Communication method and apparatus, chip, chip module, and storage medium

Abstract

The present application discloses a communication method and apparatus, a chip, a chip module, and a storage medium. The method comprises: a terminal sending, to eNB1, a request to camp on a network; eNB1 sending, to the terminal, an indication indicating release of a connection to the terminal, the indication including an identifier of eNB2 and first time information indicating when eNB2 reaches a coverage area of the terminal; eNB1 indicating to a core network device that the terminal has sent a request to camp on the network; the core network device authenticating the terminal to obtain a first authentication result, and sending at least one of the following information to eNB2: an authentication request, the first authentication result, and security command parameters; on the basis of the first time information, the terminal determining that eNB2 has reached the coverage area of the terminal, and requesting random access to eNB2 and establishment of an RRC connection; and, on the basis of the first authentication result and a second authentication result sent by the terminal, eNB2 authenticating the terminal and notifying the terminal and the core network device. Thus, network registration can be completed via multi-satellite cooperation, the registration process is simplified, and network registration efficiency is improved.

Description

Communication methods, devices, chips, chip modules and storage media

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411433860.4, filed on October 14, 2024, entitled "Communication Method, Apparatus, Chip, Chip Module and Storage Medium", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method, device, chip, chip module and storage medium. Background Technology

[0003] In the Internet of Things (IoT) non-terrestrial network (NTN) split-MME architecture, although some MME functions are implemented on satellites, terminal subscription data such as the home subscriber server (HSS) is still on the ground. Therefore, the signaling process related to terminal network registration needs to be completed through store-and-forward.

[0004] For multi-satellite systems, multi-satellite collaboration can accelerate the speed of terminal network registration.

[0005] However, the network registration process for a terminal involves the interaction of multiple signaling messages. In the store-and-forward split-MME network architecture, the terminal also needs to interact with the terrestrial core network through multiple signaling messages. The registration process is too lengthy, requiring the terminal to repeatedly access the network multiple times to complete the registration process, which affects the terminal's power consumption and transmission latency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a communication method, device, chip, chip module, and storage medium to improve network registration efficiency.

[0007] A first aspect provides a communication method applied to a communication system, the communication system including a terminal, a first access network device, a second access network device, and a core network device. The method includes: the terminal sending a first request to the first access network device, the first request being for requesting to camp on the network; the first access network device sending a first response to the terminal, the first response indicating the release of the connection between the first access network device and the terminal, the first response including an identifier of the second access network device and first time information indicating that the second access network device has reached the coverage area of ​​the terminal; the first access network device sending first information to the core network device, the first information indicating that the terminal requests to camp on the network; the core network device authenticating the terminal and obtaining a first authentication result; and the core network device sending second information to the second access network device, the second information indicating at least one of the following information. The authentication request includes the first authentication result and security command parameters. The terminal determines the coverage area of ​​the second access network device based on the first time information and sends a second request to the second access network device. The second request requests random access and establishes a radio resource control connection with the second access network device. The second access network device sends a third request to the terminal based on the authentication request. The third request requests authentication of the terminal. The terminal sends a second response to the second access network device, indicating the second authentication result. The second access network device sends third information to the terminal, indicating that the terminal has passed authentication. The third information is obtained by comparing the first authentication result and the second authentication result. The second access network device sends a fourth message to the core network device, indicating that the terminal has passed authentication.

[0008] This method enables network registration through multi-satellite collaboration, simplifying the registration process and improving efficiency. After the terminal completes the random access process with the second access network device and establishes a radio resource control connection, it no longer needs to send an attach request to the second access network device, saving signaling interactions and further improving network registration efficiency.

[0009] In conjunction with the first aspect, in one possible design, the method further includes: the first access network device determining the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information based on ephemeris information; or the first access network device obtaining the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information via an inter-satellite link.

[0010] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible design, the method further includes: the terminal storing the non-access stratum context, the identifier of the second access network device, and the first time information.

[0011] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible design, the terminal determines the coverage area of ​​the second access network device based on the first time information, including: the terminal starts a timer; and when the duration of the timer reaches the time indicated by the first time information, the terminal searches for the second access network device to determine whether the second access network device has entered the coverage area of ​​the terminal.

[0012] With this design, the terminal can accurately determine whether the second access network device has entered the terminal's coverage area, thereby completing network registration in a timely manner through multi-satellite cooperation.

[0013] In conjunction with the first aspect, in another possible design, the third information instructs the terminal to pass authentication, and the third information also includes security command parameters.

[0014] Secondly, a communication system is provided, the communication system comprising a terminal, a first access network device, a second access network device, and a core network device, wherein: the terminal is configured to send a first request to the first access network device, the first request being a request to camp on the network; the first access network device is configured to send a first response to the terminal, the first response indicating the release of the connection between the first access network device and the terminal, the first response including an identifier of the second access network device and first time information indicating that the second access network device has reached the coverage area of ​​the terminal; the first access network device is further configured to send first information to the core network device, the first information indicating that the terminal requests to camp on the network; the core network device is configured to authenticate the terminal and obtain a first authentication result; the core network device is further configured to send second information to the second access network device, the second information indicating at least one of the following: an authentication request, the first... The authentication result and security command parameters are as follows: The terminal is further configured to determine the coverage area of ​​the second access network device reaching the terminal based on the first time information, and send a second request to the second access network device, the second request being used to request random access and establish a radio resource control connection with the second access network device; the second access network device is further configured to send a third request to the terminal based on the authentication request, the third request being used to request authentication of the terminal; the terminal is further configured to send a second response to the second access network device, the second response indicating a second authentication result; the second access network device is further configured to send third information to the terminal, the third information indicating that the terminal has passed authentication, the third information being obtained based on a comparison of the first authentication result and the second authentication result; and the second access network device is further configured to send a fourth information to the core network device, the fourth information indicating that the terminal has passed authentication.

[0015] In conjunction with the second aspect, in one possible design, the first access network device is further configured to determine the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information based on ephemeris information; or the first access network device is further configured to obtain the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information via an inter-satellite link.

[0016] In conjunction with the second aspect, in another possible design, the terminal is also used to store the non-access stratum context, the identifier of the second access network device, and the first time information.

[0017] In conjunction with the second aspect, in another possible design, the terminal is also used to start a timer; and the terminal is also used to search for the second access network device when the duration of the timer reaches the time indicated by the first time information, so as to determine whether the second access network device has entered the coverage area of ​​the terminal.

[0018] In conjunction with the second aspect, in another possible design, the third information instructs the terminal to pass authentication, and the third information also includes security command parameters.

[0019] Thirdly, a chip is provided for performing the method executed by the first access network device in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect.

[0020] Fourthly, a chip is provided for performing the method executed by the second access network device in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect.

[0021] Fifthly, a chip is provided for performing the method executed by the core network device in the first aspect or any of the designs of the first aspect.

[0022] In a sixth aspect, a chip is provided for performing the method executed by the terminal in the first aspect or any of the designs of the first aspect.

[0023] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, wherein a computer program or instructions are stored therein, and when the computer program or instructions are executed, the method executed by the first access network device in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect is implemented.

[0024] Eighthly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, wherein a computer program or instructions are stored therein, which, when executed, implement the method performed by the second access network device in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect.

[0025] In a ninth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, wherein a computer program or instructions are stored therein, which, when executed, implement the method performed by the core network device in the first aspect or any of the designs of the first aspect.

[0026] In a tenth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, wherein a computer program or instructions are stored therein, and when the computer program or instructions are executed, the terminal execution method described in the first aspect or any of the designs of the first aspect is implemented.

[0027] In an eleventh aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when executed on a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the method executed by the first access network device in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect.

[0028] In a twelfth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method executed by the second access network device in the first aspect or any design of the first aspect.

[0029] In a thirteenth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method executed by the core network device in the first aspect or any of the designs of the first aspect.

[0030] In a fourteenth aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method executed by the terminal in the first aspect or any of the designs of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a wireless communication system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0032] Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of an NTN scenario based on transparent loads;

[0033] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of an NTN scenario based on regenerative load;

[0034] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of the IoT NTN Split-MME architecture based on the LTE mobile communication system;

[0035] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of the IoT NTN Split-MME architecture based on the NR mobile communication system;

[0036] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the initial attachment process in an existing 4G network;

[0037] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0038] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the normal attachment registration process of a UE provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figures 7A and 7B are schematic diagrams illustrating satellite-to-ground communication in an example.

[0040] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of the process of UE authentication failure and inability to register to the network provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0041] Figures 9 and 10 are schematic diagrams of the communication device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0043] The term "at least one" as used in this application refers to one or more items. "More than one item" means two or more items. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used in this application to describe various objects, these objects should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish the objects from each other.

[0044] The terms "comprising," "having," and any variations thereof used in the following description of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include other steps or units not listed, or optionally include other steps or units inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus. It should be noted that in this application, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate illustrative, explanatory, or descriptive purposes. Any method or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other methods or designs. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0045] The technical solution provided in this application can be applied to various communication systems. For example, the communication system can be a fourth-generation (4G) communication system. th Generation 4G) communication systems (such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems), 5G (5G) thGeneration 6 (5G) communication systems, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) or wireless local area network (WLAN) systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems, or future communication systems, such as 6G (5G) communication systems, WiMAX or WLAN ... such as 6G (5G) communication systems, WiMAX or WLAN systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems, such as 6G (5G) communication systems, WiMAX or WLAN systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems, or integrated systems of multiple systems, such as 6G (5G) communication systems, Wi th 5G communication systems, including 6G and 6G, can also be referred to as new radio (NR) systems.

[0046] In a communication system, a network element can send signals to or receive signals from another network element. These signals can include information, signaling, or data. The term "network element" can also be replaced by an entity, network entity, device, terminal device, communication module, node, communication node, etc. This application uses a network element as an example for description. For instance, a communication system may include at least one terminal device and at least one access network device. The access network device can send downlink signals to the terminal device, and / or the terminal device can send uplink signals to the access network device. Furthermore, it is understood that if the communication system includes multiple terminal devices, these terminal devices can also exchange signals; that is, both the signal-transmitting network element and the signal-receiving network element can be terminal devices.

[0047] The communication method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to wireless communication systems such as 5G, 6G, and satellite communication. Referring to Figure 1, Figure 1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a wireless communication system provided in this application embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the wireless communication system includes a wireless access network 100. The wireless access network 100 can be a next-generation (e.g., 6G or higher) wireless access network or a traditional (e.g., 5G, 4G) wireless access network. One or more terminal devices (120a-120g, collectively referred to as 120) can be interconnected or connected to one or more network devices (110a-110c, collectively referred to as 110) in the wireless access network 100, and the connection method can be wired or wireless. Optionally, Figure 1 is only a schematic diagram; the wireless communication system may also include other devices, such as core network devices, wireless relay devices, and / or wireless backhaul devices, which are not shown in Figure 1.

[0048] Optionally, in practical applications, the wireless communication system may include multiple network devices (also known as access network devices) and multiple terminal devices simultaneously. A network device can serve one or more terminal devices simultaneously. A terminal device can also access one or more network devices simultaneously. This application embodiment does not limit the number of terminal devices and network devices included in the wireless communication system.

[0049] In this context, a network device can be an entity on the network side used to transmit or receive signals. A network device can also be an access device that allows terminal devices to wirelessly connect to the wireless communication system; for example, a network device can be a base station. A base station can broadly encompass, or be replaced by, various names including: radio access network (RAN) node, NodeB, evolved NodeB (eNB), next-generation NodeB (gNB), access network equipment in an open radio access network (O-RAN), relay station, access point, transmitting and receiving point (TRP), transmitting point (TP), master-eNB (MeNB), secondary eNB (SeNB), multi-standard radio (MSR) node, home base station, network controller, access node, radio node, access point (AP), transmission node, transceiver node, building baseband unit (BBU), remote radio unit (RRU), active antenna unit (AAU), remote radio head (RRH), and centralized unit. Network equipment includes units (CU), distributed units (DU), radio units (RU), centralized unit-control plane (CU-CP) nodes, centralized unit-user plane (CU-UP) nodes, and positioning nodes. Base stations can be macro base stations, micro base stations, relay nodes, donor nodes, or similar entities, or combinations thereof. Network equipment can also refer to communication modules, modems, or chips installed within the aforementioned devices or apparatuses. Network equipment can also be mobile switching centers and equipment that performs base station functions in device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), and machine-to-machine (M2M) communications; network-side equipment in 6G networks; and equipment performing base station functions in future communication systems. Network equipment can support networks using the same or different access technologies.The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the network device.

[0050] Network devices can be fixed or mobile. For example, base stations 110b and 110c are stationary and are responsible for wireless transmission and reception in one or more cells from terminal device 120. The helicopter or drone 120c shown in Figure 1 can be configured to act as a mobile base station, and one or more cells can move depending on the location of the mobile base station. In other examples, the helicopter or drone (120c) can be configured as a terminal device communicating with satellite base station 110a.

[0051] In this application, the communication device used to implement the above-mentioned network access functions can be an access network device, a network device with some access network functions, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of access network functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or hardware circuit plus software module. This device can be installed in the access network device or used in conjunction with the access network device. In the method of this application, the example of an access network device being used as the communication device to implement the access network device functions is described.

[0052] A terminal device can be a user-side entity used to receive or transmit signals, such as a mobile phone. Terminal devices can be used to connect people, things, and machines. Terminal devices can communicate with one or more core networks via network devices. Terminal devices include handheld devices with wireless connectivity, other processing devices connected to a wireless modem, or vehicle-mounted devices. Terminal devices can be portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-integrated, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices. Terminal devices 120 can be widely used in various scenarios, such as cellular communication, D2D, V2X, point-to-point (P2P), machine-to-machine (M2M), machine-type communication (MTC), Internet of Things (IoT), virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), industrial control, autonomous driving, telemedicine, smart grids, smart furniture, smart offices, smart wearables, smart transportation, smart cities, drones, robots, remote sensing, passive sensing, positioning, navigation and tracking, autonomous delivery and mobility, etc.Examples of terminal equipment 120 include: 3GPP standard user equipment (UE), fixed equipment, mobile equipment, handheld devices, wearable devices, cellular phones, smartphones, session initiated protocol (SIP) phones, laptops, personal computers, smart books, vehicles, satellites, global positioning system (GPS) devices, target tracking devices, drones, helicopters, aircraft, ships, remote control devices, smart home devices, industrial equipment, personal communication service (PCS) phones, wireless local loop (WLL) stations, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless network cameras, tablets, handheld computers, mobile internet devices (MIDs), wearable devices such as smartwatches, VR devices, AR devices, wireless terminals in industrial control, terminals in vehicle-to-everything (V2X) systems, wireless terminals in self-driving systems, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, and smart city applications. Wireless terminals in various scenarios include smart gas pumps, high-speed rail terminals, and smart home terminals such as smart speakers, smart coffee machines, and smart printers. Terminal device 120 can be a wireless device in these scenarios or a device for installing on a wireless device, such as a communication module, modem, or chip. Terminal device can also be called a terminal, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), or mobile terminal (MT). Terminal device can also be a terminal device in future wireless communication systems. Terminal device can be used in dedicated network equipment or general-purpose equipment. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the terminal device.

[0053] Optionally, the terminal device can be used to act as a base station. For example, the UE can act as a scheduling entity, providing sidelink signaling between UEs in V2X, D2D, or P2P, etc. As shown in Figure 1, cellular phone 120a and car 120b communicate with each other using sidelink signaling. Cellular phone 120a communicates with smart home device 120e without relaying communication signals through base station 110b.

[0054] In this application, the communication device used to implement the functions of the terminal device can be a terminal device, a terminal device having some of the functions of the aforementioned terminal device, or a device capable of supporting the implementation of the functions of the aforementioned terminal device, such as a chip system. This device can be installed in the terminal device or used in conjunction with the terminal device. In this application, the chip system can be composed of chips or include chips and other discrete components. The technical solutions provided in this application are described using the example of a terminal device or UE as the communication device.

[0055] Optionally, wireless communication systems typically consist of cells. Base stations manage the cells and provide communication services to multiple mobile stations (MS) within them. A base station includes a baseband unit (BBU) and a remote radio unit (RRU). The BBU and RRU can be located in different places; for example, the RRU can be deployed remotely to a high-traffic area, while the BBU is located in a central equipment room. Alternatively, the BBU and RRU can be located in the same equipment room. The BBU and RRU can also be different components within the same rack. Optionally, a cell can correspond to one carrier or a member carrier.

[0056] In some deployments, the network devices mentioned in the embodiments of this application may be devices including CU, or DU, or devices including CU and DU, or control plane CU node (CU-CP), user plane CU node (CU-UP), and DU node. For example, the network devices may include gNB-CU-CP, gNB-CU-UP, and gNB-DU.

[0057] In some deployments, multiple RAN nodes collaborate to assist terminals in achieving wireless access, with different RAN nodes each implementing some of the base station's functions. For example, RAN nodes can be CUs, DUs, CU-CPs, CU-UPs, or radio units (RUs). CUs and DUs can be configured separately or included in the same network element, such as a BBU. RUs can be included in radio equipment or radio units, such as RRUs, AAUs, or RRHs.

[0058] RAN nodes can support one or more types of fronthaul interfaces, each corresponding to a DU and RU with different functions. If the fronthaul interface between the DU and RU is a common public radio interface (CPRI), the DU is configured to implement one or more baseband functions, and the RU is configured to implement one or more radio frequency functions. If the fronthaul interface between the DU and RU is another type of interface, relative to CPRI, some downlink and / or uplink baseband functions, such as, for downlink, precoding, digital beamforming (BF), or one or more of inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) / cyclic prefix addition (CP), are moved from the DU to the RU; and for uplink, digital beamforming (BF), or one or more of fast Fourier transform (FFT) / cyclic prefix removal (CP), are moved from the DU to the RU. In one possible implementation, the interface can be an enhanced common public radio interface (eCPRI). Under the eCPRI architecture, the segmentation between DU and RU differs, corresponding to different categories (Cat) of eCPRI, such as eCPRI Cat A, B, C, D, E, F.

[0059] Taking eCPRI Cat A as an example, for downlink transmission, the DU is configured to implement one or more functions before and after layer mapping (i.e., coding, rate matching, scrambling, modulation, and layer mapping), while other functions after layer mapping (e.g., RE mapping, digital beamforming (BF), or one or more functions of inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) / adding cyclic prefix (CP)) are moved to the RU. For uplink transmission, the DU is configured to implement one or more functions before and after de-RE mapping (i.e., decoding, de-rate matching, descrambling, demodulation, inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT), channel equalization, and de-RE mapping), while other functions after de-RE mapping (e.g., digital BF or FFT / removing CP) are moved to the RU. Understandably, the functional descriptions of the DU and RU corresponding to various types of eCPRI can be found in the eCPRI protocol, and will not be elaborated here.

[0060] In one possible design, the processing unit in the BBU used to implement baseband functions is called the baseband high (BBH) unit, and the processing unit in the RRU / AAU / RRH used to implement baseband functions is called the baseband low (BBL) unit.

[0061] In different systems, CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may have different names, but those skilled in the art will understand their meaning. For example, in an ORAN system, CU can also be called an open-centralized unit (O-CU), DU can also be called an open-distributed unit (O-DU), CU-CP can also be called an open-centralized unit-control plane (O-CU-CP), CU-UP can also be called an open-centralized unit-user plane (O-CU-UP), and RU can also be called an open-radio unit (O-RU). Any of the units among CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented through software modules, hardware modules, or a combination of software and hardware modules.

[0062] In this embodiment, the apparatus for implementing the functions of a network device can be a network device itself; it can also be an apparatus capable of supporting the network device in implementing those functions, such as a chip system, hardware circuit, software module, or a hardware circuit plus a software module. This apparatus can be installed in the network device or used in conjunction with the network device. In this embodiment, the example of a network device being used to implement the functions of a network device is provided only and does not constitute a limitation on the solutions described in this embodiment.

[0063] It is understood that this application can be applied between network devices and terminal devices.

[0064] Communication between network devices and terminal devices follows a specific protocol layer structure. This protocol layer structure can include a control plane protocol layer structure and a user plane protocol layer structure. For example, the control plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the radio resource control (RRC) layer, the packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, the radio link control (RLC) layer, the medium access control (MAC) layer, and the physical layer. Similarly, the user plane protocol layer structure can include the functions of protocol layers such as the PDCP layer, the RLC layer, the MAC layer, and the physical layer. In one possible implementation, a service data adaptation protocol (SDAP) layer can be included above the PDCP layer.

[0065] Optionally, the protocol layer structure between network devices and terminal devices may also include an artificial intelligence (AI) layer for transmitting data related to AI functions.

[0066] Taking data transmission between network devices and terminal devices as an example, data transmission needs to pass through user plane protocol layers, such as the SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer. The SDAP layer, PDCP layer, RLC layer, MAC layer, and physical layer can also be collectively referred to as the access layer. Based on the direction of data transmission, it is divided into sending and receiving; each of these layers is further divided into a sending part and a receiving part. Taking downlink data transmission as an example, after the PDCP layer obtains data from the upper layer, it transmits the data to the RLC layer and MAC layer. The MAC layer then generates a transport block, and finally, it is wirelessly transmitted through the physical layer. Data is encapsulated in corresponding ways at each layer. For example, data received by a layer from the upper layer is considered a Service Data Unit (SDU) of that layer. After encapsulation by that layer, it becomes a Protocol Data Unit (PDU) and is then passed to the next layer.

[0067] For example, the terminal device may also have an application layer and a non-access layer. The application layer can be used to provide services to applications installed on the terminal device. For instance, downlink data received by the terminal device can be sequentially transmitted from the physical layer to the application layer, and then provided to the application by the application layer. Alternatively, the application layer can acquire data generated by the application and sequentially transmit the data to the physical layer for transmission to other communication devices. The non-access layer can be used to forward user data, such as forwarding uplink data received from the application layer to the SDAP layer, or forwarding downlink data received from the SDAP layer to the application layer.

[0068] It should be understood that the number and type of each device in the communication system shown in Figure 1 are for illustrative purposes only, and this application is not limited thereto. In actual applications, the communication system may include more terminal devices, more access network devices, and other network elements, such as core network devices and / or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions.

[0069] It is understandable that all or part of the functions implemented by one or more of the terminal devices, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be virtualized, that is, implemented through one or more of dedicated or general-purpose processors and corresponding software modules. Among these, the terminal devices and access network devices involve air interface transmission, and the transmit and receive functions of this interface can be implemented in hardware. Core network devices, such as operation administration and maintenance (OAM) network elements, can also be virtualized. Optionally, one or more of the functions of the virtualized terminal devices, access network devices, core network devices, or network elements used to implement artificial intelligence functions can be implemented by cloud devices, such as cloud devices in over-the-top (OTT) systems.

[0070] The concept of NTN networks is introduced below:

[0071] NTN networks refer to networks that utilize radio frequency resources on satellites (or unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) platforms, high altitude platform stations (HAPS)). Compared to terrestrial cellular networks (such as 5G mobile communication systems), NTN networks offer wider coverage, lower latency, broadband speeds, and lower costs. As a supplement and extension to terrestrial networks, NTN networks can achieve wide-area seamless coverage that wired telephone networks and terrestrial mobile communication networks cannot, effectively solving internet access problems in areas lacking communication infrastructure. With a large number of satellites deployed in low Earth orbit, the round-trip transmission latency between satellites and ground terminal equipment is significantly reduced, reaching a low latency of tens of milliseconds. The use of technologies such as high-frequency bands, multi-beamforming, and frequency reuse significantly improves satellite communication capabilities, reduces unit broadband costs, and meets the demands of high-data-rate services. Compared to terrestrial 5G base stations and submarine fiber optic cables, NTN has a significant cost advantage. Modern small satellites have low R&D and manufacturing costs, and software-defined technologies can further extend the lifespan of satellites in orbit. NTN networks can be used for global coverage (such as remote areas and ocean-going vessels), emergency relief (such as disaster monitoring and emergency communications), the Internet of Things, and high-speed mobility (such as high-speed rail and airplanes).

[0072] Typical scenarios for NTN networks to provide terminal device access include transparent payloads and regenerative payloads. Figure 2A illustrates an NTN scenario based on a transparent payload. A transparent payload modifies the uplink radio frequency (RF) signal's frequency carrier, filtering and amplifying it before downlink transmission. This type of payload only has an RF processing unit and lacks baseband demodulation and decoding. Therefore, the signal waveform remains unchanged and is repeated. Figure 2B illustrates an NTN scenario based on a regenerative payload. A regenerative payload transforms and amplifies the uplink RF signal before downlink transmission. Signal transformation refers to digital processing, which can include demodulation, decoding, recoding, remodulation, and / or filtering. This is essentially equivalent to having all or part of the base station functionality on a satellite (or UAS platform).

[0073] The aforementioned NTN networks typically have the following elements:

[0074] (1) There are one or more gateways connecting the NTN network and the common data network.

[0075] (2) Feeder link: The wireless link between the gateway station and the satellite (or UAS platform).

[0076] (3) Service link: The wireless link between the terminal device and the satellite (or UAS platform).

[0077] (4) Satellite (or UAS platform) can realize transparent payload and regenerative payload.

[0078] (5) Whether the satellite constellation has an inter-satellite link (ISL) is optional. An inter-satellite link requires the satellite to be a regenerative payload (i.e., if there is an inter-satellite link, the satellite must be a regenerative payload). ISLs can operate in RF frequencies or optical bands.

[0079] (6) The terminal equipment is provided by satellites (or UAS platforms) within the target service area.

[0080] Figure 3A shows a schematic diagram of the IoT NTN Split-MME architecture based on the LTE mobile communication system. Although some MME functions are on the satellite (i.e., the non-terrestrial network - mobile management entity, MME-NT), the UE subscription data servers such as HSS are still on the ground. Therefore, the signaling processes such as attach related to UE network registration need to be completed through store-and-forward.

[0081] The same problem exists for the IoT NTN Split-MME architecture based on the NR mobile communication system, as shown in Figure 3B.

[0082] If the UE relies on a single satellite to complete network registration, after the UE sends signaling to the satellite base station, it needs to wait at least one orbit of the satellite base station before returning to the UE's area to complete the camping process, which may take several hours.

[0083] For multi-satellite systems, multi-satellite collaboration can accelerate the UE network registration process.

[0084] However, the prerequisite for this multi-satellite collaboration to achieve network registration is that after the UE sends the registration signaling, it must search for and camp on a satellite carrying the UE downlink attach accept message, normally receive the network parameter configuration of the attach accept message, and complete the network registration process.

[0085] If the UE cannot correctly find the satellite carrying the UE's downlink attach accept message, and instead continues the access process to other satellite cells, it will cause network registration to fail to complete normally, and will also result in problems such as wasting UE power consumption.

[0086] Another problem in the registration process is the excessive amount of signaling interaction between the UE and the network.

[0087] Figure 4 shows the initial attach process in an existing 4G network. In the TN terrestrial network, the network registration process of NB-IoT or EMTC terminals involves multiple signaling messages between the UE and the core network: in addition to attach request / attach accept, there will also be authentication request / authentication response and security mode command / security mode complete.

[0088] If, under the store-and-forward MME-split network architecture, the UE also needs to repeatedly deliver the above multiple signaling messages to the terrestrial core network (terrestrial network-mobility management entity-terrestrial network, MME-T), then the registration process is too lengthy, and the UE needs to repeatedly access the network to complete the registration process multiple times, which affects the terminal's power consumption and transmission latency.

[0089] To address the aforementioned issues, this application provides a communication scheme in which a terminal requests to camp on the network from a first access network device; the first access network device instructs the terminal to release its connection with the terminal, carries the identifier of a second access network device and first-time information indicating the arrival time of the second access network device in the terminal's coverage area, and instructs the core network device to request to camp on the network; the core network device authenticates the terminal, obtains a first authentication result, and sends at least one of the following information to the second access network device: authentication request, first authentication result, and security command parameters; the terminal determines the coverage area of ​​the second access network device based on the first-time information, requests random access from the second access network device, and establishes an RRC connection; the second access network device authenticates the terminal based on the first authentication result and the second authentication result sent by the terminal, and notifies the terminal and the core network device. This allows for network registration through multi-satellite collaboration, simplifies the registration process, and improves network registration efficiency.

[0090] Based on the above communication system, the communication method provided in this application is described below:

[0091] Figure 5 shows a flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. Exemplarily, the method may include the following steps:

[0092] S501. The UE sends a first request to the first access network device.

[0093] The first request is used to request to reside on the network.

[0094] The UE searches for the satellite base station in the current coverage area—the first access network device—and connects to it, attempting to register. For example, the UE initiates a random access procedure with the first access network device and establishes an RRC connection with it. Then, the UE sends an attach request to the first access network device.

[0095] For example, the first request includes at least one of the following: initiating a random access procedure (a preamble and message 3 sent by the UE to the first access network device when using four-step random access; and message 1 sent by the UE to the first access network device when using two-step random access), establishing an RRC connection and attaching request.

[0096] S502. After receiving the first request, the first access network device sends a first response to the UE.

[0097] After receiving the first request sent by the UE, the first access network device calculates the satellite base station that can forward the downlink registration response message to the UE fastest based on ephemeris information or obtains it through the inter-satellite link (ISL)—the second access network device—as well as the first time information of the second access network device arriving in the UE's coverage area.

[0098] Then, the first access network device sends a first response to the UE. This first response indicates the release of the connection with the UE and includes the identifier of the second access network device and first time information about the arrival of the second access network device in the UE's coverage area.

[0099] The UE saves the non-access stratum (NAS) context and registration information, and can start a timer to wait for the second access network device according to the indication of the first response.

[0100] The first access network device leaves the UE's coverage area.

[0101] S503. The first access network device sends the first information to the core network device.

[0102] The first piece of information indicates that the UE requests to camp on the network.

[0103] The first access network device can forward the UE's registration signaling (such as the attach request mentioned above) to the core network via a feeder link or via an inter-satellite link from other satellites.

[0104] S504. The core network equipment authenticates the UE and obtains the first authentication result.

[0105] The core network processes the UE's first request, confirms the UE's legitimacy, generates an authentication request for the UE, and sets the expected result of the authentication request (called the first authentication result), while configuring security command parameters.

[0106] For example, after the core network receives the UE's first request, it can obtain the UE's subscription information from the home subscriber server (HSS) or through predefined parameters, thereby confirming the UE's legitimacy, generating an authentication request for the UE, the expected result of the authentication request, and configuring security command parameters.

[0107] S505. The core network equipment sends the second information to the second access network equipment.

[0108] The core network equipment can obtain the satellite base station that can forward the downlink registration response message to the UE the fastest, which is the second access network equipment, and send the second information to the second access network equipment.

[0109] The second information indicates at least one of the following: authentication request, first authentication result, and security command parameters.

[0110] S506. The UE determines the coverage area of ​​the second access network device based on the first time information and sends a second request to the second access network device.

[0111] For example, when the timer started by the UE reaches the time indicated by the first time information, it is determined that the second access network device has reached the UE's coverage area, and a second request is sent to the second access network device. This second request is used to request random access and establish an RRC connection. Here, the UE no longer needs to send an attach request to the second access network device, saving signaling interactions and improving network registration efficiency.

[0112] S507. The second access network device sends a third request to the UE based on the authentication request sent by the core network device.

[0113] In step S505 above, after the second access network device receives the authentication request sent by the core network device, and after receiving the UE's random access and establishing an RRC connection with the UE, it sends a third request to the UE. This third request is used to request authentication of the UE.

[0114] S508. The UE sends a second response to the second access network device.

[0115] After receiving the authentication request from the core network device forwarded by the second access network device, the UE performs authentication processing on the request and sends a second response to the second access network device. This second response indicates the second authentication result (i.e., the UE's own authentication result).

[0116] S509. The second access network device sends third information to the UE.

[0117] The second access network device compares the second authentication result returned by the UE with the first authentication result sent by the core network to determine whether authentication is successful, generates third information, and sends the third information to the UE. This third information indicates whether the UE has passed or failed authentication. The first information is obtained by comparing the first and second authentication results.

[0118] S510. The second access network device sends the fourth information to the core network device.

[0119] The fourth piece of information indicates whether the UE has passed authentication or failed authentication.

[0120] According to an embodiment of this application, a communication method can complete network registration through multi-satellite cooperation, simplifying the registration process and improving network registration efficiency.

[0121] Based on the above communication methods, the normal UE attachment and registration process is described in detail below:

[0122] Figure 6 shows a flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method is based on an LTE communication system. This method can also be applied to NR or future wireless communication systems. Exemplarily, the method may include the following steps:

[0123] The UE searches for the satellite base station eNB1 in the current coverage area, accesses it, and attempts to register:

[0124] S601. The UE initiates a random access procedure to the eNB1 and establishes an RRC connection (including the UE sending an RRC connection request to the eNB1 and the eNB1 sending an RRC connection establishment signaling to the UE).

[0125] S602. The UE sends a network registration signal to eNB1: attach request.

[0126] Figure 7A shows a schematic diagram of satellite-to-ground communication. eNB1 currently does not have a power supply link, therefore, eNB1 stores the registration signaling (i.e., attach request) sent by the UE.

[0127] After receiving the attach request sent by the UE, S603.eNB1 calculates the satellite base station eNB2 that can forward the downlink registration response message to the UE fastest based on ephemeris information or obtains the time information of eNB2 arriving in the UE's coverage area through the inter-satellite link.

[0128] S604.eNB1 sends a Radio Resource Control Release (RRC release) signaling to the UE to release the UE's connection.

[0129] The RRC release signaling includes the satellite identifier (ID) of the satellite base station eNB2 that may forward the UE downlink registration response message, as well as the time information of eNB2's arrival in the UE's coverage area.

[0130] Referring again to Figure 7A, eNB1 sends an RRC release signaling to the UE through the serving link.

[0131] S605. The UE saves the non-access stratum (NAS) context and registration information, goes into standby mode, and starts a timer to wait for the satellite base station eNB2 according to the RRC release signaling.

[0132] S606.eNB1 forwards the UE's registration signaling to the core network via the power supply link or via inter-satellite links from other satellites.

[0133] Figure 7B shows another example of satellite-to-ground communication. eNB1 sends the UE's registration signaling to the core network via the feeder link.

[0134] For example, the core network here can be a ground-based mobility management entity (MME-ground).

[0135] S607. The core network processes the UE's attach request, confirms the UE's legitimacy, generates an authentication request for the UE, the expected result of the authentication request, and configures security command parameters.

[0136] For example, after the core network receives the UE's attach request, it can obtain the UE's subscription information from the HSS or through predefined parameters, thereby confirming the UE's legitimacy, generating an authentication request for the UE, the expected result of the authentication request, and configuring security command parameters.

[0137] The S608 core network forwards the authentication request, the expected result of the authentication request, and the security command parameters to eNB2 via the power supply link or via the inter-satellite link from other satellites.

[0138] The S609.eNB2 receives and stores authentication requests, expected results of authentication requests, and security command parameters sent by the core network.

[0139] eNB2 enters the UE coverage area; the UE uses the satellite identifier and time information carried in the aforementioned RRC release signaling to search and confirm that eNB2 has arrived in the UE coverage area.

[0140] S610. The UE initiates a random access procedure to the eNB2 and establishes an RRC connection.

[0141] S611.eNB2 sends an authentication request to the UE based on the authentication request sent by the core network stored therein.

[0142] S612. The UE performs authentication processing on the authentication request forwarded by eNB2 and returns an authentication response, which includes the UE's authentication result.

[0143] The S613.eNB2 onboard mobility management entity compares the authentication result returned by the UE with the expected result of the authentication request sent by the core network to determine whether authentication is successful.

[0144] S614. If authentication is successful, eNB2 sends an attach accept signaling message to the UE and forwards the core network security command parameters.

[0145] S615. The UE sends an attach complete signal to the eNB2.

[0146] S616.eNB2 forwards the UE's attach completion signaling to the core network via the power supply link or via inter-satellite links from other satellites.

[0147] Referring again to Figure 7B, eNB2 sends the UE's attach completion signaling to the core network through the service link.

[0148] S617. Core network update: UE authentication passed normally, registration completed.

[0149] Based on the above communication method, the process of UE authentication failure and inability to register with the network is described in detail below:

[0150] Figure 8 shows a flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of this application. This method is based on an LTE communication system. This method can also be applied to NR or future wireless communication systems. Exemplarily, the method may include the following steps:

[0151] The process preceding S801 can be referred to steps S601 to S610 of the embodiment shown in Figure 6, and will not be repeated here.

[0152] S801.eNB2 sends an authentication request to the UE based on the authentication request sent by the core network stored therein.

[0153] S802. The UE performs authentication processing on the authentication request forwarded by eNB2 and returns an authentication response, which includes the UE's authentication result.

[0154] The S803.eNB2 onboard mobility management entity compares the authentication result returned by the UE with the expected result of the authentication request sent by the core network to determine whether authentication is successful.

[0155] S804. If authentication fails, eNB2 sends an attach reject signal to the UE.

[0156] S805.eNB2 forwards the UE's attach denial signaling to the core network via the power supply link or via inter-satellite links from other satellites.

[0157] S806. Core network update: UE authentication failed, registration failed.

[0158] In this application, the phrase "sending information to... (e.g., UE)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the destination of the information being the UE. This can include sending information directly or indirectly to the UE. Similarly, "receiving information from... (e.g., UE)" or "receiving information from... (e.g., UE)" or the related illustrations in the accompanying drawings can be understood as the source of the information being the UE. This can include receiving information directly or indirectly from the UE. The information may undergo necessary processing between the source and destination, such as format changes, but the destination can understand the valid information from the source. Similar expressions in this application can be interpreted similarly, and will not be elaborated further here.

[0159] It is understood that this application uses the UE and network equipment (including access network equipment and core network equipment) as examples to illustrate the interaction, but this application does not limit the execution subject of the interaction. For example, the UE in the method provided by this application can also be a chip, chip system, or processor applied to the UE, or a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the UE; the network equipment in the method provided by this application can also be a chip, chip system, or processor applied to the network equipment, or a logical node, logical module, or software that can implement all or part of the network equipment functions.

[0160] It is understood that, in the above embodiments, the methods and / or steps implemented by the UE can also be implemented by components (e.g., chips or circuits) that can be used by the UE; and the methods and / or steps implemented by the network device can also be implemented by components (e.g., chips or circuits) that can be used by the network device.

[0161] The above mainly describes the solutions provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of interaction between various devices. Accordingly, the embodiments of this application also provide a communication device for implementing the various methods described above. This communication device can be a UE in the above method embodiments, or a component that can be used in a UE; or, this communication device can be a network device in the above method embodiments, or a component that can be used in a network device. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the communication device includes hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to the execution of each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, in conjunction with the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0162] This application embodiment can divide the communication device into functional modules according to the above method embodiment. For example, each function can be divided into its own functional modules, or two or more functions can be integrated into one processing unit. The integrated modules can be implemented in hardware or as software functional modules. It should be noted that the module division in this application embodiment is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods.

[0163] Figures 9 and 10 are schematic diagrams illustrating possible communication devices provided in embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of the UE or network device in the above method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments. In the embodiments of this application, the communication device can be one of the UEs 19a-19g shown in Figure 1, or it can be a module (such as a chip) applied to the UE or network device.

[0164] As shown in Figure 9, the communication device 900 includes a transceiver unit 901 and a processing unit 902. The communication device 900 is used to implement the functions of the UE or network device in the method embodiments shown in Figures 5, 6, and 8.

[0165] When the communication device 900 is used to implement the function of the UE in the method embodiment shown in FIG5: the transceiver unit 901 is used to implement one or more operations performed by the UE in steps S501, S502, S506 to S509 in the embodiment shown in FIG5.

[0166] When the communication device 900 is used to implement the function of the first access network device in the method embodiment shown in FIG5: the transceiver unit 901 is used to implement one or more operations performed by the first access network device in steps S501 to S503 in the embodiment shown in FIG5.

[0167] When the communication device 900 is used to implement the function of the second access network device in the method embodiment shown in FIG5: the transceiver unit 901 is used to implement one or more operations performed by the second access network device in steps S505 to S510 of the embodiment shown in FIG5.

[0168] When the communication device 900 is used to implement the function of the core network device in the method embodiment shown in FIG5: the transceiver unit 901 is used to implement one or more operations performed by the core network device in steps S503, S505, and S510 in the embodiment shown in FIG5, and the processing unit 902 is used to implement step S504 in the embodiment shown in FIG5.

[0169] A more detailed description of the transceiver unit 901 and the processing unit 902 can be obtained directly from the relevant descriptions in the method embodiments shown in Figures 5, 6 and 8, and will not be repeated here.

[0170] As shown in Figure 10, the communication device 1000 includes a processor 1001 and an interface circuit 1002. The processor 1001 and the interface circuit 1002 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 1002 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 1000 may also include a memory 1003 for storing instructions executed by the processor 1001, or storing input data required by the processor 1001 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 1001 executes instructions.

[0171] When the communication device 1000 is used to implement the method shown in FIG5, the processor 1001 is used to implement the function of the processing unit 902, and the interface circuit 1002 is used to implement the function of the transceiver unit 901.

[0172] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to the UE, the UE chip implements the functions of the UE in the above method embodiments. The UE chip receives information from other modules in the UE (such as radio frequency modules or antennas), which is sent to the UE by the network device; or, the UE chip sends information to other modules in the UE (such as radio frequency modules or antennas), which is sent to the network device by the UE.

[0173] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a network device, the network device chip implements the functions of the network device in the above method embodiments. The network device chip receives information from other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, which is sent by the UE to the network device; or, the network device chip sends information to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, which is sent by the network device to the UE.

[0174] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application can be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0175] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, implement the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0176] This application also provides a computer program product containing instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described in the above embodiments.

[0177] This application also provides a communication system, including the communication device described above.

[0178] This application also provides a circuit coupled to a memory, which is used to perform the methods shown in the above embodiments. This circuit may include a chip circuit.

[0179] This application also provides a chip device, including a processor, for calling computer programs or computer instructions stored in the memory, so that the processor executes the method provided in any of the above method embodiments.

[0180] In one possible implementation, the input of the chip device corresponds to the receiving operation in any of the above method embodiments, and the output of the chip device corresponds to the sending operation in any of the above method embodiments.

[0181] Optionally, the processor is coupled to the memory via an interface.

[0182] Optionally, the chip device may also include a memory that stores computer programs or computer instructions.

[0183] It should be noted that one or more of the above units can be implemented by software, hardware, or a combination of both. When any of the above units is implemented by software, the software exists as computer program instructions and is stored in memory. The processor can be used to execute the program instructions and implement the above method flow.

[0184] In this application, the processor can be a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components, capable of implementing or executing the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in this application. The general-purpose processor can be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in this application can be directly manifested as being executed by a hardware processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules within the processor.

[0185] When the above units or components are implemented in hardware, the hardware can be any one or any combination of a CPU, microprocessor, digital signal processing (DSP) chip, microcontroller unit (MCU), artificial intelligence processor, ASIC, SoC, FPGA, programmable logic device (PLD), application-specific digital circuit, hardware accelerator, or non-integrated discrete device, which can run the necessary software or perform the above method flow independently of software.

[0186] Optionally, embodiments of this application also provide a chip system, including: at least one processor and an interface, wherein the at least one processor is coupled to a memory via the interface, and when the at least one processor executes a computer program or instructions in the memory, the chip system performs the method in any of the above method embodiments. Optionally, the chip system may be composed of chips, or may include chips and other discrete devices; embodiments of this application do not specifically limit this.

[0187] The memory in this application can also be a circuit or any other device capable of performing storage functions, used to store program instructions and / or data. Memory is any other medium capable of carrying or storing desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures, and accessible by a computer, but is not limited thereto. For example, memory can be non-volatile memory, such as digital versatile disc (DVD), hard disk drive (HDD), or solid-state drive (SSD), or it can be volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM).

[0188] It is understood that in this application, "instruction" can include direct instruction, indirect instruction, explicit instruction, and implicit instruction. When describing a certain instruction information to indicate A, it can be understood that the instruction information carries A, directly indicates A, or indirectly indicates A. In this application, the information indicated by the instruction information is called the information to be instructed. In specific implementation, there are many ways to indicate the information to be instructed, such as, but not limited to, directly indicating the information to be instructed, such as the information to be instructed itself or its index, or indirectly indicating the information to be instructed by indicating other information, wherein there is an association between the other information and the information to be instructed. It is also possible to indicate only a part of the information to be instructed, while the other parts of the information to be instructed are known or agreed upon in advance. For example, the instruction of specific information can also be achieved by using the arrangement order of various information in advance (e.g., as specified by a protocol), thereby reducing the instruction overhead to a certain extent. The information to be instructed can be sent as a whole or divided into multiple sub-information to be sent separately, and the sending period and / or sending time of these sub-information can be the same or different. This application does not limit the specific sending method. The sending period and / or timing of these sub-information messages can be predefined, for example, according to a protocol, or configured by the transmitting device by sending configuration information to the receiving device.

[0189] The term "at least one" in this application refers to one or more items. "More than one item" means two or more items. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, and B existing alone, where A and B can be single or multiple. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. Furthermore, it should be understood that although the terms "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe objects in this application, these objects should not be limited to these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish the objects from each other. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions are used to indicate any combination of the listed items; for example, at least one of A, B, and / or C can represent: A existing alone, B existing alone, C existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, B and C existing simultaneously, A and C existing simultaneously, and A, B, and C existing simultaneously, where A, B, and C can be single or multiple.

[0190] The terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, mentioned above are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include other steps or units not listed, or optionally include other steps or units inherent to such process, method, product, or apparatus. It should be noted that in this application, words such as "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate exemplification, illustration, or description. Any method or design described as "exemplary" or "for example" in this application should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other methods or designs. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a concrete manner.

[0191] In a communication system, a network element can send signals to or receive signals from another network element. These signals can include information, signaling, or data. The term "network element" can also be replaced by an entity, network entity, device, UE, communication module, node, communication node, etc. This application uses a network element as an example for description. For instance, a communication system may include at least one UE and at least one network device. The network device can send downlink signals to the UE, and / or the UE can send uplink signals to the network device. Furthermore, it is understood that if the communication system includes multiple UEs, these UEs can also exchange signals; that is, both the sending and receiving network elements can be UEs.

[0192] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software programs, implementation can be, in whole or in part, in the form of a computer program product. This computer program product includes one or more computer instructions. When the computer program instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means.

[0193] Although this application has been described herein in conjunction with various embodiments, those skilled in the art, by reviewing the accompanying drawings, disclosure, and appended claims, will understand and implement other variations of the disclosed embodiments in carrying out the claimed application. In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other components or steps, and "a" or "an" does not exclude multiple instances. A single processor or other unit can implement several functions listed in the claims. While different dependent claims may recite certain measures, this does not mean that these measures cannot be combined to produce good results.

[0194] It is understood that the various numerical designations used in the embodiments of this application are merely for descriptive convenience and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this application. The order of the process numbers described above does not imply the order of execution; the execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic.

[0195] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts not described in detail in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0196] The components in the device described in this application embodiment can be combined, divided, or removed according to actual needs. Those skilled in the art can combine or integrate the different embodiments and features described in this specification.

[0197] In this application, examples may reference each other without logical contradiction. For example, methods and / or terms between method embodiments may reference each other, functions and / or terms between device embodiments may reference each other, and functions and / or terms between device examples and method examples may reference each other.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, The method is applied to a communication system, the communication system including a terminal, a first access network device, a second access network device, and a core network device, the method comprising: The terminal sends a first request to the first access network device, the first request being used to request to camp on the network; The first access network device sends a first response to the terminal. The first response indicates the release of the connection between the first access network device and the terminal. The first response includes the identifier of the second access network device and first time information of the second access network device reaching the coverage area of ​​the terminal. The first access network device sends first information to the core network device, the first information instructing the terminal to request to camp on the network; The core network equipment authenticates the terminal and obtains a first authentication result. The core network device sends a second message to the second access network device, the second message indicating at least one of the following: authentication request, first authentication result, security command parameters; The terminal determines the coverage area of ​​the second access network device based on the first time information, and sends a second request to the second access network device. The second request is used to request random access and establish a radio resource control connection with the second access network device. Based on the authentication request, the second access network device sends a third request to the terminal, the third request being used to request authentication of the terminal; The terminal sends a second response to the second access network device, and the second response indicates the second authentication result. The second access network device sends third information to the terminal, the third information instructing the terminal to pass authentication, the third information being obtained based on a comparison of the first authentication result and the second authentication result; The second access network device sends a fourth message to the core network device, the fourth message instructing the terminal to pass authentication.

2. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The first access network device determines the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information based on ephemeris information; or The first access network device obtains the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information through the inter-satellite link.

3. The method as described in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: The terminal stores the non-access stratum context, the identifier of the second access network device, and the first time information.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The terminal determines the coverage area of ​​the second access network device reaching the terminal based on the first time information, including: The terminal starts a timer; When the timer reaches the time indicated by the first time information, the terminal searches for the second access network device to determine whether the second access network device has entered the terminal's coverage area.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The third information indicates that the terminal has passed authentication, and the third information also includes security command parameters.

6. A communication system, characterized in that, The communication system includes a terminal, a first access network device, a second access network device, and a core network device, wherein: The terminal is used to send a first request to the first access network device, the first request being used to request to camp on the network; The first access network device is used to send a first response to the terminal. The first response indicates the release of the connection between the first access network device and the terminal. The first response includes the identifier of the second access network device and first time information of the second access network device reaching the coverage area of ​​the terminal. The first access network device is further configured to send first information to the core network device, the first information instructing the terminal to request to camp on the network; The core network equipment is used to authenticate the terminal and obtain a first authentication result; The core network device is also used to send second information to the second access network device, the second information indicating at least one of the following: authentication request, first authentication result, security command parameters; The terminal is further configured to determine the coverage area of ​​the terminal reached by the second access network device based on the first time information, and send a second request to the second access network device. The second request is used to request random access and establish a radio resource control connection with the second access network device. The second access network device is further configured to send a third request to the terminal based on the authentication request, the third request being used to request authentication of the terminal; The terminal is also configured to send a second response to the second access network device, the second response indicating a second authentication result; The second access network device is further configured to send third information to the terminal, the third information instructing the terminal to pass authentication, the third information being obtained based on a comparison of the first authentication result and the second authentication result; The second access network device is also used to send fourth information to the core network device, the fourth information instructing the terminal to pass authentication.

7. The system as described in claim 6, characterized in that: The first access network device is further configured to determine the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information based on ephemeris information; or The first access network device is also used to obtain the identifier of the second access network device and the first time information through an inter-satellite link.

8. The system as described in claim 6 or 7, characterized in that: The terminal is also used to store the non-access stratum context, the identifier of the second access network device, and the first time information.

9. The system as described in any one of claims 6-8, characterized in that: The terminal is also used to start a timer; The terminal is also used to search for the second access network device when the duration of the timer reaches the time indicated by the first time information, so as to determine whether the second access network device has entered the coverage area of ​​the terminal.

10. The system as described in any one of claims 6-9, characterized in that, The third information indicates that the terminal has passed authentication, and the third information also includes security command parameters.

11. A chip, characterized in that, The chip is used to perform the method executed by the first access network device as described in any one of claims 1-5.

12. A chip, characterized in that, The chip is used to perform the method performed by the second access network device as described in any one of claims 1-5.

13. A chip, characterized in that, The chip is used to perform the method performed by the core network device as described in any one of claims 1-5.

14. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, implement the method executed by the first access network device as described in any one of claims 1-5.

15. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, implement the method performed by the second access network device as described in any one of claims 1-5.

16. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores a computer program or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, implement the method executed by the core network device as described in any one of claims 1-5.

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