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

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to communication methods, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium, and a program product. A method is executed by a first node, and comprises: selecting a second node for a first session on the basis of first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session being associated with the MC service, and the second node being used for processing service data of the first session. The solution of the present disclosure can achieve network node selection supporting MC services.

Description

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

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

[0002] As people's lives and work become increasingly intelligent, more and more massive communication (MC) terminals will be deployed. MC services are typically implemented based on a large number of MC terminals. Summary of the Invention

[0003] How to select suitable network nodes to support MC services is a technical problem that needs to be solved.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided. The method is performed by a first node. The method includes: selecting a second node for a first session based on the first information, wherein the first information indicates a first function associated with an MC service, the first session is associated with an MC service, and the second node is used to process service data of the first session.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided. The method is performed by a second node. The method includes: receiving fourth information sent by a first node, the fourth information indicating a function associated with an MC service supported by the first node; and / or sending fifth information to the first node, the fifth information indicating a function associated with an MC service supported by the second node; wherein the second node is selected by the first node for a first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session is associated with an MC service, and the second node is used to process service data of the first session.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a communication method is provided. The method is performed by a fourth node. The method includes: sending second information to a first node, the second information indicating an available second node, the available second node being used by the first node to select a second node for a first session based on the first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session being associated with an MC service, and the selected second node being used to process service data of the first session.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided. This communication device is used to perform the communication method as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0008] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided. The communication system includes a first node, a second node, and a fourth node. The first node is configured to perform the communication method as described in the first aspect. The second node is configured to perform the communication method as described in the second aspect. The fourth node is configured to perform the communication method as described in the third aspect.

[0009] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided. The storage medium stores instructions. When executed on a communication device, the instructions cause the communication device to perform the communication method as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a program product is provided. The program product includes at least one of a program and instructions. When the program or instructions are executed by a communication device, they implement the steps of the communication method as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0011] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program is provided. When the computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the communication method as described in the first, second, or third aspect.

[0012] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a chip or chip system is provided. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to perform the communication methods described in the first, second, or third aspects.

[0013] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it is possible to select network nodes that support MC services.

[0014] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the invention.

[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram of a communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 3 is another interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 4 is another interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 5A is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the communication method provided according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 5B is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the communication method provided according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 5C is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the communication method provided according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 5D is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the communication method provided according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0027] This disclosure provides a communication method, communication device, communication system, storage medium, and program product.

[0028] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method. The method is performed by a first node. The method includes: selecting a second node for a first session based on first information, wherein the first information indicates a first function associated with an MC service, the first session is associated with an MC service, and the second node is used to process service data of the first session.

[0029] In the above embodiments, based on the first function associated with the MC service, the first node can select a suitable second node for the MC service associated session to support the MC service requirements, thereby improving the efficiency of node selection and enhancing the reliability of the MC service.

[0030] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the MC service; predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0031] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session or to request changes to a second node for an already established first session.

[0032] In the above embodiments, the first function of the MC service association indicated by the first information is determined based on at least one of the service characteristics and / or second function of the MC service association, the predefined information of the MC service association, the network slice information of the MC service association, and the functional requirement information of the MC service, so that the second node selected according to the first information supports the specific requirements of the MC service, thereby improving the efficiency of node selection and thus enhancing the reliability of the MC service.

[0033] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the selected second node is a second node that supports the first function.

[0034] In the above embodiments, the selected second node supports the first function of the MC service. Thus, the selected second node can support the needs of the MC service, thereby improving the reliability of the MC service.

[0035] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the above method further includes: receiving second information sent by a fourth node, the second information indicating available second nodes, the selected second node being one or more of the available second nodes.

[0036] In some embodiments, in conjunction with the first aspect, the above method further includes: sending third information to a fourth node, the third information being used to request the fourth node to provide an available second node; and receiving second information sent by the fourth node based on the third information.

[0037] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the third information is also used to indicate the first function, and the available second node is determined by the fourth node based on the first function.

[0038] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, after selecting a second node for a first session based on the first information, the method further includes at least one of the following: sending fourth information to the selected second node, the fourth information indicating the functions associated with MC services supported by the first node; and receiving fifth information sent by the selected second node, the fifth information indicating the functions associated with MC services supported by the selected second node.

[0039] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth or fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node and the selected second node.

[0040] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the MC service includes 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services.

[0041] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: IoT services in a 6G environment; related services of IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; related services of IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0042] In a second aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method. This method is executed by a second node. The method includes: receiving fourth information sent by a first node, the fourth information indicating a function associated with an MC service supported by the first node; sending fifth information to the first node, the fifth information indicating a function associated with an MC service supported by the second node; wherein the second node is selected by the first node for a first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session is associated with an MC service, and the second node is used to process service data of the first session.

[0043] In the above embodiment, the second node is selected by the first node based on the first function associated with the MC service. The selected second node can support the MC service requirements. Then, the first node and the selected second node interact with the MC service functions they support, which can establish a session association relationship between the first node and the second node, thereby establishing the first session associated with the MC service, improving the success rate of establishing the MC service session, and thus improving the reliability of the MC service.

[0044] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth or fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node and the second node.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second function associated with the MC service; predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0046] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session or to request changes to a second node for an established first session.

[0047] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first node is the second node selected by the first session as a second node that supports the first function.

[0048] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the selected second node is one or more of the available second nodes determined by the fourth node.

[0049] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the available second node has been registered on the fourth node.

[0050] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the MC service includes 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services.

[0051] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: IoT services in a 6G environment; related services of IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; related services of IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0052] In a third aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication method. This method is executed by a fourth node. The method includes: sending second information to a first node, the second information indicating an available second node, the available second node being used by the first node to select a second node for a first session based on the first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session being associated with an MC service, and the selected second node being used to process service data for the first session.

[0053] In the above embodiments, the fourth node can provide the first node with an available second node, enabling the first node to select a suitable second node for the MC service-related session based on the first function associated with the MC service. This supports the MC service requirements, thereby improving the efficiency of node selection and enhancing the reliability of the MC service.

[0054] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: indication information provided by the third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the MC service; predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session or to request a change of a second node for an established first session.

[0056] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the selected second node is a second node that supports the first function.

[0057] In some embodiments, in conjunction with the third aspect, the above method further includes: receiving third information sent by the first node, the third information being used to request the fourth node to provide an available second node; and sending second information to the first node based on the third information.

[0058] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the MC service includes 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services.

[0059] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: IoT services in a 6G environment; related services of IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; related services of IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0060] In a fourth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, such as a first node. The communication device includes: a processing module configured to select a second node for a first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session being associated with an MC service, and the second node being used to process service data of the first session.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the MC service; predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0062] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session or to request a change of a second node for an established first session.

[0063] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the selected second node is a second node that supports the first function.

[0064] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the above-described communication device further includes: a transceiver module configured to receive second information sent by the fourth node, the second information indicating available second nodes, and the selected second node being one or more of the available second nodes.

[0065] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the above-mentioned communication device further includes: a transceiver module configured to: send third information to the fourth node, the third information being used to request the fourth node to provide an available second node; and receive second information sent by the fourth node based on the third information.

[0066] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the third information is also used to indicate the first function, and the available second node is determined by the fourth node based on the first function.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the transceiver module is further configured to: after the processing module selects a second node for the first session based on the first information, perform at least one of the following: send fourth information to the selected second node, the fourth information indicating the functions associated with the MC service supported by the first node; receive fifth information sent by the selected second node, the fifth information indicating the functions associated with the MC service supported by the selected second node.

[0068] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth or fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node and the selected second node.

[0069] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the MC service includes 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services.

[0070] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: IoT services in a 6G environment; related services of IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; related services of IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0071] In a fifth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, such as a second node. The communication device includes a transceiver module configured to perform at least one of the following: receiving fourth information sent by a first node, the fourth information indicating a function associated with an MC service supported by the first node; sending fifth information to the first node, the fifth information indicating a function associated with an MC service supported by the second node; wherein the second node is selected by the first node for a first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session is associated with an MC service, and the second node is used to process service data of the first session.

[0072] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth or fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node and the second node.

[0073] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second function associated with the MC service; predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0074] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session or to request changes to a second node for an established first session.

[0075] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the first node is the second node selected by the first session as a second node that supports the first function.

[0076] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the selected second node is one or more of the available second nodes determined by the fourth node.

[0077] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the available second node has been registered on the fourth node.

[0078] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, the MC service includes 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services.

[0079] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fifth aspect, in some embodiments, 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: IoT services in a 6G environment; related services of IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; related services of IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0080] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, such as a fourth node. The communication device includes: a transceiver module configured to send second information to a first node, the second information indicating an available second node, the available second node being used by the first node to select a second node for a first session based on the first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with an MC service, the first session being associated with an MC service, and the selected second node being used to process service data for the first session.

[0081] In conjunction with some embodiments of the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, the first information is determined based on at least one of the following: indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the MC service; predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0082] In conjunction with some embodiments of the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session or to request a change of a second node for an established first session.

[0083] In conjunction with some embodiments of the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, the selected second node is a second node that supports the first function.

[0084] In conjunction with some embodiments of the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, the transceiver module is further configured to receive third information sent by the first node, the third information being used to request the fourth node to provide an available second node; and to send second information to the first node based on the third information.

[0085] In conjunction with some embodiments of the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, the MC service includes 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services.

[0086] In conjunction with some embodiments of the sixth aspect, in some embodiments, 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: IoT services in a 6G environment; related services of IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; related services of IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0087] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device. This communication device is used to perform the communication methods described in any of the first, second, third, and possible embodiments thereof.

[0088] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system. The communication system includes a first node, a second node, and a fourth node. The first node is configured to perform a communication method as described in any of the first aspect and its possible embodiments. The second node is configured to perform a communication method as described in any of the second aspect and its possible embodiments. The fourth node is configured to perform a communication method as described in any of the third aspect and its possible embodiments.

[0089] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a storage medium storing instructions. When executed on a communication device, the instructions cause the communication device to perform the communication method as described in any of the first, second, third, and possible embodiments thereof.

[0090] In an eighth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product. The program product includes at least one of a program and instructions. When executed by a communication device, the program or instructions implement the steps of the communication method as described in any of the first, second, third, and possible embodiments thereof.

[0091] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program. When this computer program is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the communication methods described in any of the first, second, third, and possible embodiments thereof.

[0092] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system. The chip or chip system includes processing circuitry. The processing circuitry is configured to perform the communication methods described in any of the first, second, third, and possible embodiments thereof.

[0093] It is understood that the aforementioned communication devices, communication systems, storage media, program products, computer programs, chips, and chip systems are all used to execute the methods provided 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.

[0094] This disclosure provides a communication method, a communication device, a communication system, a storage medium, and a program product. In some embodiments, terms such as communication method, information processing method, and information transmission method can be used interchangeably; terms such as communication device, communication equipment, network equipment, network function, and network entity can be used interchangeably; and terms such as communication system and information processing system can be used interchangeably.

[0095] 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.

[0096] In the embodiments disclosed herein, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of the various embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In the embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as “a,” “one,” “a kind,” “the,” “the,” “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 articles such as “a,” “an,” and “the” are used in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular or a plural expression.

[0099] In the embodiments of this disclosure, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0100] In some embodiments, terms such as “at least one (at least one, one or more)” and “one or more” can be used interchangeably.

[0101] 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 B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of 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.

[0102] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execution of A regardless of B); in some embodiments, B (execution of B regardless of A); 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, C, etc.

[0103] 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. As another example, if the object being described is "information", then "second information" and "first information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0104] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0105] In some embodiments, the terms “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “if…”, “if…”, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0106] In some embodiments, terms such as “greater than,” “more than,” “higher than,” and “exceeding” can be used interchangeably; terms such as “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably; terms such as “less than,” “less than,” and “lower than” can be used interchangeably; and terms such as “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below” can be used interchangeably.

[0107] In some embodiments, devices, etc., can be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to the names recorded in the embodiments. Terms such as “device”, “equipment”, “circuit”, “node”, “function”, “unit”, “section”, “system”, “network”, “chip”, “chip system”, “entity”, and “subject” can be used interchangeably.

[0108] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0109] 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.

[0110] 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.

[0111] 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.

[0112] 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.

[0113] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0114] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0115] 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.

[0116] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 includes a first node 101, a second node 102, a third node 103, and a fourth node 104.

[0117] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can be used to implement functions such as management, control, and billing triggering of MC services.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may be, for example, a massive communication function (MCF). In some embodiments, the MCF may also be referred to as a massive communication management function (MCMF).

[0119] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may be deployed on, for example, a session management function (SMF).

[0120] In some embodiments, the second node 102 can be used to handle functions such as routing and forwarding of MC services.

[0121] In some embodiments, the second node 102 may be, for example, a user plane function (UPF).

[0122] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be a consumer of the MC service. In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be a node requesting the implementation of the MC service.

[0123] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be an application function (AF). In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be an AF dedicated to providing MC services, such as a massive communication application function (MCAF).

[0124] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be a network exposure function (NEF).

[0125] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be a function or device in the core network. In one example, the third node 103 may be an access and mobility management function (AMF). In one example, the third node 103 may be an SMF. In one example, the third node 103 may be a policy and charging rules function (PCF). In one example, the third node 103 may also be another UPF different from the second node 102. In one example, the third node 103 may be user data management (UDM).

[0126] In some embodiments, the third node 103 can be used to implement operations, administration and management (OAM) configuration for network functions.

[0127] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be an OAM function.

[0128] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may also function as user equipment (UE).

[0129] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 can be used to maintain the NF profile of available network function (NF) instances and the services supported by the NF instances.

[0130] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 may be, for example, a network repository function (NRF).

[0131] In some embodiments, MC services may include 6G ambient IoT (AIoT) services. In one embodiment, 6G AIoT services may further include at least one of the following: 6G AIoT services, services related to IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities, services related to IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities, and IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

[0132] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may be an AIoT controller. In one example, the first node 101 may be an AIoT function (AIoTF) or an AIoT management function (AIoTMF).

[0133] In some embodiments, the terminal includes, but is not limited to, 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] In some embodiments, the communication system 100 described above may be a 5G communication system or a 6G communication system. It should be noted that the communication system 100 may also be other communication systems, such as a 4G communication system, and this disclosure does not specifically limit it in this regard.

[0136] 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.

[0137] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1, or some of the main components in the communication system 100, but are not limited thereto. The main components shown in FIG1 are illustrative. The communication system 100 may include all or some of the main components in FIG1, or may include other main components other than those in FIG1. ​​The number and form of each main component are arbitrary. Each main component may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main components is illustrative. The main components 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.

[0138] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0139] In recent years, the Internet of Things (IoT) has received significant attention in the wireless communications world. With the widespread application of IoT technology in wireless communications, higher demands are being placed on the size, complexity, and power performance of IoT devices. More things are expected to be interconnected to improve productivity and enhance quality of life. Further reductions in the size, complexity, and power of IoT devices enable the deployment of billions, or even hundreds of billions, of IoT devices for various applications, providing added value throughout the value chain. However, IoT devices often require built-in energy storage devices such as batteries. This necessitates manual battery replacement or charging, increasing maintenance costs and reducing convenience. In some scenarios, this can even lead to security risks, such as in wireless sensors in the power industry and the oil industry.

[0140] To address the above issues, a novel IoT technology, namely AIoT technology, is proposed. Devices employing AIoT technology can be referred to as AIoT devices. AIoT devices can be powered through energy capture. For example, an AIoT device can capture energy from its surrounding environment in the form of electromagnetic waves, light, sound waves, etc., to achieve power supply. In some embodiments, an AIoT device may have limited energy storage capacity.

[0141] In some embodiments, AIoT devices can be categorized into three types. The first type of AIoT device has neither energy storage capability nor independent signal generation capability. The second type of AIoT device has energy storage capability but lacks independent signal generation capability. The third type of AIoT device has both energy storage capability and independent signal generation capability. For the first and second types of AIoT devices, signals can be generated through backscattering.

[0142] In some embodiments, the overall architecture of AIoT includes AIoT devices, readers, AIoT controllers, and AF.

[0143] Therefore, in different connection topologies, readers can be implemented by different types of devices. For example, a reader can be a base station, an intermediate node, a UE, etc. MC (Mobile Controller) is a development direction of 6G technology. In MC services, the number and types of devices participating in communication will increase. It is understood that MC services can also have other names, and this disclosure does not specifically limit this.

[0144] In some embodiments, devices employing MC technology can be categorized into weak-capability terminals and strong-capability terminals based on their capabilities. In some embodiments, a weak-capability terminal may be a terminal with relatively weak computing and / or communication capabilities. In one example, a weak-capability terminal may be characterized by small size, low complexity, and low power consumption. A weak-capability terminal may, for example, include a terminal supporting narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), AIoT, etc. In some embodiments, a strong-capability terminal may be a terminal with relatively strong computing and / or communication capabilities. A strong-capability terminal may, for example, be a terminal with a low network interaction frequency.

[0145] In some embodiments, the MC service is a 6G MC service. In one embodiment, the MC service may include a 6G AIoT service. In some embodiments, the 6G IoT service may include services related to high-capability devices, services related to low-capability devices, 6G AIoT services, IoT services supported by 6GUE, etc. In some embodiments, the MC service may include a 5G IoT service.

[0146] In some embodiments, network nodes such as UPFs can be used as network elements to implement MC services. When deploying a UPF in the network, the UPF needs to be registered with the NRF to facilitate the selection of a suitable UPF for the MC service. The selected UPF can support MC service sessions, support the transmission of messages and / or data for the MC service, and support the monitoring and statistics of events and usage for the MC service.

[0147] Therefore, determining the appropriate network nodes (such as UPFs) to support MC services is an urgent problem to be solved.

[0148] It should be noted that, in the embodiments disclosed herein, the term "node" can be replaced by at least one of the terms "network element," "network function," "network device," and "terminal." The term "IoT terminal" can be replaced by "IoT device."

[0149] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication method involved in this embodiment can be applied to a communication system 100. As shown in Figure 2, the communication method of this embodiment includes steps S201 to S207.

[0150] In step S201, the third node 103 sends an instruction message to the first node 101.

[0151] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may send indication information. In some embodiments, the indication information may be sent by the third node 103, but is not limited thereto, and may also be sent by other entities.

[0152] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may receive indication information. In some embodiments, the indication information may be received by the first node 101, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0153] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may send indication information to the first node 101 during the session establishment process of the MC service. In one embodiment, the indication information is also used to request the establishment of a first session. In one example, the first session is an MC packet data unit (PDU) session, and the session establishment process of the MC service is an MC PDU session establishment procedure.

[0154] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may send indication information to the first node 101 during the session modification process of the MC service. In some embodiments, the indication information is used to request a change of the second node for the established first session. In one example, the first session is an MC PDU session, and the session modification process of the MC service is an MC PDU session modification procedure.

[0155] In some embodiments, the indication information can be used to indicate information related to the MC service. In one embodiment, the indication information can indicate service characteristics and / or functions (such as a second function) associated with the MC service. In one example, the service characteristics associated with the MC service can be understood as one or more features of the MC service, such as message transmission characteristics of the MC service, data transmission characteristics of the MC service, events supporting the MC service, monitoring and statistics of usage supporting the MC service, etc. In one example, the second function associated with the MC service can also be understood as one or more functions associated with the MC service, which are used to implement one or more features associated with the MC service.

[0156] In some embodiments, the selection and reselection of the second node 102 can be specific to the MC service. In one embodiment, the indication information is related to the MC service, and all sessions associated with the MC service can apply this indication information. In some embodiments, the indication information can be used to trigger the first node 101 to discover and select a second node 102 that supports the MC service. In some embodiments, the indication information can be used to indicate information related to the MC service. In one embodiment, the indication information can indicate service characteristics and / or functions (such as a second function) associated with the MC service. In one example, the service characteristics associated with the MC service can be understood as one or more features of the MC service, such as message transmission characteristics of the MC service, data transmission characteristics of the MC service, events supporting the MC service, monitoring and statistics of usage supporting the MC service, etc. In one example, the second function associated with the MC service can also be understood as one or more functions associated with the MC service, which are used to implement one or more features associated with the MC service.

[0157] In some embodiments, the selection and reselection of the second node 102 can be for sessions associated with the MC service. In one embodiment, the indication information is associated with the session. These sessions can be used to carry service data of the MC service (such as MC service sessions). In one embodiment, the indication information can be used to trigger the first node 101 to discover and select a second node 102 that supports the MC service for the MC service session. In some embodiments, the indication information is used to indicate information related to the MC service for the MC service session. In one embodiment, the indication information can indicate service characteristics and / or functions (such as a second function) associated with the MC service for the MC service session. In one example, the service characteristics associated with the MC service for the MC service session can be understood as one or more characteristics of the MC service for the MC service session, such as message transmission characteristics of the MC service for the MC service session, data transmission characteristics of the MC service, events supporting the MC service, monitoring and statistics of usage supporting the MC service, etc. In one example, the second function associated with the MC service for the MC service session can also be understood as one or more functions associated with the MC service for the MC service session, and the one or more functions associated with the MC service are used to implement one or more characteristics associated with the MC service.

[0158] In some embodiments, the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service session indicated by the indication information can be understood as the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service session that the third node 103 expects or needs to support.

[0159] In some embodiments, the indication information is used for the first node 101 to determine first information, which can be used to implement at least one of the selection and reselection of the second node 102. In one embodiment, the first information is used to indicate one or more functions (such as a first function) associated with the MC service. Here, the function indicated by the first information can be one or more functions that implement the service characteristics indicated by the indication information, or at least one of the one or more functions indicated by the indication information.

[0160] In some embodiments, the first information can be used to implement the selection, reselection, etc. of the second node 102, the set of second nodes 102, and the instance of the second node 102. In some embodiments, the second node 102 can be a UPF. In this case, the indication information can be used to implement the selection, reselection, etc. of the UPF, the set of UPFs, and the UPF instance.

[0161] In some embodiments, the name of the indication information is not limited, and it may be, for example, service indication information, service assistance information, service configuration information, etc. In one example, the indication information may be a MC service support indication (massive communication service support indication) or a MC service indication (massive communication service indication).

[0162] In some embodiments, the third node 103 can be an SMF or a PCF. In this case, the indication information can indicate at least one of the policies (or rules) related to signaling transmission, data transmission, policy and charging control, etc., associated with the MC service, thereby indicating the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service. In one embodiment, the policy indicated by the indication information can be a policy and charging control rule (PCC), a quality of service (QoS) rule, an N4 rule, etc. In one example, the indication information can be a massive communication service indication.

[0163] In some embodiments, the third node 103 may be an MCAF, in which case the indication information also indicates that the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service are used for the selection and reselection of the second node 102. In one example, the indication information may be a massive communication service support indication.

[0164] In some embodiments, the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service are known to the first node 101, for example, the first node 101 stores historical data about specific and / or functions associated with the MC service, or the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service are predefined, etc. In this case, the indication information may only indicate that the second node 102 supports the MC service.

[0165] In step S202, the first node 101 determines the first information.

[0166] In some embodiments, the first node 101 determines the MC service associated functions that the second node 102 needs to support, and determines first information. In this case, the first information is used to indicate the MC service associated functions that the second node 102 needs to support.

[0167] In some embodiments, after receiving the indication information, the first node 101 can determine the first information based on the indication information. In some embodiments, after receiving the indication information, the first node 101 can determine the first information for the first session based on the indication information.

[0168] In some embodiments, the first information may be service-related. In this case, the function associated with the MC service indicated by the first information can be applied to all sessions of the MC service, and the first session associated with the first information can be all sessions of the MC service. In some embodiments, the first information may be session-related. In this case, the function associated with the MC service indicated by the first information can be applied to several sessions of the MC service, and the first session associated with the first information can be one or more sessions of the MC service.

[0169] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate one or more functions associated with the MC service (i.e., the first function). In one embodiment, the function indicated by the first information is related to a first session associated with the MC service. In some embodiments, the first session supports certain features and / or functions of the MC service association, then the first node 101 can determine the corresponding function of the MC service association for the first session.

[0170] In some embodiments, after receiving the indication information, the first node 101 determines for the first session a function for implementing the service characteristics associated with the MC service indicated by the indication information, i.e., a first function. In some embodiments, after receiving the indication information, the first node 101 determines one or more functions from the functions associated with the MC service indicated by the indication information for the first session, i.e., a first function.

[0171] In some embodiments, the first information may also be determined based on at least one of the following: predefined information associated with the MC service; network slice information associated with the MC service; and functional requirement information of the MC service.

[0172] In some embodiments, predefined information associated with MC services is used to indicate the service characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC services. In one example, the predefined information associated with MC services may include at least one of operator policies, OAM configuration, and local configuration.

[0173] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may determine, for the first session, a function of the service characteristics of the MC service association indicated by the predefined information for implementing the MC service association, i.e., a first function, and determine first information. In some embodiments, the first node 101 may determine one or more functions, i.e. first functions, from the functions of the MC service association indicated by the predefined information for the MC service association, and determine first information.

[0174] In some embodiments, network slice information associated with the MC service is used to indicate the network slice associated with the MC service. In one embodiment, the network slice information associated with the MC service is received by the first node 101 during the session establishment process or the session modification process of the MC service. In one example, network handover information may include single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI), S-NSSAI, and data network name (DNN). In some embodiments, the first node 101 can determine that the second node 102 needs to support the MC service based on the network slice information. Based on this, the first node 101 can determine the first information.

[0175] In some embodiments, the functional requirement information of the MC service is used to indicate the capabilities related to the MC service, and can also be understood as the functions related to the MC service that need to be supported, or as the functional requirements related to the MC service. In one embodiment, the functional requirement information of the MC service can indicate the functions associated with the MC service that need to be supported. Based on this, the first node 101 can determine the functions associated with the MC service that the second node 102 needs to support, and determine the first information.

[0176] In one embodiment, the functional requirement information of the MC may include, for example, the service ID of the MC service, the protocol description information of the MC service, and the service indication information, thereby indicating the supported MC service or the function of the supported MC service.

[0177] In some embodiments, when the first node 101 determines the first information based on at least one of the predefined information associated with the MC service, the network slice information associated with the MC service, and the functional requirement information of the MC service, step S201 can be omitted.

[0178] In step S203, the first node 101 sends third information to the fourth node 104.

[0179] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may send third information. In some embodiments, the third information may be sent by the first node 101, but is not limited to this, and may also be sent by other entities.

[0180] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 may receive third information. In some embodiments, the third information may be received by the fourth node 104, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0181] In some embodiments, the third information is used to request the fourth node 104 to provide an available second node. In one embodiment, an available second node can be understood as a second node that can be used for MC services. In one example, an available second node may include a second node authorized for use in MC services, a second node that supports the service characteristics and / or functions of MC services, and a second node that supports the first function associated with MC services. In one embodiment, an available second node may include one or more second nodes.

[0182] In some embodiments, the third information may include the first information to indicate the MC service associated function to the fourth node 104, so that the fourth node 104 can provide a second node that supports the first function, i.e., an available second node.

[0183] In some embodiments, the name of the third information is not limited, and it may be, for example, request information, discovery request information, etc.

[0184] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 may also provide the available second node to the first node 101 through a subscription. In this case, the first node 101 can subscribe to the second node 102 from the fourth node 104. For example, the first node 101 can send a subscription message to the fourth node 104 to subscribe to the information of the second node 102.

[0185] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can subscribe to the second node 102 from the fourth node 104 through the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusSubscribe service operation. For example, the subscription message may include an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusSubscribe message. In this way, the fourth node 104 can provide the first node 101 with information about the second node 102 that it is interested in, based on the subscription.

[0186] In some embodiments, third information may be carried in the subscription message. In some embodiments, the third information in the subscription message may be used to discover and select a second node 102 that supports the first function associated with the MC service.

[0187] In some embodiments, if the first node 101 can subscribe to the second node 102 from the fourth node 104, then the fourth node 104 can send the second information to the first node 101 on its own. In this case, step S203 can be omitted.

[0188] In step S204, the fourth node 104 sends the second information to the first node 101 based on the third information.

[0189] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 may send second information. In some embodiments, the second information may be sent by the fourth node 104, but is not limited thereto, and may also be sent by other entities.

[0190] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may receive the second information. In some embodiments, the second information may be received by the first node 101, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0191] In some embodiments, where the third information does not include the first information, the fourth node 104 can determine the available second node based on the characteristics and / or functions associated with the MC service and provide it to the first node 101 via the second information. In some embodiments, where the third information includes the first information, the fourth node 104 can determine the available second node based on the first function associated with the MC service indicated by the first information and provide it to the first node 101 via the second information.

[0192] In some embodiments, the second information may include identification information of the available second node 102. In one example, the identification information of the second node 102 may be the identifier of the second node 102.

[0193] In some embodiments, the second information may further include information related to the available second node 102. For example, the second information may include provisioning information for the available second node 102.

[0194] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 can also provide the first node 101 with information about the available second node via subscription. In this case, the fourth node 104 can send a notification message to the first node 101 in response to the subscription message. For example, the notification message may include an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusNotify message. Thus, the fourth node 104 can send second information to the first node 101, based on the subscription, regarding the availability of the second node 102.

[0195] In some embodiments, the second information may be carried in a notification message. In some embodiments, the notification message may be sent in response to a subscription message. In some embodiments, the notification message may be used to inform the first node 101 that a second node 102 is available.

[0196] In some embodiments, the second information may include identification information of the available second node 102. For example, the second information may include the identifier of the available second node 102.

[0197] In some embodiments, the second information may further include information related to the available second node 102. For example, the second information may include provisioning information for the available second node 102.

[0198] In some embodiments, the second information may indicate one or more second nodes 102. In some embodiments, the second information may indicate second nodes 102 registered to the fourth node 104 and conforming to all or part of the first information. It is understood that the second node 102 conforming to the first information is the second node 102 that the first node 101 is interested in, i.e., the usable second node 102.

[0199] In step S205, the first node 101 selects the second node 102 based on the first information.

[0200] In some embodiments, the first node 101 performs second node discovery, selection, or reselection based on the MC service associated function indicated by the first information. In one example, the first node 101 can be an MCF, and the second node 102 can be a UPF. Then, the MCF can perform UPF selection or reselection based on the first information.

[0201] In some embodiments, the first node 101 selects one or more second nodes 102 from the available second nodes 102 based on first information. In one embodiment, the selected second node 102 supports MC services. In another embodiment, the selected second node 102 supports the first function indicated by the first information.

[0202] In some embodiments, the selected second node 102 can be used to process service data of the first session. In one embodiment, the selected second node 102 supports the transmission of messages and data for the MC service based on the authorization of the MC service.

[0203] In some embodiments, when steps S201 to S205 are performed during a session modification process, it is indicated that the first node 101 selects or reselects the second node for the established first session. In this case, the indication information in step S201 may also trigger the establishment of a new MC session or change the second node 102 of the established MC session.

[0204] In some embodiments, when steps S201 to S205 are performed during the session establishment process, it is explained that the first node 101 selects a second node for the unestablished first session. In this case, after executing steps S201 to S205, a session association relationship can still be established between the first node 101 and the selected second node 102, as shown by executing steps S206 to S207. In one embodiment, the session association setting process can be initiated by the first node 101. During this process, the first node 101 and the selected second node 102 exchange the functions of their respective supported MC service associations.

[0205] In step S206, the first node 101 sends the fourth information to the selected second node 102.

[0206] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may send fourth information. In some embodiments, the fourth information may be sent by the first node 101, but is not limited thereto, and may also be sent by other entities.

[0207] In some embodiments, the selected second node 102 may receive fourth information. In some embodiments, the fourth information may be received by the selected second node 102, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0208] In some embodiments, the fourth information is used to indicate the functions associated with the MC service supported by the first node 101.

[0209] In some embodiments, the fourth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node 101 and the selected second node 102.

[0210] In step S207, the selected second node 102 sends the fifth message to the first node 101.

[0211] In some embodiments, the selected second node 102 may send a fifth message. In some embodiments, the fifth message may be sent by the selected second node 102, but is not limited thereto, and may also be sent by other entities.

[0212] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may receive the fifth information. In some embodiments, the fifth information may be received by the first node 101, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0213] In some embodiments, the fifth information is used to indicate the MC service associated functions supported by the selected second node 102.

[0214] In some embodiments, the above-described session relationship setup process can also be initiated by the selected second node 102. In this case, steps S206 and S207 exchange execution order, and the fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node 101 and the selected second node 102.

[0215] The communication method of this embodiment can be implemented through steps S201 to S207.

[0216] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S201 to S207. For example, step S201 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S203 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, a combination of steps S202, S204, and S205 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, a combination of steps S201, S202, S204, and S205 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, and a combination of steps S202, S203, S204, and S205 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment. The combination of steps S205 and S206 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, the combination of steps S202, S204, S205, S206 and S207 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, the combination of steps S201, S202, S204, S205, S206 and S207 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the combination of steps S201, S202, S203, S204, S205, S206 and S207 can be implemented as an independent embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0217] In some embodiments, steps S201 and S203 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0218] In some embodiments, steps S206 and S207 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0219] 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] In some embodiments, the terms “radio”, “wireless”, “radio access network (RAN)”, “access network (AN)”, and “RAN-based” can be used interchangeably.

[0222] In some embodiments, terms such as “moment,” “point in time,” “time,” and “time location” can be used interchangeably, as can terms such as “duration,” “segment,” “time window,” “window,” and “time.”

[0223] In some embodiments, “get,” “obtain,” “receive,” “transmit,” “bidirectional transmission,” and “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably and can be interpreted as receiving from other entities, obtaining from protocols, obtaining from higher layers, obtaining through self-processing, or autonomous implementation, among other meanings.

[0224] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0225] 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.

[0226] 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.

[0227] In some embodiments, the terms "service", "business", and "traffic" can be used interchangeably.

[0228] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication method involved in this embodiment can be applied to a communication system 100. As shown in Figure 3, the communication method of this embodiment includes steps S301 to S307.

[0229] In step S301, the first node 101 sends third information to the fourth node 104.

[0230] The optional implementation of step S301 can be found in the optional implementation of step S303 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0231] In some embodiments, the first node 101 may subscribe to the second node 102 from the fourth node 104. For example, the first node 101 may send a subscription message to the fourth node 104 to subscribe to the information of the second node 102.

[0232] In some embodiments, the first node 101 can subscribe to the second node 102 from the fourth node 104 through the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusSubscribe service operation. For example, the subscription message may include an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusSubscribe message. In this way, the fourth node 104 can provide the first node 101 with information about the second node 102 that it is interested in, based on the subscription.

[0233] In some embodiments, third information may be carried in the subscription message. In some embodiments, the third information in the subscription message may be used to discover and select a second node 102 that supports the first function associated with the MC service.

[0234] In step S302, the fourth node 104 sends the second information to the first node 101.

[0235] The optional implementation of step S302 can be found in the optional implementation of step S304 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0236] In some embodiments, the second information may be carried in a notification message. In some embodiments, the notification message may be sent in response to a subscription message. In some embodiments, the notification message may be used to inform the first node 101 of the second node 102.

[0237] In some embodiments, the second information may include the identification information of the second node 102. For example, the second information may include the identifier of the second node 102.

[0238] In some embodiments, the second information may further include information related to the second node 102. For example, the second information may include provisioning information for the second node 102.

[0239] In some embodiments, the second information may indicate one or more second nodes 102. In some embodiments, the second information may indicate second nodes 102 registered to the fourth node 104 and conforming to all or part of the first information. It is understood that the second node 102 conforming to the first information is the second node 102 that the first node 101 is interested in, i.e., the usable second node.

[0240] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 can notify the second node 102 to the first node 101 through the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusNotify service operation. In some embodiments, the notification message may include an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusNotify message.

[0241] In step S303, the second node 102 is deployed.

[0242] In some embodiments, a new second node 102 may be deployed in the network.

[0243] In some embodiments, the deployment of the second node 102 may include the deployment of an instance of the second node 102. In some embodiments, a new instance of the second node 102 may be deployed in the network.

[0244] In step S304, the second node 102 is configured.

[0245] In some embodiments, the second node 102 may be configured during or after its deployment.

[0246] In some embodiments, the second node 102 or an instance of the second node 102 may be configured with at least one of the following: identification information, configuration information.

[0247] In some embodiments, the second node 102 may use the configuration information in the registration process of step S305. It is understood that the use of the configuration information in registration does not require the second node 102 to understand the configuration information. In some embodiments, the second node 102 may not understand its own configuration information.

[0248] In some embodiments, the configuration of the second node 102 can be implemented by the fifth node sending a configuration message to the second node 102. In some embodiments, the configuration message can be used to determine the configuration information of the second node 102. In one example, the fifth node can be OAM.

[0249] In some embodiments, provisioning information can be used to determine the configuration of the second node 102. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the provisioning information can be included in the configuration of the second node 102.

[0250] In step S305, the second node 102 sends the sixth message to the fourth node 101.

[0251] In some embodiments, the second node 102 may send a sixth message. In some embodiments, the sixth message may be sent by the second node 102, but is not limited thereto, and may also be sent by other entities.

[0252] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 may receive the sixth information. In some embodiments, the sixth information may be received by the fourth node 104, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0253] In some embodiments, the sixth information may be used to provide the configuration of the second node 102 to the fourth node 104. In some embodiments, the sixth information may include the configuration of the newly deployed second node 102.

[0254] In some embodiments, the sixth information may include the configuration of the second node 102.

[0255] In some embodiments, the sixth piece of information may be carried in the registration request message. In some embodiments, the second node 102 may send a registration request message to the fourth node 104 to register the second node 102 with the fourth node 104.

[0256] In some embodiments, the registration request message may be an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFRegister request message.

[0257] In step S306, the fifth node 105 sends the sixth message to the fourth node 104.

[0258] In some embodiments, the fifth node 105 may send a sixth message. In some embodiments, the sixth message may be sent by the fifth node 105, but is not limited thereto; it may also be sent by other entities.

[0259] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 may receive the sixth information. In some embodiments, the sixth information may be received by the fourth node 104, but is not limited thereto, and may also be received by other entities.

[0260] In some embodiments, the sixth information may be used to provide configuration information of the second node 102 to the fourth node 104. In some embodiments, the sixth information may include configuration information of the newly deployed second node 102.

[0261] In some embodiments, steps 4105 and S306 may be performed selectively or both may be performed. Through steps S305 and / or S306, the new second node 102 can be registered to the fourth node 104, and the configuration of the second node 102 can be provided to the fourth node 104.

[0262] In step S307, the fourth node 104 sends the second information to the first node 101.

[0263] The optional implementation of step S307 can be found in the optional implementation of step S304 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0264] In some embodiments, the second information may be carried in a notification message. In some embodiments, the notification message may be sent in response to a subscription message. In some embodiments, the notification message may be used to inform the first node 101 of the second node 102.

[0265] In some embodiments, the second information may include the identification information of the second node 102. For example, the second information may include the identifier of the second node 102.

[0266] In some embodiments, the second information may further include information related to the second node 102. For example, the second information may include provisioning information for the second node 102.

[0267] In some embodiments, the second information may indicate one or more second nodes 102. In some embodiments, the second information may indicate all second nodes 102 registered to the fourth node 104 and conforming to the first information. In some embodiments, the second information may indicate second nodes 102 registered to the fourth node 104 after step S302 and conforming to the first information. It is understood that the second nodes 102 conforming to the first information are the second nodes 102 of interest to the second node 102.

[0268] In some embodiments, the fourth node 104 can notify the second node 102 to the first node 101 through the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusNotify service operation. In some embodiments, the notification message may include an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatusNotify message.

[0269] The communication method of this embodiment can be implemented through steps S301 to S307.

[0270] The communication method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S301 to S307. For example, step S301 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S302 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, step S307 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, a combination of steps S301 and S302 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, and a combination of steps S301 and S307 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0271] In some embodiments, steps S302, S303, S304, S305, S306, and S307 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. In some embodiments, steps S301, S303, S304, S305, S306, and S307 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. In some embodiments, steps S301, S302, S303, S304, S305, and S306 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0272] 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.

[0273] Figure 4 is an interactive schematic diagram of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication method involved in this embodiment can be applied to the communication system 100. As shown in Figure 4, the communication method of this embodiment includes steps S401 to S402.

[0274] In step S401, the fourth node 104 sends the second information to the first node 101.

[0275] The optional implementation of step S401 can be found in the optional implementation of step S304 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0276] In step S402, the first node 101 selects the second node 102 based on the first information.

[0277] The optional implementation of step S402 can be found in the optional implementation of step S305 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0278] 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.

[0279] In the following, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be described by way of specific implementation.

[0280] In some embodiments, this disclosure provides a method for selecting a suitable UPF (i.e., a second node) to support MC services, support the transmission of MC messages and data, and support the monitoring and statistics of MC service events and usage.

[0281] In some embodiments, this disclosure adds features for UPF selection and emphasis selection to support the requirements of large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services), such as supporting MC service sessions, supporting MC message and data transmission, and supporting event and usage monitoring and counting for MC services.

[0282] In some embodiments, when an MC (such as AIoT) PDU session is created, it carries an MC service (such as AIoT service) indication (such as indication information) (this indication can be carried directly or implicitly indicated through FQDN or DNN / S-NSSAI). This indication informs the MCF (such as AIoTF) that the session supports MC service (such as AIoT service) functionality. When performing UPF selection, the MCF (such as AIoTF) considers the MC service (such as AIoT service) requirements and selects a UPF that supports the MC service (such as AIoT service) capabilities.

[0283] In some embodiments, when the MCAF (such as AIoT AF) initiates an AIoT AF service session, it carries an MC service (such as AIoT service) instruction to the MCF (such as AIoTF), informing the MCF (such as AIoTF) of its need to support the MC service (such as AIoT service). The MCF (such as AIoTF) initiates an MC (such as AIoT) PDU session modification, reselecting to a UPF that supports the MC service (such as AIoT service) function.

[0284] In some embodiments, after selecting a UPF that supports MC services (such as AIoT services), the UPF supports the transmission of MC service (such as AIoT services) messages and data based on the authorization of the MC service (such as AIoT services), for example, supporting MC service sessions, supporting MC message and data transmission, and supporting MC service event and usage monitoring and counting.

[0285] In some embodiments, MCF (such as IoTF) and UPF: considering the functionality associated with large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services), the UPF is discovered / selected / reselected through the UPF selection function (such as AIoTF) in the MCF.

[0286] In some embodiments, the MCF considers the following parameters / information when selecting and reselecting the UPF: support for features related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services).

[0287] In some embodiments, the UPF selection function in the MCF (e.g., IoTF) can utilize the NRF to discover / select / reselect UPF / UPF instances. In this case, the MCF (e.g., IoTF) sends a request to the NRF to discover the UPF, and the functionality related to large-scale communication services (e.g., AIoT services) is provided in the UPF / UPF instance discovery / selection / reselection request.

[0288] In some embodiments, the MCF (such as AIoTF) provides functionality related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) for the selection and reselection of UPF / UPF instances, considering at least one of the following conditions:

[0289] MC services (such as AIoT services) support instructions from SMF or PCF (such as PCC rule instructions).

[0290] Instructions for support of large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) from MCAF;

[0291] Indications for support of large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) from legacy / service UPF;

[0292] OAM configuration / carrier policy / local configuration;

[0293] S-NSSAI / [S-NSASAI, DNN] related to / dedicated to MC services (such as AIoT services);

[0294] MC business capabilities (such as AIoT services), including service support instructions;

[0295] In some embodiments, MCAF: can provide a large-scale communication service (e.g., AIoT service) support indication to MCF (e.g., AIoTF) to indicate the large-scale communication service and for the discovery / selection / reselection of UPF / UPF instances.

[0296] In some embodiments, SMF / PCF: can provide MCF with indications of support for large-scale communication services (e.g., AIoT services) to indicate the policies and service requirements of large-scale communication services, and to be used for the discovery / selection / reselection of UPF / UPF instances.

[0297] In some embodiments, the AMF / UDM / OAM / legacy UPF can provide the MCF with indications of support for large-scale communication services (e.g., AIoT services) to indicate the functionality of the large-scale communication service (e.g., AIoT service). The functionality of the large-scale communication service (e.g., AIoT service) is used for the discovery / selection / reselection of UPF / UPF instances. In some embodiments, selection can be performed using the NRF to discover, select, and reselect the MCF, either based on the OAM configuration or the local configuration of the NEF. The MCF configuration is as described above.

[0298] Figure 5A is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of a communication method provided according to embodiments of the present disclosure. This implementation relates to a service consumer discovery process using NRF. As shown in Figure 5A, the communication method includes steps S5101 to S5107.

[0299] When MCF expects to receive notification that a UPF is available in the network, the following will happen:

[0300] In step S5101, the MCF issues an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatus subscription service operation, providing the target UPF configuration information it is interested in.

[0301] In some embodiments, the MCAF sends a request to the NRF to discover the UPF, and provides the NRF with a large-scale communication service (e.g., AIoT service) support indication to indicate the large-scale communication service and to be used for the discovery / selection / reselection of UPF / UPF instances.

[0302] In some embodiments, the MCF considers the following parameters / information when selecting and reselecting the UPF: support for features related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services).

[0303] In some embodiments, the MCF (such as AIoTF) provides functionality related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) for the selection and reselection of UPF / UPF instances, considering at least one of the following conditions:

[0304] MC services (such as AIoT services) support instructions from SMF or PCF (such as PCC rule instructions).

[0305] Instructions for support of large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) from MCAF;

[0306] Indications for support of large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) from legacy / service UPF;

[0307] OAM configuration / carrier policy / local configuration;

[0308] S-NSSAI / [S-NSASAI, DNN] related to / dedicated to MC services (such as AIoT services);

[0309] MC business capabilities (such as AIoT services), including service support instructions;

[0310] In step S5102, the NRF sends a list of all UPFs currently conforming to the MCF subscription to the Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatus Notify. This notification indicates a subset of the target UPF configuration information supported by each UPF.

[0311] In some embodiments, the UPF supports the following functions required by the MCF for UPF selection and reselection, and the NRF will issue these UPFs to the MCF: support for functions related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services).

[0312] In some embodiments, the following occurs when deploying a new UPF instance:

[0313] In step S5103, a new UPF instance is deployed at any time.

[0314] In step S5104, the UPF instance is configured with an NRF identifier to be contacted for registration and its UPF configuration information. Except for using this information for registration in step S5105, the UPF does not need to know the UPF configuration information.

[0315] In step S5105, the UPF instance issues an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFR registry request operation, providing its NF type, FQDN or IP address, and the UPF configuration information configured in step S5104.

[0316] In step S5106, as an alternative to steps S5104 and S5105, OAM registers the UPF on the NRF, indicating the same UPF configuration information provided in step S5105.

[0317] In step S5107, based on the subscription in step S5101, the NRF sends an Nnrf_NFManagement_NFStatus Notify to all MCFs whose subscriptions match the UPF configuration information of the new UPF.

[0318] In some embodiments, if the new UPF supports the following functions required by the MCF for UPF selection and reselection, the NRF will issue a new UPF to the MCF: support for functions related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services).

[0319] 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.

[0320] In some embodiments, the selection of the UPF for establishing an MC PDU session involves the following process:

[0321] The UPF selection process when creating a new PDU session when no PDU session exists. See Figure 5B for the session association setup process. Information on whether UPF and MCF exchange support relevant functionalities;

[0322] Select a UPF for a specific MC PDU session. See Figure 5C for the PDU session establishment process.

[0323] In some embodiments, the session association setup process is used to establish a session association between the MCF and the UPF so that the MCF can subsequently use the resources of the UPF to establish a session related to the MC service.

[0324] In some embodiments, the MCF and UPF may exchange the functionality supported on each side during these processes.

[0325] In some embodiments, the support for features related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services) will be exchanged during these processes. Furthermore, depending on the requirements of the MCF, the UPF may support features related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services), and the MCF may choose or reselect accordingly.

[0326] In some embodiments, the session association settings are initiated by the MCF.

[0327] Figure 5B is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This embodiment relates to a session association setup process between the MCF and the UPF. As shown in Figure 5B, the communication method includes steps S5201 to S5202.

[0328] In step S5201, the MCF initiates the session association setup process to request the establishment of a session association with the UPF before establishing the first session on the UPF.

[0329] In step S5202, when a session association setting request is received, the UPF sends a session association setting response.

[0330] In some embodiments, the session association settings are initiated by the UPF.

[0331] Figure 5C is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of the communication method provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This embodiment relates to a session association setup process between the MCF and the UPF. As shown in Figure 5C, the communication method includes steps S5301 to S5302.

[0332] In step S5301, the UPF may initiate a session association setup process before establishing the first session on the UPF to request the establishment of an association with the MCF.

[0333] In step S5302, when a session association setting request is received, the MCF should send an association setting response.

[0334] In some embodiments, the session establishment process is used to create an initial session context for the MC PDU session in the UPF. The MCF assigns a new MC session ID and provides it to the UPF. The session ID is stored by two entities and used to identify the session context during interactions. The MCF also stores the relationship between the session IDs of the MC service and the MC PDU sessions.

[0335] In some embodiments, FIG5D is an interactive schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of a communication method provided according to embodiments of the present disclosure. This implementation relates to a session establishment process. As shown in FIG5D, the communication method includes steps S5401 to S5404.

[0336] In step S5401, the MCF receives a trigger to establish a new MC PDU session or change the UPF of an established MC PDU session.

[0337] In some embodiments, the MCF considers the following parameters / information when selecting and reselecting the UPF: support for features related to large-scale communication services (such as AIoT services).

[0338] In step S5402, the MCF sends a session establishment request message to the UPF, which contains structured control information defining how the UPF should behave.

[0339] In step S5403, the UPF responds with a session establishment response message, which contains any information that the UPF must provide to the MCF in response to the received control information.

[0340] In step S5404, the MCF interacts with the network function that triggered this process (such as SMF, AMF, or PCF).

[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] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, this disclosure proposes an apparatus 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.

[0343] 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 a configuration file, 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.

[0344] In this disclosure, 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), microprocessor, graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a type of microprocessor), or 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 as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (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), tensor processing unit (TPU), deep learning processing unit (DPU), etc.

[0345] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 6, the communication device 600 may include at least one of the following: a transceiver module 601 and a processing module 602.

[0346] In some embodiments, the communication device 600 may be a first node 101. In some embodiments, the processing module 602 is configured to select a second node for a first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with the MC service, the first session being associated with the MC service, and the second node being used to process the service data of the first session. Optionally, the transceiver module 602 may be used to perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by the first node 101 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here. Optionally, the transceiver module 601 may be used to perform at least one of the other steps performed by the first node 101 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here.

[0347] In some embodiments, the communication device 600 may be a second node 102. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 601 may be configured to perform at least one of the following: receiving fourth information sent by the first node, the fourth information indicating a function associated with the MC service supported by the first node; sending fifth information to the first node, the fifth information indicating a function associated with the MC service supported by the second node; wherein the second node is selected by the first node for the first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with the MC service, the first session is associated with the MC service, and the second node is used to process the service data of the first session. Optionally, the transceiver module 601 may be used to perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by the second node 102 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here.

[0348] In some embodiments, the communication device 600 may be a fourth node 104. In some embodiments, the transceiver module 601 may be configured to send second information to a first node, the second information indicating an available second node, the available second node being used by the first node to select a second node for a first session based on the first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with the MC service, the first session being associated with the MC service, and the selected second node being used to process the service data of the first session. Optionally, the transceiver module 601 may be used to perform at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving performed by the fourth node 104 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here. Optionally, the processing module 602 may be used to perform at least one of the other steps performed by the fourth node 104 in any of the above methods, which will not be elaborated here.

[0349] In some embodiments, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and / or a receiving module. The transmitting and receiving modules may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the transceiver module may be interchangeable with a transceiver.

[0350] 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. Optionally, the processing module may be interchangeable with a processor.

[0351] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication device 7100 can be an MC device, a terminal (e.g., a user equipment), a network device (e.g., a core network device, an access network device), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the MC device in implementing any of the above methods, a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 7100 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.

[0352] As shown in Figure 7A, the communication device 7100 includes one or more processors 7101. The processor 7101 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can 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 7100 can be used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 7101 can be used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 7100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0353] In some embodiments, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more transceivers 7102. When the communication device 7100 includes one or more transceivers 7102, the transceiver 7102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method, and the processor 7101 performs at least one of the other steps. In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, sending unit, transmitter, sending circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0354] In some embodiments, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more memories 7103 for storing data. Optionally, all or part of the memories 7103 may be located outside the communication device 7100. In optional embodiments, the communication device 7100 may include one or more interface circuits 7104. Optionally, the interface circuits 7104 are connected to the memories 7103 and can be used to receive data from the memories 7103 or other devices, and to send data to the memories 7103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuits 7104 can read data stored in the memories 7103 and send the data to the processor 7101.

[0355] The communication device 7100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 7100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 7100 may not be limited by FIG. 7A. 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 and programs; (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.

[0356] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. For cases where the communication device 7100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of the chip 7200 shown in Figure 7B, but it is not limited thereto.

[0357] Chip 7200 includes one or more processors 7201. Chip 7200 is used to perform any of the above methods.

[0358] In some embodiments, chip 7200 further includes one or more interface circuits 7202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 7200 further includes one or more memories 7203 for storing data. Optionally, all or part of the memories 7203 may be located outside chip 7200. Optionally, interface circuit 7202 is connected to memory 7203, and interface circuit 7202 can be used to receive data from memory 7203 or other devices, and interface circuit 7202 can be used to send data to memory 7203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 7202 can read data stored in memory 7203 and send the data to processor 7201.

[0359] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 7202 performs at least one of the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, in the above-described method. For example, the interface circuit 7202 performing the communication steps, such as sending and / or receiving, in the above-described method means that the interface circuit 7202 performs data interaction between the processor 7201, the chip 7200, the memory 7203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 7201 performs at least one of the other steps.

[0360] 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.

[0361] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device 7100, cause the communication device 7100 to perform any of the methods described above. 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.

[0362] This disclosure also proposes a program product that, when executed by a communication device 7100, causes the communication device 7100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product.

[0363] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

[0364] Other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only.

[0365] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, executed by a first node, the method comprising: A second node is selected for a first session based on first information, the first information indicating a first function associated with a large-scale communication service, the first session being associated with the large-scale communication service, and the second node being used to process the service data of the first session.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first information is determined based on at least one of the following: Indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the large-scale communication service; The predefined information associated with the large-scale communication services; The network slice information associated with the large-scale communication services; The functional requirements information of the large-scale communication service.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The instruction information is also used to request the establishment of the first session or to request the modification of the second node for the first session that has already been established.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The selected second node is the second node that supports the first function.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein The method further includes: Receive second information sent by the fourth node, the second information indicating available second nodes, the selected second node being one or more of the available second nodes.

6. The method according to claim 5, wherein The method further includes: Send a third message to the fourth node, the third message being used to request the fourth node to provide the available second node; Receive the second information sent by the fourth node based on the third information.

7. The method according to claim 5 or 6, wherein The third information is also used to indicate the first function, and the available second node is determined by the fourth node based on the first function.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein After selecting a second node for the first session based on the first information, the method further includes at least one of the following: Send a fourth message to the selected second node, the fourth message indicating the functions associated with the large-scale communication service supported by the first node; Receive a fifth message sent by the selected second node, the fifth message indicating the functions associated with the large-scale communication service supported by the selected second node.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, The fourth or fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node and the selected second node.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The large-scale communication services include 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services based on sixth-generation mobile communication technology.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: 6G environment IoT services; Related services for IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; Related services for IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

12. A communication method, executed by a second node, the method comprising: Receive fourth information sent by the first node, the fourth information indicating the functions associated with large-scale communication services supported by the first node; And / or, Send a fifth message to the first node, the fifth message indicating the functions associated with the large-scale communication service supported by the second node; The second node is selected by the first node for the first session based on first information, the first information indicating the first function associated with the large-scale communication service, the first session being associated with the large-scale communication service, and the second node being used to process the service data of the first session.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein, The fourth or fifth information is also used to request the establishment of a session association between the first node and the second node.

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein The first information is determined based on at least one of the following: Indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the large-scale communication service; The predefined information associated with the large-scale communication services; The network slice information associated with the large-scale communication services; The functional requirements information of the large-scale communication service.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein The instruction information is also used to request the establishment of the first session or to request the modification of the second node for the first session that has already been established.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein The first node is the second node selected for the first session, and the second node is the second node that supports the first function.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, The selected second node is one or more of the available second nodes determined by the fourth node.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein The available second node has been registered on the fourth node.

19. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 18, wherein The large-scale communication services include 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services based on sixth-generation mobile communication technology.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein The 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: 6G environment IoT services; Related services for IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; Related services for IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

21. A communication method, executed by a fourth node, the method comprising: Send a second message to the first node, the second message indicating an available second node, the available second node being used by the first node to select a second node for the first session based on the first message, the first message indicating a first function associated with a large-scale communication service, the first session being associated with the large-scale communication service, and the selected second node being used to process the service data of the first session.

22. The method according to claim 21, wherein, The first information is determined based on at least one of the following: Indication information provided by a third node, the indication information indicating the service characteristics and / or second functions associated with the large-scale communication service; The predefined information associated with the large-scale communication services; The network slice information associated with the large-scale communication services; The functional requirements information of the large-scale communication service.

23. The method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein The selected second node is a second node that supports the first function.

24. The method according to claim 21 or 22, wherein The method further includes: Receive third information sent by the first node, the third information being used to request the fourth node to provide the available second node; Based on the third information, the second information is sent to the first node.

25. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 24, wherein The large-scale communication services include 6G Internet of Things (IoT) services based on sixth-generation mobile communication technology.

26. The method according to claim 25, wherein The 6G IoT services include at least one of the following: 6G environment IoT services; Related services for IoT terminals with strong 6G communication capabilities; Related services for IoT terminals with weak 6G communication capabilities; IoT services supported by 6G terminals.

27. A communication device, wherein, The communication device is used to perform the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, 12 to 20, and 21 to 26.

28. A communication system, including a first node, a second node, and a fourth node, wherein, The first node is configured to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, the second node is configured to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 12 to 20, and the fourth node is configured to implement the communication method as described in any one of claims 21 to 26.

29. A storage medium, the storage medium stores instructions, characterized in that, When the instructions are executed on the communication device, the communication device performs the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, 12 to 20, and 21 to 26.

30. 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 steps of the communication method as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, 12 to 20, and 21 to 26.

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