Communication method, space-based control unit, space-based radio access network element, ground-based control unit, medium, and product

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a communication method, applied to a space-based control unit in a space-based communication subsystem. The method comprises: acquiring information of a plurality of space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem; and selecting, from among the plurality of space-based user plane network elements, a target space-based user plane network element corresponding to a target ground-based control unit, wherein the target ground-based control unit is located within the coverage range of the target space-based user plane network element, and the target ground-based control unit is used for processing a communication signal sent by the target space-based user plane network element. The present disclosure also provides a space-based control unit, a space-based radio access network element, a ground-based control unit, a computer-readable medium, and a computer program product.

Description

Communication methods, space-based control units, space-based wireless access network elements, ground-based control units, media and products

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application CN 202510227931.3, filed on February 27, 2025, entitled “Communication Method, Space-based Control Unit, Space-based Wireless Access Network Element, Ground-based Control Unit, Medium and Product”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method, a space-based control unit, a space-based wireless access network element, a ground-based control unit, a computer-readable medium, and a computer program product. Background Technology

[0004] When terrestrial communication systems converge with satellite communication systems, the high speed of satellite movement causes the space-based user plane network elements covering the terrestrial base station to constantly change. Therefore, the terrestrial base station needs to acquire information from multiple space-based user plane network elements multiple times in order to achieve uninterrupted communication between the terrestrial and satellite systems.

[0005] However, due to the narrow communication bandwidth between the ground and the satellite, the ground base station will occupy the communication bandwidth when acquiring information from multiple space-based user network elements, thereby reducing communication efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a communication method, a space-based control unit, a space-based wireless access network element, a ground-based control unit, a computer-readable medium, and a computer program product.

[0007] This disclosure provides a communication method applied to a space-based control unit in a space-based communication subsystem. The method includes: acquiring information of multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem; selecting a target space-based user plane network element corresponding to a target ground-based control unit from the multiple space-based user plane network elements, wherein the target ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, and the target ground-based control unit is used to process communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0008] This disclosure provides a communication method applied to a space-based wireless access network element in a space-based communication subsystem. The method includes: receiving information about a target space-based user plane network element sent by a space-based network repository functional entity; and forwarding the information about the target space-based user plane network element to a target ground-based control unit, wherein the target ground-based control unit is used to process the communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0009] This disclosure provides a communication method applied to a ground-based control unit in a ground-based communication subsystem. The method includes: receiving information about a target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem, wherein the ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element; determining the target user plane network element based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element; and establishing a communication connection with the target user plane network element.

[0010] This disclosure provides a space-based control unit, including one or more processors and a memory, wherein one or more programs are stored in the memory, and when the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors, the one or more processors implement the communication method according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0011] This disclosure provides a space-based wireless access network element, including: one or more processors and a memory, wherein the memory stores one or more programs, and when the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors, the one or more processors implement the communication method according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0012] This disclosure provides a ground control unit, including one or more processors and a memory, wherein one or more programs are stored in the memory, and when the one or more programs are executed by the one or more processors, the one or more processors implement a communication method according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0013] This disclosure provides a readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements a communication method according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0014] This disclosure provides a computer program product including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements a communication method according to this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0015] In the accompanying drawings of the embodiments disclosed herein:

[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the composition of the communication system provided by the relevant technical solution;

[0017] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0018] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another component of the communication system provided by the relevant technical solution;

[0019] Figure 4 is another flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 5 is another flowchart illustrating the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the composition of the communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for selecting a target space-based user plane network element by a space-based control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another component of the communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 9 is another flowchart illustrating a method for a space-based control unit to select a target space-based user plane network element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 10 is another flowchart illustrating a method for a space-based control unit to select a target space-based user plane network element according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 11 is a block diagram of the space-based control unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0027] Figure 12 is a block diagram of the composition of the space-based wireless access network element provided in the embodiments of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 13 is a block diagram of the foundation control unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 14 is a block diagram of the electronic device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0030] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of this disclosure, the embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure will be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, the embodiments shown may be embodied in different forms, and this disclosure should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth below. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will enable those skilled in the art to fully understand the scope of this disclosure.

[0031] The accompanying drawings of the embodiments disclosed herein are provided to further illustrate the embodiments of this disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the detailed embodiments to explain this disclosure and do not constitute a limitation thereof. The above and other features and advantages will become more apparent to those skilled in the art from the description of the detailed embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Where there is no conflict, the various embodiments of this disclosure and the features thereof in the embodiments may be combined with each other.

[0033] The terminology used in this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the disclosure. The term "and / or" as used in this disclosure includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated enumerated entries. The singular forms "a" and "the" as used in this disclosure are also intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms "comprising," "made of," etc., as used in this disclosure specify the presence of the stated feature, integral, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integrals, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0034] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used in this disclosure (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. It will also be understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure, and will not be interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning, unless expressly so specified in this disclosure.

[0035] When terrestrial communication systems converge with satellite communication systems, they typically interact with multiple user plane functions (UPFs) deployed on satellites through ground-based control plane network elements to select a target space-based UPF and thus obtain the optimal communication service provided by the target space-based UPF.

[0036] For example, Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the composition of a communication system provided by a related technical solution. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system includes a space-based communication subsystem and a ground-based communication subsystem.

[0037] The ground-based communication subsystem includes terminal 101, a ground-based Access and Mobility Management function (AMF) network element (i.e., ground-based AMF 102), and a ground-based Session Management Function (SMF) network element 103 (i.e., ground-based SMF 103). The space-based communication subsystem includes multiple space-based UPFs (e.g., space-based UPF 104, space-based UPF 105, etc.).

[0038] Because the space-based UPF moves quickly and the space-based UPF covering the ground-based SMF 103 changes constantly, the ground-based SMF 103 needs to acquire information from many space-based UPFs. However, the communication bandwidth between the space-based network element and the ground-based network element is narrow. When the ground-based SMF 103 acquires information from multiple space-based UPFs, it consumes this communication bandwidth, thereby reducing the communication efficiency between the space-based network element and the ground-based network element.

[0039] To address the aforementioned problems, this disclosure provides a communication method, a space-based control unit, a ground-based control unit, a computer-readable medium, and a computer program product. The communication method of this disclosure can improve the communication efficiency between the ground and satellite.

[0040] Figure 2 is a schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. This communication method is applied to a space-based control unit in a space-based communication subsystem. The space-based control unit can be a space-based radio access network element (e.g., a radio access network (RAN) element set in the space-based communication subsystem), or a space-based network repository function entity (e.g., a network repository function (NRF) entity set in the space-based communication subsystem, etc.). Any device capable of implementing the communication method of this disclosure is acceptable; this disclosure does not impose any limitations on this, and further details will not be provided here.

[0041] As shown in Figure 2, the communication method according to the embodiments of this disclosure includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S21 to S22.

[0042] In step S21, information about multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem is obtained.

[0043] Space-based user plane network elements are network elements deployed in space-based communication subsystems that provide user plane service data. These elements can store the service data required by terminals, support routing and forwarding of this data, and identify the type of service data.

[0044] For example, space-based user plane network elements can be fifth-generation mobile communication technology (5G) deployed in space-based communication subsystems. th The UPF in the Generation Mobile Communication Technology (5G) network can also be used for the fourth generation mobile communication technology (4G). th The Serving Gateway (SGW) and / or Packet Data Network Gateway (PDN gateway, also known as PGW) in Generation Mobile Communication Technology (4G) networks. The above is only an example and can be configured according to actual needs. Other space-based user plane network elements not mentioned are also within the scope of protection of this disclosure and will not be elaborated here.

[0045] Information about space-based user plane network elements includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the space-based user plane network element, the bandwidth information used by the space-based user plane network element, the service capabilities of the space-based user plane network element, the load information of the space-based user plane network element, and the operating trajectory information of the space-based user plane network element (e.g., the real-time location information of the space-based user plane network element, the operating direction of the space-based user plane network element, and the operating speed of the space-based user plane network element).

[0046] In step S22, the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit is selected from multiple space-based user plane network elements.

[0047] The target ground-based control unit is located within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, and the target ground-based control unit is used to process the communication signals transmitted by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0048] A target ground-based control unit is a device used in conjunction with a space-based control unit to provide terrestrial communication services to terminals. For example, the target ground-based control unit can be a control unit in a terrestrial base station or a control plane unit in a terrestrial core network device.

[0049] It should be noted that as long as the space-based control unit can filter out the target space-based user plane network element, it can determine the space-based user plane network element that the target ground-based control unit needs to connect to. Then, it can send the information of the space-based user plane network element to the target ground-based control unit, so that the target ground-based control unit does not need to communicate with multiple space-based user plane network elements repeatedly, and can directly obtain the information of the target user plane network element, reducing the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element.

[0050] In some embodiments, a ground terminal needs a space-based user plane network element to provide it with communication service data. In this case, the device that provides ground communication services to the terminal is the target ground control unit (e.g., a ground base station). Correspondingly, the ground base station is a base station within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, so as to assist the space-based control unit in providing communication services to the terminal through the communication channel between it and the target space-based user plane network element.

[0051] According to the communication method of this disclosure, a target space-based user plane network element corresponding to a target ground-based control unit is selected from multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem by a space-based control unit. Since the target ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, the target ground-based control unit can directly obtain the information of the target user plane network element without needing to repeatedly communicate with multiple space-based user plane network elements. The target ground-based control unit processes the communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element, reducing the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element. This not only reduces the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite but also improves communication efficiency.

[0052] In some embodiments, the deployment orbit of the space-based control unit is higher than the deployment orbit of the space-based user plane network element.

[0053] Space-based control units can be deployed in high orbits (e.g., geostationary satellite orbit, GEO), while space-based user plane network elements can be deployed in medium and low orbits (e.g., medium-Earth orbit, MEO, or low-Earth orbit, LEO). As long as the deployment orbit of the space-based control unit is higher than that of the space-based user plane network elements, it is possible to simultaneously cover multiple space-based user plane network elements through a single space-based control unit, thereby enabling more accurate acquisition of information from multiple space-based user plane network elements.

[0054] In some embodiments, selecting the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from a plurality of space-based user plane network elements (i.e., step S22) includes: selecting the target space-based user plane network element from a plurality of space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element.

[0055] The relative position information between the space-based control unit and the space-based user plane network element can reflect the distance between the space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit. Therefore, the space-based user plane network element closest to the space-based control unit can be selected as the target space-based user plane network element based on this distance.

[0056] Once the relative positions between the space-based control unit and the space-based user plane network element are determined, it can be clearly determined whether the space-based user plane network element can provide complete service data to the terminal served by the space-based control unit.

[0057] The closer a space-based user plane network element is to the space-based control unit, the faster it can send service data to the control unit for end-user use. If the element is far from the control unit, it will consume more communication resources on the communication link, reducing the efficiency of service data communication.

[0058] In some embodiments, the space-based control unit is a space-based radio access network element, and the relative position information includes the relative position information between the space-based radio access network element and each space-based user plane network element.

[0059] Selecting a target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element includes: acquiring the position information of the target ground-based control unit and the operational trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element; determining the predicted coverage duration of the target ground-based control unit within the coverage area of ​​each space-based user plane network element based on the relative position information, the position information of the target ground-based control unit, and the operational trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element; and selecting the target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on multiple predicted coverage durations.

[0060] By comparing the location information of the target ground-based control unit with that of the space-based control unit, and if it is determined that the target ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the space-based control unit, all space-based user plane network elements within that coverage area can be considered as a set of candidate devices. Since each space-based user plane network element is mobile relative to the ground, only if the space-based user plane network element moves to a position capable of covering the target ground-based control unit, and ensures that the target ground-based control unit is also within the coverage area of ​​the space-based control unit, can it be determined that the space-based user plane network element is a usable user plane network element by the target ground-based control unit.

[0061] For example, a space-based control unit can cover a target ground-based control unit (e.g., a terrestrial base station), and its corresponding ground coverage area is the first coverage area. Within a certain time period (e.g., the hour from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM), the ground coverage area (i.e., the second coverage area) corresponding to a certain space-based user plane network element overlaps with the first coverage area. In this case, it can be determined that the space-based user plane network element is capable of providing communication services to the target ground-based control unit; that is, the space-based user plane network element is capable of providing communication services to the target ground-based control unit in the area where the first and second coverage areas overlap. The hour from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM can be used as the predicted coverage duration corresponding to the space-based user plane network element.

[0062] Furthermore, by adopting the above method, multiple space-based user plane network elements and their corresponding predicted coverage durations can be obtained. Then, based on the predicted coverage durations, the multiple space-based user plane network elements are filtered to obtain the space-based user plane network element with the longest predicted coverage duration as the target space-based user plane network element. This ensures that the target space-based user plane network element can continuously provide communication services to the target ground-based control unit, thereby achieving relatively stable communication between the target space-based user plane network element and the target ground-based control unit and improving the communication stability between the ground and the satellite.

[0063] In some embodiments, the method further includes: sending information about the corresponding target space-based user plane network element to the target ground-based control unit.

[0064] The space-based control unit can communicate directly with the target ground-based control unit. Therefore, when the space-based control unit selects and obtains the target space-based user plane network element, the space-based control unit transmits the information of the target space-based user plane network element directly to the target ground-based control unit.

[0065] When the target ground control unit receives information from its corresponding target space-based user plane network element, the target ground control unit no longer needs to communicate repeatedly with other space-based user plane network elements. It only needs to establish a communication channel directly with the target space-based user plane network element to obtain the communication services provided by the target space-based user plane network element. This can reduce the number of interactions between the target ground control unit and each space-based network element and reduce the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite.

[0066] In some embodiments, selecting a target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element includes: determining the communication delay between the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element based on the relative position information; and selecting the target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the multiple communication delays.

[0067] When transmitting communication signals using the same transmission power, the closer the relative positions of the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element, the smaller the corresponding communication delay.

[0068] In some embodiments, the space-based user plane network element with the lowest communication latency can be selected as the target space-based user plane network element from a plurality of space-based user plane network elements, or a group of space-based user plane network elements (i.e., a plurality of space-based user plane network elements) with relatively low communication latency can be selected as the target space-based user plane network element.

[0069] By selecting a space-based user plane network element with lower communication latency as the target space-based user plane network element, the transmission time between the target space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit can be reduced, thereby enabling the space-based control unit to obtain the service data sent by the target space-based user plane network element more quickly.

[0070] In some embodiments, selecting a target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element includes: acquiring the running trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element; determining the temporal relative distance between each space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit based on the relative position information and the running trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element for multiple preset times within a preset time period; and selecting a target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the multiple temporal relative distances corresponding to each space-based user plane network element.

[0071] The relative distance at a given time is the relative distance between the space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit at a preset time. The trajectory information of the space-based user plane network element includes at least one of the following: the location information of the space-based user plane network element (e.g., the longitude and latitude of the space-based user plane network element, or the location information of the space-based user plane network element represented by coordinates in a self-built coordinate system, etc.), the operating speed of the space-based user plane network element, and the operating direction of the space-based user plane network element, etc.

[0072] Since the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element are moving relative to the ground, and their respective moving speeds are different, the relative distance between the space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit also varies. Based on the trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element, the relative distance between the space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit at a preset time can be estimated. This allows obtaining the relative distances at multiple preset times, and selecting the space-based user plane network element whose relative distance to the space-based control unit within a preset distance threshold range (e.g., 1 kilometer, 2 kilometers, etc.) within a preset time period, thus obtaining the target space-based user plane network element.

[0073] For example, within the ten minutes from 12:00 to 12:10, the relative distance at each minute can be calculated to obtain the relative distances at 12:01, 12:02, ..., 12:10. From these ten relative distances, space-based user plane network elements with a distance of less than or equal to 1 kilometer can be selected as target space-based user plane network elements.

[0074] The target space-based user plane network elements obtained by the above method can be guaranteed to be those that are close to the space-based control unit, thereby ensuring uninterrupted communication between them and the space-based control unit and guaranteeing the continuity of communication in the space-based communication subsystem.

[0075] In some embodiments, selecting a target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the relative distances at multiple times corresponding to each space-based user plane network element includes: determining the average distance within a preset time period based on the number of preset times included in the preset time period and the relative distances at each preset time period; and selecting the target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the average distance.

[0076] After obtaining the relative distances between each preset moment within the preset duration, the relative distances between each moment can be summed to obtain the sum of relative distances. Then, the quotient of the sum of relative distances and the number of preset moments included in the preset duration is calculated as the average distance within the preset duration.

[0077] Regardless of the movement of the space-based user plane network element, as long as the average distance within a preset time period is calculated, the distance between the space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit can be reflected by the average distance. Based on the average distance, the target space-based user plane network element can be selected from multiple space-based user plane network elements. This enables accurate selection of multiple space-based user plane network elements, allowing the finally obtained target space-based user plane network element to communicate more stably with the space-based control unit, thereby improving communication stability.

[0078] In some embodiments, the space-based control unit is a space-based network storage function entity, and the space-based communication subsystem also includes a space-based radio access network element. The relative position information includes the relative position information between the space-based radio access network element and each space-based user plane network element.

[0079] Selecting a target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each space-based user plane network element includes: in response to receiving a network element filtering request sent by a space-based radio access network element, obtaining the position information of the target ground-based control unit; obtaining the locally stored operational trajectory information of multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the position information of the target ground-based control unit; determining the predicted coverage duration of the target ground-based control unit within the coverage area of ​​each space-based user plane network element based on the relative position information, the position information of the target ground-based control unit, and the operational trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element; and selecting the target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the multiple predicted coverage durations.

[0080] The network element filtering request is used to request the space-based network repository functional entity to filter multiple space-based user plane network elements stored therein in order to obtain target space-based user plane network elements that meet the usage requirements of the target ground-based control unit.

[0081] For example, the network element screening request carries the location information of the target ground control unit (e.g., the latitude and longitude information of the target ground control unit on Earth).

[0082] In some embodiments, a network element screening request can also be a resource request to obtain resources of a target space-based user plane network element that meets the usage requirements of the target ground-based control unit.

[0083] When the space-based network storage entity obtains the location information of the target ground-based control unit, it performs an initial screening of multiple space-based user plane network elements stored locally, based on the target ground-based control unit's location information. This screening aims to identify multiple space-based user plane network elements whose coverage area matches the target ground-based control unit's location information. Since the target ground-based control unit is a ground device within the coverage area of ​​the space-based radio access network element, when screening the multiple space-based user plane network elements stored in the space-based network storage entity, all space-based user plane network elements within the coverage area of ​​the space-based radio access network element can be used as a candidate set. The entity then obtains the operational trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element in this candidate set.

[0084] Since each space-based user plane network element is mobile relative to the ground, it can only be determined that a space-based user plane network element is a user plane network element that can be used by the target ground-based control unit if the space-based user plane network element moves to a position that can cover the target ground-based control unit and ensures that the target ground-based control unit is also within the coverage range of the space-based control unit.

[0085] For example, a space-based control unit can cover a target ground-based control unit (e.g., a ground base station), and the corresponding ground coverage area is the first coverage area. During a certain period of time (e.g., within one hour from 3 PM to 4 PM), the ground coverage area (i.e., the second coverage area) corresponding to a certain space-based control unit overlaps with the first coverage area. Then, it can be determined that the space-based user plane network element is a user plane network element that can provide communication services to the target ground-based control unit. That is, the space-based user plane network element is a user plane network element that can provide communication services to the target ground-based control unit in the area where the first coverage area and the second coverage area overlap.

[0086] The one-hour period from 3 PM to 4 PM can be used as the predicted coverage duration for the space-based user plane network element.

[0087] Furthermore, by adopting the above method, multiple space-based user plane network elements and their corresponding predicted coverage durations can be obtained. Then, based on the predicted coverage durations, the multiple space-based user plane network elements are filtered to obtain the space-based user plane network element with the longest predicted coverage duration as the target space-based user plane network element. This ensures that the target space-based user plane network element can continuously provide communication services to the target ground-based control unit, thereby achieving relatively stable communication between the target space-based user plane network element and the target ground-based control unit and improving the communication stability between the ground and the satellite.

[0088] In some embodiments, the space-based control unit is a space-based network repository functional entity, and the space-based communication subsystem also includes a space-based radio access network element.

[0089] Obtaining information from multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem (i.e., step S21) includes: the space-based network storage function entity receiving information from each space-based user plane network element. Furthermore, the method also includes: the space-based network storage function entity sending information about a target space-based user plane network element to a space-based radio access network element, which then forwards the information to the target ground control unit.

[0090] The space-based network repository functional entity is an NRF deployed in the space-based communication subsystem. It can obtain more accurate and comprehensive information about each space-based user plane network element and the location information of the space-based RAN, and realize accurate assessment of the relative positional relationship of each network element in the space-based subsystem.

[0091] In some embodiments, the space-based network repository functional entity selects the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from a plurality of space-based user plane network elements. The space-based network repository functional entity may evaluate the relative positional relationship between each space-based user plane network element and the space-based RAN to determine which space-based user plane network element has the closest relative position to the space-based RAN, and / or which space-based user plane network element has the least communication delay with the space-based RAN, thereby filtering the target space-based user plane network element from a plurality of space-based user plane network elements to make the selected target space-based user plane network element more accurate.

[0092] In some related technical solutions, ground-based control plane network elements (e.g., RAN network elements, SMF, etc.) send service requests to NRF entities located in the ground-based communication subsystem. Based on information from multiple space-based UPFs carried in the service response from the NRF entity, a target space-based UPF is selected. However, since the NRF is deployed in the ground-based communication subsystem, it cannot obtain the location information of the space-based RAN. This prevents the ground-based control unit from assessing the forwarding delay of communication messages between the space-based RAN and the space-based UPF, reducing the accuracy of selecting multiple space-based UPFs.

[0093] For example, Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of another component of the communication system provided by the relevant technical solution. As shown in Figure 3, the communication system includes a space-based communication subsystem and a ground-based communication subsystem. The ground-based communication subsystem includes a terminal 301, a ground-based AMF 302, a ground-based SMF 303, and a ground-based NRF 304 connected in sequence. The space-based communication subsystem includes a space-based RAN 305 and multiple space-based UPFs (e.g., space-based UPF 306, space-based UPF 307, etc.).

[0094] The ground-based NRF 304 is used to obtain the location information of each space-based UPF. When the ground-based SMF 303 needs to select a suitable target space-based UPF from multiple space-based UPFs for communication, the ground-based SMF 303 needs to send a service request to the ground-based NRF 304 to obtain the location information of multiple space-based UPFs fed back by the ground-based NRF 304.

[0095] However, the ground-based NRF 304 can only obtain the location information of each space-based UPF, and the location information of each space-based UPF changes in real time. The ground-based NRF 304 cannot obtain the accurate location information of the space-based RAN 305, which makes it impossible for the ground-based SMF 303 to evaluate the forwarding delay of communication messages between the space-based RAN 305 and the space-based UPF, thus reducing the accuracy of selecting multiple space-based UPFs.

[0096] As one embodiment of this disclosure, a space-based network storage unit deployed in the space-based communication subsystem is used as the space-based control unit. The space-based network storage unit receives information about each space-based user plane network element sent by each space-based user plane network element. This not only allows for accurate information about each space-based user plane network element, but also enables the acquisition of relevant location information of the space-based RAN. Based on the location relationship between the space-based RAN and each space-based user plane, the forwarding delay of communication messages between the space-based RAN and the space-based UPF can be evaluated. This allows for the selection of more accurate target space-based user plane network elements from multiple space-based user plane network elements, thereby improving the accuracy of space-based user plane network element selection.

[0097] Figure 4 is another schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. This communication method is applied to a space-based wireless access network element in a space-based communication subsystem.

[0098] As shown in Figure 4, the communication method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S41 to S42.

[0099] In step S41, information about the target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem is received.

[0100] The space-based control unit can be a space-based network storage function entity, which is used to select the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from multiple space-based user plane network elements. The space-based control unit can also be other devices capable of transmitting information about the target space-based user plane network element, located within a space-based communication subsystem, and capable of implementing the communication methods applied to the space-based control unit in this disclosure. This disclosure does not impose any limitations on this, and further details are omitted here.

[0101] For example, the space-based network repository functional entity evaluates the relative positional relationship between each space-based user plane network element and the space-based radio access network element to determine which space-based user plane network element is closest to the space-based radio access network element, and / or which space-based user plane network element has the least communication delay with the space-based radio access network element, and then filters the target space-based user plane network element from multiple space-based user plane network elements, so as to make the selected target space-based user plane network element more accurate.

[0102] In step S42, the information of the target space-based user plane network element is forwarded to the target ground-based control unit.

[0103] The target ground-based control unit is used to process communication signals transmitted by the target space-based user plane network elements.

[0104] In this embodiment, the space-based network repository functional entity selects the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem. This eliminates the need for the target ground-based control unit to repeatedly communicate with multiple space-based user plane network elements, allowing it to directly obtain the target user plane network element's information. When the space-based radio access network element receives the target space-based user plane network element information sent by the space-based network repository functional entity, it can forward the information to the target ground-based control unit. This enables the target ground-based control unit to communicate directly with the target space-based user plane network element, reducing the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element. This not only reduces the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite but also improves communication efficiency.

[0105] Figure 5 is another schematic flowchart of the communication method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. This communication method is applied to a ground control unit in a ground-based communication subsystem.

[0106] As shown in Figure 5, the communication method includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S51 to S53.

[0107] In step S51, information about the target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem is received.

[0108] The ground-based control unit is a unit deployed in the ground-based communication subsystem that performs signaling control functions and filters user plane network elements. The ground-based control unit is located within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element.

[0109] For example, the ground-based control unit can be a control unit in a ground base station or a control plane unit in a ground core network device.

[0110] When the ground control unit is a control unit in a ground base station, the ground control unit can be a control unit in a base station deployed in a 5G communication network on the ground.

[0111] When the ground control unit is a control plane unit in a terrestrial core network device, the ground control unit can be an AMF and / or SMF deployed in a terrestrial 5G communication network, or a Mobility Management Entity (MME) deployed in a terrestrial 4G communication network. The above are just examples, and can be configured according to actual needs. Other ground control units not mentioned are also within the scope of protection of this disclosure, and will not be elaborated here.

[0112] By receiving information about the target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit, the ground-based control unit can directly obtain the information of the optimal space-based user plane network element, eliminating the need for repeated communication with multiple space-based user plane network elements. This reduces the number of interactions between the ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, thereby reducing the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite.

[0113] In step S52, the target user plane network element is determined based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element.

[0114] The target user plane network element can be a target space-based user plane network element, or a user plane network element obtained by further screening from the ground-based control unit.

[0115] For example, the communication method further includes: acquiring information about multiple ground-based user plane network elements in the ground-based communication subsystem.

[0116] Determining the target user plane network element based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element (i.e., step S52) includes: determining the target user plane network element based on the information of the target space-based user plane network element and the information of multiple ground-based user plane network elements.

[0117] Ground-based user plane network elements are user plane network elements located on the ground, such as ground-based UPFs, ground-based SGWs, and / or PDN gateways. When the ground control unit obtains information about the target space-based user plane network element, it can also compare the information of multiple ground-based user plane network elements with that of the target space-based user plane network element to select the target user plane network element that best meets the terminal's usage needs, thereby ultimately determining the target user plane network element to provide service data to the terminal.

[0118] In some embodiments, the ground-based control unit may also filter the target user plane network element by combining the operator's configuration information (e.g., the information of the user plane network element configured by the operator for the terminal), that is, by filtering the target user plane network element from the information of the user plane network element configured by the operator for the terminal, the information of the target space-based user plane network element, and the information of multiple ground-based user plane network elements.

[0119] By using the above-mentioned various filtering methods, the target user plane network elements obtained can be the most suitable user plane network elements for the terminal's usage needs, thereby improving the user experience.

[0120] In step S53, a communication connection is established with the target user plane network element.

[0121] By establishing communication connections with target user plane network elements, higher-quality communication services are provided to the terminal.

[0122] In this embodiment, the ground-based control unit receives information about the target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem. This allows the ground-based control unit to directly obtain information about the target space-based user plane network element it wishes to connect to, without needing to perform multiple repetitive communications with multiple space-based user plane network elements. This reduces the number of interactions between the ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, thereby reducing the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite. Furthermore, by determining the target user plane network element based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element, a target user plane network element that better meets the terminal's usage needs can be obtained. This ultimately determines the target user plane network element to provide service data to the terminal, and through the communication connection between the target user plane network element and the ground-based control unit, communication between the ground and the satellite is quickly realized, improving communication efficiency.

[0123] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the composition of the communication system provided in this embodiment. As shown in Figure 6, the communication system includes a space-based communication subsystem and a ground-based communication subsystem. The ground-based communication subsystem includes a terminal 601 and a target ground-based control unit 602. The space-based communication subsystem includes a space-based control unit 603 and multiple space-based user plane network elements (e.g., a first space-based user plane network element 6041, a second space-based user plane network element 6042, ..., a k-th space-based user plane network element 604k, where k represents the number of space-based user plane network elements and k is an integer greater than or equal to 1).

[0124] Terminal 601 is communicatively connected to space-based control unit 603, and space-based control unit 603 is communicatively connected to target ground-based control unit 602.

[0125] Terminal 601 sends an access request to space-based control unit 603 so that terminal 601 can access the communication system and obtain service data provided by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0126] The target foundation control unit 602 is used to implement any of the communication methods applied to the foundation control unit described in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0127] The space-based control unit 603 is used to implement any of the communication methods applied to the space-based control unit as described in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0128] In some embodiments, the space-based control unit 603 can be a space-based radio access network element or a space-based network repository functional entity. The target ground-based control unit includes a ground-based AMF and a ground-based SMF.

[0129] For example, Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a space-based control unit to select a target space-based user plane network element according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The space-based control unit is a space-based RAN or a space-based NRF.

[0130] As shown in Figure 7, the method for the space-based control unit to select the target space-based user plane network element includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S701 to S708.

[0131] In step S701, the terminal sends an access request to the space-based control unit.

[0132] The access request includes at least one of the following: the data network name (DNN) used by the terminal, the mobile phone number corresponding to the terminal, and the network slice information corresponding to the terminal (e.g., Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI)).

[0133] In step S702, the space-based control unit obtains information on multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the usage requirements in the access request.

[0134] In step S703, the space-based control unit selects the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from multiple space-based UPFs.

[0135] The target ground-based control unit is located within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, and the target ground-based control unit is used to process the communication signals transmitted by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0136] In some embodiments, when the space-based control unit filters multiple space-based UPFs, it may use a preset relative position selection algorithm to filter the multiple space-based UPFs.

[0137] The target space-based UPF obtained through screening is the UPF with the lowest load and / or the lowest communication delay.

[0138] In step S704, the space-based control unit sends a session creation request to the ground-based AMF.

[0139] The session creation request carries the attribute information of the target space-based UPF (e.g., the attribute information of space-based UPF1).

[0140] In step S705, the ground-based AMF forwards a session creation request to the ground-based SMF.

[0141] The session creation request carries the attribute information of the target space-based UPF.

[0142] For example, the ground-based AMF can carry the attribute information of the target space-based UPF by sending an N11 message (or an Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext Request message) to the ground-based SMF.

[0143] In step S706, the ground-based SMF determines the target UPF based at least on the attribute information of the target space-based UPF carried in the session creation request.

[0144] The target space-based UPF can be directly used as the target UPF, or the target space-based UPF can be compared with multiple ground-based UPFs (and / or operator-configured UPFs) to determine the target UPF.

[0145] If the target UPF is determined to be space-based UPF1, proceed to step S707.

[0146] In step S707, the ground-based SMF sends a communication link creation request to the space-based UPF1.

[0147] In step S708, the space-based UPF1 sends a communication link creation response to the ground-based SMF.

[0148] When the ground-based SMF receives a communication link creation response from the space-based UPF1, and the communication link creation response carries a successful creation identifier, it indicates that the communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1 has been successfully established.

[0149] In some embodiments, a communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1 can be established through the N4 interface.

[0150] In step S709, the terminal communicates with the space-based UPF1 so that the terminal can obtain the service data provided by the space-based UPF1.

[0151] Communication data between the terminal and the space-based UPF1 needs to be forwarded through the communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1, so that the terminal located on the ground can access the service data on the space-based UPF and improve the user experience.

[0152] In this embodiment, the space-based control unit (e.g., space-based RAN or space-based NRF) filters multiple space-based UPFs according to the terminal's usage requirements to obtain the target space-based UPF, and sends the target space-based UPF information to the target ground-based control unit (e.g., ground-based AMF and ground-based SMF). This reduces the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, lowers the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite, and enables rapid communication between the ground and the satellite based on the communication between the target space-based UPF and the target ground-based control unit, thereby improving communication efficiency.

[0153] In some embodiments, the communication system includes a space-based radio access network element deployed in low Earth orbit and a space-based network repository functional entity deployed in high Earth orbit.

[0154] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram of another component of the communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 8, the communication system includes a space-based communication subsystem and a ground-based communication subsystem. The ground-based communication subsystem includes a terminal 811, a ground-based AMF 821, a ground-based SMF 822, and a ground-based user plane network element 851. The space-based communication subsystem includes a space-based radio access network element 831 deployed in low Earth orbit, multiple space-based user plane network elements (e.g., a first space-based user plane network element 841, a second space-based user plane network element 842, ..., a k-th space-based user plane network element 84k, where k represents the number of space-based user plane network elements and k is an integer greater than or equal to 1), and a space-based network storage function entity 832 deployed in high Earth orbit.

[0155] Terminal 811 can directly send a communication access request to space-based radio access network element 831, so that space-based radio access network element 831 can select the target space-based user plane network element (e.g., second-generation space-based user plane network element 842) corresponding to the target ground-based control unit (e.g., ground-based AMF 821 and ground-based SMF 822) from multiple space-based user plane network elements according to the needs of terminal 811, and send the corresponding target space-based user plane network element information to ground-based AMF 821, so that ground-based AMF 821 can forward the obtained target space-based user plane network element information to ground-based SMF 822, thereby enabling ground-based SMF 822 to communicate directly with the target space-based user plane network element.

[0156] The space-based network storage repository functional entity 832 is used to store information of various space-based user plane network elements. When it receives a data request from the space-based radio access network element 831 that includes the requirements of the terminal 811, it sends the information of multiple space-based user plane network elements that meet the requirements of the terminal 811 to the space-based radio access network element 831 for selection.

[0157] In some embodiments, the space-based radio access network element 831 may also forward the communication access request obtained by the terminal 811 to the space-based network storage function entity 832, so that the space-based network storage function entity 832 can filter multiple space-based user plane network elements according to the information of multiple space-based user plane network elements stored therein, and feed back the information of the selected target space-based user plane network element to the space-based radio access network element 831, so that the space-based radio access network element 831 can forward the information of the target space-based user plane network element to the ground-based AMF 821.

[0158] In some embodiments, the space-based radio access network element 831 and multiple space-based user plane network elements are deployed in low Earth orbit (e.g., MEO or LEO), which can reduce data latency and transmission costs.

[0159] Furthermore, deploying the space-based network repository functional entity 832 in high orbit (e.g., GEO) can reduce the number of space-based network elements deployed and improve the coverage of the space-based network repository functional entity 832.

[0160] In some embodiments, the space-based radio access network element 831 can be any one of a space-based base station, a space-based RAN, or a control plane unit in a space-based core network device. The space-based network storage function entity 832 can be a space-based NRF. Both space-based and ground-based user plane network elements can be UPFs or other network elements capable of processing user plane service data.

[0161] It should be noted that the above types of space-based wireless access network element 831 and space-based network storage function entity 832 are illustrative examples. The corresponding settings can be made according to the actual use. Other types not mentioned are also within the protection scope of this disclosure and will not be elaborated here.

[0162] In the communication system of this embodiment, the target space-based user plane network element obtained through screening can be sent to the ground-based AMF 821 through the space-based control unit, so that the ground-based AMF 821 forwards it to the ground-based SMF 822. This facilitates the ground-based SMF 822 to directly establish a communication connection with the target space-based user plane network element (or to screen the target space-based user plane network element with multiple ground-based user plane network elements 851 again to obtain the final target user plane network element for use), without having to perform multiple repeated communications with multiple space-based user plane network elements. This reduces the number of interactions between the ground-based SMF 822 and each space-based network element, reduces the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite, and quickly realizes communication between the ground and the satellite based on the communication between the target space-based user plane network element and the target ground-based control unit, thereby improving communication efficiency.

[0163] Figure 9 is another flowchart illustrating a method for selecting a target space-based user plane network element by a space-based control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0164] For example, the space-based RAN can be the space-based radio access network element 831 in Figure 8, the space-based NRF can be the space-based network storage function entity 832 in Figure 8, the space-based UPF1 and space-based UPF2 can be any two of the multiple space-based user plane network elements in Figure 8, and the ground-based UPF can be the ground-based user plane network element 851 in Figure 8.

[0165] As shown in Figure 9, the method for the space-based control unit to select the target space-based user plane network element includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S901 to S909.

[0166] In step S901, the terminal sends an access request to the space-based RAN.

[0167] The access request includes at least one of the following: the DNN used by the terminal, the mobile phone number corresponding to the terminal, and the network slice information corresponding to the terminal (e.g., S-NSSAI).

[0168] In step S902, the space-based RAN sends a resource request to the space-based NRF.

[0169] The resource request carries the terminal's attribute information (e.g., the DNN used by the terminal, the mobile phone number, the network slice information corresponding to the terminal, etc.) and the space-based RAN's operation information (e.g., the space-based RAN's real-time location information, the space-based RAN's operating direction, operating speed, etc.).

[0170] In step S903, the space-based NRF selects a target space-based UPF (e.g., space-based UPF1, space-based UPF2, etc.) from multiple space-based UPFs based on the real-time location information of multiple registered space-based UPFs (e.g., space-based UPF1, space-based UPF2, etc.), combined with the operation information of the space-based RAN and the operation trajectory information of each space-based UPF, and sends the attribute information of the target space-based UPF (e.g., the identifier of the target space-based UPF, etc.) to the space-based RAN.

[0171] It should be noted that each space-based UPF can send a registration message to the space-based NRF, so that the space-based NRF can register each space-based UPF and obtain relevant information about the registered space-based UPF.

[0172] In some embodiments, the space-based UPF sends an NFManagement_NFRegister message to the space-based NRF so that the space-based NRF can learn about the relevant information of the space-based UPF (e.g., the operation trajectory information of the space-based UPF, the bandwidth information that the space-based UPF can use, the service capabilities of the space-based UPF, the load information of the space-based UPF, etc.).

[0173] In some embodiments, the space-based UPF periodically reports its relevant information to the space-based NRF so that the space-based NRF can synchronize and update the relevant information of the stored and registered space-based UPFs.

[0174] In some embodiments, the space-based NRF can carry attribute information of the target space-based UPF by sending N2 messages to the space-based RAN, thereby reducing the number of interaction messages between the space-based NRF and the space-based RAN.

[0175] In some embodiments, when the space-based NRF filters multiple space-based UPFs, it may use a preset relative position selection algorithm to filter the multiple space-based UPFs.

[0176] The target space-based UPF obtained through screening is the UPF with the lowest load and / or the lowest communication delay.

[0177] In some embodiments, the relative position selection algorithm includes: for multiple preset times within a preset time period, determining the temporal relative distance between each space-based UPF and the space-based RAN based on the relative position information of the space-based RAN and the space-based UPF and the running trajectory information of each space-based UPF; and selecting a target space-based UPF from multiple space-based UPFs based on the multiple temporal relative distances corresponding to each space-based UPF.

[0178] Based on the relative distances at multiple times corresponding to each space-based UPF, a target space-based UPF is selected from multiple space-based UPFs, including: determining the average distance within a preset time period based on the number of preset times included in the preset time period and the relative distances at each preset time period; and selecting the target space-based UPF from multiple space-based UPFs based on the average distance.

[0179] For example, the relative position selection algorithm is represented as follows:

[0180] 1. Initialize the following information: preset duration (time_range), number of preset moments included within the preset duration (step_count), time step between adjacent preset moments (time_step), preset maximum distance threshold (max_distance_threshold), and an empty list valid_upfs, where the list valid_upfs is used to store the identifier of the target space-based UPF.

[0181] 2. For each space-based UPF, perform the following steps:

[0182] a. Initialize the total distance (sum_distance) to 0, the number of preset moments included within the preset duration (step_count) to 0, and the average distance (avg_distance) to 0.

[0183] b. At each preset moment within the preset duration, perform the following steps:

[0184] i. Based on the operational information of the space-based RAN (e.g., the initial position of the space-based RAN (longitude lat1, latitude lon1), speed (speed1), direction (angle1), etc.), calculate the predicted position (ran_position) of the space-based RAN at the preset time;

[0185] ii. Calculate the predicted position (upf_position) of the space-based UPF at a preset time based on the space-based UPF's trajectory information (e.g., the initial position of the space-based UPF (longitude lat2, latitude lon2), running speed (speed2), running direction (angle2), etc.);

[0186] iii. Calculate the spherical distance between ran_position and upf_position;

[0187] iv. If distance is greater than max_distance_threshold, stop calculating the distance between the current space-based UPF and the space-based RAN at the current preset time;

[0188] v. If distance is less than or equal to max_distance_threshold, then add distance to sum_distance and update step_count to (step_count+1);

[0189] c. Determine if step_count is greater than the maximum value of the number of preset moments included within the preset duration, count_max (e.g., 1, 5, 10, etc.); if step_count is less than count_max, repeat steps i to v for the next preset moment; if step_count is greater than or equal to count_max, calculate the average distance avg_distance = sum_distance / step_count.

[0190] d. Determine if avg_distance is less than max_distance_threshold; if avg_distance is less than max_distance_threshold, add the identifier of the space-based UPF to the valid_upfs list; if avg_distance is greater than or equal to max_distance_threshold, discard the space-based UPF (i.e., the space-based UPF is not suitable as the target space-based UPF).

[0191] 3. Use each space-based UPF in the valid_upfs list as the target space-based UPF.

[0192] By using a preset relative position selection algorithm, the space-based NRF filters multiple space-based UPFs to obtain a target space-based UPF that meets the terminal's usage requirements. The target space-based UPF's attribute information (such as the target space-based UPF's identifier) ​​is then sent to the space-based RAN for subsequent processing.

[0193] In step S904, the space-based RAN sends a session creation request to the ground-based AMF.

[0194] The session creation request carries the attribute information of the target space-based UPF (e.g., the attribute information of space-based UPF1).

[0195] In some embodiments, the space-based RAN can carry attribute information of the target space-based UPF through the N2 message sent to the ground-based AMF.

[0196] In step S905, the ground-based AMF forwards a session creation request to the ground-based SMF.

[0197] The session creation request carries the attribute information of the target space-based UPF.

[0198] For example, the ground-based AMF can carry the attribute information of the target space-based UPF by sending an N11 message (or an Nsmf_PDUSession_CreateSMContext Request message) to the ground-based SMF.

[0199] In step S906, the ground-based SMF determines the target UPF based at least on the attribute information of the target space-based UPF carried in the session creation request.

[0200] The target space-based UPF can be directly used as the target UPF, or the target space-based UPF can be compared with multiple ground-based UPFs (and / or operator-configured UPFs) to determine the target UPF.

[0201] If the target UPF is determined to be space-based UPF1, proceed to step S907.

[0202] In step S907, the ground-based SMF sends a communication link creation request to the space-based UPF1.

[0203] In step S908, the space-based UPF1 sends a communication link creation response to the ground-based SMF.

[0204] When the ground-based SMF receives a communication link creation response from the space-based UPF1, and the communication link creation response carries a successful creation identifier, it indicates that the communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1 has been successfully established.

[0205] In some embodiments, a communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1 can be established through the N4 interface.

[0206] In step S909, the terminal communicates with the space-based UPF1 so that the terminal can obtain the service data provided by the space-based UPF1.

[0207] Communication data between the terminal and the space-based UPF1 needs to be forwarded through the communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1, so that the terminal located on the ground can access the service data on the space-based UPF and improve the user experience.

[0208] In this embodiment, the space-based NRF filters multiple space-based UPFs within its coverage area to obtain the target space-based UPF, and sends the target space-based UPF to the target ground-based control unit (e.g., ground-based AMF and ground-based SMF) through the space-based RAN. This reduces the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, reduces the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite, and enables rapid communication between the ground and the satellite based on the communication between the target space-based UPF and the target ground-based control unit, thereby improving communication efficiency.

[0209] Figure 10 is another schematic flowchart illustrating the method for selecting a target space-based user plane network element by a space-based control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. It should be noted that the network element devices shown in Figure 10 are the same as those shown in Figure 9, and will not be described again here.

[0210] As shown in Figure 10, the method for the space-based control unit to select the target space-based user plane network element includes, but is not limited to, the following steps S1001 to S1010.

[0211] In step S1001, the terminal sends an access request to the space-based RAN.

[0212] In step S1002, the space-based RAN sends a resource request to the space-based NRF.

[0213] In step S1003, the space-based NRF selects a target space-based UPF (e.g., space-based UPF1, space-based UPF2, etc.) from multiple space-based UPFs based on the real-time location information of multiple registered space-based UPFs (e.g., space-based UPF1, space-based UPF2, etc.), combined with the operation information of the space-based RAN and the operation trajectory information of each space-based UPF, and sends the attribute information of the target space-based UPF (e.g., the identifier of the target space-based UPF, etc.) to the space-based RAN.

[0214] The target space-based UPF can be multiple space-based UPFs, and the attribute information of multiple space-based UPFs can be sent to the space-based RAN in the form of a list.

[0215] In step S1004, the space-based RAN sends a session creation request to the ground-based AMF.

[0216] The session request carries a list of target space-based UPFs (i.e., a list including attribute information of space-based UPF1 and attribute information of space-based UPF2).

[0217] In step S1005, the ground-based AMF forwards a session creation request to the ground-based SMF.

[0218] In step S1006, the ground-based SMF determines the target UPF based at least on the target space-based UPF list carried in the session creation request.

[0219] In step S1007, the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1 exchange information to create a first communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF1.

[0220] In step S1008, the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF2 exchange information to create a second communication link between the ground-based SMF and the space-based UPF2.

[0221] In step S1009, the terminal communicates with the space-based UPF1 through the first communication link so that the terminal can obtain the service data provided by the space-based UPF1.

[0222] In step S1010, the terminal communicates with the space-based UPF2 through the second communication link so that the terminal can obtain the service data provided by the space-based UPF2.

[0223] In this embodiment, the space-based NRF filters multiple space-based UPFs within its coverage area to obtain a list of target space-based UPFs. The list of target space-based UPFs is then sent to the target ground-based control unit (e.g., ground-based AMF and ground-based SMF) via the space-based RAN. This enables the ground-based SMF to establish communication links with multiple target space-based UPFs simultaneously and provide service data to the terminal through multiple communication links (e.g., the first communication link and the second communication link). This enhances the transmission reliability of the service data provided by the target space-based UPFs, ensures that the terminal's data services are not damaged when some target space-based UPFs fail, and improves the access reliability of onboard services.

[0224] Figure 11 is a block diagram of the space-based control unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 11, the space-based control unit 1100 includes, but is not limited to, a first memory 1101 and a first processor 1102.

[0225] The first memory 1101 stores a computer program, which, when executed by the first processor 1101, implements the communication method performed by the space-based control unit according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0226] In some embodiments, the communication method includes: acquiring information of multiple space-based user plane network elements in a space-based communication subsystem; selecting a target space-based user plane network element corresponding to a target ground-based control unit from the multiple space-based user plane network elements, wherein the target ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, and the target ground-based control unit is used to process communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0227] According to the space-based control unit of this disclosure embodiment, the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem selects the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem. The target ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element. The target ground-based control unit does not need to communicate repeatedly with multiple space-based user plane network elements, and can directly obtain the information of the target user plane network element. This reduces the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, which can not only reduce the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite, but also improve communication efficiency.

[0228] Figure 12 is a block diagram of the composition of a space-based wireless access network element provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 12, the space-based wireless access network element 1200 includes, but is not limited to, a second memory 1201 and a second processor 1202.

[0229] The second memory 1201 stores a computer program, which, when executed by the second processor 1202, implements the communication method performed by the space-based wireless access network element according to the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0230] In some embodiments, the communication method includes: receiving information about a target space-based user plane network element sent by a space-based network repository functional entity in a space-based communication subsystem; and forwarding the information about the target space-based user plane network element to a target ground-based control unit, wherein the target ground-based control unit is used to process the communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element.

[0231] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, when a space-based wireless access network element receives information about a target space-based user plane network element sent by a space-based network repository functional entity, it can forward the information about the target space-based user plane network element to a target ground-based control unit, so that the target ground-based control unit can communicate directly with the target space-based user plane network element. This reduces the number of interactions between the target ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, which can not only reduce the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite, but also improve communication efficiency.

[0232] Figure 13 is a block diagram of the foundation control unit provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 13, the foundation control unit 1300 includes, but is not limited to, a third memory 1301 and a third processor 1302.

[0233] The third memory 1301 stores a computer program, which, when executed by the third processor 1302, implements the communication method performed by the ground control unit according to the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0234] In some embodiments, the communication method includes: receiving information about a target space-based user plane network element sent by a space-based control unit in a space-based communication subsystem, wherein the ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element; determining the target user plane network element based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element; and establishing a communication connection with the target user plane network element.

[0235] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the ground-based control unit, by receiving information about the target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem, can directly obtain the information of the target space-based user plane network element it wishes to connect to. This eliminates the need for repeated communication with multiple space-based user plane network elements, reducing the number of interactions between the ground-based control unit and each space-based network element, and lowering the proportion of communication bandwidth occupied between the ground and the satellite. Furthermore, by determining the target user plane network element based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element, a target user plane network element that better meets the terminal's usage requirements can be obtained. This ultimately determines the target user plane network element to provide service data to the terminal, and through the communication connection between the target user plane network element and the ground-based control unit, rapid communication between the ground and the satellite is achieved, improving communication efficiency.

[0236] It should be clarified that this disclosure is not limited to the specific configurations and processes described in the foregoing embodiments and shown in the figures. For the sake of convenience and brevity, detailed descriptions of known methods are omitted here, and the specific working processes of the systems, modules, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, which will not be repeated here.

[0237] Figure 14 is a block diagram of the electronic device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0238] As shown in FIG14, the electronic device includes: at least one processor 1401, at least one memory 1402, and one or more I / O interfaces 1403. The processor 1401, memory 1402, and I / O interfaces 1403 are interconnected via a bus 1404. The memory 1402 stores one or more computer programs, which are executed by the at least one processor 1401 to enable the at least one processor 1401 to implement the communication methods described in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0239] The various modules in an electronic device can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in the processor of a computer device in hardware form or independent of it, or they can be stored in the memory of a computer device in software form, so that the processor can call and execute the operations corresponding to these modules.

[0240] This disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program thereon, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the communication methods described in the embodiments of this disclosure. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile computer-readable storage medium.

[0241] This disclosure also provides a computer program product, including computer-readable code, or a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium carrying computer-readable code, wherein when the computer-readable code is run in a processor of an electronic device, the processor in the electronic device executes a communication method according to various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0242] Those skilled in the art will understand that all or some of the steps, systems, and devices disclosed above, as well as the functional modules / units, can be implemented as software, firmware, hardware, or suitable combinations thereof. In hardware implementations, the division between functional modules / units mentioned in the above description does not necessarily correspond to the division of physical components; for example, a physical component may have multiple functions, or a function or step may be performed collaboratively by several physical components.

[0243] Some or all of the physical components may be implemented as software executed by a processor, such as a central processing unit, digital signal processor, or microprocessor, or as hardware, or as an integrated circuit, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Such software may be distributed on a computer-readable storage medium, which may include computer storage media (or non-transitory media) and communication media (or transient media). As is known to those skilled in the art, the term computer storage medium includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storing information (such as computer-readable program instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data). Computer storage media include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), static random access memory (SRAM), flash memory or other memory technologies, portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), digital versatile disc (DVD) or other optical disc storage, magnetic cartridges, magnetic tape, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired information and is accessible to a computer. Furthermore, as is known to those skilled in the art, communication media typically contain computer-readable program instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in modulated data signals such as carrier waves or other transmission mechanisms, and may include any information delivery medium.

[0244] The computer-readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded from computer-readable storage media to various computing / processing devices, or downloaded via a network, such as the Internet, local area network, wide area network, and / or wireless network, to an external computer or external storage device. The network may include copper transmission cables, fiber optic transmission, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers, and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives the computer-readable program instructions from the network and forwards them to the computer-readable storage media in the respective computing / processing device.

[0245] The computer program product described herein can be implemented specifically through hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In one alternative embodiment, the computer program product is specifically embodied in a computer storage medium; in another alternative embodiment, the computer program product is specifically embodied in a software product, such as a software development kit (SDK), etc.

[0246] Various aspects of this disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-readable program instructions.

[0247] These computer-readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine such that, when executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, they create means for implementing the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram. These computer-readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that causes a computer, programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other device to operate in a particular manner; thus, the computer-readable medium storing the instructions comprises an article of manufacture that includes instructions for implementing aspects of the functions / actions specified in one or more blocks of the flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0248] Computer-readable program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby causing the instructions executed on the computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to perform the functions / actions specified in one or more boxes of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0249] The flowcharts and block diagrams in the accompanying drawings illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in a flowchart or block diagram may represent a module, segment, or portion of an instruction containing one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. In some alternative implementations, the functions marked in the blocks may occur in a different order than those marked in the drawings. For example, two consecutive blocks may actually be executed substantially in parallel, and they may sometimes be executed in reverse order, the execution order of which may be determined based on the functions involved in each block. It should also be noted that each block in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowcharts, may be implemented using a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or using a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0250] Example embodiments have been disclosed herein, and while specific terminology has been used, it is for illustrative purposes only and should be construed as such, and is not intended to be limiting. In some instances, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with particular embodiments may be used alone, or in combination with features, characteristics, and / or elements described in connection with other embodiments, unless otherwise expressly indicated. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A communication method applied to a space-based control unit in a space-based communication subsystem, the method comprising: Obtain information from multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem; Select the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements. The target ground-based control unit is located within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element, and the target ground-based control unit is used to process the communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The deployment orbit of the space-based control unit is higher than the deployment orbit of the space-based user plane network element.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Selecting the target space-based user plane network element corresponding to the target ground-based control unit from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements includes: Based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each of the space-based user plane network elements, the target space-based user plane network element is selected from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The space-based control unit is a space-based radio access network element, and the relative position information includes the relative position information between the space-based radio access network element and each of the space-based user plane network elements. Selecting the target space-based user plane network element from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each of the space-based user plane network elements includes: Acquire the location information of the target ground-based control unit and the operational trajectory information of each of the space-based user plane network elements; Based on the relative position information, the position information of the target ground-based control unit, and the operational trajectory information of each of the space-based user plane network elements, the predicted coverage duration of the target ground-based control unit within the coverage area of ​​each of the space-based user plane network elements is determined. Based on the predicted coverage duration, the target space-based user plane network element is selected from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements.

5. The method according to claim 4, further comprising: The information of the corresponding target space-based user plane network element is sent to the target ground-based control unit.

6. The method according to claim 3, wherein, Selecting the target space-based user plane network element from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each of the space-based user plane network elements includes: Based on the relative position information, the communication delay between the space-based control unit and each of the space-based user plane network elements is determined respectively; Based on the communication delay, the target space-based user plane network element is selected from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements.

7. The method according to claim 3, wherein, Selecting the target space-based user plane network element from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each of the space-based user plane network elements includes: Obtain the operational trajectory information of each of the aforementioned space-based user plane network elements; For multiple preset times within a preset time period, the relative time distance between each space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit is determined based on the relative position information and the running trajectory information of each space-based user plane network element. The relative time distance is the relative distance between the space-based user plane network element and the space-based control unit at the preset time. The target space-based user plane network element is selected from the multiple space-based user plane network elements based on the relative distances between each of the space-based user plane network elements at multiple times.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, Selecting the target space-based user plane network element from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements based on the multiple time-relative distances corresponding to each of the aforementioned space-based user plane network elements includes: Based on the number of preset moments included in the preset duration and the relative distance between each preset moment, the average distance within the preset duration is determined; Based on the average distance, the target space-based user plane network element is selected from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements.

9. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The space-based control unit is a functional entity for the space-based network storage repository. The space-based communication subsystem also includes a space-based radio access network element. The relative position information includes the relative position information between the space-based radio access network element and each of the space-based user plane network elements. Selecting the target space-based user plane network element from the plurality of space-based user plane network elements based on the relative position information between the space-based control unit and each of the space-based user plane network elements includes: In response to receiving a network element filtering request sent by the space-based wireless access network element, the location information of the target ground-based control unit is obtained; Based on the location information of the target ground-based control unit, obtain the operational trajectory information of the multiple space-based user plane network elements stored locally; Based on the relative position information, the position information of the target ground-based control unit, and the operational trajectory information of each of the space-based user plane network elements, the predicted coverage duration of the target ground-based control unit within the coverage area of ​​each of the space-based user plane network elements is determined. Based on the multiple predicted coverage durations, the target space-based user plane network element is selected from the multiple space-based user plane network elements.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, Obtaining information from multiple space-based user plane network elements in the space-based communication subsystem includes: the space-based network repository functional entity receiving information about the space-based user plane network elements sent by each of the space-based user plane network elements. The method further includes: The space-based network repository functional entity sends the information of the target space-based user plane network element to the space-based wireless access network element; The space-based wireless access network element forwards the information of the target space-based user plane network element to the target ground-based control unit.

11. A communication method applied to a space-based wireless access network element in a space-based communication subsystem, the method comprising: Receive information about the target space-based user plane network element sent by the space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem; The information of the target space-based user plane network element is forwarded to the target ground-based control unit, wherein the target ground-based control unit is used to process the communication signals sent by the target space-based user plane network element.

12. A communication method applied to a ground-based control unit in a ground-based communication subsystem, the method comprising: The system receives information about a target space-based user plane network element sent by a space-based control unit in the space-based communication subsystem, wherein the ground-based control unit is within the coverage area of ​​the target space-based user plane network element. The target user plane network element is determined at least based on the information of the target space-based user plane network element; Establish a communication connection with the target user plane network element.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: Information about multiple ground-based user plane network elements in the ground-based communication subsystem is obtained. Determining the target user plane network element based at least on the information of the target space-based user plane network element includes: The target user plane network element is determined based on the information of the target space-based user plane network element and the information of the plurality of ground-based user plane network elements.

14. A space-based control unit, comprising a memory and a processor, The memory stores computer programs. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

15. A space-based wireless access network element, comprising a memory and a processor, The memory stores computer programs. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the communication method according to claim 11.

16. A foundation control unit, comprising a memory and a processor, The memory stores computer programs. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the communication method according to any one of claims 12 to 13.

17. A computer-readable medium having a computer program stored thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implements the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

18. A computer program product comprising a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the communication method according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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