Communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium, and a program product. The communication method comprises: when the energy state satisfies a condition, a terminal sends a first message to a first network element, the first message being used for triggering an energy saving service, and the energy saving service being used for adjusting energy consumption generated by the terminal during a communication process. According to the method of the present disclosure, by triggering an energy saving service, adaptive adjustment of service experience, quality of service, resource allocation, etc. can be implemented on the basis of the energy state of a terminal, thereby achieving the purposes of improving the energy efficiency of a communication system, reducing energy consumption, and optimizing the energy management of the communication system.

Description

Communication methods, communication equipment, communication systems, storage media and software products Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of mobile networks, mobile communication technology will accommodate more and more services and services. For example, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) services, such as Extended Reality (XR), can be introduced into mobile networks. By introducing more types of services, richer services can be provided to users. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Introducing more services or business functions into a communication system may result in higher energy consumption for the entire system.

[0004] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, executed by a terminal, the method comprising: sending a first message to a first network element when the energy state of the terminal meets certain conditions, the first message being used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, executed by a first network element, the method comprising: receiving a first message sent by a terminal when an energy state meets a condition, the first message being used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication; generating a second message based on the first message, and sending the second message to a second network element, the second message being used to trigger a modification of a first session supporting the energy-saving service.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, executed by a second network element. The method includes: receiving a second message sent by a first network element, the second message being used by the first network element to request triggering a first session modification supporting energy-saving services, the second message being generated by the first network element based on a first message, the first message being sent by a terminal to the first network element when the energy state meets certain conditions, the first message being used by the terminal to request triggering the energy-saving service, the energy-saving service being used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication; and triggering the first session modification by updating a first strategy based on the second message.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is proposed, executed by a fourth network element, the method comprising: receiving a third message sent by a second network element, the third message including a first strategy, the first strategy being determined and updated by the second network element based on energy information reported by a terminal when the energy state meets the conditions; and modifying a corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a terminal is provided, comprising: a transceiver module, configured to send a first message to a first network element when the energy state of the terminal meets certain conditions, the first message being used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a first network element is provided, comprising: a transceiver module, configured to receive a first message sent by a terminal when the energy state meets certain conditions, the first message being used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication; and to generate a second message based on the first message, and send the second message to a second network element, the second message being used to trigger the modification of a first session supporting the energy-saving service.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a second network element is proposed, comprising: a transceiver module, configured to receive a second message sent by a first network element, the second message being used by the first network element to request triggering a first session modification supporting energy-saving services, the second message being generated by the first network element based on a first message, the first message being sent by a terminal to the first network element when the energy state meets the conditions, the first message being used by the terminal to request triggering the energy-saving service, the energy-saving service being used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication; and a processing module, configured to trigger the first session modification by updating a first strategy based on the second message.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a fourth network element is proposed, comprising: a transceiver module, configured to receive a third message sent by a second network element, the third message including a first strategy, the first strategy being updated by the second network element based on energy information reported by the terminal when the energy state meets the conditions; and a processing module, configured to modify a corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, comprising: one or more processors; and a memory coupled to the processors, the memory storing executable instructions that, when executed by the processors, cause the communication method described in any one of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects to be executed.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, including a terminal, a first network element, a second network element, and a fourth network element, wherein the terminal is configured to implement the communication method described in the first aspect, the first network element is configured to implement the communication method described in the second aspect, the second network element is configured to implement the communication method described in the third aspect, and the fourth network element is configured to implement the communication method described in the fourth aspect.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions, which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the communication method described in any one of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, a program product is provided, comprising at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the communication method described in any one of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0017] By adopting the above technical solution, at least the following beneficial technical effects can be achieved:

[0018] When the energy state meets the requirements, the terminal sends a first message to the first network element to trigger an energy-saving service. This energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. By triggering the energy-saving service, service experience, service quality, and resource allocation can be adaptively adjusted based on the terminal's energy state, thereby improving the energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption of the communication system and optimizing its energy management. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings required for the description of the embodiments are introduced below. The following drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0020] Figure 1 is an exemplary schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 2 is an exemplary interactive schematic diagram of a communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 3A is an exemplary interaction diagram of another communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3B is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3C is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 3D is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 3E is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 4A is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 4B is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0033] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product.

[0034] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a communication method executed by a terminal, the method comprising: sending a first message to a first network element when the energy state of the terminal meets certain conditions, the first message being used to trigger session modification.

[0035] The above embodiments provide a new method for triggering session modification. Furthermore, the triggered session modification is adapted to the terminal's energy state. Through session modification, service experience, service quality, and resource allocation can be adaptively adjusted based on the terminal's energy state, thereby improving terminal energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and optimizing terminal energy management.

[0036] In the above embodiments, when the energy state meets the conditions, the terminal sends a first message to the first network element to trigger session modification. Session modification can optimize / adjust the terminal's communication energy consumption. For example, session modification can be performed in a way that best matches the terminal's energy state, thus improving the terminal's energy efficiency and reducing energy consumption. Alternatively, session modification can be performed in a way that balances the terminal's energy state and service / quality of service, thereby achieving a balance between service / quality of service and the terminal's energy state. This allows the terminal to obtain higher quality service while reducing energy consumption, thus improving terminal energy efficiency.

[0037] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the triggering session modification includes: triggering modification of a first session supporting energy-saving services, wherein the energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0038] Optionally, if the terminal's energy state meets the conditions, a first message is sent to the first network element. This first message triggers an energy-saving service, which adjusts the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. Optionally, triggering the energy-saving service includes: triggering a modification of a first session supporting the energy-saving service.

[0039] In the above embodiment, when the energy state meets the conditions, the terminal sends a first message to the first network element to trigger the first session modification. Since the first session supports energy-saving services, the terminal can achieve energy saving through the first session modification.

[0040] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the energy state of the terminal is determined to meet a condition if at least one of the following conditions is satisfied:

[0041] The battery level is below the first threshold.

[0042] The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0043] The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold, wherein the energy consumption ratio is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption.

[0044] In the above embodiments, a variety of events are provided to trigger the terminal to send the first message to the first network element. This makes it easier for the terminal to flexibly determine whether to request session modification from the first network element, and can reduce the possibility of terminal misjudgment or omission, thereby improving accuracy.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first message includes energy information, the energy information including at least one of the following:

[0046] Battery level;

[0047] The indication that the battery level is below a first threshold;

[0048] Power consumption value;

[0049] The power consumption value is an indication that it is higher than the second threshold;

[0050] The energy consumption ratio;

[0051] The energy consumption ratio is an indication that it is higher than the third threshold.

[0052] In the above embodiments, the first message may include specific values ​​such as battery level, power consumption, and energy consumption ratio, so that the network device can further determine whether to allow session modification. The first message may also include indications such as a battery level below a first threshold, a power consumption value above a second threshold, or an energy consumption ratio above a third threshold. This method of not directly indicating specific values ​​such as battery level can avoid exposing / revealing the terminal's internal power parameters to the network device, thus ensuring the terminal's information security.

[0053] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is indicated by the network device when the terminal obtains permission to use the energy-saving service, or at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is pre-configured on the terminal.

[0054] In the above embodiments, the diversity of threshold configuration methods facilitates adaptation to different application scenarios or needs. For example, when the threshold is configured by the network device, it is convenient for the network device to uniformly configure the same threshold for each terminal, thereby ensuring the uniformity of each terminal. However, if the threshold is pre-configured on the terminal, personalized threshold configuration can be performed for the terminal based on information such as battery information and power consumption requirements.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving a session modification response message or an energy-saving service response message sent by the first network element.

[0056] In the above embodiments, when the terminal sends a first message to the first network element, the first network element needs to respond to the first message so that the terminal can determine whether the first network element has received the first message and whether the terminal can determine whether the first network element allows the event requested by the first message, thereby facilitating the terminal to make subsequent decisions.

[0057] Secondly, this disclosure provides a communication method executed by a first network element. The method includes: receiving a first message sent by a terminal when the energy state meets certain conditions, the first message being used to trigger session modification; generating a second message based on the first message; and sending the second message to a second network element, the second message being used to trigger session modification.

[0058] In the above embodiments, when the first network element receives the first message sent by the terminal, it can send a second message to the second network element according to the first message to trigger session modification and achieve the purpose of reducing terminal power consumption.

[0059] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the triggering session modification includes: triggering modification of a first session supporting energy-saving services, wherein the energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0060] Optionally, the receiving terminal sends a first message when the energy state meets the conditions, the first message being used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication; a second message is generated based on the first message, and the second message is sent to a second network element, the second message being used to trigger the modification of a first session supporting the energy-saving service.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, before generating the second message based on the first message and sending the second message to the second network element, the method includes: determining, based on the context or subscription data of the terminal, that the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services.

[0062] In the above embodiments, when the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services, energy saving can be achieved through session modification.

[0063] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first message includes the energy information of the terminal, and the second network element is a network element that subscribes to the energy information change event of the terminal.

[0064] In the above embodiments, carrying the terminal's energy information in the first message facilitates further verification by the first network element based on this information. Furthermore, the first network element only sends the second message to network elements that have subscribed to the terminal's energy information change event, avoiding resource waste caused by sending the second message to network elements that have not subscribed to the event.

[0065] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, before generating the second message based on the first message and sending the second message to the second network element, the method includes: determining, based on the energy information of the terminal in the first message, that the conditions for triggering session modification are met.

[0066] In the above embodiments, if the first network element determines that the conditions for triggering session modification are met based on the terminal's energy information in the first message, it generates a second message based on the first message and sends the second message to the second network element to trigger session modification. This ensures the security and effectiveness of triggering session modification.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the energy information of the terminal includes at least one of the following:

[0068] Battery level;

[0069] The indication that the battery level is below a first threshold;

[0070] Power consumption value;

[0071] The power consumption value is an indication that it is higher than the second threshold;

[0072] Energy consumption ratio, wherein the energy consumption ratio is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption;

[0073] The energy consumption ratio is an indication that it is higher than the third threshold.

[0074] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the condition for triggering session modification is determined to be met if at least one of the following conditions is satisfied:

[0075] The battery level is lower than the first threshold;

[0076] The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0077] The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold;

[0078] The energy information includes an indication that the energy value is lower than the first threshold;

[0079] The energy information includes an indication that the power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0080] The energy information includes an indication that the energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold.

[0081] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following:

[0082] The energy information of the terminal mentioned in the first message;

[0083] The identifier of the terminal;

[0084] AF routing information;

[0085] The identifier of the first session determined by the first network element.

[0086] In the above embodiments, by carrying the above content in the second message, the second network element can make more accurate policy updates based on the above content.

[0087] Thirdly, this disclosure provides a communication method executed by a second network element. The method includes: receiving a second message sent by a first network element, the second message being used by the first network element to request the triggering of session modification, the second message being generated by the first network element based on a first message, the first message being sent by a terminal to the first network element when the energy state meets the conditions, the first message being used by the terminal to request the triggering of session modification; and triggering session modification by updating a strategy based on the second message.

[0088] In the above embodiments, the second network element can trigger session modification by updating the policy.

[0089] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the triggering session modification includes: triggering modification of a first session supporting energy-saving services, wherein the energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0090] Optionally, a second message is received from the first network element. The second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of a first session modification that supports energy-saving services. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message. The first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used by the terminal to request the triggering of the energy-saving service. The energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. Based on the second message, the first strategy is updated to trigger the first session modification.

[0091] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, updating the policy based on the second message includes: updating the first policy associated with the first session according to the first energy information of the nodes on the user plane UP path of the first session and / or the energy information of the terminal in the second message.

[0092] In the above embodiments, the second network element can generate and update a first strategy that matches the first energy information of the node on the user plane UP path of the first session and / or the energy information of the terminal in the second message, so as to reduce the energy consumption of the terminal.

[0093] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first energy information is provided by a third network element or pre-stored on the second network element, wherein the third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

[0094] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the number of the first sessions is one or more, the first sessions are selected by the second network element, or the first sessions are indicated by the second message.

[0095] In some embodiments of the third aspect, the step of triggering session modification by updating the policy based on the second message includes: sending a third message to a fourth network element, the third message including the identifier of the first session and / or the first policy, the third message being used to trigger the modification of the first session.

[0096] In the above embodiments, by sending a third message to the fourth network element, the third message including the identifier of the first session and / or the first policy, the fourth network element can perform the modification of the first session, thereby reducing the energy consumption of the communication system.

[0097] Fourthly, this disclosure provides a communication method executed by a fourth network element. The method includes: receiving a third message sent by a second network element, the third message including a first strategy, the first strategy being determined and updated by the second network element based on energy information reported by the terminal when the energy state meets the conditions; and modifying the corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

[0098] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first session is a session that supports energy-saving services, which are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0099] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, before modifying the corresponding first session according to the first strategy, the method includes: updating the UP path of the first session according to the second energy information of the nodes on the user plane UP path and / or the first strategy.

[0100] In the above embodiments, modifying the first session based on the first strategy, including modifying the service quality of the first session and modifying the UP path of the first session, can reduce terminal power consumption.

[0101] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the second energy information is provided by a third network element or pre-stored on the fourth network element, wherein the third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

[0102] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a terminal, which includes at least one of a transceiver module and a processing module; wherein the terminal is used to execute an optional implementation of the first aspect.

[0103] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a first network element, which includes at least one of a transceiver module and a processing module; wherein the first network element is used to execute the optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0104] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a second network element, which includes at least one of a transceiver module and a processing module; wherein the second network element is used to execute the optional implementation of the third aspect.

[0105] Eighthly, this disclosure proposes a fourth network element, which includes at least one of a transceiver module and a processing module; wherein the fourth network element is used to perform an optional implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0106] Ninthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, which includes one or more processors; wherein the communication device is configured to execute an optional implementation of at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0107] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system comprising: a terminal, a first network element, a second network element, a third network element, and a fourth network element; wherein the terminal is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the first aspect, the first network element is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the second aspect, the second network element is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the third aspect, and the fourth network element is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0108] In one 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 described in any one or more optional implementations of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0109] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product, including at least one of a program and instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the method as described in the optional implementations of any one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0110] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the methods described in optional implementations of any one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0111] In a fourteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry configured to perform the method described according to optional implementations of any one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects described above.

[0112] It is understood that the aforementioned terminals, network elements, communication equipment, communication systems, storage media, and program products are all used to execute the communication method 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.

[0113] This disclosure provides a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium, and a program product. In some embodiments, the terms "communication method" and "information processing method," "method for triggering session modification based on terminal energy state," etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] 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.

[0117] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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 "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." 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.

[0122] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0123] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0124] 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.

[0125] 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”.

[0126] 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.

[0127] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0128] 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] 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.

[0131] 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.

[0132] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0133] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0134] 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.

[0135] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 may include a terminal 101 and a network device 102.

[0136] 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.

[0137] In some embodiments, network device 102 may include at least one of access network device and core network device.

[0138] In some embodiments, the access network device is, for example, 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: evolved Node B (eNB), next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), node B (NB), home node B (HNB), home evolved node B (HeNB), radio backhaul device, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), base band unit (BBU), mobile switching center, base station in a 6G communication system, open RAN, cloud RAN, base station in other communication systems, and access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0139] In some embodiments, the access network device is a base station. Optionally, the base station may be, for example, a macro base station, a micro base station (also called a small station), a relay station, an access point, a 5 / 6G base station or a future base station, a satellite, a Transmitting and Receiving Point (TRP), a Transmitting Point (TP), a mobile switching center, or other equipment that performs base station functions in a communication system, etc., and this disclosure does not specifically limit this type of device. For ease of description, in all embodiments of this disclosure, the apparatus that provides wireless communication functions for terminal devices is collectively referred to as a network device or a base station.

[0140] In some embodiments, the access network device is a core network device. Optionally, the core network device can be a single device, including a first network element, a second network element, etc., or it can be multiple devices or a group of devices, each including all or part of the first network element, the second network element, etc. The network element can be virtual or physical. The core network includes, for example, at least one of the Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G / 6G Core Network (5GCN / 6GCN), and Next Generation Core (NGC).

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] In some embodiments, network device 102 includes at least one of a first network element 1021, a second network element 1022, a third network element 1023, a fourth network element 1024, and a fifth network element 1025. Any one or more of the first network element 1021, the second network element 1022, the third network element 1023, the fourth network element 1024, and the fifth network element 1025 may be part of the core network equipment or may be independent of the core network equipment; this disclosure does not limit this.

[0144] In some embodiments, the first network element 1021 is responsible for access and mobility management. The functions of the first network element include access control and mobility management. Access control refers to controlling user access to the network. Mobility management refers to managing user mobility, including handover and roaming. Optionally, the name of the first network element 1021 is not limited; the name of the first network element 1021 may be Access and Mobility Function (AMF).

[0145] In some embodiments, the first network element 1021 is used to control and manage applications in the mobile network. Optionally, the name of the first network element 1021 is not limited, and the name of the first network element 1021 may be an application layer function (AF).

[0146] In some embodiments, the second network element 1022 is responsible for policy control and user session management. The second network element 1022 controls the use of network resources by defining and enforcing policies to ensure Quality of Service (QoS) and security. Optionally, the name of the second network element 1022 is not limited; for example, it may be called a Policy Control Function (PCF).

[0147] In some embodiments, the third network element 1023 is used to monitor, collect, or analyze the energy information of each network node. Optionally, the name of the third network element 1023 is not limited, and the name of the third network element 1023 may be, for example, Energy Control Function (ECF) or Energy Information Function (EIF).

[0148] In some embodiments, the fourth network element 1024 is used for tunnel maintenance, IP address allocation and management, UP function selection, policy enforcement and QoS control, billing data collection, roaming, etc. Optionally, the name of the fourth network element 1024 is not limited, and the name of the fourth network element 1024 may be, for example, Session Management Function (SMF).

[0149] In some embodiments, the fifth network element 1025 is responsible for processing user data plane traffic. The functions of the fifth network element 1025 include data forwarding and QoS guarantee. Data forwarding refers to forwarding user data plane traffic. QoS guarantee refers to ensuring the quality and efficiency of data transmission. Optionally, the name of the fifth network element 1025 is not limited; for example, it may be called a User Plane Function (UPF).

[0150] 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.

[0151] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1A, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1A are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1A, or it may include other main bodies outside of FIG1A. 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.

[0152] 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), 6th generation mobile communication system (6G), 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).

[0153] In some embodiments, with the development of mobile networks, sixth-generation mobile communication technology (6G) th6G mobile communication technology is expected to accommodate an increasing number of services, such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Extended Reality (XR) services. However, this will lead to higher energy consumption for electronic devices. However, considering the service experience, the weight of various AR and / or XR glasses needs to be strictly controlled to a very light level (i.e., these devices have limited battery capacity), so that wearing these glasses does not impose an additional burden on the user. Only in this way will users be willing to subscribe to new devices and services. It should be explained that controlling / limiting the overall weight of the device may control / limit the weight of the battery carried by the device. And limiting the battery weight may also limit the battery capacity.

[0154] In some embodiments, to provide an immersive service experience, 6G systems need to deliver long-duration, low-power, high-data-rate data transmission on devices. Considering end-to-end energy efficiency, the overall energy consumption of the 6G system also needs optimization. To achieve energy efficiency, operators need to introduce the concept of energy as a service, offering users different levels of energy-saving services. Users will have the opportunity to choose an energy-saving level based on their needs when subscribing to specific application services (such as AR and XR).

[0155] In some embodiments, an example of a service process is as follows:

[0156] 1. The user purchased a new pair of AR glasses and subscribed to an application service offered by the operator with an energy efficiency rating of A or B.

[0157] 2. Operators operate networks to provide communication services to users.

[0158] 3. When the AR glasses' battery is fully charged or the user has convenient access to charging, the network will not perform any operations that support UE energy saving, which may result in higher energy consumption / power consumption for the AR glasses.

[0159] 4. When the battery capacity drops to 20% and the user is unable to charge the AR glasses in time, the user may switch the AR glasses to power-saving mode.

[0160] Optionally, if the user selects energy-saving level A, the service experience will not be affected by the device's battery status. The negotiation between the device and the network will minimize the device's power consumption (communication part) to extend battery life. Some energy-saving features (such as cell-DTX, UE-DRX, LP-WUS, etc.) may be used to improve energy efficiency, thereby reducing the device's power consumption without reducing the service experience.

[0161] Optionally, if the user selects energy-saving level B, the network will modify the service experience with the user's consent, such as modifying QoS (Quality of Service) to further extend battery life.

[0162] 5. Operators monitor and generate energy efficiency and energy consumption data at the device level.

[0163] As can be seen from the above, modifying the service experience to meet the energy efficiency targets of 6G when the device's battery power is low is a challenge.

[0164] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product that achieve energy efficiency goals by modifying the service experience. For example, by considering the terminal's battery level during PDU (Protocol Data Unit) session modification, the goal of reducing terminal power consumption can be achieved.

[0165] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a communication system 100, the method including:

[0166] In step S201, terminal 101 determines that the energy state meets the conditions and sends a first message to the first network element 1021.

[0167] In some embodiments, the first network element receives a first message. For example, the first network element 1021 receives a first message sent by the terminal 101 when the energy state meets the conditions.

[0168] In some embodiments, the first message is used to trigger session modification.

[0169] In some embodiments, the first message is used to request session modification.

[0170] In some embodiments, the first message is used to report the energy status of the terminal.

[0171] In some embodiments, the first message is used to request the network to provide energy-saving services or to trigger energy-saving services. The energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0172] In some embodiments, the name of the first message is not limited, and the name of the first message may be, for example, session modification request, battery status report, power saving service request, etc.

[0173] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the session includes, but is not limited to, the PDU session.

[0174] In some embodiments, the terminal determines whether the battery's energy state meets the conditions in real time, periodically, at irregular intervals, based on event triggering, or based on indication.

[0175] In some embodiments, when the terminal has low battery and high power consumption, it may prioritize requesting power-saving services to reduce terminal power consumption in order to extend battery life, reduce battery wear, and extend battery life. Therefore, the conditions include, but are not limited to, the terminal's battery level being below a first threshold, the terminal's power consumption being above a second threshold, and the terminal's energy consumption ratio being above a third threshold. For example, the terminal can determine that the energy state meets the conditions if at least one of the following conditions is met:

[0176] The battery level is below the first threshold.

[0177] The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0178] The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold.

[0179] Here, "Power Level" refers to the remaining power of the terminal's battery. "Power Consumption" refers to the power already consumed by the terminal's battery. "Energy Consumption Ratio" is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption. It should be explained that the energy sources for the terminal and network equipment include, but are not limited to, traditional energy, new energy sources, and environmentally supplied energy. Assuming the energy sources for the terminal and network equipment are traditional energy and new energy, then the "Energy Consumption Ratio" is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption, where total energy consumption is the sum of traditional energy consumption and new energy consumption.

[0180] In some embodiments, such as when the terminal is a vehicle or an in-vehicle terminal, the energy source of the terminal includes, but is not limited to, traditional energy and new energy. The energy consumption ratio can refer to the energy consumption ratio of the terminal and / or network device during the process of business interaction (communication interaction) between the terminal and network device.

[0181] In some embodiments, if the terminal is a mobile terminal, such as a mobile phone or tablet computer, then the energy consumption ratio value can refer to the energy consumption ratio value corresponding to the terminal and / or network device during the service interaction (communication interaction) between the terminal and the network device. At least one of the energy consumption ratio value, traditional energy consumption, new energy consumption, and total energy consumption is indicated to the terminal by the network device. The network device can indicate this to the terminal based on historical statistical energy consumption information of relevant services.

[0182] For example, the terminal determines that the battery level is below a first threshold, determines that the energy status meets the conditions, and sends a first message to the first network element.

[0183] For example, the terminal determines that the power consumption value is higher than the second threshold, determines that the energy status meets the conditions, and sends the first message to the first network element.

[0184] For example, if the terminal determines that the energy consumption ratio during communication is higher than a third threshold, and the energy state meets the conditions, it sends a first message to the first network element. This method can at least save on the consumption of traditional energy.

[0185] In some embodiments, the implementation of triggering / requesting session modification or triggering energy-saving service includes: triggering / requesting modification of a first session supporting the energy-saving service. The first session is determined by a first network element and / or a second network element. The energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption of the terminal and / or network devices. For example, the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal and / or network devices during communication, i.e., communication energy consumption. It should be explained that the first session is a session related to the energy-saving service. By executing the first session modification procedure, the energy consumption of the terminal and / or network devices can be adjusted, for example, making the terminal more energy-efficient and simultaneously making the network devices more energy-efficient, thereby making the overall communication system more energy-efficient. It should also be explained that executing the first session modification procedure can reduce terminal energy consumption by reducing service quality (such as QoS) and service experience. This is because high service quality and service experience require high-speed data transmission, low latency, and low packet loss rate, etc., while high-speed data transmission, low latency, and low packet loss correspond to high energy consumption. To reduce energy consumption, it is necessary to reduce the data transmission rate, reduce service quality, service experience, etc. Session modification can reduce data transmission rates, service quality, and overall service experience. This is because session modification procedures are used when the service experience or quality of service (e.g., one or more QoS parameters) between the terminal and the network is modified.

[0186] In some embodiments, at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is indicated by a network device (e.g., the core network) when the terminal obtains permission to use energy-saving services; or, at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is pre-configured on the terminal. This disclosure does not limit the configuration method or source of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold.

[0187] In some embodiments, the first message may be a non-access stratum message. For example, assuming that the functions of the first network element include access control and mobility management, the first message sent by the terminal to the first network element may be a non-access stratum message, such as a 5G Mobility Management (MM) status message, an Uplink Non-Access Stratum (UL NAS) transmission message, etc. This disclosure does not limit the name of the first message.

[0188] In some embodiments, the first message may be an application layer message. For example, suppose the function of the first network element includes controlling and managing applications in the mobile network. Then, the first message sent by the terminal to the first network element is an application layer message. This disclosure does not limit the name of the first message.

[0189] In some embodiments, the first message includes energy information, which optionally includes at least one of the following:

[0190] Battery level;

[0191] An indication that the battery level is below the first threshold;

[0192] Power consumption value;

[0193] An indication that the power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0194] Energy consumption ratio;

[0195] An indication that the energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold.

[0196] For example, the terminal sends a first message to the first network element. The first message may include at least one of the following: power value, power consumption value, and energy consumption ratio value. Then, the network device side (e.g., the first network element) further determines whether to allow the session modification to be triggered.

[0197] For example, the terminal sends a first message to the first network element. The first message may include at least one of the following: an indication that the battery value is lower than a first threshold, an indication that the battery consumption value is higher than a second threshold, or an indication that the energy consumption ratio value is higher than a third threshold. This method of not directly indicating specific battery parameter values ​​can avoid exposing / revealing the battery parameter values ​​inside the terminal to the network device side, thereby ensuring the information security of the terminal.

[0198] In some embodiments, the first message may further include the identifier of the terminal, which is used by the first network element to determine the source of the first message.

[0199] In some embodiments, the implementation of triggering energy-saving services may include releasing some sessions, such as releasing low-priority sessions based on session priority.

[0200] In some embodiments, the implementation of triggering energy-saving services may further include suspending some network services provided to the terminal. For example, suspending low-priority services based on service priority. For example, suspending services that the terminal has not used for a long time.

[0201] In some embodiments, the implementation of triggering energy-saving services may also include enabling energy-saving functions such as cell-DTX, UE-DRX, and LP-WUS.

[0202] In step S202, the first network element 1021 determines that the terminal 101 is authorized to use energy-saving services based on the context or subscription data of the terminal 101.

[0203] In some embodiments, where the functions of the first network element include access control and mobility management, the first network element can determine whether the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services based on the terminal's context and / or subscription data. If the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services, it means that the terminal's energy consumption can be adjusted. If the terminal is not authorized to use energy-saving services, it means that the terminal's energy consumption cannot be adjusted.

[0204] In some embodiments, the context corresponding to the terminal is stored in a first network element, and the first network element determines whether the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service based on the stored context corresponding to the terminal. For example, if the context corresponding to the terminal contains information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, then it is determined that the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. If the context corresponding to the terminal does not contain information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, then it is determined that the terminal is not authorized to use the energy-saving service.

[0205] In some embodiments, the first network element requests the terminal's subscription data from other network devices to determine whether the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. For example, if the terminal's subscription data contains information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, it is determined that the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. If the terminal's subscription data does not contain information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, it is determined that the terminal is not authorized to use the energy-saving service.

[0206] In some embodiments, the first network element performs step S203 if it determines that the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services based on the terminal's context or subscription data.

[0207] In some embodiments, the first network element, based on the terminal's context or subscription data, sends a response message to the terminal to refuse session modification or refuse energy-saving services if it determines that the terminal is not authorized to use energy-saving services. The message may also indicate that the reason for the refusal is that the terminal has not been granted permission to use energy-saving services.

[0208] In some embodiments, step S202 may be omitted.

[0209] In step S203, the first network element 1021 determines that the conditions for triggering session modification are met based on the terminal's energy information in the first message.

[0210] In some embodiments, the first network element determines, based on the terminal's energy information in the first message, that the conditions for triggering the first session modification are met.

[0211] In some embodiments, the first network element determines whether the conditions for triggering session modification are met based on the terminal's energy information in the first message. If the conditions for triggering session modification are met, step S204 is executed. If the conditions for triggering session modification are not met, session modification is rejected, and a response message for rejecting session modification or rejecting energy-saving services is sent to the terminal, indicating that the reason for rejection is that the conditions for triggering session modification are not met.

[0212] In some embodiments, the implementation of the first network element determining whether the conditions for triggering session modification are met based on the terminal's energy information in the first message includes: the first network element determining that the conditions for triggering session modification are met based on the terminal's energy information if at least one of the following conditions is satisfied:

[0213] The battery level is below the first threshold.

[0214] The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0215] The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold;

[0216] Energy information includes an indication that the energy level is below a first threshold;

[0217] Energy information includes an indication that the power consumption value is higher than a second threshold;

[0218] Energy information includes indications that the energy consumption ratio is higher than a third threshold.

[0219] For example, the first network element determines that the terminal's power level is lower than a first threshold based on the terminal's energy information in the first message, and determines that the conditions for triggering session modification are met.

[0220] For example, the first network element determines that the terminal's power consumption value is higher than the second threshold based on the terminal's energy information in the first message, and determines that the conditions for triggering session modification are met.

[0221] For example, the first network element determines that the terminal's energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold based on the terminal's energy information in the first message, and determines that the conditions for triggering session modification are met.

[0222] In some embodiments, step S203 may be omitted.

[0223] In step S204, the first network element 1021 generates a second message based on the first message and sends the second message to the second network element 1022.

[0224] In some embodiments, the second network element receives a second message. The second network element includes policy control and user session management functions. The second network element is selected by the first network element; for example, the first network element selects a network element that has subscribed to the terminal's energy information change events as the second network element. Alternatively, the first network element may select a network element that manages the terminal's policy information as the second network element.

[0225] It should be noted that for terminals subscribing to energy-saving services, the second network element can create and subscribe to the terminal's energy information change events during the terminal registration process. Once the first network element receives the terminal's energy information change event, it sends a second message to the corresponding second network element.

[0226] In some embodiments, the first network element sends a second message to the second network element, the second message requesting the second network element to provide energy-saving services for the terminal. Providing energy-saving services includes triggering session modification. For example, the second message is used to trigger session modification, such as triggering modification of a first session that supports energy-saving services. After receiving the second message, the second network element returns a response message to the first network element, indicating whether it can provide energy-saving services for the terminal.

[0227] In some embodiments, the second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of the first session modification. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message, and the first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy state meets the conditions.

[0228] In some embodiments, the second message may be a notification message or a request message, and this disclosure does not limit it in this regard.

[0229] In some embodiments, the name of the second message is not limited, and the name of the second message may be, for example, a session modification request, an energy-saving service request, etc.

[0230] In some embodiments, the second message includes at least one of the following:

[0231] The terminal's energy information in the first message;

[0232] The terminal's identifier, such as an identifier at the application layer or an identifier within the core network;

[0233] AF routing information;

[0234] The identifier of the first session determined by the first network element.

[0235] It should be noted that the first network element can select / determine the first session. For example, the first network element selects one or more sessions belonging to the terminal that sent the first message and that support energy-saving services as the first session.

[0236] For example, a terminal has multiple sessions, one or more of which are sessions supporting energy-saving services. These energy-saving service-supporting sessions can optimize / adjust the energy consumption of the terminal and / or network devices by modifying the sessions. The first network element selects / determines one or more of these energy-saving service-supporting sessions as the first session.

[0237] In some embodiments, if the second message does not include an identifier for the first session, the second network element may select / determine the first session.

[0238] In step S205, the second network element 1022 updates the strategy according to the second message.

[0239] In some embodiments, before step S205, the second network element can determine whether the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services based on the terminal's context and / or subscription data. If the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services, it means that the terminal's strategy can be adjusted to achieve energy saving. If the terminal is not authorized to use energy-saving services, it means that the terminal's strategy cannot be adjusted to achieve energy saving.

[0240] In some embodiments, the second network element requests the context corresponding to the terminal from other network devices. Based on the context corresponding to the terminal, the second network element determines whether the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. For example, if the context corresponding to the terminal contains information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, it is determined that the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. If the context corresponding to the terminal does not contain information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, it is determined that the terminal is not authorized to use the energy-saving service.

[0241] In some embodiments, the second network element requests the terminal's subscription data from other network devices to determine whether the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. For example, if the terminal's subscription data contains information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, it is determined that the terminal is authorized to use the energy-saving service. If the terminal's subscription data does not contain information about the terminal subscribing to the energy-saving service, it is determined that the terminal is not authorized to use the energy-saving service.

[0242] In some embodiments, the second network element performs step S205 based on the terminal's context or subscription data, if it determines that the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services.

[0243] In some embodiments, the second network element, based on the terminal's context or subscription data, if it determines that the terminal is not authorized to use the energy-saving service, sends a response message to the terminal via the first network element to refuse session modification or refuse the energy-saving service, and may indicate that the reason for the refusal is that the terminal has not been granted permission to use the energy-saving service.

[0244] In some embodiments, after receiving the second message, the second network element can trigger session modification by updating the policy.

[0245] In some embodiments, the second network element updates the policy according to the second message by: determining to generate / update Policy Control and Charging (PCC) rules / policies based on the terminal's energy information in the second message. When generating / updating PCC rules, the service experience of the corresponding terminal's service session / service data stream (e.g., XRM service or multimodal data), such as QoS parameters, can be updated.

[0246] In some embodiments, the PCC rules are updated to reduce the power consumption of the terminal. For example, QoS adjustments are made, such as reducing the uplink Guaranteed Bit Rate (GBR) data stream bit rate.

[0247] In some embodiments, to update PCC rules, the second network element can interact with the third network element to obtain energy information / analysis of each node on the relevant user plane path. If the second network element locally stores the relevant energy information / analysis, the step of interacting with the third network element can be skipped. Generating PCC rules that match the terminal's energy information by taking into account the energy information / analysis of each node on the relevant user plane path can save the terminal's energy consumption.

[0248] It should be explained that a PCC rule is a set of information elements capable of detecting business data flows and providing parameters for policy control and / or charging control, as described in relevant technical documents. Therefore, updating a PCC rule is equivalent to updating a policy. In the event of a policy update, the corresponding session modification is executed.

[0249] In some embodiments, the second network element update strategy includes: updating a first strategy associated with the first session based on first energy information of nodes on the user plane UP path of the first session and / or energy information of the terminal in the second message. The update of the first strategy associated with the first session is based on the need to reduce the terminal's energy consumption. By using this method, considering the first energy information of nodes on the user plane UP path of the first session and / or the energy information of the terminal in the second message, the most suitable first strategy is generated / updated, thereby reducing the terminal's energy consumption.

[0250] The first energy information is provided by the third network element or pre-stored on the second network element. The third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

[0251] Optionally, the number of first sessions may be one or more, and the first session may be selected by the second network element, or the first session may be selected by the first network element and indicated to the second network element via a second message.

[0252] In some embodiments, the number of first sessions is multiple, determined by the selection of a first network element and / or a second network element.

[0253] In some embodiments, the first session may be selected by a first network element, and the first network element may indicate the selected / confirmed first session to a second network element. For example, the first network element may include the identifier of the selected / confirmed first session in a second message and send it to the second network element. For example, the first network element may send the identifier of the selected / confirmed first session to the second network element separately. This disclosure does not limit the manner in which the first network element indicates the first session to the second network element. For implementation methods regarding the first network element selecting the first session, please refer to the foregoing embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0254] In some embodiments, in addition to the first network element selecting / determining the first session, the second network element may also select / determine the first session. For example, the second network element selects one or more sessions belonging to the terminal and supporting energy-saving services as the first session based on the terminal identifier in the second message.

[0255] The terminal can have multiple sessions, one or more of which can be sessions supporting energy-saving services. These energy-saving service-supporting sessions can optimize / adjust the energy consumption of the terminal and / or network equipment by modifying the sessions. The second network element can select / determine one or more of these energy-saving service-supporting sessions as the first session.

[0256] In step S206, the second network element 1022 sends a third message to the fourth network element 1024.

[0257] In some embodiments, the second network element 1022 sends a third message to the fourth network element by initiating SM policy association modification.

[0258] In some embodiments, the fourth network element receives a third message. Optionally, the third message includes an identifier of the first session and / or a first policy. Optionally, the third message includes a first policy, which is determined and updated by the second network element based on the energy information reported by the terminal when the energy state meets the conditions.

[0259] In some embodiments, the third message is used to trigger a modification of the first session.

[0260] In some embodiments, the third message is used to instruct the first session modifier to execute.

[0261] In some embodiments, the name of the third message is not limited, and the name of the third message may be, for example, Session Modification Instruction.

[0262] It should be noted that in some embodiments, the second network element selected by the first network element (e.g., PCF1) can provide access management (AM) policies / rules. The second network element selected by the fourth network element during session establishment (e.g., PCF2) can provide session management (SM) policies / rules. If PCF1 and PCF2 are different, the first network element sends a first message to PCF1, PCF1 sends a first message to PCF2, and PCF2 initiates an SM policy update through the fourth network element, i.e., PCF2 sends a third message to the fourth network element.

[0263] In step S207, the fourth network element 1024 updates the user plane path of the first session based on the second energy information and / or the third message of the nodes on the user plane path.

[0264] In some embodiments, the fourth network element may decide to update the user plane UP path based on the updated policy information, namely the first policy and / or the terminal's energy information. For affected v-UPF nodes, the fourth network element (e.g., v-SMF) may execute the N4 session establishment / modification procedure.

[0265] If the user plane path is updated in the first session, the first session update needs to be performed.

[0266] It should be explained here that the terminal's home network can be simply referred to as the H network, and the terminal's visited network can be simply referred to as the V network, or the serving network. The terminal can roam from the H network to the V network.

[0267] In some embodiments, step S207 may be omitted.

[0268] In step S208, the fourth network element 1024 executes the first session modification procedure.

[0269] In some embodiments, the fourth network element responds to the third message and executes the first session modification procedure. Specifically, the fourth network element modifies the corresponding first session according to the first policy.

[0270] The specific details of the session modification procedure can be found in the descriptions in related technologies. For example, assuming the first session is a PDU session, the specific steps in the PDU session modification procedure defined in related technologies can be referred to, and this disclosure will not elaborate on the details of the session modification procedure.

[0271] 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.

[0272] In some embodiments, the terms "uplink", "uplink", and "physical uplink" can be used interchangeably.

[0273] In some embodiments, "acquire," "get," "obtain," "receive," "transmit," "bidirectional transmission," and "send and / or receive" can be used interchangeably and can be interpreted as receiving from other entities, acquiring from protocols, acquiring from higher layers, obtaining through self-processing, or autonomous implementation. Protocols include, for example, at least one of the 3GPP protocol, Wi-Fi protocol, and audio and / or video protocols.

[0274] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0275] 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.

[0276] In some embodiments, the determination or judgment can be made by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), or by a true or false value (boolean), or by a comparison of numerical values ​​(e.g., a comparison with a predetermined value), but is not limited thereto.

[0277] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0278] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S201 to S208. For example, step S201 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S204 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S206 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, steps S201 and S204 may be implemented as standalone embodiments, and steps S201, S204 and S206 may be implemented as standalone embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0279] In some embodiments, the order of any two steps S201 to S208 can be interchanged or they can be performed simultaneously. For example, the order of steps S202 and S203 can be interchanged or they can be performed simultaneously.

[0280] In some embodiments, steps S202 to S208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0281] In some embodiments, steps S201 to S203 and steps S205 to S208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0282] In some embodiments, steps S201 to S205, S207, and S208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0283] In some embodiments, steps S202-S203 and steps S205-S208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0284] In some embodiments, steps S202-S203, S205, S207, and S208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0285] 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.

[0286] Figure 3A is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a communication system 100, the method including:

[0287] In step S3101, if the energy status meets the conditions, the terminal 101 sends a first message to the first network element 1021.

[0288] The first message is used to trigger session modification. Alternatively, the first message is used to trigger an energy-saving service, which adjusts the energy consumption of the terminal during communication.

[0289] Optionally, triggering session modification / triggering energy-saving service includes: triggering modification of the first session that supports energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0290] Optionally, the energy state of the terminal is determined to satisfy the condition if at least one of the following conditions is met:

[0291] The battery level is below the first threshold.

[0292] The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0293] The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold, where the energy consumption ratio is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption.

[0294] Optionally, the first message includes energy information, which includes at least one of the following:

[0295] Battery level;

[0296] An indication that the battery level is below the first threshold;

[0297] Power consumption value;

[0298] An indication that the power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0299] Energy consumption ratio;

[0300] An indication that the energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold.

[0301] Optionally, at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is indicated by the network device when the terminal obtains permission to use the energy-saving service, or at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is pre-configured on the terminal.

[0302] Optionally, the terminal receives a session modification response message or an energy-saving service response message sent by the first network element.

[0303] In step S3102, the first network element 1021 generates a second message based on the first message and sends the second message to the second network element 1022.

[0304] The second message is used to trigger session modification.

[0305] Optionally, triggering session modification includes: triggering modification of the first session supporting energy-saving services, wherein the energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0306] Optionally, before generating the second message based on the first message and sending the second message to the second network element, the method includes: determining, based on the terminal's context or subscription data, that the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services.

[0307] Optionally, the first message includes the terminal's energy information, and the second network element is a network element that subscribes to the terminal's energy information change events.

[0308] Optionally, before generating the second message based on the first message and sending the second message to the second network element, the process includes: determining, based on the terminal's energy information in the first message, that the conditions for triggering session modification are met.

[0309] Optionally, the terminal's energy information includes at least one of the following:

[0310] Battery level;

[0311] An indication that the battery level is below the first threshold;

[0312] Power consumption value;

[0313] An indication that the power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0314] Energy consumption ratio, where the energy consumption ratio is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption;

[0315] An indication that the energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold.

[0316] Optionally, the conditions for triggering session modification are determined to be met if at least one of the following conditions is satisfied:

[0317] The battery level is below the first threshold.

[0318] The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold;

[0319] The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold;

[0320] Energy information includes an indication that the energy level is below a first threshold;

[0321] Energy information includes an indication that the power consumption value is higher than a second threshold;

[0322] Energy information includes indications that the energy consumption ratio is higher than a third threshold.

[0323] Optionally, the second message includes at least one of the following:

[0324] The terminal's energy information as described in the first message;

[0325] Terminal identifier;

[0326] AF routing information;

[0327] The identifier of the first session determined by the first network element.

[0328] In step S3103, the second network element 1022 sends a third message to the fourth network element based on the second message update strategy.

[0329] Optionally, the second network element receives a second message sent by the first network element. The second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of a first session modification that supports energy-saving services. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message. The first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used by the terminal to request the triggering of energy-saving services. The energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0330] Optionally, triggering session modification includes: triggering modification of the first session supporting energy-saving services, wherein the energy-saving services are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0331] Optionally, updating the policy based on the second message includes: updating the first policy associated with the first session according to the first energy information of the nodes on the user plane UP path of the first session and / or the energy information of the terminal in the second message.

[0332] Optionally, the first energy information is provided by a third network element or pre-stored on a second network element, wherein the third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

[0333] Optionally, the number of first sessions may be one or more, the first session may be selected by the second network element, or the first session may be indicated by the second message.

[0334] Optionally, the third message includes the identifier of the first session and / or the first policy, and the third message is used to trigger modification of the first session.

[0335] In step S3104, the fourth network element performs session modification based on the third message.

[0336] Optionally, the corresponding first session can be modified according to the first strategy.

[0337] Optionally, the first session is a session that supports energy-saving services, which are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

[0338] Optionally, before modifying the corresponding first session according to the first strategy, the process includes: updating the UP path of the first session according to the second energy information of the nodes on the user plane UP path and / or the first strategy.

[0339] Optionally, the second energy information is provided by the third network element or pre-stored on the fourth network element, wherein the third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

[0340] Optionally, the fourth network element sends a session modification response to the terminal through the first network element.

[0341] 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.

[0342] Figure 3B is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3B, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a terminal 101, the method including:

[0343] Step S3201: If the terminal's energy status meets the conditions, send a first message to the first network element. The first message is used to trigger the energy-saving service.

[0344] 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.

[0345] Figure 3C is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3C, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a first network element 1021, the method including:

[0346] Step S3301: Receive a first message sent by the terminal when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used to trigger the energy-saving service.

[0347] Step S3302: Generate a second message based on the first message and send the second message to the second network element. The second message is used to trigger the first session modification that supports energy-saving services.

[0348] 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.

[0349] Figure 3D is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3D, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a second network element 1022, the method including:

[0350] Step S3401: Receive a second message sent by the first network element. The second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of a first session modification that supports energy-saving services. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message. The first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used by the terminal to request the triggering of energy-saving services.

[0351] Step S3402: Based on the second message, the first policy is updated to trigger a modification of the first session.

[0352] 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.

[0353] Figure 3E is a flowchart illustrating a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3E, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a fourth network element 1024, the method including:

[0354] Step S3501: Receive a third message sent by the second network element. The third message includes a first strategy, which is determined and updated by the second network element based on the energy information reported by the terminal when the energy status meets the conditions.

[0355] Step S3502: Modify the corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

[0356] 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.

[0357] Figure 4A is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4A, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a communication system 100, assuming that the first network element is AMF, the second network element is PCF, the third network element is ECF or EIF, the fourth network element is SMF, the fifth network element is UPF, and the session is a PDU session. The method includes:

[0358] Step S4101: When the UE battery level is lower than the threshold, the UE sends a UL NAS message to the AMF.

[0359] Among them, UL NAS messages include 5G MM (Mobility Management) status, UL NAS transmissions, etc.

[0360] Optionally, the message may include UE battery level information or a low battery indication.

[0361] Optionally, the battery capacity threshold is provided by the CN (Core Network) during the energy efficiency service (i.e., energy saving service) authorization period.

[0362] In step S4102, after receiving the UL NAS message, the AMF checks the UE subscription data and sends a UE battery level notification to the PCF.

[0363] Optionally, UE battery power information or low battery indication may be included in the N1 notification message.

[0364] Optionally, if the energy efficiency service is not included in the UE's contracted data, no further steps are performed.

[0365] Optionally, for UEs that subscribe to energy efficiency services, it is assumed that the PCF has created and subscribed to the UE battery power event during the UE registration process.

[0366] In step S4103, based on the received UE battery power information or low battery indication, the PCF decides to update the PCC rule.

[0367] Optionally, to update PCC rules, the PCF may interact with the ECF to obtain energy information / analysis. This step can be skipped if the energy information / analysis is stored locally.

[0368] Optionally, the PCF selected by the AMF (e.g., PCF1) provides the AM policy. The PCF selected by the SMF during PDU session establishment (e.g., PCF2) provides the SM policy. If PCF1 and PCF2 are different, the AMF sends a UE battery level notification message to PCF1, PCF1 sends a UE battery level notification message to PCF2, and PCF2 initiates an SM policy update through the SMF.

[0369] In step S4104, the PCF initiates an SM policy association modification to notify the SMF of the policy modification information.

[0370] Optionally, the PCF selects one or more PDU sessions (i.e., the first session) and establishes SM policy associations for these PDU sessions.

[0371] In step S4105, based on the updated policy, the SMF determines to modify the UE PDU session to improve energy efficiency.

[0372] Optionally, the SMF can invoke the energy harvesting service provided by the ECF to obtain energy-related information about managed UPF nodes and / or suggested UPF nodes, thereby improving energy efficiency. This step can be skipped if the energy information is stored locally.

[0373] In step S4106, based on the updated strategy information and / or energy information, the SMF determines to update the user plane (UP) path.

[0374] Optionally, for affected v-UPF nodes, v-SMF can execute the N4 session establishment / modification procedure.

[0375] Step S4107: The SMF executes the steps in the PDU session modification procedure.

[0376] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0377] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4107. For example, step S4101 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S4102 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S4104 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, steps S4101 and S4102 may be implemented as standalone embodiments, and steps S4101, S4102 and S4104 may be implemented as standalone embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0378] In some embodiments, the order of any two steps in steps S4101 to S4107 can be interchanged or they can be performed simultaneously.

[0379] In some embodiments, steps S4102 to S4107 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0380] In some embodiments, steps S4101 and S4103 to S4107 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0381] In some embodiments, steps S4101 to S4103 and steps S4105 to S4107 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0382] In some embodiments, steps S4103 to S4107 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0383] In some embodiments, steps S4103 and S4105 to S4107 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0384] 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.

[0385] Figure 4B is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4B, the embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a communication method executed by a communication system 100, assuming that the first network element is AF, the second network element is PCF, the third network element is ECF or EIF, the fourth network element is SMF, the fifth network element is UPF, and the session is a PDU session. The method includes:

[0386] Step S4201: When the UE battery level is lower than the threshold, the UE sends a UE battery level report to the AF through the application layer.

[0387] Optionally, the UE battery power report may include UE battery power information or a low battery power indication.

[0388] In step S4202, after receiving the UE's battery level report, the AF will check the local policy and decide to send an energy service request to the PCF through NEF (Network Capability Opening Function).

[0389] Optionally, the energy service request may include the UE identifier (identifier at the application layer), UE battery power information / low battery indication, and AF traffic information (in the 5G communication field, AF traffic information refers to the information that the AF sends to the 5G core network through NEF to affect the routing decision of PDUSession traffic).

[0390] In step S4203, based on the received UE battery power information or low battery indication, the PCF decides to update the PCC rule.

[0391] Optionally, to update PCC rules, the PCF may interact with the ECF to obtain energy information / analysis. This step can be skipped if the energy information / analysis is stored locally.

[0392] Optionally, the PCF can check whether the UE has subscribed to an energy efficiency service. If the UE has not subscribed to an energy efficiency service, the PCF can refuse to update the PCC rules.

[0393] Step S4204: PCF initiates SM policy association modification to notify SMF of policy modification information.

[0394] Optionally, the PCF selects one or more PDU sessions and initiates SM policy associations for these PDU sessions.

[0395] In step S4205, the PCF sends an energy service response to the AF via the NEF.

[0396] In step S4206, based on the updated policy, the SMF decides to modify the UE PDU session to extend UE battery life.

[0397] Optionally, the SMF can invoke the energy harvesting service provided by the ECF to obtain energy-related information for managed UPF nodes and / or suggested UPF nodes, thereby improving energy efficiency. This step can be skipped if the energy information is already stored locally.

[0398] In step S4207, based on the updated strategy information and / or energy information, the SMF determines to update the UP path.

[0399] Optionally, for affected UPF nodes, SMF can execute the N4 session establishment / modification procedure.

[0400] Step S4208: The SMF executes the steps in the PDU session modification procedure.

[0401] In some embodiments, if an arrow in the interaction diagram representing the sending of information, signaling, etc. from one subject to another passes through other subjects, it can be interpreted as the information being forwarded from one subject to another via other subjects, or it can be interpreted as the information being sent from one subject to another without passing through other subjects.

[0402] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4201 to S4208. For example, step S4201 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step S4202 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, step S4204 may be implemented as an independent embodiment, steps S4201 and S4202 may be implemented as independent embodiments, and steps S4201, S4202 and S4204 may be implemented as independent embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0403] In some embodiments, the order of any two steps in steps S4201 to S4208 can be interchanged or they can be performed simultaneously.

[0404] In some embodiments, steps S4202 to S4208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0405] In some embodiments, steps S4201 and S4203 to S4208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0406] In some embodiments, steps S4201 to S4203 and steps S4205 to S4208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0407] In some embodiments, steps S4203 to S4208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0408] In some embodiments, steps S4203 and S4205 to S4208 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0409] 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.

[0410] In some embodiments, the steps performed on the terminal side include at least one of the following:

[0411] When the battery level is below a threshold, the UE should be able to report its battery level to the AMF.

[0412] When the UE's battery level is below a threshold, the UE should be able to initiate the PDU session modification procedure.

[0413] The UE should be able to receive PDU session modification response messages from the AMF.

[0414] The UE should be able to send a UE battery level report to the AF through the application layer.

[0415] In some embodiments, the steps performed on the AMF side include at least one of the following:

[0416] The AMF should be able to notify the PCF of the UE's low battery status.

[0417] AMF should be able to examine UE subscription data before requesting PCF to update PCC rules.

[0418] In some embodiments, the steps performed on the PCF side include at least one of the following:

[0419] The PCF should be able to receive low battery indications from the AMF or AF for the UE.

[0420] PCF should be able to initiate the SM policy association modification procedure to extend UE battery life.

[0421] PCF should be able to examine UE subscription data to determine whether the UE has subscribed to energy efficiency services.

[0422] In some embodiments, the steps performed on the SMF side include at least one of the following:

[0423] SMF should be able to receive updated PCC rules to modify PDU sessions and improve energy efficiency.

[0424] In some possible cases, simple modifications can be made to the embodiments of this disclosure. For example, the terminal may determine that the energy state meets the conditions when the power value is higher than or equal to a first threshold, or the power consumption value is lower than or equal to a second threshold, or the energy consumption ratio value is lower than or equal to a third threshold. Then, a first message is sent to the first network element, which requests to disable the energy-saving service. Requesting to disable the energy-saving service includes triggering a modification of a second session supporting the energy consumption service. By executing the second session modification procedure, the service / service quality is enhanced and the user's service experience is improved by sacrificing terminal energy efficiency and increasing terminal energy consumption. The process of requesting session modification is similar to the aforementioned embodiments and will not be repeated here.

[0425] 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.

[0426] 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.

[0427] 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).

[0428] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Terminal 5100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5A, terminal 5100 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5101, a processing module 5102, etc. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5101 is used to send a first message to a first network element when the energy state of the terminal meets the conditions, the first message being used to trigger session modification. Optionally, the transceiver module 5101 is used to execute at least one of the communication steps (e.g., steps S201, S204, S206, but not limited thereto) executed by terminal 101 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here. Optionally, the processing module 5102 is used to execute at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S202, S203, S205, S207, S208, but not limited thereto) executed by terminal 101 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here.

[0429] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a network device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The network device 5200 is used to perform any of the above methods. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 5B, the network device 5200 may include at least one of a transceiver module 5201, a processing module 5202, etc.

[0430] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is configured to receive a first message sent by the terminal when the energy state meets the conditions, the first message being used to trigger session modification; generate a second message based on the first message, and send the second message to the second network element, the second message being used to trigger session modification.

[0431] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is used to receive a second message sent by the first network element. The second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of session modification. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message. The first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy state meets the conditions. The first message is used by the terminal to request the triggering of session modification. The processing module 5202 is used to trigger session modification by updating the policy based on the second message.

[0432] In some embodiments, the transceiver module 5201 is used to receive a third message sent by the second network element, the third message including a first strategy, the first strategy being determined and updated by the second network element based on the energy information reported by the terminal when the energy status meets the conditions; the processing module 5202 is used to modify the corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

[0433] Optionally, the transceiver module 5101 is used to execute at least one of the communication steps (such as steps S201, S204, and S206, but not limited thereto) performed by the network device 102 (e.g., at least one of the first network element 1021, the second network element 1022, and the fourth network element 1024) in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here. Optionally, the processing module 5102 is used to execute at least one of the other steps (such as steps S202, S203, S205, S207, and S208, but not limited thereto) performed by the network device 102 (e.g., at least one of the first network element 1021, the second network element 1022, and the fourth network element 1024) in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here.

[0434] 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.

[0435] 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.

[0436] In some embodiments, the processing module can be replaced by the processor, and the transceiver module can be replaced by the transceiver.

[0437] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 6100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 6100 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 6100 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.

[0438] As shown in Figure 6A, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 includes one or more processors 6101. The processor 6101 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 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 6100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0439] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more transceivers 6102. When the communication device 6100 includes one or more transceivers 6102, the transceiver 6102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S201, S204, S206, but not limited thereto), and the processor 6101 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S202, S203, S205, S207, S208, but not limited thereto). 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, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0440] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more memories 6103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 6103 to cause the communication device 6100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 6103 may also be located outside the communication device 6100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 6100 may include one or more interface circuits 6104. Optionally, the interface circuit 6104 is connected to the memory 6103 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 6103 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 6103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 6104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 6103 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 6101.

[0441] The communication device 6100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 6100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 6100 may not be limited by FIG. 6A. The communication device may be a standalone device or a 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; (5) 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.; (6) others, etc.

[0442] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of chip 6200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For cases where the communication device 6100 can be a chip or a chip system, the schematic diagram of chip 6200 shown in Figure 6B can be referenced, but is not limited thereto.

[0443] Chip 6200 includes one or more processors 6201. Chip 6200 is used to perform any of the methods described above.

[0444] In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more interface circuits 6202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more memories 6203 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 6203 may be located outside of chip 6200. Optionally, interface circuit 6202 is connected to memory 6203, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from memory 6203 or other devices, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to send data and / or instructions to memory 6203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 6202 can read data and / or instructions stored in memory 6203 and send the data and / or instructions to processor 6201.

[0445] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 6202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S201, S204, and S206, but not limited thereto). The interface circuit 6202 performing the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method refers, for example, to the interface circuit 6202 performing data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 6201, the chip 6200, the memory 6203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 6201 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S202, S203, S205, S207, and S208, but not limited thereto).

[0446] 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.

[0447] 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.

[0448] 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.

[0449] 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 communication method, characterized in that, The method, executed by a terminal, includes: When the energy state of the terminal meets the conditions, a first message is sent to the first network element. The first message is used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The triggering of energy-saving services includes: triggering modifications to the first session that supports energy-saving services.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The energy state of the terminal is determined to satisfy the condition if at least one of the following conditions is met: The battery level is below the first threshold. The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold; The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold, wherein the energy consumption ratio is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first message includes energy information, which includes at least one of the following: Battery level; The indication that the battery level is below a first threshold; Power consumption value; The power consumption value is an indication that it is higher than the second threshold; The energy consumption ratio; The energy consumption ratio is an indication that it is higher than the third threshold.

5. The method according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, At least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is indicated by the network device when the terminal obtains permission to use the energy-saving service, or at least one of the first threshold, the second threshold, and the third threshold is pre-configured on the terminal.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, The method, executed by the first network element, includes: The receiving terminal sends a first message when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. A second message is generated based on the first message, and the second message is sent to the second network element. The second message is used to trigger the modification of the first session that supports the energy-saving service.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Before generating the second message based on the first message and sending the second message to the second network element, the process includes: Based on the context or subscription data of the terminal, it is determined that the terminal is authorized to use energy-saving services.

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that, The first message includes the energy information of the terminal, and the second network element is a network element that subscribes to the energy information change event of the terminal.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6-8, characterized in that, Before generating the second message based on the first message and sending the second message to the second network element, the process includes: Based on the terminal's energy information as described in the first message, it is determined that the conditions for triggering the first session modification are met.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The energy information of the terminal includes at least one of the following: Battery level; The indication that the battery level is below a first threshold; Power consumption value; The power consumption value is an indication that it is higher than the second threshold; Energy consumption ratio, wherein the energy consumption ratio is the ratio of traditional energy consumption to total energy consumption; The energy consumption ratio is an indication that it is higher than the third threshold.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The conditions for triggering session modification are determined to be met if at least one of the following conditions is met: The battery level is lower than the first threshold; The power consumption value is higher than the second threshold; The energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold; The energy information includes an indication that the energy value is lower than the first threshold; The energy information includes an indication that the power consumption value is higher than the second threshold; The energy information includes an indication that the energy consumption ratio is higher than the third threshold.

12. The method according to any one of claims 6-11, characterized in that, The second message includes at least one of the following: The energy information of the terminal mentioned in the first message; The identifier of the terminal; AF routing information; The identifier of the first session determined by the first network element.

13. A communication method, characterized in that, The method, executed by the second network element, includes: The system receives a second message sent by a first network element. The second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of a first session modification that supports energy-saving services. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message. The first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used by the terminal to request the triggering of the energy-saving service. The energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. Based on the second message, the first policy is updated to trigger the modification of the first session.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, Updating the first policy based on the second message includes: The first policy associated with the first session is updated based on the first energy information of the nodes on the user plane UP path of the first session and / or the energy information of the terminal in the second message.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first energy information is provided by a third network element or pre-stored on the second network element, wherein the third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

16. The method according to any one of claims 13-15, characterized in that, The number of the first sessions is one or more, the first session is selected by the second network element, or the first session is indicated by the second message.

17. The method according to any one of claims 13-16, characterized in that, The step of triggering a first session modification by updating the policy based on the second message includes: A third message is sent to the fourth network element. The third message includes the identifier of the first session and / or the updated first policy. The third message is used to trigger the modification of the first session.

18. A communication method, characterized in that, The method, executed by the fourth network element, includes: The third message sent by the second network element is received. The third message includes a first strategy, which is determined and updated by the second network element based on the energy information reported by the terminal when the energy status meets the conditions. Modify the corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that, The first session is a session that supports energy-saving services, which are used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

20. The method according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that, Before modifying the corresponding first session according to the first strategy, the following is included: Update the UP path of the first session based on the second energy information of the nodes on the user plane UP path and / or the first strategy.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that, The second energy information is provided by the third network element or pre-stored on the fourth network element, wherein the third network element is used to monitor or collect the energy information of each network node.

22. A terminal, characterized in that, include: The transceiver module is used to send a first message to a first network element when the energy state of the terminal meets the conditions. The first message is used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication.

23. A first network element, characterized in that, include: The transceiver module is used to receive a first message sent by the terminal when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used to trigger an energy-saving service, wherein the energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. The transceiver module generates a second message based on the first message and sends the second message to a second network element. The second message is used to trigger the modification of a first session that supports the energy-saving service.

24. A second network element, characterized in that, include: The transceiver module is used to receive a second message sent by a first network element. The second message is used by the first network element to request the triggering of a first session modification that supports energy-saving services. The second message is generated by the first network element based on the first message. The first message is sent by the terminal to the first network element when the energy status meets the conditions. The first message is used by the terminal to request the triggering of the energy-saving service. The energy-saving service is used to adjust the energy consumption generated by the terminal during communication. The processing module is configured to trigger the modification of the first session by updating the first policy based on the second message.

25. A fourth network element, characterized in that, include: The transceiver module is used to receive a third message sent by the second network element. The third message includes a first strategy, which is determined and updated by the second network element based on the energy information reported by the terminal when the energy status meets the conditions. The processing module is used to modify the corresponding first session according to the first strategy.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, include: One or more processors; A memory coupled to the processor, the memory storing executable instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the communication method of any one of claims 1-21 to be executed.

27. A communication system, characterized in that, The device includes a terminal, a first network element, a second network element, and a fourth network element, wherein the terminal is configured to implement the communication method of any one of claims 1-5, the first network element is configured to implement the communication method of any one of claims 6-12, the second network element is configured to implement the communication method of any one of claims 13-17, and the fourth network element is configured to implement the communication method of any one of claims 18-21.

28. A storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that, When the instruction is executed on the communication device, the communication device performs the communication method according to any one of claims 1-21.

29. A program product comprising at least one of a program and instructions, characterized in that, When at least one of the programs or instructions is executed by the communication device, it implements the communication method according to any one of claims 1-21.

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