Communication method and communication apparatus

Abstract

The present application provides a communication method and a communication apparatus. In the method, an access network device can independently maintain a corresponding inactivity timer for each terminal. For example, the access network device can determine a corresponding first timer on the basis of a first duration reported by the terminal, or determine a corresponding first timer on the basis of the type of the terminal, or determine a corresponding second timer for different QoS flows, or determine a corresponding third timer for different service types, thereby facilitating release of a link between the access network device and the terminal upon expiration of the corresponding timer, and facilitating reduction of the power consumption of the terminal.

Description

Communication method and communication apparatus

[0001] The present application claims priority to the Chinese patent application No. 202411267287.4, filed on September 10, 2024, with the State Intellectual Property Office of China, and the Chinese patent application No. 202411267287.4 has the title of "A communication method and communication apparatus", the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to the field of communication technology, in particular to a communication method and communication apparatus. BACKGROUND

[0003] The inactivity timer on the side of the base station in the existing network is fixed; for example, the inactivity timer of the base station is a general configuration, which is used to release the terminal or schedule the terminal to enter the non-connected state after the base station starts the inactivity timer and the inactivity timer times out. However, if the inactivity timer is set too short, it may cause the terminal to frequently establish a link, resulting in a large signaling overhead, thereby causing a signaling storm; if the inactivity timer is set too long, it may cause the terminal to have a large power consumption. Therefore, how to set the inactivity timer to balance the communication and power consumption of the terminal becomes a problem to be solved. SUMMARY

[0004] The present application provides a communication method and communication apparatus, which can realize that the access network device independently maintains a corresponding inactivity timer for each terminal, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a terminal; for example, the method is implemented by a terminal device or a chip, or is implemented by an apparatus capable of implementing the function of the terminal device. In the method, the terminal determines a first time length of a first timer based on service information. The terminal sends information indicating the first time length to an access network device. The first timer is a timer configured in the access network device and is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device. The first timer is used to trigger the access network device to release the link between the terminal and the access network device after the first timer times out.

[0006] In the method, the terminal can determine the time length (such as the first time length) that the terminal hopes the network needs to wait after no data transmission, and report the first time length to the access network device, thereby helping the access network device to determine that the timeout time length of the first timer for the terminal is the first time length, and helping the access network device to independently maintain a corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0007] In a possible implementation, the terminal receives information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

[0008] In this embodiment, after the first timer expires, the terminal can also receive information indicating that the terminal releases the link with the access network device, so that the terminal can release the link or enter a non-connected state, which is beneficial to reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0009] In a possible implementation, the service information includes one or more of the following: a usage duration of the application, a usage frequency of the application, a usage time period of the application, a type of the application, a service type, a size of a data request, and a resource allocated by the network.

[0010] In this embodiment, the terminal can specifically evaluate the time required for the link between the terminal and the access network device according to the service information (for example, the usage duration of the application, the usage frequency of the application, and the like), and determine the first duration.

[0011] In a possible implementation, the information indicating the first duration is terminal assistance information. For example, the terminal can report the first duration to the access network device through terminal assistance information (UEAssistanceInformation).

[0012] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided. The method can be implemented by an access network device. For example, the access network device can be a network device (for example, a base station or the like), or a communication module or component of the access network device, or a logic module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. In this method, the access network device receives information indicating a first duration of a first timer. When there is no data transmission between the access network device and a terminal, the access network device starts the first timer. After the first timer expires, the access network device releases the link with the terminal.

[0013] In this method, the access network device can receive information about the first duration of the first timer reported by the terminal, so as to determine that the first duration of the first timer for the terminal is the first duration, and the access network device can independently maintain a corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the access network device sends information indicating that the terminal releases the link to the terminal.

[0015] In a third aspect, a communication method is provided. The method can be implemented by a terminal. For example, the method can be implemented by a terminal device or a chip, or a device capable of implementing the functions of the terminal device. In this method, the terminal obtains the type of the terminal. The terminal sends information indicating the type of the terminal to an access network device, and different types of terminals correspond to different first timers. The first timer is a timer configured in the access network device and is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device. The first timer is used to trigger the access network device to release the link with the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0016] In the method, the terminal can acquire the type of the terminal (e.g., based on predefined information or based on information from the access network device), and send information indicating the type of the terminal to the access network device, which facilitates the access network device to configure a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal, thereby facilitating the access network device to independently maintain the corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0017] In a possible implementation, the terminal receives information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

[0018] In the implementation, after the first timer expires, the terminal can also receive information indicating that the terminal releases the link with the access network device, so that the terminal can release the link or enter a non-connected state, which facilitates reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0019] In a possible implementation, the terminal determines the type of the terminal based on a power consumption sensitivity level. The power consumption sensitivity level can be predefined information or information received by the terminal from the access network device.

[0020] In the implementation, the terminal can determine the type of the terminal based on the power consumption sensitivity level, e.g., a power consumption sensitive terminal or a power consumption insensitive terminal, and the types of the two terminals are different, and it can be further inferred that the time lengths of the timers of the two terminals are also different. Optionally, the power consumption sensitivity level can be predefined information of a protocol, e.g., the protocol can define several different power consumption sensitivity levels to distinguish the types of different terminals.

[0021] In a fourth aspect, the present application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by an access network device, e.g., a network device (e.g., a base station), or a communication module or component of the access network device, or a logic module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. In the method, the access network device receives information indicating the type of the terminal, and different terminal types correspond to different first timers. The access network device starts a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. The access network device releases the link with the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0022] In the method, the access network device can receive the type of the terminal, and start the first timer corresponding to the type of the terminal based on the type of the terminal, thereby realizing that the access network device independently maintains the corresponding first timer for different types of terminals.

[0023] In a possible implementation, the access network device determines the corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. When there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal, the access network device starts the first timer.

[0024] In this embodiment, the access network device can independently maintain the corresponding first timer for different types of terminals, and start the corresponding first timer when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal, which is beneficial to release the link between the terminal and the access network device after the first timer expires, thereby reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0025] In a possible implementation, the type of the terminal is determined based on a power consumption sensitivity level; the power consumption sensitivity level is predefined information.

[0026] In a possible implementation, the access network device sends information indicating the power consumption sensitivity level to the terminal.

[0027] In the above embodiment, the information of the power consumption sensitivity level can be predefined by a protocol or indicated by the access network device to the terminal, which is beneficial to the terminal to determine the type of the terminal based on the information of the power consumption sensitivity level.

[0028] In a fifth aspect, a communication method is provided, which can be implemented by a first network element. For example, the first network element can be a session management network element, or a logical module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the session management network element. The first network element determines a second timer, which is a timer configured in an access network device and started when there is no data in a quality of service flow (QoS flow). The second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release a data resource bearer (DRB) carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires. The first network element sends information of the second timer.

[0029] In this method, the first network element can determine the second timer and send information of the second timer to the access network device, which is beneficial to the access network device to configure the second timer. The second timer is related to the QoS flow, for example, the second timer is started when there is no data in the QoS flow. The second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release the DRB carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires, which is beneficial to the access network device to release the link with the terminal and reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0030] In a possible implementation, when the link carries multiple QoS flows, the first network element determines multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple QoS flows. The first network element sends information indicating the access network device to release the link with the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire.

[0031] In this embodiment, if there are multiple QoS flows between the access network device and the terminal, since the second timer is related to the QoS flow, the first network element can determine multiple second timers respectively for the multiple QoS flows, the multiple second timers can have different timeout durations; and after the multiple second timers all expire, the first network element instructs the access network device to release multiple DRBs that carry the multiple QoS flows; after the multiple DRBs are released, the access network device can release a link between the access network device and the terminal (the link includes the multiple DRBs), which is conducive to reducing power consumption of the terminal while ensuring quality of service.

[0032] In a possible implementation, the first network element determines the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow based on a service characteristic of the QoS flow.

[0033] In this embodiment, the first network element can determine the timeout duration corresponding to the QoS flow based on a service characteristic of the QoS flow (for example, the QoS flow carries voice service or short message service, etc.), that is, determine the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow.

[0034] In a possible implementation, the first network element receives a first value of the second timer from the terminal. The first network element determines the second timer based on the first value and a local policy.

[0035] In this embodiment, the first network element can receive a first value reported by the terminal (for example, the first value is a recommended value of the second timer carried in service initiated by the UE), and then the first network element can determine the second timer based on the recommended value and a local policy (for example, whether the network authorizes the first value reported by the UE).

[0036] In a sixth aspect, the present application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by a first network element, for example, the first network element can be a session management network element, or a logical module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the session management network element. The first network element determines a second timer; the second timer is started when there is no data in a QoS flow; and the second timer is used to trigger a DRB of an access network device for carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires. The first network element starts the second timer when there is no data in the QoS flow. The first network element sends information for instructing the access network device to release the DRB for carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires.

[0037] In the method, the first network element configures a second timer, the second timer being associated with the QoS flow, for example, the second timer being started when there is no data in the QoS flow. If the first network element determines that the second timer is expired, the first network element can indicate the access network device to release the DRB for carrying the QoS flow, so as to facilitate the access network device to release the link with the terminal and reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0038] In a possible implementation, when the link carries multiple QoS flows, the first network element determines multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple QoS flows. The first network element sends information for instructing the access network device to release the link with the terminal after all the multiple second timers are expired.

[0039] In the implementation, if there are multiple QoS flows between the access network device and the terminal, since the second timer is associated with the QoS flow, the first network element can determine the second timer for each of the multiple QoS flows, and instruct the access network device to release the link with the terminal after all the multiple second timers are expired, which can reduce the power consumption of the terminal while ensuring the quality of service.

[0040] In a possible implementation, the first network element determines the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow based on a service characteristic of the QoS flow.

[0041] In the implementation, the first network element can determine the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow based on a service characteristic of the QoS flow, for example, the QoS flow is carrying voice service or short message service.

[0042] In a possible implementation, the first network element receives a first value of the second timer from the terminal. The first network element determines the second timer based on the first value and a local policy.

[0043] In the implementation, the first network element can receive the first value reported by the terminal, for example, the first value being a recommended value of the second timer carried in service initiated by the UE. The first network element can determine the second timer based on the recommended value and a local policy, for example, whether the network authorizes the first value reported by the UE.

[0044] In a seventh aspect, the present application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by an access network device, for example, the access network device can be a network device (such as a base station), or a communication module or component of the access network device, or a logic module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. In this aspect, the access network device receives information of a second timer. When there is no data in a quality of service flow corresponding to the second timer, the access network device starts the second timer. After the second timer expires, the access network device releases a link between the access network device and a terminal, and the link carries the quality of service flow.

[0045] In this method, the access network device can receive information of the second timer, so as to configure the second timer for different QoS flows. Moreover, when there is no data in the QoS flow corresponding to the second timer, the access network device starts the second timer, and releases the link between the access network device and the terminal after the second timer expires, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0046] In a possible implementation, when the link carries multiple quality of service flows, the access network device receives information of multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple quality of service flows. The access network device releases the link between the access network device and the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire.

[0047] In this implementation, when there are multiple QoS flows between the access network device and the terminal, since the second timer is related to the QoS flow, the access network device releases the link between the access network device and the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal while ensuring the quality of service.

[0048] In an eighth aspect, the present application provides a communication method, which can be implemented by an access network device, for example, the access network device can be a network device (such as a base station), or a communication module or component of the access network device, or a logic module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the access network device. In this aspect, the access network device determines a third timer associated with a service and a starting condition of the third timer based on a type of the service. When the starting condition is met, the access network device starts the third timer. After the third timer expires, the access network device releases a link between the access network device and a terminal, and the link carries the service.

[0049] In this method, the access network device can configure the third timer for different service types (such as real-time service, data service, signaling service, etc.), and determine the starting condition of the third timer for different service types. When the corresponding starting condition is met, the access network device starts the corresponding third timer, and releases the link between the access network device and the terminal after the third timer expires, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0050] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a first service. The starting condition of the third timer associated with the first service is that the access network device detects release of a dedicated bearer of the first service.

[0051] In this implementation, the service type includes a first service, for example, the first service can be a real-time service (such as a voice service, etc.). When the dedicated bearer of the first service is released, it means that the first service ends, and the access network device can start the third timer corresponding to the first service, and release the link between the terminal and the access network device after timeout.

[0052] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a second service. The starting condition of the third timer associated with the second service is that the access network device detects that the second service has no data transmission.

[0053] In this implementation, the service type includes a second service, for example, the second service can be a data service (such as a traffic webpage, etc.). When the second service has no data transmission, it means that the second service ends, and the access network device can start the third timer corresponding to the second service, and release the link between the terminal and the access network device after timeout.

[0054] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a third service. The starting condition of the third timer associated with the third service is that the access network device receives a starting indication of the third service or receives a stopping indication of the third service.

[0055] In this implementation, the service type includes a third service, for example, the third service can be a signaling service (such as a short message service (SMS), an IP multimedia subsystem (IMS) signaling, etc.). When the access network device receives the starting indication of the third service or the stopping indication of the third service, it means that the third service ends, and the access network device can start the third timer corresponding to the third service, and release the link between the terminal and the access network device after timeout.

[0056] In a ninth aspect, the present application provides a communication apparatus. The communication apparatus can be a terminal device or a chip, or an apparatus capable of realizing the function of the terminal device. In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus has the function of the first aspect or the third aspect, and any possible implementation of the first aspect or the third aspect, for example, the communication apparatus includes a module or unit or means corresponding to the operation of the first aspect or the third aspect, which can be realized by software, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0057] In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus comprises a communication unit and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to determine a first time length of a first timer based on the service information. The communication unit is configured to send information indicating the first time length to the access network device. The first timer is a timer configured in the access network device, and is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device. The first timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release the link between the terminal and the access network device after the first timer expires.

[0058] In this implementation, the communication apparatus can determine the time length (e.g., the first time length) that the terminal expects the network to wait after no data transmission, and report the first time length to the access network device, so as to help the access network device determine the time length of the first timer for the terminal as the first time length, and help the access network device maintain the corresponding first timer for each terminal independently.

[0059] In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus comprises a communication unit and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to obtain the type of the terminal. The communication unit is configured to send information indicating the type of the terminal to the access network device, wherein different types of terminals correspond to different first timers. The first timer is a timer configured in the access network device, and is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device. The first timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release the link between the terminal and the access network device after the first timer expires.

[0060] In this implementation, the communication apparatus can obtain the type of the terminal (e.g., determine the type of the terminal based on predefined information, or determine the type of the terminal based on information from the access network device), and send information indicating the type of the terminal to the access network device, so as to help the access network device configure the corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal, and help the access network device maintain the corresponding first timer for each terminal independently.

[0061] Optionally, other possible implementations of the ninth aspect can refer to the corresponding descriptions of other possible implementations of the first aspect or the third aspect, which will not be described herein.

[0062] In the tenth aspect, the present application provides a communication apparatus. The communication apparatus can be an access network device, or an apparatus capable of realizing the function of the access network device. In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus has the functions of the above-mentioned second aspect or the fourth aspect or the seventh aspect or the eighth aspect, and any one of the possible implementations of the second aspect or the fourth aspect or the seventh aspect or the eighth aspect, for example, the communication apparatus comprises a module or a unit or a means for performing the operations corresponding to the above-mentioned second aspect or the fourth aspect or the seventh aspect or the eighth aspect. The module or the unit or the means can be realized by software, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0063] In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus includes a communication unit and a processing unit. The communication unit is configured to receive information indicating a first duration of a first timer. The processing unit is configured to start the first timer when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal. The processing unit is further configured to release a link between the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0064] In this implementation, the communication apparatus can receive information about a first duration of a first timer reported by the terminal, so as to determine that the first timer for the terminal expires in the first duration, and thus the access network device can maintain a corresponding first timer for each terminal independently.

[0065] In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus includes a communication unit and a processing unit. The communication unit is configured to receive information indicating a type of the terminal, and different types of terminals correspond to different first timers. The processing unit is configured to start a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. The processing unit is further configured to release a link between the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0066] In this implementation, the communication apparatus can receive the type of the terminal, and start a first timer corresponding to the type of the terminal based on the type of the terminal, so as to enable the access network device to maintain a corresponding first timer for different types of terminals independently.

[0067] In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus includes a communication unit and a processing unit. The communication unit is configured to receive information about a second timer. The processing unit is configured to start the second timer when there is no data in a quality of service (QoS) flow corresponding to the second timer. The processing unit is further configured to release a link between the terminal after the second timer expires, where the link carries the QoS flow.

[0068] In this implementation, the communication apparatus can receive information about the second timer, so as to configure a second timer for different QoS flows. The communication apparatus can start the second timer when there is no data in a QoS flow corresponding to the second timer, and release a link between the terminal after the second timer expires, which is beneficial to reduce power consumption of the terminal.

[0069] In a possible implementation, the communication apparatus includes a communication unit and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to determine, based on a service type, a third timer associated with the service and a starting condition of the third timer. The processing unit is further configured to start the third timer when the starting condition is met. The processing unit is further configured to release a link between the terminal after the third timer expires, where the link carries the service.

[0070] In this embodiment, the communication apparatus can configure third timers for different service types (such as real-time service, data service, signaling service, etc.) and determine the starting conditions of the third timers for different service types. When the corresponding starting condition is met, the corresponding third timer is started, and the link between the terminal and the communication apparatus is released after the third timer expires, which is beneficial to reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0071] Optionally, other possible implementation manners in the tenth aspect can refer to the corresponding descriptions in other possible implementation manners in the second aspect or the fourth aspect or the seventh aspect or the eighth aspect, which will not be described herein.

[0072] In a eleventh aspect, the present application provides a communication apparatus. The communication apparatus can be a session management network element or a functional entity capable of implementing a session management function. In a possible implementation manner, the communication apparatus has the functions in the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect and any one of the possible implementation manners in the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect, for example, the communication apparatus includes modules or units or means corresponding to the operations in the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect, which can be implemented by software, or by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0073] In a possible implementation manner, the communication apparatus includes a communication unit and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to determine a second timer. The second timer is a timer configured in an access network device and is started when there is no data in a quality of service flow. The second timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release a DRB carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires. The communication unit is configured to send information of the second timer.

[0074] In this embodiment, the communication apparatus can determine the second timer and send information of the second timer to the access network device, which is beneficial to the access network device configuring the second timer. The second timer is related to a QoS flow, for example, the second timer is started when there is no data in the QoS flow. The second timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release a DRB carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires, which is beneficial to the access network device releasing a link with a terminal and reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0075] In a possible implementation manner, the communication apparatus includes a communication unit and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to determine a second timer. The second timer is started when there is no data in a quality of service flow. The second timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release a DRB carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires. The processing unit is further configured to start the second timer when there is no data in the quality of service flow. The communication unit is configured to send information indicating the access network device to release the DRB carrying the QoS flow after the second timer expires.

[0076] In this embodiment, the communication apparatus can configure a second timer, the second timer being associated with the QoS flow, for example, the second timer being started when there is no data in the QoS flow. If the first network element determines that the second timer is expired, the first network element can instruct the access network device to release the DRB carrying the QoS flow, thereby facilitating the access network device to release the link with the terminal and reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0077] Optionally, other possible implementation manners of the eleventh aspect can refer to the descriptions of other possible implementation manners of the fifth aspect or the sixth aspect, which will not be described herein.

[0078] In a twelfth aspect, the present application provides a communication apparatus, comprising a memory and one or more processors. The memory is configured to store part or all of the necessary computer programs or instructions for implementing the functions related to at least one of the above-mentioned first aspect to the eighth aspect. The one or more processors can execute the computer programs or instructions, when the computer programs or instructions are executed, so that the communication apparatus implements at least one of the following: the method in the first aspect and any possible implementation manner of the first aspect, the method in the second aspect and any possible implementation manner of the second aspect, the method in the third aspect and any possible implementation manner of the third aspect, the method in the fourth aspect and any possible implementation manner of the fourth aspect, the method in the fifth aspect and any possible implementation manner of the fifth aspect, the method in the sixth aspect and any possible implementation manner of the sixth aspect, the method in the seventh aspect and any possible implementation manner of the seventh aspect, the method in the eighth aspect and any possible implementation manner of the eighth aspect. Optionally, the memory and the processor can be decoupled.

[0079] In a possible design, the communication apparatus can further comprise an interface circuit, wherein the processor is configured to communicate with other apparatuses or components through the interface circuit.

[0080] In a thirteenth aspect, the present application provides a communication apparatus, comprising: one or more processors and interface circuitry configured to receive signals from other communication apparatuses and transmit signals to the processors or send signals from the processors to other communication apparatuses, and the processors are configured to implement at least one of the method in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method in the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method in the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method in the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method in the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method in the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method in the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect, through logic circuitry or executing code instructions.

[0081] In a fourteenth aspect, the present application provides a communication system, comprising at least one apparatus or device in the ninth aspect to the thirteenth aspect, so that the at least one apparatus or device performs at least one of the method in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method in the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method in the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method in the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method in the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method in the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method in the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect.

[0082] In a fifteenth aspect, the present application provides a computer readable storage medium, having instructions stored thereon, which when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform at least one of the method in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method in the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method in the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method in the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method in the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method in the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method in the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect.

[0083] In a sixteenth aspect, the present application provides a computer program product, comprising instructions which, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform at least one of the method of the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method of the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method of the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method of the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method of the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method of the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method of the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method of the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect.

[0084] In a seventeenth aspect, the present application provides a chip, comprising one or more processors (or logic circuits). Optionally, the chip can further comprise one or more communication interfaces (or interfaces) for implementing at least one of the method of the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method of the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method of the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method of the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method of the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method of the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method of the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method of the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect.

[0085] In a possible implementation, if the chip is the smallest processing unit in the whole machine, the chip can be one or more processors, or can comprise one or more processors and one or more memories, or can comprise one or more processors, one or more memories and one or more transceivers, for implementing at least one of the method of the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method of the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method of the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method of the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method of the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method of the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method of the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method of the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect.

[0086] In an eighteenth aspect, the present application provides a chip system. The chip system comprises one or more processors and one or more interfaces. Optionally, the chip system further comprises a memory for implementing at least one of the following: the method of the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect, the method of the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect, the method of the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, the method of the fourth aspect and any possible implementation of the fourth aspect, the method of the fifth aspect and any possible implementation of the fifth aspect, the method of the sixth aspect and any possible implementation of the sixth aspect, the method of the seventh aspect and any possible implementation of the seventh aspect, the method of the eighth aspect and any possible implementation of the eighth aspect. The chip system can be composed of a chip, or can comprise a chip and other discrete devices. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0087] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system architecture;

[0088] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a first communication method provided by the present application;

[0089] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a second communication method provided by the present application;

[0090] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a third communication method provided by the present application;

[0091] FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the third communication method provided by the present application applied to PDU session establishment and transmission;

[0092] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a fourth communication method provided by the present application;

[0093] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the fourth communication method provided by the present application applied to a third service scenario;

[0094] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a communication device provided by the present application;

[0095] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided by the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0096] For the convenience of understanding, the definitions of related terms involved in the present application are described in detail as follows:

[0097] System architecture: the communication method provided in the present application can be applied to the system architecture as shown in FIG. 1. For example, the system architecture shown in FIG. 1 includes a terminal side, an access network side and a core network side. Among them, the terminal side includes one or more terminals; the access network side includes one or more access network devices; the core network side includes one or more functional network elements, and the specific functional network elements are described in detail below. Among them, various devices and / or functional network elements can be connected through interfaces, and the present application is not limited. Optionally, FIG. 1 is only an example, and the present application does not limit the specific system architecture.

[0098] Among them, the communication system of the present application can include but is not limited to various radio access technology (radio access technology, RAT) communication systems, for example, it can be: Internet of things (Internet of things, IoT) system, narrowband Internet of things system (narrow band-IoT, NB-IoT), reduced capability / lightweight capability (reduced capability, RedCap) system, Internet of things non-ground network (IoT non-terrestrial network, IoT NTN), it can also be a 5th generation (5th generation, 5G, or called new radio (new radio, NR)) communication system, it can also be a transition system between long term evolution (long term evolution, LTE) communication system and 5G communication system, the transition system can also be called 4.5G communication system, of course, it can also be a future communication system, etc. The network architecture and service scenario described in the present application are used to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the present application. Those skilled in the art can know that, with the evolution of communication network architecture and the appearance of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the present application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0099] The terminal involved in the present application can also be referred to as a terminal device, which can be a device with wireless transceiving function, which can be deployed on land, including indoor or outdoor, handheld or vehicle-mounted; can also be deployed on the water surface (such as ships, etc.); can also be deployed in the air (such as airplanes, balloons and satellites, etc.). The terminal device can be a UE, wherein the UE includes a handheld device, a vehicle-mounted device, a wearable device or a computing device with wireless communication function. Exemplarily, the UE can be a mobile phone, a tablet computer or a computer with wireless transceiving function. The terminal device can also be a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal in industrial control, a wireless terminal in unmanned driving, a wireless terminal in remote medical treatment, a wireless terminal in smart power grid, a wireless terminal in smart city, a wireless terminal in smart home, etc. Optionally, the terminal in the present application can be divided into power consumption sensitive device and power consumption insensitive device according to whether it is sensitive to power consumption. For example, the mobile phone, the tablet computer or the computer with wireless transceiving function, the vehicle-mounted device, etc. belong to the power consumption insensitive device, which can be charged at any time; while the wireless terminal in smart power grid (such as smart meter, etc.), the wireless terminal in smart city (such as shared bicycle, etc.) belong to the power consumption sensitive device, which cannot be charged at any time. In the present application, the device for realizing the function of the terminal can be the terminal; or can be a device capable of supporting the terminal to realize the function, such as a chip system, which can be installed in the terminal. In the present application, the chip system can be composed of a chip, or can include the chip and other discrete devices. In the technical solutions provided in the present application, the device for realizing the function of the terminal is the terminal, and taking the UE as an example, the technical solutions provided in the present application are described.

[0100] The access network device involved in the present application includes a radio access network (RAN) device, which is mainly responsible for functions such as radio resource management, QoS management, data compression and encryption on the air interface side. The access network device can include various forms of base stations, such as macro base stations, micro base stations (also known as small stations), relay stations, access points, etc. In systems using different wireless access technologies, the names of devices with base station functions may vary, such as gNB in the 5G system, eNB or eNodeB in the LTE system, Node B in the 3rd generation (3G) system, etc. In the present application, the device for implementing the function of the network device can be a network device; it can also be a device capable of supporting the network device to implement the function, such as a chip system, which can be installed in the network device. In the technical solutions provided in the present application, the device for implementing the function of the network device is the network device, and the network device is taken as an example to describe the technical solutions provided in the present application.

[0101] The core network side of the present application involves one or more functional network elements (also known as functional entities), which can include but are not limited to: access and mobility management function (AMF) entities, session management function (SMF) entities, or user plane function (UPF) entities, user data management (UDM), etc. One or more functional entities. Among them, the main functions of AMF include managing user registration, reachability detection, SMF node selection, mobile state conversion management, etc. The main function of SMF is to control the establishment, modification and deletion of sessions, selection of user plane nodes, etc. The main function of UPF is to process user data (forwarding, receiving, charging, etc.). For example, the UPF can receive user data from a data network (DN) and forward the user data to the terminal through the access network device. The UPF can also receive user data from the terminal through the access network device and forward the user data to the DN. The UDM is responsible for managing and storing user-related data, providing authentication, authorization and user configuration functions for the network, etc.

[0102] Inactive timer of access network side: the inactivity timer of the base station side in the existing network is fixed; for example, the inactivity timer of the base station is a general configuration, which is used for the base station to start the inactivity timer and release the terminal or schedule the terminal to enter the non-connected state after the inactivity timer expires. At present, the inactivity timer of the base station cannot control the link for different mobile terminals; for example, the power consumption insensitive device is insensitive to power consumption, and a longer inactivity timer can be configured to ensure the real-time performance of data transmission; however, the power consumption sensitive device is sensitive to power consumption, and needs to start the inactivity timer in time to enter the idle state.

[0103] At present, since the inactivity timer of the base station is fixed, only one general value can be set. If the inactivity timer is set too short, it may cause the terminal to frequently establish a link, resulting in a large signaling overhead, and thus causing a signaling storm; if the inactivity timer is set too long, it may cause the terminal to consume more power.

[0104] The present application provides a kind of communication method, which can realize that access network equipment maintains corresponding inactivity timer for each terminal independently, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of terminal.

[0105] For example, FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a first communication method provided by the present application, which is realized by the interaction between the terminal and the access network device. In this method, the terminal can determine the first duration of the first timer by itself, and report the first duration to the access network device; the access network device can maintain the corresponding first timer for each terminal independently, and the method includes the following steps:

[0106] S101, the terminal determines the first duration of the first timer based on service information.

[0107] In one possible implementation, the service information includes one or more of the following: application usage duration, application usage frequency, application usage time period, application type, service type, data request size, and network allocated resource.

[0108] For example, the usage duration of the application refers to the usage duration of the application used by the user through the terminal (e.g., the user can use the application program (APP) in the mobile phone, and the mobile phone can record the usage duration of the APP used by the user in the background). Similarly, the usage frequency of the application refers to the frequency of the application used by the user through the terminal (e.g., the mobile phone can record the usage frequency of the APP used by the user every day / week in the background). The usage time period of the application refers to the common usage time period of the application used by the user through the terminal (e.g., the mobile phone can record the time period of the APP frequently used by the user every day / week in the background). For example, the type of the application can include but is not limited to real-time application (e.g., game APP, instant messaging APP, video APP, etc.), non-real-time application (e.g., background data, heartbeat running, web browsing (detecting whether the user is still browsing to evaluate whether there is subsequent data), etc.). For example, the type of the service can include but is not limited to real-time service (e.g., voice service, etc.), data service (e.g., traffic web page, etc.), signaling service (e.g., SMS, IMS signaling, etc.), etc. For example, the size of the data request refers to the data size of the service currently requested by the terminal, and the resource allocated by the network refers to the data resource size currently allocated by the network for the terminal.

[0109] In a possible implementation, based on one or more pieces of service information described above, the terminal can determine the time during which the link between the terminal and the access network device still needs to be used, and thus determine the first duration of the first timer. The first timer refers to the user inactivity timer configured by the access network device for the terminal, and the first duration refers to the timeout duration of the first timer. For example, if the first duration is exceeded after the first timer is started (i.e., the first timer is timed out), the access network device and the terminal can perform related operations.

[0110] In S102, the terminal sends information indicating the first duration, and correspondingly, the access network device receives the information indicating the first duration.

[0111] In a possible implementation, the information indicating the first duration can be the first duration. For example, the terminal sends the first duration to the access network device. Alternatively, the information indicating the first duration can be indication information of one or more information bits, and the indication information is used to indicate the first duration. For example, it is assumed that a relationship between a set of information bits and a set of first durations is predefined (e.g., when the information bit takes the value 00, the corresponding first duration is the first value, when the information bit takes the value 01, the corresponding first duration is the second value, and so on), and different bit values of the indication information can indicate different first durations.

[0112] In a possible implementation, the information for indicating the first time length can be included in UE Assistance Information. For example, the terminal sends the UE Assistance Information to the access network device, and the information includes the first time length or indication information for indicating the first time length. Optionally, the information for indicating the first time length can also be transmitted to the access network device through other uplink signaling interacting with the access network side, which is not limited in the application.

[0113] In a possible implementation, S102 can also be replaced with the following operation: the terminal can send information for indicating the first time length to the core network side (such as SMF) through a protocol data unit (PDU) session establishment / modification process, and then the core network side configures and issues the first timer. For example, the terminal sends the information for indicating the first time length to the SMF through the AMF, and the SMF configures the corresponding first timer after receiving the information. The SMF can send information of the first timer to the access network device through the AMF, and then the access network device receives the information of the first timer and configures the first timer.

[0114] S103, when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal, the access network device starts the first timer.

[0115] For example, the access network device can start the first timer when detecting that there is no data flow on the link between the terminal and the access network device. It should be noted that when there is no data flow on the link between the access network device and the terminal, the terminal can still be in a connected state (the connected state can have no flow for a period of time, but the terminal can still have data interaction with the access network device in the future), and therefore the access network device starts the first timer at this time, rather than directly releasing the link between the terminal and the access network device.

[0116] S104, the access network device releases the link between the terminal and the access network device after the first timer expires.

[0117] For example, when the access network device starts the first timer and the timing length of the first timer is greater than or equal to the first time length, the access network device can release the link between the terminal and the access network device. Optionally, the access network device can schedule the terminal to enter an inactive state (such as a radio resource control inactive (RRC inactive) state) after the first timer expires, that is, to disconnect the link between the terminal and the access network device.

[0118] Optionally, after S104, the method can further include the following steps: the access network device sends information for instructing the terminal to release the link; correspondingly, the terminal receives the information for instructing the terminal to release the link. For example, the access network device sends the information for instructing the terminal to release the link to the terminal, and after receiving the information, the terminal can release the link with the access network device. At this time, the terminal can enter a non-connected state, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0119] In this embodiment, the terminal can determine a time length (e.g., a first time length) that the terminal hopes the network needs to wait after no data transmission, and report the first time length to the access network device, thereby facilitating the access network device to determine that the timeout time length of the first timer for the terminal is the first time length, and facilitating the access network device to independently maintain the corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0120] For example, FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a second communication method provided by the present application, which is realized by the interaction between a terminal and an access network device. In this method, the access network device can independently maintain the corresponding first timer for different types of terminals, and the method includes the following steps:

[0121] S201: The terminal obtains the type of the terminal.

[0122] In a possible implementation, the type of the terminal is mainly distinguished according to whether the terminal is sensitive to power consumption. For example, the type of the terminal can include but is not limited to power consumption sensitive devices (such as shared bicycles, smart meters, and other devices that cannot be charged at any time) and power consumption insensitive devices (such as mobile phones, tablet computers, and other devices that can be charged at any time).

[0123] In a possible implementation, the terminal obtains the type of the terminal, specifically, the terminal can determine the type of the terminal based on a power consumption sensitivity level. The power consumption sensitivity level is predefined information or information received by the terminal from the access network device. For example, different levels (i.e., power consumption sensitivity levels) can be divided according to whether the terminal is sensitive to power consumption, different power consumption sensitivity levels correspond to different terminal types, and also correspond to different timer time lengths. For example, assuming that the power consumption sensitivity level is protocol predefined information, the power consumption sensitivity level and the timer time length have a predefined corresponding relationship, as shown in Table 1.

[0124] Table 1: Corresponding relationship among power consumption sensitivity level, type of terminal, and timer time length.

[0125] Therefore, based on Table 1, the terminal can determine the type of the terminal based on the sensitivity level of power consumption. Alternatively, the terminal of the first level power consumption sensitivity and the second level power consumption sensitivity described in Table 1 can be regarded as the power consumption sensitive device, and the terminal of the third level power consumption sensitivity and the fourth level power consumption sensitivity can be regarded as the power consumption insensitive device. Alternatively, Table 1 is only an example, and Table 1 can also be simplified to only include the first column and the second column; for example, assuming that the timer duration is determined by the access network device, the terminal only needs to determine the type of the terminal (i.e., the second column in Table 1) based on the sensitivity level of power consumption (i.e., the first column in Table 1).

[0126] Alternatively, before S201, the following step can also be included: the access network device sends information for indicating the sensitivity level of power consumption to the terminal. For example, if the sensitivity level of power consumption is not predefined information, the access network device can send information for indicating the sensitivity level of power consumption to the terminal, so that the terminal determines the type of the terminal based on the sensitivity level of power consumption.

[0127] Alternatively, before S201, the process of the UE initiating a connection request to enter the connected state can also be included, and the process is realized by the interaction between the terminal and the access network device. For details, reference can be made to the corresponding description in the protocol standard, which is not limited herein.

[0128] S202, the terminal sends information for indicating the type of the terminal; correspondingly, the access network device receives the information for indicating the type of the terminal.

[0129] In a possible implementation, the information for indicating the type of the terminal can be the type of the terminal; for example, the terminal sends the type of the terminal to the access network device. Alternatively, the information for indicating the type of the terminal can be one or more information bits of indication information, which is used to indicate the type of the terminal. For details, reference can be made to the example description in the information for indicating the first duration, which is not described herein again.

[0130] Alternatively, before S202, the following step can also be included: the access network device sends information for querying the type of the terminal to the terminal. For example, the access network device sends UE capability enquiry information to the terminal, which is used to request to query the type of the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the information, and thus sends the information for indicating the type of the terminal to the access network device.

[0131] S203, the access network device starts the corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal.

[0132] In a possible implementation, different terminal types correspond to different first timers, and the first timer is a timer configured in the access network device. For example, the terminal sends information indicating the type of the terminal to the access network device. The access network device can only report the type of the terminal, and can query the corresponding power consumption sensitivity level based on Table 1, so as to determine the corresponding first timer (for example, determine the timeout duration of the first timer).

[0133] In a possible implementation, the access network device starts the corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. Specifically, the access network device can determine the corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. When there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal, the access network device starts the first timer. For example, when the access network device detects that there is no data flow on the link between the terminal, the access network device can start the first timer corresponding to the type of the terminal.

[0134] S204, the access network device releases the link between the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0135] For example, when the access network device starts the first timer, and the timing duration of the first timer is greater than or equal to the timer duration corresponding to the type of the terminal, the access network device can release the link between the terminal.

[0136] Optionally, after S204, the method can further include the following steps: the access network device sends information indicating that the terminal releases the link; and correspondingly, the terminal receives the information indicating that the terminal releases the link. For example, the access network device sends information indicating that the terminal releases the link to the terminal. After receiving the information, the terminal can release the link between the terminal and the access network device. At this time, the terminal can enter a non-connected state, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0137] In this embodiment, the terminal can obtain the type of the terminal, and send information indicating the type of the terminal to the access network device, which is beneficial for the access network device to configure the corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal, thereby facilitating the access network device to independently maintain the corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0138] For example, FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a third communication method provided by the present application, and the method is implemented by a first network element. For example, the first network element can be a session management network element, or a logical module capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the session management network element. In the method, the first network element can configure different second timers for different quality of service flows. The method includes the following steps:

[0139] S301, the first network element determines the second timer.

[0140] In a possible implementation, the second timer is a timer configured in the access network device, which is started when there is no data in the quality of service flow; the second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release the DRB between the access network device and the terminal after the expiration of the second timer, the DRB being used to carry the quality of service flow. For example, the first network element can set different second timers for different quality of service flows, and the second timer is started when there is no data in the quality of service flow, and is used to trigger the access network device to release the DRB carrying the quality of service flow after the expiration of the second timer (if there is only one quality of service flow between the access network device and the terminal, the second timer triggers the access network device to release the link between the access network device and the terminal after the expiration of the second timer). Optionally, the second timer is for the granularity of the quality of service flow; for example, different quality of service flows are associated with different second timers, and the second timer is started when there is no data in the associated quality of service flow, and is used to trigger the access network device to release the DRB carrying the quality of service flow after the expiration of the second timer.

[0141] Optionally, in the implementation, the first network element determines the second timer, for example, determines the trigger condition (such as being started when there is no data in the quality of service flow) of the second timer, and determines the timing duration of the second timer, and the first network element does not configure the second timer. Optionally, the subsequent steps of the implementation correspond to S302a.

[0142] In another possible implementation, the second timer is a timer configured in the first network element, which is started when there is no data in the quality of service flow; the second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release the DRB carrying the quality of service flow after the expiration of the second timer. For specific examples, refer to the description in the previous implementation, which is not described here again.

[0143] Optionally, in the implementation, the first network element determines the second timer, for example, determines the trigger condition (such as being started when there is no data in the quality of service flow) of the second timer, and determines the timing duration of the second timer; and configures the second timer, starts the second timer and times when the first network element meets the trigger condition of the second timer, and determines whether the second timer is expired. Optionally, the subsequent steps of the implementation correspond to S302b.

[0144] S302a, the first network element sends information of the second timer.

[0145] For example, the first network element can send, to the access network device through the AMF, information of the second timer, which can include but is not limited to a trigger condition of the second timer, a timing duration of the second timer, etc. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the information of the second timer and configures the corresponding second timer, which is beneficial to the access network device to perform subsequent processes (for example, the access network device can start the corresponding second timer when there is no data in the quality of service flow, and release the link between the terminal and the access network device after the second timer expires).

[0146] S302b, the first network element starts the second timer when there is no data in the quality of service flow, and sends information indicating that the access network device releases the link between the terminal and the access network device after the second timer expires.

[0147] For example, the first network element determines whether the trigger condition of the second timer is met, and starts the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow when detecting that there is no data in the QoS flow. Assuming that there is only one QoS flow in the network, if the second timer expires, the first network element can send, to the access network device through the AMF, information indicating that the access network device releases the link between the terminal and the access network device. Alternatively, assuming that there are multiple QoS flows in the network, when multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple QoS flows all expire, the first network element can send, to the access network device through the AMF, information indicating that the access network device releases the link between the terminal and the access network device.

[0148] In this embodiment, the first network element can determine the second timer, and the first network element itself configures the second timer or sends information of the second timer to the access network device, which is beneficial to the access network device to configure the second timer. The second timer is related to the QoS flow, for example, the second timer is started when there is no data in the QoS flow. Moreover, the second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release the link between the terminal and the access network device after expiration, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0149] In an example, FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a third communication method provided by the present application applied to PDU session establishment and transmission. The flowchart can be realized by interaction between the UE, the RAN, the AMF and the SMF, and includes the following steps:

[0150] S401, the UE sends a PDU session establishment request; correspondingly, the AMF receives the PDU session establishment request.

[0151] For example, in the PDU session establishment process, the UE can send a PDU session establishment request to the AMF, so that the AMF can forward the PDU session establishment request to the SMF, thereby requesting the SMF to establish a PDU session.

[0152] S402, the AMF sends a create session management context request; correspondingly, the SMF receives the create session management context request.

[0153] For example, the AMF can send a create session management context request (create SM (session management) context request) to the SMF, which is used to request the SMF to establish the context information of the SM.

[0154] S403, the SMF creates the context information of the SM for the PDU Session.

[0155] For example, the SMF creates the context information of the SM for the PDU session requested by the UE, which can be that the SMF can associate different second timers with different QoS flows in the description of the QoS rule (QoS rule), and the second timer is started after detecting that there is no data transmission in the QoS flow. Moreover, after the different second timers expire, the access network device can be triggered to release the link carrying the QoS flow. Wherein, the related description of the second timer can refer to the corresponding description in the embodiment of FIG. 4, which will not be described here.

[0156] In a possible implementation, the SMF can associate different second timers with different QoS flows, which can be that the SMF determines the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow based on the service characteristics of the QoS flow. For example, it is assumed that the service characteristics of different QoS flows are predefined in the protocol, which can correspond to different timer durations. For example, Table 2 is a correspondence between the service characteristics of a QoS flow and the timer duration.

[0157] Table 2: Correspondence between the service characteristics of a QoS flow and the timer duration.

[0158] Therefore, based on Table 2, the SMF can associate different second timers with different QoS flow streams, and determine the timeout duration of the second timer.

[0159] In a possible implementation, the SMF can associate different second timers with different QoS flow streams, specifically, the SMF receives a first value of the second timer from the UE, and determines the second timer based on the first value and a local policy. For example, the UE can carry the first value (such as a recommended value) in the PDU session establishment request, and indicate the first value to the core network side when sending the PDU session establishment request. Correspondingly, the SMF receives the first value, and determines the timeout duration of the second timer based on the first value and the local policy (such as whether the network authorizes the first value reported by the UE); for example, if the network authorizes the first value, the SMF can determine that the timeout duration of the second timer is the first value. Optionally, the UE can also carry the first value in the registration process; for example, the UE carries the link release time required by different services (i.e., the first value of different services) in the registration process to the AMF when initiating the registration process, and the AMF can store the first value of different services in the service context. When the UE initiates the PDU session establishment request, the AMF can send the stored first value of different services (equivalent to the first value associated with the QoS flow stream carrying different services) to the SMF through the PDU session establishment process, and the SMF can determine the timeout duration of the second timer associated with the QoS flow stream based on the local policy and the first value.

[0160] S404, the SMF sends a create session management context response; correspondingly, the AMF receives the create session management context response.

[0161] S405, the AMF sends PDU establishment acceptance information; correspondingly, the UE receives the PDU establishment acceptance information.

[0162] Specifically, S404 and S405 represent that the PDU session is activated successfully, and the UE is notified through the two steps, and the specific implementation is not limited in the present application.

[0163] S406, the SMF sends information of the second timer; correspondingly, the AMF receives the information of the second timer.

[0164] In a possible implementation, in S404, after the SMF associates different second timers with different QoS flows, the information of the second timers is stored in the SMF, because there can be no QoS flow in the network (for example, there is no data flow between the UE and the base station when no service is initiated), and the different second timers take effect when the UE or the base station initiates a service (for example, activates a user plane), and the SMF sends the different second timers to the base station through the AMF when the user plane is activated. For example, when the user plane is activated, the SMF can send a request for creating a user plane (for example, a packet triggers an N1N2MessageTransferRequest) to the AMF, and the request includes information of a QoS flow corresponding to the user plane to be activated and information of a second timer corresponding to the QoS flow.

[0165] In S407, the AMF sends the information of the second timer, and correspondingly, the RAN receives the information of the second timer.

[0166] For example, the AMF can send a packet-triggered DRB establishment request (PDU resource setup request) to the RAN, and the request includes information of a QoS flow and information of a second timer corresponding to the QoS flow.

[0167] Optionally, S406 and S407 can be optional steps. For example, the SMF can not send the information of the second timer, but the SMF configures the second timer. In a possible implementation, when the core network (for example, the UPF) detects that there is no data on a service data flow (SDF), the UPF can send information indicating that there is no data transmission in the SDF to the SMF, and the SMF can start a corresponding second timer based on the indication, and instruct the RAN to release the link after the second timer expires. In another possible implementation, when the base station detects that there is no data on the SDF, the base station can send information indicating that there is no data transmission in the SDF to the SMF through the AMF, and the SMF can start a corresponding second timer based on the indication, and instruct the RAN to release the link after the second timer expires. The SDF is used to transmit the QoS flow.

[0168] In S408, the RAN allocates the DRB through RRC reconfiguration.

[0169] For example, the RAN sends RRC reconfiguration information to the UE, and the RRC reconfiguration is used to reconfigure information of a user plane of the UE.

[0170] S409, the RAN starts a second timer corresponding to the QoS flow when there is no data in the QoS flow, and releases the corresponding link after the second timer expires.

[0171] For example, when the RAN detects that there is no data on one or more QoS flows, it starts a second timer corresponding to the one or more QoS flows; until all second timers corresponding to one or more QoS flows between the RAN and the UE expire, the RAN releases the air interface link with the UE and releases the logical link with the core network. It can be understood that different QoS flows are associated with different second timers, and the expiration time of different second timers can also be different; for example, assuming that there are currently two QoS flows (such as QoS flow #1 and QoS flow #2), QoS flow #1 is associated with second timer #1, and QoS flow #2 is associated with second timer #2; when the RAN detects that there is no data on QoS flow #1, it starts second timer #1, and releases DRB #1 associated with QoS flow #1 after second timer #1 expires; when the RAN detects that there is no data on QoS flow #2, it starts second timer #2, and releases DRB #2 associated with QoS flow #2 after second timer #2 expires; then, when the RAN detects that DRB #1 and DRB #2 are released, the RAN releases the air interface link with the UE (there is usually only one air interface link between the RAN and the UE, which can include one or more DRBs), and releases the logical link with the core network.

[0172] S410, the RAN sends information indicating that the UE releases the link; correspondingly, the UE receives the information indicating that the UE releases the link.

[0173] For example, the RAN sends information indicating that the terminal releases the link to the UE, and the UE can release the link with the access network device after receiving the information. At this time, the UE can enter a non-connected state, thereby reducing power consumption.

[0174] For example, FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a fourth communication method provided by the present application, which is implemented by an access network device. In this method, the access network device can configure different third timers for different services, and the method includes the following steps:

[0175] S501, the access network device determines the third timer associated with the service and the start condition of the third timer based on the service type.

[0176] In the above embodiments, the access network device can configure different third timers for different services, and the starting conditions of the different third timers can also be different. In a possible implementation, the access network device can identify the service type based on the QoS flow, so as to identify the service type. For example, the base station can identify the service type based on the service attribute of the PDU initiated by the UE; or the base station can identify the service type based on the attribute of the radio bearer allocated for the service initiated by the UE; or the base station can identify the service type based on the network slice (different types of network slices can map different service types).

[0177] In a possible implementation, the access network device can determine the third timer associated with the service based on the service type. For example, referring to Table 2 and the corresponding description in the foregoing, the access network device can identify the service type based on the QoS flow, for example, the service type is real-time service (such as voice service), data service (such as traffic webpage), and signaling service (such as SMS and IMS signaling). Different service types can correspond to service characteristics of the QoS flow (for example, the voice service corresponds to the QoS flow used to carry the voice service, or the traffic webpage service corresponds to the QoS flow used to carry the traffic webpage service). The access network device can query Table 2 to obtain the timeout duration of the third timer associated with the service based on the service characteristics of the QoS flow corresponding to different service types.

[0178] In a possible implementation, the service type includes first service, and the starting condition of the third timer associated with the first service is that the access network device detects release of a dedicated bearer of the first service. For example, the first service refers to real-time service, which can include but is not limited to voice service and video service. The real-time service usually establishes a dedicated bearer. If the dedicated bearer is released, it means that the service ends. Therefore, the access network device can configure the starting condition of the third timer associated with the first service as the access network device detecting release of the dedicated bearer of the first service.

[0179] In a possible implementation, the service type includes second service, and the starting condition of the third timer associated with the second service is that the access network device detects no data transmission of the second service. For example, the second service refers to data service, which can include but is not limited to browsing a webpage and data traffic transmission. The end of the data service can be indicated by no data transmission of the service. Therefore, the access network device can configure the starting condition of the third timer associated with the second service as the access network device detecting no data transmission of the second service.

[0180] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a third service; and the starting condition of the third timer associated with the third service is that the access network device receives a starting indication of the third service or receives a stopping indication of the third service. For example, the third service refers to a signaling service, which can include, but is not limited to, an SMS, an IMS, an LTE positioning protocol (LPP), a location service (LCS), and the like. The third timer associated with the third service is related to the end or start of the signaling service. For example, the signaling service can be identified by a starting indication that the service has started, or can be identified by a stopping indication that the service has ended. The access network device can configure the starting condition of the third timer associated with the third service as that the access network device receives the starting indication of the third service or receives the stopping indication of the third service.

[0181] S502. The access network device starts the third timer when the starting condition is met.

[0182] For example, if the service type is the first service, the access network device can start the third timer associated with the first service when detecting that the dedicated bearer of the first service is released. For another example, if the service type is the second service, the access network device can start the third timer associated with the second service when detecting that the second service has no data transmission. For yet another example, if the service type is the third service, the access network device can start the third timer associated with the third service when receiving the starting indication of the third service or the stopping indication of the third service.

[0183] S503. The access network device releases the link between the access network device and the terminal after the third timer expires.

[0184] In a possible implementation, the access network device can release the link carrying the first service after the third timer associated with the first service expires. If there is no other service between the access network device and the terminal, the access network device can release the air interface link between the access network device and the terminal.

[0185] In a possible implementation, the access network device can release the link carrying the second service after the third timer associated with the second service expires. If there is no other service between the access network device and the terminal, the access network device can release the air interface link between the access network device and the terminal.

[0186] In a possible implementation, after the third timer corresponding to the third service expires, the access network device can release a link carrying the third service. If there is no other service between the access network device and the terminal, the access network device can release an air interface link with the terminal; or if the access network device senses no other signaling procedure, the access network device can release the air interface link with the terminal.

[0187] In this embodiment, the access network device can configure third timers for different service types (such as real-time service, data service, and signaling service) and determine the starting conditions of the third timers for different service types. When the corresponding starting condition is met, the access network device starts the corresponding third timer, and releases the link with the terminal after the third timer expires, which is beneficial to reducing the power consumption of the terminal.

[0188] In an example, FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a fourth communication method provided by the present application applied to a third service scenario. The flow can be implemented by interaction among a UE, a RAN, and a short message service function (SMSF) entity, and includes the following steps:

[0189] S601. The UE sends a link establishment request of a third service; and correspondingly, the RAN receives the link establishment request of the third service.

[0190] For example, the UE sends a link establishment request of an SMS service to the RAN, and the link establishment request is used to request to establish a link with the RAN for implementing the SMS service.

[0191] S602a. The RAN starts a third timer corresponding to the third service, and releases a link corresponding to the third service after the third timer expires.

[0192] S603a. Data information of the third service is transmitted.

[0193] For example, the RAN receives the link establishment request of the SMS service, which is equivalent to receiving a starting indication of the SMS service. Then, the RAN can start a third timer corresponding to the SMS service, and release a link corresponding to the SMS service after the third timer corresponding to the SMS service expires. In this process, the UE and the RAN can transmit SMS data information, and the RAN and the SMSF can also transmit the SMS data information. Optionally, if there is no other service between the UE and the RAN after the third timer corresponding to the SMS service expires, the RAN releases an air interface link with the UE.

[0194] S602b. Data information of the third service is transmitted.

[0195] For example, the SMS data information can be transmitted between the UE and the RAN, and the SMS data information can also be transmitted between the RAN and the SMSF.

[0196] S603b, the SMSF sends third service flow end information; correspondingly, the RAN receives the third service flow end information.

[0197] Optionally, in S603b, the UE can also send the third service flow end information to the RAN.

[0198] S604b, the RAN starts a third timer corresponding to the third service, and releases the link corresponding to the third service after the third timer expires.

[0199] For example, the RAN receives the SMS service end information, which is equivalent to receiving the stop indication of the SMS service, and then the RAN can start a third timer corresponding to the SMS service, and release the link corresponding to the SMS service after the third timer corresponding to the SMS service expires. Optionally, if there is no other service between the UE and the RAN after the third timer corresponding to the SMS service expires, or the RAN perceives that there is no other signaling flow, the RAN releases the air interface link with the UE.

[0200] Optionally, the above S602a and S603a are parallel to the scheme described in S602b-S604b, and one of them can be executed; for example, if S602a and S603a are executed, S602b-S604b can not be executed; if S602b-S604b are executed, S602a and S603a can not be executed.

[0201] S605, the RAN sends information for indicating the UE to release the link; correspondingly, the UE receives the information for indicating the UE to release the link.

[0202] For example, the RAN sends information for indicating the terminal to release the link to the UE, and after the UE receives the information, the UE can release the link with the access network device. At this time, the UE can enter the non-connected state, thereby reducing the power consumption.

[0203] It can be understood that, in order to realize the functions in the above embodiments, the base station and the terminal include the corresponding hardware structure and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should easily realize that, in combination with the units and method steps of the examples described in the embodiments disclosed in the present application, the present application can be realized in the form of hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a certain function is executed in the form of hardware or computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0204] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 are schematic diagrams of communication apparatuses provided in the present application. The communication apparatuses can be used to implement the functions of the first network element, the terminal, or the first satellite in the above-mentioned method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects possessed by the above-mentioned method embodiments.

[0205] As shown in FIG. 8, the communication apparatus 800 includes a processing unit 810 and a transceiver unit 820. The communication apparatus 800 is used to implement the functions of the terminal, the access network device, or the first network element in the above-mentioned method embodiments shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 7. Optionally, the transceiver unit 820 includes a sending unit and a receiving unit, and the transceiver unit 820 can also be referred to as a communication unit.

[0206] When the communication apparatus 800 is used to implement the functions of the terminal in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine a first time length of a first timer based on service information. The transceiver unit 820 is configured to send, to the access network device, information indicating the first time length. The first timer is a timer configured in the access network device and is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device. The first timer is used to trigger the access network device to release a link with the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0207] In a possible implementation, the transceiver unit 820 is configured to receive information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

[0208] In a possible implementation, the service information includes one or more of the following: a use time length of an application, a use frequency of the application, a use time period of the application, a type of the application, a service type, a size of a data request, and a resource allocated by a network.

[0209] In a possible implementation, the information indicating the first time length is terminal assistance information.

[0210] It can be seen that, when the communication apparatus 800 is used to implement the functions of the terminal in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the communication apparatus 800 can determine, by itself, a time length (such as the first time length) that the terminal hopes the network needs to wait after there is no data transmission, and report the first time length to the access network device, thereby facilitating the access network device to determine that the timeout time length of the first timer for the terminal is the first time length, and facilitating the access network device to independently maintain a corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0211] When the communication apparatus 800 is used to implement the functions of the access network device in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the transceiver unit 820 is configured to receive information indicating a first time length of a first timer. The processing unit 810 is configured to start the first timer when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal. The processing unit 810 is further configured to release a link with the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0212] In a possible implementation, the transceiver 820 is configured to send, to the terminal, information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

[0213] It can be seen that, when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the terminal in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the communication apparatus 800 can obtain the type of the terminal (for example, determine the type of the terminal based on predefined information or determine the type of the terminal based on information from the access network device), and send, to the access network device, information indicating the type of the terminal, which is beneficial for the access network device to configure a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal, thereby being beneficial for the access network device to independently maintain a corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0214] When the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the terminal in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the processing unit 810 is configured to obtain the type of the terminal. The transceiver 820 is configured to send, to the access network device, information indicating the type of the terminal, different types of terminals corresponding to different first timers. The first timer is a timer configured in the access network device, and is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device. The first timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release the link with the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0215] In a possible implementation, the transceiver 820 is configured to receive information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

[0216] In a possible implementation, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine the type of the terminal based on a power consumption sensitivity level. The power consumption sensitivity level is predefined information or information received by the terminal from the access network device.

[0217] It can be seen that, when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the terminal in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the communication apparatus 800 can obtain the type of the terminal (for example, determine the type of the terminal based on predefined information or determine the type of the terminal based on information from the access network device), and send, to the access network device, information indicating the type of the terminal, which is beneficial for the access network device to configure a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal, thereby being beneficial for the access network device to independently maintain a corresponding first timer for each terminal.

[0218] When the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the terminal in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the transceiver 820 is configured to receive information indicating the type of the terminal; different types of terminals correspond to different first timers. The processing unit 810 is configured to start a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. The processing unit 810 is further configured to release the link with the terminal after the first timer expires.

[0219] In a possible implementation, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal. The processing unit 810 is further configured to start the first timer when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal.

[0220] In a possible implementation, the type of the terminal is determined based on a power consumption sensitivity level; the power consumption sensitivity level is predefined information.

[0221] In a possible implementation, the transceiver 820 is configured to send, to the terminal, information indicating the power consumption sensitivity level.

[0222] It can be seen that, when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the access network device in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the communication apparatus 800 can receive the type of the terminal, and start a first timer corresponding to the type of the terminal based on the type of the terminal, thereby implementing that the access network device independently maintains a corresponding first timer for different types of terminals.

[0223] When the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the first network element in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine a second timer; the second timer is a timer configured in the access network device, and is started when there is no data in a QoS flow; the second timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release a DRB carrying the QoS flow after timeout. The transceiver 820 is configured to send information of the second timer.

[0224] In a possible implementation, when the link carries multiple QoS flows, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple QoS flows. The transceiver 820 is configured to send information indicating that the access network device releases the link between the access network device and the terminal after all the multiple second timers time out.

[0225] In a possible implementation, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine the second timer corresponding to the QoS flow based on a service characteristic of the QoS flow.

[0226] In a possible implementation, the transceiver 820 is configured to receive a first value of the second timer from the terminal. The processing unit 810 is configured to determine the second timer based on the first value and a local policy.

[0227] It can be seen that, when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the first network element in the method embodiment shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the communication apparatus 800 can determine a second timer, and send information of the second timer to the access network device, which is beneficial for the access network device to configure the second timer. The second timer is related to a QoS flow, for example, the second timer is started when there is no data in the QoS flow. The second timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release a DRB carrying the QoS flow after timeout, thereby being beneficial for the access network device to release a link between the access network device and the terminal, and being beneficial for reducing power consumption of the terminal.

[0228] When the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the first network element in the method embodiments shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine a second timer, the second timer is started when there is no data in the quality of service flow, and the second timer is configured to trigger the access network device to release the DRB carrying the quality of service flow after the second timer expires. The processing unit 810 is further configured to start the second timer when there is no data in the quality of service flow. The transceiver unit 820 is configured to send information indicating the access network device to release the DRB carrying the quality of service flow after the second timer expires.

[0229] In a possible implementation, when the link carries multiple quality of service flows, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple quality of service flows. The transceiver unit 820 is configured to send information indicating the access network device to release the link between the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire.

[0230] In a possible implementation, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine the second timer corresponding to the quality of service flow based on the service characteristics of the quality of service flow.

[0231] In a possible implementation, the transceiver unit 820 is configured to receive a first value of the second timer from the terminal. The processing unit 810 is configured to determine the second timer based on the first value and a local policy.

[0232] It can be seen that, when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the first network element in the method embodiments shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the communication apparatus 800 can configure a second timer, the second timer is related to a quality of service flow, for example, the second timer is started when there is no data in the quality of service flow. Moreover, if the first network element judges that the second timer expires, the first network element can indicate the access network device to release the link between the terminal, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0233] When the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the access network device in the method embodiments shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the transceiver unit 820 is configured to receive information of a second timer. The processing unit 810 is configured to start the second timer when there is no data in a quality of service flow corresponding to the second timer. The processing unit 810 is further configured to release a link between the terminal after the second timer expires, the link carries the quality of service flow.

[0234] In a possible implementation, when the link carries multiple quality of service flows, the transceiver unit 820 is configured to receive information of multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple quality of service flows. The processing unit 810 is configured to release the link between the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire.

[0235] It can be seen that when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the access network device in the method embodiments shown in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, the communication apparatus 800 can receive the information of the second timer, so as to configure the second timer for different QoS flows. Moreover, the communication apparatus 800 starts the second timer when there is no data in the QoS flow corresponding to the second timer, and releases the link with the terminal after the second timer expires, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0236] When the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the access network device in the method embodiments shown in FIG. 6 or FIG. 7, the processing unit 810 is configured to determine a third timer associated with a service and a starting condition of the third timer based on a service type. The processing unit 810 is further configured to start the third timer when the starting condition is met. The processing unit 810 is further configured to release a link with a terminal after the third timer expires, the link carrying the service.

[0237] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a first service. The starting condition of the third timer associated with the first service is that the access network device detects release of a dedicated bearer of the first service.

[0238] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a second service. The starting condition of the third timer associated with the second service is that the access network device detects that there is no data transmission of the second service.

[0239] In a possible implementation, the service type includes a third service. The starting condition of the third timer associated with the third service is that the access network device receives a starting indication of the third service or receives a stopping indication of the third service.

[0240] It can be seen that when the communication apparatus 800 is configured to implement the function of the access network device in the method embodiments shown in FIG. 6 or FIG. 7, the communication apparatus 800 can configure the third timer for different service types (such as real-time service, data service, signaling service, etc.) and determine the starting condition of the third timer for different service types. When the corresponding starting condition is met, the access network device starts the corresponding third timer, and releases the link with the terminal after the third timer expires, which is beneficial to reduce the power consumption of the terminal.

[0241] Optionally, more detailed descriptions of the processing unit 810 and the transceiver unit 820 can be referred to the descriptions of the method embodiments shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 7.

[0242] As shown in FIG. 9, the communication apparatus 900 includes at least one processor 910 and interface circuit 920. The at least one processor 910 and the interface circuit 920 are coupled to each other. It can be understood that the interface circuit 920 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication apparatus 900 can further include a memory 930 for storing instructions executed by the at least one processor 910 or storing input data required by the at least one processor 910 for running instructions or storing data generated by the at least one processor 910 after running instructions. Sometimes, the interface circuit 920 can also be understood as a part of the at least one processor 910, and in this case, the communication apparatus 900 includes the at least one processor 910. Optionally, the transceiver includes a transmitter and a receiver.

[0243] When the communication apparatus 900 is used to implement the method embodiments shown in FIGs. 2 to 7, the at least one processor 910 is configured to implement the functions of the processing unit 810, and the interface circuit 920 is configured to implement the functions of the transceiver unit 820.

[0244] The transceiver provides a communication interface or means for communicating with various other apparatuses over wireless transmission media. The transceiver can be coupled to an antenna array, and the transceiver and the antenna array can be used together to communicate with a corresponding network type. The at least one interface (e.g., network interface and / or user interface) provides a communication interface or means for communicating over an internal bus or via external transmission media.

[0245] The processor is responsible for managing the bus and general processing, including the execution of software stored on the computer-readable medium. The software, when executed by the processor, causes the processing system to perform the various functions described below for any particular apparatus. The functions of the processor and the memory and the computer-readable medium can be implemented as coded instructions of the software, which can be stored on the computer-readable medium. The functions of the processor and the memory and the computer-readable medium can be: encoding, decoding, rate matching, de-rate matching, scrambling, de-scrambling, modulating, demodulating, layer mapping, fast Fourier transform (FFT), inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT), inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT), precoding, resource element (RE) mapping, channel equalization, de-RE mapping, digital beam forming (BF), adding CP, removing CP, etc.

[0246] In the present application, the sending of information from entity A to entity B can be directly from A to B, or indirectly from A to B via other entities. Similarly, the receiving of information from entity A by entity B can be directly from A to B, or indirectly from A to B via other entities. The entities A and B can be RAN nodes or terminals, or modules within RAN nodes or terminals. The sending and receiving of information can be between RAN nodes and terminals, e.g., between base stations and terminals; the sending and receiving of information can also be between two RAN nodes, e.g., between a CU and a DU; the sending and receiving of information can also be between different modules within one apparatus, e.g., between a terminal chip and other modules of the terminal, or between a base station chip and other modules of the base station.

[0247] In other words, the sending and receiving can be between devices, e.g., between network devices and terminal devices, or within devices, e.g., between components, modules, chips, software modules or hardware modules within a device via buses, wires or interfaces.

[0248] It can be understood that the information can be processed, e.g., encoded and modulated, between the source and the destination of the information, and the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions can be similarly understood in the present application, and will not be repeated here.

[0249] The embodiments of the present application also provide a communication system, which includes one or more of a terminal, an access network device or a first network element. The first network element is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the first network element in the foregoing embodiments. The terminal is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the terminal in the foregoing embodiments. The access network device is configured to perform all or part of the steps performed by the access network device in the foregoing embodiments.

[0250] The present application provides a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable storage medium stores a program or instructions. When the program or instructions are run on a computer, the computer is caused to perform the communication method in the embodiments shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 7.

[0251] The present application provides a computer program product. The computer program product includes instructions. When the instructions are run on a computer, the computer is caused to perform the communication method in the embodiments shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 7.

[0252] The application provides a chip or a chip system, which comprises at least one processor and at least one interface, the at least one interface and the at least one processor are interconnected through a line, and the at least one processor is used for running a computer program or an instruction to execute a communication method in the embodiments as shown in FIG. 2 to FIG. 7.

[0253] The interface in the chip can be an input / output interface, a pin or a circuit, etc.

[0254] The chip system can be an SOC or a baseband chip, etc., wherein the baseband chip can comprise a processor, a channel encoder, a digital signal processor, a modem and an interface module, etc.

[0255] In a possible implementation, the chip or the chip system described above in the application further comprises at least one memory, and the at least one memory stores an instruction. The at least one memory can be a storage unit inside the chip, for example, a register, a cache, etc., or a storage unit of the chip (for example, a read-only memory, a random access memory, etc.).

[0256] In a possible implementation, the architecture of the chip provided by the application comprises a CU, a DU and a RU, the CU is a platform for performing layer 2 (L2) and layer 3 (L3) functions, midhaul and backhaul interfaces are used to carry traffic between the CU and the DU and between the CU and a core network. The DU performs layer 1 (L1) and part of L2 functions, and the RU performs L1 calculation and RF digital part functions; front haul and backhaul interfaces are used to carry traffic between the RU and the DU and between the CU and the DU. The integrated DU comprises the functions of the DU and the RU described above.

[0257] The CU / DU hardware comprises a chassis platform, a mainboard, peripheral devices and cooling devices. The mainboard contains a processing unit, a memory, an internal I / O interface and an external connection port. The hardware accelerator design has an interface, and the hardware function components comprise storage of software, hardware and system debugging interfaces, and a single-board management controller.

[0258] A DU system is typically implemented using a multi-core processor and one or more hardware accelerators. Part of the DU protocol stack can be implemented in software running on the multi-core processor, compute-intensive L1 and L2 functions can be offloaded to FPGA / GPU-based hardware accelerators; or all L1 functions are offloaded to FPGA / GPU-based hardware accelerators, while other protocol stack contents are implemented in software running on the processor; or the entire protocol stack is implemented in software running on the processor. The hardware accelerators are supported by interconnection with x86 or non-x86 processors, and the accelerators have a multi-lane PCIe interface to the central processing unit (CPU) and are externally connected through GbE.

[0259] The RU includes three parts: an O-RAN processing unit (OPU) receives eCPRI frames from the O-RAN fronthaul and performs the fronthaul interface, the lowest layer L1 (encoding, scrambling, modulation, layer mapping, precoding), synchronization, beamforming, and resource unit mapping. The OPU can be implemented as a CPU, FPGA, or application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The digital processing unit (DPU) of the O-RU performs synchronization, digital down converters (DDC) in the UL, digital up converters (DUC) in the DL, etc., to improve power amplifier efficiency by reducing the peak to average power ratio (PAPR) / adjacent channel leakage ratio (ACLR) of the RF front end; the DPU can be implemented as an FPGA or ASIC. The RF processing unit of the O-RU includes transceiver modules, up / down converters, power amplifiers (PAs), low noise amplifiers (LNAs), transmit / receive (Tx / Rx) filters. All conversions between the analog and digital domains (such as digital to analog converters (DACs) and analog-to-digital converters (ADCs)). Note that the physical and logical partitions within the RF processing unit do not require specific boundaries.

[0260] The steps of the methods in the embodiments of the present application can be implemented in hardware, or in software that can be executed by a processor. The software instructions can be composed of respective software modules, which can be stored in a random access memory, a flash memory, a read-only memory, a programmable read-only memory, an erasable programmable read-only memory, an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, a register, a hard disk, a mobile hard disk, a CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium well known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to the processor, so that the processor can read information from, and write information to, the storage medium. The storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and the storage medium can be located in an ASIC. The ASIC can be located in a base station or a terminal. The processor and the storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the base station or the terminal.

[0261] In the above embodiments, the methods can be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, the methods can be implemented in whole or in part in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When loaded and executed by a computer, the computer programs or instructions perform the processes or functions described in the embodiments of the present application. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a user equipment, or other programmable apparatus. The computer programs or instructions 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 or instructions can be transferred from one website site, computer, server, or data center to another website site, computer, server, or data center through a wired or wireless manner. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer or a data storage device such as a server, data center, etc. that integrates one or more available media. The available media can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape; an optical medium, such as a digital video disc; or a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state disk. The computer-readable storage medium can be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or can include both volatile and non-volatile storage media.

[0262] In the various embodiments of the present application, the terms and / or descriptions of different embodiments are consistent and can be referred to each other if there is no special description and logical conflict. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationship.

[0263] In the present application, "at least one" means one or more, "multiple" means two or more. "And / or" describes the association relationship of the associated objects, which means that there can be three kinds of relationships, for example, A and / or B, which can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist together, B exists alone, where A, B can be singular or plural. In the textual description of the present application, the character " / ", generally indicates that the associated objects before and after are in an "or" relationship; in the formula of the present application, the character " / ", indicates that the associated objects before and after are in a "division" relationship. "Including at least one of A, B and C" can mean: including A; including B; including C; including A and B; including A and C; including B and C; including A, B and C.

[0264] In the present application, "first", "second" and the like can be used to distinguish functionally identical or similar technical features. The "first", "second" and the like do not limit the quantity and execution order, and the "first", "second" and the like do not necessarily mean different.

[0265] In the present application, "exemplary" or "for example" is used to represent examples, illustrations or descriptions, and any embodiment or design scheme described as "exemplary" or "for example" should not be interpreted as more preferred or more advantageous than other embodiments or design schemes. The use of "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concept in a specific way, for easy understanding.

[0266] It can be understood that in the present application, "when", "when", "when" and "if" all refer to the corresponding processing under certain objective circumstances, not limited by time, and do not require judgment actions when implemented, nor does it mean that there are other limitations.

[0267] It can be understood that some optional features in the embodiments of the present application can be implemented independently in some scenarios without relying on other features, such as the scheme currently based on, to solve the corresponding technical problems and achieve the corresponding effects. Also, in some scenarios, it can be combined with other features according to demand. Correspondingly, the devices given in the embodiments of the present application can also realize these features or functions, which will not be described here.

[0268] In the embodiments of the present application, the indication can include direct indication and indirect indication, and can also include explicit indication and implicit indication. The information indicated by certain information (indication information described below) is referred to as to-be-indicated information. In the implementation process, there are many ways to indicate the to-be-indicated information, for example but not limited to, the to-be-indicated information can be directly indicated, such as the to-be-indicated information itself or an index of the to-be-indicated information. The to-be-indicated information can also be indirectly indicated by indicating other information, where the other information and the to-be-indicated information have an association relationship. The to-be-indicated information can also be indicated only by a part of the to-be-indicated information, and the other part of the to-be-indicated information is known or agreed in advance. For example, the indication of a specific information can be achieved by means of the arrangement order of each information agreed in advance (for example, protocol predefined), thereby reducing the indication overhead to a certain extent. The specific manner of indication is not limited in the present application. It can be understood that, for the sender of the indication information, the indication information can be used to indicate the to-be-indicated information, and for the receiver of the indication information, the indication information can be used to determine the to-be-indicated information.

[0269] It can be understood that the various numbers involved in the embodiments of the present application are only for convenient differentiation, and do not limit the scope of the embodiments of the present application. The size of the serial number of each process does not mean the execution order, and the execution order of each process should be determined according to its function and inherent logic.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method comprises: The terminal determines a first duration of a first timer based on service information; The terminal sends information indicating the first duration to an access network device; the first timer is a timer configured in the access network device, which is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device; the first timer is used to trigger the access network device to release a link with the terminal after timeout.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises: The terminal receives information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The service information comprises one or more of the following: usage duration of an application, usage frequency of an application, usage time period of an application, type of an application, service type, size of a data request, and network allocated resource.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The information indicating the first duration is terminal assistance information.

5. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method comprises: The access network device receives information indicating a first duration of a first timer; The access network device starts the first timer when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal; The access network device releases a link with the terminal after timeout of the first timer.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, The method further comprises: The access network device sends information indicating that the terminal releases the link to the terminal.

7. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method comprises: The terminal obtains a type of the terminal; The terminal sends information indicating the type of the terminal to an access network device; different terminal types correspond to different first timers; the first timer is a timer configured in the access network device, which is started when there is no data transmission between the terminal and the access network device; the first timer is used to trigger the access network device to release a link with the terminal after timeout.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, The method further comprises: The terminal receives information indicating that the terminal releases the link.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein, The terminal obtains the type of the terminal, comprising: The terminal determines the type of the terminal based on a power consumption sensitivity level; The power consumption sensitivity level is predefined information or information received by the terminal from the access network device.

10. A communication method characterized by comprising: The method comprises: The access network device receives information indicating a type of a terminal; different terminal types correspond to different first timers; The access network device starts a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal; The access network device releases a link with the terminal after timeout of the first timer.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, The access network device starts a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal, comprising: The access network device determines a corresponding first timer based on the type of the terminal; The access network device starts the first timer when there is no data transmission between the access network device and the terminal.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The type of the terminal is determined based on a power consumption sensitivity level; the power consumption sensitivity level is predefined information.

13. The method of claim 10 or 11, wherein, Before the access network device receives information indicating a type of a terminal, the method further comprises: The access network device sends information indicating a power consumption sensitivity level to the terminal.

14. A communication method, comprising: The method comprises: The first network element determines a second timer; the second timer is a timer configured in the access network device, which is started when there is no data in a quality of service flow; the second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release a data radio bearer carrying the quality of service flow after the second timer expires; The first network element sends information of the second timer.

15. A method of communication, comprising: The method comprises: The first network element determines a second timer, which is started when there is no data in a quality of service flow; the second timer is used to trigger the access network device to release a data radio bearer carrying the quality of service flow after the second timer expires; The first network element starts the second timer when there is no data in the quality of service flow; The first network element sends information indicating the access network device to release a data radio bearer carrying the quality of service flow after the second timer expires.

16. The method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that The first network element determines a second timer, comprising: When the link carries multiple quality of service flows, the first network element determines multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple quality of service flows; The first network element sends information indicating the access network device to release a data radio bearer carrying the quality of service flow after the second timer expires, comprising: The first network element sends information indicating the access network device to release the link between the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire.

17. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein, The first network element determines a second timer, comprising: The first network element determines a second timer corresponding to a quality of service flow based on a service characteristic of the quality of service flow.

18. The method of claim 14 or 15, wherein, The method further comprises: The first network element receives a first value of the second timer from a terminal; The first network element determines a second timer, comprising: The first network element determines the second timer based on the first value and a local policy.

19. A method of communication, comprising: The method comprises: The access network device receives information of a second timer; The access network device starts the second timer when there is no data in a quality of service flow corresponding to the second timer; The access network device releases a link between the terminal after the second timer expires, the link carrying the quality of service flow.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The access network device receives information of a second timer, comprising: When the link carries multiple quality of service flows, the access network device receives information of multiple second timers corresponding to the multiple quality of service flows; The access network device releases a link between the terminal after the second timer expires, comprising: The access network device releases a link between the terminal after all the multiple second timers expire.

21. A method of communication, comprising: The method comprises: The access network device determines a third timer associated with a service and a starting condition of the third timer based on a service type; The access network device starts the third timer when the starting condition is met; The access network device releases a link between the terminal after the third timer expires, the link carrying the service.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein, The service type comprises a first service; and the starting condition of the third timer associated with the first service is that the access network device detects release of a dedicated bearer of the first service.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein, The service type includes a second service; and a starting condition of a third timer associated with the second service is that the access network device detects that the second service has no data transmission.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein, The service type includes a third service; and a starting condition of a third timer associated with the third service is that the access network device receives a starting indication of the third service or receives a stopping indication of the third service.

25. A communications device, characterized by comprising means or units for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 4 or claims 7 to 9, or comprising means or units for performing the method of any one of claims 5 and / or 6 or claims 10 to 13 or claims 19 and / or 20 or claims 21 to 24, or comprising means or units for performing the method of any one of claims 14 to 18.

26. A communications device, characterized by comprising a memory for storing a computer program; and one or more processors for executing the computer program in the memory, so that the communication device performs the method of any one of claims 1 to 4 or claims 5 and / or 6 or claims 7 to 9 or claims 10 to 13 or claims 14 to 18 or claims 19 and / or 20 or claims 21 to 24.

27. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer readable storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, implement the method of any one of claims 1 to 4 or claims 5 and / or 6 or claims 7 to 9 or claims 10 to 13 or claims 14 to 18 or claims 19 and / or 20 or claims 21 to 24.

28. A computer program product, characterised in that, comprising instructions which, when run on a computer, cause the computer to perform the method of any one of claims 1 to 4 or claims 5 and / or 6 or claims 7 to 9 or claims 10 to 13 or claims 14 to 18 or claims 19 and / or 20 or claims 21 to 24.

29. A communication system, characterized by The communication system comprises one or more of: means for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 4 or claims 7 to 9, means for performing the method of any one of claims 5 and / or 6 or claims 10 to 13 or claims 19 and / or 20 or claims 21 to 24, or means for performing the method of any one of claims 14 to 18.

30. A chip or chip system, characterized by comprising a processor for performing the method of any one of claims 1 to 4 or claims 5 and / or 6 or claims 7 to 9 or claims 10 to 13 or claims 14 to 18 or claims 19 and / or 20 or claims 21 to 24.

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