Session management method and apparatus, and storage medium

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a session management method and apparatus, and a storage medium. The method comprises: managing a PDU session on the basis of subscribed energy consumption information, wherein the energy consumption information is used for indicating the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element, and the second network element is managed by a first network element. In the embodiments of the present disclosure, a PDU session is managed by means of subscribing to energy consumption information used for indicating the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element, thereby reducing energy consumption during the PDU session and increasing the resource utilization rate.

Description

Session management methods, devices, and storage media Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to session management methods, apparatus and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of mobile communication technology and renewable energy, the equipment involved in mobile communication can use renewable energy, thereby reducing carbon emissions and increasing the utilization of renewable energy.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] The solution provided in this disclosure addresses the problem of how to improve resource utilization during communication. The embodiments of this disclosure manage PDU sessions by subscribing to indicate the energy consumption of PDU (Packet Data Unit) sessions and / or second network elements, thereby saving energy consumption during PDU sessions and improving resource utilization.

[0005] This disclosure presents a session management method, apparatus, and storage medium.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a session management method is proposed, the method being executed by a first network element, the method comprising:

[0007] The PDU session is managed based on subscription-based energy consumption information, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element managed by the first network element.

[0008] This disclosure embodiment manages PDU sessions by subscribing to indicate the energy consumption of PDU sessions and / or second network elements, thereby saving energy consumption during PDU sessions and improving resource utilization.

[0009] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a session management method is proposed, the method being executed by a fifth network element, the method comprising: providing energy consumption information to a first network element, the energy consumption information being used to indicate the energy consumption of a PDU session and / or a second network element, the PDU session being managed by the first network element, and the second network element being managed by the first network element.

[0010] According to a third aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a session management method is proposed, the method being executed by a third network element, the method comprising:

[0011] The first network element is instructed to manage the PDU session, which is an energy-saving session, and the first network element is responsible for managing the PDU session.

[0012] According to a fourth aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a session management method is proposed, the method being executed by a third network element, the method comprising:

[0013] The third network element instructs the first network element to manage the PDU session;

[0014] The fifth network element provides energy consumption information to the first network element;

[0015] The first network element manages the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information.

[0016] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided for performing the session management method described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0017] According to a sixth aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a session management apparatus is provided, comprising:

[0018] The processing module is used to execute the session management method described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0019] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a network element is provided, comprising: one or more processors; wherein the processors are configured to perform the method described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0020] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is proposed, comprising: a first network element, a third network element, and a fifth network element, wherein the first network element is configured to implement the session management method described in the first aspect, the third network element is configured to implement the session management method described in the third aspect, and the fifth network element is configured to implement the session management method described in the second aspect.

[0021] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform a method as described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of this disclosure and form part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of this disclosure and, together with their descriptions, serve to explain the embodiments of this disclosure and do not constitute an improper limitation of the embodiments of this disclosure. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 2A is an interactive schematic diagram of a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2B is an interactive schematic diagram of a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 2C is an interactive schematic diagram of a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 3A is a schematic flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 3B is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 3C is a schematic flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 5A is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 5B is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 6A is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6B is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 6C is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first network element proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fifth network element proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 7C is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third network element proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 8A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0040] Figure 8B is a schematic diagram of the chip structure proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0041] This disclosure provides a session management method, apparatus, and storage medium.

[0042] According to a first aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a session management method is proposed, the method being executed by a first network element, the method comprising:

[0043] The PDU session is managed based on subscription-based energy consumption information, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element managed by the first network element.

[0044] In the above embodiments, PDU sessions are managed by subscribing to indicate the energy consumption of PDU sessions and / or second network elements, thereby saving energy consumption during PDU sessions and improving resource utilization.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0046] The system receives a first message sent by a third network element. The first message includes a first indication, which is used to indicate that the PDU session supports energy saving.

[0047] In the above embodiments, when establishing a PDU session, a first indication is used to indicate that the established PDU session is an energy-saving session. By establishing an energy-saving session, energy consumption is saved and resource utilization is improved.

[0048] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0049] Based on the first message, a fourth network element is determined, and the fourth network element is responsible for sending the data of the PDU session;

[0050] Establish or modify an N4 session with the identified fourth network element.

[0051] In the above embodiments, the network element responsible for transmitting PDU session data is selected through the first message, and an N4 session is established or modified with it, thereby improving the accuracy of establishing the N4 session.

[0052] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, determining the fourth network element based on the first message includes at least one of the following:

[0053] Based on the first message, the second network element supporting energy-saving services is determined to be the fourth network element;

[0054] The fourth network element is determined based on the first message and the energy consumption information.

[0055] In the above embodiments, by indicating information supporting energy-saving services or energy consumption information indicating energy consumption, the fourth network element can be determined, thereby enabling the selected fourth network element to support energy saving, thus saving energy consumption and improving resource utilization.

[0056] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0057] Send a first request to the fifth network element, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session, and / or, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element;

[0058] The system receives a first response from the fifth network element, which is used to indicate that the monitoring of the PDU session and / or the energy consumption of the second network element is successful.

[0059] In the above embodiments, the energy consumption of the PDU session is monitored by sending a request to the fifth network element, thereby improving the reliability of the monitored energy consumption of the PDU session.

[0060] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first request includes at least one of the following:

[0061] Triggering events, wherein the triggering events are used to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the PDU session, and / or to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the second network element;

[0062] The session identifier of the PDU session;

[0063] Information about the first network element;

[0064] Information about the fourth network element;

[0065] Energy consumption threshold, which is used to indicate the threshold of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element;

[0066] Energy consumption ratio threshold, which is used to indicate the proportion of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element.

[0067] In the above embodiments, the types of information carried in the first request are expanded to ensure the comprehensiveness of the information carried in the first request.

[0068] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0069] The second message sent by the fifth network element is received; the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition, and / or the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets the second condition.

[0070] In the above embodiments, when it is determined that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition and / or the energy consumption of the second network element meets the second condition, the message sent by the fifth network element is received, thereby improving the accuracy of sending notifications to the fifth network element.

[0071] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies a first condition, including:

[0072] The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session, where the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or,

[0073] The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the PDU session, where the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0074] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the energy consumption of the second network element satisfies a second condition, including:

[0075] The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the second network element, wherein the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or,

[0076] The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the second network element, where the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0077] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following:

[0078] The energy consumption information;

[0079] The identifier of the candidate fourth network element is used to indicate the network element to be reselected;

[0080] Candidate region information, which is used to indicate the path of the fourth network element.

[0081] In the above embodiments, the comprehensiveness of the second message is improved by carrying multiple types of information in the second message.

[0082] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the subscription-based energy consumption information management PDU session includes:

[0083] Based on the second message, the fourth network element is selected again.

[0084] In the above embodiments, if it is determined that the energy consumption of the PDU session or the second network element meets the conditions, the fourth network element can be reselected, and then the PDU session can be readjusted to save energy consumption.

[0085] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the subscription-based energy consumption information management PDU session includes:

[0086] The candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element, and / or the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element, and / or the first network element cannot adjust the PDU session.

[0087] A third message is sent to the third network element, the third message being used to instruct the first network element to be reselected.

[0088] In the above embodiments, if the first network element has limitations, the first network element is reselected, the PDU session is readjusted, the PDU session is modified, and thus the PDU session saves energy consumption.

[0089] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the third message includes at least one of the following:

[0090] The energy consumption information;

[0091] The identifier of the candidate fourth network element;

[0092] The candidate region information;

[0093] The identifier of the candidate first network element.

[0094] In the above embodiments, the comprehensiveness of the third message is improved by carrying multiple types of information in the third message.

[0095] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0096] Receive the fourth message sent by the third network element;

[0097] The fourth network element is selected based on the fourth message.

[0098] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth message includes at least one of the following:

[0099] The energy consumption information;

[0100] The candidate fourth network element;

[0101] The candidate region information;

[0102] The session identifier of the PDU session.

[0103] In the above embodiments, the selection of the fourth network element is achieved through the fifth message sent by the third network element, thereby improving the accuracy of the selected fourth network element.

[0104] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0105] Update the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

[0106] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a session management method, the method being executed by a fifth network element, the method comprising:

[0107] Energy consumption information is provided to a first network element, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of a PDU session and / or a second network element, wherein the PDU session is managed by the first network element and the second network element is managed by the first network element.

[0108] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0109] Receive a first request sent by a first network element, wherein the first request is used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or, wherein the first request is used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element;

[0110] Send a first response to the first network element, the first response being used to indicate successful monitoring of the PDU session and / or the energy consumption of the second network element.

[0111] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first request includes at least one of the following:

[0112] Triggering events, wherein the triggering events are used to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the PDU session, and / or to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the second network element;

[0113] The session identifier of the PDU session;

[0114] Information about the first network element;

[0115] Information about the fourth network element;

[0116] Energy consumption threshold, which is used to indicate the threshold of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element;

[0117] Energy consumption ratio threshold, which is used to indicate the proportion of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element.

[0118] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0119] Send a second message to the first network element; the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition, and / or, the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets the second condition.

[0120] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies a first condition, including:

[0121] The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session, where the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or,

[0122] The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the PDU session, where the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0123] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the energy consumption of the second network element satisfies a second condition, including:

[0124] The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the second network element, wherein the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or,

[0125] The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the second network element, where the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0126] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following:

[0127] The energy consumption information;

[0128] The identifier of the candidate fourth network element, wherein the identifier of the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection;

[0129] Candidate region information, which is used to indicate the path of the fourth network element.

[0130] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a session management method, which is executed by a third network element, and the method includes:

[0131] The first network element is instructed to manage the PDU session. The first network element manages the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or the second network element.

[0132] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, a receiving terminal sends a PDU session establishment request, the PDU session establishment request including a first capability, the first capability being used to indicate that the PDU session requested by the PDU session establishment request supports energy saving.

[0133] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0134] Based on the PDU session establishment request, the first network element that supports energy saving is selected.

[0135] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0136] Send a first message to the first network element. The first message includes a first indication, which is used to indicate that the PDU session supports energy saving.

[0137] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0138] The third message is received from the first network element; the third message is used to indicate the reselection of the first network element; the fourth message is sent when the candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the first network element cannot adjust the PDU session.

[0139] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the third message includes at least one of the following:

[0140] Energy consumption information

[0141] The identifier of the candidate fourth network element;

[0142] Candidate region information;

[0143] The identifier of the candidate first network element.

[0144] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0145] A fourth message is sent to the first network element, the fourth message being used by the first network element to reselect a fourth network element.

[0146] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth message includes at least one of the following:

[0147] Energy consumption information;

[0148] The candidate fourth network element;

[0149] The candidate region information;

[0150] The identifier of the candidate first network element;

[0151] Session identifier for PDU session.

[0152] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device for performing the session management method described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0153] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a session management device, which includes at least one of a transceiver module and a processing module; wherein the session management device is used to execute optional implementations of the first aspect, the second aspect, or the third aspect.

[0154] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a network element, including: one or more processors; wherein the network element is used to perform the method of any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0155] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0156] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product that, when executed by a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the method as described in any of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0157] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the method described in any of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0158] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry configured to perform the methods described in any of the first, second, or third aspects.

[0159] It is understood that the aforementioned communication equipment, communication system, storage medium, program product, etc., are all used to execute the methods proposed in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects they can achieve can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0160] This disclosure presents a session management method. In some embodiments, the terms "session management method" and "information processing method," "communication method," etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0161] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments. In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be mutually referenced. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0162] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0163] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0164] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0165] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of A or B, at least one of A and B”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0166] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether there is a branch B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether there is a branch A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0167] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether a branch B exists); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether a branch A exists); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0168] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "network element," the ordinal number preceding "network element" in "first network element" and "second network element" does not restrict the position or order of the "network elements." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "network elements" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first network element" and "second network element." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0169] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0170] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0171] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0172] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0173] In some embodiments, devices, etc., may be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Terms such as “device,” “equipment,” “circuit,” “network element,” “network function,” “network device,” “function,” “node,” “unit,” “section,” “system,” “network,” “chip,” “chip system,” “entity,” and “subject” are interchangeable.

[0174] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in the network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0175] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)," "radio access network device (RAN device)," "base station (BS)," "radio base station," "fixed station," "node," "access point," "transmission point (TP)," "reception point (RP)," "transmission / reception point (TRP)," "panel," "antenna panel," "antenna array," "cell," "macro cell," "small cell," "femto cell," "pico cell," "sector," "cell group," "serving cell," "carrier," "component carrier," and "bandwidth part (BWP)" can be used interchangeably.

[0176] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", "subscriber station", "mobile unit", "subscriber unit", "wireless unit", "remote unit", "mobile device", "wireless device", "wireless communication device", "remote device", "mobile subscriber station", "access terminal", "mobile terminal", "wireless terminal", "remote terminal", "handset", "user agent", "mobile client", and "client" can be used interchangeably.

[0177] In some embodiments, access network devices, core network devices, or network devices can be replaced by terminals. For example, embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to structures where communication between access network devices, core network devices, or network devices and terminals is replaced by communication between multiple terminals (e.g., device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the structure can also be configured such that the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. Furthermore, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "sidelink"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can be replaced with sidelink channel, and uplink link, downlink, etc., can be replaced with sidelink link.

[0178] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, core network device, or network device may also be configured to have all or some of the functions of the terminal.

[0179] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0180] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0181] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0182] As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 includes a terminal 101, an access network device 102, and a core network device 103.

[0183] In some embodiments, terminal 101 includes, for example, at least one of the following: mobile phone, wearable device, Internet of Things device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home, but is not limited thereto.

[0184] In some embodiments, the access network device 102 may be a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: an evolved Node B (eNB), a next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), a next-generation Node B (gNB), a node B (NB), a home node B (HNB), a home evolved node B (HeNB), a wireless backhaul device, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a base band unit (BBU), a mobile switching center, a base station in a 6G communication system, an open RAN, a cloud RAN, a base station in other communication systems, and an access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0185] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0186] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0187] In some embodiments, the core network device 103 may be a single device, including a first network element 1031, a second network element 1032, etc., or it may be multiple devices or a group of devices, each including all or part of the first network element 1031, the second network element 1032, etc. Network elements may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of the following: Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G Core Network (5GCN), Next Generation Core (NGC), and 6G Core Network (6GCN).

[0188] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 is, for example, a Session Management Function (SMF).

[0189] In some embodiments, the first network element 1031 is used for session management. Optionally, the first network element is responsible for session management, IP address allocation and management of terminals, selection and control of UPFs, configuration of traffic control in UPFs, routing traffic to appropriate destinations, policy enforcement and QoS control, and downlink data notification. The name of the first network element in these embodiments is not limited to this.

[0190] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 is, for example, a User Plane Function (UPF).

[0191] In some embodiments, the second network element 1032 is used as an anchor point for intra-system and inter-system movement, an external PDU session point connected to the data network, a packet routing and forwarding unit, a packet inspection and user plane policy rule enforcement unit, a traffic usage report, and an uplink classifier, used to support routing service flows to the data network, support branch points for multi-homed PDU sessions, perform QoS processing for the user plane, uplink service verification (SDF to QoS flow mapping), or trigger downlink packet buffering and downlink data notification. The name of the second network element in this embodiment is not limited to this.

[0192] In some embodiments, the third network element 1033 is, for example, an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0193] In some embodiments, the third network element 1033 is used for non-access stratum (NAS) signaling terminals, NAS signaling security, access stratum security control, inter-core network node signaling for mobility between 3GPP access networks, idle mode UE reachability (including paging retransmission control and execution), registration area management, supporting intra-system and inter-system mobility, access authentication, access authorization, mobility management control (subscription and policy), supporting network slicing, and SMF selection. The name of the second network element in these embodiments is not limited to this.

[0194] In some embodiments, the fourth network element and the second network element are of the same type. The fourth network element will not be described in detail in this disclosure.

[0195] In some embodiments, the fifth network element 1034 is, for example, an energy control function (ECF).

[0196] In some embodiments, the fifth network element is used to monitor the energy consumption of a PDU session or a core network element, or to monitor the energy consumption ratio of a PDU session or a core network element.

[0197] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0198] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1 are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1, or may include other main bodies outside of FIG1. ​​The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. Each main body may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection can be in any way, it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection, it can be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0199] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0200] Figure 2A is an interactive schematic diagram of a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2A, the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which includes:

[0201] Step S2101: The first network element sends a first request to the fifth network element.

[0202] In some embodiments, the fifth network element receives a first request sent by the first network element.

[0203] In some embodiments, the first network element supports energy-saving services. Alternatively, it can be understood that the first network element can be used to manage energy-saving sessions.

[0204] In some embodiments, the first request is used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element. Optionally, the energy consumption can be understood as the energy consumption generated by the second network element during operation, or it can also be understood as the energy consumption generated by the second network element during operation over a period of time. Optionally, the second network element's operation process refers to the process by which the second network element transmits data for the PDU session it is responsible for or other storage operation processes. Optionally, the energy includes renewable energy and non-renewable energy.

[0205] In some embodiments, the first request includes at least one of the following: a triggering event, information about the first network element, an energy consumption threshold, and an energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0206] In some embodiments, the triggering event is used to indicate an event that triggers the fifth network element to transmit the energy consumption of the second network element. Alternatively, the triggering event can also be understood as an event that triggers feedback when the fifth network element monitors the energy consumption of the first network element. Optionally, the triggering event is indicated by an event identifier. For example, event identifier A is used to indicate triggering event A, and event identifier B is used to indicate triggering event B.

[0207] In some embodiments, the information of the first network element is used to indicate which network element sent the first request.

[0208] In some embodiments, the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate the threshold of energy consumed by the second network element, or it can be understood as the threshold at which the fifth network element can report the energy consumption of the second network element.

[0209] In some embodiments, the energy ratio threshold is used to indicate the proportion of energy consumed by the second grid element, or it can be understood as a proportion threshold at which the fifth grid element can report the energy consumption of the second grid element. Optionally, the energy ratio includes the proportion of renewable energy and non-renewable energy.

[0210] In step S2102, the fifth network element sends a first response to the first network element.

[0211] In some embodiments, the first network element receives a first response sent by the fifth network element.

[0212] In some embodiments, the first response is used to respond to the first request. Alternatively, the first response can also be understood as indicating that the fifth network element has successfully monitored the energy consumption of the second network element.

[0213] In some embodiments, the first response is a confirmation message, or the first response includes a subscription identifier, which is used to instruct the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element.

[0214] It should be noted that steps S2101-S2102 are optional. Steps S2101-S2102 have already been executed when subsequent steps are performed, and they do not need to be executed again in this embodiment of the disclosure. Alternatively, it can be understood that subsequent steps do not need to be executed on the basis of executing steps S2101-S2102.

[0215] In step S2103, the fifth network element sends a second message to the first network element.

[0216] In some embodiments, the first network element receives a second message sent by the fifth network element.

[0217] In some embodiments, the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets a second condition. Optionally, the energy consumption of the second network element meeting the second condition includes: the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than an energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than an energy consumption ratio threshold. Optionally, the energy consumption of the second network element being greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or the energy ratio of the second network element being greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold includes: the energy consumption of the second network element being greater than the energy consumption threshold, the energy ratio of the second network element being greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold, and the energy consumption of the second network element being greater than both the energy consumption threshold and the energy ratio of the second network element being greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0218] In some embodiments, the energy ratio of the second grid element refers to the ratio of non-renewable energy to renewable energy. Alternatively, it can also be the proportion of renewable energy.

[0219] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element, and candidate area information.

[0220] In some embodiments, energy consumption information includes at least one of the following: energy consumption, energy ratio, and energy information of the second network element.

[0221] In some embodiments, the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection. It should be noted that the candidate fourth network element and the second network element in this embodiment are of the same type. For example, the candidate fourth network element is a UPF network element.

[0222] In some embodiments, candidate area information is used to indicate the area that the candidate fourth network element is responsible for, or it can also be understood as the area that the candidate fourth network element manages. This disclosure does not limit the description in this regard.

[0223] In some embodiments, step S2103 can be understood as the fifth network element providing energy consumption information to the first network element.

[0224] In step S2104, the first network element sends a fourth response to the fifth network element.

[0225] In some embodiments, the fifth network element receives a fourth response sent by the first network element.

[0226] In some embodiments, the fourth response is used in response to the second message. Optionally, the fourth response is an acknowledgment message.

[0227] It should be noted that the execution order of steps S2103-S2104 in this embodiment is not limited, and steps S2103-S2104 can be executed in subsequent steps. For example, they can be executed before step S2114 or after step S2115, or they can be executed before or after other steps. This embodiment does not limit this.

[0228] In step S2105, the terminal sends a PDU session establishment request to the third network element.

[0229] In some embodiments, the third network element receives a PDU session establishment request sent by the terminal.

[0230] In some embodiments, the PDU session establishment request includes a first capability, which indicates that the PDU session requested by the PDU session establishment request is an energy-saving session. Optionally, an energy-saving session can also be understood as an energy-efficient session.

[0231] In some embodiments, a PDU session establishment request is represented by a PDU session establishment request.

[0232] Step S2106: The third network element selects the first network element that supports energy saving based on the PDU session establishment request.

[0233] In some embodiments, if the PDU session establishment request received by the third network element includes a first capability, then the network element that supports energy saving is selected from multiple network elements as the first network element through the first capability.

[0234] In some embodiments, the third network element determines whether to select a first network element that supports energy saving based on whether the terminal's subscription data contains energy consumption information. Optionally, if the terminal's subscription data contains energy consumption information, it is determined that the terminal is authorized to use energy efficiency services, and the third network element selects a first network element that supports energy saving. Optionally, if the terminal's subscription data does not contain energy consumption information, it is determined that the terminal is not authorized to use energy efficiency services, and the third network element may not select a first network element that supports energy saving or refuse to establish a PDU session that supports energy saving services.

[0235] In step S2107, the third network element sends the first message to the first network element.

[0236] In some embodiments, the first network element receives a first message sent by the third network element.

[0237] In some embodiments, the first message includes a first indication. Optionally, the first indication is used to indicate that the PDU session supports power saving.

[0238] In some embodiments, the first message is an SM_context_create request.

[0239] Step S2108: Select the sixth network element as the first network element.

[0240] Step S2109: The first network element and the sixth network element establish an SM strategy association.

[0241] In some embodiments, the first network element performs an SM policy association establishment process to establish an SM policy association with the sixth network element and obtain the default PCC rules for the PDU session.

[0242] In some embodiments, the sixth network element is a PCF network element.

[0243] In step S2110, the first network element determines the fourth network element based on the first message.

[0244] In some embodiments, the first network element may select at least one fourth network element based on the first message. Optionally, the fourth network element is responsible for sending data for the PDU session.

[0245] In some embodiments, the first network element may select at least one fourth network element based on pre-stored energy consumption information.

[0246] In some embodiments, the first network element can determine the fourth network element in multiple ways. For example, the first network element can determine the second network element supporting energy-saving services as the fourth network element based on the first message; or, for another example, the first network element can determine the fourth network element based on the first message and energy consumption information.

[0247] In some embodiments, the second network element may include network elements that support energy-saving services and network elements that do not support energy-saving services. Therefore, the second network element that supports energy-saving services can be identified as the fourth network element.

[0248] In some embodiments, the first network element may obtain energy consumption information from the fifth network element, and then select at least one fourth network element based on the obtained energy consumption information.

[0249] In some embodiments, the energy consumption information is used to indicate the energy consumption of the second network element, and based on the energy consumption information, the second network element with lower energy consumption or a better energy consumption ratio can be identified as the fourth network element.

[0250] Step S2111: The first network element establishes or modifies an N4 session with the determined fourth network element.

[0251] In some embodiments, if the first network element and the fourth network element have not established an N4 session, then the first network element and the fourth network element shall establish an N4 session.

[0252] In some embodiments, if the first network element and the fourth network element have established an N4 session, the first network element modifies the N4 session that matches the current PDU session.

[0253] In step S2112, the first network element sends a first request to the fifth network element.

[0254] In some embodiments, the fifth network element receives a first request sent by the first network element. Optionally, the first request is an Energy efficiency create request.

[0255] In some embodiments, the first request is used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session. Optionally, the energy consumption of the PDU session can be understood as the energy consumption of the network element / device used to process the PDU session.

[0256] In some embodiments, the first request includes at least one of the following: a trigger event, a session identifier of the PDU session, information of the first network element, information of the fourth network element, an energy consumption threshold, and an energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0257] The triggering event is used to indicate the energy consumption that triggers the fifth network element to send a PDU session. Alternatively, it can be understood as the event that triggers feedback when the fifth network element monitors the energy consumption of the PDU session.

[0258] In some embodiments, the session identifier of the PDU session is used to indicate the PDU session for which energy consumption needs to be monitored.

[0259] In some embodiments, the information of the first network element is used to indicate the first network element. For example, if the first network element is an SMF network element, then the information of the first network element is used to indicate the SMF, such as the SMF instance ID, SMF address information, etc.

[0260] In some embodiments, the information of the fourth network element is used to indicate the network element responsible for the PDU session. It should be noted that the fourth network element refers to the fourth network element determined in step S2110 above.

[0261] In some embodiments, the information of the fourth network element may also be referred to as path information, or it may be understood as the information of the selected fourth network element.

[0262] In some embodiments, the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate the threshold at which the fifth network element can report the energy consumption of a PDU session.

[0263] In some embodiments, the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a proportion threshold of energy consumption that the fifth network element can report on for a PDU session. Optionally, the energy proportion includes the proportion of renewable energy and non-renewable energy.

[0264] It should be noted that steps S2101 and S2112 in this embodiment both involve a first request. The first request in these two steps can be two separate requests, sent by the first network element. For example, step S2101 may be first request A, and step S2112 may be first request B. Alternatively, step S2101 may be the first request, and step S2112 may be the second request, or step S2101 may be the second request, and step S2112 may be the first request. This embodiment does not limit the names of the requests in these two steps.

[0265] In some embodiments, the first request in step S2101 and step S2112 of this disclosure may be the same request, and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0266] In step S2113, the fifth network element sends a first response to the first network element.

[0267] In some embodiments, the first network element receives a first response sent by the fifth network element. Optionally, the first response is used to respond to a first message. Alternatively, it can be understood as the first response being used to indicate successful monitoring of energy consumption of the PDU session. In some embodiments, the first response is an acknowledgment message, such as an ACK message. Alternatively, the first response includes a subscription identifier, which is used to instruct the fifth network element on the task of monitoring the energy consumption of the PDU session.

[0268] It should be noted that steps S2102 and S2113 in this embodiment both involve a first response. The first response in these two steps can be two separate responses, sent by the first network element. For example, step S2102 may be the first response A, and step S2113 may be the first response B. Alternatively, step S2102 may be the first response, and step S2113 may be the second response, or step S2102 may be the second response, and step S2113 may be the first response. This embodiment does not limit the names of the responses in these two steps.

[0269] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first response of step S2102 and step S2113 may be the same response, and this disclosure does not limit this.

[0270] In step S2114, the fifth network element sends a second message to the first network element.

[0271] In some embodiments, the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition.

[0272] Optionally, the energy consumption of a PDU session satisfies a first condition, including: the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than an energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than an energy consumption ratio threshold. Optionally, the energy consumption of a PDU session being greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or the energy ratio of the PDU session being greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold includes: the energy consumption of the PDU session being greater than the energy consumption threshold, the energy ratio of the PDU session being greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold, and the energy consumption of the PDU session being greater than both the energy consumption threshold and the energy ratio of the PDU session being greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0273] In some embodiments, the energy ratio of a PDU session refers to the ratio of non-renewable energy to renewable energy. Alternatively, it can also be the proportion of renewable energy.

[0274] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element, where the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection, candidate area information, and application information.

[0275] In some embodiments, the fifth network element selects a candidate fourth network element based on monitored core network element information or local policies. Optionally, the fifth network element reselects a fourth network element with lower energy consumption based on pre-stored or acquired energy consumption information of each candidate fourth network element.

[0276] In some embodiments, the fifth network element selects candidate region information based on monitored core network element information or local policies. Optionally, the fifth network element determines candidate region information based on pre-stored or acquired core network element information.

[0277] In some embodiments, the fifth network element provides application information corresponding to the PDU session, such as DNN information.

[0278] In some embodiments, step S2114 can be understood as the fifth network element providing energy consumption information to the first network element.

[0279] In step S2115, the first network element sends a second response to the fifth network element.

[0280] In some embodiments, the fifth network element receives a second response sent by the first network element.

[0281] In some embodiments, the second response is used to respond to the second message. Optionally, the second response is an acknowledgment message. For example, the second response is an ACK message.

[0282] In some embodiments, the process performed by the first network element in the above steps can be understood as managing PDU sessions based on subscribed energy consumption information. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the fifth network element in the above steps can be understood as providing energy consumption information. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the third network element in the above steps can be understood as instructing the first network element to manage the PDU sessions.

[0283] It should be noted that in the embodiments of this disclosure, steps S2114-S2115 can be executed independently, and it is not limited to executing steps S2114-S2115 after executing step S2113.

[0284] The signal processing method disclosed herein may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2115. For example, at least one of steps S2101 to S2115 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0285] In some embodiments, at least one of steps S2101-S21115 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0286] In some embodiments, other alternative implementations may be described before or after the specification corresponding to FIG2A.

[0287] In some embodiments, the names of information, etc., are not limited to the names described in the embodiments. Terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "symbol", "codebook", "codeword", "codepoint", "bit", "data", "program", and "chip" can be used interchangeably.

[0288] In some embodiments, “get,” “obtain,” “receive,” “transmit,” “bidirectional transmission,” and “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably and can be interpreted as receiving from other entities, obtaining from protocols, obtaining from higher layers, obtaining through self-processing, or autonomous implementation, among other meanings.

[0289] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0290] In some embodiments, terms such as "certain," "preset," "default," "set," "indicated," "a certain," "any," and "first" can be used interchangeably. "Certain A," "preset A," "default A," "set A," "indicated A," "a certain A," "any A," and "first A" can be interpreted as A pre-defined in a protocol or the like, or as A obtained through setting, configuration, or instruction, or as specific A, a certain A, any A, or first A, but are not limited thereto.

[0291] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0292] Figure 2B is an interactive schematic diagram of a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2B, the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which includes:

[0293] In step S2201, the fifth network element sends a second message to the first network element.

[0294] In some embodiments, the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition.

[0295] Optionally, the energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies a first condition, including: the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than an energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than an energy consumption ratio threshold. It should be noted that the first condition in this embodiment is similar to step S2114 in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0296] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element, where the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection, candidate area information, and application information.

[0297] In step S2202, the first network element sends a second response to the fifth network element.

[0298] In some embodiments, the fifth network element receives a second response sent by the first network element.

[0299] In some embodiments, the second response is used to respond to the second message.

[0300] It should be noted that steps S2201-S2202 in this embodiment are optional steps. In another embodiment, steps S2201-S2202 may not be performed.

[0301] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, steps S2103-S2104 in the above embodiment may be executed before step S2203 or before step S2201 to obtain the third message. Alternatively, steps S2103-S2104 may not be executed in this embodiment of the present disclosure, and this embodiment of the present disclosure does not limit this.

[0302] Step S2203: The first network element and the sixth network element interact to update the SM strategy.

[0303] In this embodiment of the disclosure, when the first network element receives the second message, it can determine that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition based on the second message, and thus can update the SM policy with the PCF.

[0304] In step S2204, the first network element reselects the fourth network element based on the second message.

[0305] In some embodiments, the first network element queries the NRF to re-find the candidate fourth network element, and then re-selects from the candidate fourth network element.

[0306] In some embodiments, the first network element selects a candidate fourth network element based on candidate fourth network element information provided by the fifth network element or a local policy. The candidate fourth network element information may be included in a second message. Optionally, the fifth network element reselects a fourth network element with lower energy consumption based on the energy consumption information of each candidate fourth network element stored in advance, and provides the selected candidate fourth network element to the first network element.

[0307] In some embodiments, the first network element selects a candidate fourth network element based on the energy consumption information of the second network element obtained in advance, according to a local policy. Optionally, the first network element selects a fourth network element with lower energy consumption based on the energy consumption information of the second network element obtained in advance, and identifies it as a candidate fourth network element.

[0308] Step S2205: The first network element establishes / modifies an N4 session with the fourth network element.

[0309] Step S2206: The first network element updates the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

[0310] In some embodiments, the first network element sends an update request to the fifth network element, the update request being used to update the subscription of the PDU session. Optionally, the update request includes identification information of the reselected fourth network element, the PDU session identifier, and the event identifier.

[0311] In some embodiments, the first network element updates the subscription of the PDU session in the fifth network element based on the event identifier, the PDU session identifier, and the identifier information of the fourth network element used to indicate reselection.

[0312] In some embodiments, the process performed by the first network element in the above steps can be understood as managing PDU sessions based on subscribed energy consumption information. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the fifth network element in the above steps can be understood as providing energy consumption information. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the third network element in the above steps can be understood as instructing the first network element to manage the PDU sessions.

[0313] In the above embodiments, the reselection of the fourth network element can be achieved without changing the SMF, ensuring the normal operation of the PDU session and thus ensuring communication reliability.

[0314] Figure 2C is an interactive schematic diagram of a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2C, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a session management method, which includes:

[0315] Step S2301: The fifth network element sends a second message to the first network element A.

[0316] In some embodiments, the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition.

[0317] Optionally, the energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies a first condition, including: the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than an energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than an energy consumption ratio threshold. It should be noted that the first condition in this embodiment is similar to step S2114 in the above embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0318] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element, where the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection, candidate area information, and application information.

[0319] In step S2302, the first network element A sends a second response to the fifth network element.

[0320] In some embodiments, the fifth network element receives a second response sent by the first network element.

[0321] In some embodiments, the second response is used to respond to the second message. Optionally, the second response is an acknowledgment message. For example, the acknowledgment message is an ACK message.

[0322] It should be noted that steps S2301-S2302 in this embodiment are optional steps. In another embodiment, steps S2301-S2302 may not be performed.

[0323] It should be noted that, in this embodiment of the present disclosure, before step S2303 or before step S2301, steps S2103-S2104 in the above embodiment may also be executed to obtain the second message. Alternatively, steps S2103-S2104 may not be executed in this embodiment of the present disclosure, and this embodiment of the present disclosure does not limit this.

[0324] In step S2303, the candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element A, and / or the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element A, and / or the first network element A cannot adjust the PDU session, and the first network element A sends a third message to the third network element.

[0325] In some embodiments, the third message is used to instruct the reselection of the first network element.

[0326] The fourth message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element, candidate area information, and identifier of candidate first network element.

[0327] In some embodiments, energy consumption information includes at least one of the energy consumption and / or energy ratio of the second network element and the energy consumption and / or energy ratio of the PDU session.

[0328] In some embodiments, the candidate fourth network element may be carried in the second message, or the candidate fourth network element may be determined by the first network element itself. This disclosure does not limit this.

[0329] In some embodiments, the candidate region information is used to indicate the region of the candidate fourth network element, or it can be understood as the candidate region information being used to indicate the candidate fourth network element. In some embodiments, the candidate region information may be carried in the second message, or it may be determined by the first network element itself.

[0330] In some embodiments, the third network element may independently determine the existing candidate first network element, or the candidate first network element may be determined based on the candidate area information, or it may be provided by the fifth network element, or it may be provided by the first network element A.

[0331] Step S2304: The third network element reselects the first network element based on the third message.

[0332] In some embodiments, if the third message includes the identifier of the candidate first network element, the third network element may select the first network element indicated by the identifier of the candidate first network element.

[0333] In some embodiments, the third network element determines the first network element within the managed area based on the area range, and then selects a first network element from the first network elements as the reselected first network element (first network element B).

[0334] In some embodiments, the third network element selects the first network element in the candidate region as the first network element (first network element B) after reselection, based on the obtained candidate region information.

[0335] In step S2305, the third network element sends a fourth message to the first network element B.

[0336] In some embodiments, the fourth message is used for the first network element B to reselect the fourth network element.

[0337] In some embodiments, the fourth message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element, candidate area information, identifier of first network element A, and session identifier of PDU session.

[0338] In some embodiments, energy consumption information includes at least one of the energy consumption and / or energy ratio of the second network element and the energy consumption and / or energy ratio of the PDU session.

[0339] In some embodiments, the candidate fourth network element may be carried in the second message, or the candidate fourth network element may be determined by the first network element B itself. This disclosure does not limit this.

[0340] In some embodiments, candidate area information is used to indicate the area information of a candidate fourth network element, or it can be understood as candidate area information being used to indicate a candidate fourth network element.

[0341] In some embodiments, the third network element provides the identification information of the first network element A to the first network element B, so that the first network element B can obtain the context information of the PDU session stored in the first network element A.

[0342] In some embodiments, the session identifier of the PDU session is used to indicate the PDU session that needs to be managed. In some embodiments, the session identifier of the PDU session is provided by a second message or determined by a third network element itself; this disclosure does not limit this.

[0343] It should be noted that the first network element B in this embodiment is the reselected network element.

[0344] Step S2306: The first network element B obtains the PDU session information of the first network element A.

[0345] In some embodiments, the first network element B invokes the PDU session context service operation to obtain the PDU session context stored in the first network element A.

[0346] Step S2307: The first network element B executes the SM policy association establishment process to establish an SM measurement association with the sixth network element and obtains the PCC rules of the PDU session.

[0347] In step S2308, the first network element B selects the fourth network element based on either the fourth message or the second message.

[0348] In some embodiments, the first network element B selects the fourth network element with better energy consumption based on the energy consumption information of the candidate fourth network elements included in the fourth message.

[0349] In some embodiments, the fourth message also includes energy consumption information, candidate fourth network element and candidate area information indicated by the second message. Therefore, the first network element B selects the fourth network element with better energy consumption based on the energy consumption information of the candidate fourth network element.

[0350] In some embodiments, the first network element B can also select a fourth network element based on the second message. The first network element B selects the network element with better energy consumption as the fourth network element based on the energy consumption information provided by the fifth network element.

[0351] Step S2309: The first network element B establishes or modifies the N4 session with the fourth network element.

[0352] In step S2310, the first network element B sends a response to the third network element in response to the fourth message.

[0353] Step S2311: The third network element releases the PDU session of the first network element A.

[0354] Step S2312: The first network element B updates the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

[0355] In some embodiments, the first network element B sends an update request to the fifth network element. Optionally, the update request is used to instruct the updating of the PDU session. Optionally, the update request includes information of the first network element B and information of the updated fourth network element.

[0356] In some embodiments, the process performed by the first network element in the above steps can be understood as managing PDU sessions based on subscribed energy consumption information. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the fifth network element in the above steps can be understood as providing energy consumption information. In some embodiments, the steps performed by the third network element in the above steps can be understood as instructing the first network element to manage the PDU sessions.

[0357] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein use first network element A and first network element B as examples for illustration. In some embodiments, first network element A may also be referred to as the first network element before reselection, and first network element B may be referred to as the first network element after reselection. Alternatively, first network element B may be understood as the seventh network element. The embodiments disclosed herein do not limit the names of first network element A and first network element B.

[0358] Figure 3A is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3A, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0359] Step S3101: The first network element sends a first request to the fifth network element.

[0360] Step S3101 is similar to step S2101 above, and will not be described again here.

[0361] In step S3102, the first network element sends a fourth response to the fifth network element.

[0362] Step S3102 is similar to step S2104 above, and will not be described again here.

[0363] Step S3103: Select the sixth network element as the first network element.

[0364] Step S3103 is similar to step S2107 above, and will not be described again here.

[0365] Step S3104: The first network element and the sixth network element establish an SM strategy association.

[0366] Step S3104 is similar to step S2109 above, and will not be described again here.

[0367] In step S3105, the first network element determines the fourth network element based on the first message.

[0368] Step S3105 is similar to step S2110 above, and will not be described again here.

[0369] Step S3106: The first network element establishes or modifies an N4 session with the determined fourth network element.

[0370] Step S3106 is similar to step S2111 above, and will not be described again here.

[0371] Step S3107: The first network element sends a first request to the fifth network element.

[0372] Step S3107 is similar to step S2112 above, and will not be described again here.

[0373] In step S3108, the first network element sends a first response to the fifth network element.

[0374] Step S3108 is similar to step S2115 above, and will not be described again here.

[0375] It should be noted that the steps performed by the first network element in the above embodiments can all be understood as the first network element managing the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information.

[0376] Figure 3B is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3B, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0377] Step S3201: The first network element sends a first response to the fifth network element.

[0378] Step S3201 is similar to step S2202 above, and will not be described again here.

[0379] Step S3202: The first network element and the sixth network element interact to update the SM strategy.

[0380] Step S3202 is similar to step S2203 above, and will not be described again here.

[0381] In step S3203, the first network element reselects the fourth network element based on the second message.

[0382] Step S3203 is similar to step S2204 above, and will not be described again here.

[0383] Step S3204: The first network element establishes / modifies an N4 session with the fourth network element.

[0384] Step S3204 is similar to step S2205 above, and will not be described again here.

[0385] Step S3205: The first network element updates the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

[0386] Step S3205 is similar to step S2206 above, and will not be described again here.

[0387] It should be noted that the steps performed by the first network element in the above embodiments can all be understood as the first network element managing the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information.

[0388] Figure 3C is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3C, the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which is executed by a first network element. The method includes:

[0389] Step S3301: The first network element A sends a first response to the fifth network element.

[0390] Step S3301 is similar to step S2302 above, and will not be described again here.

[0391] In step S3302, the candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element A, and / or the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element A, and / or the first network element A cannot adjust the PDU session, and the first network element A sends a third message to the third network element.

[0392] Step S3302 is similar to step S2303 above, and will not be described again here.

[0393] Step S3303: The first network element B obtains the PDU session information of the first network element A.

[0394] Step S3303 is similar to step S2306 above, and will not be described again here.

[0395] Step S3304: The first network element B executes the SM policy association establishment process to establish an SM measurement association with the sixth network element and obtains the PCC rules of the PDU session.

[0396] Step S3304 is similar to step S2307 above, and will not be described again here.

[0397] In step S3305, the first network element B selects the fourth network element based on the fourth message.

[0398] Step S3305 is similar to step S2308 above, and will not be described again here.

[0399] Step S3306: The first network element B establishes or modifies the N4 session with the fourth network element.

[0400] Step S3306 is similar to step S2309 above, and will not be described again here.

[0401] In step S3307, the first network element B sends a response to the third network element in response to the fourth message.

[0402] Step S3307 is similar to step S2310 above, and will not be described again here.

[0403] Step S3308: The first network element B updates the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

[0404] Step S3308 is similar to step S2312 above, and will not be described again here.

[0405] It should be noted that the steps performed by the first network element in the above embodiments can all be understood as the first network element managing the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information.

[0406] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to a session management method performed by a first network element. The method includes: the first network element managing a PDU session based on subscribed energy consumption information, wherein the energy consumption information is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element, the second network element being managed by the first network element.

[0407] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a first message sent by a third network element, the first message including a first indication, the first indication being used to indicate that the PDU session supports energy saving.

[0408] In some embodiments, the method further includes: determining a fourth network element based on the first message, the fourth network element being responsible for sending data of the PDU session; and establishing or modifying an N4 session with the determined fourth network element.

[0409] In some embodiments, determining the fourth network element based on the first message includes at least one of the following: determining the fourth network element as a second network element that supports energy-saving services based on the first message; or determining the fourth network element based on the first message and the energy consumption information.

[0410] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a first request to a fifth network element, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session, and / or, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element; receiving a first response sent by the fifth network element, the first response being used to indicate that monitoring the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or the second network element was successful.

[0411] In some embodiments, the first request includes at least one of the following: a trigger event, the trigger event being used to indicate an event that triggers the fifth network element to send the energy consumption of the PDU session, and / or an event that triggers the fifth network element to send the energy consumption of the second network element; a session identifier of the PDU session; information of the first network element; information of the fourth network element; an energy consumption threshold, the energy consumption threshold being used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element; and an energy consumption ratio threshold, the energy consumption ratio threshold being used to indicate a threshold for the proportion of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element.

[0412] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a second message sent by the fifth network element; the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets a first condition, and / or the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets a second condition.

[0413] In some embodiments, the energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies a first condition, including: the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session, and the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy ratio of the PDU session, and the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0414] In some embodiments, the energy consumption of the second network element satisfies a second condition, including: the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the second network element, and the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy ratio of the second network element, and the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0415] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: the energy consumption information; the identifier of the candidate fourth network element, which is used to indicate the network element to be reselected; and candidate area information, which is used to indicate the path of the fourth network element.

[0416] In some embodiments, the subscription-based energy consumption information management PDU session includes: reselecting the fourth network element based on the second message.

[0417] In some embodiments, the subscription-based energy consumption information management PDU session includes: a candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element, and / or, candidate area information is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the first network element cannot adjust the PDU session, and a third message is sent to the third network element, the third message being used to indicate reselection of the first network element.

[0418] In some embodiments, the third message includes at least one of the following: the energy consumption information; the identifier of the candidate fourth network element; the candidate area information; and the identifier of the candidate first network element.

[0419] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a fourth message sent by a third network element; and selecting the fourth network element based on the fourth message.

[0420] In some embodiments, the fourth message includes at least one of the following: the energy consumption information; the candidate fourth network element; the candidate area information; and the session identifier of the PDU session.

[0421] In some embodiments, the method further includes: updating the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

[0422] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which is executed by a fifth network element. The method includes:

[0423] Step S4101: The fifth network element sends a first response to the first network element.

[0424] Step S4101 is similar to steps S2102 and S2113 above, and will not be described again here.

[0425] In step S4102, the fifth network element sends a second message to the first network element.

[0426] Step S4102 is similar to steps S2103, S2201 or S2301 mentioned above, and will not be described again here.

[0427] It should be noted that the steps performed by the fifth network element can all be understood as the fifth network element providing energy consumption information to the first network element.

[0428] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to a session management method performed by a fifth network element. The method includes: the fifth network element providing energy consumption information to a first network element, the energy consumption information being used to indicate the energy consumption of a PDU session and / or a second network element, the PDU session being managed by the first network element, and the second network element being managed by the first network element.

[0429] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a first request sent by a first network element, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element; sending a first response to the first network element, the first response being used to indicate that monitoring the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or the second network element was successful.

[0430] In some embodiments, the first request includes at least one of the following: a trigger event, the trigger event being used to indicate an event that triggers the fifth network element to send the energy consumption of the PDU session, and / or an event that triggers the fifth network element to send the energy consumption of the second network element; a session identifier of the PDU session; information of the first network element; information of the fourth network element; an energy consumption threshold, the energy consumption threshold being used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element; and an energy consumption ratio threshold, the energy consumption ratio threshold being used to indicate a threshold for the proportion of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element.

[0431] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a second message to a first network element; the second message being used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets a first condition, and / or, the second message being used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets a second condition.

[0432] In some embodiments, the energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies a first condition, including: the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session, and the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy ratio of the PDU session, and the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0433] In some embodiments, the energy consumption of the second network element satisfies a second condition, including: the energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the second network element, and the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, the energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy ratio of the second network element, and the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

[0434] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following: the energy consumption information; the identifier of the candidate fourth network element, wherein the identifier of the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection; and candidate area information, wherein the candidate area information is used to indicate the path of the fourth network element.

[0435] Figure 5A is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 5A, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which is executed by a third network element. The method includes:

[0436] Step S5101: The third network element selects the first network element that supports energy saving based on the PDU session establishment request.

[0437] Step S5101 is similar to step S2106 above, and will not be described again here.

[0438] In step S5102, the third network element sends the first message to the first network element.

[0439] Step S5102 is similar to step S2107 above, and will not be described again here.

[0440] Figure 5B is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 5B, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which is executed by a third network element. The method includes:

[0441] Step S5201: The third network element reselects the first network element based on the fourth message.

[0442] Step S5201 is similar to step S2304 above, and will not be described again here.

[0443] In step S5202, the third network element sends a fourth message to the first network element B.

[0444] Step S5202 is similar to step S2305 above, and will not be described again here.

[0445] Step S5203: The third network element releases the PDU session of the first network element A.

[0446] Step S5203 is similar to step S2311 above, and will not be described again here.

[0447] It should be noted that the above embodiments can also be understood as steps performed by the third network element to instruct the first network element to manage the PDU session.

[0448] In some embodiments, this disclosure relates to a session management method performed by a third network element, the method comprising: the third network element instructing a first network element to manage a PDU session.

[0449] In some embodiments, the first network element manages the PDU session based on subscribed energy consumption information, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or the second network element.

[0450] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a PDU session establishment request sent by a terminal, the PDU session establishment request including a first capability, the first capability being used to indicate that the PDU session to be established by the PDU session establishment request supports energy saving.

[0451] In some embodiments, the method further includes: selecting the first network element that supports energy saving based on the PDU session establishment request.

[0452] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a first message to the first network element, the first message including a first indication, the first indication being used to indicate that the PDU session supports energy saving.

[0453] In some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a third message sent by a first network element; the third message is used to indicate reselection of the first network element, and the fourth message is sent when the candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the first network element is unable to adjust the PDU session.

[0454] In some embodiments, the third message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information; the identifier of the candidate fourth network element; candidate area information; and the identifier of the candidate first network element.

[0455] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending a fourth message to a first network element, the fourth message being used by the first network element to reselect a fourth network element.

[0456] In some embodiments, the fourth message includes at least one of the following: energy consumption information; the candidate fourth network element; the candidate area information; the identifier of the candidate first network element; and the session identifier of the PDU session.

[0457] Figure 6A is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 6A, the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which includes:

[0458] Step S6101: The UE sends the PDU session establishment request to the AMF.

[0459] In some embodiments, the PDU session establishment request in this disclosure is similar to the PDU session establishment request in step S2105 of the above embodiments, and will not be described again here.

[0460] In some embodiments, AMF can be understood as the third network element in the above embodiments.

[0461] In step S6102, the AMF selects one SMF for this PDU session as defined in TS23.502[1]. If the energy efficiency related information is included in the UE subscription data, the AMF selects the SMF with the capability of supporting energy efficiency services.

[0462] In some embodiments, SMF can be understood as the first network element in the above embodiments.

[0463] In step S6103, the AMF invokes the SM_context_create service operation as defined in TS23.502[1]. If the energy efficiency related information is included in the subscription data, the AMF indicates the SMF to maintain this PDU session as an energy efficiency PDU session. Optionally, the energy efficiency indication is included in the SM_context_create request.

[0464] In step S6104, the SMF may select a PCF for this PDU session as defined in TS23.502[1].

[0465] In some embodiments, PCF can be understood as the sixth network element in the above embodiments.

[0466] In step S6105, the SMF may perform an SM policy association establishment procedure to establish an SM policy association with the PCF and obtain the default PCC rules for the PDU session.

[0467] In step S6106, the SMF selects one or more UPFs for this PDU session. If the energy-related information of the managed UPF(s) is available to the SMF, the SMF can consider the energy information for the UPF selection.

[0468] In some embodiments, UPF can be understood as the second or fourth network element in the above embodiments.

[0469] Step S6107: For the selected UPF, the SMF invokes the N4 session establishment / modification service operation.

[0470] Step S6108: If this PDU session is an energy efficiency PDU session, the SMF selects one ECF to monitor the energy consumption of this PDU session.

[0471] In some embodiments, ECF can be understood as the fifth network element in the above embodiments.

[0472] Step S6109: For the selected ECF, the SMF creates and subscribes to the end-to-end energy consumption / renewable energy ratio of this PDU session. The energy efficiency subscription request includes the event, the PDU session ID, the SMF information, the path information (i.e., the information of the selected UPF), and the energy consumption threshold.

[0473] In some embodiments, an energy efficiency subscription request can be understood as the first request in the above embodiments. In some embodiments, an event can be understood as a triggering event in the above embodiments. A PDU session ID can be understood as a session identifier of a PDU session in the above embodiments. SMF information can be understood as information of the first network element in the above embodiments. Path information can be understood as information of the fourth network element in the above embodiments. An energy consumption threshold can be understood as an energy consumption threshold and / or an energy consumption ratio threshold in the above embodiments.

[0474] In step S6110, the ECF sends the response message to the SMF.

[0475] In some embodiments, the response message can be understood as the first response in the above embodiments.

[0476] Figure 6B is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 6B, the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which includes:

[0477] Step S6201: If the energy consumption of this PDU session reaches the threshold or the ratio of renewable energy changes, the ECF sends the energy efficiency notification message to the SMF. The energy efficiency notification message may include the E2E energy consumption analysis of this PDU session, the energy information of the involved UPF node(s), the candidate UPF node(s) for UPF re-selection, and the area information for UPF re-selection.

[0478] Optionally, the ECF may provide autofocus information (e.g., energy-related information about autofocus) to adjust N6 traffic routing for energy efficiency.

[0479] In some implementation sets, the energy efficiency notification message can be understood as the second message in the above embodiments.

[0480] In step S6202, the SMF may send an acknowledgment message to the ECF.

[0481] In some embodiments, the confirmation message can be understood as the first response in the above embodiments.

[0482] In step S6203, the SMF may interact with the PCF to update the SM policy.

[0483] Step S6204: The SMF performs UPF re-selection based on the received E2E energy information and / or subscribed energy information of UPF node(s) provided by the ECF.

[0484] Optionally, the SMF may reuse the UPF discovery mechanism by querying the NRF. The NRF considers the energy-related information of potential UPF nodes and returns the UPF(s) that meet the discovery request.

[0485] In some embodiments, end-to-end energy information and UPF node subscription energy information can be understood as the energy consumption information in the above embodiments.

[0486] Step S6205: For the affected UPF node, the SMF may perform the N4 session establishment / modification procedure.

[0487] In step S6206, the SMF updates the subscription in the ECF by providing the updated CN-Tunnel-Info, event ID, and PDU session ID.

[0488] Figure 6C is a flowchart illustrating a session management method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 6C, the present disclosure relates to a session management method, which includes:

[0489] Step S6301: If the energy consumption of this PDU session reaches the threshold or the ratio of renewable energy changes, the ECF sends the energy efficiency notification message to the SMF. The energy efficiency notification message may include the E2E energy consumption analysis of this PDU session, the energy information of the involved UPF node(s), the candidate UPF node(s) for UPF re-selection, and the area information for UPF re-selection.

[0490] Optionally, the ECF may provide autofocus information (e.g., energy-related information about autofocus) to adjust N6 traffic routing for energy efficiency.

[0491] In step S6302, the SMF may send an acknowledgment message to the ECF.

[0492] Step S6303: If the candidate UPF node(s) is not managed by the SMF1, or the SMF1 determines that it cannot adjust the N6 / N9 path to meet the energy requirement, the SMF1 sends the SM context status notification to the AMF. The SMF1 may provide the received E2E energy information and / or potential SMF ID to the AMF for SMF re-selection.

[0493] In some embodiments, the SM context state notification can be understood as the fourth message in the above embodiments.

[0494] In step S6304, the AMF re-selects an SMF to manage this PDU session based on the received end-to-end energy information and the potential SMF ID.

[0495] Optionally, the SMF may reuse the UPF discovery mechanism by querying the NRF. The NRF considers the energy-related information of potential UPF nodes and returns the UPF(s) that meet the discovery request.

[0496] In step S6305, the AMF invokes the SM_context_create service operation as defined in TS23.502[1]. The AMF may provide the received E2E energy information, SMF1 information and PDU session ID to SMF2 for traffic adjustment.

[0497] Optionally, the AMF may reuse the UPF discovery mechanism by querying the NRF. The NRF considers the capability of potential SMF node(s) and the E2E energy information, and returns the SMF(s) that meet the discovery request.

[0498] In step S6306, SMF2 invokes the PDU session context service operation to obtain the PDU session context stored in the SMF1.

[0499] In step S6307, the SMF may perform an SM policy association establishment procedure to establish an SM policy association with the PCF and obtain the default PCC rules for the PDU session.

[0500] Step S6308: Based on the received E2E energy information from the AMF and / or the subscribed energy information of the managed UPF node(s), the SMF selects one or more UPFs for this PDU session.

[0501] Step S6309: For the selected UPF, SMF2 invokes the N4 session establishment / modification service operation.

[0502] In step S6310, SMF2 returns the SM context create response to the AMF.

[0503] In step S6311, the AMF invokes the PDU session release service operation to the SMF1. The SMF1 removes the maintained SM context for this PDU session.

[0504] In step S6312, SMF2 updates the energy efficiency subscription with the ECF by providing the information of SMF2 and the updated CN-Tunnel-Info.

[0505] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Furthermore, another apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, a core network functional node, a core network device, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0506] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD). Taking a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) as an example, it can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0507] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0508] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first network element proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The first network element 7100 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7A, the first network element 7100 may include at least one of a transceiver module 7101, a processing module 7102, etc. In some embodiments, the processing module is used to manage PDU sessions based on subscribed energy consumption information, wherein the energy consumption information is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element, the second network element being managed by the first network element. Optionally, the transceiver module is used to perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by the first network element in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. Optionally, the processing module is used to perform at least one of the other steps performed by the first network element in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0509] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fifth network element proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The fifth network element 7200 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7B, the fifth network element 7200 may include at least one of a transceiver module 7201, a processing module 7202, etc. In some embodiments, the processing module is used to provide energy consumption information to the first network element, the energy consumption information being used to indicate the energy consumption of a PDU session and / or a second network element, the PDU session being managed by the first network element, and the second network element being managed by the first network element. Optionally, the transceiver module is used to perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by the fifth network element in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. Optionally, the processing module is used to perform at least one of the other steps performed by the fifth network element in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0510] Figure 7C is a schematic diagram of the structure of the third network element proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The third network element 7300 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 7C, the third network element 7300 may include at least one of a transceiver module 7301, a processing module 7302, etc. In some embodiments, the processing module is used to instruct the first network element to manage the PDU session, wherein the PDU session is an energy-saving session, and the first network element is responsible for managing the PDU session. Optionally, the transceiver module is used to perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by the third network element in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. Optionally, the processing module is used to perform at least one of the other steps performed by the third network element in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0511] In some embodiments, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and / or a receiving module, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the transceiver module may be interchangeable with a transceiver.

[0512] In some embodiments, the processing module may be a single module or may include multiple sub-modules. Optionally, the multiple sub-modules may each perform all or part of the steps required by the processing module.

[0513] In some embodiments, the processing module can be replaced by the processor, and the transceiver module can be replaced by the transceiver.

[0514] Figure 8A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device 8100 proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 8100 can be a network device (e.g., access network device, core network device, etc.), a terminal (e.g., user equipment, etc.), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 8100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0515] As shown in Figure 8A, the communication device 8100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 includes one or more processors 8101. The processor 8101 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 8100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 8101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 8100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0516] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more transceivers 8102. When the communication device 8100 includes one or more transceivers 8102, the transceivers 8102 perform the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method, and the processor 8101 performs other steps. In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, sending unit, transmitter, sending circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0517] In some embodiments, the communication device 8100 further includes one or more memories 8103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 8101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 8103 to cause the communication device 8100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 8103 may also be located outside the communication device 8100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 8100 may include one or more interface circuits 8104. Optionally, the interface circuit 8104 is connected to the memory 8102 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 8102 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 8102 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 8104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 8102 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 8101.

[0518] The communication device 8100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 8100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 8100 may not be limited by FIG8A. The communication device may be a standalone device or may be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (8) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (9) others, etc.

[0519] Figure 8B is a schematic diagram of the structure of chip 8200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 8100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of chip 8200 shown in Figure 8B, but it is not limited thereto.

[0520] Chip 8200 includes one or more processors 8201. Chip 8200 is used to perform any of the methods described above.

[0521] In some embodiments, chip 8200 further includes one or more interface circuits 8202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 8200 further includes one or more memories 8203 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 8203 may be located outside of chip 8200. Optionally, the interface circuit 8202 is connected to the memories 8203, and the interface circuit 8202 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memories 8203 or other devices, and the interface circuit 8202 can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memories 8203 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 8202 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memories 8203 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 8201.

[0522] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 8202 performs at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, in the above-described method. For example, the interface circuit 8202 performing the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, in the above-described method means that the interface circuit 8202 performs data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 8201, the chip 8200, the memory 8203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 8201 performs at least one of the other steps.

[0523] The modules and / or devices described in the various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be combined or separated arbitrarily as needed. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0524] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0525] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0526] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

1. A session management method, characterized in that, The method is executed by a first network element, which supports energy-saving services; the method includes: The PDU session is managed based on subscription-based energy consumption information, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or a second network element managed by the first network element.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system receives a first message sent by a third network element. The first message includes a first indication, which is used to indicate that the PDU session supports energy saving.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the first message, a fourth network element is determined, and the fourth network element is responsible for sending the data of the PDU session; Establish or modify an N4 session with the identified fourth network element.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The determination of the fourth network element based on the first message includes at least one of the following: Based on the first message, the second network element supporting energy-saving services is determined to be the fourth network element; The fourth network element is determined based on the first message and the energy consumption information.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first request to the fifth network element, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session, and / or, the first request being used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element; The system receives a first response from the fifth network element, which is used to indicate that the monitoring of the PDU session and / or the energy consumption of the second network element is successful.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first request includes at least one of the following: Triggering events, wherein the triggering events are used to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the PDU session, and / or to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the second network element; The session identifier of the PDU session; Information about the first network element; Information about the fourth network element; Energy consumption threshold, which is used to indicate the threshold of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element; Energy consumption ratio threshold, which is used to indicate the proportion of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The second message sent by the fifth network element is received; the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition, and / or the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets the second condition.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies the first condition, including: The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session, where the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the PDU session, where the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

9. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The energy consumption of the second network element satisfies the second condition, including: The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the second network element, wherein the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the second network element, where the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

10. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that, The second message includes at least one of the following: The energy consumption information; The identifier of the candidate fourth network element is used to indicate the network element to be reselected; Candidate region information, which is used to indicate the path of the fourth network element.

11. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that, The subscription-based energy consumption information management PDU session includes: The fourth network element is reselected based on the second message.

12. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that, The subscription-based energy consumption information management PDU session includes: The candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element, and / or the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element, and / or the first network element cannot adjust the PDU session. A third message is sent to the third network element, the third message being used to instruct the first network element to be reselected.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, The third message includes at least one of the following: The energy consumption information; The identifier of the candidate fourth network element; The candidate region information; The identifier of the candidate first network element.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive the fourth message sent by the third network element; The fourth network element is selected based on the fourth message.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The fourth message includes at least one of the following: The energy consumption information; The candidate fourth network element; The candidate region information; The session identifier of the PDU session.

16. The method according to claim 11 or 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Update the subscription to the PDU session in the fifth network element.

17. A session management method, characterized in that, The method is executed by the fifth network element, and the method includes: Energy consumption information is provided to a first network element, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of a PDU session and / or a second network element, wherein the PDU session is managed by the first network element and the second network element is managed by the first network element.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a first request sent by a first network element, wherein the first request is used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or, wherein the first request is used to request the fifth network element to monitor the energy consumption of the second network element; Send a first response to the first network element, the first response being used to indicate successful monitoring of the PDU session and / or the energy consumption of the second network element.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first request includes at least one of the following: Triggering events, wherein the triggering events are used to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the PDU session, and / or to indicate the energy consumption of the fifth network element sending the second network element; The session identifier of the PDU session; Information about the first network element; Information about the fourth network element; Energy consumption threshold, which is used to indicate the threshold of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element; Energy consumption ratio threshold, which is used to indicate the proportion of energy consumed by the PDU session and / or the second network element.

20. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a second message to the first network element; the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the PDU session meets the first condition, and / or, the second message is used to indicate that the energy consumption of the second network element meets the second condition.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The energy consumption of the PDU session satisfies the first condition, including: The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the PDU session, where the energy consumption of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the PDU session, where the energy ratio of the PDU session is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

22. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The energy consumption of the second network element satisfies the second condition, including: The energy consumption threshold is used to indicate a threshold for the energy consumed by the second network element, wherein the energy consumption of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption threshold; and / or, The energy consumption ratio threshold is used to indicate the energy ratio of the second network element, where the energy ratio of the second network element is greater than the energy consumption ratio threshold.

23. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, characterized in that, The second message includes at least one of the following: The energy consumption information; The identifier of the candidate fourth network element, wherein the identifier of the candidate fourth network element refers to the network element used for reselection; Candidate region information, which is used to indicate the path of the fourth network element.

24. A session management method, characterized in that, The method is executed by a third network element, and the method includes: The first network element is instructed to manage the PDU session. The first network element manages the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information, which is used to indicate the energy consumption of the PDU session and / or the second network element.

25. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The method further includes: The receiving terminal sends a PDU session establishment request, which includes a first capability that indicates that the PDU session requested by the PDU session establishment request supports energy saving.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the PDU session establishment request, the first network element that supports energy saving is selected.

27. The method according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send a first message to the first network element. The first message includes a first indication, which is used to indicate that the PDU session supports energy saving.

28. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 27, characterized in that, The method further includes: The third message is received from the first network element; the third message is used to indicate the reselection of the first network element; the fourth message is sent when the candidate fourth network element is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the candidate area information is not managed by the first network element, and / or, the first network element cannot adjust the PDU session.

29. The method according to claim 28, characterized in that, The third message includes at least one of the following: Energy consumption information; The identifier of the candidate fourth network element; Candidate region information; The identifier of the candidate first network element.

30. The method according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that, The method further includes: A fourth message is sent to the first network element, the fourth message being used by the first network element to reselect a fourth network element.

31. The method according to claim 30, characterized in that, The fourth message includes at least one of the following: Energy consumption information; The candidate fourth network element; The candidate region information; The identifier of the candidate first network element; Session identifier for PDU session.

32. A session management method, characterized in that, The method includes: The third network element instructs the first network element to manage the PDU session; The fifth network element provides energy consumption information to the first network element; The first network element manages the PDU session based on the subscribed energy consumption information.

33. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is used to execute the session management method according to any one of claims 1-16, 17-23, 24-31.

34. A communication system, characterized in that, It includes a first network element, a third network element, and a fifth network element, wherein the first network element is configured to implement the session management method of any one of claims 1-19, the third network element is configured to implement the session management method of any one of claims 24-31, and the fifth network element is configured to implement the callback management method of any one of claims 17-23.

35. A storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1-16, 17-23, and 24-31.

36. A program product, characterized in that, The program product includes at least one of a program and instructions, and when the program or instructions are executed by a communication device, they implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-31.

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