Network handover method and communication device

Abstract

A network handover method and a communication device. The method comprises: receiving a measurement report sent by a terminal device; inputting the measurement report into a DRL model, so that the DRL model outputs handover instruction information; and in response to the handover instruction information instructing the terminal device to perform network handover, sending handover request information to a first network element, wherein the handover request information is used for requesting the handover of the terminal device from a first access network device to a second access network device. In the present disclosure, a DRL model outputs handover instruction information of a terminal device on the basis of a measurement report reported by the terminal device, and a deep reinforcement learning mode is applied to network handover decision-making, such that cell handover decisions can be more aligned with network states, thereby ensuring the service continuity of the terminal device.

Description

Network switching method and communication device TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the technical field of communication, and particularly relates to a network switching method and a communication device. BACKGROUND

[0002] To ensure service continuity of a terminal device, after the terminal device enters an area with poor network quality, the terminal device can be switched between cells covered by a terrestrial cellular network, switched between cells covered by a non-terrestrial network (NTN), or switched between a cell covered by the terrestrial cellular network and a cell covered by the NTN.

[0003] SUMMARY

[0004] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network switching method and a communication device.

[0005] According to a first aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a network switching method is provided, applicable to a first access network device, and includes:

[0006] receiving a measurement report sent by a terminal device;

[0007] inputting the measurement report into a DRL model, and outputting switching indication information from the DRL model;

[0008] in response to the switching indication information indicating that the terminal device performs network switching, sending switching request information to a first network element, the switching request information being used to request switching of the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

[0009] According to a second aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a network switching method is provided, applicable to a first network element, and includes:

[0010] receiving switching request information sent by a first access network device, the switching request information being used to request switching of a terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device;

[0011] sending the switching request information to the second access network device.

[0012] According to a third aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a network switching method is provided, applicable to a second access network device, and includes:

[0013] receiving switching request information sent by a first network element, the switching request information being used to request switching of a terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0014] According to a fourth aspect of embodiments of the present disclosure, a network switching method is provided, applicable to a second network element, and includes:

[0015] receive the user plane update request information sent by the first network element, and perform a path switching operation;

[0016] send response information of the update request information to the first network element.

[0017] According to a fifth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a network switching method is provided, applicable to a terminal device, comprising:

[0018] receive measurement control information sent by the first access network device;

[0019] send a measurement report to the first access network device.

[0020] According to a sixth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a first access network device is provided, comprising:

[0021] a transceiver, configured to receive a measurement report sent by a terminal device, and send switching request information to a first network element when a switching instruction information indicates to perform network switching, the switching request information being used to request to switch the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device;

[0022] a processing module, configured to input the measurement report into a DRL model, and output the switching instruction information from the DRL model.

[0023] According to a seventh aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a first network element is provided, comprising:

[0024] a transceiver, configured to receive switching request information sent by the first access network device, the switching request information being used to request to switch the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device; and send the switching request information to the second access network device.

[0025] According to an eighth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a second access network device is provided, comprising:

[0026] a transceiver, configured to receive switching request information sent by the first network element, the switching request information being used to request to switch the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0027] According to a ninth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a second network element is provided, comprising:

[0028] a transceiver, configured to receive user plane update request information sent by the first network element, and perform a path switching operation; and send response information of the update request information to the first network element.

[0029] According to a tenth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a terminal device is provided, comprising:

[0030] a transceiver, configured to receive measurement control information sent by the first access network device; and send a measurement report to the first access network device.

[0031] According to an eleventh aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising:

[0032] one or more processors;

[0033] The processor is configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device to perform the network switching method according to any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect.

[0034] According to a twelfth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided, and the storage medium stores instructions, and the instructions are configured to cause a communication device to perform the network switching method according to any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect when the instructions are run on the communication device.

[0035] According to a thirteenth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided, and the computer program product is configured to cause a communication device to perform the network switching method according to any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect when the computer program product is run on the communication device.

[0036] According to a fourteenth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a chip or chip system is provided. The chip or chip system comprises processing circuitry configured to perform the network switching method according to any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect.

[0037] In the above embodiments, the terminal device reports a measurement report, and a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) model outputs switching indication information of the terminal device based on the measurement report, and the deep reinforcement learning model is used in the decision of cell switching, which can make the decision of cell switching more consistent with the network state, thereby ensuring the service continuity of the terminal device.

[0038] It can be understood that the communication device, the storage medium, the program product, and the chip or chip system are all used to perform the method provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved are as described in the corresponding method, which will not be described here. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0039] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent and more readily appreciated from the following description of the embodiments, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0040] FIGS. 1A-1C are one exemplary schematic diagram of an architecture of a communication system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 2A is an exemplary interaction schematic diagram of a network switching processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIGS. 3A-3B are flow schematic diagrams of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIGS. 4A-4B are schematic diagrams of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIGS. 5A-5B are schematic diagrams of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIGS. 6A-6B are schematic diagrams of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIGS. 7A-7B are schematic diagrams of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIGS. 8A-8C are training schematic diagrams of a DRL model according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 10A is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 10B is a structural schematic diagram of a chip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0051] The embodiments of the present disclosure propose a network switching method and a communication device.

[0052] In a first aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure propose a network switching method, applicable to a first access network device, and the method comprises:

[0053] receiving a measurement report sent by a terminal device;

[0054] inputting the measurement report into a DRL model, and outputting switching indication information from the DRL model;

[0055] in response to the switching indication information indicating that the terminal device performs network switching, sending switching request information to a first network element, the switching request information being used to request switching the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

[0056] In the above embodiments, the DRL model outputs the switching indication information of the terminal device based on the measurement report reported by the terminal device, and uses a deep reinforcement learning mode in the decision of cell switching, which can make the cell switching decision more consistent with the network state, so as to ensure the service continuity of the terminal device.

[0057] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the first access network device accesses a first network, and the second access network device accesses a second network, one of the first network and the second network being a terrestrial cellular network, and the other being a non-terrestrial network; or the first access network device and the second access network device access the same network.

[0058] In the above embodiments, the terminal device has multiple network switching modes, and can determine an optimal network switching mode based on an actual network condition, thereby better ensuring service continuity.

[0059] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication device receives response information of the switching request information sent by the first network element.

[0060] The communication device sends, to the terminal device, radio resource control (RRC) connection reconfiguration information, the RRC connection reconfiguration information including mobility control information of the terminal device.

[0061] In the above embodiments, the RRC connection reconfiguration information is sent to the terminal device to instruct the terminal device to perform RRC connection reconfiguration, so as to release the RRC connection with the first access network device.

[0062] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication device transmits, to the second access network device, data in a buffer and data being transmitted.

[0063] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication device sends, to the first network element, state information of the data, the state information including at least a sequence number (SN) of the data.

[0064] In the above embodiments, the first access network device transmits, to the second access network device, data in a buffer and data being transmitted, so as to ensure service continuity of the terminal device and avoid data loss and service abnormality.

[0065] The communication device receives path switching request information sent by the terminal device, and sends the path switching request information to the first network element.

[0066] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication device receives a path switching end identifier sent by the second network element.

[0067] In the above embodiments, the communication devices perform a switching process, so as to ensure successful network switching of the terminal device, thereby ensuring continuous transmission of service data and enabling continuous service of the terminal device.

[0068] In some embodiments of the first aspect, the communication device receives context release information of the terminal device sent by the second access network device, releases resources occupied by the context of the terminal device, and / or sends the context release information to the first network element.

[0069] In the above embodiment, after the network switching is completed, the first access network device and the first network element need to release the resources occupied by the context of the terminal device, so as to facilitate subsequent scheduling of the resources and rationalize use of the resources.

[0070] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the training algorithm of the DRL model comprises at least one of the following algorithms: a deep Q-network (DQN) algorithm, a double deep Q-network (DDQN) algorithm, and an actor-critic algorithm.

[0071] In combination with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the training sample of the DRL model comprises: a state at a current moment, an operation of the state at the current moment, and a state at a next moment.

[0072] In the above embodiment, the DRL model is trained by using a suitable algorithm and the training sample, so that the DRL model meeting the demand in prediction effect is obtained, and the network switching decision can be optimized.

[0073] In the second aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network switching method, applicable to a first network element, and the method comprises:

[0074] receiving switching request information sent by a first access network device, the switching request information being used to request switching of a terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device;

[0075] sending the switching request information to the second access network device.

[0076] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, authentication request information sent by the second access network device is received, and authentication information is sent to the second access network device.

[0077] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, response information of the switching request information sent by the second access network device is received, and the response information of the switching request information is sent to the first access network device.

[0078] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, data in a buffer and data being transmitted sent by the first access network device are received, and the data in the buffer and the data being transmitted are sent to the second access network device.

[0079] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, state information of the data sent by the first access network device is received, the state information at least comprising SN of the data, and the state information of the data is sent to the second access network device.

[0080] In combination with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, path switching request information sent by the first access network device is received, and the path switching request information is sent to the second access network device.

[0081] sending the user plane update request information to the second network element; and receiving response information of the user plane update request information sent by the second network element;

[0082] sending response information of the path switching request information to the terminal device and the second access network device.

[0083] In some embodiments of the second aspect, the path end identifier is sent to the first access network device.

[0084] In some embodiments of the second aspect, context release information of the terminal device sent by the first access network device is received, and resources occupied by a context of the terminal device and the first access network device are released; and / or, the context release information is sent to the second network element.

[0085] In a third aspect, a network switching method is provided, and the method is applied to a second access network device, and the method comprises the following steps:

[0086] receiving switching request information sent by a first network element, the switching request information being used for requesting switching of a terminal device from a first access network device to the second access network device.

[0087] In some embodiments of the third aspect, authentication request information is sent to the first network element; and authentication information sent by the first network element is received.

[0088] In some embodiments of the third aspect, a control permission operation is performed, and the control permission operation is used for judging whether the second access network device permits access of the terminal device.

[0089] In some embodiments of the third aspect, response information of the switching request information is sent to the first network element.

[0090] In some embodiments of the third aspect, state information of data sent by the first network element is received.

[0091] In some embodiments of the third aspect, user plane data of the terminal device sent by the second network element is received.

[0092] In some embodiments of the third aspect, synchronization information of uplink and downlink transmission sent by the terminal device is received.

[0093] In some embodiments of the third aspect, RRC connection reconfiguration completion information sent by the terminal device is received.

[0094] In some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the response information to the path switching request information sent by the first network element is received.

[0095] In a fourth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network switching method, applicable to a second network element, and the method comprises:

[0096] receiving the update request information of the user plane sent by the first network element, and performing a path switching operation;

[0097] sending response information of the update request information to the first network element.

[0098] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the end of path switching identifier is sent to the first access network device.

[0099] In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the release information of the context of the terminal device sent by the first network element is received, and the resources occupied by the context of the terminal device are released.

[0100] In a fifth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a network switching method, applicable to a terminal device, and the method comprises:

[0101] receiving the measurement control information sent by the first access network device;

[0102] sending the measurement report to the first access network device.

[0103] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the RRC connection reconfiguration information sent by the first access network device is received, and the reconfiguration information comprises the mobility control information of the terminal device.

[0104] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the terminal device is separated from a source cell currently accessed by the terminal device and covered by the first access network device, and is synchronized to a target cell covered by the second access network device.

[0105] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the synchronization information of uplink and downlink transmission is sent to the second access network device.

[0106] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the RRC connection reconfiguration completion information is sent to the second access network device.

[0107] In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the path switching request information is sent to the first access network device;

[0108] receiving the response information to the path switching request information sent by the first network element.

[0109] In a sixth aspect, the embodiments of the present disclosure provide a first access network device, comprising:

[0110] a transceiver, configured to receive the measurement report sent by the terminal device, and send, when the handover instruction information indicates to perform network handover, handover request information to the first network element, the handover request information being used to request to handover the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device;

[0111] a processing module, configured to input the measurement report into the DRL model, and output the handover instruction information from the DRL model.

[0112] In a seventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a first network element, comprising:

[0113] a transceiver, configured to receive the handover request information sent by the first access network device, the handover request information being used to request to handover the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device, and send the handover request information to the second access network device.

[0114] In an eighth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a second access network device, comprising:

[0115] a transceiver, configured to receive the handover request information sent by the first network element, the handover request information being used to request to handover the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0116] In a ninth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a second network element, comprising:

[0117] a transceiver, configured to receive the update request information of the user plane sent by the first network element, and perform a path handover operation, and send response information of the update request information to the first network element.

[0118] In a tenth aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a terminal device, comprising:

[0119] a transceiver, configured to receive the measurement control information sent by the first access network device, and send the measurement report to the first access network device.

[0120] In an eleventh aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a communication device, comprising:

[0121] one or more processors;

[0122] The processor is configured to invoke instructions to enable the communication device to perform the network handover method in any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect.

[0123] According to a twelfth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided, and the storage medium stores instructions, and when the instructions run on a communication device, the communication device performs the network switching method according to any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect.

[0124] According to a thirteenth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a computer program product is provided, and when the computer program product runs on a communication device, the communication device performs the network switching method according to any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect.

[0125] According to a fourteenth aspect of the embodiments of the present disclosure, a chip or chip system is provided. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, and the fifth aspect.

[0126] It can be understood that the communication device, the storage medium, the computer program product, the chip or the chip system described above are all used to perform the method proposed in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can refer to the beneficial effects in the corresponding method, which will not be described here.

[0127] The embodiments of the present disclosure propose a network switching method, and in some embodiments, the terms of information processing method, information sending method, information receiving method, and communication method can be replaced with each other, and the terms of information processing device, information sending device, information receiving device, and communication device can be replaced with each other, and the terms of information processing system, communication system, information sending system, and information receiving system can be replaced with each other.

[0128] The embodiments of the present disclosure are not exhaustive, but only illustrate some embodiments, and are not specific limitations on the protection scope of the present disclosure. In the case of no contradiction, each step in an embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be combined arbitrarily, for example, the scheme after removing some steps in an embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in an embodiment can be exchanged arbitrarily, in addition, the optional implementation in an embodiment can be combined arbitrarily; in addition, the embodiments can be combined arbitrarily, for example, the steps of different embodiments can be combined arbitrarily, and an embodiment can be combined with the optional implementation of other embodiments.

[0129] In each embodiment of the present disclosure, if there is no special description and logical conflict, the terms and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be referred to each other, and the technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form a new embodiment according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0130] The terms used in the embodiments of the present disclosure are only for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure.

[0131] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, an element expressed in singular form, such as "a", "an", "the", "said", "the aforementioned", "the foregoing", "this", and the like, unless otherwise specified, can represent "one and only one", or can represent "one or more", "at least one", and the like. For example, in the case of using an article such as "a", "an", "the", and the like in English, the noun following the article can be understood as a singular expression, or can be understood as a plural expression.

[0132] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, "plurality" means two or more.

[0133] In some embodiments, the terms "at least one of", "at least one of", "at least one of", "one or more", "a plurality of", "multiple", and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0134] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the description manner such as "at least one of A, B, C, and the like", "A and / or B and / or C, and the like" includes any one of A, B, C, and the like existing alone, and also includes any combination of any multiple of A, B, C, and the like, each of which can exist alone; for example, "at least one of A, B, C" includes a single A, a single B, a single C, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, a combination of A and B and C; for example, A and / or B includes a single A, a single B, a combination of A and B.

[0135] In some embodiments, the description manner such as "A in one case, B in another case", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", and the like can include the following technical solutions according to the case: A is executed regardless of B, that is, A in some embodiments; B is executed regardless of A, that is, B in some embodiments; A and B are selectively executed, that is, A and B are selected from A and B to be executed in some embodiments; A and B are both executed, that is, A and B in some embodiments. When there are more branches such as A, B, C, and the like, it is similar to the above.

[0136] The prefix words of "first", "second" and the like in the embodiments of the present disclosure are merely used to distinguish different description objects, and do not constitute limitation on the position, order, priority, quantity or content of the description objects. The description objects are described in the claims or embodiments, and should not be construed as redundant limitation because of the use of the prefix words. For example, the description object is "field", and the ordinal words before "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not limit the position or order between "fields", and "first" and "second" do not limit whether the "fields" modified thereby are in the same message or not, nor limit the order of "first field" and "second field". For another example, the description object is "level", and the ordinal words before "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not limit the priority between "levels". For another example, the quantity of the description object is not limited by the ordinal words, and can be one or more. For example, "first device", wherein the quantity of "device" can be one or more. In addition, the objects modified by different prefix words can be the same or different, for example, the description object is "device", and "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and the types thereof can be the same or different; for another example, the description object is "information", and "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and the contents thereof can be the same or different.

[0137] In some embodiments, "including A", "containing A", "for indicating A", "carrying A" can be interpreted as directly carrying A, or indirectly indicating A.

[0138] In some embodiments, the terms of "in response to", "in response to determining", "in the case of", "when", "when", "if", "if" and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0139] In some embodiments, the terms of "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 lower than", "above" and the like can be replaced with each other, and the terms of "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", "below" and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0140] In some embodiments, an apparatus or the like can be interpreted as an entity, and can also be interpreted as virtual, and the name thereof is not limited to the name described in the embodiments, and the terms "apparatus", "equipment", "device", "circuit", "network element", "node", "function", "unit", "section", "system", "network", "chip", "chip system", "entity", "subject" and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0141] In some embodiments, a "network" can be interpreted as an apparatus (for example, an access network device, a core network device, and the like) included in the network.

[0142] 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 can be replaced with each other.

[0143] 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," and so on can be replaced with each other.

[0144] In some embodiments, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device can be replaced with a terminal. For example, the embodiments of the present disclosure can also be applied to a structure in which communication between the access network device, the core network device, or the network device and the terminal is replaced with communication between a plurality of terminals (for example, also referred to as device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and so on). In this case, the terminal can also be configured to have all or part of the functions of the access network device. In addition, the language of "uplink," "downlink," and so on can also be replaced with language corresponding to the inter-terminal communication (for example, "side"). For example, the uplink channel, the downlink channel, and so on can be replaced with the side channel, and the uplink, the downlink, and so on can be replaced with the side link.

[0145] In some embodiments, the terminal can be replaced with the access network device, the core network device, or the network device. In this case, the access network device, the core network device, or the network device can also be configured to have all or part of the functions of the terminal.

[0146] In some embodiments, the data, information, etc. can be obtained in compliance with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0147] In some embodiments, the data, information, etc. can be obtained after obtaining the consent of the user.

[0148] In addition, each element, each row, or each column in the table of the embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0149] The correspondence shown in each table in the present disclosure can be configured or predefined. The values of the information in each table are merely examples, and other values can be configured, and the present disclosure is not limited. When configuring the correspondence between the information and each parameter, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows in the table in the present disclosure can also not be configured. For another example, the above table can be appropriately deformed, adjusted, etc., such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the titles of the above tables can also use other names understandable by the communication device, and the values or representations of the parameters can also use other values or representations understandable by the communication device. The above tables can also use other data structures when implemented, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear tables, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, etc.

[0150] The predefinition in the present disclosure can be understood as definition, predefinition, storage, prestorage, prenegotiation, preconfiguration, solidification, or pre-burning.

[0151] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of an architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1A, the communication system 100 can include a terminal 101, an access network device 102, a core network device 103, a satellite 104, and a ground station 105. Among them, the access network device 102 and the core network device 103 constitute a ground cellular network, and the satellite 104, the ground station 105, and the core network device 103 can constitute an NTN.

[0152] In some embodiments, the terminal device 101 includes at least one of a mobile phone, a wearable device, an Internet of Things device, a communication-capable automobile, a smart automobile, a tablet (Pad), a wireless transceiver-equipped computer, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), 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, a wireless terminal device in a smart home, or the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0153] In some embodiments, the access network device 102 is, for example, a node or device that accesses a terminal to a wireless network, and can include at least one of an evolved NodeB (eNB) in a 5G communication system, a next generation eNB (ng-eNB), a next generation NodeB (gNB), a node B (NB), a home node B (HNB), a home evolved node B (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 RAN, a Cloud RAN, a base station in other communication systems, an access node in a Wi-Fi system, or the like, but is not limited thereto.

[0154] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of the present disclosure can be applicable to an Open RAN architecture, at this time, the interfaces between or within the access network devices involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can become internal interfaces of the Open RAN, and the processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented through software or programs.

[0155] In some embodiments, the access network device can be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU), where the CU can also be referred to as a control unit. The CU-DU structure can split the protocol layers of the access network device, and some of the protocol layers are controlled by the CU, and the rest or all of the protocol layers are distributed in the DU and controlled by the CU, but not limited thereto.

[0156] In some embodiments, the core network device 103 can be one device including the first network element, the second network element, etc., or can be multiple devices or device groups including all or part of the first network element, the second network element, etc. The network element can be virtual or physical. The core network includes at least one of an evolved packet core (EPC), a 5G core network (5GCN), a 6G core network (6GCN), and a next generation core (NGC), for example.

[0157] Optionally, the core network device can include one or more of a location management function (LMF) network element, a user plane function (UPF) network element, a policy control function (PCF) network element, an application function (AF) network element, an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element, a session management function (SMF) network element, and a unified data management function (UDM) network element.

[0158] In some embodiments, the satellite 104 includes a low earth orbit satellite, a sun-synchronous orbit satellite, a large elliptical orbit satellite, a geosynchronous orbit satellite, a geostationary orbit satellite, a communication satellite, a navigation satellite, a remote sensing satellite, a scientific satellite, and the like.

[0159] In some embodiments, the ground station 105 includes a transmitting and receiving ground station, an uplink and downlink, and a communication satellite transponder for any one satellite communication link. The basic function of the ground station 105 is to transmit signals to the satellite and to receive signals that are retransmitted by other ground stations via the satellite. The ground station 105 can include, for example, fixed stations, mobile stations, and detachable stations, among others.

[0160] It can be understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of the present disclosure is for more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art can know that, as the system architecture evolves and new business scenarios appear, the technical solutions proposed in the embodiments of the present disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0161] The following embodiments of the present disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG. 1A or part of the subject, but are not limited thereto. The subjects shown in FIG. 1A are exemplary, and the communication system can include all or part of the subjects in FIG. 1A, or other subjects other than those in FIG. 1A. The number and form of each subject is arbitrary, and the connection relationship between the subjects is exemplary. The subjects can be connected or not connected, and the connection can be in any manner, can be direct connection or indirect connection, and can be wired connection or wireless connection.

[0162] 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 (Bluetooth (registered trademark)), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) network, Device-to-Device (D2D) system, Machine to Machine (M2M) system, Internet of Things (IoT) system, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X), system using other determination methods, next-generation system expanded based thereon, and the like. In addition, a plurality of systems can be combined (for example, combination of LTE or LTE-A and 5G, and the like).

[0163] FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication system includes a plurality of base stations of a terrestrial cellular network, e.g., BS1, BS2, and BS3, and a plurality of satellites of an NTN, e.g., Sat1, Sat2, Sat3, and Sat4.

[0164] Optionally, there is a direct communication link between base stations, for example, there is a direct communication link between BS1 and BS2, or there is a direct communication link between BS2 and BS3.

[0165] Optionally, there is an indirect communication link between base stations, for example, there is an indirect communication link between BS1 and BS3, and the communication between BS1 and BS3 needs to be relayed through BS2.

[0166] Optionally, there is a direct communication link between satellites, for example, there is a direct communication link between Sat4 and Sat2, or there is a direct communication link between Sat2 and Sat3.

[0167] Optionally, there is an indirect communication link between satellites, for example, there is an indirect communication link between Sat4 and Sat3, and the communication between Sat4 and Sat3 needs to be relayed through Sat2.

[0168] Optionally, there is a direct communication link between base stations and satellites, for example, there is a direct communication link between BS1 and Sat4, or there is a direct communication link between BS2 and Sat4, or there is a direct communication link between BS2 and Sat2, or there is a direct communication link between BS2 and Sat3.

[0169] Optionally, there is an indirect communication link between base stations and satellites, for example, there is an indirect communication link between BS1 and Sat1, and the communication between BS1 and Sat1 needs to be relayed through BS2, or there is an indirect communication link between BS1 and Sat3, and the communication between BS1 and Sat3 needs to be relayed through Sat4.

[0170] In the network switching scenario, the terminal device can have multiple switching modes, for example, from BS1 to BS2, or from BS1 to BS3 through BS2, or from BS1 to Sat1, or from BS1 to Sat4, or from BS1 to Sat1 through BS2, or from BS1 to Sat3 through Sat4, or from BS1 to Sat2 through Sat4.

[0171] FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram of switching between communication networks according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1C, the UAV is currently accessing a gNB. When the UAV moves to a remote area or a non-land area or a disaster area where the infrastructure is damaged, since the ground cellular network has relatively poor ability to provide coverage in these areas, the UAV needs to switch from the currently accessed gNB to a satellite in order to continue the service connection.

[0172] FIG. 2A is an interaction diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, and the method comprises:

[0173] In step S2100, the first network element transmits mobility control information to other network devices.

[0174] In some embodiments, the first network element can be an AMF network element in the core network, or other network elements in the core network.

[0175] In some embodiments, the other network devices can include, but are not limited to: a first access network device to which the terminal is currently accessing, and a second access network device to be accessed.

[0176] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a base station, and the second access network device can be a satellite.

[0177] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a satellite, and the second access network device can be a base station.

[0178] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a base station, and the second access network device can also be a base station.

[0179] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a satellite, and the second access network device can also be a satellite.

[0180] In some embodiments, the mobility control information mainly includes various data and instructions related to access and mobility management, which are used to support the access, mobility, session management, etc. of the user equipment (UE).

[0181] In step S2101, the first access network device sends measurement control information.

[0182] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be an access network device in a terrestrial cellular network, such as a base station.

[0183] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be an access network device in an NTN, such as a satellite.

[0184] In some embodiments, the measurement control information can configure the terminal device to perform measurement.

[0185] In some embodiments, the measurement control information includes, but is not limited to: measurement events (such as A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, etc.), measurement quantities, reporting thresholds corresponding to the measurement quantities, measurement value reporting strategies (such as periodic or aperiodic), etc.

[0186] In some embodiments, the measurement quantity can include, but is not limited to, a reference signal received power (RSRP), a reference signal received quality (RSRQ), a signal to interference plus noise ratio (SINR), and the like.

[0187] At step S2102, the terminal device performs data transmission with the network device.

[0188] In some embodiments, the network device includes an access network device and a core network device.

[0189] In some embodiments, the terminal device can still perform data transmission with the network device of the currently accessed network before network switching, and the data can be packet data.

[0190] In some embodiments, the terminal device can send data to the first access network device, and the first access network device can send the data to other network elements in the core network.

[0191] In some embodiments, the network device can send signaling or data to the terminal device.

[0192] That is, before network switching, the terminal device maintains uplink transmission and downlink transmission with the currently accessed network device until network switching is successful, and the uplink transmission and downlink transmission with the currently accessed network device are ended.

[0193] At step S2103, the terminal device sends a measurement report.

[0194] In some embodiments, the measurement report can include, but is not limited to, the measurement value of each measurement quantity.

[0195] In some embodiments, the measurement report can include, but is not limited to, the measurement value of the measurement quantity of the serving cell currently camped by the terminal device, and the measurement value of the measurement quantity of the adjacent cell.

[0196] In some embodiments, after the terminal device obtains the measurement value of the measurement quantity, it needs to determine whether the measurement value of the measurement quantity meets the reporting condition before reporting.

[0197] At step S2104, the measurement report is input into a deep reinforcement learning model, and the deep reinforcement learning model outputs switching indication information.

[0198] In some embodiments, the switching indication information can be used to indicate whether the terminal device needs to perform network switching.

[0199] In some embodiments, the handover indication information can further indicate a second access network device to which the terminal device needs to access.

[0200] In some embodiments, the handover indication information can further indicate a handover type, which can include a cell handover within a terrestrial cellular network, an inter-cell handover within an NTN, and a handover from a cell within a terrestrial cellular network to a cell within an NTN.

[0201] In some embodiments, the algorithm used by the DRL model can include but is not limited to a policy gradient algorithm, a deep Q network (DQN) algorithm, a Double DQN algorithm, an actor-critic algorithm, a state-action-reward-state-action (SARSA) algorithm, and a trust region policy optimization (TRPO) algorithm.

[0202] In some embodiments, the training samples of the DRL model can include but are not limited to a current state, a current action, and a next state.

[0203] In some embodiments, the DRL model is iterated multiple times based on the training samples to obtain a DRL model with a minimum loss function.

[0204] In some embodiments, the DRL model can be trained in an online learning mode, or the DRL model can be trained in an offline learning mode.

[0205] In step S2105, in response to the handover indication information indicating that the terminal device performs network handover, a handover request information is sent to the first network element.

[0206] In some embodiments, the handover request information is used to request a handover of the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0207] In some embodiments, the handover request information includes but is not limited to a source network and a first access device currently accessed by the terminal device, an identity of a target network and a second access network device to which the terminal device is expected to be handed over, identity information of the terminal device, a network handover type of the terminal device, a handover reason, security information, network quality information, a timestamp, and the like.

[0208] In some embodiments, the first network accessed by the first access network device and the second network accessed by the second access network device, one of the first network and the second network is a terrestrial cellular network, and the other is an NTN. Optionally, when the first access network device accesses the terrestrial cellular network and the second access network device accesses the NTN, the first access network device is a source base station currently accessed by the terminal device, and the second access network device is a target satellite accessed by the terminal device after switching. Optionally, when the first access network device accesses the NTN and the second access network device accesses the terrestrial cellular network, the first access network device is a source satellite currently accessed by the terminal device, and the second access network device is a target base station accessed by the terminal device after switching. That is, the terminal device can switch from within the terrestrial cellular network to within the NTN, or the terminal device can switch from within the NTN to within the terrestrial cellular network. For example, the terminal device moves from an area with good quality of the terrestrial cellular network to an area with poor quality of the terrestrial cellular network, and in order to ensure service continuity of the terminal device, the terminal device can switch from within the terrestrial cellular network to within the NTN.

[0209] In some embodiments, the first access network device and the second access network device access the same network. Optionally, the first access network device and the second access network device both access a terrestrial cellular network. The terminal device can switch within a cell covered by the terrestrial cellular network. Optionally, the first access network device and the second access network device both access an NTN. The terminal device can switch within a cell covered by the NTN.

[0210] In some embodiments, the first access network device sends the switching request information to the first network element. Optionally, the first network element receives the switching request information sent by the first access network device.

[0211] In some embodiments, the first network element can be an AMF network element in a core network or other network element in the core network.

[0212] In some embodiments, the first access network device is a source base station, and the source base station sends the switching request information to the AMF network element.

[0213] In some embodiments, the first access network device is a source satellite, and the source satellite sends the switching request information to the AMF network element.

[0214] In step S2106, the first network element sends the switching request information to the second access network device.

[0215] In some embodiments, the second access network device is an access network device in a target network to which the terminal device is expected to switch.

[0216] In some embodiments, the second access network device can be a target base station.

[0217] In some embodiments, the second access network device can be a target satellite.

[0218] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a source base station, and the second access network device can be a target base station.

[0219] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a source base station, and the second access network device can be a target satellite.

[0220] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a source satellite, and the second access network device can be a target base station.

[0221] In some embodiments, the first access network device can be a source satellite, and the second access network device can be a target satellite.

[0222] In some embodiments, the first network element can determine the second access network device based on the handover request information, and send the handover request information to the second access network device, and optionally, the second access network device receives the handover request information sent by the first network element.

[0223] In step S2107, the second access network device sends authentication request information to the first network element.

[0224] In some embodiments, the second access network device can send the authentication request information to the first network element, and optionally, the first network element can receive the authentication request information.

[0225] In some embodiments, the authentication request information can be used to verify the identity of the terminal device, and after the identity verification, the subsequent handover process can be performed.

[0226] In step S2108, the first network element sends authentication information to the second access network device.

[0227] In some embodiments, the first network element sends the authentication information to the second access network device, and the second access network device receives the authentication information sent by the first network element.

[0228] In some embodiments, the authentication information includes but is not limited to specific information of the terminal device, such as password, key, device identification, timestamp, etc., to verify its identity and validity.

[0229] In step S2109, the second access network device performs a control permission operation.

[0230] In some embodiments, the second access network device performs a control permission operation to determine whether to allow the terminal device to access.

[0231] In some embodiments, the second access network device can determine its resource usage, and determine whether the remaining resources meet the conditions for terminal device access. Optionally, when the remaining resources meet the terminal device requirements, it can be determined that the terminal device is allowed to access, and further step S2110 is performed. Optionally, when the remaining resources do not meet the terminal device requirements, an indication information of not allowing access can be returned, so that the terminal device re-performs the network switching process.

[0232] In step S2110, the second access network device sends response information of the switching request information to the first network element.

[0233] In some embodiments, when the second access network device determines to allow the terminal device to access, it can send response information of the switching request information to the first network element. Optionally, the first network element receives the response information of the switching request information.

[0234] In step S2111, the first network element sends response information of the switching request information to the first access network device.

[0235] In some embodiments, based on the response information of the switching request information, the first network element determines that the second access network device allows the terminal device to access, and sends the response information of the switching request information to the first access network device. Optionally, the first access network device receives the response information of the switching request information.

[0236] In step S2112, the first access network device sends RRC connection reconfiguration information to the terminal device.

[0237] In some embodiments, based on the response information of the switching request information, the first access network device determines that the second access network device allows the terminal device to access, and sends the RRC connection reconfiguration information to the terminal device. Optionally, the terminal device can receive the RRC connection reconfiguration information.

[0238] In some embodiments, the RRC connection reconfiguration information can include, but is not limited to, mobility control information of the terminal device.

[0239] In some embodiments, the terminal device can perform corresponding RRC reconfiguration operations according to the configuration items of the RRC connection reconfiguration information.

[0240] It can be understood that steps S2101 to S2112 in the embodiments of the present application are the Handover Preparation phase.

[0241] In step S2113, the terminal device separates from the source cell and synchronizes to the target cell.

[0242] In some embodiments, the source cell is a cell currently accessed by the terminal device and is within the coverage of the first access network device.

[0243] In some embodiments, the target cell is a cell that the terminal device expects to access, and is within the coverage of the second access network device.

[0244] In some embodiments, the source cell can be a cell covered by the source base station, or a cell covered by the source satellite.

[0245] In some embodiments, the target cell can be a cell covered by the target base station, or a cell covered by the target satellite.

[0246] In some embodiments, the source cell is a cell covered by the source base station, and the target cell is a cell covered by the target satellite, which can realize switching of the terminal device from the terrestrial cellular network to the NTN.

[0247] In some embodiments, the source cell is a cell covered by the source satellite, and the target cell is a cell covered by the target base station, which can realize switching of the terminal device from the NTN to the terrestrial cellular network.

[0248] In some embodiments, the source cell is a cell covered by the source base station, and the target cell is a cell covered by the target base station, which can realize switching of the terminal device between different cells in the terrestrial cellular network.

[0249] In some embodiments, the source cell is a cell covered by the source base station, and the target cell is a cell covered by the target base station, which can realize switching of the terminal device between different cells in the NTN.

[0250] In some embodiments, after the terminal device receives the RRC connection reconfiguration information and performs the reconfiguration operation, in order to release the resources of the source cell, it needs to be detached from the source cell, and further, in order to ensure the service continuity of the terminal device, it needs to be synchronized with the target cell, for example, to start random access, resource allocation and data transmission, etc.

[0251] Step S2114, the first access network device transmits the data in the buffer and the data being transmitted to the second access network device.

[0252] Step S2115, the first access network device sends the state information of the data to the first network element.

[0253] Step S2116, the first network element sends the state information of the data to the second access network device.

[0254] In some embodiments, in wireless communication, the first access network device will usually buffer some data (such as packet data) for the terminal device, which can be downlink data that has not been sent, or uplink data that has been received but has not been forwarded.

[0255] In some embodiments, the packet data being transmitted is usually downlink data being transmitted before the handover but not yet transmitted, or uplink data being forwarded.

[0256] In some embodiments, when the terminal device performs the cell handover, the first access network device needs to ensure that the buffered data can be correctly transmitted to the second access network device, and the first access network device transmits the buffered data and the packet data being transmitted to the first network element.

[0257] In some embodiments, in order to ensure the continuity of data transmission, a series of coordination and communication between the first access network device and the second access network device is needed. The first access network device can transmit the buffered data and the packet data being transmitted to the second access network device. Alternatively, the first access network device sends the buffered data and the packet data being transmitted to the first network element, and the first network element forwards the buffered data and the packet data being transmitted to the second access network device.

[0258] In some embodiments, the first access network device can also send the state information of the buffered data and the packet data being transmitted, such as sequence number, acknowledgement information, etc., to the second access network device through the first network element, so that the second access network device can continue the previous transmission process.

[0259] Step S2117, the first access network device sends the user plane data related to the terminal device to the second network element.

[0260] Step S2118, the second network element sends the user plane data related to the terminal device to the second access network device.

[0261] In some embodiments, the second network element can be a UPF network element or other network element in the core network.

[0262] In some embodiments, the first access network device can send the user plane data related to the terminal device to the second network element.

[0263] Step S2119, the terminal device synchronizes the uplink and downlink transmission with the second access network device.

[0264] In some embodiments, the terminal device can synchronize the uplink and downlink transmission with the target base station.

[0265] In some embodiments, the terminal device can synchronize the uplink and downlink transmission with the target satellite.

[0266] Step S2120, the terminal device sends the RRC connection reconfiguration completion information to the second access network device.

[0267] In some embodiments, the terminal device reconfigures the RRC connection based on the RRC connection reconfiguration information to establish the RRC connection with the second access network device, and after completing the RRC connection reconfiguration, the terminal device sends RRC connection reconfiguration completion information to the second access network device. Optionally, the second access network device receives the RRC connection reconfiguration completion information.

[0268] In some embodiments, when the second access network device is a target satellite, the terminal device can send the RRC connection reconfiguration completion information to the target satellite.

[0269] In some embodiments, when the second access network device is a target base station, the terminal device can send the RRC connection reconfiguration completion information to the target base station.

[0270] Step S2121, the terminal device sends data to the second access network device.

[0271] In some embodiments, after the RRC connection reconfiguration is completed, the RRC connection between the terminal device and the second access network device is established, and the terminal device can send data to the second access network device. Optionally, the second access network device receives the data sent by the terminal device. Optionally, the data sent by the terminal device can be packet data.

[0272] Step S2122, the second access network device sends the data to the second network element.

[0273] In some embodiments, after the second access network device obtains the data sent by the terminal device, the second access network device can send the data of the terminal device to the second network element.

[0274] Step S2123, the terminal device sends path switching request information to the first access network device.

[0275] Step S2124, the first access network device sends the path switching request information to the first network element.

[0276] In some embodiments, in order to establish the downlink between the terminal device and the second access network and ensure that the downlink data is directly forwarded to the second access network device, a path switching operation needs to be performed on the second network element to close the path with the first access network device and open the path with the second access network device.

[0277] In some embodiments, after the RRC connection between the terminal device and the second access network device is established, the terminal device can send the path switching request information to the first access network device. Optionally, the first access network device receives the path switching request information.

[0278] In some embodiments, after receiving the path switch request information, the first access network device sends the path switch request information to the first network element. Optionally, the first network element receives the path switch request information.

[0279] In some embodiments, the path switch request information comprises: an identifier of the first access network device and the second access network device, a cell identifier of the current access cell, a cell identifier of the to-be-accessed cell, device information of the terminal device, and the like.

[0280] In step S2125, the first network element sends update request information of the user plane to the second network element.

[0281] In some embodiments, after receiving the path switch request information, the first network element sends update request information of the user plane to the second network element, for notifying the second network element that the user plane path of the terminal device is switched from the first access network device to the second access network device by the service mesh.

[0282] It can be understood that steps S2113 to S2125 in the embodiments of the present application are the Handover Execution phase.

[0283] In step S2126, the second network element executes a path switch procedure.

[0284] In step S2127, the second network element sends an end marker to the first access network device.

[0285] In some embodiments, after receiving the update request information of the user plane, the second network element can execute the path switch procedure, for example, updating the data plane state of the user, allocating new radio resources, and the like, to ensure that the user data can be correctly transmitted on the second access network device or the target cell.

[0286] In some embodiments, after the second network element executes the path switch procedure, an end marker can be sent on the old path corresponding to the first access network device. Optionally, the end marker can not carry any data, indicating that the path corresponding to the first access network device is closed.

[0287] In some embodiments, after sending the end path marker, the second network element releases the user plane resources of the first access network device.

[0288] In step S2128, the second network element sends data to the second access network device.

[0289] In some embodiments, after the path switch is completed, the second network element can send downlink data to the second access network device.

[0290] Step S2129, the first access network device sends a path switching end identifier to the second access network device.

[0291] In some embodiments, after receiving the path switching end identifier sent by the second network element, the first access network device can forward the path switching end identifier to the second access network device to inform the first access network device that the path corresponding to the first access network device is closed and the path corresponding to the second access network device is opened, and the second access network device can communicate with the terminal device based on the path corresponding to the second access network device.

[0292] Step S2130, the second network element sends response information of the update request information of the user plane to the first network element.

[0293] In some embodiments, after completing the update operation of the user plane, the second network element can send the response information of the update request information to the first network element to inform the first network element that the update of the user plane by the second network element is completed. Optionally, the first network element can receive the response information of the update request information sent by the second network element.

[0294] Step S2131, the first network element sends response information of the path switching request information to the second access network device.

[0295] In some embodiments, the first network element sends the response information of the path switching request information to the second access network device to inform the second access network device that the update of the user plane by the second network element is completed. Optionally, the second access network device receives the response information of the path switching request information, and the second access network device can communicate with the terminal device based on the path corresponding to the second access network device.

[0296] Step S2132, the first network element sends the response information of the path switching request information to the terminal device.

[0297] In some embodiments, the first network element sends the response information of the path switching request information to the terminal device to inform the terminal device that the path switching with the second access network device is completed, and the terminal device can communicate with the second access network device based on the path corresponding to the second access network device.

[0298] Step S2133, the second access network device sends context release information of the terminal device to the first access network device.

[0299] In some embodiments, after receiving the response information of the path switching request information, the second access network device determines that the terminal device switching is completed, the second access network device can establish or modify new uplink information for the terminal device, in order to save network resources, the second access network device can send the context release information of the terminal device to the first access network device to instruct the first access network device to delete the context of the terminal device.

[0300] Step S2134, the first access network device releases resources occupied by the terminal device context.

[0301] In some embodiments, after receiving the context release information, the first access network device can delete the terminal device context based on the context release information, to release resources occupied by the terminal device context.

[0302] Step S2135, the first access network device sends the terminal device context release information to the first network element.

[0303] In some embodiments, the first access network device can also send the terminal device context release information to the first network element, to instruct the first network element to delete the terminal device context related to the first access network device, to release resources occupied by the part of the context.

[0304] Step S2136, the first network element sends the terminal device context release information to the second network element.

[0305] In some embodiments, the first network element can also send the terminal device context release information to the first network element, to instruct the first network element to delete the terminal device context related to the first access network device, to release resources occupied by the part of the context.

[0306] It can be understood that steps S2126 to S2136 in the embodiments of the present application are the Handover Completion phase.

[0307] In some embodiments, the names of information and the like are not limited to the names described in the embodiments, and the terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "symbol", "codebook", "codeword", "code point", "bit", "data", "program", "chip", and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0308] In some embodiments, the terms “uplink,” “uplink,” “physical uplink,” and the like can be replaced with each other, the terms “downlink,” “downlink,” “physical downlink,” and the like can be replaced with each other, and the terms “side,” “sidelink,” “sidelink communication,” “sidelink communication,” “direct connection,” “direct connection link,” “direct connection communication,” “direct connection link communication,” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0309] In some embodiments, the terms “downlink control information (DCI),” “downlink (DL) assignment,” “DL DCI,” “uplink (UL) grant,” “UL DCI,” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0310] In some embodiments, the terms “physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH),” “DL data,” and the like can be replaced with each other, and the terms “physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH),” “UL data,” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0311] In some embodiments, the terms “radio,” “wireless,” “radio access network (RAN),” “access network (AN),” “RAN-based,” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0312] In some embodiments, the terms “wireless access scheme,” “waveform,” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0313] In some embodiments, the terms “acquire,” “obtain,” “get,” “receive,” “transmit,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive,” and the like can be replaced with each other, and can be interpreted as receiving from other subjects, obtaining from protocols, obtaining from higher layers, obtaining by oneself, and the like.

[0314] In some embodiments, the terms “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “issue,” “transmit,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive,” and the like can be replaced with each other.

[0315] In some embodiments, the terms "certain", "preset", "pre-set", "set", "indicated", "any", "first", and the like can be replaced with each other, and "certain A", "preset A", "pre-set A", "set A", "indicated A", "any A", "first A" can be interpreted as A predetermined in a protocol or the like, or A obtained by setting, configuring, or indicating, or a specific A, any A, or first A, but are not limited thereto.

[0316] In some embodiments, the determination or judgment can be made 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.

[0317] In some embodiments, "not expecting to receive" can be interpreted as not receiving on the time domain resource and / or the frequency domain resource, or as not performing subsequent processing on the data or the like after receiving the data or the like; "not expecting to send" can be interpreted as not sending, or as sending but not expecting the receiving party to respond to the content of the sending.

[0318] The information processing method according to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S2101 to S2134.

[0319] For example, step S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2103+S2014 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2101+S2103+S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2104+S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2101+S2103+S2104+S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2101+S2103+S2104+S2105+S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2104+S2105+S2106+S2107+S2108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S2101+S2103+S2104+S2105+S2106+S2107+S2108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but are not limited thereto.

[0320] In some embodiments, the order of steps S2102 and S2103 can be exchanged; the order of steps 2128 and S2129 can be exchanged; the order of steps S2134, S2135, and S2136 can be exchanged; and the like.

[0321] In some embodiments, steps S2102, S2135 and S2136 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0322] FIG. 3A is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a first access network device, and the above method comprises:

[0323] In step S3101, measurement control information is sent to a terminal device.

[0324] The optional implementation of step S3101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0325] In step S3102, data transmission is performed with the terminal device.

[0326] The optional implementation of step S3102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2102 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0327] In step S3103, a measurement report sent by the terminal device is received.

[0328] The optional implementation of step S3103 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0329] In step S3104, the measurement report is input into a DRL model, and switching indication information is output by the DRL model.

[0330] The optional implementation of step S3104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2104 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0331] In step S3105, in response to the switching indication information indicating that the terminal device performs network switching, switching request information is sent to a first network element.

[0332] The optional implementation of step S3105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0333] In step S3106, response information of the switching request information sent by the first network element is received.

[0334] The optional implementation of step S3106 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2107-S2111 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0335] In step S3107, the RRC connection reconfiguration information is sent to the terminal device.

[0336] The optional implementation of step S3107 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2112 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0337] In step S3108, the data in the buffer and being transmitted is transmitted to the second access network device.

[0338] The optional implementation of step S3108 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2114 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0339] In step S3109, the status information of the data is sent to the first network element.

[0340] The optional implementation of step S3109 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2115 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0341] In step S3110, the user plane data related to the terminal device is sent to the second network element.

[0342] The optional implementation of step S3110 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2117-S2118 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0343] In step S3111, the path switching request information sent by the terminal device is received, and the path switching request information is sent to the first network element.

[0344] The optional implementation of step S3111 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2123-S2124 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0345] In step S3112, the path switching end identifier sent by the second network element is received, and the path switching end identifier sent by the second access network device is sent.

[0346] The optional implementation of step S3112 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2127 and S2129 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0347] Step S3113. Receiving, from the second access network device, context release information of the terminal device.

[0348] Step S3114. Releasing resources occupied by the terminal device context.

[0349] The optional implementation of steps S3113-S3114 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2133-S2134 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0350] Step S3115. Sending, to the first network element, context release information of the terminal device.

[0351] The optional implementation of step S3115 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2135 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0352] The information processing method involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S3101-S3115.

[0353] For example, step S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S3103+S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S3101+S3103+S3104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S3104+S3105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S3101+S3103+S3104+S3105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S3101+S3102+S3104+S3105+S3106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0354] In some embodiments, the order of steps S3102 and S3103 can be exchanged, and the order of steps S3114 and S3115 can be exchanged.

[0355] In some embodiments, steps S3103, S3106, S3112 and S3115 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0356] FIG. 3B is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3B, the embodiments of the present disclosure involve a network switching method, which is performed by a first access network device, and the above method includes:

[0357] Step S3201. Sending, to the terminal device, measurement control information.

[0358] The optional implementation of step S3201 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0359] In step S3202, the measurement report is received from the terminal device.

[0360] The optional implementation of step S3202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0361] In step S3203, the measurement report is input into the DRL model, and the switching indication information is output by the DRL model.

[0362] The optional implementation of step S3203 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2104 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0363] In step S3204, in response to the switching indication information indicating that the terminal device performs network switching, the switching request information is sent to the first network element.

[0364] The optional implementation of step S3204 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0365] FIG. 4A is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a first network element, and the above method comprises:

[0366] In step S4101, the switching request information sent by the first access network device is received.

[0367] The optional implementation of step S4101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0368] In step S4102, the switching request information is sent to the second access network device.

[0369] The optional implementation of step S4102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0370] In step S4103, the authentication request information sent by the second access network device is received, and the authentication information is sent to the second access network device.

[0371] The optional implementation of step S4103 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2107-S2108 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0372] Step S4104, receiving response information of the handover request information sent by the second access network device.

[0373] The optional implementation of step S4104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2110 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0374] Step S4105, sending response information of the handover request information to the first access network device.

[0375] The optional implementation of step S4105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2111 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0376] Step S4106, receiving the data in the buffer and the data being transmitted transmitted by the first access network device and sending to the second access network device.

[0377] The optional implementation of step S4106 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2114 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0378] Step S4107, receiving state information of the data sent by the first access network device.

[0379] The optional implementation of step S4107 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2115 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0380] Step S4108, sending the state information of the data to the second access network device.

[0381] The optional implementation of step S4108 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2116 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0382] Step S4109, receiving path handover request information sent by the first access network device.

[0383] The optional implementation of step S4109 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2124 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0384] Step S4110, sending update request information of the user plane to the second network element.

[0385] The optional implementation of step S4110 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2125 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0386] In step S4111, response information of the update request information of the user plane sent by the second network element is received.

[0387] The optional implementation of step S4111 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2130 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0388] In step S4112, response information of the path switching request information is sent to the second access device.

[0389] The optional implementation of step S4112 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2131 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0390] In step S4113, response information of the path switching request information is sent to the terminal device.

[0391] The optional implementation of step S4113 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2132 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0392] In step S4114, context release information of the terminal device sent by the first access network device is received.

[0393] In step S4115, resources occupied by the context of the terminal device are released.

[0394] The optional implementation of steps S4114-S4115 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2135 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0395] In step S4116, context release information of the terminal device is sent to the second network element.

[0396] The optional implementation of step S4116 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2136 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0397] The information processing method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S4101-S4115.

[0398] For example, step S4101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S4101+S4102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S4103+S4104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S4101+S4102+S4103+S4104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S4101+S4102+S4103+S4104+S4107 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S4101+S4102+S4107+S4108+S4109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but the present application is not limited thereto.

[0399] In some embodiments, the order of steps S4115 and S4116 can be exchanged.

[0400] In some embodiments, steps S4105, S4106, S4111, 4113, S4114 and S4115 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0401] FIG. 4B is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4B, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a first network element, and the above method comprises the following steps:

[0402] In step S4201, the switching request information sent by the first access network device is received.

[0403] The switching request information is used to request switching of the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0404] The optional implementation of step S4201 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2105 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be described here.

[0405] In step S4202, the switching request information is sent to the second access network device.

[0406] The optional implementation of step S4202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be described here.

[0407] FIG. 5A is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a second access network device, and the above method comprises the following steps:

[0408] In step S5101, the switching request information sent by the first network element is received.

[0409] The optional implementation of step S5101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0410] In step S5102, the authentication request information is sent to the first network element.

[0411] The optional implementation of step S5102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2107 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0412] In step S5103, the authentication information sent by the first network element is received.

[0413] The optional implementation of step S5103 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2108 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0414] In step S5104, the control allowing operation is performed.

[0415] The optional implementation of step S5104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2109 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0416] In step S5105, the response information of the handover request information is sent to the first network element.

[0417] The optional implementation of step S5105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2110 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0418] In step S5106, the buffered and transmitting data sent by the first network element is received.

[0419] The optional implementation of step S5106 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2114 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0420] In step S5107, the state information of the data sent by the first network element is received.

[0421] The optional implementation of step S5107 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2116 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0422] In step S5108, the uplink and downlink transmission synchronization with the terminal device is performed.

[0423] The optional implementation of step S5108 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2119 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0424] In step S5109, the RRC connection reconfiguration completion information sent by the terminal device is received.

[0425] The optional implementation of step S5109 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2120 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0426] In step S5110, the data sent by the terminal device is received.

[0427] The optional implementation of step S5110 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2121 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0428] In step S5111, the data of the terminal device is sent to the second network element.

[0429] The optional implementation of step S5111 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2122 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0430] In step S5112, the response information of the path switching request information sent by the first network element is received.

[0431] The optional implementation of step S5112 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2131 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0432] In step S5113, the context release information of the terminal device is sent to the first access network device.

[0433] The optional implementation of step S5113 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2133 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0434] The network switching method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S5101-S5113.

[0435] For example, step S5101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S5101+S5102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S5103+S5104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S5101+S5102+S5103+S5104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S5101+S5102+S5103+S5104+S5106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S5101+S5102+S5104+S5106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S5101+S5102+S5104+S5106+S5107+S5108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but the present application is not limited thereto.

[0436] In some embodiments, steps S5105, S5110, S5111 and 5112 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0437] FIG. 5B is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5B, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a second access network device, and the above method comprises:

[0438] Step 5201, receiving switching request information sent by a first network element.

[0439] In some embodiments, the switching request information is used to request switching of the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0440] The optional implementation of step S5101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2106 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0441] FIG. 6A is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a second network element, and the above method comprises:

[0442] Step S6101, receiving user plane data of a terminal device sent by a first access network device.

[0443] The optional implementation of step S6101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2117 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0444] Step S6102, sending the user plane data of the terminal device to a second access network device.

[0445] The optional implementation of step S6102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2118 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0446] Step S6103, receiving data sent by the second access network device.

[0447] The optional implementation of step S6103 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2122 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0448] Step S6104, receiving update request information of a user plane sent by the first network element.

[0449] The optional implementation of step S6104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2125 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0450] Step S6105, performing a path switching process.

[0451] The optional implementation of step S6105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2126 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0452] Step S6106, sending a path switching end identifier to the first access network device.

[0453] The optional implementation of step S6106 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2127 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0454] Step S6107, sending data to the second access network device.

[0455] The optional implementation of step S6107 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2128 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0456] Step S6108, sending response information of the update request information to the first network element.

[0457] The optional implementation of step S6108 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2130 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, details are not described herein.

[0458] Step S6109, receiving context release information of the terminal device sent by the first network element, and releasing resources occupied by the context.

[0459] The optional implementation of step S6109 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2136 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0460] The network switching method involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S6101-S6109.

[0461] For example, step S6105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S6105+S6106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S6105+S6106+S6107 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S6101+S6102+S6103+S6104+S6105+S6106+S6107, S6105+S6106+S6107+S6109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S6101+S6102+S6103+S6104+S6105+S6106+S6107 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0462] In some embodiments, steps S6107 and S6109 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0463] FIG. 6B is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 6B, the embodiments of the present disclosure involve a network switching method, which is executed by a second network element, and the above method includes:

[0464] In step S6201, the update request information of the user plane sent by the first network element is received, and a path switching operation is performed.

[0465] The optional implementation of step S6201 can refer to the optional implementation of steps S2125 and S2126 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0466] In step S6202, response information of the update request information is sent to the first network element.

[0467] The optional implementation of step S6202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2130 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments involved in FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0468] FIG. 7A is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7A, the embodiments of the present disclosure involve a network switching method, which is executed by a terminal device, and the above method includes:

[0469] In step S7101, measurement control information sent by a first access network device is received.

[0470] The optional implementation of step S7101 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0471] Step S7102, transmitting data with the network device.

[0472] The optional implementation of step S7102 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2102 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0473] Step S7103, sending a measurement report to the first access network device.

[0474] The optional implementation of step S7103 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0475] Step S7104, receiving RRC connection reconfiguration information sent by the first access network device.

[0476] The optional implementation of step S7104 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2112 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0477] Step S7105, separating from the source cell and synchronizing to the target cell.

[0478] The optional implementation of step S7105 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2113 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0479] Step S7106, synchronizing uplink and downlink transmission to the second access network device.

[0480] The optional implementation of step S7106 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2119 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0481] Step S7107, sending RRC connection reconfiguration completion information to the second access network device.

[0482] The optional implementation of step S7107 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2120 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A. Here, details are not described again.

[0483] Step S7108, sending data of the terminal device to the second access network device.

[0484] The optional implementation of step S7108 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2121 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0485] In step S7109, the path switching request information is sent to the first access network device.

[0486] The optional implementation of step S7109 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2123 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0487] In step S7110, the response information of the path switching request information sent by the first network element is received.

[0488] The optional implementation of step S7110 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2132 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0489] The network switching method related to the embodiments of the present disclosure can include at least one of steps S7101-S7110.

[0490] For example, step S7103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S7101+S7103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S7101+S7103+S7104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S7101+S7103+S7104+S7105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S7101+S7102+S7103+S7104+S7105+S7106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S7101+S7103+S7104+S7105+S7106+S7107, S7101+S7103+S7104+S7105+S7106+S7107+S7109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, S7101+S7103+S7104+S7105+S7106+S7107+S7109+S7110 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but not limited thereto.

[0491] In some embodiments, the order of steps S7102 and S7103 can be exchanged.

[0492] In some embodiments, steps S7102, S7108 and S7110 are optional, and one or more of these steps can be omitted or replaced in different embodiments.

[0493] FIG. 7B is a processing schematic diagram of a network switching method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7B, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a network switching method, which is performed by a terminal device, and the above method comprises the following steps:

[0494] In step S7201, measurement control information sent by the first access network device is received.

[0495] The optional implementation of step S7201 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2101 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0496] In step S7202, a measurement report is sent to the first access network device.

[0497] The optional implementation of step S7202 can refer to the optional implementation of step S2103 in FIG. 2A and other associated parts in the embodiments related to FIG. 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0498] The following is an exemplary introduction to the above method.

[0499] In the case of the fusion of the ground station of the satellite network and the ground cellular network, the present application proposes a 6G network architecture and a deep integration of NTN network, guarantees the continuity of service, and uses a deep reinforcement learning method in the decision of inter-cell switching (including the ground network and the satellite). The combination of NTN and future 6G network provides a feasible and economically efficient method to ensure uninterrupted and universal wireless coverage, thereby promoting the scalability of the network. To ensure the continuity of service, a deep reinforcement learning method is used in the decision of inter-cell (including ground network and satellite) switching.

[0500] Optionally, network switching prediction can be performed on the source gNB side based on the DRL model in combination with the measurement report, and it is predicted that switching from the source base station to the target satellite is needed.

[0501] As shown in FIG. 8A, the DRL model can be trained by using any one of the following methods:

[0502] Online reinforcement learning (online reinforcement learning);

[0503] Off-policy reinforcement learning (off-policy reinforcement learning);

[0504] Offline reinforcement learning (offline reinforcement learning).

[0505] DRL models can be trained using algorithms such as Deep Q-network (DQN), Double Deep Q-network, and Actor Critic.

[0506] As illustrated in Figure 8B, this demonstrates the training process of a DRL model based on the Deep Q-network algorithm. The goal of the Deep Q-network (DQN) is to maximize the expected reward by approximating the q-function. The core idea is to approximate the q-function using a neural network.

[0507] Optionally, the training samples include the current state s. t The basic operation 'a' of the current state * (t) The state s at the next time step t+1 The training samples are input into the DRL model for training to obtain the reward r. t Furthermore, based on reward r t and Calculate the loss function of the DRL model Training continues until the loss function of the DRL model after training is minimized, at which point the training ends and a trained DRL model is obtained. It should be noted that the next action is selected entirely empirically. By iterating through all possible actions, the future can be simulated and the action providing the highest reward can be selected. The reward is considered using a binary approach, i.e., correct / incorrect prediction. This setup is suitable for switching detection problems. Once training is complete, the DRL model can provide an estimate as a prediction based on measurement reports. The DRL model can estimate the value of each action given the current state, and then the agent can choose the action that maximizes the reward.

[0508] For example, Figure 8C illustrates the process of training a DRL model based on the DDQN algorithm. The core idea of ​​the Double Deep Q-network (DDQN) is that the model consists of two neural networks: one trained for the current q-function and the other trained for the target q-function. After several iterations, the target q-function can be considered the future of the current q-function.

[0509] The terminal device can be handed over from the source base station to the target satellite, and the specific process is shown in FIG. 2A, wherein the terminal device is a UAV, the first access network device is a source base station (source gNB), the second access network device is a target satellite (target SAT), the first network element is an AMF network element, and the second network element is a UPF network element. Network handover prediction can be performed based on the DRL model in combination with the measurement report at the source gNB side, and when it is predicted that handover from the source base station to the target satellite is needed, network handover can be performed according to the interaction process shown in FIG. 2A. In the future 6G network, seamless handover (HO) between the next generation NodeB (gnB) and the satellite can be achieved by five nodes.

[0510] In this embodiment, the HO process can be divided into three stages

[0511] 1. Preparation phase: The first phase of HO includes preparing different nodes to perform this process. The AMF broadcasts all mobile-related information to each node, while the drone (UE) acquires the measurement control message through the source node (gnB) and sends the measurement report to the source node. The HO decision is made on the gnB or satellite through a deep reinforcement learning algorithm. Decision parameters: including the wireless signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, and elevation angle provided by the UE measurement report. The trained deep reinforcement learning model is input, and then the HO decision is made. Once the HO decision is made, a request is sent to transfer the control of the source node (gNB) to the target node (satellite) through the AMF. Then, the AMF sends the allow control command process, etc., to connect the drone (UE) to the satellite.

[0512] 2. Execution phase: In the second phase, the execution of HO occurs after preparation. The first step is to reconfigure all the radio resource control (RRC) connections, mainly the "mobilityControlInformation", which is responsible for carrying all the update information. Then the drone is handed over from the old base station to the satellite. In this phase, any data packets in the buffer or in transit will be re-routed to the satellite. Next, the sequence number (SN) status transmission is sent by the gnB to the AMF, which ensures the transmission of data packets from the source node to the target node. The AMF sends the SN status transmission to the satellite. After RRC reconfiguration is completed, the drone (UE) has completed synchronization with the satellite. The last step is to perform the path data transmission path of the drone (UE) from the source node gNB to the target node satellite.

[0513] 3. Completion phase: In this phase, the final steps are performed. HO has been completed. First, after receiving the path switch request, the UPF updates the relevant data plane information. The path switch confirmation is sent to the drone (UE) through the satellite. The last step is to release the gNB context, i.e., to release the resource network.

[0514] The embodiment of the present disclosure realizes deep fusion of the NTN network and the 6G ground cellular network, and can realize seamless switching of services and maintain continuity of services.

[0515] The embodiment of the present disclosure also proposes a device for implementing any of the above methods, for example, a device including units or modules for implementing each step performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. For another example, another device is proposed, including units or modules for implementing each step performed by the network equipment (such as access network equipment, core network function node, core network equipment, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0516] It should be understood that the division of each unit or module in the above device is only a logical function division, and all or part of them can be integrated into one physical entity or physically separated in actual implementation. In addition, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected with a memory, the memory stores instructions, and the processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to realize the functions of each unit or module of the device, wherein the processor is a general processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory is a memory in the device or a memory outside the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit, and the functions of part or all of the units or modules can be realized by the design of hardware circuit, and the hardware circuit can be understood as one or more processors; for example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the functions of part or all of the units or modules are realized by the design of the logical relationship of the elements in the circuit; for another example, in another implementation, the hardware circuit is a programmable logic device (PLD), and 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 a configuration file, so as to realize the functions of part or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented in the form of processor calling software, or all units or modules can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit, or part of the units or modules can be implemented in the form of processor calling software, and the remaining part can be implemented in the form of hardware circuit.

[0517] In the embodiments of the present disclosure, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capability. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction reading and running capability, such as a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), a digital signal processor (DSP), or the like. In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through a logical relationship of hardware circuits, and the logical relationship of the hardware circuits is fixed or can be reconfigured. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented by an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In the reconfigurable hardware circuit, the processor loads a configuration document to implement the configuration of the hardware circuit. It can be understood that the processor loads instructions to implement the functions of the above part or all units or modules. In addition, the hardware circuit can also be designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a neural network processing unit (NPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), a deep learning processing unit (DPU), or the like.

[0518] FIG. 9 is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9, the communication device 9100 can include at least one of a transceiver module 9101, a processing module 9102, and the like.

[0519] In some embodiments, the communication device 9100 is a first access network device. The transceiver module 9101 is configured to receive a measurement report sent by a terminal device, and send a handover request information to a first network element when a handover indication information indicates to perform network handover, the handover request information being used to request to handover the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

[0520] The processing module 9102 is configured to input the measurement report into a DRL model, and output the handover indication information from the DRL model.

[0521] Optionally, the transceiver module and the processing module are configured to perform at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, performed by the first access network device in any of the above methods. Details are not described herein again.

[0522] In some embodiments, the communication device 9100 is a first network element. The transceiver 9101 receives handover request information sent by a first network element, the handover request information being used to request handover of the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

[0523] Optionally, the transceiver and the processing module are configured to perform at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, performed by the first network element in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0524] In some embodiments, the communication device 9100 is a second access network device. The transceiver 9101 receives handover request information sent by a first network element, the handover request information being used to request handover of the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

[0525] Optionally, the transceiver and the processing module are configured to perform at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, performed by the second access network device in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0526] In some embodiments, the communication device 9100 is a second network element. The transceiver 9101 receives user plane update request information sent by a first network element and performs path switching operation; and sends response information of the update request information to the first network element.

[0527] Optionally, the transceiver and the processing module are configured to perform at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, performed by the second network element in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0528] In some embodiments, the communication device 9100 is a terminal device. The transceiver 9101 receives measurement control information sent by the first access network device; and sends measurement report to the first access network device.

[0529] Optionally, the transceiver and the processing module are configured to perform at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, performed by the terminal device in any of the above methods, which will not be repeated here.

[0530] In some embodiments, the transceiver can include a sending module and / or a receiving module, which can be separate or integrated together. Optionally, the transceiver can be replaced by a transceiver.

[0531] In some embodiments, the processing module can be one module or can include multiple sub-modules. Optionally, the multiple sub-modules perform all or part of the steps required to be performed by the processing module. Optionally, the processing module can be replaced by a processor.

[0532] FIG. 10A is a structural schematic diagram of a communication device 10100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 10100 can be a first communication device (e.g., a core network device, etc.), a second communication device (e.g., an access network device, a user equipment, a core network device, etc.), a chip, a chip system, or a processor supporting the first communication device to implement any of the above methods, or a chip, a chip system, or a processor supporting the second communication device to implement any of the above methods. The communication device 10100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments, which can be specifically referred to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0533] As shown in FIG. 10A, the communication device 10100 includes one or more processors 10101. The processor 10101 can be a general processor or a special-purpose processor, for example, a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit can be used to control a communication device (e.g., a base station, a baseband chip, a terminal device, a terminal device chip, a DU or a CU, etc.), execute programs, and process data of the programs. Optionally, the communication device 10100 is configured to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the one or more processors 10101 are configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 10100 to perform any of the above methods.

[0534] In some embodiments, the communication device 10100 further includes one or more transceivers 10102. When the communication device 10100 includes the one or more transceivers 10102, the transceiver 10102 performs at least one of the communication steps (e.g., transmitting and / or receiving) in the above methods, and the processor 10101 performs other steps. In optional embodiments, the transceiver can include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which can be separate or integrated together. Optionally, the terms of transceiver, transceiving unit, transceiver, transceiving circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc. can be replaced with each other, and the terms of transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc. can be replaced with each other, and the terms of receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc. can be replaced with each other.

[0535] In some embodiments, the communication device 10100 also includes one or more memories 10103 for storing data. Optionally, all or a portion of the memory 10103 can also reside in the communication device 10100. In some embodiments, the communication device 10100 can include one or more interface circuits 10104. Optionally, the interface circuit 10104 can be used to receive data from the memory 10102 or from another device or system, or to send data to the memory 10102 or to another device or system. For example, the interface circuit 10104 can receive data in packets, each packet having a header and a payload, and can send the payload to the processor 10101.

[0536] The communication device 10100 described in the above embodiments can be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 10100 described in the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 10100 can not be limited by FIG. 10A. The communication device can be a standalone device or can be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device can be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit (IC), or a chip, or a chip system or subsystem; (2) a set of one or more ICs, which can optionally also include a storage component for storing data, programs; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, a terminal device, a smart terminal device, a cellular phone, a wireless device, a handset, a mobile unit, a vehicle-mounted device, a network device, a cloud device, an artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) other devices, etc.

[0537] FIG. 10B is a structural schematic diagram of a chip 10200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For the case where the communication device 10100 is a chip or a chip system, the structural schematic diagram of the chip 10200 shown in FIG. 10B can be referred to, but is not limited thereto.

[0538] The chip 10200 includes one or more processors 10201. The chip 10200 is configured to perform any of the above methods.

[0539] In some embodiments, chip 10200 also includes one or more interface circuits 10202. Optionally, the interface circuits, interface, transceiver pins, etc. can be replaced by one another. In some embodiments, chip 10200 also includes one or more memory 10203 for storing data. Optionally, all or some of memory 10203 can be external to chip 10200. Optionally, interface circuit 10202 is connected with memory 10203, and interface circuit 10202 can be configured to receive data from memory 10203 or other devices, and interface circuit 10202 can be configured to send data to memory 10203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 10202 can read data stored in memory 10203 and send the data to processor 10201.

[0540] In some embodiments, interface circuit 10202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above methods, which are not repeated here. The communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by interface circuit 10202 in the above methods refer to, for example, interface circuit 10202 performing data interaction between processor 10201, chip 10200, memory 10203 or transceiver devices. In some embodiments, processor 10201 performs other steps.

[0541] The modules and / or devices described in each of the embodiments of virtual devices, physical devices, chips, etc. can be combined or separated as appropriate. Optionally, some or all of the steps can also be performed by multiple modules and / or devices in cooperation, which are not limited here.

[0542] The disclosure also proposes a storage medium, and the above storage medium stores instructions, when the instructions run on communication device 10100, causing communication device 10100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the above storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the above storage medium is a computer readable storage medium, but is not limited to this, and it can also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the above storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, but is not limited to this, and it can also be a transitory storage medium.

[0543] The disclosure also proposes a program product, and the above program product is executed by communication device 10100, causing communication device 10100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the above program product is a computer program product.

[0544] The disclosure also proposes a computer program, when it runs on a computer, causing the computer to perform any of the above methods.

[0545] In the embodiments described above, all or part of the embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware, firmware or any combination thereof. When implemented by software, all or part of the embodiments can be implemented in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs. When the computer programs are loaded on a computer and executed, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of the present disclosure are produced. The computer can be a general purpose computer, a special purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable devices. The computer programs can be stored in a computer readable storage medium or transferred from one computer readable storage medium to another computer readable storage medium, for example, the computer programs can be transferred from one website, computer, server or data center to another website, computer, server or data center through wired (such as coaxial cable, optical fiber, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (such as infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) mode. The computer readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible by a computer or a data storage device such as a server, data center, etc. integrated with one or more available media. The available media can be magnetic media (such as floppy disk, hard disk, magnetic tape), optical media (such as high-density digital video disc (digital video disc, DVD)), or semiconductor media (such as solid state disk (solid state disk, SSD)) and the like.

[0546] Those skilled in the art can appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of the examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether the functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. A skilled person can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the present disclosure.

[0547] Those skilled in the art can clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the above-described systems, devices and units can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be described here.

[0548] The above is only a specific implementation of the present disclosure, but the protection scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily think of changes or replacements within the technical range disclosed by the present disclosure, which should be covered within the protection scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the protection scope of the present disclosure should be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A network handover method, characterized by, The method suitable for a first access network device comprises: receiving a measurement report sent by a terminal device; inputting the measurement report into a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) model, and outputting switching indication information from the DRL model; in response to the switching indication information indicating that the terminal device performs network switching, sending switching request information to a first network element, the switching request information being used to request switching the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first access network device accesses a first network, and the second access network device accesses a second network, one of the first network and the second network being a ground cellular network and the other being a non-ground network; or the first access network device and the second access network device access the same network.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, After the step of sending the switching request information to the first network element, the method further comprises: receiving response information of the switching request information sent by the first network element; sending radio resource control (RRC) connection reconfiguration information to the terminal device, the RRC connection reconfiguration information comprising mobility control information of the terminal device.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, After the step of sending the RRC connection reconfiguration information to the terminal device, the method further comprises: transmitting data in a buffer and data being transmitted to the second access network device.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, After the step of transmitting the data in the buffer and the data being transmitted to the second access network device, the method further comprises: sending state information of the data to the first network element, the state information at least comprising a sequence number (SN) of the data.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, After the step of sending the state information of the data to the first network element, the method further comprises: receiving path switching request information sent by the terminal device; sending the path switching request information to the first network element.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein, After the step of sending the path switching request information to the first network element, the method further comprises: receiving path switching end identification sent by the second network element; sending the path switching end identification to the second access network device.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, After the step of sending the path switching end identification to the second access network device, the method further comprises: receiving context release information of the terminal device sent by the second access network device, and releasing resources occupied by the context of the terminal device; and / or sending the context release information to the first network element.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, The training algorithm of the DRL model comprises at least one of the following algorithms: a deep Q-network (DQN) algorithm, a double deep Q-network (DDQN) algorithm, and an actor-critic algorithm.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, The training sample of the DRL model comprises a current state, an operation of the current state, and a next state.

11. A network handover method, characterized by, The method suitable for a first network element comprises: receiving switching request information sent by a first access network device, the switching request information being used to request switching a terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device; sending the switching request information to the second access network device.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving authentication request information sent by the second access network device, and sending authentication information to the second access network device.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving response information of the switching request information sent by the second access network device; sending, to the first access network device, response information of the handover request information.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving data in a buffer and data being transmitted sent by the first access network device; sending, to the second access network device, the data in the buffer and the data being transmitted.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving status information of the data sent by the first access network device, the status information at least comprising a sequence number (SN) of the data; sending, to the second access network device, the status information of the data.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving path switch request information sent by the first access network device; sending, to the second network element, user plane update request information; receiving response information of the user plane update request information sent by the second network element; sending, to the terminal device and the second access network device, response information of the path switch request information.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The method further comprises: sending, to the first access network device, a path switch end identifier.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving context release information of the terminal device sent by the first access network device, and releasing resources occupied by a context of the terminal device related to the first access network device; and / or sending, to the second network element, the context release information.

19. A network handover method, characterized by, The method suitable for a second access network device comprises: receiving handover request information sent by a first network element, the handover request information being used for requesting to switch the terminal device from the first access network device to the second access network device.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, After the receiving the handover request information sent by the first network element, the method further comprises: sending, to the first network element, authentication request information; receiving authentication information sent by the first network element.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein, After the receiving the authentication information sent by the first network element, the method further comprises: performing a control permission operation, the control permission operation being used for judging whether the second access network device allows the terminal device to access.

22. The method of claim 19, wherein, The method further comprises: sending, to the first network element, response information of the handover request information.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving status information of data sent by the first network element.

24. The method of claim 19, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving user plane data of the terminal device sent by a second network element.

25. The method of claim 19, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving synchronization information of uplink and downlink transmission sent by the terminal device.

26. The method of claim 19, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving RRC connection reconfiguration completion information sent by the terminal device.

27. The method of claim 19, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving response information of path switch request information sent by the first network element.

28. A network handover method, comprising: The method suitable for a second network element comprises: receiving update request information of a user plane sent by a first network element, and performing a path switch operation; sending, to the first network element, response information of the update request information.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein, After the performing the path switch operation, the method further comprises: sending, to the first access network device, a path switch end identifier.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein, The method further comprises: receiving context release information of the terminal device sent by the first network element, and releasing resources occupied by a context of the terminal device related to the first access network device.

31. A network handover method, comprising: The method suitable for a terminal device comprises: receiving measurement control information sent by a first access network device; sending, to the first access network device, a measurement report.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein, The method further comprises: receive RRC connection reconfiguration information sent by the first access network device, the reconfiguration information including mobility control information of the terminal device.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein, The method further includes, after receiving the RRC connection reconfiguration information sent by the first access network device: detach from a source cell currently accessed by the terminal device and covered by the first access network device, and synchronize to a target cell covered by the second access network device.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein, The method further includes: send synchronization information of uplink and downlink transmission to the second access network device.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein, The method further includes: send RRC connection reconfiguration completion information to the second access network device.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein, The method further includes: send path switching request information to the first access network device; and / or receive response information of the path switching request information sent by the first network element.

37. A first access network device, comprising: The method includes: a transceiver module, configured to receive a measurement report sent by a terminal device, and send switching request information to a first network element when switching indication information indicates network switching, the switching request information being used to request switching of the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device; a processing module, configured to input the measurement report into a DRL model, and output the switching indication information from the DRL model.

38. A first network element, characterized by: The method includes: a transceiver module, configured to receive switching request information sent by a first access network device, the switching request information being used to request switching of the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device; send the switching request information to the second access network device.

39. A second access network device, comprising: The method includes: a transceiver module, configured to receive switching request information sent by a first network element, the switching request information being used to request switching of the terminal device from the first access network device to a second access network device.

40. A second network element, characterized by: The method includes: a transceiver module, configured to receive user plane update request information sent by a first network element, and perform path switching operation; send response information of the update request information to the first network element.

41. A terminal device, comprising: The method includes: a transceiver module, configured to receive measurement control information sent by a first access network device; send a measurement report to the first access network device.

42. A communications device, characterized by The method includes: one or more processors; The communication device is configured to perform the network switching method in any one of claims 1-10 or 11-18 or 19-27 or 28-30 or 31-36.

43. A storage medium, the storage medium storing instructions, wherein, The instructions, when executed on the communication device, cause the communication device to perform the information processing method in any one of claims 1-10 or 11-18 or 19-27 or 28-30 or 31-36.

44. A program product, which, when executed on a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the information processing method in any one of claims 1-10 or 11-18 or 19-27 or 28-30 or 31-36.

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