Information transmission method, session establishment method, communication apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an information transmission method, a session establishment method, a communication apparatus, and a storage medium. The information transmission method comprises: transmitting related information of a user plane function (UPF) to a core network; receiving related information of a session management function (SMF) transmitted by the core network; and on the basis of the related information of the SMF, establishing a connection between the UPF and the SMF.

Description

Information transmission method, session establishment method, communication device and storage medium

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202410178322.9, filed on February 8, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to an information transmission method, a session establishment method, a communication device, and a storage medium. Background Art

[0003] In third-generation mobile communication technology (3G) and fourth-generation mobile communication technology (4G), the concept of micro base stations (MBs) was introduced to enhance base station coverage. Micro BTSs, also known as home base stations or small base stations, not only increase base station coverage but also provide specific services such as broadband access and IoT device connectivity.

[0004] The design of fifth-generation mobile communication technology (5G) takes into account higher frequency bands and greater bandwidth. Therefore, the coverage of 5G base stations is slightly smaller than that of 3G and 4G base stations, and 5G does not support micro base stations. However, with the continuous expansion of 5G networks and 5G applications, the possibility of reintroducing micro base stations to improve base station coverage is increasing. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In a first aspect, an information transmission method is provided, which is applied to a base station, wherein the base station integrates a user plane function (UPF). The information transmission method includes: sending relevant information of the user plane function (UPF) to a core network; receiving relevant information of a session management function (SMF) sent by the core network; and establishing a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF) based on the relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0006] In a second aspect, another information transmission method is provided, which is applied to a core network. The information transmission method includes: receiving user plane function (UPF) related information sent by a base station integrated with a user plane function (UPF); and sending session management function (SMF) related information to the base station.

[0007] In a third aspect, a session establishment method is provided, which is applied to an access management function (AMF). The session establishment method includes: obtaining configuration information of a user plane function (UPF) integrated with a base station; and sending a session establishment request message to a session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). The session establishment request message is used to request establishment of a (PDU) session for a terminal, and the session establishment request message includes information indicating that the user plane function (UPF) is integrated with the base station.

[0008] In a fourth aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising: a communication module and a processing module. The communication module is configured to send user plane function (UPF) related information to a core network. The communication module is further configured to receive session management function (SMF) related information sent by the core network. The processing module is configured to establish a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF) based on the session management function (SMF) related information.

[0009] In a fifth aspect, another communication device is provided, comprising: a receiving module and a sending module. The receiving module is configured to receive user plane function (UPF) related information sent by a base station integrated with the user plane function (UPF). The sending module is configured to send session management function (SMF) related information to the base station.

[0010] In a sixth aspect, another communication device is provided, comprising: a processing module and a communication module. The processing module is configured to obtain configuration information of a user plane function (UPF) integrated with a base station. The communication module is configured to send a session establishment request message to a session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). The session establishment request message is used to request establishment of a (PDU) session for a terminal, and the session establishment request message includes information indicating that the user plane function (UPF) is integrated with the base station.

[0011] In a seventh aspect, another communication device is provided, comprising a processor, wherein when executing a computer program, the processor implements the information transmission method of the first aspect, the information transmission method of the second aspect, or the session establishment method of the third aspect.

[0012] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, the computer-readable storage medium including computer instructions. When the computer instructions are executed, the information transmission method of the first aspect, the information transmission method of the second aspect, or the session establishment method of the third aspect are implemented.

[0013] In a ninth aspect, a computer program product comprising instructions is provided. When the computer program product is executed on a computer, the computer is caused to implement the information transmission method of the first aspect, the information transmission method of the second aspect, or the session establishment method of the third aspect. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the drawings described below are only drawings of some embodiments of the present disclosure. For ordinary technicians in this field, other drawings can also be obtained based on these drawings.

[0015] FIG1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a 4G system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a 5G system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG3 is an interactive diagram of an information transmission method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG4 is an interactive diagram of another information transmission method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG5 is an interactive schematic diagram of yet another information transmission method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG6 is an interactive schematic diagram of yet another information transmission method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG7 is an interactive schematic diagram of yet another information transmission method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG8 is an interactive diagram of a session establishment method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG9 is a schematic structural diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG10 is a schematic structural diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG11 is a schematic structural diagram of yet another communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG12 is a schematic structural diagram of yet another communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings in the embodiments of the present disclosure to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the embodiments described are only part of the embodiments of the present disclosure, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without making creative efforts are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0028] In the description of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, " / " means "or", for example, A / B can mean A or B. "And / or" in this article is only used to describe the association relationship of associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can mean: only A, only B, and A and B. In addition, "at least one" means one or more, and "a plurality" means two or more. Words such as "first" and "second" do not limit the quantity and execution order, and words such as "first" and "second" do not limit them to be necessarily different.

[0029] It should be noted that, in this disclosure, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to describe examples, illustrations, or explanations. Any embodiment or design described in this disclosure using words such as "exemplary" or "for example" should not be interpreted as being more preferred or advantageous than other embodiments or designs. Rather, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0030] In 3G and 4G, the concept of home base stations (Femtocells) was introduced to enhance base station coverage or provide specialized services for homes and small businesses. Femtocells, also known as micro or small base stations, addressed the limited range of 3G and 4G base stations. 5G, however, was designed primarily with higher frequency bands and greater bandwidth in mind. Therefore, the coverage of 5G base stations is slightly smaller than that of 3G and 4G base stations, and Femtocells are not supported. However, with the development of 5G networks, 5G applications are increasing. In Release 19, the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) introduced the concept of premises radio access stations (PRAS) within the personal internet of things (PIoT) and customer premises networks (CPN) projects. PRAS, also known as micro base stations, function similarly to micro base stations in 3G and 4G, primarily to improve base station coverage. By increasing the frequency of micro base stations, 5G's indoor coverage is expected to improve. Micro base stations offload some of the traffic routed to macro base stations, thereby providing better voice call quality and supporting mobility within the enterprise. The application of micro base stations will not only improve the user experience but also encourage enterprises to adopt 5G, which will benefit the development of 5G networks. This project will draw on the management of micro base stations in 4G and the management of non-public network base stations by closed access groups (CAGs) in 5G non-public networks (NPNs) to design a 5G micro base station access architecture.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, a schematic diagram of the architecture of a 4G system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In a 4G system, the user plane and the control plane are not separated, and the UPF and SMF can directly establish a connection. However, as shown in Figure 2, a schematic diagram of the architecture of a 5G system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In a 5G system, the user plane and the control plane are separated, resulting in the UPF and SMF being unable to directly establish a connection, causing the micro base station to be unable to function normally. Therefore, how to associate the UPF and SMF is an urgent problem to be solved.

[0032] Based on this, the embodiment of the present disclosure provides an information transmission method, which establishes a connection between UPF and SMF by using relevant information of UPF and relevant information of SMF, which can improve the success rate and efficiency of establishing the connection, thereby reducing communication delays and improving service quality.

[0033] The information transmission method and session establishment method provided by the present disclosure can be applied to the 5G system as shown in Figure 2, which shows a schematic diagram of the architecture of a 5G system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2, the 5G system includes terminal / user equipment (UE), radio access network (RAN), access and mobility management function (AMF), session management function (SMF), unified data management function (UDM), policy control function (PCF), user surface function (UPF), network repository function (NRF), data network (DN), and network slice selection function (NSSF).

[0035] In some embodiments, the UE can access the operator network, or the customer premises network, through a wireless base station.

[0036] In some embodiments, the base station in the RAN can be a macro base station or a micro base station.

[0037] In some embodiments, the AMF is also referred to as the AMF network element or the access and mobility management network element. The AMF is primarily responsible for UE mobility management, reachability management, connection management, and registration management. The AMF terminates the N2 interface to the RAN and the N1 NAS interface to the UE. For messages related to session management on the N1 and N2 interfaces, the AMF transparently transmits them to the SMF.

[0038] In some embodiments, SMF is also referred to as SMF network element or session management network element. SMF is used to manage sessions established by users, including establishing, modifying, and deleting sessions, as well as establishing a user plane on the network side.

[0039] In some embodiments, the UDM is also referred to as a UDM network element or a unified data management network element. The UDM is used to manage the UE's subscription data, application data, and the like, which can be stored in a unified data repository (UDR). In a network, the UDM and UDR are typically co-located. The subscription data includes access and mobility management subscription data and post-session management subscription data. The AMF and SMF can obtain this subscription data from the UDM, respectively.

[0040] In some embodiments, the PCF is also referred to as a PCF network element or a policy control network element. Depending on the policy, the PCF can be divided into UE-PCF, AM-PCF, and SM-PCF. The AMF and SMF interact with these PCFs to obtain UE policies, access management policies, and session management policies, respectively.

[0041] In some embodiments, the UPF is also referred to as a UPF network element or user plane network element. The SMF formulates rules for data detection, forwarding, and monitoring based on relevant information such as the session management contract and session management policy, and sends them to the UPF. The UPF, acting as a user plane data transmission node, executes the relevant rules formulated by the SMF. Before sending the UE's session management rules to the UPF, the SMF must first establish a node-level association connection with the UPF to exchange information such as the ports and addresses available to the UPF. Node-level association establishment can be initiated by either the SMF or the UPF.

[0042] In some embodiments, the NRF is also referred to as an NRF network element or a network storage network element. As a functional network element for storing and querying network function profiles (NF profiles), the NRF can store profiles for other NFs in the network. When other NFs need to use a certain NF but do not know its information, they can query the NRF for the function by entering key parameters.

[0043] It should be noted that Figure 2 is only an exemplary framework diagram. The number of devices included in Figure 2 and the names of each device are not limited, and in addition to the devices shown in Figure 2, the 5G system may also include other devices.

[0044] Figure 3 shows an interactive diagram of an information transmission method according to the present disclosure, which is applied to a base station and a core network. The base station integrates a user plane function (UPF), and the core network includes an AMF and a NRF. As shown in Figure 3, the information transmission method includes the following steps S101 to S103.

[0045] In S101, a base station sends information related to a user plane function (UPF) to a core network. Correspondingly, the core network receives information related to the user plane function (UPF) sent by a base station integrated with the user plane function (UPF).

[0046] In S102, the core network sends session management function (SMF) related information to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the session management function (SMF) related information sent by the core network.

[0047] In S103, the base station establishes a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF) based on the relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0048] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the above steps S101 to S103 may be implemented as the following steps S201 to S206 .

[0049] In S201, the base station sends the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF). Accordingly, the access management function (AMF) in the core network receives the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) sent by the base station integrated with the user plane function (UPF).

[0050] In some embodiments, the base station sends configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF), which can be implemented as: sending a first message to the access management function (AMF).

[0051] The first message is used to indicate that the base station requests to establish a connection with the access management function (AMF) after power-on, and the first message includes the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). The configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) includes at least one of the following: slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF), data network name (DNN) information supported by the user plane function (UPF), SMF service area supported by the user plane function (UPF), protocol data unit (PDU) session type supported by the user plane function (UPF), Internet protocol (IP) address range of the terminal supported by the user plane function (UPF), and tracking area identity (TAI) list supported by the user plane function (UPF).

[0052] Exemplarily, the slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF) includes single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI). The TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is independent of the TAI list supported by the base station, indicating that the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is the same as the TAI list supported by the base station. Alternatively, the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is not independent of the TAI list supported by the base station, indicating that the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is different from the TAI list supported by the base station. In addition, the configuration information of the UPF may also include whether the UPF supports redundant transmission and the type of user interface supported by the UPF.

[0053] In another exemplary embodiment, after the base station is powered on, it sends a first message to the AMF to initiate a next generation (NG) connection establishment request to the AMF. The first message carries the configuration information of the UPF.

[0054] In S202, the access management function (AMF) sends a third message to the network storage function (NRF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). Correspondingly, the network storage function (NRF) receives the third message sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0055] The third message is used to request discovery of a session management function (SMF).

[0056] In S203, the network storage function (NRF) sends a fourth message to the access management function (AMF). Correspondingly, the access management function (AMF) receives the fourth message sent by the network storage function (NRF).

[0057] The fourth message includes configuration information of a session management function (SMF).

[0058] Exemplarily, after receiving the configuration information of the UPF, the AMF initiates a discovery session management function (SMF) request to the NRF based on the parameters in the UPF configuration information and the slices and location information supported by the AMF. For example, the AMF uses the configuration information of the UPF or the parameters obtained by comparing the configuration information of the UPF with the slices and location information supported by the AMF as the input parameters of the query. For example, the input parameters can be query parameters such as the server identifier, TAI list, S-NSSAI, DNN, etc. of the SMF. Then, the NRF determines the configuration information of the SMF based on the query parameters input by the AMF, and sends a fourth message carrying the configuration information of the SMF to the AMF.

[0059] In S204, the access management function (AMF) sends the configuration information of the session management function (SMF) to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the configuration information of the session management function (SMF) sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0060] In some embodiments, the base station receives configuration information of the session management function (SMF) sent by the access management function (AMF), which can be implemented as: the base station receives a second message sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0061] The second message is used to respond to the first message, and the second message includes configuration information of a session management function (SMF).

[0062] Exemplarily, the base station receives the configuration information of the SFM and forwards it to the base station integrated UPF through the internal interface.

[0063] In S205, the base station sends a fifth message to the session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the session management function (SMF). Correspondingly, the session management function (SMF) receives the fifth message sent by the base station.

[0064] The fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF).

[0065] Exemplarily, the base station integrated UPF sends a fifth message to the SMF based on the configuration information of the SMF to request the establishment of a packet forwarding control protocol (PFCP) connection. The fifth message includes at least one of the following: a node identifier of the UPF, information about UE addresses that can be allocated by the UPF, a list of supported functions, and information about available address pools.

[0066] In S206, the session management function (SMF) sends a sixth message to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the sixth message sent by the session management function (SMF).

[0067] The sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

[0068] Exemplarily, after receiving the PFCP connection establishment request sent by the base station integrated UPF, the SMF stores the information of the base station integrated UPF and sends a response message, i.e., a sixth message, to the base station integrated UPF. The sixth message includes a response result. For example, the response result included in the sixth message is approval to establish the connection. In addition, the sixth message also includes a list of functions supported by the SMF. Alternatively, the response result included in the sixth message is rejection of connection establishment.

[0069] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the message interaction between the base station integrated UPF and the AMF is transmitted through the NG message on the N2 interface between the base station and the AMF. In order to simplify the processing process of the base station, the base station only transparently transmits the interactive information, only forwards the configuration information of the base station integrated UPF, and directly sends the UPF configuration information to the AMF. The UPF configuration information and other information will not be identified and processed.

[0070] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG5 , the above-mentioned S101 to S103 may also be implemented as the following S301 to S306 .

[0071] In S301, the base station sends information indicating the base station's integrated user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF). Correspondingly, the access management function (AMF) in the core network receives the information sent by the base station indicating the base station's integrated user plane function (UPF).

[0072] For example, after powering on, the base station initiates an NG connection establishment request to the AMF. The connection establishment request carries information indicating that the base station has integrated the UPF. In addition, the connection establishment request may also carry TAI information supported by the UPF. If no TAI information supported by the UPF is carried, it indicates that the TAI supported by the UPF is consistent with the TAI supported by the base station.

[0073] In S302, the access management function (AMF) sends the address information of the network storage function (NRF) to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the address information of the network storage function (NRF) sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0074] For example, after receiving information indicating that the base station integrates the UPF, the AMF determines the address information of the available NRF based on the TAI range supported by the UPF, and sends the address information of the NRF to the base station.

[0075] In S303, the base station sends a third message to the network storage function (NRF) based on the address information of the network storage function (NRF). Correspondingly, the network storage function (NRF) receives the third message sent by the base station.

[0076] The third message is used to request discovery of a session management function (SMF).

[0077] Exemplarily, the base station integrated UPF sends a third message to the NRF to request discovery of the SMF. The third message carries at least one of the following query parameters: the service area identifier of the SMF, the TAI list, the S-NSSAII, and the DNN.

[0078] In S304, the network storage function (NRF) sends a fourth message to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the fourth message sent by the network storage function (NRF).

[0079] Exemplarily, the NRF determines the configuration information of at least one SMF based on the query parameters carried in the third message, and carries the configuration information of at least one SMM in the fourth message and sends it to the base station integrated UPF.

[0080] The fourth message includes configuration information of the session management function (SFM).

[0081] In S305, the base station sends a fifth message to the session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the session management function (SMF). Correspondingly, the session management function (SMF) receives the fifth message sent by the base station.

[0082] The fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF).

[0083] Exemplarily, the base station integrated UPF sends a fifth message to the SMF based on the SFM configuration information carried in the fourth message to request the establishment of a packet forwarding control protocol (PFCP) connection. The fifth message includes at least one of the following: a node identifier of the UPF, UE address information that can be allocated by the UPF, a supported function list, and available address pool information.

[0084] In S306, the session management function (SMF) sends a sixth message to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the sixth message sent by the session management function (SMF).

[0085] The sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

[0086] Exemplarily, after receiving the PFCP connection establishment request sent by the base station integrated UPF, the SMF stores the information of the base station integrated UPF and sends a response message, i.e., a sixth message, to the base station integrated UPF. The sixth message includes a response result. For example, the response result included in the sixth message is approval to establish the connection. In addition, the sixth message also includes a list of functions supported by the SMF. Alternatively, the response result included in the sixth message is rejection of connection establishment.

[0087] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the message interaction between the base station integrated UPF and the AMF is transmitted through the NG message on the N2 interface between the base station and the AMF. In order to simplify the processing process of the base station, the base station only transparently transmits the interactive information, and does not identify and process the NFR-related information and other information returned by the AMF, and only forwards it to the base station integrated UPF through the internal interface.

[0088] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG6 , the above-mentioned S101 to S103 may also be implemented as the following S401 to S404 .

[0089] In S401, the base station sends the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF). Correspondingly, the access management function (AMF) receives the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) sent by the base station.

[0090] The configuration information of UPF includes at least one of the following: slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF), data network name (DNN) information supported by the user plane function (UPF), SMF service area supported by the user plane function (UPF), PDU session type supported by the user plane function (UPF), Internet protocol (IP) address range of the terminal supported by the user plane function (UPF), and tracking area identity (TAI) list supported by the user plane function (UPF).

[0091] Exemplarily, the slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF) includes single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI). The TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is independent of the TAI list supported by the base station, indicating that the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is the same as the TAI list supported by the base station. Alternatively, the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is not independent of the TAI list supported by the base station, indicating that the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is different from the TAI list supported by the base station. In addition, the configuration information of the UPF may also include whether the UPF supports redundant transmission and the type of user interface supported by the UPF.

[0092] As another example, to support SMF to query UPF, the configuration information of UPF may also include the address of UPF that can be addressed by other NFs or the NF identification information of UPF.

[0093] In S402, the access management function (AMF) sends a seventh message to the network storage function (NRF). Correspondingly, the network storage function (NRF) receives the seventh message sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0094] The seventh message is used to request registration of a user plane function (UPF), and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function (UPF).

[0095] It should be noted that in order to ensure the security of registration, the network can be configured to allow the AMF to register the configuration information of other NFs with the NRF, so as to pass the security authentication and not consider this registration as a network attack. For example, the AMF registers the configuration information of the UPF with the NRF.

[0096] In this way, by allowing AMF to register the configuration information of other NFs with NRF, the network can verify the legitimacy of the registration request through security authentication and prevent potential network attacks. In addition, allowing AMF to register the configuration information of UPF with NRF can simplify the registration process and improve the efficiency of registration.

[0097] It should be understood that if the SMF has previously registered with the network and subscribed to the UPF online notification from the NRF, the NRF can notify the SMF that has subscribed to the UPF online based on the configuration information of the registered UPF, and send the UPF list and UPF configuration information to the SMF.

[0098] In S403, the session management function (SMF) sends a fifth message to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the fifth message sent by the session management function (SMF).

[0099] The fifth message is used to establish a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF). The fifth message includes relevant information about the session management function (SMF). The relevant information about the session management function (SMF) includes: the identifier of the session management function (SMF) and a list of supported functions.

[0100] Exemplarily, after the SMF receives the configuration information of the UPF, it sends a fifth message to the UPF based on the configuration information of the UPF to initiate a PFCP connection establishment request.

[0101] In S404, the base station sends a sixth message to the session management function (SMF) based on the relevant information of the session management function (SMF). Correspondingly, the session management function (SMF) receives the sixth message sent by the base station.

[0102] The sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

[0103] Exemplarily, after receiving the relevant information of the SMF carried in the fifth message, the base station integrated UPF stores the relevant information of the SMF and sends a sixth message to the SMF in response to the fifth message. The sixth message includes at least one of the following: the node identifier of the UPF, the address information of the terminal supported by the UPF, the list of functions supported by the UPF, and the address pool information available to the UPF.

[0104] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the message interaction between the base station integrated UPF and AMF is transmitted through the NG message on the N2 interface between the base station and the AMF. In order to simplify the processing process of the base station, the base station only transparently transmits the interactive information and only forwards the configuration information of the UPF. It does not identify and process the configuration information of the UPF and other information, and only receives and forwards it to the AMF through the internal interface.

[0105] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7 , the above-mentioned S101 to S103 may also be implemented as the following S501 to S506 .

[0106] In S501, the base station sends information for instructing the base station to integrate the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF). Correspondingly, the access management function (AMF) in the core network receives the information sent by the base station for instructing the base station to integrate the user plane function (UPF).

[0107] For example, after powering on, the base station initiates an NG connection establishment request to the AMF. The connection establishment request carries information indicating that the base station has integrated the UPF. In addition, the connection establishment request may also carry TAI information supported by the UPF. If no TAI information supported by the UPF is carried, it indicates that the TAI supported by the UPF is consistent with the TAI supported by the base station.

[0108] In S502, the access management function (AMF) sends the address information of the network storage function (NRF) to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station receives the address information of the network storage function (NRF) sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0109] Exemplarily, the base station determines address information of an available NRF based on a TAI range in information indicating a base station integrated user plane function (UPF), and sends the address information of the NRF to the base station.

[0110] In S503, the base station sends a seventh message to the network storage function (NRF) based on the address information of the network storage function (NRF). Correspondingly, the network storage function (NRF) receives the seventh message sent by the base station.

[0111] The seventh message is used to request registration of the user plane function (UPF), and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). The configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) includes at least one of the following: slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF), data network name (DNN) information supported by the user plane function (UPF), SMF service area supported by the user plane function (UPF), protocol data unit (PDU) session type supported by the user plane function (UPF), Internet protocol (IP) address range of the terminal supported by the user plane function (UPF), and tracking area identity (TAI) list supported by the user plane function (UPF).

[0112] Exemplarily, the slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF) includes single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI). The TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is independent of the TAI list supported by the base station, indicating that the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is the same as the TAI list supported by the base station. Alternatively, the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is not independent of the TAI list supported by the base station, indicating that the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is different from the TAI list supported by the base station. In addition, the configuration information of the UPF may also include whether the UPF supports redundant transmission and the type of user interface supported by the UPF.

[0113] In S504, the network storage function (NRF) registers the user plane function (UPF) based on the seventh message, and sends configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the session management function (SMF).

[0114] It should be noted that the SMF has been registered with the network and subscribed to the corresponding UPF's online notification. When the NRF registers based on the UPF's configuration information, it will notify the SMF and send the UPF's configuration information and UPF list to the SMF.

[0115] In S505, the session management function (SMF) sends a fifth message to the user plane function (UPF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). Correspondingly, the base station receives the fifth message sent by the session management function (SMF).

[0116] The fifth message is used to request the establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF). The fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function (SMF). The relevant information of the session management function (SMF) includes: the identifier of the session management function (SMF) and a list of supported functions.

[0117] Exemplarily, after the SMF receives the configuration information of the UPF, it sends a fifth message to the UPF based on the configuration information of the UPF to initiate a PFCP connection establishment request.

[0118] In S506, the base station sends a sixth message to the session management function (SMF) based on the relevant information of the session management function (SMF). Correspondingly, the session management function (SMF) receives the sixth message sent by the base station.

[0119] The sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

[0120] Exemplarily, after receiving the relevant information of the SMF carried in the fifth message, the base station integrated UPF stores the relevant information of the SMF and sends a sixth message to the SMF in response to the fifth message. The sixth message includes at least one of the following: the node identifier of the UPF, the address information of the terminal supported by the UPF, the list of functions supported by the UPF, and the address pool information available to the UPF.

[0121] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the message interaction between the base station integrated UPF and the AMF is transmitted through the NG message on the N2 interface between the base station and the AMF. In order to simplify the processing process of the base station, the base station only transparently transmits the interactive information, and does not identify and process the NFR-related information and other information returned by the AMF, and only forwards it to the base station integrated UPF through the internal interface.

[0122] In some embodiments, the base station sends the updated configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF) based on the update of the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF).

[0123] For example, when the configuration information of the base station integrated UPF is updated, the base station integrated UPF can send the updated configuration information to the base station through the internal interface. The base station sends a configuration update request to the AMF and sends the updated UPF configuration information to the AMF. The AMF determines whether it is necessary to re-execute the SMF query based on the local matching information.

[0124] In some embodiments, the base station is updated based on the configuration information of the session management function (SMF), and receives the updated configuration information of the session management function (SMF) sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0125] In another example, AMF can subscribe to the update of the SMF configuration file through the network function status (NF Statue). In this way, after the configuration information of SMF is updated, AMF can receive the update notification of SMF, thereby triggering AMF to initiate the update process of NG configuration, so that AMF can notify the base station integrated UPF that SMF has been updated and send the updated SMF configuration information to the base station.

[0126] In the above four embodiments, if there is only one base station management unit in the network, the query subscription relationship between UPF and SMF may exist in the NF of this separate device, then the NRF in all the above processes can be replaced with this network element to complete the relevant functions.

[0127] Figure 8 shows an interactive diagram of a session establishment method according to the present disclosure, which is applied to an access management function (AMF). As shown in Figure 8, the session establishment method includes the following S701 to S706.

[0128] In S701, the terminal sends a PDU session establishment request to the Access Management Function (AMF).

[0129] The PDU session establishment request includes the DNN and S-NSSAI of the PDU session to be established.

[0130] In S702, configuration information of a user plane function (UPF) integrated in the base station is obtained.

[0131] In some embodiments, an access management function (AMF) receives a connection establishment request message sent by a base station.

[0132] The connection establishment request message includes configuration information of the user plane function (UPF).

[0133] For example, in the above S201, the base station sends the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF). Accordingly, the access management function (AMF) in the core network receives the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) sent by the base station integrated with the user plane function (UPF).

[0134] As another example, in the above S401, the base station sends the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF). Correspondingly, the access management function (AMF) receives the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) sent by the base station.

[0135] In some other embodiments, the access management function (AMF) receives the N2 message based on a single UE sent by the base station.

[0136] The N2 message includes configuration information of the User Plane Function (UPF).

[0137] For example, since the base station does not know the type of non-access stratum (NAS) message initiated by the terminal, it is necessary to send the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF) in each message that may transmit a PDU session establishment request. The N2 message includes any of the following: an initial terminal message and an uplink direct transmission message.

[0138] In S703, the access management function (AMF) sends a session establishment request message to the session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). Correspondingly, the session management function (SMF) receives the session establishment request message sent by the AMF.

[0139] The session establishment request message is used to request establishment of a PDU session of the terminal, and the session establishment request message includes information for indicating that a user plane function (UPF) is integrated in the base station.

[0140] It should be noted that if the information of the user plane function (UPF) integrated into the base station indicated in the session establishment request message is the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF), the AMF sends a session establishment request message to the session management function (SMF).

[0141] Exemplarily, the session establishment request information includes the DNN and S-NSSAI requested by the terminal. The AMF selects appropriate configuration information for matching based on the DNN and S-NSSAI requested by the terminal. If the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) can support the corresponding DNN and S-NSSAI in the session establishment request information, the AMF sends a session establishment request message to the session management function (SMF).

[0142] When AMF obtains the configuration information of UPF, the session establishment request message sent by AMF may also carry the configuration information of UPF.

[0143] In S704, the session management function (SMF) sends a subscription data request to the unified data management (UDM). Correspondingly, the unified data management (UDM) sends the subscription data to the session management function (SMF).

[0144] Exemplarily, SMF obtains the contract data in UDM and establishes a session management policy connection establishment / update.

[0145] In S705, the session management function (SMF) sends a PFCP Session Establishment Request to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station sends a PFCP Session Establishment Response to the session management function (SMF).

[0146] In S706, the session management function (SMF) sends a PFCP session establishment request (PFCP Session Establishment Request) to the base station. Correspondingly, the base station sends a PFCP session establishment response to the session management function (SMF).

[0147] In some embodiments, the access management function (AMF) transparently transmits signaling between the session management function (SMF) and the user plane function (UPF).

[0148] Exemplarily, the SMF determines whether the base station integrated UPF can serve as a PDU session anchor (PSA). If the base station integrated UPF can serve as a PDU session anchor, the above-mentioned PFCP association establishment related messages, PFCP session establishment related messages, PFCP report messages, as well as PFCP association updates and PFCP association releases can all be interacted through the N2 message transfer (message transfer) between the base station and the SMF. The N4 message is carried in the N2 message transfer message as a transparent information element (IE). It interacts between the base station and the SMF through the AMF. The base station only transparently transmits the N4 message and does not identify or process it. Since the PFCP association needs to be established before the PFCP session is established. If the PFCP association has been established before, S706 can be skipped.

[0149] If the N2 connection between the micro base station and the AMF is released because the terminal enters the idle state, the SMF and UPF should avoid initiating PFCP messages at this time to avoid unnecessary N2 connection establishment.

[0150] In this way, AMF instructs SMF to integrate the current base station UPF through the session establishment request message, thereby improving the efficiency of establishing sessions, reducing communication delays, and improving user experience.

[0151] It is understandable that, in order to implement the above functions, the communication device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. It should be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that, in conjunction with the algorithmic steps of the various examples described in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the present disclosure can be implemented in the form of hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in the form of hardware or computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional and technical personnel can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered to be beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

[0152] The embodiments of the present disclosure can divide the functional modules of the communication device according to the above-mentioned method embodiments. For example, each functional module can be divided corresponding to each function, or two or more functions can be integrated into one functional module. The above-mentioned integrated modules can be implemented in the form of hardware or software. It should be noted that the division of modules in the embodiments of the present disclosure is schematic and is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods. The following is an example of dividing each functional module corresponding to each function.

[0153] FIG9 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which can execute the information transmission method provided by the above method embodiment. As shown in FIG9 , the communication device 90 includes a communication module 901 and a processing module 902 .

[0154] The communication module 901 is used to send relevant information of the user plane function (UPF) to the core network.

[0155] The communication module 901 is further configured to receive session management function (SMF) related information sent by the core network.

[0156] The processing module 902 is configured to establish a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF) based on relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0157] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is used, for example, to: send configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF); and receive configuration information of the session management function (SMF) sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0158] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is used, for example, to: send a first message to the access management function (AMF), the first message being used to indicate that the base station requests to establish a connection with the access management function (AMF) after power-on, and the first message including configuration information of the user plane function (UPF); receive a second message sent by the access management function (AMF), the second message being used to respond to the first message, and the second message including configuration information of the session management function (SMF).

[0159] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is used, for example, to: send information indicating the base station integrated user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF); receive address information of the network storage function (NRF) sent by the access management function (AMF); based on the address information of the network storage function (NRF), send a third message to the network storage function (NRF), the third message being used to request discovery of the session management function (SMF); receive a fourth message sent by the network storage function (NRF), the fourth message including configuration information of the session management function (SFM).

[0160] In some embodiments, the processing module 902 is used, for example, to: send a fifth message to the session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the session management function (SMF), where the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF); and receive a sixth message sent by the session management function (SMF), where the sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

[0161] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is used, for example, to: send configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF); receive a fifth message sent by the session management function (SMF), the fifth message being used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF), and the fifth message including relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0162] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is used, for example, to: send information indicating the base station integrated user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF); receive address information of the network storage function (NRF) sent by the access management network function; based on the address information of the network storage function (NRF), send a seventh message to the network storage function (NRF), the seventh message is used to request registration of the user plane function (UPF), and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function (UPF); receive a fifth message sent by the session management function (SMF), the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF), and the fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0163] In some embodiments, the information related to the session management function (SMF) includes: an identifier of the session management function (SMF) and a list of supported functions.

[0164] In some embodiments, the processing module 902 is, for example, configured to: send a sixth message to the session management function (SMF) based on relevant information of the session management function (SMF), where the sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

[0165] In some embodiments, the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) includes at least one of the following: slice information supported by the user plane function (UPF), DNN information supported by the user plane function (UPF), SMF service area supported by the user plane function (UPF), PDU session type supported by the user plane function (UPF), IP address range of terminals supported by the user plane function (UPF), and TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF).

[0166] In some embodiments, the TAI list supported by the user plane function (UPF) is independent of the TAI list supported by the base station.

[0167] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is further used to: based on the update of the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF), send the updated configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the access management function (AMF).

[0168] In some embodiments, the communication module 901 is further used to: based on the update of the configuration information of the session management function (SMF), receive the updated configuration information of the session management function (SMF) sent by the access management function (AMF).

[0169] FIG10 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which can execute the information transmission method provided by the above method embodiment. As shown in FIG10 , the communication device 100 includes a receiving module 1001 and a sending module 1002 .

[0170] The receiving module 1001 is configured to receive user plane function (UPF) related information sent by a base station integrated with the user plane function (UPF).

[0171] The sending module 1002 is configured to send session management function (SMF) related information to the base station.

[0172] In some embodiments, the receiving module 1001 is used, for example, for: the access management function (AMF) in the core network receives the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) sent by the base station integrating the user plane function (UPF).

[0173] In some embodiments, the sending module 1002 is used, for example, for: the access management function (AMF) sends configuration information of the session management function (SMF) to the base station.

[0174] In some embodiments, the sending module 1002 is further configured to: the access management function (AMF) sends a third message to the network storage function (NRF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF), where the third message is used to request discovery of the session management function (SMF). The receiving module 1001 is further configured to: the access management function (AMF) receives a fourth message sent by the network storage function (NRF), where the fourth message includes the configuration information of the session management function (SMF).

[0175] In some embodiments, the sending module 1002 is configured, for example, to: a session management function (SMF) sends a fifth message to a base station. The fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between a user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF), and the fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0176] In some embodiments, the sending module 1002 is further configured to: the access management function (AMF) sends a seventh message to the network storage function (NRF). The seventh message is used to request registration with the user plane function (UPF), and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function (UPF).

[0177] In some embodiments, the receiving module 1001 is used, for example, for: an access management function (AMF) in a core network receives information sent by a base station to indicate a base station integrated user plane function (UPF).

[0178] In some embodiments, the sending module 1002 is further used to: the access management function (AMF) sends the address information of the network storage function (NRF) to the base station.

[0179] In some embodiments, the sending module 1002 is used, for example, for: the network storage function (NRF) receives a third message sent by the base station, the third message is used to request discovery of the session management function (SMF); the network storage function (NRF) sends a fourth message to the base station, the fourth message includes relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0180] In some embodiments, the receiving module 1001 is further configured to: receive, by the network storage function (NRF), a seventh message sent by the base station, the seventh message being used to request registration with the user plane function (UPF), and including configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). The sending module 1002 is further configured to: register, by the network storage function (NRF) based on the seventh message, the user plane function (UPF), and send the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF) to the session management function (SMF); and send, by the session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF), a fifth message to the user plane function (UPF). The fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function (UPF) and the session management function (SMF), and includes relevant information of the session management function (SMF).

[0181] FIG11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, which can execute the information transmission method provided by the above method embodiment. As shown in FIG11 , the communication device 110 includes a processing module 1101 and a communication module 1102 .

[0182] The processing module 1101 is configured to obtain configuration information of a user plane function (UPF) integrated in a base station.

[0183] The communication module 1102 is configured to send a session establishment request message to the session management function (SMF) based on the configuration information of the user plane function (UPF). The session establishment request message is used to request the establishment of a PDU session of the terminal, and the session establishment request message includes information indicating that the user plane function (UPF) is integrated with the base station.

[0184] In some embodiments, the processing module 1101 is configured to, for example, receive a connection establishment request message sent by a base station. The connection establishment request message is used to request establishment of a connection between the base station and an access management function (AMF), and the connection establishment request message includes configuration information of a user plane function (UPF).

[0185] In some embodiments, the processing module 1101 is configured to, for example, receive an N2 message based on a single UE sent by a base station, wherein the N2 message includes configuration information of a user plane function (UPF).

[0186] In some embodiments, the access management function (AMF) transparently transmits signaling between the session management function (SMF) and the user plane function (UPF).

[0187] In the case of implementing the functions of the above-mentioned integrated modules in hardware, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide another structure of the communication device involved in the above-mentioned embodiments. As shown in Figure 12, the communication device 120 includes: a processor 1202 and a bus 1204. In some embodiments, the communication device may also include a memory 1201. In some embodiments, the communication device 120 may also include a communication interface 1203.

[0188] The processor 1202 may implement or execute the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The processor 1202 may be a central processing unit, a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit, a field programmable gate array, or other programmable logic device, a transistor logic device, a hardware component, or any combination thereof, and may implement or execute the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, and circuits described in conjunction with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The processor 1202 may also be a combination that implements computing functions, such as a combination of one or more microprocessors, a combination of a DSP (digital signal processor) and a microprocessor, and the like.

[0189] The communication interface 1203 is used to connect to other devices via a communication network, such as Ethernet, wireless access network, or wireless local area network (WLAN).

[0190] The memory 1201 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device that can store static information and instructions, a random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device that can store information and instructions, or an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a disk storage medium or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and can be accessed by a computer, but is not limited thereto.

[0191] As an implementation, the memory 1201 may exist independently of the processor 1202. The memory 1201 may be connected to the processor 1202 via a bus 1204 and used to store instructions or program codes. When the processor 1202 calls and executes the instructions or program codes stored in the memory 1201, it can implement the information transmission method provided in the embodiment of the present disclosure, or implement the session establishment method provided in the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0192] In another implementation, the memory 1201 may also be integrated with the processor 1202 .

[0193] Bus 1204 can be an Extended Industry Standard Architecture (EISA) bus, etc. Bus 1204 can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. For ease of illustration, FIG12 shows only one thick line, but this does not mean that there is only one bus or only one type of bus.

[0194] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium) having computer program instructions stored therein. When the computer program instructions are executed on a computer, the computer executes the information transmission method described in any of the above embodiments, or the session establishment method described in any of the above embodiments.

[0195] Exemplarily, the above-mentioned computer-readable storage media may include, but are not limited to: magnetic storage devices (e.g., hard disks, floppy disks, or magnetic tapes), optical disks (e.g., compact disks (CDs), digital versatile disks (DVDs), etc.), smart cards, and flash memory devices (e.g., erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROMs), cards, sticks, or key drives, etc.). The various computer-readable storage media described in the present disclosure may represent one or more devices and / or other machine-readable storage media for storing information. The term "machine-readable storage medium" may include, but is not limited to, wireless channels and various other media capable of storing, containing, and / or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0196] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a computer program product containing instructions. When the computer program product is run on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the information transmission method of any of the above embodiments, or execute the session establishment method of any of the above embodiments.

[0197] In the embodiment of the present disclosure, by using relevant information of UPF and relevant information of SMF to establish a connection between UPF and SMF, the success rate and efficiency of establishing the connection can be improved, thereby reducing communication delays and improving service quality.

[0198] The above is only a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, but the scope of protection of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Any changes or replacements within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure should be included in the scope of protection of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present disclosure should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. An information transmission method, applied to a base station, wherein: The base station integrates a user plane function UPF, and the method includes: Send relevant information of the user plane function UPF to the core network; Receiving relevant information of the session management function SMF sent by the core network; Based on the relevant information of the session management function SMF, a connection is established between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein The sending relevant information of the user plane function UPF to the core network includes: Send the configuration information of the user plane function UPF to the access management function AMF, The receiving relevant information of the session management function SMF sent by the core network includes: Receive the configuration information of the session management function SMF sent by the access management function AMF.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: The sending the configuration information of the user plane function UPF to the access management function AMF includes: Sending a first message to the access management function AMF, where the first message is used to indicate that the base station requests to establish a connection with the access management function AMF after power-on, and the first message includes configuration information of the user plane function UPF, The receiving the configuration information of the session management function SMF sent by the access management function AMF includes: Receive a second message sent by the access management function AMF, where the second message is used to respond to the first message, and the second message includes configuration information of the session management function SMF.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein The sending relevant information of the user plane function UPF to the core network includes: Sending information for instructing the base station to integrate the user plane function UPF to the access management function AMF, The receiving relevant information of the session management function SMF sent by the core network includes: Receive the address information of the network storage function NRF sent by the access management function AMF; Sending a third message to the network storage function NRF based on the address information of the network storage function NRF, where the third message is used to request discovery of the session management function SMF; A fourth message sent by the network storage function NRF is received, where the fourth message includes configuration information of the session management function SFM.

5. The method according to claim 2 or 4, wherein: The establishing a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF based on the relevant information of the session management function SMF includes: Based on the configuration information of the session management function SMF, send a fifth message to the session management function SMF, where the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF; Receive a sixth message sent by the session management function SMF, where the sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein The sending relevant information of the user plane function UPF to the core network includes: Send the configuration information of the user plane function UPF to the access management function AMF, The receiving relevant information of the session management function SMF sent by the core network includes: Receive a fifth message sent by the session management function SMF, where the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF, and the fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function SMF.

7. The method according to claim 1, wherein The sending relevant information of the user plane function UPF to the core network includes: Sending information for instructing the base station to integrate the user plane function UPF to the access management function AMF, The receiving relevant information of the session management function SMF sent by the core network includes: Receiving address information of the network storage function NRF sent by the access management network function; Based on the address information of the network storage function NRF, send a seventh message to the network storage function NRF, where the seventh message is used to request registration of the user plane function UPF, and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function UPF; Receive a fifth message sent by the session management function SMF, where the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF, and the fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function SMF.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The relevant information of the session management function SMF includes: the identifier of the session management function SMF and a list of supported functions.

9. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The establishing a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF based on the relevant information of the session management function SMF includes: Based on the relevant information of the session management function SMF, a sixth message is sent to the session management function SMF, where the sixth message is a response message to the fifth message.

10. The method according to claim 2 or 6, wherein: The configuration information of the user plane function UPF includes at least one of the following: slice information supported by the user plane function UPF, data network name DNN information supported by the user plane function UPF, SMF service area supported by the user plane function UPF, protocol data unit PDU session type supported by the user plane function UPF, Internet Protocol IP address range of the terminal supported by the user plane function UPF, and tracking area identifier TAI list supported by the user plane function UPF.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The TAI list supported by the user plane function UPF is independent of the TAI list supported by the base station.

12. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Based on the update of the configuration information of the user plane function UPF, the updated configuration information of the user plane function UPF is sent to the access management function AMF.

13. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Based on the update of the configuration information of the session management function SMF, the updated configuration information of the session management function SMF sent by the access management function AMF is received.

14. An information transmission method, applied to a core network, comprising: Receiving relevant information of the user plane function UPF sent by the base station integrated with the user plane function UPF; Sending session management function SMF related information to the base station.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein The receiving relevant information of the user plane function UPF sent by the base station integrating the user plane function UPF includes: The access management function AMF in the core network receives the configuration information of the user plane function UPF sent by the base station that integrates the user plane function UPF.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein The sending relevant information of the session management function SMF to the base station includes: The access management function AMF sends the configuration information of the session management function SMF to the base station.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: The access management function AMF sends a third message to the network storage function NRF based on the configuration information of the user plane function UPF, where the third message is used to request discovery of the session management function SMF; The access management function AMF receives a fourth message sent by the network storage function NRF, where the fourth message includes configuration information of the session management function SMF.

18. The method according to claim 14, wherein The sending relevant information of the session management function SMF to the base station includes: The session management function SMF sends a fifth message to the base station, where the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF, and the fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function SMF.

19. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: The access management function AMF sends a seventh message to the network storage function NRF, where the seventh message is used to request registration of the user plane function UPF, and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function UPF.

20. The method according to claim 14, wherein The receiving relevant information of the user plane function UPF sent by the base station integrating the user plane function UPF includes: The access management function AMF in the core network receives information sent by the base station to instruct the base station to integrate the user plane function UPF.

21. The method according to claim 20, further comprising: The access management function AMF sends the address information of the network storage function NRF to the base station.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein The sending relevant information of the session management function SMF to the base station includes: The network storage function NRF receives a third message sent by the base station, where the third message is used to request discovery of the session management function SMF; The network storage function NRF sends a fourth message to the base station, where the fourth message includes relevant information of the session management function SMF.

23. The method of claim 21, further comprising: The network storage function NRF receives a seventh message sent by the base station, where the seventh message is used to request registration of the user plane function UPF, and the seventh message includes configuration information of the user plane function UPF; The network storage function NRF registers the user plane function UPF based on the seven messages, and sends the configuration information of the user plane function UPF to the session management function SMF; The session management function SMF sends a fifth message to the user plane function UPF based on the configuration information of the user plane function UPF, where the fifth message is used to request establishment of a connection between the user plane function UPF and the session management function SMF, and the fifth message includes relevant information of the session management function SMF.

24. A session establishment method, applied to an access management function (AMF), comprising: Obtain the configuration information of the user plane function UPF integrated in the base station; Based on the configuration information of the user plane function UPF, a session establishment request message is sent to the session management function SMF, where the session establishment request message is used to request the establishment of a protocol data unit PDU session of the terminal, and the session establishment request message includes information indicating that the user plane function UPF is integrated into the base station.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein The obtaining configuration information of the user plane function UPF integrated in the base station includes: Receive a connection establishment request message sent by the base station, where the connection establishment request message is used to request establishment of a connection between the base station and the access management function AMF, and the connection establishment request message includes configuration information of the user plane function UPF.

26. The method according to claim 24, wherein The obtaining configuration information of the user plane function UPF integrated in the base station includes: An N2 message based on a single user equipment UE sent by the base station is received, where the N2 message includes configuration information of the user plane function UPF.

27. The method according to claim 24, wherein The access management function AMF transparently transmits signaling between the session management function SMF and the user plane function UPF.

28. A communication device comprising a processor, wherein: When the processor executes the computer program, it implements the information transmission method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, or implements the information transmission method according to any one of claims 14 to 23, or implements the session establishment method according to any one of claims 24 to 27.

29. A computer-readable storage medium comprising computer instructions; wherein: When the computer instructions are executed, the information transmission method according to any one of claims 1 to 13 is implemented, or the information transmission method according to any one of claims 14 to 23 is implemented, or the session establishment method according to any one of claims 24 to 27 is implemented.

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