processing module 7302. In some embodiments, the third transceiver module 7301 is used to receive a third notification. Optionally, the third transceiver module 7301 is used to execute at least one of the steps of sending and / or receiving (such as S2105 and other steps, but not limited to these) executed by the access network device in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here. In some embodiments, the fourth processing module 7302 is used to store downlink data. The fourth processing module 7302 is used to execute at least one of the steps of processing executed by the access network device in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0472] In some embodiments, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and / or a receiving module. The transmitting module and the receiving module may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the transceiver module and the transceiver may be interchangeable. Exemplarily, the first transceiver module includes a first transmitting module and / or a first receiving module. Exemplarily, the second transceiver module includes a second transmitting module and / or a second receiving module.

[0473] In some embodiments, the processing module can be a single module or can include multiple submodules. Optionally, the multiple submodules respectively execute all or part of the steps required to be executed by the processing module. Optionally, the processing module can be interchangeable with the processor.

[0474] Figure 8A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 8100 proposed in an embodiment of the present disclosure. Communication device 8100 can be a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network device, etc.), a terminal, etc., or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports a network device in implementing any of the above methods. It can also be a chip, chip system, or processor that supports a terminal in implementing any of the above methods. Communication device 8100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments. For details, please refer to the description of the above method embodiments.

[0475] As shown in Figure 8A, the communication device 8100 includes one or more processors 8101. The processor 8101 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, for example, a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process the communication protocol and communication data, and the central processing unit can be used to control the communication device (such as a base station, a baseband chip, a terminal device, a terminal device chip, a DU or a CU, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 8100 is used to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 8101 are used to call instructions to enable the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods.

[0476] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more transceivers 8102. When the communication device 8100 includes one or more transceivers 8102, the transceiver 8102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S2102 and / or step S2103 and / or step S2104, but not limited thereto), and the processor 8101 performs at least one of the other steps (e.g., steps S2101 and / or step S2105 and / or step S2106, but not limited thereto). In an optional embodiment, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, and the receiver and transmitter may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, and interface may be interchangeable, the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, and transmitting circuit may be interchangeable, and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, and receiving circuit may be interchangeable.

[0477] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more memories 8103 for storing data. Alternatively, all or part of the memories 8103 may be located outside the communication device 8100. In alternative embodiments, the communication device 8100 may include one or more interface circuits 8104. Optionally, the interface circuits 8104 are connected to the memories 8103 and may be configured to receive data from the memories 8103 or other devices, or to send data to the memories 8103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuits 8104 may read data stored in the memories 8103 and send the data to the processor 8101.

[0478] The communication device 8100 described in the above embodiment may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 8100 described in the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 8100 may not be limited by FIG. 8A. The communication device may be an independent device or may be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) an independent integrated circuit IC, or a chip, or a chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the above IC collection may also include a storage component for storing data or programs; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, a terminal device, an intelligent terminal device, a cellular phone, a wireless device, a handheld device, a mobile unit, an in-vehicle device, a network device, a cloud device, an artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0479] FIG8B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip 8200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. If the communication device 8100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of the structure of the chip 8200 shown in FIG8B , but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0480] The chip 8200 includes one or more processors 8201. The chip 8200 is configured to execute any of the above methods.

[0481] In some embodiments, chip 8200 further includes one or more interface circuits 8202. Terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pins may be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 8200 further includes one or more memories 8203 for storing data. Alternatively, all or part of memory 8203 may be located external to chip 8200. Optionally, interface circuit 8202 is connected to memory 8203 and may be used to receive data from memory 8203 or other devices, or may be used to send data to memory 8203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 8202 may read data stored in memory 8203 and send the data to processor 8201.

[0482] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 8202 performs at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, in the above method (e.g., steps S2102 and / or S2103 and / or S2104, but not limited thereto). The interface circuit 8202 performing the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, in the above method, for example, means that the interface circuit 8202 performs data exchange between the processor 8201, the chip 8200, the memory 8203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 8201 performs at least one of the other steps (e.g., steps S2101 and / or S2105 and / or S2106, but not limited thereto).

[0483] The modules and / or devices described in various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be arbitrarily combined or separated according to circumstances. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0484] The present disclosure also proposes a storage medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed on the communication device 8100, causes the communication device 8100 to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but is not limited thereto, and may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but is not limited thereto, and may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0485] The present disclosure also provides a program product, which, when executed by the communication device 8100, enables the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product.

[0486] The present disclosure also proposes a computer program, which, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to perform any one of the above methods.

Claims

1. An information processing method, characterized in that: Executed by the first network element, including: Determine a first operation; wherein, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that The determining of the first operation includes at least one of the following: determining a first operation if a feeder link is available but becomes unavailable within a first time range; wherein the feeder link is a link between a satellite and a ground station; In the case that a service link is unavailable, a first operation is determined; wherein the service link is a link between a satellite and a terminal.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that The method comprises: Based on first information, it is determined whether the feeder link becomes unavailable within a first time range; wherein the first information includes coverage availability information and / or ephemeris information.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that The method further comprises: Before the feeder link becomes unavailable, sending a first notification to the second network element, wherein the first notification includes at least one of the following: first indication information, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate whether the feeder link is available; Second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; Timer information, wherein the timer information is used to indicate starting a first timer, and a timing duration of the first timer is determined based on a time during which the feeder link is unavailable; Coverage availability information, wherein the coverage availability information is used to at least indicate a restoration time of the feeder link; A first identification set, wherein the first identification set includes at least one first identification; the first identification is used to indicate a terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; Quota information, wherein the quota information is used to indicate a storage space allocated to the data of the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier; Authorization information, wherein the authorization information is used to indicate that a terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that The method further comprises: Receive a first confirmation message sent by the second network element, wherein the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification to the UE context information.

6. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 5, characterized in that Before determining the first operation when the service link is unavailable, the method further includes one of the following: In the case where the feeder link becomes available, determining whether a service link between the satellite and the terminal is available; Based on receiving a second notification sent by a second network element, determining whether the service link is available; wherein the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data is being sent.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that The method further comprises: Sending a second confirmation message to the second network element, wherein the second confirmation message includes at least one of the following: Second indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; Fourth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable; fifth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is available; The failure reason indication is used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that The method further comprises: receiving downlink data sent by the second network element; In a case where the service link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the downlink data is stored.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that The method further comprises: When a non-access stratum (NAS) connection is established between the terminal and the second network element, security protection is performed on the downlink data.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that The method further comprises: A third notification is sent to the access network device, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that The first network element is a mobility management entity MME; and / or the second network element is a serving gateway S-GW or a packet data network element P-GW.

12. An information processing method, characterized in that: The method is executed by the second network element and includes: A first notification sent by a first network element is received, wherein the first notification is used to at least indicate that a feeder link between the satellite and the ground station becomes unavailable after a first time range.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that The first notification includes at least one of the following: first indication information, wherein the first indication information is used to indicate whether the feeder link is available; Second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to the at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; Timer information, wherein the timer information is used to indicate starting a first timer, and a timing duration of the first timer is determined based on a time during which the feeder link is unavailable; Coverage availability information, wherein the coverage availability information is used to at least indicate a restoration time of the feeder link; A first identification set, wherein the first identification set includes at least one first identification; the first identification is used to indicate a terminal authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; Quota information, wherein the quota information is used to indicate a storage space allocated to the data of the terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier; Authorization information, wherein the authorization information is used to indicate that a terminal corresponding to at least one first identifier is authorized to use at least one service corresponding to the data storage and forwarding function.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that The method further comprises: Send a first confirmation message to the first network element, where the first confirmation message is used to indicate that the second network element has received the first notification and / or updated the first notification to the UE context information.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that When it is determined that the feeder link is available, a second notification and / or downlink data is sent to the first network element, wherein the second notification is used to indicate that downlink data is being sent.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that The method further comprises at least one of the following: Based on expiration of a first timer, determining that the feeder link is available; Determining that the feeder link is available based on first indication information included in the received first notification; wherein the first indication information is used to indicate that the feeder link is available; The feeder link is determined to be available based on the coverage availability information and / or the ephemeris information indicating that the feeder link is available.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that The method further comprises: Receive a second confirmation message sent by the first network element, where the second confirmation message includes at least one of the following: The second indication information is used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to the at least one first identifier is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; third indication information, used to indicate that the terminal corresponding to at least one second identifier is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; Fourth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is unavailable; fifth indication information, used to indicate that the service link is available; The failure reason indication is used to indicate that the service link is unavailable and the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

18. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 17, characterized in that The method further comprises: When the feeder link is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the downlink data is stored.

19. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 18, characterized in that The first network element is a mobility management entity MME; and / or the second network element is a serving gateway S-GW or a packet data network element P-GW.

20. An information processing method, characterized in that: Executed by access network equipment, including: receiving a third notification sent by the first network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; In a case where a service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, the downlink data is stored.

21. A first network element, characterized in that: include: The first processing module is configured to determine a first operation; wherein, determining the first operation includes: determining that the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function, or determining that the terminal is not authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

22. A second network element, characterized in that: include: The second transceiver module is configured to receive a first notification sent by the first network element, wherein the first notification is at least used to indicate that a feeder link between the satellite and the ground station becomes unavailable within a first time range.

23. An access network device, characterized in that: include: A third transceiver module is configured to receive a third notification sent by the first network element, wherein the third notification is used to indicate whether the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function; The third processing module is configured to store the downlink data when the service link between the satellite and the terminal is unavailable and the terminal is authorized to use the data storage and forwarding function.

24. A communication device, characterized in that: include: one or more processors; The communication device is used to execute the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, or claims 12 to 19, or claim 20.

25. A communication system, characterized in that: include: A first network element, a second network element and / or an access network device; wherein the first network element is configured to implement the processing method described in any one of claims 1 to 11, the second network element is configured to implement the information processing method described in any one of claims 12 to 19, and / or the access network device is configured to implement the information processing method described in claim 20.

26. A storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that: When the instruction is executed on a communication device, the communication device is caused to execute the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, or claims 12 to 19, or claim 20.

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