Information processing methods, communication device, communication system, and storage medium

Abstract

Provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure are information processing methods, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium. An information processing method, executed by a first network function, comprises: sending first information to a second network function, wherein the first information is used for acquiring second information, the second information is related to a first connection, the second information is used for determining third information of a third network function, and the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

Description

Information processing methods, communication equipment, communication systems and storage media Technical Field

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

[0002] In the field of communication technology, there is a growing demand for services that require data processing within communication systems. These services are supported at various levels, including terminals, core network equipment, and access network equipment. As more and more services requiring data processing are introduced into communication systems, it is necessary to consider the management of user-plane or data-plane services to better support their adoption. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The embodiments disclosed herein aim to address the problem that communication systems cannot support mobile termination based on user plane or data plane network services initiated by network functions providing services.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a first network function, comprising: sending first information to a second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a second network function, comprising: receiving first information sent by a first network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information in the second network function; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used by the first network function to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a fourth network function, comprising: receiving fourth information sent by a first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request third information; the third information is used to instruct the third network function; the third network function is connected to a terminal through a first connection; and sending fifth information to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a communication system, the communication system including: a first network function, a second network function, and a third network function; the method includes: the first network function sending first information to the second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used to determine third information of the third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0008] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a first network function is provided, comprising: a first transceiver module configured to send first information to a second network function, wherein the first information is used to acquire second information; the second information is related to a first connection and is used to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0009] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a second network function is provided, comprising: a second transceiver module configured to receive first information sent by a first network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information in the second network function; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used by the first network function to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a fourth network function is provided, comprising: a third transceiver module configured to receive fourth information sent by a first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request third information; the third information is used to indicate the third network function; the third network function is connected to a terminal via a first connection; and sending fifth information to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0011] According to an eighth aspect of the embodiments of this disclosure, a communication device is provided, which is used to perform an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect.

[0012] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, comprising: a first network function, a second network function, and a fourth network function; wherein the first network function is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second network function is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the second aspect, and the fourth network function is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the third aspect.

[0013] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided that stores instructions which, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect.

[0014] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a program product is provided, including at least one of a program and instructions, wherein when the program and instructions are executed by a communication device, the method described as in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect is implemented.

[0015] The embodiments disclosed herein can support mobile-terminated network services based on the user plane or data plane initiated by network functions providing services. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings required for the description of the embodiments are introduced below. The following drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 2A is an interactive schematic diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2B is an interactive schematic diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first network function according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second network function according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 5C is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fourth network function according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 6B 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 an information processing method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium.

[0028] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose an information processing method executed by a first network function, comprising: sending first information to a second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information; the second information is related to a first connection and is used to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0029] In the above embodiments, second information related to the first connection can be obtained through the first network function to determine whether the first connection has been established, thereby helping to determine whether to support mobile termination services based on the user plane or data plane initiated by the first network function.

[0030] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of a third network function; a first identifier, the first identifier being used to indicate the third network function.

[0031] In the above embodiments, the third information is the information of the anchor point, which is helpful in determining the anchor point of the first connection (i.e., the third network function), thereby facilitating the establishment of a connection between the first network function and the anchor point, so that the first network function can interact with the terminal through the anchor point.

[0032] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following: a connection indication, wherein the connection indication is used to indicate that a first connection has been established; a second identifier, wherein the second identifier is used to indicate a first type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; a third identifier, wherein the third identifier is used to indicate a second type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; third information; wherein the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information and a first identifier of the third network function; the first identifier is used for the third network function; record information, wherein the record information is used to indicate information related to the first connection; a fourth identifier, wherein the fourth identifier is used to indicate a specified data network.

[0033] In the above embodiments, the establishment of the first connection between the terminal and the anchor point can be determined by the second information, and / or the information of the anchor point (i.e., the third information) can be obtained, which is conducive to realizing the mobile termination based on the user plane or data plane of the first network function.

[0034] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method includes one of the following: determining third information based on third information included in the second information; obtaining the third information from a fourth network function.

[0035] In the above embodiments, anchor point information can be obtained in a variety of ways, thereby adapting to more application scenarios.

[0036] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, obtaining third information from a fourth network function includes: sending fourth information to the fourth network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; and receiving fifth information sent by the fourth network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0037] In the above embodiments, anchor point information can be obtained from the fourth network function when it is impossible to obtain anchor point information from the second network function, thereby increasing the possibility of obtaining anchor point information.

[0038] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth network function includes a first type of fourth network function or a second type of fourth network function. Obtaining third information from the fourth network function includes one of the following: obtaining third information from the first type of fourth network function; wherein the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function; or, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the first type of fourth network function obtains third information from the second type of fourth network function; obtaining third information from the second type of fourth network function, wherein the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function.

[0039] In the above embodiments, anchor point information can be obtained from different types of fourth network functions to adapt to more application scenarios.

[0040] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, before obtaining the third information from the second type of fourth network function, one of the following is further included: determining the second type of fourth network function based on the second information; obtaining the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function.

[0041] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, obtaining a second type of fourth network function from a first type of fourth network function includes: sending sixth information to the first type of fourth network function, wherein the sixth information is used to request seventh information; receiving the seventh information sent by the first type of fourth network function, wherein the seventh information includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; and determining the second type of fourth network function based on the seventh information.

[0042] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth information is request information and the fifth information is response information; or, the fourth information is subscription information and the fifth information is subscription response information or notification information.

[0043] In the above embodiments, anchor information can be obtained through a request mechanism or a subscription mechanism, adapting to more application scenarios.

[0044] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: establishing a second connection with a third network function based on third information, wherein the second connection is one of the following: a user plane (UP) connection, a control plane (CP) connection, and a data plane (DP) connection.

[0045] In the above embodiments, a second connection can be established to facilitate information exchange between the first network function and the terminal; and the addresses of the first network function in the core network do not need to be exposed to the terminal, thereby improving communication security.

[0046] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: obtaining eighth information, wherein the eighth information is used to indicate a fifth network function, the fifth network function being a network function to which the service is redirected by a third network function; and establishing a third connection with the fifth network function based on the eighth information, wherein the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection.

[0047] In the above embodiments, information about the redirected anchor point can be obtained after the anchor point is redirected, thereby establishing a connection between the first network function and the redirected anchor point, so that information such as the redirected service can interact with the terminal.

[0048] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes one of the following: releasing the second connection when there is no information for service that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function; and modifying the second connection when there is information for service that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function.

[0049] In the above embodiments, when there is no service information that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function, the second connection can be released, thereby saving communication resources and energy consumption of the first and third network functions. Alternatively, when there is service information that needs to be transmitted between the first and third network functions, the second connection can be modified so that unredirected service information can still continue to interact through the first network function, improving the success rate of service information interaction.

[0050] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: sending downlink information of a service to a third network function via a second connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is used by the third network function to send it to a terminal via a first connection; receiving uplink information of a service sent by the third network function via the second connection, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the third network function from the terminal via the first connection; sending downlink information of a service to a fifth network function via a third connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is used by the fifth network function to send it to the terminal via the first connection; and receiving uplink information of a service sent by the fifth network function via the third connection, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the fifth network function from the terminal via the first connection.

[0051] In the above embodiments, the service information between the terminal and the third network function can be forwarded through the second connection and the first connection, which eliminates the need to expose the address of the first network function to the terminal, thereby improving transmission security. Furthermore, the first information of the services exchanged between the terminal and the first network function in the core network via the third network function can support services with lower complexity and better scalability.

[0052] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes one of the following: a network service function; the second network function includes one of the following: a unified data management function, a unified data storage function, a policy control function, and a network exposure function; the third network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and any network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; the fourth network function includes one of the following: a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function; the first type of fourth network function is a network function for session management; the second type of fourth network function is a network function for connection management; the fifth network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and any network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; wherein, the fifth network function is a network function after service redirection.

[0053] Secondly, this disclosure provides an information processing method executed by a second network function, comprising: receiving first information sent by a first network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information in the second network function; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used by the first network function to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0054] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the third network function; a first identifier, the first identifier being used to indicate the third network function.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following: a connection indication, wherein the connection indication is used to indicate that a first connection has been established; a second identifier, wherein the second identifier is used to indicate a first type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; a third identifier, wherein the third identifier is used to indicate a second type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; third information, wherein the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the third network function and a first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate the third network function; record information, wherein the record information is used to indicate information related to the first connection; and a fourth identifier, wherein the fourth identifier is used to indicate a specified data network name.

[0056] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes one of the following: a network service function; the second network function includes one of the following: a unified data management function, a unified data storage function, a policy control function, and a network exposure function; the third network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and any network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; wherein, the third network function is the network function before service redirection; the fourth network function includes one of the following: a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function; the first type of fourth network function is a network function for session management; the second type of fourth network function is a network function for connection management; the fifth network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and any network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; wherein, the fifth network function is the network function before service redirection.

[0057] Thirdly, this disclosure provides an information processing method executed by a fourth network function, comprising: receiving fourth information sent by a first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request third information; the third information is used to instruct the third network function; the third network function is connected to a terminal through a first connection; and sending fifth information to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0058] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth information is request information and the fifth information is response information; or, the fourth information is subscription information and the fifth information is subscription response information or notification information.

[0059] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the third network function; a first identifier, the first identifier being used to indicate the third network function.

[0060] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the fourth network function is a first type of fourth network function, and the method further includes: receiving sixth information sent by the first network function, wherein the sixth information is used to obtain seventh information; sending the seventh information to the first network function, wherein the seventh information is used by the first network function to determine a second type of fourth network function; the seventh information includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; the third identifier is used to indicate the second type of fourth network function.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: obtaining third information from a second type of fourth network function.

[0062] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: when it is determined that the service is redirected from the third network function to the fifth network function, sending an eighth message to the first network function; wherein the eighth message is used to instruct the fifth network function, and the eighth message is used by the first network function to establish a third connection with the fifth network function; the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection.

[0063] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: establishing a second connection between a first network function and a third network function, wherein the second connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection; establishing a third connection between the first network function and a fifth network function, wherein the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection; and the fifth network function is a network function to which the service is redirected by the third network function.

[0064] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes one of the following: a network service function; the second network function includes one of the following: a unified data management function, a unified data storage function, a policy control function, and a network exposure function; the third network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and any network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; wherein, the third network function is the network function before service redirection; the fourth network function includes one of the following: a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function; the first type of fourth network function is a network function for session management; the second type of fourth network function is a network function for connection management; the fifth network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and any network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; wherein, the fifth network function is the network function before service redirection.

[0065] Fourthly, this disclosure provides an information processing method executed by a communication system, the communication system including: a first network function, a second network function, and a third network function; the method includes: the first network function sending first information to the second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used to determine third information of the third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0066] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure propose a first network function, including: a first transceiver module configured to send first information to a second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information; the second information is related to a first connection and is used to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0067] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a second network function, including: a second transceiver module configured to receive first information sent by a first network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information in the second network function; the second information is related to a first connection, and the second information is used by the first network function to determine third information of a third network function; the first connection is a connection between a terminal and the third network function.

[0068] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose a fourth network function, comprising: a third transceiver module configured to receive fourth information sent by a first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request third information; the third information is used to indicate the third network function; the third network function is connected to a terminal via a first connection; and a fifth information is sent to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0069] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device for performing an alternative implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect.

[0070] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system comprising: a first network function, a second network function, and a fourth network function; wherein the first network function is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second network function is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the second aspect, and the fourth network function is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the third aspect.

[0071] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect.

[0072] In one aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product including at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the method described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect.

[0073] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the information processing method as described in the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, or an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, and the third aspect.

[0074] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system including processing circuitry configured to perform the methods described according to the first, second, third, or alternative implementations of the first, second, and third aspects above.

[0075] It is understood that the aforementioned devices (e.g., the first network function, the second network function, the terminal, the third network function, the fourth network function, etc.), communication systems, storage media, program products, computer programs, chips, or chip systems are all used to execute the methods provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0076] This disclosure provides an information processing method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium. In some embodiments, the terms "information processing method" and "information processing apparatus" are interchangeable, as are "information processing system" and "communication system".

[0077] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments. In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be mutually utilized. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0078] 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.

[0079] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0080] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0081] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of A or B, at least one of A and B”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0082] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether there is a branch B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether there is a branch A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0083] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether a branch B exists); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether a branch A exists); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0084] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0085] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0086] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0087] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0088] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0089] In some embodiments, devices, etc., may be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Terms such as “device,” “equipment,” “circuit,” “network element,” “network function,” “network device,” “function,” “node,” “unit,” “section,” “system,” “network,” “chip,” “chip system,” “entity,” and “subject” are interchangeable.

[0090] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0096] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0097] 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.

[0098] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 may include: a terminal 101, an access network device 102, and a core network device 103.

[0099] In some embodiments, terminal 101 includes, for example, at least one of the following: mobile phone, wearable device, Internet of Things device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home, but is not limited thereto.

[0100] In some embodiments, the access network device 102 may be a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: an evolved Node B (eNB), a next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), a next-generation Node B (gNB), a node B (NB), a home node B (HNB), a home evolved node B (HeNB), a wireless backhaul device, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a base band unit (BBU), a mobile switching center, a base station in a 6G communication system, an open RAN, a cloud RAN, a base station in other communication systems, and an access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0101] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0102] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to a service-based RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between access network devices or between access network devices and core network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be service-based interfaces. The processes and information interactions between these interfaces can be implemented by software or programs that call one or more corresponding services.

[0103] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0104] In some embodiments, the core network device 103 may be a single device including a first network function 1031, a second network function 1032, a third network function 1033, a fourth network function 1034, or a fifth network function 1035, etc., or it may be multiple devices or a group of devices, each including all or part of the aforementioned first network function 1031, second network function 1032, third network function 1033, fourth network function 1034, fifth network function 1035, etc. Network functions may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of the following: Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G Core Network (5GCN), Next Generation Core (NGC), and 6G Core Network (6GCN).

[0105] In some embodiments, the first network function 1031 may include one of the following: network service functions (NSF), and network functions in the core network other than the second network function, the third network function, the fourth network function, and the fifth network function.

[0106] In some embodiments, the first network function 1031 is used to provide network services, support the execution or operation of network services, and / or provide network service management, etc., and the name is not limited thereto.

[0107] In some embodiments, the second network function 1032 may include one of the following: Unified Data Management (UDM), Unified Data Repository (UDR), Policy Control function (PCF), and Network Exposure Function (NEF), etc.

[0108] In some embodiments, the second network function 1032 is used for storing and / or managing network data, for policy control, and / or for network function opening, etc., and the name is not limited thereto.

[0109] In some embodiments, the third network function 1033 and the fifth network function 1035 may each include one of the following: User Plane Function (UPF), Network Service Data Processing Function (NSDPF), Network Service Data Proxying (NSDP), and any function that has a network service data processing function or a network service data proxying function.

[0110] In some embodiments, both the third network function 1033 and the fifth network function 1035 may include anchor points, etc. Optionally, the third network function 1033 is a source anchor point or an anchor point before redirection; the fifth network function 1035 is a target anchor point or an anchor point after redirection.

[0111] In some embodiments, the third network function 1033 and the fifth network function 1035 can both be used in the core network for user plane data processing, network service data processing and / or network service data proxy, etc., and the names are not limited thereto.

[0112] In some embodiments, the fourth network function 1034 may include one of the following: a Session Management Function (SMF), a Service Management Function (SMF), a Connection Management Function (CMF), and a Service and Connection Management Function, etc. Optionally, the fourth network function may establish a connection with at least one of the following: a first network function, a second network function, a third network function, and a fifth network function. The connection relationship between the first network function, the second network function, the third network function, the fourth network function, and the fifth network function is not limited to that shown in FIG1, and these network functions may be interconnected with each other without conflict.

[0113] In some embodiments, the fourth network function 1034 is used for managing sessions, managing services, and / or managing connections, etc., and its name is not limited thereto.

[0114] In some embodiments, the fourth network function 1034 may include a combination of one or more network functions to implement service and / or connection management functions; for example, the fourth network function may include: a first type of fourth network function, or a second type of fourth network function, or a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function, etc. Optionally, the first type of fourth network function is used to manage sessions, etc., for example, the first type of fourth network function may be SMF, etc. Optionally, the second type of fourth network function is used to manage services and / or connections, for example, the second type of fourth network function may be CMF, etc.

[0115] 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 provided 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 provided in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0116] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1 are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1, or may include other main bodies outside of FIG1. ​​The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. Each main body may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection can be in any way, it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection, it can be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0117] 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).

[0118] In some embodiments, the communication system supports an increasing number of application services that require data processing; for example, terminals, core networks, and access networks may support, but are not limited to, at least one of the following services:

[0119] Sensing services. Sensing is the use of radio frequency signals to acquire information about the environment and / or the characteristics of objects in the environment (e.g., shape, size, orientation, speed, position, distance, or relative motion between objects).

[0120] Integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) services. ISAC involves the simultaneous use of radio frequency (RF) signals for sensing and communication. This integration of sensing and communication can improve spectrum efficiency, reduce latency, and / or enhance the reliability of various applications. ISAC is particularly suitable for at least one of the following: mobile operators, UE vendors, automotive vendors, and users, as it can significantly enhance the overall user experience, improve network efficiency, and / or generate new business opportunities.

[0121] Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) services. The convergence of communication networks and AI technologies is leveraging AI / ML to achieve intelligence in the core network and air interface through closed-loop processes such as data collection, ML model training, analysis and inference, and consumer data analysis.

[0122] Ranging / Sidelink Positioning service. Ranging refers to determining at least one of the following via the PC5 interface: the distance between two or more UEs, the orientation of one UE (i.e., the target UE) relative to another UE (i.e., the reference UE), and / or relative positioning. Sidelink positioning uses PC5 to locate the UE.

[0123] For example, the reference UE is a UE that determines a reference plane and reference orientation in ranging and / or lateral walkway-based positioning. The target UE is a UE whose distance, orientation, and / or position are measured compared to the reference plane, reference orientation, and / or position of the reference UE in ranging and / or lateral walkway-based positioning.

[0124] For example, ranging / sidewalking link positioning may include the following steps: measuring the absolute position between two UEs, or between one UE and multiple UEs, or between one or more positioned UEs; calculating the result (e.g., at the location server UE, or at the LMF, or at both); and making the ranging / sidewalking link positioning result available to the UE or the server (or a third-party application server).

[0125] Enhanced Location Service (eLCS) / Location Services. UE positioning can be supported by RAT-related positioning methods, which rely on, for example, RAT measurements obtained by the target UE and / or measurements of RAT signals transmitted by the target UE obtained by the access network. UE positioning can also be supported by RAT-independent positioning methods, which may rely on non-RAT measurements and / or other information obtained by the UE.

[0126] For example, the entire procedure of eLCS / location includes: measuring the absolute position between the UE and the base station; calculating the result (e.g., on the UE or in the LMF); and making it available to the UE or a third-party server (or a third-party application server).

[0127] With the emergence of more and more application services requiring data processing within telecommunications systems, solutions supporting user plane or data plane-based network services are needed to provide lower complexity and better scalability for executing new services. This would allow for the transfer of terminal and network interaction processing, which is currently limited to the control plane, to the user plane or data plane, and / or any application service supporting data processing within the telecommunications system; the interaction of service signaling between the terminal and network, and / or the interaction of user data or payload data, to be implemented through the user plane or data plane. Data packets from the UE terminate at the anchor point, which packages the data sent from the core network to the UE. The anchor point's address information is sent to the UE; the UE does not see the NSF's address information. The anchor point processes and sends the data exchanged between the UE and the NSF. Currently, no solution supports user plane or data plane-based network services with network-triggered connection establishment and mobile termination.

[0128] In some embodiments, the UE can be a terminal, or the terminal can be a UE.

[0129] Figure 2A is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2A, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method used in a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0130] In this embodiment, the third network function and the fifth network function serve as anchor points for the terminal to connect to the network via the user plane or data plane. The connection between the terminal and the third network function (or the fifth network function) is an end-to-end user plane or data plane connection, meaning the connection terminates at both ends of the connection. Downlink information exchange between the terminal and core network equipment (e.g., the first network function) terminates at the third network function (or the fifth network function). For example, after receiving downlink information from the first network function, the third network function processes the downlink information and encapsulates and packages it according to the end-to-end transmission protocol between the terminal and the third network function before sending it to the terminal; thus, from the terminal's perspective, it is unaware of the address information of the first network function (i.e., the address information of the first network function in the core network is not exposed to the terminal). Similarly, uplink information transmission packets from the terminal also terminate at the third network function; for example, the third network function unpacks the end-to-end transmission packets between the terminal and the third network function; the third network function can then send the uplink information to the first network function based on the processing. The third network function (or fifth network function) and the first network function can exchange information (e.g., uplink and downlink information of services) through the user plane, data plane, or control plane. The data plane can be an enhancement of the user plane or a part of a network independent of the control and user planes. In this embodiment, the user plane or data plane can process user data for a specified service (e.g., a specified network service), or it can process specific signaling and / or control information. The terminal can connect to the network through the user plane or data plane to support one or more services, either individually or simultaneously.

[0131] In this embodiment of the disclosure, retrieval can also be acquisition, which may include: querying for information that already exists. Acquisition may also include: generating information that does not exist or acquiring information that does not exist. For example, the first network function retrieving third information may mean: the third information already exists, and the first network function queries to obtain the third information. For example, the first network function acquiring third information may mean: the third information already exists, and the first network function queries to obtain the third information; or, the third information does not exist, and the first network function generates third information or acquires third information from other network functions.

[0132] Step S2101: The first network function sends the first information to the second network function.

[0133] In some embodiments, the second network function receives the first information sent by the first network function.

[0134] In some embodiments, the first information is used to obtain the second information.

[0135] Optionally, the first information is used to obtain the second information stored in the second network function; or, the first information is used to obtain the second information, which is obtained by the second network function from other network functions (such as the third network function or the fourth network function).

[0136] Optionally, the first information is used to retrieve the second information. For example, the first information is used to retrieve the second information to determine whether the second information includes third information. For example, the first information is used to retrieve the second information to determine whether a first connection has been established or whether a third network function that can serve the requested service has been determined.

[0137] In some embodiments, the second information is related to the first connection. For example, the second information is either first connection information or UE connection information. The first connection information is information related to the first connection; the UE connection information is information related to the UE connection. The UE connection is the first connection; the UE connection is the connection between the terminal and a third network function (e.g., an anchor point).

[0138] Optionally, the second information is used to determine the third information of the third network function. For example, if the second information includes the third information, the third information can be determined directly based on the third information included in the second information. For example, if the second information does not include the third information, other network functions are searched based on the second information to obtain the third information, etc.

[0139] Optionally, the second information may include at least one of the following: connection indication, second identifier, third identifier, third information, record information, and fourth identifier.

[0140] For example, a connection indicator is used to indicate that a first connection has been established. Here, the connection identifier can be a display indicator.

[0141] For example, the second identifier is used to indicate the first type of fourth network function in the fourth network function.

[0142] For example, the third identifier is used to indicate the second type of fourth network function in the fourth network function.

[0143] For example, the recorded information is used to indicate information related to the first connection. For instance, the recorded information may record information related to the first connection, such as including, but not limited to, at least one of the following: an identifier indicating the first connection, a second identifier corresponding to the first connection and a second identifier, first address information of a third network function corresponding to the first connection and third address information of the terminal.

[0144] For example, the fourth identifier is used to indicate a specified data network. For instance, the specified data network can be a pre-defined data network or a dedicated data network. For example, the specified data network can be a Data Network Name (DNN) or Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI); the fourth identifier can be used to indicate the data network corresponding to the specified DNN or S-NSSAI. For example, the specified data network can be a dedicated data network that the first connection can connect to, or the data network where the third network function is located, etc.

[0145] For example, at least one of the second identifier, the third identifier, the recorded information, and the fourth identifier can be used to implicitly indicate that the first connection has been established or that the third information of the third network function has been determined.

[0146] Optionally, the second information may further include at least one of the following: a fifth identifier indicating the terminal and a service identifier indicating the service. For example, the service identifier may be a service identifier for a specific type of service or for one or more service identifiers. Of course, in some embodiments, the second information does not include a service identifier, thus adapting the second information to scenarios involving all services.

[0147] For example, the service can be any service in the previous embodiments, or the service can be at least one of the following, including but not limited to: sensing service, positioning service, ranging / SL positioning service, AI service, ML service, AI / ML service, ISAC service, and environmental IoT service, etc.

[0148] For example, a service can be at least one of the following: any service that can interact through the user plane or the data plane, any service that is transferred from control plane processing to user plane processing, and any service that is transferred from control plane processing to data plane processing.

[0149] For example, the service can be a terminal service, or the service can include terminal services or non-terminal services. Here, non-terminal services can refer to: services that are suitable for all terminals, services that are suitable for the telecommunications architecture, or services that are suitable for the communication system.

[0150] In some embodiments, the third information is information about a third network function.

[0151] Optionally, the third information may include at least one of the following: first address information of the third network function and a first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate the third network function. For example, the first network function may obtain both the first address information and the first identifier simultaneously; or, the first network function may obtain the first identifier first, and then obtain the first address information. Here, the first address information can be used to establish a second connection.

[0152] Optionally, the first address information, the third address information, and the second, fourth, and fifth address information mentioned below can all be any information used to represent an address; for example, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth address information can include, but are not limited to, one of the following: port address information, Internet Protocol (IP) address information, Media Access Control (MAC) address information, and Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN). For example, the port address information can be a port number. For example, the IP address information can include one of the following: Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) address information and Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) address information.

[0153] Optionally, the third network function may correspond to one or more first address information, or the first identifier may correspond to one or more first address information.

[0154] Optionally, the terminal may correspond to one or more third address information.

[0155] In some embodiments, the names of the first information, the second information, and the third information are not limited. For example, the first information may be anchor point information request information, the second information may be first connection information or UE connection information, and the third information may be anchor point information.

[0156] In some embodiments, the names of the first identifier, second identifier, third identifier, fourth identifier, fifth identifier, and the sixth and seventh identifiers mentioned below are not limited. For example, the first identifier can be an anchor identifier (ID), etc.; the second identifier can be a CMF ID, etc.; the third identifier can be a CMF ID, etc.; the fourth identifier can be a data network name or identifier, etc.; the fifth identifier can be a terminal identifier or UE ID, etc.; the sixth identifier can be an NSF ID, etc.; and the seventh identifier can be a target anchor identifier, etc.

[0157] In some embodiments, the connection indicator, the first identifier, the second identifier, the third identifier, the fourth identifier, the fifth identifier, the sixth identifier, the seventh identifier, and the service identifier can all be strings or numbers of one or more bits.

[0158] In some embodiments, the first connection may include one of the following: a user plane connection between the terminal and a third network function, and a data plane connection between the terminal and the third network function.

[0159] Optionally, the first connection, and the second and third connections mentioned below, can all be transmission channels; these transmission channels can refer to connection-oriented transmission channels or connectionless transmission channels. For example, the first, second, or third connection can all include connection-oriented transmission channels or connectionless transmission channels. For example, a transmission channel can be replaced by a transmission path; a connection-oriented transmission channel can refer to a connection-connected transmission channel; a connectionless transmission channel can refer to a non-connection-oriented transmission channel. The connection establishment process differs for different connection-oriented transmission protocols.

[0160] For example, when the first, second, or third connection is a connectionless transmission channel, its connection establishment requires obtaining the peer's address information and completing the configuration at both ends, without requiring explicit connection establishment operations. When the first, second, or third connection is a connection-oriented transmission channel, its connection establishment requires obtaining the peer's address information and performing connection establishment operations. This address information must be address information usable by the transport layer; if it is not transport layer address information, it can be mapped to transport layer address information.

[0161] In some embodiments, in complex network environments, such as when adding backup information acquisition paths or switching faulty nodes, the first network function can obtain third information based on established connections or paths or nodes that have not experienced faults, as long as the first network function can obtain third information from other network functions of the core network or allocate third information (such as first address information) itself.

[0162] In some alternative embodiments, the second network function sends second information to the first network function.

[0163] In some alternative embodiments, the first network function receives second information sent by the second network function.

[0164] In some alternative embodiments, the second network function sends a ninth message to the first network function. This ninth message indicates at least one of the following: whether a first connection has been established, and whether third information exists. The ninth message is returned based on the first message. Optionally, the ninth message can be one or more bits of indication information; this indication information indicates at least one of the following: whether the first connection has been established or not, and whether third information exists or not.

[0165] In some alternative embodiments, the first network function receives the ninth message sent by the second network function.

[0166] 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", "bit", and "data" can be used interchangeably.

[0167] In some embodiments, terms such as "certain", "preset", "specified", "default", "set", "indicated", "a certain", "any", and "first" can be used interchangeably. "Certain A", "preset A", "specified 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, specified A, a certain A, any A, or first A, but are not limited thereto.

[0168] Step S2102: The first network function determines the third information.

[0169] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the third information based on the second information.

[0170] Optionally, the first network function determines the third information based on the fact that the second information includes the third information. For example, if the first network function receives the second information and determines that the second information includes the third information, then it obtains the third information from the second information.

[0171] For example, the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function, and the second information includes the third information and the second identifier; the first network function determines the third information. Here, the second information may also include at least one of the following: connection indication, record information, and the fourth identifier.

[0172] For example, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the second information includes the third information, the second identifier, and the third identifier; the first network function determines the third information. Here, the second information may also include at least one of the following: connection indication, record information, and the fourth identifier.

[0173] In some embodiments, the first network function obtains third information from the fourth network function.

[0174] Optionally, the first network function obtains the third information from the fourth network function based on the second information, excluding the third information.

[0175] Optionally, the first network function sends fourth information to the fourth network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; the first network function receives fifth information sent by the fourth network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0176] Optionally, the fourth network function receives fourth information sent by the first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; the fourth network function sends fifth information to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0177] Optionally, the fourth information is the request information and the fifth information is the response information.

[0178] For example, the fourth information is a request message, such as a Get Anchor point info request message; the fifth information is a response message, such as a Get Anchor point info response message. Alternatively, the fourth information is subscription request information, such as a subscription request message; the fifth information is a subscription request response message.

[0179] For example, the first network function calls a service to obtain information about the anchor point. The fourth information can be the information from calling the service, and the fifth information can be the information returned by the service or the information obtained by executing the service. Here, the fourth information can be used to subscribe to the third information.

[0180] Optionally, the fifth piece of information is subscription information, subscription response information, or notification information.

[0181] For example, the fourth information is a subscription message, such as an anchor point info subscription message; the fifth information is a notification message, such as an anchor point info notification message. Alternatively, the fourth information can be subscription request information, and the fifth information can be subscription response information.

[0182] For example, the first network function calls a subscription service to subscribe to anchor information, the fourth information can be the information that calls the subscription service, and the fifth information can be the information returned based on the subscription service or the information obtained by executing the subscription service.

[0183] In some embodiments, the first network function obtains third information from a first type of fourth network function. Optionally, the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function; or, the third network function is managed by a second type of fourth network function, and the first type of fourth network function obtains the third information from the second type of fourth network function.

[0184] Optionally, the first network function sends fourth information to the first type of fourth network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; the first network function receives fifth information sent by the first type of fourth network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0185] Optionally, the first type of fourth network function receives fourth information sent by the first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; the first type of fourth network function sends fifth information to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0186] For example, the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function, and the first network function obtains third information from the first type of fourth network function. For instance, the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function, and the second information includes a second identifier; the first network function sends fourth information to the first type of fourth network function corresponding to the second identifier, and receives fifth information sent by the first type of fourth network function. Here, the second information may also include at least one of the following: connection indication, record information, and the fourth identifier.

[0187] In some embodiments, the first network function obtains third information from a second type of fourth network function. Optionally, the second type of fourth network function relates to the first type of fourth network function, or the second type of fourth network function does not relate to the first type of fourth network function.

[0188] Optionally, the first network function sends fourth information to the second type of fourth network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; the first network function receives fifth information sent by the second type of fourth network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0189] Optionally, the second type of fourth network function receives fourth information sent by the first network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; the second type of fourth network function sends fifth information to the first network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0190] For example, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the first network function obtains the third information from the second type of fourth network function. If the first type of fourth network function is involved in the interaction of the third information, the first type of fourth network function obtains the third information from the second type of fourth network function and sends it to the first network function. If the first type of fourth network function is not involved in the interaction of the third information, the first network function directly obtains the third information from the second type of fourth network function, or the first network function obtains the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function, and the first network function obtains the third information from the second type of fourth network function.

[0191] For example, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the second information includes a second identifier and a third identifier; the first network function sends the fourth information to the first type of fourth network function corresponding to the second identifier, and the first type of fourth network function sends the fourth information to the second type of fourth network function corresponding to the third identifier; the second type of fourth network function sends the fifth information to the first type of fourth network function, and the first type of fourth network function sends the fourth information to the first network function. The second information may also include at least one of the following: connection indication, record information, and the fourth identifier.

[0192] For example, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the second information includes a third identifier; the first network function sends fourth information to the second type of fourth network function; the second type of fourth network function sends fifth information to the first network function. Here, the second information may also include at least one of the following: a third identifier, a connection indication, record information, and a fourth identifier.

[0193] For example, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the second information includes a second identifier; the first network function obtains the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function corresponding to the second identifier; the first network function sends fourth information to the second type of fourth network function; and the second type of fourth network function sends fifth information to the first network function. Here, the second information may also include at least one of the following: a third identifier, a connection indication, record information, and a fourth identifier.

[0194] In some alternative embodiments, before the first network function obtains the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function, the method further includes: determining the second type of fourth network function.

[0195] In some embodiments, the first network function determines a second type of fourth network function based on the second information.

[0196] For example, the second information includes a third identifier, and the third network function is managed by a second type of fourth network function; the first network function determines the second type of fourth network function based on the third identifier included in the second information.

[0197] In some embodiments, the first network function obtains the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function.

[0198] Optionally, the first type of fourth network function obtains third information from the second type of fourth network function.

[0199] Optionally, the first network function sends a sixth message to the first type of fourth network function, wherein the sixth message is used to request a seventh message; the first network function receives the seventh message sent by the first type of fourth network function, wherein the seventh message includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; the first network function determines the second type of fourth network function based on the seventh message.

[0200] Optionally, the first type of fourth network function receives sixth information sent by the first network function, wherein the sixth information is used to request seventh information; the first type of fourth network function sends seventh information to the first type of fourth network function, wherein the seventh information is used by the first network function to determine the second type of fourth network function; the seventh information includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; the first network function determines the second type of fourth network function based on the seventh information.

[0201] For example, the second information includes a second identifier, and the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function; the first network function sends the sixth information to the first type of fourth network function, the sixth information may carry the second identifier, and the sixth information is used to obtain the seventh information; the first network function obtains the seventh information sent by the first type of fourth network function; the first network function determines the second type of fourth network function based on the third identifier in the seventh information, or determines the second type of fourth network function based on the second address information in the seventh information.

[0202] Optionally, the second type of fourth network function may correspond to one or more second address information; or, the third identifier may correspond to one or more second address information.

[0203] Optionally, regardless of whether the third network function is managed by a first-type fourth network function or a second-type fourth network function, the first address information of the third network function can be determined by the fourth network function or obtained by the fourth network function from the third network function, etc. Here, the first address information can be used to establish a second connection.

[0204] In some embodiments, the names of the fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh information are not limited; for example, the sixth information may be a request for CMF information, etc.; the seventh information may be CMF information, etc.

[0205] In some embodiments, the connection management of the first connection uses a first connection management mechanism, which is a PDU session reuse mechanism. Here, when the connection management of the first connection is the first management mechanism, a first type of fourth network function needs to participate in the management of the first connection or a third network function.

[0206] In some embodiments, the connection management of the first connection uses a second connection management mechanism, which is a connection management mechanism for the terminal accessing the network through the user plane or data plane. Here, the connection management of the first connection is the second management mechanism, which may not require the first type of fourth network function to participate in the management of the first connection or the third network function; or it may require the first type of fourth network function to participate in the management of the first connection or the third network function, in which case the first type of fourth network function is a network function used for connection.

[0207] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0208] Step S2103: The first network function, the third network function, or the fourth network function establishes a second connection.

[0209] Optionally, the second connection is one of the following: a user plane connection between the third network function and the first network function, a data plane connection between the third network function and the first network function, and a control plane connection between the third network function and the first network function.

[0210] In some embodiments, the first network function establishes a second connection.

[0211] Optionally, the first network function establishes a second connection based on third information.

[0212] In some embodiments, a third network function establishes a second connection.

[0213] Optionally, the third network function obtains the tenth information from the first network function through the fourth network function; based on the tenth information, a second connection is established.

[0214] Optionally, the first network function sends tenth information to the third network function through the fourth network function, and the tenth information is used by the third network function to establish a second connection. Of course, in other embodiments, the fourth network function may also obtain the tenth information from other network functions (e.g., the second network function); the third network function may also obtain the tenth information from other network functions (e.g., the second network function).

[0215] Optionally, the tenth information may include at least one of the following: fourth address information of the first network function and a sixth identifier; the sixth identifier is used to indicate the first network function. The tenth information may also include the protocol type used for data transmission in the second connection.

[0216] In some embodiments, the fourth network function establishes a second connection.

[0217] Optionally, the first network sends tenth information to the fourth network function, and the tenth information is used by the fourth network function to establish a second connection. Here, the fourth network function can establish a second network function based on the tenth information and the second information.

[0218] Step S2104: The first network function, the fifth network function, or the fourth network function establishes a third connection.

[0219] Optionally, the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection between the fifth network function and the first network function, a data plane connection between the fifth network function and the first network function, and a control plane connection between the fifth network function and the first network function.

[0220] In some embodiments, the first network function establishes a third connection.

[0221] Optionally, the first network function acquires the eighth information, wherein the eighth information is used to indicate the fifth network function, which is the network function to which the service is redirected by the third network function; based on the eighth information, a third connection is established with the fifth network function. Here, the first network function may receive the eighth information sent by the fourth network function, or it may also receive the eighth information sent by other network functions (such as the second network function).

[0222] Optionally, when the fourth network function determines that the service has been redirected from the third network function to the fifth network function, it sends an eighth message to the first network function; wherein the eighth message is used to instruct the fifth network function and to enable the first network function to establish a third connection with the fifth network function.

[0223] Optionally, the eighth information includes at least one of the following: the fifth address information of the fifth network function and the seventh identifier; the seventh identifier is used to indicate the fifth network function.

[0224] Optionally, the eighth information may be returned based on the fourth information. For example, the eighth information may be returned based on the request information, or the eighth information may be returned based on the subscription information.

[0225] In some embodiments, the fifth network function establishes a third connection.

[0226] Optionally, the fifth network function acquires the tenth information; based on the tenth information, a third connection is established. For example, the fifth network function receives the tenth information sent by the fourth network function or other network functions (such as the third network function).

[0227] In some embodiments, a fourth network function establishes a third connection.

[0228] Optionally, the fourth network function establishes a third connection based on the eighth and tenth information.

[0229] Step S2105: The first network function, the third network function, or the fourth network function releases or modifies the second connection.

[0230] In some embodiments, the first network function releases the second connection.

[0231] Optionally, the first network function releases the second connection if it determines that there is no information that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function.

[0232] For example, a telecommunications system or communication system may be adapted to services 1 to 5, none of which require interaction with the third network function through the first network function, or all of which are redirected to the fifth network function; then the release of the second connection is determined.

[0233] For example, a first network function sends a first message to a third network function, wherein the first message is used by the third network function to release the second connection. Here, after receiving the first message, the third network function releases the second connection.

[0234] For example, the first network function sends a second message to the fourth network function, wherein the second message is used by the fourth network function to release the second connection. Here, after receiving the second message, the fourth network function releases the second connection.

[0235] For example, the first network function receives a third message sent by the third network function; based on the third message, it releases the second connection. Here, the third message is used to release the second connection.

[0236] For example, the first network function receives a fourth message sent by the fourth network function; based on the fourth message, it releases the second connection. Here, the third message is used to release the second connection.

[0237] For example, the first network function deletes the first address information of the third network function, where the first address information is used to establish the second connection. Here, the second connection can also be released by deleting the first address information of the third network function from the first network function.

[0238] For example, the first network function deletes information related to the second connection, such as the address information at both ends of the connection, security parameters, and connection identifier. Here, deleting the information related to the second connection from the first network function can also release the second connection.

[0239] Optionally, the names of the first message, the second message, the third message, and the fourth message mentioned below are not limited; for example, the first message, the second message, the third message, and the fourth message can all be connection release messages.

[0240] In some embodiments, the third network function releases the second connection.

[0241] Optionally, the third network function releases the second connection if it determines that there is no information that needs to be transmitted between the first and third network functions.

[0242] Optionally, the third network function releases the second connection upon receiving a first message from the first network function; or the third network function sends a third message to the first network function, causing the first network function to release the second connection.

[0243] For example, the third network function deletes the fourth address information of the first network function, which is used to establish the second connection. Here, the second connection can also be released by deleting the fourth address information of the first network function from the third network function.

[0244] For example, the third network function deletes information related to the second connection, such as the address information at both ends of the connection, security parameters, and / or connection identifiers. Here, the second connection can also be released by deleting its related information from the third network function.

[0245] In some embodiments, the fourth network function releases the third connection.

[0246] Optionally, the fourth network function releases the second connection if it determines that there is no information that needs to be transmitted between the first and third network functions.

[0247] Optionally, the fourth network function releases the second connection upon receiving a second message from the first network function; or the fourth network function sends a fourth message to the first network function, causing the first network function to release the second connection.

[0248] For example, the fourth network function deletes information related to the second connection, such as the address information of both ends of the connection, security parameters, and / or connection identifiers. Here, the second connection can also be released by deleting its related information from the fourth network function.

[0249] In some embodiments, the first network function modifies the second connection.

[0250] Optionally, if the first network function determines that information for a service needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function, it may modify the second connection.

[0251] For example, a telecommunications system or communication system may be adapted to services 1 to 5, or a third network function may support services 1 to 5; wherein services 1 to 3 are redirected to other network functions (e.g., the fifth network function); services 4 and 5 are not redirected to other network functions and still require execution by the third network function; then the second connection between the first network function and the third network function is modified so that the first information of services 4 and 5 is still transmitted through the third network function.

[0252] For example, the first network function can remove the relationship between the second connection and the relevant information of the service that the second connection is redirected (i.e., the eighth information), and the second connection, thereby modifying the second connection.

[0253] In some embodiments, the third network function modifies the second connection.

[0254] Optionally, the third network function releases the second connection if it determines that there is no information that needs to be transmitted between the first and third network functions.

[0255] In some embodiments, the fourth network function modifies the second connection.

[0256] Optionally, the fourth network function releases the second connection if it determines that there is no information that needs to be transmitted between the first and third network functions.

[0257] In some alternative embodiments, the fifth network function, the terminal, or the fourth network function establishes a fourth connection. Optionally, the fourth connection is one of the following: a user plane connection between the terminal and the fifth network function, or a data plane connection between the terminal and the fifth network function.

[0258] In some alternative embodiments, a fifth network function, a third network function, or a fourth network function establishes a fifth connection. Optionally, the fifth connection is one of the following: a user plane connection between the third network function and the fifth network function, a data plane connection between the third network function and the fifth network function, and a control plane connection between the third network function and the fifth network function.

[0259] Optionally, the connection between the terminal and the fifth network function can be in the following form: terminal – fifth network function, or terminal – third network function – fifth network function. The terminal can establish a connection with the fifth network function, and is not limited to any particular method.

[0260] Step S2106: The first network function exchanges service information with the third or fifth network function.

[0261] Optionally, the information of the service may include at least one of the following: upstream information of the service and downstream information of the service.

[0262] Optionally, the uplink information of the service may include at least one of the following: uplink signaling of the service and uplink data of the service; the downlink information of the service may include at least one of the following: downlink signaling of the service and downlink data of the service.

[0263] In some embodiments, a first network function sends downlink information of a service to a third network function through a second connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is used by the third network function to send it to a terminal through the first connection.

[0264] In some embodiments, the first network function receives uplink information of a service sent by the third network function through the second connection, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the third network function from the terminal through the first connection.

[0265] In the above embodiments, the first network function can interact with the third network function through the second connection and can be executed before the second connection is released.

[0266] In some embodiments, the first network function sends downlink information of a service to the fifth network function through a third connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is used by the fifth network function to send it to the terminal through the first connection.

[0267] In some embodiments, the first network function receives uplink information of a service sent by the fifth network function through a third connection, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the fifth network function from the terminal through the first connection.

[0268] In the above embodiments, the interaction between the first network and the fifth network function via the third connection can be executed after the second connection is released or after the second connection is modified. If the second connection is modified, the information of the redirected service (including the uplink and / or downlink information of the service) is exchanged between the first network function and the fifth network function via the third connection, and / or the information of the unredirected service is exchanged between the first network function and the third network function via the second connection.

[0269] For example, the third network function sends first information downlink information to the first network function through the second or third connection; the first network function sends the first information downlink information to the terminal through the first connection. Optionally, after receiving the first information downlink information, the first network function further processes the first information downlink information (e.g., packetization) and sends the processed first information downlink information to the terminal.

[0270] For example, the terminal sends uplink information from the first information to the first network function via the first connection; the first network function sends the uplink information from the first information to the third network function via the second connection or the third connection. Optionally, after receiving the uplink information from the first information, the first network function further processes the uplink information from the first information (e.g., desealing and resealing), and sends the processed uplink information from the first information to the third network function.

[0271] The information processing method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2106. For example, step S2101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S2101 and S2102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S2102 and S2103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S2101, S2102, and S2103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S2103 and S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. The following can be implemented as independent embodiments: the combination of steps S2103, S2104, and S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2103 and S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2104 and S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2103, S2104, S2105, and S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102, S2103, S2104, S2105, and S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 to S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0272] In some embodiments, steps S2104 and S2105 may be performed in an alternate order or simultaneously.

[0273] In some embodiments, steps S2103, S2104, S2015 and S2106 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0274] In some embodiments, steps S2104 and S2105 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0275] 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.

[0276] Figure 2B is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2B, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method used in a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0277] Step S2201: The first network function sends the first information to the second network function.

[0278] The optional implementations of step S2201 can be found in the optional implementations of step S2101 in Figure 2A, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0279] In step S2202, the first network function obtains the third information from the second network function.

[0280] Optionally, the first network function receives second information sent by the second network function, the second information including third information; the first network function determines the third information based on the third information included in the second information.

[0281] The optional implementations of step S2202 can be found in the optional implementations of step S2102 in Figure 2A, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0282] 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.

[0283] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method for a communication system 100, the method including one of the following steps:

[0284] Step S3101: The first network function sends first information to the second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain the second information.

[0285] Optionally, the second information is related to the first connection, and the second information is used to determine the third information of the third network function; the first connection is the connection between the terminal and the third network function.

[0286] The optional implementations of step S3101 can be found in the optional implementations of step S2101 in Figure 2A, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0287] In some embodiments, the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the third network function; and a first identifier for indicating the third network function.

[0288] In some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following: a connection indication, wherein the connection indication is used to indicate that a first connection has been established; a second identifier, wherein the second identifier is used to indicate a first type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; a third identifier, wherein the third identifier is used to indicate a second type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; third information; wherein the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information and a first identifier of the third network function; the first identifier is used for the third network function; record information, wherein the record information is used to indicate information related to the first connection; and a fourth identifier, wherein the fourth identifier is used to indicate a specified data network.

[0289] In some embodiments, the method includes: a first network function determining third information based on third information included in second information.

[0290] In some embodiments, the method includes: a first network function obtaining third information from a fourth network function.

[0291] In some embodiments, the first network function obtains third information from the fourth network function, including: the first network function sending fourth information to the fourth network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; and receiving fifth information sent by the fourth network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

[0292] In some embodiments, the fourth network function includes a first type of fourth network function or a second type of fourth network function. The first network function obtains third information from the fourth network function, including one of the following: the first network function obtains third information from the first type of fourth network function; wherein the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function; or, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the first type of fourth network function obtains third information from the second type of fourth network function; or the first network function obtains third information from the second type of fourth network function, wherein the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function.

[0293] In some embodiments, before the first network function obtains the third information from the second type of fourth network function, it further includes one of the following: the first network function determines the second type of fourth network function based on the second information; the first network function obtains the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function.

[0294] In some embodiments, the first network function obtains the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function, including: the first network function sending sixth information to the first type of fourth network function, wherein the sixth information is used to request seventh information; the first network function receiving the seventh information sent by the first type of fourth network function, wherein the seventh information includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; and determining the second type of fourth network function based on the seventh information.

[0295] In some embodiments, the fourth information is request information and the fifth information is response information; or, the fourth information is subscription information and the fifth information is subscription response information or notification information.

[0296] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a first network function establishing a second connection with a third network function based on third information, wherein the second connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection.

[0297] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a first network function acquiring eighth information, wherein the eighth information is used to indicate a fifth network function, the fifth network function being a network function to which the service is redirected by a third network function; and establishing a third connection with the fifth network function based on the eighth information, wherein the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection.

[0298] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes one of the following: the first network function releases the second connection when there is no information for service that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function; the first network function modifies the second connection when there is information for service that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function.

[0299] In some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: a first network function sends downlink information of a service to a third network function via a second connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is used by the third network function to send it to a terminal via the first connection; the first network function receives uplink information of a service sent by the third network function via the second connection, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the third network function from the terminal via the first connection; the first network function sends downlink information of a service to a fifth network function via a third connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is used by the fifth network function to send it to the terminal via the first connection; and the first network function receives uplink information of a service sent by the fifth network function via the third connection, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the fifth network function from the terminal via the first connection.

[0300] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a first type of fourth network function obtaining third information from a second type of fourth network function.

[0301] In some embodiments, the method further includes: when a fourth network function determines that a service has been redirected from a third network function to a fifth network function, sending an eighth message to a first network function; wherein the eighth message is used to instruct the fifth network function and to enable the first network function to establish a third connection with the fifth network function; the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection.

[0302] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a fourth network function establishing a second connection between a first network function and a third network function, wherein the second connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection; the fourth network function establishing a third connection between a first network function and a fifth network function, wherein the third connection is one of the following: a user plane connection, a control plane connection, and a data plane connection; and the fifth network function being a network function to which the service is redirected by the third network function.

[0303] 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.

[0304] This disclosure relates to an information processing method that can support network services initiated by the NSF based on the UE user plane or data plane. A connection has been established between the UE and the anchor point.

[0305] This disclosure relates to a method for mobile termination of network services based on the user plane or data plane initiated by the NSF, which may include at least one of the following:

[0306] The NSF obtains NF information, which is used to manage UE connections based on user plane or data plane network services;

[0307] NSF obtains anchor point information from SMF / CMF / UDM;

[0308] NSF initiates the establishment of a connection between NSF and the anchor point.

[0309] In some embodiments, SMF / CMF refers to either SMF or CMF; SMF / CMF / UDM refers to either SMF, CMF, or UDM. NF information can be the second information in the previous embodiments; anchor point information can be the third information in the previous embodiments.

[0310] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which includes:

[0311] In this embodiment of the disclosure, it is assumed that network services based on the user plane or data plane are supported. A CMF (Network Function for Connection Management) or SMF (Network Function for Session Management) is a core network instance used for at least one of the following: managing the connection between the UE and the anchor point, and managing the connection between the anchor point and the NSF (Network Function for Providing Network Service Functions). Signaling and / or data packets from the UE are terminated at the anchor point, and the anchor point packages the data sent from the core network to the UE. The core network instance used to manage the connection between the UE and the anchor point, and the core network instance used to manage the connection between the anchor point and the NSF, may be the same or different. The establishment of the connection between the NSF and the anchor point is initiated by the NSF.

[0312] The address information of the NSF is not visible to the UE; instead, the anchor point transmits the signaling and / or data exchanged between the UE and the NSF. There can be one or more NSFs to support one or more network services. Each NSF can support one or more network services. The anchor point can be an independent NSDPF or UPF, or it can be a network service data proxy used for exchanging signaling and / or data between the UE and any NSF.

[0313] In step S4101, the user plane or data plane connection between the UE and the anchor point has been established.

[0314] Optionally, a user plane or data plane connection has been established between the UE and the anchor point. Information for UE connection management is stored in the UDM / UDR / PCF or in the UE context of any NF used for UE data management; this information may include at least one of the following: an indication that a UE connection has been established, an SMF ID, a CMF ID, and anchor point information. The anchor point's address information may include address information that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point, including but not limited to one of the following: port address information, Internet Protocol (IP) address information, and Media Access Control (MAC) address information. For example, the port address information may be a port number. It may also include the protocol type used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point for data transmission. The anchor point's information may include at least one of the following: the anchor point's ID and the anchor point's address information. UDM / UDR / PCF refers to UDM, UDR, or PCF.

[0315] In step S4102, the consumer sends a Network Service Request to the NSF.

[0316] Optionally, the consumer can be a data service task consumer; for example, the consumer may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: application server, UE, access network equipment (e.g., RAN node), and core network equipment (e.g., NF). The consumer triggers network services on the NSF to invoke specific network services or any network service.

[0317] In step S4103, the NSF obtains user plane or data plane connection information between the UE and the anchor point.

[0318] Optionally, the NSF obtains UE connections (e.g., user plane or data plane connections between the UE and the anchor point) from an NF (e.g., a UDM / UDR / PCF) that stores information used for UE connection management. For example, if the UDM / UDR / PCF stores information used for UE connection management, the NSF uses the UDM / UDR / PCF to obtain the UE connection, such as by calling a service (e.g., Nudm_UECM_Get service) and discovering that the UE connection to the core network has been established. The NSF can also obtain UE connection information from an NF that stores information used for UE connection management through the NEF.

[0319] If the PDU session mechanism is applied to connection management, it may include one of the following scenarios:

[0320] Case 1: The anchor point is managed by the SMF, and the UDM / UDR / PCF stores: SMF ID, or an indication of UE connection establishment and SMF ID; the NSF performs steps S4104 and S4105 to obtain information about the anchor point that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point.

[0321] Scenario 2: The anchor point is managed by the CMF, and the UDM / UDR / PCF stores: SMF ID, or, an indication of UE connection establishment and SMF ID; the NSF performs steps S4104 and S4105 to obtain CMF information (e.g., the NSF obtains CMF information from the SMF, and then obtains anchor point information from the obtained CMF).

[0322] Case 3: The anchor point is managed by the SMF, and the UDM / UDR / PCF stores: the SMF ID and anchor point information, or an indication of UE connection establishment and the SMF ID and anchor point information; the NSF obtains the anchor point information that can be used to establish the connection between the NSF and the anchor point in step S4103, and can skip steps S4104 and S4105.

[0323] Case 4: The anchor point is managed by the CMF, and the UDM / UDR / PCF stores: SMF ID and CMF ID, or, an indication of UE connection establishment and SMF ID and CMF ID; the NSF performs steps S4104 and S4105 to obtain CMF information (e.g., the NSF obtains CMF information from the SMF, and then obtains information about the anchor point that can be used to establish the connection between the NSF and the anchor point from the obtained CMF).

[0324] Case 5: The anchor point is managed by the CMF, and the UDM / UDR / PCF stores: SMF ID and CMF ID and anchor point information that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point, or, an indication of UE connection establishment and SMF ID and SMF ID and anchor point information that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point; the NSF obtains the anchor point information in step S4103 and can skip steps S4104 and S4105.

[0325] If the connection management mechanism for network services accessed by the UE via the user plane or data plane is applied to connection management, the anchor point can be managed by CMF or SMF, and may include one of the following:

[0326] Case 6: If at least one of the following is stored in the UDM / UDR / PCF: an indication of UE connection establishment, CMF ID, and SMF ID, the NSF executes steps S4104 and S4105 to obtain anchor point information. Here, the UDM / UDR / PCF may also store record information recording UE connections.

[0327] Case 7: If at least one of the following is stored in the UDM / UDR / PCF: an indication of UE connection establishment, CMF ID, SMF ID, and anchor point information, and the NSF obtains the anchor point information in step S4103, steps S4104 and S4105 can be skipped. Here, the UDM / UDR / PCF may also store record information recording UE connections.

[0328] In all the above cases, the indication indicating UE connection establishment can be implicitly indicated by the dedicated DNNS / S-NSSAI or explicitly indicated via indication information. The UDM / UDR / PCF storing at least one of the CMF ID, SMF ID, anchor point information, and UE connection information can implicitly indicate that the UE connection has been established; when at least one of the CMF ID, SMF ID, anchor point information, and recorded information is available, the indication indicating UE connection establishment can be omitted.

[0329] In steps S4104 and S4105, the NSF obtains anchor point information from the SMF or CMF that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point. Step S4104 includes step S4104a or step S4104b; step S4105 includes step S4105a or step S4105b. Step S4105 may also include step S4105c.

[0330] In step S4104a, the NSF sends a request to the CMF / SMF to obtain anchor point information that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point.

[0331] In step S4105a, the CMF / SMF sends a response to the NSF to obtain anchor point information that can be used to establish a connection between the NSF and the anchor point.

[0332] Optionally, the NSF obtains anchor information from the SMF / SMF by requesting it. For a Service-Based Interface (SBI) architecture, this can be achieved by calling an anchor information retrieval service (e.g., Nsmf_UECM_Get service), or by calling and executing that service. The anchor information used to establish the connection between the NSF and the anchor can be determined by the CMF / SMF, or it can be determined by the anchor and then returned to the CMF / SMF.

[0333] In step S4104b, the NSF sends an anchor information subscription request to the CMF / SMF.

[0334] In step S4105b, the CMF / SMF sends an anchor point information notification to the NSF.

[0335] Optionally, the NSF obtains anchor information from the SMF / CMF through a subscription mechanism. For the SBI architecture, this can be achieved by calling the anchor information subscription service (Nsmf_UECM_Subscribe), for example, by calling and executing the anchor information subscription service; and the SMF / CMF notifies the NSF of the anchor information, for example, by calling and executing the anchor information notification service (Nsmf_UECM_Notify) in step S4105b. The anchor information that can be used to establish the connection between the NSF and the anchor can be determined by the CMF / SMF, or it can be determined by the anchor and then returned to the CMF / SMF.

[0336] Optionally, in step S4104a, the information of the anchor point is implicitly subscribed, and when the anchor point is redirected, the information of the new anchor point is notified to the NSF.

[0337] Optionally, step S4106 may include step S4106a and / or step S4106b.

[0338] Step S4106a: NSF establishes a connection between NSF and the anchor point.

[0339] Alternatively, the connection between the NSF and the anchor can be one of the following: user connection, data plane connection, or control plane connection.

[0340] Alternatively, the connection between the NSF and the anchor point can also be established by the anchor point or the SMF / CMF.

[0341] Optionally, the connection between the NSF and the anchor point can be a transmission channel between the NSF and the anchor point; this transmission channel can refer to a connection-oriented transmission channel or a connectionless transmission path. For example, the connection between the NSF and the anchor point can include a connection-oriented transmission channel or a connectionless transmission channel. For example, a transmission channel can be replaced by a transmission path.

[0342] For example, when the connection between the NSF and the anchor is a connectionless transport path, connection establishment is only required after obtaining the peer's address information and completing the configuration at both ends; no explicit connection establishment operation is needed. Alternatively, when the connection between the NSF and the anchor is a connection-oriented transport channel, connection establishment is required after obtaining the peer's address information. This address information must be usable by the transport layer; if it is not transport layer address information, it can be mapped to transport layer address information.

[0343] In step S4107, anchor point redirection is triggered.

[0344] Optionally, if the source anchor or CMF / SMF performs anchor redirection, then steps S4105c and / or S4106b can be performed.

[0345] In step S4105c, the redirected anchor point sends its information to the NSF.

[0346] Step S4106b: NSF establishes a connection between NSF and the redirected anchor point.

[0347] Optionally, the establishment of the connection between the NSF and the redirected anchor can be performed by the redirected anchor or the SMF / CMF.

[0348] Optionally, when there is no signaling and / or data that any network service needs to process on the source anchor (i.e., the anchor before redirection), the connection between the NSF and the source anchor is released.

[0349] Step S4108: Exchange UL / DL signaling and / or data of network services between the UE and the anchor point.

[0350] Optionally, the anchor point (which may include the anchor point before redirection or the anchor point after redirection) sends at least one of the following to the UE: DL signaling of the network service and DL data of the network service; the UE sends at least one of the following to the anchor point: UL signaling of the network service and UL data of the network service.

[0351] Step S4109: The anchor point processes UL / DL signaling and / or data for network services.

[0352] Optionally, for UL signaling and / or data, the target NSF for the network service and / or UE to be redirected is sent, and the DL signaling and / or data from the target NSF of the redirected network service and / or UE is repackaged and sent to the UE.

[0353] Step S4110: Exchange UL / DL signaling and / or data of network services between the anchor point and the NSF.

[0354] Optionally, the anchor point (which may include the anchor point before or after redirection) sends at least one of the following to the NSF: UL signaling and UL data of the network service; the NSF sends at least one of the following to the anchor point: DL signaling and DL data of the network service.

[0355] In some embodiments, the network service can be the service in the previous embodiments; the UE can be the terminal in the previous embodiments; the NSF can be the first network function in the previous embodiments; the anchor point (the anchor point before redirection) can be the third network function in the previous embodiments; the anchor point (the anchor point after redirection) can be the fifth network function in the previous embodiments; UDM / UDR / PCF can be the second network function in the previous embodiments; SMF / CMF can be the fourth network function in the previous embodiments; the connection between the UE or the terminal and the anchor point can be the first connection in the previous embodiments; the connection between the NSF and the anchor point (e.g., the anchor point before redirection) can be the second connection in the previous embodiments; the connection between the NSF and the anchor point (e.g., the anchor point after redirection) can be the third connection in the previous embodiments.

[0356] The information processing method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4110. For example, step S4103 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4106 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S4104 to S4105 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S4104, S4105, and S4106 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S4104, S4105, S4106, and S4107 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; a combination of steps S4104, S4105, S4106, S4107, and S4108 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; and a combination of steps S4101 to S4110 may be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0357] In some embodiments, steps S4101 to S4102 and steps S4106 to S4110 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0358] 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.

[0359] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Furthermore, another apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by network devices (e.g., access network devices, core network functional nodes, core network devices (e.g., first network function, second network function, third network function, fourth network function, terminal, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0360] 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), and 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), such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0361] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0362] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first network function 5100 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5A, the first network function 5100 includes at least one of a first transceiver module 5101 and a first processing module 5102. In some embodiments, the first transceiver module 5101 is used to transmit first information. Optionally, the first transceiver module 5101 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (e.g., steps S2101, S2102, and / or S2106, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the first network function 5100 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the first processing module 5102 is used to determine third information. Optionally, the first processing module 5102 is used to perform at least one of the processing steps (e.g., steps S2103, S2104, and / or S2105, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the first network function 5100 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0363] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second network function 5200 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5B, the second network function 5200 includes a second transceiver module 5201. In some embodiments, the second transceiver module 5201 is used to receive first information. Optionally, the second transceiver module 5201 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (e.g., step S2101, but not limited thereto) performed by the second network function 5200 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the second network function 5200 includes a second processing module.

[0364] Figure 5C is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fourth network function 5300 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5C, the fourth network function 5300 includes at least one of a third transceiver module 5301 and a third processing module 5302. In some embodiments, the third transceiver module 5301 is used to acquire fourth information. Optionally, the third transceiver module 5301 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (e.g., step S2102, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the fourth network function 5300 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the third processing module 5302 is used to establish a second connection. Optionally, the third processing module 5302 is used to perform at least one of the processing steps (e.g., steps S2103, S2104, and / or step S2105, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the fourth network function 5300 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0365] In some embodiments, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and / or a receiving module, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the transceiver module may be interchangeable with a transceiver. For example, the first transceiver module described above includes a first transmitting module and / or a first receiving module. For example, the second transceiver module described above includes a second transmitting module and / or a second receiving module.

[0366] 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.

[0367] In some embodiments, the processing module can be replaced by the processor, and the transceiver module can be replaced by the transceiver.

[0368] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device 6100 proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 6100 can be a network device (e.g., an access network device (e.g., a base station), a core network device (e.g., a first network function, a second network function, a third network function, a fourth network function, etc.), a terminal (e.g., a user equipment), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 6100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0369] As shown in Figure 6A, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 includes one or more processors 6101. The processor 6101 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 6100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0370] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more transceivers 6102. When the communication device 6100 includes one or more transceivers 6102, the transceiver 6102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S2101, S2102, and / or S2106, but not limited thereto), and the processor 6101 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S2102, S2103, S2104, and / or S2105, but not limited thereto). In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, interface, etc., can be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably; and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., can be used interchangeably.

[0371] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more memories 6103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 6103 to cause the communication device 6100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 6103 may also be located outside the communication device 6100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 6100 may include one or more interface circuits 6104. Optionally, the interface circuit 6104 is connected to the memory 6102 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 6102 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 6102 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 6104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 6102 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 6101.

[0372] The communication device 6100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 6100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 6100 may not be limited by FIG. 6A. The communication device may be a standalone device or may be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection having one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0373] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of chip 6200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 6100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of chip 6200 shown in Figure 6B, but it is not limited thereto.

[0374] Chip 6200 includes one or more processors 6201. Chip 6200 is used to perform any of the methods described above.

[0375] In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more interface circuits 6202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more memories 6203 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 6203 may be located outside of chip 6200. Optionally, interface circuit 6202 is connected to memory 6203, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from memory 6203 or other devices, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to send data and / or instructions to memory 6203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 6202 can read data and / or instructions stored in memory 6203 and send the data and / or instructions to processor 6201.

[0376] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 6202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method (e.g., steps S2101, S2102, and / or S2106, but not limited thereto). The interface circuit 6202 performing the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method refers, for example, to the interface circuit 6202 performing data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 6201, the chip 6200, the memory 6203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 6201 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S2102, S2103, S2104, and / or S2105, but not limited thereto).

[0377] 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.

[0378] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0379] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0380] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

1. An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by the first network function, including: Send first information to the second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain the second information; The second information is related to the first connection, and the second information is used to determine the third information of the third network function; the first connection is the connection between the terminal and the third network function.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The third information includes at least one of the following: The first address information of the third network function; A first identifier is used to indicate the third network function.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second information includes at least one of the following: A connection indication, wherein the connection indication is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; The second identifier is used to indicate the first type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; The third identifier is used to indicate the second type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; The third information includes at least one of the following: first address information and first identifier of the third network function; the first identifier is used for the third network function. Record information, wherein the record information is used to indicate information related to the first connection; The fourth identifier is used to indicate the specified data network.

4. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 3, characterized in that, The method includes one of the following: The third information is determined based on the third information included in the second information; The third information is obtained from the fourth network function.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the third information from the fourth network function includes: Send fourth information to the fourth network function, wherein the fourth information is used to request the third information; Receive the fifth information sent by the fourth network function, wherein the fifth information includes the third information.

6. The method according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The fourth network function includes either a first type of fourth network function or a second type of fourth network function; obtaining the third information from the fourth network function includes one of the following: The third information is obtained from the first type of fourth network function; wherein the third network function is managed by the first type of fourth network function; or, the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function, and the third information is obtained from the second type of fourth network function by the first type of fourth network function. The third information is obtained from the second type of fourth network function, wherein the third network function is managed by the second type of fourth network function.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Before obtaining the third information from the second type of fourth network function, one of the following is also included: Based on the second information, the second type of fourth network function is determined; Obtain the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The step of obtaining the second type of fourth network function from the first type of fourth network function includes: Send a sixth message to the first type of fourth network function, wherein the sixth message is used to request a seventh message; The seventh information sent by the first type of fourth network function is received, wherein the seventh information includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; Based on the seventh piece of information, the second type of fourth network function is determined.

9. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fourth piece of information is a request, and the fifth piece of information is a response. or, The fourth piece of information is subscription information, and the fifth piece of information is subscription response information or notification information.

10. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 9, characterized in that, The method further includes: Based on the third information, a second connection is established with the third network function, wherein the second connection is one of the following: user plane connection, control plane connection, and data plane connection.

11. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 10, characterized in that, The method further includes: Obtain the eighth information, wherein the eighth information is used to indicate the fifth network function, the fifth network function being the network function to which the service is redirected by the third network function; Based on the eighth information, a third connection is established with the fifth network function, wherein the third connection is one of the following: user plane connection, control plane connection, and data plane connection.

12. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The method also includes one of the following: If there is no business information that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function, release the second connection; If there is business information that needs to be transmitted between the first network function and the third network function, modify the second connection.

13. The method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of the following: Downlink information of a service is sent to the third network function via the second connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is sent by the third network function to the terminal via the first connection; Through the second connection, the uplink information of the service sent by the third network function is received, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the third network function from the terminal through the first connection; Downlink information of a service is sent to a fifth network function via a third connection, wherein the downlink information of the service is sent by the fifth network function to the terminal via the first connection; Through the third connection, the uplink information of the service sent by the fifth network function is received, wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained by the fifth network function from the terminal through the first connection.

14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that, The first network function includes one of the following: network service function; The second network function includes one of the following: unified data management function, unified data storage function, policy control function, and network exposure function; The third network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and any network function that has network service data processing function or network service data proxy function. The fourth network function includes one of the following: a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function; the first type of fourth network function is a network function for session management; the second type of fourth network function is a network function for connection management. The fifth network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and any network function that has network service data processing function or network service data proxy function; wherein, the fifth network function is the network function after service redirection.

15. An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by the second network function, including: Receive first information sent by a first network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain second information from the second network function; The second information is related to the first connection, and the second information is used by the first network function to determine the third information of the third network function; the first connection is the connection between the terminal and the third network function.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The third information includes at least one of the following: The first address information of the third network function; A first identifier is used to indicate the third network function.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The second information includes at least one of the following: A connection indication, wherein the connection indication is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; The second identifier is used to indicate the first type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; The third identifier is used to indicate the second type of fourth network function in the fourth network function; The third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the third network function and a first identifier; the first identifier is used to indicate the third network function. Record information, wherein the record information is used to indicate information related to the first connection; The fourth identifier is used to indicate the specified data network name.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, characterized in that, The first network function includes one of the following: network service function; The second network function includes one of the following: unified data management function, unified data storage function, policy control function, and network exposure function; The third network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and any network function that has network service data processing function or network service data proxy function; wherein, the third network function is the network function before service redirection; The fourth network function includes one of the following: a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function; the first type of fourth network function is a network function for session management; the second type of fourth network function is a network function for connection management. The fifth network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and any network function that has network service data processing function or network service data proxy function; wherein, the fifth network function is the network function before service redirection.

19. An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by the fourth network function, including: The system receives a fourth message sent by a first network function, wherein the fourth message is used to request a third message; the third message is used to instruct a third network function; and the third network function is connected to the terminal via a first connection. Send a fifth message to the first network function, wherein the fifth message includes the third message.

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The fourth piece of information is a request, and the fifth piece of information is a response. or, The fourth piece of information is subscription information, and the fifth piece of information is subscription response information or notification information.

21. The method according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The third information includes at least one of the following: The first address information of the third network function; A first identifier is used to indicate the third network function.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, characterized in that, The fourth network function is a first type of fourth network function; the method further includes: Receive the sixth information sent by the first network function, wherein the sixth information is used to obtain the seventh information; The seventh information is sent to the first network function, wherein the seventh information is used by the first network function to determine the second type of fourth network function; the seventh information includes at least one of the following: a third identifier and second address information of the second type of fourth network function; the third identifier is used to indicate the second type of fourth network function.

23. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The method further includes: The third information is obtained from the second type of fourth network function.

24. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 23, characterized in that, The method further includes: If it is determined that the service is redirected from the third network function to the fifth network function, the eighth information is sent to the first network function. The eighth information is used to indicate the fifth network function, and the eighth information is used for the first network function to establish a third connection with the fifth network function; the third connection is one of the following: user plane connection, control plane connection, and data plane connection.

25. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 24, characterized in that, The method further includes: Establish a second connection between the first network function and the third network function, wherein the second connection is one of the following: user plane connection, control plane connection, and data plane connection; A third connection is established between the first network function and the fifth network function, wherein the third connection is one of the following: user plane connection, control plane connection, and data plane connection; the fifth network function is the network function to which the service is redirected by the third network function.

26. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 25, characterized in that, The first network function includes one of the following: network service function; The second network function includes one of the following: unified data management function, unified data storage function, policy control function, and network exposure function; The third network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and any network function that has network service data processing function or network service data proxy function; wherein, the third network function is the network function before service redirection; The fourth network function includes one of the following: a first type of fourth network function and a second type of fourth network function; the first type of fourth network function is a network function for session management; the second type of fourth network function is a network function for connection management. The fifth network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and any network function that has network service data processing function or network service data proxy function; wherein, the fifth network function is the network function before service redirection.

27. An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by a communication system, the communication system including: a first network function, a second network function, and a third network function; the method includes: The first network function sends first information to the second network function, wherein the first information is used to obtain the second information; The second information is related to the first connection, and the second information is used to determine the third information of the third network function; the first connection is the connection between the terminal and the third network function.

28. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is used to perform the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, or claims 15 to 18, or claims 19 to 26.

29. A communication system, characterized in that, include: The network comprises a first network function, a second network function, and a fourth network function; wherein the first network function is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 1 to 14, the second network function is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 15 to 18, and the fourth network function is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 19 to 26.

30. A storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that, When the instructions are executed on a communication device, the communication device performs the information processing method as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, or claims 15 to 18, or claims 19 to 26.

31. A computer 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 a communication device, it implements the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, or claims 15 to 18, or claims 19 to 26.

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