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

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an information processing method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium. The information processing method is executed by a first network function, and comprises: receiving first information sent by a second network function, wherein the first information is used for establishing a connection between the second network function and a terminal; and establishing the connection between the second network function and the terminal. The connection between the second network function and the terminal comprises at least one of the following: a first connection, wherein the first connection is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; and a second connection, wherein the second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal. At least part of information associated with a first connection process is used for establishing the second connection.

Description

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

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

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

[0003] The embodiments disclosed herein aim to address the issue of establishing connections between terminals and networks that cannot support network services based on the user plane or data plane.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a first network function, comprising: receiving first information sent by a second network function, the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, the first connection being a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, the second connection being a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection being used to establish the second connection.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a second network function, comprising: sending first information to a first network function, wherein the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, wherein the first connection is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, wherein the second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a terminal, comprising: receiving fifth information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function, wherein the fifth information is related to a second connection; the second connection is a connection between the terminal and a third network function; and establishing the second connection based on the fifth information.

[0007] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a fifth network function or access network device, comprising: receiving thirteenth information sent by a terminal, wherein the thirteenth information is used to establish a connection between the terminal and the network; and determining a first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network.

[0008] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, an information processing method is proposed, executed by a communication system, the communication system comprising: a terminal, a first network function, and a second network function; the method comprising: the second network function sending first information to the first network function; the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, the first connection being a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, the second connection being a connection between the third network function and the terminal; at least some information associated with the first connection being used to establish the second connection.

[0009] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a first network function is provided, comprising: a first transceiver module configured to receive first information sent by a second network function, the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, the first connection being a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, the second connection being a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection being used to establish the second connection.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a second network function execution is provided, comprising: a second transceiver module configured to send first information to a first network function, wherein the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, wherein the first connection is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, wherein the second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection.

[0011] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a terminal is provided, comprising: a third transceiver module configured to receive fifth information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function, wherein the fifth information is related to a second connection; the second connection is a connection between the terminal and the third network function; and establishing the second connection based on the fifth information.

[0012] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a fifth network function or access network device is provided, comprising: a fourth transceiver module configured to receive thirteenth information sent by a terminal, wherein the thirteenth information is used to establish a connection between the terminal and a network; and determining a first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network.

[0013] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, which is used to perform an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, or the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, and the fourth aspect.

[0014] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, including: a first network function, a second network function, a terminal, and a fifth network function; wherein the first network function is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the first aspect, the second network function is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the second aspect, the terminal is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the third aspect, and the fifth network function is configured to perform a method as described in an optional implementation of the fourth aspect.

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

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

[0017] The embodiments disclosed herein can support the establishment of connections between terminals and networks based on user plane or data plane network services. Attached Figure Description

[0018] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings required for the description of the embodiments are introduced below. The following drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure and do not impose specific limitations on the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

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

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

[0025] Figure 5C is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 5D is a schematic diagram of the structure of a fifth network function according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0029] This disclosure provides an information processing method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium.

[0030] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure propose an information processing method executed by a first network function, comprising: receiving first information sent by a second network function, the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, the first connection being a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, the second connection being a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection being used to establish the second connection.

[0031] In the above embodiments, the first network function receives first information sent by the second network function to trigger the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal. The connection between the second network function and the terminal is an end-to-end connection, which may include an end-to-end connection between the second network function and a third network function, and / or an end-to-end connection between the third network function and the terminal. In this way, on the one hand, when transmitting information subsequently, there is no need to expose the addresses of other network functions in the core network to the terminal, thereby improving the security of communication; on the other hand, it is beneficial to network services initiated by other network functions in the core network, which facilitates better support for the introduction of services.

[0032] Furthermore, the establishment of the connection between the second network function and the terminal is triggered by the second network function, which can support the establishment of the connection between the second network function and the terminal triggered by the second network function.

[0033] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function; identifier of the second network function; identifier of the terminal; first indication information, wherein the first indication information is indication information for indicating the transmission of services between the terminal and the second network function; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; service information, wherein the service information includes at least one of the following: service data, service type, and service information type; first protocol indication, wherein the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection.

[0034] In the above embodiments, when the first information includes first indication information, second indication information, and / or service information, it can explicitly or implicitly indicate a request to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; when the first information includes the first address information of the second network function, the identifier of the second network function, and / or the first protocol indication, it can facilitate the subsequent establishment of the first connection. Thus, through the information carried in the first information, it is possible to trigger the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal and / or provide the necessary information for the subsequent establishment of the first connection.

[0035] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, before establishing the first connection, the method further includes: determining a third network function based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal, the service area where the third network function is located, the services supported by the third network function, the load supported by the third network function, the energy information used by the third network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the third network function, the local policy of the third network function, and the subscription information of the terminal.

[0036] In the above embodiments, the third network function (i.e., anchor point) can be determined in a variety of ways, which can flexibly determine the third network function and adapt to more application scenarios.

[0037] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, prior to establishing the first connection, the method further includes: determining second information of a third network function, wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function; second address information of the third network function; and a first protocol indication, wherein the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection.

[0038] In the above embodiments, the second information for the third network function used to establish the first connection can be accurately determined.

[0039] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, determining the second information of the third network function includes one of the following: allocating at least a portion of the second information; or obtaining at least a portion of the second information from the third network function.

[0040] In the above embodiments, the second information can be flexibly determined by the first network function or the third network function, which can adapt to more application scenarios.

[0041] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, establishing a first connection includes one of the following: sending second information to a second network function, wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: second address information of a third network function, an identifier of the third network function, and a first protocol indication; the second information is used by the second network function to establish the first connection; sending third information to the third network function, wherein the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function, an identifier of the second network function, and a first protocol indication; the third information is used by the third network function to establish the first connection; and establishing the first connection based on the acquired second information and third information.

[0042] In the above embodiments, the first connection can be established by a first network function, a second network function, or a third network function, providing multiple ways to establish the first connection and adapting to more application scenarios. Furthermore, the establishment of the first connection facilitates the interaction of service information on the core network device side.

[0043] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, after establishing the first connection, the method further includes: sending fourth information to a fourth network function, wherein the fourth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of a second network function; an identifier of a terminal; an identifier of a third network function; an identifier of a first network function; an identifier of a data network; first address information of the second network function; second address information of the third network function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; and fourth indication information, wherein the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the second connection has not yet been established.

[0044] In the above embodiments, the registration of relevant information related to the first connection can facilitate the subsequent use of this relevant information for establishing a second connection or a connection between the core network and the terminal.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, before establishing the second connection, one of the following is further included: sending fifth information to the terminal; sending fifth information to the terminal through a fifth network function; wherein the fifth information includes at least one of the following: sixth information, the sixth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of a third network function, third address information of the third network function, and a second protocol indication; the second protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the second connection; second indication information, the second indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; fifth indication information, the fifth indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; sixth indication information, the sixth indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the third network function; an identifier of a data network; a first connection identifier, the first connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0046] In the above embodiments, the fifth information can be sent to the terminal in various ways to adapt to more application scenarios. Furthermore, this fifth information can be used to trigger the connection between the terminal and the sixth network function in the core network, facilitating the connection of the second network function to the terminal.

[0047] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, prior to establishing the second connection, the method further includes: determining a sixth network function, wherein the sixth network function is the same as the third network function, or the sixth network function is associated with the third network function.

[0048] In the above embodiments, the first network function can be clearly defined as the sixth network function used to connect the terminal. If the sixth network function is the third network function, the core network side connection and the access network side connection in the connection between the terminal and the second network function use the same relay node, which can successfully enable the second network function to connect to the terminal; or, if the sixth network function is associated with the third network function, the core network side connection and the access network side connection in the connection between the terminal and the second network function use different relay nodes, and the connection between these different relay nodes can also successfully enable the second network function to connect to the terminal.

[0049] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, establishing a second connection includes one of the following: sending seventh information to a terminal, or sending seventh information to a terminal via a fifth network function, wherein the seventh information is used to establish a connection between a sixth network function and the terminal; sending eighth information to the sixth network function, wherein the eighth information is used to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; establishing a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal based on the acquired seventh and eighth information; wherein the seventh information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the sixth network function, fourth address information of the sixth network function, and a third protocol indication, the third protocol indication being used to indicate the protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; the eighth information includes at least one of the following: fifth address information of the terminal; an identifier of the terminal, a first connection identifier, and first rule information, the first rule information being used to indicate the rules for the sixth network function to process data.

[0050] In the above embodiments, the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal can be established by the first network function, the sixth network function, or the terminal itself, providing multiple ways to establish this connection and adapting to more application scenarios. Furthermore, the establishment of this connection facilitates the interaction of service information from the terminal to the core network equipment.

[0051] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first connection identifier includes one of the following: a second connection identifier and a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier is used to indicate the first connection and the third connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier and the third connection identifier are different; a fourth connection identifier, wherein the fourth connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal, and both the second connection identifier and the third connection identifier are fourth connection identifiers.

[0052] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, after establishing the second connection, the method further includes: sending ninth information to the fourth network function, wherein the ninth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the second network function; an identifier of the terminal; an identifier of the sixth network function; an identifier of the first network function; an identifier of the data network; third address information of the third network function or fourth address information of the sixth network function; first address information of the second network function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; and seventh indication information, wherein the seventh indication information is used to indicate that the connection between the terminal and the sixth network function has been established.

[0053] In the above embodiments, the connection information between the terminal and the second network function can be updated in the fourth network function, so that each network function, terminal, etc. can know that the connection between the second network function and the terminal has been established.

[0054] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management; the second network function is a network service function; the third network function or the sixth network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and a network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; the fourth network function includes one of the following: a unified data management function, a unified data storage function, and a network exposure function; the fifth network function is a network function for access and / or mobility management.

[0055] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure propose an information processing method executed by a second network function, comprising: sending first information to a first network function, wherein the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, wherein the first connection is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, wherein the second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection.

[0056] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function; identifier of the second network function; identifier of the terminal; first indication information, wherein the first indication information is indication information for transmitting services between the terminal and the second network function; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; service information, wherein the service information includes at least one of the following: service data, service type, and service information type; first protocol indication, wherein the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection.

[0057] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, before sending the first information to the first network function, the method further includes: determining the first network function based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal, the service area where the first network function is located, the services supported by the first network function, the load supported by the first network function, the energy information used by the first network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the first network function, and the local policy of the first network function.

[0058] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, before determining the first network function, at least one of the following is included: receiving tenth information sent by the first device, wherein the tenth information is used to request information for transmitting services between the second network function and the terminal; determining that the second network function needs to connect to the terminal.

[0059] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, before determining the first network function, one of the following is further included: determining, based on local eleventh information, that a connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established; or determining, based on twelfth information obtained from the fourth network function, that a connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established.

[0060] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes: receiving second information sent by a first network function; wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of a third network function, second address information of the third network function, and a first protocol indication; the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection; and establishing a first connection based on the second information.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: sending downlink information of a service to a third network function based on a first connection; wherein the downlink information of the service is used to send to a terminal; and receiving uplink information of a service sent by the third network function based on the first connection; wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained from the terminal.

[0062] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management; the second network function is a network service function; the third network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and a network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; the fourth network function includes one of the following: a unified data management function, a unified data storage function, and a network exposure function; the first device includes one of the following: an application server, an access network device, a network function, an application function, and a client.

[0063] Thirdly, this disclosure proposes an information processing method executed by a terminal, comprising: receiving fifth information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function, wherein the fifth information is related to a second connection; the second connection is a connection between the terminal and a third network function; and establishing a second connection based on the fifth information.

[0064] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the fifth information includes at least one of the following: sixth information, the sixth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, third address information of the third network function, and a second protocol indication; the second protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the second connection; second indication information, the second indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; fifth indication information, the fifth indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; sixth indication information, the sixth indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the third network function; an identifier of the data network; a first connection identifier, the first connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0065] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, establishing a second connection includes: receiving seventh information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function; establishing a connection between a terminal and a sixth network function based on the seventh information, wherein the sixth network function is the same as or associated with the third network function; wherein the seventh information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the sixth network function; fourth address information of the sixth network function; and a third protocol indication, which is used to indicate the protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0066] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: sending uplink information of a service to the sixth network function through a connection between the terminal and the sixth network function; wherein the uplink information of the service is used to send to the second network function; and receiving downlink information of a service sent by the sixth network function through a connection between the terminal and the sixth network function, wherein the downlink information of the service is obtained from the second network function.

[0067] In conjunction with some embodiments of the third aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management; the second network function is a network service function; the third network function or the sixth network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and a network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; the fifth network function is a network function for access and / or mobility management.

[0068] Fourthly, this disclosure provides an information processing method executed by a fifth network function or access network device, comprising: receiving thirteenth information sent by a terminal, wherein the thirteenth information is used to establish a connection between the terminal and the network; determining a first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network; and sending the thirteenth information to the first network function.

[0069] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, determining a first network function associated with a connection between a terminal and a network includes: obtaining fourteenth information from the fourth network function based on at least one of the following: an identifier of the terminal, an identifier of the data network, a first connection identifier, and a fifth connection identifier; wherein the first connection identifier is used to indicate a connection between the second network function and the terminal; and the fifth connection identifier is used to indicate a connection between the terminal and the network; determining the first network function based on the fourteenth information; wherein the fourteenth information includes at least one of the following stored corresponding to the identifier of the first network function: an identifier of the terminal, an identifier of the data network, a first connection identifier, and a fifth connection identifier.

[0070] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the thirteenth information includes at least one of the following: fifth address information of the terminal; identifier of the second network function; identifier of the terminal; identifier of the data network; seventh indication information, wherein the seventh indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; and fifth connection identifier, which is used to indicate the connection between the terminal and the network.

[0071] In conjunction with some embodiments of the fourth aspect, in some embodiments, the first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management; the second network function is a network service function; the third network function or the sixth network function includes one of the following: a user plane function, a network service data processing function, a network service data proxy, and a network function having a network service data processing function or a network service data proxy function; the fifth network function is a network function for access and / or mobility management.

[0072] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure propose an information processing method executed by a communication system, the communication system comprising: a terminal, a first network function, and a second network function; the method comprising: the second network function sending first information to the first network function, the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, the first connection being a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, the second connection being a connection between the third network function and the terminal; at least some information associated with the first connection being used to establish the second connection.

[0073] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a first network function, comprising: a first transceiver module configured to receive first information sent by a second network function, the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; and a first processing module configured to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, the first connection being a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, the second connection being a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection being used to establish the second connection.

[0074] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a second network function execution, comprising: a second transceiver module configured to send first information to a first network function, wherein the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and a terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, wherein the first connection is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, wherein the second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least a portion of the information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection.

[0075] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a terminal, including: a third transceiver module configured to receive fifth information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function, wherein the fifth information is related to a second connection; the second connection is a connection between the terminal and the third network function; and a second connection is established based on the fifth information.

[0076] In a ninth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a fifth network function or access network device, comprising: a fourth transceiver module configured to receive thirteenth information sent by a terminal, wherein the thirteenth information is used to establish a connection between the terminal and the network; and determining a first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network.

[0077] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device for performing the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, the fourth aspect, or optional implementations of the first aspect, the second aspect, the third aspect, and the fourth aspect.

[0078] Eleventhly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system, including: a first network function, a second network function, a terminal, and a fifth network function; wherein the first network function is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the first aspect, the second network function is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the second aspect, the terminal is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the third aspect, and the fifth network function is configured to perform the method described in the optional implementation of the fourth aspect.

[0079] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, or optional implementations of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, and fourth aspect.

[0080] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product including at least one of a program and instructions, wherein the program and instructions, when executed by a communication device, implement the method described in the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, or optional implementations of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, and fourth aspect.

[0081] In a fourteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the information processing method as described in the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, fourth aspect, or optional implementations of the first aspect, second aspect, third aspect, and fourth aspect.

[0082] In a fifteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a chip or chip system including processing circuitry configured to perform the methods described according to the first, second, third, and fourth aspects, or alternative implementations of the first, second, third, and fourth aspects.

[0083] It is understood that the aforementioned devices (e.g., the first network function, the second network function, the terminal, the third network function, the fourth network function, the fifth network function, etc.), communication systems, storage media, program products, computer programs, chips, or chip systems are all used to execute the methods provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0084] This disclosure provides an information processing method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium. In some embodiments, the terms "information processing method" and "information processing apparatus" are interchangeable, as are "information processing system" and "communication system".

[0085] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments. In all embodiments of this disclosure, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the embodiments are consistent and can be mutually utilized. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0086] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0087] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0088] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0089] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of A or B, at least one of A and B”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0090] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "in response to one case A, in response to another case B", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether there is a branch B); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether there is a branch A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, both A and B are executed. The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0091] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execute A regardless of whether a branch B exists); in some embodiments, B (execute B regardless of whether a branch A exists); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, and C.

[0092] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0093] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0094] In some embodiments, terms such as "time / frequency" and "time-frequency domain" refer to the time domain and / or frequency domain.

[0095] In some embodiments, terms such as “in response to…”, “in response to determining…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably. These descriptions all refer to the device making a corresponding action under certain objective circumstances. They do not necessarily limit the time, nor do they require the device to make a judgment action when implementing it, nor do they mean that there must be other limitations.

[0096] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0097] In some embodiments, devices, etc., may be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Terms such as “device,” “equipment,” “circuit,” “network element,” “network function,” “network device,” “function,” “node,” “unit,” “section,” “system,” “network,” “chip,” “chip system,” “entity,” and “subject” are interchangeable.

[0098] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0099] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)," "radio access network device (RAN device)," "base station (BS)," "radio base station," "fixed station," "node," "access point," "transmission point (TP)," "reception point (RP)," "transmission / reception point (TRP)," "panel," "antenna panel," "antenna array," "cell," "macro cell," "small cell," "femto cell," "pico cell," "sector," "cell group," "serving cell," "carrier," "component carrier," and "bandwidth part (BWP)" can be used interchangeably.

[0100] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", "subscriber station", "mobile unit", "subscriber unit", "wireless unit", "remote unit", "mobile device", "wireless device", "wireless communication device", "remote device", "mobile subscriber station", "access terminal", "mobile terminal", "wireless terminal", "remote terminal", "handset", "user agent", "mobile client", and "client" can be used interchangeably.

[0101] In some embodiments, access network devices, core network devices, or network devices can be replaced by terminals. For example, embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to structures where communication between access network devices, core network devices, or network devices and terminals is replaced by communication between multiple terminals (e.g., device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the structure can also be configured such that the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. Furthermore, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "sidelink"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can be replaced with sidelink channel, and uplink link, downlink, etc., can be replaced with sidelink link.

[0102] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, core network device, or network device may also be configured to have all or some of the functions of the terminal.

[0103] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0104] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0105] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0106] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a communication system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 1, the communication system 100 may include: a terminal 101, an access network device 102, and a core network device 103.

[0107] In some embodiments, terminal 101 includes, for example, at least one of the following: mobile phone, wearable device, Internet of Things device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home, but is not limited thereto.

[0108] In some embodiments, the access network device 102 may be a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: an evolved Node B (eNB), a next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), a next-generation Node B (gNB), a node B (NB), a home node B (HNB), a home evolved node B (HeNB), a wireless backhaul device, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a base transceiver station (BTS), a base band unit (BBU), a mobile switching center, a base station in a 6G communication system, an open RAN, a cloud RAN, a base station in other communication systems, and an access node in a Wi-Fi system, but is not limited thereto.

[0109] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0110] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to a service-based RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between access network devices or between access network devices and core network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be service-based interfaces. The processes and information interactions between these interfaces can be implemented by software or programs that call one or more corresponding services.

[0111] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0112] In some embodiments, the core network device 103 may be a single device including a first network function 1031, a second network function 1032, a third network function 1033, a fourth network function 1034, a fifth network function 1035, or a sixth network function 1036, etc., or it may be multiple devices or a group of devices, each including all or part of the aforementioned first network function 1031, second network function 1032, third network function 1033, fourth network function 1034, fifth network function 1035, and sixth network function 1036. Network functions may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of the following: Evolved Packet Core (EPC), 5G Core Network (5GCN), Next Generation Core (NGC), and 6G Core Network (6GCN).

[0113] In Figure 1, the first network function 1031 can be connected to the access network device 102 through the fifth network function 1035, or the first network function 1031 can be directly connected to the access network device 102. Furthermore, the connections between the devices in Figure 1 are not limited to those shown in Figure 1; any two devices can be interconnected without contradiction. For example, the first network function 1031 can establish a connection with at least one of the following: the second network function 1032, the third network function 1033, the fourth network function 1034, the fifth network function 1035, and the sixth network function 1036.

[0114] In some embodiments, the second network function is also connected to the first device. Optionally, the first device may include one of the following: an application server, an access network device, a network function, an application function, and a client. Optionally, the first device may be a consumer.

[0115] In some embodiments, the first network function 1031 may include at least one of the following: a session management function (SMF), a service management function, a connection management function (CMF), and a service and connection management function, etc.

[0116] In some embodiments, the first network function 1031 is used for managing sessions, managing services, and / or managing connections, etc., and its name is not limited thereto.

[0117] In some embodiments, the first network function 1031 may include a combination of one or more network functions to implement service and / or connection management functions; for example, the first network function may include: a first type of first network function, or a second type of first network function, or a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function, etc. Optionally, the first type of first network function is used to manage sessions, etc., for example, the first type of first network function may be SMF, etc. Optionally, the second type of first network function is used to manage services and / or connections, for example, the second type of first network function may be CMF, etc.

[0118] In some embodiments, the second network function 1032 may be a network service function (NSF) or a network function in the core network other than the first network function, the third network function, the fourth network function, the fifth network function, and the sixth network function.

[0119] In some embodiments, the second network function 1032 is used to provide network services, support the execution or operation of network services, and / or provide network service management, etc., and the name is not limited thereto.

[0120] In some embodiments, the third network function 1033 and the sixth network function 1036 may each include one of the following: User Plane Function (UPF), Network Service Data Processing Function (NSDPF), Network Service Data Proxying (NSDP), and any function that has a network service data processing function or a network service data proxying function.

[0121] In some embodiments, both the third network function 1033 and the sixth network function 1036 may include anchor points (APs), etc.

[0122] In some embodiments, the third network function 1033 and the sixth network function 1036 are both used in the core network for user plane data processing, network service data processing and / or network service data proxy, etc., and their names are not limited thereto.

[0123] In some embodiments, the sixth network function 1036 is the same as the third network function 1033.

[0124] In some embodiments, the sixth network function 1036 is associated with the third network function 1033.

[0125] Optionally, the association between the sixth network function 1036 and the third network function 1033 can mean that the sixth network function 1036 is a newly added network function when the third network function 1033 is present. For example, if the third network function 1033 is the first AP, the sixth network function 1036 is the second AP; the first AP is connected to the terminal, the second AP is connected to the second network function, and the first AP is connected to the second AP.

[0126] Optionally, the association between the sixth network function 1036 and the third network function 1033 can mean that the sixth network function 1036 is a redirected network function of the third network function 1033. For example, the third network function 1033 is the network function before redirection; the sixth network function 1036 is the network function after redirection. If the sixth network function 1036 is a redirected network function of the third network function 1033, one transmission path can be: second network function – third network function – sixth network function – terminal; another transmission path can be: second network function – sixth network function – third network function – terminal; or it can also be: the transmission path before redirection is: second network function – third network function – terminal, and the transmission path after redirection is: second network function – sixth network function – terminal.

[0127] In some embodiments, the fourth network function 1034 may include one of the following: Unified Data Management (UDM), Unified Data Repository (UDR), Policy Control function (PCF), and Network Exposure Function (NEF).

[0128] In some embodiments, the fourth network function 1034 is used for storing and / or managing network data, for policy control, and / or for network function opening, etc., and the name is not limited thereto.

[0129] In some embodiments, the fifth network function 1035 may include an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0130] In some embodiments, the fifth network function 1035 is used for device registration, access management, mobility management and / or security management, etc., and the name is not limited thereto.

[0131] In some embodiments, when the third network function 1033 (e.g., AP) is a network function on a user plane or data plane connection, the corresponding user plane or data plane connection may or may not pass through a user plane function (UPF). For example, the corresponding user plane or data plane connection may be: access network device – user plane function – third network function, or access network device – third network function.

[0132] In some embodiments, when the fifth network function 1035 (e.g., AMF) is a network function connected to the control plane, the corresponding control plane connection can be: access network device – fifth network function – other network functions of the core network (e.g., the first network function, etc.). For example, other network functions of the core network (e.g., the first network function, etc.) can be directly connected to the fifth network function, or other network functions of the core network (e.g., the first network function, etc.) can be indirectly connected to the fifth network function. Alternatively, the connection between the access network device and other network functions of the core network may not go through the fifth network function; for example, the corresponding connection relationship can be: access network device – other network functions of the core network (e.g., the first network function, etc.). When other network functions of the core network (e.g., the first network function, etc.) are directly connected to the fifth network function, the corresponding connection relationship can be: access network device – fifth network function – other network functions of the core network (e.g., the first network function, etc.). When other network functions of the core network (such as the first network function, etc.) are indirectly connected to the fifth network function, there are also other network functions connected between the fifth network function and the other network functions of the core network (such as the first network function, etc.). For example, the corresponding connection relationship can be: access network device – fifth network function – short message network function – other network functions of the core network (such as the first network function, etc.). Here, other network functions of the core network can be network functions in the core network other than the fifth network function (such as AMF) and the first network function (such as SMF and / or CMF). In other embodiments, other network functions of the core network can also be UDM or NSF, etc., which are not limited here. The connection relationship between other network functions of the core network and the fifth network function, whether directly or indirectly connected, is not limited to the above description. The above description is only an example, as long as it enables other network functions of the core network to be directly or indirectly connected to the fifth network function.

[0133] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0134] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1 are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1, or may include other main bodies outside of FIG1. ​​The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. Each main body may be physical or virtual. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection can be in any way, it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection, it can be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0135] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G New Radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New Radio Access (NX), Future generation Radio Access (FX), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0136] In some embodiments, an increasing number of application services that require data processing within the communication system are supported, such as on terminals, in the core network, and on some network functions of the access network, and support is not limited to supporting at least one of the following services:

[0137] Sensing services. Sensing is the use of radio frequency signals to acquire information about the environment and / or the characteristics of objects in the environment (e.g., shape, size, orientation, speed, position, distance, or relative motion between objects).

[0138] Integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) services. ISAC involves the simultaneous use of radio frequency (RF) signals for sensing and communication. This integration of sensing and communication can improve spectrum efficiency, reduce latency, and / or enhance the reliability of various applications. ISAC is particularly suitable for at least one of the following: mobile operators, UE vendors, automotive vendors, and users, as it can significantly enhance the overall user experience, improve network efficiency, and / or generate new business opportunities.

[0139] Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) services. The convergence of communication networks and AI technologies is leveraging AI / ML to achieve intelligence in the core network and air interface through closed-loop processes such as data collection, ML model training, analysis and inference, and consumer data analysis.

[0140] Ranging / Sidelink Positioning service. Ranging refers to determining at least one of the following via the PC5 interface: the distance between two or more UEs, the orientation of one UE (i.e., the target UE) relative to another UE (i.e., the reference UE), and / or relative positioning. Sidelink positioning uses PC5 to locate the UE.

[0141] For example, the reference UE is a UE that determines a reference plane and reference orientation in ranging and / or lateral walkway-based positioning. The target UE is a UE whose distance, orientation, and / or position are measured compared to the reference plane, reference orientation, and / or position of the reference UE in ranging and / or lateral walkway-based positioning.

[0142] For example, ranging / sidewalking link positioning may include the following steps: measuring the absolute position between two UEs, or between one UE and multiple UEs, or between one or more positioned UEs; calculating the result (e.g., at the location server UE, or at the LMF, or at both); and making the ranging / sidewalking link positioning result available to the UE or the server (or a third-party application server).

[0143] Enhanced Location Service (eLCS) / Location Services. UE positioning can be supported by RAT-related positioning methods, which rely on, for example, RAT measurements obtained by the target UE and / or measurements of RAT signals transmitted by the target UE obtained by the access network. UE positioning can also be supported by RAT-independent positioning methods, which may rely on non-RAT measurements and / or other information obtained by the UE.

[0144] For example, the entire procedure of eLCS / location includes: measuring the absolute position between the UE and the base station; calculating the result (e.g., on the UE or in the LMF); and making it available to the UE or a third-party server (or a third-party application server).

[0145] With the emergence of more and more application services requiring data processing within telecommunications systems, solutions supporting user plane or data plane-based network services are needed to provide lower complexity and better scalability for executing new services. This allows for the transfer of terminal and network interaction processing, which previously relied on the control plane, to the user plane or data plane, and / or any application service supporting data processing within the telecommunications system. The interaction of service signaling between the terminal and network, and / or the interaction of user data or payload data, is implemented through the user plane or data plane. Data packets from the UE terminate at the anchor point, which packages the data sent from the core network to the UE. The anchor point's address information is sent to the UE. The UE does not see the address information of Network Service Functionalities (NSFs); the anchor point processes and sends the data exchanged between the UE and the NSFs.

[0146] In some embodiments, the UE can be a terminal, or the terminal can be a UE.

[0147] Figure 2 is an interactive schematic diagram illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 2, this embodiment of the present disclosure relates to an information processing method used in a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0148] In this embodiment, the third network function (or sixth network function) serves as the anchor point for the terminal to connect to the network via the user plane or data plane. The connection between the terminal and the third network function is an end-to-end user plane or data plane connection, meaning the connection terminates at both ends of the connection. Downlink information exchange between the terminal and core network devices (such as the second network function) terminates at the third network function. For example, after receiving downlink information from the second network function, the third network function processes the downlink information and encapsulates and packages it according to the end-to-end transmission protocol between the terminal and the third network function before sending it to the terminal; thus, from the terminal's perspective, it is unaware of the address information of the second network function (i.e., the address information of the second network function in the core network is not exposed to the terminal). Similarly, uplink information transmission packets from the terminal also terminate at the third network function; for example, the third network function unpacks the end-to-end transmission packets between the terminal and the second network function; the third network function can then send the uplink information to the second network function based on the processing. The third network function and the second network function can exchange information (e.g., uplink and downlink information of services) via the user plane, data plane, or control plane. The data plane can be an enhancement of the user plane or a part of the network independent of the control plane and user plane. In this embodiment, the user plane or data plane can process user data for a specified service (e.g., a specified network service), or it can process specific signaling and / or control information. A terminal connecting to the network via the user plane or data plane can individually or simultaneously support one or more services.

[0149] In this embodiment of the disclosure, retrieval can also be acquisition, which may include: querying for information that already exists. Acquisition may also include: generating information that does not exist or acquiring information that does not exist. For example, the second network function retrieving the twelfth piece of information may mean: the twelfth piece of information already exists, and the first network function queries to obtain the twelfth piece of information. For example, the first network function acquiring the twelfth piece of information may mean: the twelfth piece of information already exists, and the first network function queries to obtain the twelfth piece of information; or, the twelfth piece of information does not exist, and the first network function generates the twelfth piece of information or acquires the twelfth piece of information from other network functions.

[0150] Step S2101: The first device sends the tenth information to the second network function.

[0151] In some embodiments, the second network function receives tenth information sent by the first device.

[0152] Optionally, the tenth information is used to request information for transmitting services. For example, the tenth information is used to request transmission services between the second network function and the terminal.

[0153] Optionally, the tenth message is used to trigger the service. After the second network function receives the tenth message, it can determine that the service has been triggered.

[0154] Optionally, a service being triggered may refer to: signaling and / or data requiring interaction with the service; or, the execution of the service.

[0155] For example, the service can be any service in the previous embodiments, or the service can be at least one of the following, including but not limited to: sensing service, positioning service, ranging / SL positioning service, AI service, ML service, AI / ML service, ISAC service, and environmental IoT service, etc.

[0156] For example, a service can be at least one of the following: any service that can interact through the user plane or the data plane, any service that is transferred from control plane processing to user plane processing, and any service that is transferred from control plane processing to data plane processing.

[0157] For example, the service can be a terminal service, or the service can include terminal services or non-terminal services. Here, non-terminal services can refer to services that are suitable for all terminals, services that are suitable for the telecommunications architecture, or services that are suitable for the communication system.

[0158] For example, the service can be a network service. The service can be at least one of the following: user plane-based service, data plane-based service.

[0159] For example, the information of a service may include at least one of the following: upstream information of the service and downstream information of the service.

[0160] For example, the uplink information of a service may include at least one of the following: uplink signaling of the service and uplink data of the service; the downlink information of a service may include at least one of the following: downlink signaling of the service and downlink data of the service.

[0161] Optionally, the name of the tenth piece of information is not limited; for example, the tenth piece of information can be business trigger information, etc.; the first piece of information can be business information, etc.

[0162] In some alternative embodiments, the second network function determines that it needs to connect to the terminal. Optionally, the second network function determines that a connection needs to be established between the second network function and the terminal.

[0163] Optionally, the second network function determines the information that needs to be exchanged with the terminal for services, which may include at least one of the following: service information needs to be sent to the terminal, or service information needs to be obtained from the terminal. That is, in this embodiment of the disclosure, the second network function needs to send information about the triggered service to the terminal, and / or the terminal needs to send information about the triggered service to the second network function; then a connection (or transmission channel) needs to be established between the second network function and the terminal.

[0164] In some alternative embodiments, the second network function determines that it cannot connect to the terminal. Alternatively, the second network function determines that there is no connection between it and the terminal.

[0165] Optionally, determining that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal includes at least one of the following: service information cannot be transmitted to the terminal, service information cannot be obtained from the terminal, or a connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established.

[0166] Optionally, the failure to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: the failure to establish a connection between the second network function and the anchor point, the failure to establish a connection between the anchor point and the terminal, or the failure to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal. The anchor point refers to a network function in the core network used to connect the terminal; the anchor point is a relay node for interaction between the second network function and the terminal. Here, the connection between the second network function and the anchor point can be replaced by a first connection; the connection between the anchor point and the terminal can be replaced by a second connection, wherein the anchor point can be replaced by a third network function and / or a sixth network function. During the maintenance (establishment, modification) of the connection between the terminal and the network, if multiple anchor points are involved, connections between the anchor points are also required to ensure that the second network function can connect to the terminal. Here, the anchor point can also be replaced by a relay node.

[0167] Optionally, the first connection may be a connection between a second network function and a third network function. For example, the first connection may include at least one of the following: a user plane connection between the second network function and the third network function, a control plane connection between the second network function and the third network function, and a data plane connection between the second network function and the third network function.

[0168] Optionally, the second connection can be a connection between a third network function and the terminal. For example, the second connection may include at least one of the following: a user plane connection between the third network function and the terminal, and a data plane connection between the third network function and the terminal. Here, if the portion of the connection between the second network function and the terminal that connects to the terminal is a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal, then the second connection can also be replaced by a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; here, the second connection can be replaced by one of the following: a user plane connection between the sixth network function and the terminal, and a data plane connection between the sixth network function and the terminal. When the third network function and the sixth network function are different, and both the third network function and the sixth network function exist, during the connection maintenance (establishment, modification) process between the terminal and the network, the connection from the terminal to the second network includes the first connection, the second connection, and the connection between the third network and the sixth network.

[0169] Currently, the second network function side is unaware of how it connects to the terminal. It is unaware whether it connects to the terminal via a third, sixth, or other network function; it only needs to ensure that the second network function is not connected or that a transmission channel is connected to the terminal for data transmission. However, the first network function side can determine which network function the second network function connects to the terminal through.

[0170] Optionally, the connections involved in this disclosure embodiment (e.g., the first connection, the second connection, the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal, the third connection, the fourth connection, etc.) can all be transmission channels; the transmission channel can refer to a connection-oriented transmission channel or a connectionless transmission channel. For example, the first connection, the second connection, and the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal can all include: a connection-oriented transmission channel or a connectionless transmission channel. For example, the transmission channel can be replaced by a transmission path; a connection-oriented transmission channel can refer to a connection-oriented transmission channel; a connectionless transmission channel can refer to a non-connection-oriented transmission channel. The connection establishment process differs for different connection-oriented transmission protocols.

[0171] For example, for a connectionless transmission channel, connection establishment is performed after obtaining the peer's address information and completing the configuration at both ends; no explicit connection establishment operation is required. For a connection-oriented transmission channel, connection establishment is performed after obtaining the peer's address information. This address information must be usable by the transport layer; if it is not transport layer address information, it can be mapped or converted to transport layer address information.

[0172] In some alternative embodiments, the second network function determines that it cannot connect to the terminal based on the twelfth information obtained from the fourth network function.

[0173] Optionally, the second network function sends the fifteenth information to the fourth network function, and the fifteenth information is used to obtain the twelfth information; the fourth network function sends the twelfth information to the second network function.

[0174] Optionally, the fifteenth information can be used to obtain the twelfth information stored in the fourth network function.

[0175] Optionally, the fifteenth information can be used to retrieve the twelfth information to determine whether there is a connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0176] Optionally, the twelfth piece of information may include multiple connection-related information.

[0177] Optionally, the twelfth information may not contain information related to the first connection, or the twelfth information may not contain information related to the connection between the second network function and the terminal. For example, the twelfth information may not contain any of the following: a first connection identifier indicating the connection between the second network function and the terminal, an identifier of a third network function that serves the terminal or the second network function or the triggered service, an identifier of a first network function that manages the third network function, etc.

[0178] For example, the second network function determines that it cannot connect to the terminal or that the first connection has not been established based on the fact that the twelfth information has not been obtained or has not been obtained.

[0179] For example, the second network function determines, based on the twelfth information, that the third network function used to establish the first connection is not determined or the third network function for the triggered service is not determined, and thus determines that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal.

[0180] Optionally, the names of the twelfth and fifteenth information messages are not limited; for example, the twelfth information message can be UE connection information, etc.; the fifteenth information message can be UE connection request information.

[0181] In some alternative embodiments, the second network function determines that it cannot connect to the terminal based on the local eleventh information.

[0182] Optionally, the eleventh information is at least partially the same as the twelfth information, or the eleventh information is different from the thirteenth information.

[0183] Optionally, the eleventh information is information stored in the second network function. For example, the eleventh information may be obtained from the fourth network function or other network functions and stored in the second network function.

[0184] Optionally, the eleventh information may include multiple connection-related information.

[0185] Optionally, the eleventh message may not contain information related to the first connection or the terminal connection, or the twelfth message may not contain information related to the connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0186] Optionally, the embodiment in which the second network function determines that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal based on the eleventh information is similar to the embodiment in which the second network function determines that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal based on the twelfth information.

[0187] Optionally, the name of the eleventh message is not limited; it may be, for example, NSF local information or NSF connection information.

[0188] In some embodiments, terms such as “send,” “transmit,” “report,” “distribute,” “transfer,” “bidirectional transmission,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably.

[0189] In some embodiments, “get,” “obtain,” “receive,” “transmit,” “send and / or receive” can be used interchangeably and can be interpreted as receiving from other entities, obtaining from protocols, obtaining from higher layers, obtaining through self-processing, or autonomously implementing, among other meanings.

[0190] In some embodiments, the names of information, etc., are not limited to the names described in the embodiments. Terms such as "information", "message", "signal", "signaling", "report", "configuration", "indication", "instruction", "command", "channel", "parameter", "domain", "field", "symbol", "bit", and "data" can be used interchangeably.

[0191] In some embodiments, terms such as "certain", "preset", "specified", "default", "set", "indicated", "a certain", "any", and "first" can be used interchangeably. "Certain A", "preset A", "specified A", "default A", "set A", "indicated A", "a certain A", "any A", and "first A" can be interpreted as A pre-defined in a protocol or the like, or as A obtained through setting, configuration, or instruction, or as specific A, specified A, a certain A, any A, or first A, but are not limited thereto.

[0192] In some embodiments, the determination or judgment can be made by a value represented by 1 bit (0 or 1), or by a true or false value (boolean), or by a comparison of numerical values ​​(e.g., a comparison with a predetermined value), but is not limited thereto.

[0193] In step S2102, the second network function determines the first network function. Optionally, the second network function selects the first network function.

[0194] In some embodiments, after the second network function receives the tenth information sent by the first device, it determines the first network function.

[0195] In some embodiments, if the second network function receives the tenth information sent by the first device and determines that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal, then the first network function is determined.

[0196] In some embodiments, if the second network function receives the tenth information sent by the first device and determines that it needs to interact with the terminal for service information, and the second network function cannot connect to the terminal, then the first network function is determined.

[0197] In some embodiments, the second network function determines the first network function based on the determination that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal. Here, the second network function may also determine the service trigger itself and determine the first network function when it is determined that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal; or, the second network function may determine the first network function itself when it is determined that the second network function cannot connect to the terminal.

[0198] Optionally, if the second network function determines that it cannot connect to the terminal, it needs to trigger the first network function to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal or request the first network function to determine how to implement the interaction service between the second network function and the terminal. In order to perform the interaction between the second network function and the first network function, the first network function needs to be determined. The first network function can perform the relevant operations for the second network function to connect to the terminal.

[0199] In some embodiments, the second network function determines the first network function based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal, the services supported by the second network function, the service area where the first network function is located, the services supported by the first network function, the load supported by the first network function, the energy information used by the first network function, and the local policy of the first network function. Of course, in other embodiments, the second network function may also select a first network function from at least one candidate first network function as the currently serving first network function based on other information. Since the second network function has not yet established a connection with the terminal, the location of the terminal can be obtained by the second network function through other channels, such as the location of the terminal obtained from the first device or other network functions, or the stored location of the terminal. The energy information used by the first network function may include the type of energy used by the first network function and / or the energy consumption of the first network function.

[0200] Step S2103: The second network function sends the first information to the first network function.

[0201] In some embodiments, the first network function receives first information sent by the second network function.

[0202] Optionally, the first information is used by the first network function to perform related operations for the second network function to connect to the terminal; the first information is used by the first network function, after being received, to determine whether to establish a first connection or, after establishing the first connection, to establish a second connection. Here, the first information can also be used by the first network function, after being received, to determine whether to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal, or to determine whether to establish a first connection and a second connection.

[0203] Optionally, the first information is used to request information for transmitting or interacting with services; the first information is used, after being received by the first network function, for the first network function to determine whether to establish a first connection and, after establishing the first connection, to establish a second connection. For example, the first information is used to request information for interacting with services between the second network function and the terminal. Here, the first information can also be used, after being received by the first network function, for the first network function to determine whether to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal, or to determine whether to establish a first connection and a second connection. For example, the first information is used to request information for transmitting or interacting with services between the terminal and the second network function.

[0204] Optionally, the first information is used to request the establishment of a second network function connection to the terminal or to request the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal. For example, the first information is used to request the establishment of a first connection, and then to establish a second connection after the first connection is established. Alternatively, the first information is used to establish a second connection after the first network function has established the first connection.

[0205] Optionally, the first information is used to request at least one of the following: establishing a connection between a second network function and a relay node (e.g., a third network function), and a connection between the relay node (e.g., a third network function or a sixth network function) and the terminal. Here, the relay node can also be an anchor point.

[0206] Optionally, the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal. Here, whether the first information is used to request the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal, or to request the transmission or interaction of service information between the terminal and the second network function, the first information must be usable for establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal. The first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal can mean: the first information is used to request the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal, or the first information is used to request the transmission or interaction of service information. Here, the first information used to request the transmission or interaction of service information can indicate that a connection needs to be established between the second network function and the terminal; therefore, the first information used to request the transmission or interaction of service information can also be considered as one type of information used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0207] Optionally, the first information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function, identifier of the second network function, identifier of the terminal, first indication information, second indication information, service information, and first protocol indication.

[0208] For example, the first address information and the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth address information mentioned below can all be any information used to represent an address; for example, the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth address information can include, but are not limited to, one of the following: port address information, IP address information, MAC address information, and fully qualified domain name (FQDN). For example, the port address information can be a port number. For example, the IP address information can include one of the following: Internet Protocol version 4 (IPv4) address information and Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6) address information.

[0209] For example, a second network function may correspond to one or more first address information; an identifier of a second network function may correspond to one or more first address information.

[0210] For example, the first address information is the address information of the second network function corresponding to the first connection. For example, the first address information is used to establish the first connection.

[0211] For example, the first address information is the address information of the second network function corresponding to the second network function connecting to the terminal. For example, if the first network function determines that establishing the second connection requires establishing a first connection before establishing a second connection, then the first address information is used to establish the first connection.

[0212] For example, the first information may include first address information or may not include first address information. When the first information includes first address information, the first address information of the second network function may be assigned by the first network function.

[0213] For example, the first indication information is used to indicate information that needs to be transmitted. For instance, the first indication information is indication information for transmitting services between the terminal and the second network function.

[0214] For example, the second instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0215] For example, the first indication information can be used to indicate the information of the service transmitted between the terminal and the second network function. Here, the information of the service indicated in the first indication information may be the same as or different from the information of the service included in the first information. For example, the information of the service indicated in the first indication information may include the uplink information and / or downlink information of the service in the previous embodiments; the information of the service included in the first information may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: service data, service type, and service information type. The service type refers to what type of service it is, such as a location service or a sensing service or any type of service in the previous embodiments; the service information type indicates the type of service information, such as whether the service information is data or signaling. In the embodiments of this disclosure, when the second network function sends service information to the first network function, it indicates a request for the first network function to determine the transmission channel for the second network function to interact with the terminal on the service information, and the first network function can determine to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0216] For example, the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection. For instance, the protocol supported or used by the first connection can be any transport protocol; for example, it can be Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), User Datagram Protocol (UDP), Quick UDP Internet Connection (QUIC), or Multipath QUIC (MPQUIC), etc.

[0217] For example, the first information may include one or more of the first instruction information, the second instruction information, and business information.

[0218] Optionally, the identifiers of the second network function, the terminal, the first indication information, the second indication information, the first protocol indication, and the identifiers of the third network function, the first network function, the data network, the sixth network function, the first connection identifier, the fifth connection identifier, the third indication information, the fourth indication information, the fifth indication information, the sixth indication information, the seventh indication information, the second protocol indication, and the third protocol indication can all be one or more fields or one or more bits. These fields or bits can be characters or strings, and strings can be one or more characters, such as letters, numbers, and / or symbols.

[0219] For example, the first instruction information and the second instruction information can be different fields in the first information; or, the first instruction information or the second instruction information can be different values ​​of the same field in the first information.

[0220] Optionally, the names of the first information, the identifier of the second network function, the identifier of the terminal, the first indication information, the second indication information, and the first protocol indication are not limited. For example, the name of the first information can be connection establishment request information, etc.; the identifier of the second network function can be NSF ID, etc.; the identifier of the terminal can be UE ID, etc.; and the second indication information can be connection establishment request indication, etc.

[0221] In some alternative embodiments, after receiving the first information, the first network function performs the relevant operations of the second network function to connect to the terminal.

[0222] Optionally, the operation related to connecting the second network function to the terminal is performed, including at least one of the following: performing the operation related to establishing the first connection; performing the operation related to establishing the second connection.

[0223] Optionally, the first network function performing the operations related to establishing the first connection includes at least one of the following: determining a third network function, determining second information of the third network function, and establishing the first connection. Optionally, the first network function performing the operations related to establishing the first connection may further include: sending fourth information to a fourth network function. For example, the first network function performing the operations related to establishing the first connection may include step S2104 and / or step S2105. Optionally, the first network function performing the operations related to establishing the first connection may further include step S2106.

[0224] Optionally, the first network function performing the relevant operations for establishing the second connection includes at least one of the following: determining the sixth network function and establishing a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal. Establishing the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal may also refer to establishing the second connection. Optionally, the first network function performing the relevant operations for establishing the second connection may further include at least one of the following: sending fifth information to the terminal, receiving thirteenth information sent by the terminal, and sending ninth information to the fourth network function. For example, the first network function performing the relevant operations for establishing the second connection may include step S2109 and / or step S2110. Optionally, the first network function performing the relevant operations for establishing the second connection may further include step S2107, step S2108, and / or step S2111.

[0225] Optionally, at least one of the steps (i.e., at least one of steps S2106, S2111, S2107, and S2108) in which the first network function sends the fourth information to the fourth network function, the first network function sends the ninth information to the fourth network function, the first network function sends the fifth information to the terminal or through the fifth network function, and the terminal sends the thirteenth information to the first network function may be included in the relevant operation of the first network function performing the connection of the second network function to the terminal, or may not be included in the relevant operation of the first network function performing the connection of the second network function to the terminal.

[0226] Optionally, the first network function performs operations related to establishing a first connection, and performs operations related to establishing a second connection after performing operations related to establishing the first connection.

[0227] Optionally, the operation to establish a second connection is performed using information related to the operation to establish a first connection. For example, the information related to establishing the first connection may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: an identifier of a first network function, an identifier of a third network function, and second information about the third network function. In this embodiment, the information used to perform the operation to establish a second connection may also include information other than the information related to establishing the first connection, such as the terminal's first address information and the third information about the second network function.

[0228] Optionally, information related to the operation of establishing the first connection can be used to perform operations related to establishing the second connection.

[0229] In some optional embodiments, after receiving first information sent by the second network function, the first network function establishes a connection between the second network function and the terminal; wherein, the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, which is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, which is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection. Here, the at least some information associated with the first connection used to establish the second connection may refer to: establishing the second connection using relevant information related to the operation of the first connection. For example, establishing the second connection may use the information involved in steps S2104, S2105, and / or S2106, etc. For example, the at least some information associated with the first connection used to establish the second connection may refer to at least one of the following: the first network function used to establish the second connection may be the first network function used when establishing the first connection or a network function associated with the first network function used to establish the first connection; the sixth network function used to establish the second connection may be the third network function used when establishing the first connection or a network function associated with the third network function.

[0230] Optionally, at least some of the information associated with the first connection may include at least one of the following: an identifier of the first network function, an identifier of the third network function, and second information of the third network function.

[0231] Optionally, the first network function establishing a connection between the second network function and the terminal may include: establishing a first connection, and establishing a second connection after establishing the first connection.

[0232] Optionally, before the first network function establishes the first connection, it may further include at least one of the following: determining a third network function and second information of the determined third network function; after the first network function establishes the first connection, it may further include: sending fourth information to a fourth network function.

[0233] Optionally, before the first network function establishes the second connection, it may further include at least one of the following: determining a third network function, determining second information of the third network function, establishing a first connection, sending fourth information to a fourth network function, and sending fifth information to the terminal; after the first network function establishes the second connection, it may further include: sending ninth information to the fourth network function.

[0234] In step S2104, the first network function performs one of the following: determining the third network function, or determining the second information of the third network function.

[0235] In some embodiments, a first network function determines a third network function. Optionally, the first network function selects a third network function.

[0236] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the third network function based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal (first location), the service area where the third network function is located, the services supported by the third network function, the load supported by the third network function, the energy information used by the third network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the third network function, the local policy of the third network function, and the subscription information of the terminal.

[0237] Optionally, the first network function may also determine the third network function based on at least one of the following and the above information (e.g., the location of the terminal, the service area where the third network function is located, the services supported by the third network function, the load supported by the third network function, the energy information used by the third network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the third network function, the local policy of the third network function, and at least one of the terminal's subscription information): the location of the second network function, the service area where the second network function is located, the services supported by the second network function, the load supported by the second network function, the energy information used by the second network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the second network function, and the local policy of the second network function.

[0238] For example, the first location is the terminal's previous location; for instance, the first location is the terminal's historical location. Since the first network function has not yet interacted with the terminal when the first connection is not established, the historical location of the terminal is stored by the first network function or obtained from other network functions.

[0239] For example, the service area where the third network function is located can be a list of cells or a list of areas. For instance, the service area is the range that the third network function can connect to, such as the range of terminals that can connect.

[0240] For example, the services supported by the third network function can be replaced by at least one of the following: whether the third network function supports serving as an anchor point, whether the third network function supports the forwarding of service information, and whether the third network function supports a protocol for forwarding service information. For example, the protocol for forwarding service information can be a predetermined protocol for forwarding data packets to the anchor point (e.g., the third network function), etc.

[0241] For example, the energy information used by the third network function may include at least one of the following: the type of energy used by the third network function and the energy consumption of the third network function.

[0242] For example, energy types may include traditional energy or new energy, and may further include specific information about various energy types, such as the proportion of different energy types and the total amount of different energy types. For example, energy types may include at least one of the following: wind energy, electricity, hydropower, solar energy, coal, oil, natural gas, bioenergy, and nuclear energy.

[0243] For example, energy consumption information may include energy consumption level or energy consumption per unit time. For instance, the first transmission performance information is used to indicate the transmission performance of the service provided by the third network function.

[0244] For example, the transmission performance of the service provided by the third network function can be the transmission performance of at least a portion of the transmission path. This transmission path can be the transmission path between the terminal and the third network function, and / or the transmission path between the second network function and the NSF. Transmission performance can refer to factors such as transmission latency and / or packet loss rate of the transmitted service information.

[0245] For example, a local policy for a third network function can be used to indicate anchor point selection information.

[0246] For example, the terminal's subscription information may include at least one of the following: information that the terminal supports access to a specified data network, and information about the transmission channel between the terminal and the core network.

[0247] Optionally, if the first network function determines that the terminal is in the first area, then the third network function serving the first area can be selected as the third network function for establishing the first connection.

[0248] Optionally, the first network function selects a third network function whose load is greater than or equal to a first predetermined load as the third network function for establishing the first connection. For example, the first predetermined load is 70%, 80%, or 90% of the maximum load of the third network function, etc.

[0249] Optionally, the first third network function uses petroleum energy, and the second third network function uses wind energy; the first network function is based on the principle of prioritizing the use of new energy sources, and the second third network function is selected as the third network function for establishing the first connection.

[0250] Optionally, the first third network function supports a second-level energy consumption level, and the second third network function supports a first-level energy consumption level. The energy consumption of the second-level energy consumption level per unit time is higher than that of the first-level energy consumption level per unit time. The first network function determines the second third network function as the third network function for establishing the first connection.

[0251] For example, the location of the second network function can be deduced from the first address information of the second network function or sent separately to the first network function in the first information.

[0252] For example, the service area where the second network function is located can be a list of cells or a list of areas. For instance, the service area is the range that the second network function can connect to, such as the range of terminals that can connect. For example, if a first third network function exists in the service area where the second network function is located, that first third network function can be identified as the third network function used to establish the first connection.

[0253] For example, the first network function may identify a third network function that is the same as the service supported by the second network function as the third network function for the first connection.

[0254] For example, the energy information used by the second network function may include at least one of the following: the type of energy used by the second network function and the energy consumption of the second network function. For instance, the first network function identifies a third network function that uses the same type of energy as the second network function as the first network function for establishing the first connection.

[0255] For example, the transmission performance of the service provided by the second network function can be the transmission performance of at least a portion of the transmission path. This transmission path can be the transmission path between the second network function and the third network function (anchor point). Transmission performance can refer to: transmission latency and / or packet loss rate of the information transmitted in the service, etc.

[0256] The above-described embodiments for determining the third network function are merely examples. The implementation of determining the third network function by the first network function in this disclosure is not limited to these. It is sufficient to select a third network function as an anchor point or to establish a first connection.

[0257] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the second information of the third network function.

[0258] Optionally, the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, second address information of the third network function, and a first protocol indication.

[0259] For example, a third network function may correspond to one or more second address information; an identifier of a third network function may correspond to one or more third address information.

[0260] For example, the second address information is the address information of the third network function corresponding to the first connection. For example, the second address information is used to establish the first connection.

[0261] Optionally, the names of the second information and the identifier of the third network function are not limited; for example, the second information can be information of the third network function or AP information, etc.; the identifier of the third network function can be AP ID, etc.

[0262] In some embodiments, the first network function allocates at least a portion of the second information. Alternatively, the first network function determines a portion of the second information.

[0263] In some embodiments, a first network function obtains at least a portion of the second information from a third network function. Here, the at least portion of the second information is determined by the third network function. For example, after determining the third network function, the first network function interacts with the third network function to receive at least a portion of the second information sent by the third network function. For example, before receiving the second information sent by the third network function, the first network function also sends a request for the second information to the third network function.

[0264] In some embodiments, the first network function may obtain some of the second information from the third network function, and the first network function may also allocate additional second information itself. For example, if the first network function cannot allocate the second address information of the third network function, it may obtain the second address information of the third network function from the third network function.

[0265] Step S2105: The first network function, the second network function, or the third network function establishes the first connection.

[0266] In some embodiments, a first network function establishes a first connection.

[0267] Optionally, the first network function acquires the second and third information; the first network function establishes a first connection based on the second and third information.

[0268] Optionally, the first network function may allocate at least a portion of the second information or obtain at least a portion of the second information from the third network function. For example, the first network function may obtain the second address information of the third network function.

[0269] Optionally, the first network function may assign an instruction portion of the third information or obtain at least a portion of the third information from the second network function. When the first network function obtains the third information from the second network function, the third information may be sent as part of the first information, or the third information may be sent separately by the second network function.

[0270] Optionally, the third information may include at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function, identifier of the second network function, and first protocol indication.

[0271] Optionally, the name of the third information is not limited; it may be, for example, information about the second network function or information about the NSF.

[0272] In some embodiments, the second network function establishes the first connection.

[0273] Optionally, the second network function acquires the second information; based on the second information, the second network function establishes the first connection.

[0274] Optionally, the second network function receives second information sent by the first network function, and the second information is used by the second network function to establish the first connection.

[0275] In some embodiments, a third network function establishes a first connection.

[0276] Optionally, the third network function acquires third information; based on the third information, the third network function establishes a first connection.

[0277] Optionally, the third network function receives third information sent by the first network function, and the third information is used by the third network function to establish a first connection. In some optional embodiments, the first network function establishes a third connection between the first network function and the third network function.

[0278] Optionally, the third connection may include one of the following: a control plane connection between the first network function and the third network function, a user plane connection between the first network function and the third network function, or a data plane connection between the first network function and the third network function. Thus, the first network function can interact with the third network function to exchange third information, etc., based on this connection.

[0279] Step S2106: The first network function sends the fourth information to the fourth network function.

[0280] In some embodiments, the fourth network function receives fourth information sent by the first network function.

[0281] Optionally, the fourth information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the second network function, the identifier of the terminal, the identifier of the third network function, the identifier of the first network function, the identifier of the data network, the first address information of the second network function, the second address information of the third network function, the third indication information, and the fourth indication information.

[0282] For example, the identifier of the first network function may include an identifier of a first type of network function and / or an identifier of a second type of first network function. For instance, the identifier of the first type of network function may be an SMF ID. The identifier of the second type of network function may be a CMF ID.

[0283] For example, the data network may include a designated data network or an undesignated data network. The data network may be a Data Network Name (DNN) and / or Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI); the identifier of the data network may be used to indicate the dedicated DNN or S-NSSAI corresponding to the connection between the terminal and the network, or the identifier of the data network may be used to indicate the DNN or S-NSSAI corresponding to the connection between the terminal and the network and other connections, or the identifier of the data network may be used to indicate the corresponding data network where the second network function is located.

[0284] For example, the established first connection can be represented by the dedicated DNN or S-NSSAI, for instance, by the identifier of the data network.

[0285] For example, the third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established.

[0286] For example, the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the second connection has not yet been established.

[0287] Optionally, the names of the fourth information, the identifier of the first network function, the identifier of the data network, the third indication information, and the fourth indication information are not limited. For example, the fourth information can be UE connection management information, or it can indicate the connection management information of the UE connecting to the second network function; the identifier of the first network function can be CMF ID or SMF ID, etc.; and the third indication information can be a connection establishment indication, etc.

[0288] In some alternative embodiments, the fourth network function stores fourth information.

[0289] For example, the fourth information may be stored separately in the fourth network function.

[0290] For example, the fourth information may exist in the UE context within the fourth network function.

[0291] For example, the fourth information may exist in the UE's connection management context in the fourth network function.

[0292] Step S2107: The first network function sends the fifth information to the terminal or sends it to the terminal through the fifth network function.

[0293] In some embodiments, the first network function sends fifth information to the terminal.

[0294] In some embodiments, the terminal receives fifth information sent by the first network function.

[0295] In some embodiments, the first network function sends the fifth information to the terminal through the access network device. Optionally, the first network function sends the fifth information to the access network device, and the access network device sends the fifth information to the terminal.

[0296] In some embodiments, the terminal receives fifth information sent by a first network function through an access network device. Optionally, the terminal receives fifth information sent by the access network device, wherein the fifth information is obtained by the access network device from the first network function.

[0297] In some embodiments, the first network function sends fifth information to the terminal through the fifth network function.

[0298] Optionally, the first network function sends the fifth information to the fifth network function, and the fifth network function sends the fifth information to the terminal.

[0299] Optionally, the first network function sends the fifth information to the fifth network function, the fifth network function sends the fifth information to the access network device, and the access network device sends the fifth information to the terminal.

[0300] In some embodiments, the terminal receives fifth information sent by the first network function through the fifth network function.

[0301] Optionally, the terminal receives fifth information sent by the fifth network function, which is obtained by the fifth network function from the first network function.

[0302] Optionally, the terminal receives fifth information sent by the fifth network function, which is obtained by the access network device from the fifth network function and is obtained by the fifth network function from the first network function.

[0303] Optionally, the fifth piece of information can be used to trigger the terminal to establish a second connection.

[0304] Optionally, the fifth information includes at least one of the following: the sixth information, the second instruction information, the first connection identifier, the identifier of the data network, the fifth instruction information, and the sixth instruction information.

[0305] For example, the fifth instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network.

[0306] For example, the sixth instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the third network function.

[0307] For example, the sixth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, third address information of the third network function, and a second protocol indication.

[0308] For example, the sixth piece of information is used to establish a second connection.

[0309] For example, the second protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the second connection. The protocol supported or used by the second connection can be any transport protocol; for example, it can be TCP, UDP, QUIC protocol, or MPQUIC protocol, etc.

[0310] For example, the first connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0311] For example, the connection identifier may include a second connection identifier and a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier is used to indicate the first connection, and the third connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal. Here, the first connection and the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal can both be partial connections of the connection between the second network function and the terminal; and the second connection identifier corresponding to the first connection and the third connection identifier corresponding to the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal are different.

[0312] For example, the first connection identifier may include a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier is different from the third connection identifier. Here, if the second connection identifier is different from the third connection identifier, the first network function may also send only the third connection identifier to the terminal.

[0313] For example, the connection may include a fourth connection identifier, wherein the fourth connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal, and both the second connection identifier and the third connection identifier are fourth connection identifiers. Here, the first connection and the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal can both be partial connections between the second network function and the terminal; and the first connection and the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal both use the identifier of the connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0314] For example, the fifth information may not include the first connection identifier, or the fifth information may include the first connection identifier. When the fifth information does not include the first connection identifier, the first connection identifier may be assigned by the terminal.

[0315] Optionally, the names of the fifth information, the sixth information, the second protocol indication, and the first connection identifier are not limited; for example, the fifth information may be connection establishment trigger information, etc.; the sixth information may be information about the third network function or AP information, etc.

[0316] In some optional embodiments, before step S2107, the method further includes: a first network function determining the reachability of the terminal; if the terminal is determined to be reachable, sending fifth information to the terminal or through a fifth network function.

[0317] Optionally, the reachability of the terminal includes: the terminal is reachable, or the terminal is unreachable.

[0318] For example, terminal reachability can mean that the terminal is able to connect to the network. For instance, terminal reachability can mean that the terminal is able to connect to core network equipment or access network equipment. In the case of terminal reachability, it may also include situations where the terminal has a control plane connection to the network or not. For example, here, the control plane connection between the terminal and the network is a NAS connection. When the terminal has a control plane connection to the network, the first network can send fifth information to the terminal or through a fifth network function. When the terminal does not have a control plane connection to the network, a control plane connection needs to be established first, and then the fifth information can be sent to the terminal or through a fifth network function.

[0319] For example, "terminal unreachable" can mean that the terminal cannot connect to the network. For instance, "terminal unreachable" can mean that the terminal cannot connect to core network equipment or access network equipment.

[0320] Step S2108: The terminal sends the thirteenth message to the first network function.

[0321] In some embodiments, the first network function receives the thirteenth message sent by the terminal.

[0322] Optionally, the thirteenth message is used to request the terminal to connect to a network (e.g., the core network). For example, the thirteenth message is used to request the terminal to connect to a second network function.

[0323] Optionally, the thirteenth information may include at least one of the following: the terminal's fifth address information, the identifier of the second network function, the identifier of the terminal, the identifier of the data network, the second indication information, and the first connection identifier.

[0324] Optionally, the thirteenth message is at least partially the same as the eighth message.

[0325] Optionally, the name of the thirteenth message is not limited.

[0326] In some embodiments, the terminal sends thirteenth information to the access network device.

[0327] In some embodiments, the access network device receives the thirteenth message sent by the terminal.

[0328] In some embodiments, the access network device determines a first network function associated with the terminal's connection to the network. Optionally, the access network device determines a first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network. Here, the access network device is unaware of how the terminal connects to the network (core network), that is, the access network device is unaware of whether the terminal connects to the second network function through a third network function, a sixth network function, or other network functions.

[0329] Optionally, the access network device determines the first network function associated with the terminal's connection to the network by: obtaining fourteenth information from the fourth network function based on one of the following: the terminal's identifier, the data network's identifier, the first connection identifier, and the fifth connection identifier; and determining the first network function based on the fourteenth information.

[0330] For example, the fifth connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the terminal and the network.

[0331] For example, the fourteenth information may include at least one of the following: the identifier of the second network function, the identifier of the first network function, the first connection identifier, the identifier of the sixth network function, the first address information of the terminal, the first address information of the second network function, the second address information of the third network function, the third instruction information, and the fourth instruction information, etc.

[0332] For example, the fourteenth information includes at least one of the following stored corresponding to the identifier of the first network function: a terminal identifier, a data network identifier, a first connection identifier, and a fifth connection identifier. If the terminal identifier in the fourteenth information corresponds to the identifier of the first network function, the access network device can determine the first network function based on the terminal identifier and the fourteenth information. If the first connection identifier in the fourteenth information corresponds to the identifier of the first network function, the access network device can determine the first network function based on the first connection identifier and the fourteenth information.

[0333] For example, the name of the fourteenth piece of information is not limited; it may be, for example, UE connection management information or UE context information.

[0334] In some embodiments, the access network device sends a thirteenth message to the first network function.

[0335] In some embodiments, the first network function receives the thirteenth message sent by the access network device.

[0336] In some embodiments, the thirteenth information sent by the terminal to the access network device differs from the thirteenth information sent by the access network device to the first network function in terms of the included content and / or parameter form.

[0337] In some embodiments, the terminal sends a thirteenth message to the fifth network function.

[0338] In some embodiments, the fifth network function receives the thirteenth message sent by the terminal.

[0339] Optionally, the terminal sends the thirteenth information to the fifth network function through the access network device. For example, the terminal sends the thirteenth information to the access network device, and the access network device sends the thirteenth information to the fifth network function.

[0340] Optionally, the fifth network function receives the thirteenth information sent by the terminal through the access network device. For example, the fifth network function receives the thirteenth information sent by the access network device, which is obtained by the access network device from the terminal.

[0341] In some embodiments, the fifth network function determines the first network function associated with the terminal's connection to the network. Optionally, the access network device determines the first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network. Here, the fifth network function is unaware of how the terminal connects to the network (core network), that is, the fifth network function is unaware whether the terminal connects to the second network function through the third network function, the sixth network function, or other network functions.

[0342] Optionally, the fifth network function determines the first network function associated with the terminal's connection to the network by: obtaining fourteenth information from the fourth network function based on one of the following: the terminal's identifier, the data network's identifier, the first connection identifier, and the fifth connection identifier; and determining the first network function based on the fourteenth information.

[0343] Optionally, if the fifth network function or access network device does not retrieve the fourteenth information, or the fourteenth information does not include information about the first network function, or the fourteenth information includes the first network function but is not suitable, the fifth network function or access network device may also discover other suitable first network functions through other means, such as local configuration, or through the discovery mechanism provided by NRF.

[0344] In some embodiments, the fifth network function sends a thirteenth message to the first network function.

[0345] In some embodiments, the first network function receives the thirteenth message sent by the fifth network function.

[0346] In some embodiments, the thirteenth information sent by the terminal to the access network device, the thirteenth information sent by the access network device to the fifth network function, and the thirteenth information sent by the fifth network function to the first network function differ in the content and / or parameter form.

[0347] In some alternative embodiments, after the access network device or the fifth network function receives the thirteenth information sent by the terminal, it can also obtain the sixth network function from the fourth network function and send the identifier of the sixth network function to the first network function.

[0348] Step S2109: The first network function determines the sixth network function. Optionally, the first network function selects the sixth network function.

[0349] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on at least one of the following: first location information, first service area information, first capability information, first load information, first energy information, first transmission performance information, first local policy information, subscription information, and related information of the second network function. Optionally, the related information of the second network function includes at least one of the following: second location information, second service area information, second capability information, second load information, second energy information, second transmission performance information, and second local policy information, etc.

[0350] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on at least one of the aforementioned information, such as the location of the terminal (e.g., the second location), the service area where the third network function is located, the services supported by the third network function, the load supported by the third network function, the energy information used by the third network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the third network function, the local policy of the third network function, and the terminal's subscription information. The implementation of the first network function determining the sixth network function is similar to the implementation of the first network function determining the third network function based on this information; embodiments of the first network function determining the sixth network function can be found in embodiments of the first network function determining the third network function. Here, the location of the terminal used by the first network function to determine the sixth network function may be different from the location of the terminal used by the first network function to determine the third network function; the location of the terminal used by the first network function to determine the sixth network function can be used to indicate the current location of the terminal (e.g., the second location); when the first network function determines the sixth network function, the first network function may obtain the current location of the terminal in real time while interacting with the terminal to receive a request to establish a user plane or data plane connection between the terminal and the network.

[0351] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on the identifier of the third network function. Here, the sixth network is the third network function.

[0352] Optionally, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on the identifier of the third network function obtained from the fourth network function.

[0353] Optionally, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on the identifier of the stored third network function.

[0354] Optionally, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on the identifier of the third network function obtained from the terminal.

[0355] Optionally, the identifier of the third network function is stored in the fourth network function, the first network function, or the terminal after the first connection is established.

[0356] In some embodiments, a first network function determines a sixth network function based on at least one first identifier. Here, when there is no identifier for a third network function, the sixth network function can be determined based on the first identifier; the first identifier can indicate an anchor point associated with the third network function. Here, the first identifier can be used to indicate one of the following: a network function capable of serving a service, a network function capable of serving as an anchor point, or a network function capable of serving as a relay node between a second network function and a terminal; thus, the first network function can determine the sixth network function from at least one first identifier, which is the identifier of the sixth network function in the previous embodiments.

[0357] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on information from the second network function (e.g., the address information and / or the identifier of the second network function). Optionally, the information from the second network function may be carried in a connection establishment request sent by the terminal to the first network function (e.g., carried in the thirteenth information), or the information from the second network function may be stored in the fourth network function or the first network function.

[0358] Optionally, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on information from the second network function stored locally.

[0359] Optionally, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on information obtained from the second network function from the fourth network function. Here, after receiving the thirteenth information sent by the fifth network function or the access network device, the first network function can obtain the second network function from the fourth network function; or, the fifth network function or the access network device can obtain the information of the second network function from the fourth network function and carry the information of the second network function in the thirteenth information to send to the first network function, so that the first network function determines the sixth network function.

[0360] Optionally, the first network function determines the sixth network function based on information from the second network function obtained from the terminal. Here, when the terminal sends thirteenth information to the first network function, it may carry information from the second network function for the first network function to determine the sixth network function.

[0361] In some embodiments, the first network function may be combined with first location information, first service area information, first capability information, first load information, first energy information, first transmission performance information, first local policy information and subscription information, relevant information of the second network function, information of the second network function (such as the identifier of the second network function), and the identifier of the third network function (for example, using at least two of the information) to determine the sixth network function.

[0362] Optionally, the sixth network function is the same as the third network function; or, the sixth network function is associated with the third network function.

[0363] For example, the sixth network function is the same as the third network function, and the transmission path between the second network function and the terminal can be: second network function - third network function - terminal.

[0364] For example, the association between the sixth network function and the third network function can mean that: the sixth network function is the network function after redirection, and the third network function is the network function before redirection; or, the sixth network function is a network function added when the third network function exists; the transmission path between the second network function and the terminal can be: second network function - sixth network function - terminal or second network function - third network function - sixth network function - terminal.

[0365] In some alternative embodiments, when the sixth network function is associated with the third network function, the first network function, the third network function, or the sixth network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the third network function.

[0366] Step S2110: The first network function, the terminal, or the sixth network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0367] Optionally, the sixth network function is the same as the third network function, and the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal can refer to the connection between the third network function and the terminal (i.e., the second connection); the connection between the second network function and the terminal may include the first connection and the second connection.

[0368] Optionally, the sixth network function is associated with the third network function; the connection between the second network function and the terminal may include: a first connection, a connection between the third network function and the sixth network function, and a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0369] In some embodiments, the first network function sends a seventh message to the terminal. Optionally, the seventh message is used by the terminal to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0370] In some embodiments, the terminal receives seventh information sent by the first network function.

[0371] Optionally, the first network function sends the seventh information to the terminal through the access network device. For example, the first network function sends the seventh information to the access network device, and the access network device sends the seventh information to the terminal.

[0372] Optionally, the terminal receives the seventh information sent by the first network function through the access network device. For example, the terminal receives the seventh information sent by the access network device, which is obtained by the access network device from the first network function.

[0373] In some embodiments, the first network function sends the seventh information to the terminal through the fifth network function.

[0374] Optionally, the first network function sends the seventh information to the fifth network function, and the fifth network function sends the seventh information to the terminal.

[0375] Optionally, the first network function sends the seventh information to the fifth network function, the fifth network function sends the seventh information to the access network device, and the access network device sends the seventh information to the terminal.

[0376] In some embodiments, the terminal receives the seventh information sent by the first network function through the fifth network function.

[0377] Optionally, the terminal receives a seventh message sent by the fifth network function, the seventh message being obtained by the fifth network function from the first network function.

[0378] Optionally, the terminal receives the seventh information sent by the fifth network function, which is obtained by the access network device from the fifth network function and obtained by the fifth network function from the first network function.

[0379] Optionally, the seventh information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the sixth network function, the fourth address information of the sixth network function, and the third protocol indication.

[0380] For example, the third protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal. The protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal can be any transport protocol; for example, it can be TCP, UDP, QUIC protocol, or MPQUIC protocol, etc.

[0381] Optionally, some of the information in the seventh information may be allocated by the first network function, or the seventh information may be obtained by the first network function from the sixth network function.

[0382] Optionally, if the sixth network function is the same as the third network function, the seventh information is at least partially the same as the sixth information; if the sixth network function is different from the third network function, the seventh information is different from the sixth information.

[0383] Optionally, the names of the seventh information, the identifier of the sixth network function, and the indication of the third protocol are not limited. For example, the seventh information may be information about the sixth network function or information about the AP; the identifier of the sixth network function may be the AP ID, etc.

[0384] In some alternative embodiments, the first network function establishes a fourth connection between the first network function and the sixth network function.

[0385] Optionally, the fourth connection may include one of the following: a control plane connection between the first network function and the sixth network function, a user plane connection between the first network function and the sixth network function, or a data plane connection between the first network function and the sixth network function.

[0386] Optionally, the first network function interacts with the sixth network function through a fourth connection. For example, the first network function receives a seventh message sent by the sixth network function through the fourth connection; the first network function sends an eighth message to the sixth network function through the fourth connection; and so on.

[0387] In some optional embodiments, if a user plane function participates in the connection between the second network function and the terminal, the first network function sends sixteenth information to the access network device. The sixteenth information is used to establish a connection between the access device and the core network device. Optionally, the sixteenth information may include at least one of the following: address information of the user plane function, an identifier indicating the user plane function, and a first connection identifier, etc.

[0388] Optionally, the access network device, user plane function, or first network function establishes a connection between the access network device and the user plane function.

[0389] Optionally, the user plane function, the sixth network function, or the first network function establishes a connection between the user plane function and the sixth network function.

[0390] In some optional embodiments, if no user plane function is involved in the connection between the second network function and the terminal, the seventh information sent by the first network function to the access network device can be used to establish a connection between the access device and the core network device. Optionally, the access network device, the sixth network function, or the first network function can be used to establish a connection between the access network device and the sixth network function.

[0391] In some embodiments, the first network function sends an eighth message to the sixth network function. Optionally, the eighth message is used to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0392] In some embodiments, the sixth network function receives the eighth information sent by the first network function.

[0393] Optionally, the eighth information includes at least one of the following: the terminal's fifth address information, the terminal's identifier, the first connection identifier, and the first rule information.

[0394] For example, the first rule information is used to instruct the rules for the sixth network function to process data. For instance, the first rule information is used to instruct the rules for the third network function to process uplink and / or downlink information; such as how uplink and / or downlink information is forwarded.

[0395] Optionally, the name of the eighth message is not limited.

[0396] In some embodiments, the first network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0397] Optionally, the first network function acquires the seventh and eighth information; based on the seventh and eighth information, the first network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0398] Optionally, the first network function may send a seventh message to the terminal, which is used by the terminal to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0399] Optionally, the first network function may send eighth information to the sixth network function, the eighth information being used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0400] In one optional embodiment, the terminal receives the fifth information and, based on the fifth information, triggers the execution of operations related to establishing a second connection. For example, the terminal may receive the fifth information sent by a fifth network function through an access network device or a fifth network function.

[0401] Optionally, the terminal performs operations related to establishing a second connection, including at least one of the following: sending thirteenth information to the first network function, or establishing a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0402] In some embodiments, the terminal establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0403] Optionally, the terminal receives the seventh information; based on the seventh information, the terminal establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal. For example, the terminal can receive the seventh information sent by the fifth network function through an access network device or the fifth network function.

[0404] In some embodiments, the sixth network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0405] Optionally, the sixth network function receives the eighth information sent by the first network function; based on the eighth information, the sixth network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0406] Step S2111: The first network function sends the ninth information to the fourth network function.

[0407] In some embodiments, the fourth network function receives the ninth information sent by the first network function.

[0408] Optionally, the ninth information includes at least one of the following: the identifier of the second network function, the identifier of the terminal, the identifier of the sixth network function, the identifier of the first network function, the identifier of the data network, the third address information of the third network function or the fourth address information of the sixth network function, the first address information of the second network function, the third indication information, and the seventh indication information.

[0409] For example, the seventh indication information is used to indicate that a connection has been established between the terminal and the sixth network function.

[0410] For example, the name of the seventh instruction information is not limited, but it may be, for example, a connection establishment instruction.

[0411] In some alternative embodiments, the fourth network function stores the ninth information.

[0412] For example, the ninth information may be stored separately in the fourth network function.

[0413] For example, the ninth information may exist in the UE context within the fourth network function.

[0414] For example, the ninth information is used to update the ninth information stored in the fourth network function. For instance, the seventh indication information in the ninth information is used to replace the fourth indication information in the fourth network function.

[0415] Optionally, the ninth information may replace the fourth information stored in the fourth network function. For example, the ninth information may replace the fourth information that already exists in the fourth network function.

[0416] Optionally, the ninth information can update the terminal connection information stored in the fourth network function based on the fourth information. For example, after the first connection is established, the fourth network function stores the fourth information; after the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal is established, other information in the ninth information besides the fourth information can be added to the fourth information already stored in the fourth network function.

[0417] Optionally, the ninth information is stored independently of the fourth information as terminal connection information within the fourth network function. For example, after the first connection is established, the fourth network function stores the fourth information; after the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal is established, the ninth information can be stored within the fourth network function.

[0418] Step S2112: Information on the second network function, the sixth network function, and / or terminal interaction services.

[0419] In some embodiments, the sixth network function is the same as the third network function.

[0420] Optionally, the second network function sends downlink information of the service to the third network function based on the first connection; the third network function sends downlink information of the service to the terminal based on the second connection.

[0421] Optionally, the terminal sends downlink information of the service to the third network function through the second connection; the third network function sends downlink information of the service to the second network function.

[0422] In some embodiments, the sixth network function is different from but related to the third network function.

[0423] Optionally, the second network function sends downlink information of the service to the third network function based on the first connection; the third network function sends downlink information of the service to the sixth network function based on the connection between the third network function and the sixth network function; and the sixth network function sends downlink information of the service to the terminal through the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal.

[0424] Optionally, the terminal sends uplink information of the service to the sixth network function through the connection between the terminal and the sixth network function; the sixth network function sends downlink information of the service to the third network function through the connection between the sixth network function and the third network function; and the third network function sends downlink information of the service to the second network function.

[0425] In some embodiments, after receiving the downlink information of a service, the third network function or the sixth network function further processes the downlink information (e.g., packetization) and sends the processed downlink information to the terminal.

[0426] In some embodiments, after receiving the uplink information of the service, the third network function or the sixth network function further processes the uplink information (e.g., desealing and re-encapsulating), and sends the processed uplink information to the second network function.

[0427] The information processing method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2112. For example, step S2101 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2104 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2107 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2108 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S2110 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; and step S2111 can be implemented as an independent embodiment. Step S2112 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 and S2102 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102 and S2103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 to S2103 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2104 and S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 to S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102 to S2105 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; steps S2105 and S210... The combination of steps S2101 to S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102 to S2106 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2107 and S2109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2107, S2108, and S2109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2109 and S2110 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 to S2110 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102 to S2109 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; The combination of steps S2110 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2107 to S2111 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 to S2111 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102 to S2111 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2105 and S2110 and steps S2105 and S2112 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2102 to S2112 can be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S2101 to S2112 can be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0428] In some embodiments, steps S2101, S2106, S2108, and S2111 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0429] In some embodiments, steps S2101, S2106, S2107, S2108, S2109, and S2111 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0430] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0431] Figure 3 is an interactive schematic diagram of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, the present disclosure relates to an information processing method for a communication system 100, the method including one of the following steps:

[0432] Step S3101: The second network function sends first information to the first network function, wherein the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0433] The optional implementation of step S3101 can be found in the optional implementation of step S2103 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0434] In some embodiments, prior to step S3101, the method further includes: a second network function determining a first network function.

[0435] In some embodiments, before determining the first network function, the second network function further includes at least one of the following: the second network function receives tenth information sent by the first device, wherein the tenth information is used to request information for transmitting services between the terminal and the second network function; the second network function needs to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0436] In some embodiments, before determining the first network function, the second network function further includes one of the following: the second network function determines, based on local eleventh information, that a connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established; or the second network function determines, based on twelfth information obtained from the fourth network function, that a connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established.

[0437] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function; identifier of the second network function; identifier of the terminal; first indication information, wherein the first indication information is indication information for services transmitted between the terminal and the second network function; second indication information, wherein the second indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; service information, wherein the service information includes at least one of the following: service data, service type, and service information type; first protocol indication, wherein the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection.

[0438] In step S3102, the first network function establishes a connection between the second network function and the terminal. Optionally, the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, which is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, which is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection.

[0439] The optional implementations of step S3102 can be found in the optional implementations of steps S2104, S2105, S2106, S2107, S2108, S2109, S2110, and S2111 in Figure 2, as well as other related parts in the embodiments involved in Figure 2, which will not be repeated here.

[0440] In some embodiments, a first network function establishes a connection between a second network function and a terminal; wherein the connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: a first connection, wherein the first connection is a connection between the second network function and a third network function; a second connection, wherein the second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; and at least some information associated with the first connection process is used to establish the second connection.

[0441] In some embodiments, before the first network function establishes the first connection, the method further includes: determining the third network function based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal, the service area where the third network function is located, the services supported by the third network function, the load supported by the third network function, the energy information used by the third network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the third network function, the local policy of the third network function, and the subscription information of the terminal.

[0442] In some embodiments, before the first network function establishes the first connection, the method further includes: determining second information of the third network function, wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function; second address information of the third network function; and a first protocol indication, wherein the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection.

[0443] In some embodiments, the first network function determines the second information of the third network function, including one of the following: the first network function allocates at least a portion of the second information; the first network function obtains at least a portion of the second information from the third network function.

[0444] In some embodiments, establishing a first connection by a first network function includes one of the following: sending second information to a second network function, wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: second address information of a third network function, an identifier of the third network function, and a first protocol indication; the second information is used by the second network function to establish the first connection; sending third information to the third network function, wherein the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function, an identifier of the second network function, and a first protocol indication; the third information is used by the third network function to establish the first connection; and establishing the first connection based on the acquired second information and third information.

[0445] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, after establishing the first connection, the method further includes: sending fourth information to a fourth network function, wherein the fourth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of a second network function; an identifier of a terminal; an identifier of a third network function; an identifier of a first network function; an identifier of a data network; first address information of the second network function; second address information of the third network function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; and fourth indication information, wherein the fourth indication information is used to indicate that the second connection has not yet been established.

[0446] In some embodiments, before the first network function establishes the second connection, it further includes one of the following: sending fifth information to the terminal; sending fifth information to the terminal through the fifth network function; wherein the fifth information includes at least one of the following: sixth information, the sixth information including at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, third address information of the third network function, and a second protocol indication; the second protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the second connection; second indication information, the second indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; fifth indication information, the fifth indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; sixth indication information, the sixth indication information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the third network function; an identifier of the data network; a first connection identifier, the first connection identifier indicating the connection between the second network function and the terminal.

[0447] In some embodiments, the method includes: a terminal receiving fifth information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function, wherein the fifth information is related to a second connection; the second connection is a connection between the terminal and a third network function; and the terminal establishing the second connection based on the fifth information.

[0448] In some embodiments, before the first network function establishes the second connection, the method further includes: the first network function determining a sixth network function, wherein the sixth network function is the same as the third network function, or the sixth network function is associated with the third network function.

[0449] In some embodiments, the first network function performs the establishment of a second connection, including one of the following: the first network function sends seventh information to the terminal, or sends seventh information to the terminal through a fifth network function, wherein the seventh information is used to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; the first network function sends eighth information to the sixth network function, wherein the eighth information is used to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; the first network function establishes a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal based on the acquired seventh and eighth information; wherein the seventh information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the sixth network function; fourth address information of the sixth network function; and a third protocol indication, the third protocol indication being used to indicate the protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; the eighth information includes at least one of the following: fifth address information of the terminal; an identifier of the terminal; and first rule information, the first rule information being used to indicate the rules for the sixth network function to process data.

[0450] In some embodiments, the method further includes: a second network function receiving second information sent by a first network function; wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of a third network function, second address information of the third network function, and a first protocol indication; the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection; and the second network function establishes a first connection based on the second information.

[0451] In some embodiments, the first connection identifier includes one of the following: a second connection identifier and a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier is used to indicate a first connection and the third connection identifier is used to indicate a connection between a sixth network function and a terminal; a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier and the third connection identifier are different; a fourth connection identifier, wherein the fourth connection identifier is used to indicate a connection between a second network function and a terminal, and both the second connection identifier and the third connection identifier are fourth connection identifiers.

[0452] In some embodiments, after the first network function establishes the second connection, the method further includes: the first network function sending ninth information to the fourth network function, wherein the ninth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the second network function; an identifier of the terminal; an identifier of the sixth network function; an identifier of the first network function; an identifier of the data network; third address information of the third network function or fourth address information of the sixth network function; first address information of the second network function; third indication information, wherein the third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; and seventh indication information, wherein the seventh indication information is used to indicate that the connection between the terminal and the sixth network function has been established.

[0453] In some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: a second network function sends downlink information of a service to a third network function based on a first connection; wherein the downlink information of the service is used to send to a terminal; and the second network function receives uplink information of a service sent by the third network function based on the first connection; wherein the uplink information of the service is obtained from the terminal.

[0454] In some embodiments, the method further includes at least one of the following: the terminal sends uplink information of a service to the sixth network function through a connection between the terminal and the sixth network function; wherein the uplink information of the service is used to send to the second network function; the terminal receives downlink information of a service sent by the sixth network function through a connection between the terminal and the sixth network function, wherein the downlink information of the service is obtained from the second network function.

[0455] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0456] This disclosure relates to an information processing method that can support network services initiated by the NSF based on mobile termination. A connection between the UE and the network can be established between the UE and the anchor point (AP); before establishing a connection between the UE and the AP, a connection between the NSF and the AP is established. The connection between the UE and the AP, and the connection between the NSF and the AP, are both partial connections in the connection between the UE and the network.

[0457] The method for supporting NSF-initiated mobile-terminated network services, as disclosed in this embodiment, may include at least one of the following:

[0458] The NSF triggers the establishment of a connection between the NSF and the anchor point or between the NSF and the UE, or the NSF requests the CMF / SMF to trigger the establishment of a connection between the NSF and the anchor point or between the NSF and the UE;

[0459] The NSF / CMF / SMF sends trigger information for UE connection establishment to the terminal through control.

[0460] The UE initiates UE connection establishment using the service CMF / SMF / AP selected during the connection establishment between the NSF and the anchor point;

[0461] The NSF interacts with the UE via the anchor point, based on the connection between the UE and the anchor point, and the connection between the NSF and the anchor point.

[0462] In some embodiments, NSF / CMF / SMF can refer to NSF, SMF, or CMF; CMF / SMF / AP can refer to SMF, CMF, or AP; UE can be a terminal, or a terminal can be a UE. UE connection refers to the connection between the UE and the NSF; for example, UE connection can be a connection between the UE and the anchor point and / or a connection between the anchor point and the NS.

[0463] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 4, the present disclosure relates to an information processing method, which includes:

[0464] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the UE and the network support network services based on the user plane or data plane. The CMF (Network Function for Connection Management) and / or SMF (Network Function for Session Management) are network functions (NFs) in the core network; the CMF and / or SMF can be used to manage at least one of the following: manage the connection between the UE and the anchor point, and manage the connection between the anchor point and the NSF (Network Function for Providing Network Services). Signaling and / or data packets from the UE terminate at the anchor point, and the anchor point packages the data sent from the core network to the UE. The NFs in the core network that manage the connection between the UE and the anchor point and the NFs in the core network that manage the connection between the anchor point and the NSF can be the same or different. The NSF triggers connection establishment, and the connection between the NSF and the AP is established before the connection between the UE and the AP is established.

[0465] The address information of the NSF is not visible to the UE. Signaling and / or data exchanged between the UE and the NSF are transmitted by the anchor point. There can be one or more NSFs to support one or more network services. Each NSF can support one or more network services. The anchor point can be an independent NSDPF or UPF, or it can be a network service data proxy used for exchanging signaling and / or data between the UE and any NSF.

[0466] Step S4101: The consumer sends a Network Service Request to the NSF.

[0467] Optionally, the consumer can be a data service task consumer; for example, the consumer may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: application server, network function, application function, UE, access network equipment (e.g., RAN node), and core network equipment (e.g., NF).

[0468] In step S4102, the NSF obtains UE connection management information from the UDM / UDR / PCF.

[0469] Optionally, the NSF detects the UE's UE connections (e.g., user plane (UP) connection and / or data plane connection) from the NF (e.g., UDM / UDR / PCF) that stores UE connection management information. For example, if the UDM / UDR / PCF stores UE connection management information, the NSF uses the UDM / UDR / PCF to obtain the UE connection, such as by calling a service (e.g., Nudm_UECM_Get service) and finding that the UE does not have a connection for communication with the NSF, the NSF triggers UE connection establishment or requests the CMF / SMF to trigger UE connection establishment.

[0470] Step S4103, NSF selects CMF / SMF.

[0471] In step S4104, the NSF sends a connection establishment request to the CMF / SMF or requests to transmit or interact with the UE for service information.

[0472] Optionally, the NSF sends a connection establishment request to the CMF / SMF to request the establishment of a connection between the anchor point and the NSF, or between the NSF and the UE. NSF address information may optionally be included in the request. For the SBI architecture, the connection establishment request sent by the NSF to the CMF / SMF is implemented by calling a connection establishment service, such as calling the Nsmf_CNConnection_Create or Ncmf_CNConnection_Create service operation to establish a connection between the anchor point and the NSF. Alternatively, the NSF may request the establishment of a connection between the NSF and the UE, while the CMF / SMF decides whether to establish connections between the anchor point and the NSF, or between the anchor point and the UE.

[0473] Optionally, the NSF sends a request to the CMF / SMF to request the transmission or interaction of service information with the UE. The CMF / SMF decides whether to establish a connection between the NSF and the UE, for example, by establishing connections between the anchor and the NSF, and between the anchor and the UE respectively.

[0474] Step S4105, CMF / SMF selects anchor points.

[0475] Optionally, the CMF / SMF determines which anchor point to select to establish the connection between the NSF and the AP. The CMF / SMF may select the anchor point based on at least one of the following: UE location, service area of ​​the anchor point, services supported by the anchor point, load supported by the anchor point, energy information of the anchor point, local policy of the anchor point, UE subscription information, and NSF information. For example, the CMF / SMF may obtain the corresponding UE subscription information from the UDM.

[0476] Optionally, the anchor point is an independent NSDPF or UPF, or the anchor point can be a network service data broker used for signaling and / or data exchange between the UE and any NSF.

[0477] Step S4106: CMF / SMF obtains the address information of the anchor point.

[0478] Optionally, the anchor point's address information is used to establish a connection between the UE and the anchor point; the anchor point's address information includes one of the following: IP address, MAC address, port number, and FQDN. Optionally, the CMF / SMF can also obtain the protocol for transmitting data packets over the connection (e.g., the protocol supported or used by the first connection in the previous embodiment).

[0479] Optionally, the address information of the anchor point can be assigned by the anchor point or CMF / SMF.

[0480] Step S4107: The anchor point or CMF / SMF or NSF establishes a connection between the NSF and the anchor point.

[0481] Optionally, a connection is established between the NSF and the anchor; this connection can be a control plane connection, a user plane connection, or a data plane connection. The establishment of the connection between the NSF and the anchor can be initiated by the anchor, CMF / SMF, or NSF.

[0482] Optionally, if the transport protocol between the NSF and the anchor is connectionless, then there is no need to perform a transport layer connection establishment operation between the NSF and the anchor, and the NSF and the anchor can interact using the address information of the anchor and the address information of the NSF, respectively; if the connection between the NSF and the anchor is connection-oriented, then a transport layer connection establishment operation is required between the NSF and the anchor, and the transport layer connection operation between the NSF and the anchor is initiated by the NSF, the anchor, or the CMF / SMF.

[0483] Step S4107 may include step S4107A and / or step S4107B.

[0484] In step S4108, the CMF / SMF sends a response to the NSF.

[0485] Optionally, the CMF / SMF responds to the request received in step S4104 by sending a response to the NSF; the response includes information about the anchor point.

[0486] Optionally, after establishing the connection between the NSF and the anchor point in step S4107, the CMF / SMF can execute step S4108.

[0487] Step S4109: CMF / SMF performs UE connection registration.

[0488] Optionally, the CMF / SMF sends UE connection establishment information to the UDM / UDR / PCF; this may include the connection establishment status of the UE connecting to the data network where the NSF is located, indicating that the connection between the NSF and the anchor point has been established; the information indicating the connection establishment between the NSF and the anchor point is stored in the UE context of the UDM / UDR / PCF or any NF. The information indicating the UE connecting to the data network where the NSF is located may include the connection information between the NSF and the anchor point, and may also include the connection information between the UE and the anchor point in subsequent steps. The connection information between the NSF and the anchor point and the connection information between the UE and the anchor point in subsequent steps can also be managed separately as independent UE information. The information indicating the connection establishment between the NSF and the anchor point can be used for UE data management; this information indicating the connection establishment between the NSF and the anchor point may include at least one of the following: connection identifier, indication that the connection between the NSF and the anchor point has been established (e.g., the third indication information in the previous embodiment), CMF ID / SMF ID, AP ID, and AP address information.

[0489] Step S4110 may include at least one of the following: step S4110A, step S4110B, step S4110C, and step S4110D.

[0490] Optionally, the SMF / CMF can determine UE reachability before sending the trigger information to establish an UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point. For example, UE reachability can be retrieved and / or subscribed to from the AMF or any other NF managing UE reachability; UE reachability includes whether the UE is reachable or unreachable. In the case of UE reachability, it may also include whether the UE has a control plane connection to the network or not, such as a NAS connection between the UE and the network. When the UE has a control plane connection to the network, the SMF / CMF can send the trigger information to the UE to establish an UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point. When the UE does not have a control plane connection to the network, a control plane connection needs to be established first, for example, through a service request process triggered by the network, before sending the trigger information to the UE to establish an UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point.

[0491] In step S4110A, the CMF / SMF sends the trigger information for the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point to the AMF.

[0492] In step S4110B, the AMF sends the trigger information for the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point to the UE.

[0493] In step S4110C, the CMF / SMF sends triggering information for the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point to the access network equipment.

[0494] In step S4110D, the access network device sends triggering information for the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point to the terminal.

[0495] Optionally, the trigger information for establishing an UP / DP connection can be sent to the UE by the CMF / SMF via the AMF. For example, the trigger information for establishing an UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point can be sent to the UE through the process of receiving a Mobile Terminated (MT) Short Messaging Service (SMS). For instance, the CMF / SMF sends the corresponding information to the network function responsible for managing SMS messages, and then the network function, in cooperation with the AMF, uses the SMS sending process to send the corresponding information to the terminal. Alternatively, the sending of the trigger information for establishing an UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point can be implemented through a specific container of the downlink message sent by the AMF to the UE.

[0496] Optionally, step S4110 can be replaced by: the CMF / SMF sending the trigger information for the establishment of the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point to the UE without going through the AMF. For example, the CMF / SMF sends the trigger information for the establishment of the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point directly to the UE through the access network equipment.

[0497] Optionally, the CMF / SMF may interact with the UE via the AMF or without the AMF, and must be executed through the access network equipment.

[0498] Optionally, the triggering information for the UP / DP connection between the UE and the anchor point may include at least one of the following: the anchor point's address information, the core network's DNN / S-NSSAI, a connection identifier (e.g., the identifier identifying the connection between the UE and the AP and the identifier identifying the connection between the NSF and the AP can be the same or different), and an indication that the UE requests to establish a UP / DP connection with the core network. The request for the UE to establish a UP / DP connection with the core network can be an explicit indication or an implicit indication from the core network's anchor point address information or DNN / S-NSSAI.

[0499] Step S4111: UP / DP connection is established between UE and anchor point.

[0500] Optionally, the UE initiates an UP / DP connection establishment procedure to establish a connection between the UE and the anchor point. Step S4111 may include at least one of the following: step S4111A, step S4111B, and step S4111C.

[0501] Optionally, if the transport protocol between the UE and the anchor is connectionless, then it is not necessary to perform a transport layer connection establishment operation between the UE and the anchor, and the UE and the anchor can interact using the anchor's address information and the UE's address information, respectively; if the connection between the UE and the anchor is connection-oriented, then it is necessary to perform a transport layer connection establishment operation between the UE and the anchor, and the transport layer connection establishment operation between the UE and the anchor can be initiated by the UE, the anchor, or the CMF / SMF.

[0502] Step S4111A: The AMF or access network device determines the CMF / SMF.

[0503] Alternatively, the AMF or access network device may retrieve the CMF / SMF information stored in step S4109 instead of performing a CMF / SMF selection operation.

[0504] Optionally, the AMF or access network device can retrieve CMF / SMF information based on the UE ID and / or connection identifier and / or data network information corresponding to the UE connection. The connection identifier in step S4110 can be sent by the UE during the connection establishment process. This connection identifier can be included in the connection establishment trigger information sent to the UE in step S4110, or it can be assigned by the UE itself when initiating the connection establishment request.

[0505] If the AMF or access network device does not retrieve the CMF / SMF information stored in step S4109, or if the CMF / SMF information retrieved by the AMF or access network device in step S4109 is not suitable, the AMF can also discover and select other suitable CMF / SMF.

[0506] Step S4111B, CMF / SMF determines the anchor point.

[0507] Optionally, the anchor point selected and stored in step S4105 can be used to replace the anchor point selection. The CMF / SMF can retrieve the anchor point information from the CMF / SMF local or from the UDM based on the UE ID and / or connection identifier and / or the data network information corresponding to the UE connection, or it can obtain the anchor point information from the connection establishment request information received by the AMF or access network equipment.

[0508] Optionally, if anchor point redirection is required based on UE location and / or anchor point information and / or NSF information compared to selecting and storing the anchor point in step S4105, anchor point redirection can be triggered during or after UP / CP connection establishment.

[0509] Optionally, if, compared to the anchor point selected or stored in step S4105, information based on the UE location and / or anchor point and / or NSF information requires the insertion of a new anchor point based on the anchor point selected or stored in step S4105, the insertion of a new anchor point can be triggered during or after the UP / CP connection establishment.

[0510] In step S4111C, the CMF / SMF performs UE connection management registration or registration update.

[0511] Optionally, the CMF / SMF sends the information indicating UE connection establishment to the UDM / UDR / PCF; the information indicating UE connection establishment is stored in the UE context of the UDM / UDR / PCF or any NF. This UE connection information can be an update to the UE connection information in step S4109, a replacement of the UE connection information in step S4109, or information independent of the UE connection information in step S4109. This information indicating UE connection establishment can be used for UE data management; it can include at least one of the following: connection identifier, indication that a UE connection has been established (e.g., the third or fourth indication information in previous embodiments), CMF ID / SMFID, AP ID, AP address information, NSF address information, UE ID, NSF ID, and DNN / S-NSSAI, etc.

[0512] Step S4112: Exchange UL / DL signaling and / or data of network services between the UE and the anchor point.

[0513] Optionally, the anchor point sends at least one of the following to the UE: DL signaling and DL data of the network service; the UE sends at least one of the following to the anchor point: UL signaling and UL data of the network service.

[0514] Step S4113: The anchor point processes the UL / DL signaling and / or data of network services.

[0515] Optionally, for UL signaling and / or data, it is sent to the NSF supporting network services and / or the UE, and the DL signaling and / or data from the NSF supporting network services and / or the UE is repackaged and sent to the UE.

[0516] Step S4114: Exchange UL / DL signaling and / or data of network services between the anchor point and the NSF.

[0517] Optionally, the anchor sends at least one of the following to the NSF: UL signaling and UL data of the network service; the NSF sends at least one of the following to the anchor: DL signaling and DL data of the network service.

[0518] In some embodiments, the network service can be the service in the previous embodiments; the UE can be the terminal in the previous embodiments; the CMF / SMF can be the first network function in the previous embodiments; the NSF can be the second network function in the previous embodiments; the anchor point (AP) can be the third or sixth network function in the previous embodiments; the UDM / UDRPCF can be the fourth network function in the previous embodiments; the AMF can be the fifth network function in the previous embodiments; the connection between the NSF and the anchor point can be the first connection in the previous embodiments; the connection between the UE and the anchor point can be the second connection in the previous embodiments or the connection between the sixth network function and the UE.

[0519] The information processing method disclosed in this embodiment may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4114. For example, step S4101 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4103 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4105 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4106 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4107 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4109 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4110 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; step S4111 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; the combination of steps S4104 and S4105 and steps S4106 and S4107 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; steps S4110 and S4111 may be implemented as an independent embodiment; and the combination of steps S4101 to S4114 may be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0520] In some embodiments, steps S4102 to S4103, S4109, and S4113 may be optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments.

[0521] In some embodiments, the steps and their optional implementations in other embodiments described before or after this embodiment, as well as other related parts in the specification, can be referred to, and will not be repeated here.

[0522] This disclosure also proposes an apparatus (also referred to as a communication device, etc.) for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Furthermore, another apparatus is proposed that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by network devices (e.g., access network devices, core network functional nodes, core network devices (e.g., first network function, second network function, third network function, fourth network function, fifth network function, sixth network function, etc.) in any of the above methods.

[0523] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and the functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a Programmable Logic Device (PLD), such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), which can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0524] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. Furthermore, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), or a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU).

[0525] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first network function 5100 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5A, the first network function 5100 includes at least one of a first transceiver module 5101 and a first processing module 5102. In some embodiments, the first transceiver module 5101 is used to acquire first information. Optionally, the first transceiver module 5101 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (e.g., steps S2103, S2105, S2106, S2110 and / or S2111, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the first network function 5100 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the first processing module 5102 is used to determine a third network function. Optionally, the first processing module 5102 is used to execute at least one of the processing steps (such as steps S2104, S2105, S2109, and / or step S2110, but not limited thereto) performed by the first network function 5100 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0526] Figure 5B is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second network function 5200 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5B, the second network function 5200 includes at least one of a second transceiver module 5201 and a second processing module 5202. In some embodiments, the second transceiver module 5201 is used to transmit first information. Optionally, the second transceiver module 5201 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (e.g., steps S2101, S2103, and / or S2112, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the second network function 5200 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the second processing module 5202 is used to determine a first network function. Optionally, the second processing module 5202 is used to perform at least one of the processing steps (e.g., steps S2102 and / or S2105, etc., but not limited thereto) performed by the second network function 5200 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0527] Figure 5C is a schematic diagram of the structure of a terminal 5300 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5C, the terminal 5300 includes at least one of a third transceiver module 5301 and a third processing module 5302. In some embodiments, the third transceiver module 5301 is used to receive fifth information. Optionally, the third transceiver module 5301 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps (e.g., steps S2107 and / or S2112, but not limited thereto) performed by the terminal 5300 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the third processing module 5302 is used to establish a connection between the terminal and a sixth network function. Optionally, the third processing module 5302 is used to perform at least one of the processing steps (e.g., step S2110, but not limited thereto) performed by the terminal 5300 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0528] Figure 5D is a schematic diagram of the structure of the fifth network function 5400 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. As shown in Figure 5D, the fifth network function 5400 includes at least one of a fourth transceiver module 5401 and a fourth processing module 5402. In some embodiments, the fourth transceiver module 5301 is used to acquire thirteenth information. Optionally, the fourth transceiver module 5401 is used to perform at least one of the sending and / or receiving steps performed by the fifth network function 5400 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here. In some embodiments, the fourth processing module 5402 is used to establish a connection between the terminal and the sixth network function. Optionally, the fourth processing module 5402 is used to perform at least one of the processing steps performed by the fifth network function 5400 in any of the above methods, which will not be described in detail here.

[0529] In some embodiments, the transceiver module may include a transmitting module and / or a receiving module, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the transceiver module may be interchangeable with a transceiver. For example, the first transceiver module described above includes a first transmitting module and / or a first receiving module. For example, the second transceiver module described above includes a second transmitting module and / or a second receiving module.

[0530] In some embodiments, the processing module may be a single module or may include multiple sub-modules. Optionally, the multiple sub-modules may each perform all or part of the steps required by the processing module.

[0531] In some embodiments, the processing module can be replaced by the processor, and the transceiver module can be replaced by the transceiver.

[0532] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of the communication device 6100 proposed in an embodiment of this disclosure. The communication device 6100 can be a network device (e.g., an access network device (e.g., a base station), a core network device (e.g., a first network function, a second network function, a third network function, a fourth network function, a fifth network function, a sixth network function, etc.), a terminal (e.g., a user equipment), a chip, a chip system, or a processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above methods. The communication device 6100 can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0533] As shown in Figure 6A, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 includes one or more processors 6101. The processor 6101 may be a general-purpose processor or a special-purpose processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit. The baseband processor may be used to process communication protocols and communication data, and the central processing unit may be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. Optionally, the communication device 6100 is used to execute any of the above methods. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 6100 to execute any of the above methods.

[0534] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more transceivers 6102. When the communication device 6100 includes one or more transceivers 6102, the transceiver 6102 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above method (e.g., steps S2101, S2103, S2105, S2106, S2107, S2110, S2111 and / or step S2112, but not limited thereto), and the processor 6101 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S2102, S2104, S2105, S2109 and / or step S2110, but not limited thereto). In optional embodiments, the transceiver may include a receiver and / or a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated together. Optionally, terms such as transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, interface circuit, and interface can be used interchangeably; terms such as transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, and transmitting circuit can be used interchangeably; and terms such as receiver, receiving unit, receiver, and receiving circuit can be used interchangeably.

[0535] In some embodiments, the communication device 6100 further includes one or more memories 6103 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, one or more processors 6101 are used to invoke instructions stored in the memory 6103 to cause the communication device 6100 to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, all or part of the memory 6103 may also be located outside the communication device 6100. In an optional embodiment, the communication device 6100 may include one or more interface circuits 6104. Optionally, the interface circuit 6104 is connected to the memory 6103 and can be used to receive data and / or instructions from the memory 6103 or other devices, and can be used to send data and / or instructions to the memory 6103 or other devices. For example, the interface circuit 6104 can read data and / or instructions stored in the memory 6103 and send the data and / or instructions to the processor 6101.

[0536] The communication device 6100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 6100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 6100 may not be limited by FIG. 6A. The communication device may be a standalone device or may be part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection having one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data, programs and / or instructions; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0537] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of chip 6200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. For cases where the communication device 6100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of chip 6200 shown in Figure 6B, but it is not limited thereto.

[0538] Chip 6200 includes one or more processors 6201. Chip 6200 is used to perform any of the methods described above.

[0539] In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more interface circuits 6202. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, and transceiver pin can be used interchangeably. In some embodiments, chip 6200 further includes one or more memories 6203 for storing data and / or instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 6203 may be located outside of chip 6200. Optionally, interface circuit 6202 is connected to memory 6203, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to receive data and / or instructions from memory 6203 or other devices, and interface circuit 6202 can be used to send data and / or instructions to memory 6203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 6202 can read data and / or instructions stored in memory 6203 and send the data and / or instructions to processor 6201.

[0540] In some embodiments, the interface circuit 6202 performs at least one of the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method (e.g., steps S2101, S2103, S2105, S2106, S2107, S2110, S2111, and / or S2112, but not limited thereto). The interface circuit 6202 performing the communication steps such as sending and / or receiving in the above-described method refers, for example, to the interface circuit 6202 performing data and / or instruction interaction between the processor 6201, the chip 6200, the memory 6203, or the transceiver device. In some embodiments, the processor 6201 performs at least one of other steps (e.g., steps S2102, S2104, S2105, S2109, and / or S2110, but not limited thereto).

[0541] The modules and / or devices described in the various embodiments, such as virtual devices, physical devices, and chips, can be combined or separated arbitrarily as needed. Optionally, some or all steps can also be performed collaboratively by multiple modules and / or devices, which is not limited here.

[0542] This disclosure also proposes a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium may be a non-transitory storage medium, but not limited thereto; it may also be a temporary storage medium.

[0543] This disclosure also proposes a program product, including a program and / or instructions, which, when executed by a communication device, cause the communication device to perform any of the above methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product. Optionally, the program product is stored on the storage medium.

[0544] This disclosure also proposes a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above methods.

Claims

An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by the first network function, including: Receive first information sent by the second network function, the first information being used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; Establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: The first connection is a connection between the second network function and the third network function; The second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: The first address information of the second network function; The identifier of the second network function; The identifier of the terminal; First indication information, wherein the first indication information is indication information of the service transmitted between the terminal and the second network function; The second instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The information of the service includes at least one of the following: the data of the service, the type of the service, and the information type of the service; The first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before establishing the first connection, it also includes: The third network function is determined based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal, the service area where the third network function is located, the services supported by the third network function, the load supported by the third network function, the energy information used by the third network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the third network function, the local policy of the third network function, and the subscription information of the terminal. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, Before establishing the first connection, it also includes: The second information for determining the third network function includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the third network function; The second address information of the third network function; The first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The second information for determining the third network function includes one of the following: Allocate at least a portion of the second information; At least a portion of the second information is obtained from the third network function. The method according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, Establishing the first connection includes one of the following: Sending second information to the second network function, wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: second address information of the third network function, an identifier of the third network function, and a first protocol indication; the second information is used by the second network function to establish the first connection; Sending third information to the third network function, wherein the third information includes at least one of the following: first address information of the second network function, an identifier of the second network function, and a first protocol indication; the third information is used by the third network function to establish the first connection; Based on the acquired second information and the third information, the first connection is established. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, After establishing the first connection, the following is also included: Send a fourth message to a fourth network function, wherein the fourth message includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the second network function; The identifier of the terminal; The identifier of the third network function; The identifier of the first network function; Identification of data networks; The first address information of the second network function; The second address information of the third network function; The third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; The fourth indication information is used to indicate that the second connection has not yet been established. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Before establishing the second connection, one of the following is also included: Send the fifth message to the terminal; The fifth information is sent to the terminal through the fifth network function; The fifth piece of information includes at least one of the following: The sixth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, third address information of the third network function, and a second protocol indication; the second protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the second connection. The second instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The fifth instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; The sixth instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the third network function; Identification of data networks; A first connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Before establishing the second connection, the following is also included: A sixth network function is determined, wherein the sixth network function is the same as the third network function, or the sixth network function is associated with the third network function. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, Establishing the second connection includes one of the following: Sending a seventh message to the terminal, or sending a seventh message to the terminal through a fifth network function, wherein the seventh message is used to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; Send an eighth message to the sixth network function, wherein the eighth message is used to establish a connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; Based on the acquired seventh and eighth information, a connection is established between the sixth network function and the terminal; The seventh piece of information includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the sixth network function; The fourth address information of the sixth network function; And a third protocol indication, which indicates the protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; The eighth piece of information includes at least one of the following: The fifth address information of the terminal; The identifier of the terminal; The first connection identifier; And first rule information, which is used to indicate the rules for the sixth network function to process data. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 9, characterized in that, The first connection identifier includes one of the following: A second connection identifier and a third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier is used to indicate the first connection, and the third connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal; The third connection identifier, wherein the second connection identifier is different from the third connection identifier; The fourth connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal, and both the second connection identifier and the third connection identifier are the fourth connection identifier. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that, After establishing the second connection, the following is also included: Send a ninth message to the fourth network function, wherein the ninth message includes at least one of the following: The identifier of the second network function; The identifier of the terminal; The identifier for the sixth network function; The identifier of the first network function; Identification of data networks; The third address information of the third network function or the fourth address information of the sixth network function; The first address information of the second network function; The third indication information is used to indicate that the first connection has been established; The seventh indication information is used to indicate that a connection has been established between the terminal and the sixth network function. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management. The second network function is a network service function; The third or sixth network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and network function with network service data processing function or network service data proxy function. The fourth network function includes one of the following: unified data management function, unified data storage function, and network exposure function; The fifth network function is a network function used for access and / or mobility management. An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by the second network function, including: Send first information to the first network function, wherein the first information is used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: The first connection is a connection between the second network function and the third network function; The second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The first information includes at least one of the following: The first address information of the second network function; Identification of the second network function; Terminal identifier; First indication information, wherein the first indication information is indication information for the transmission of services between the terminal and the second network function; The second instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The information of the service includes at least one of the following: the data of the service, the type of the service, and the information type of the service; The first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection. The method according to claim 14 or 15 is characterized in that, Before sending the first information to the first network function, the method further includes: The first network function is determined based on at least one of the following: the location of the terminal, the service area where the first network function is located, the services supported by the first network function, the load supported by the first network function, the energy information used by the first network function, the transmission performance of the services provided by the first network function, and the local policy of the first network function. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, Before determining the first network function, at least one of the following is also included. ： The tenth message sent by the first device is received, wherein the tenth message is used to request the transmission of service information between the second network function and the terminal; It is determined that a connection needs to be established between the second network function and the terminal. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, Before determining the first network function, one of the following is also included: Based on the local eleventh piece of information, it is determined that the connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established; Based on the twelfth information obtained from the fourth network function, it is determined that the connection between the second network function and the terminal has not been established. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 18, characterized in that, The method further includes: The system receives second information sent by the first network function; wherein the second information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, second address information of the third network function, and a first protocol indication; the first protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the first connection. Based on the second information, the first connection is established. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of the following: Based on the first connection, downlink information of the service is sent to the third network function; wherein, the downlink information of the service is used to send to the terminal; Based on the first connection, uplink information of the service sent by the third network function is received; wherein, the uplink information of the service is obtained from the terminal. The method according to any one of claims 14 to 20, characterized in that, The first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management. The second network function is a network service function; The third network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and network function with network service data processing function or network service data proxy function. The fourth network function includes one of the following: unified data management function, unified data storage function, and network exposure function; The first device includes one of the following: application server, access network equipment, network function, application function, and client. An information processing method, characterized in that, Executed by the terminal, including: Receive fifth information sent by a first network function or a fifth network function, wherein the fifth information is related to a second connection; the second connection is a connection between the terminal and a third network function; Based on the fifth piece of information, the second connection is established. The method according to claim 22, characterized in that, The fifth piece of information includes at least one of the following: The sixth information includes at least one of the following: an identifier of the third network function, third address information of the third network function, and a second protocol indication; the second protocol indication is used to indicate the protocol supported or used by the second connection. The second instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The fifth instruction information is used to indicate the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; The sixth instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the third network function; Identification of data networks; A first connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal. The method according to claim 23, characterized in that, Establishing the second connection includes: Receive the seventh message sent by the first network function or the fifth network function; Based on the seventh information, a connection is established between the terminal and the sixth network function, wherein the sixth network function is the same as or related to the third network function; The seventh piece of information includes at least one of the following: The identifier for the sixth network function; The fourth address information of the sixth network function; And a third protocol indication, which is used to indicate the protocol supported or used for the connection between the sixth network function and the terminal. The method according to claim 24, characterized in that, The method further includes at least one of the following: Through the connection between the terminal and the sixth network function, uplink information of the service is sent to the sixth network function; wherein, the uplink information of the service is used to send to the second network function; Through the connection between the terminal and the sixth network function, downlink information of the service sent by the sixth network function is received, wherein the downlink information of the service is obtained from the second network function. The method according to any one of claims 22 to 25, characterized in that, The first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management. The second network function is the network service function; The third or sixth network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and network function with network service data processing function or network service data proxy function. The fifth network function is a network function used for access and / or mobility management. An information processing method, characterized in that, Devices that perform or access network functions under the fifth network function include: The thirteenth message sent by the receiving terminal is used to establish a connection between the terminal and the network. Determine a first network function associated with the connection between the terminal and the network; Send the thirteenth message to the first network function. The method according to claim 27, characterized in that, The first network function that determines the connection between the terminal and the network includes: The fourteenth information is obtained from the fourth network function based on at least one of the following: the identifier of the terminal, the identifier of the data network, the first connection identifier, and the fifth connection identifier; wherein the first connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the second network function and the terminal; and the fifth connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the terminal and the network. Based on the fourteenth information, the first network function is determined; wherein the fourteenth information includes at least one of the following stored corresponding to the identifier of the first network function: the identifier of the terminal, the identifier of the data network, the first connection identifier, and the fifth connection identifier. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 28, characterized in that, The thirteenth piece of information includes at least one of the following: The fifth address information of the terminal; Identification of the second network function; The identifier of the terminal; Identification of data networks; The seventh instruction information is used to instruct the establishment of a connection between the terminal and the network; The fifth connection identifier is used to indicate the connection between the terminal and the network. The method according to any one of claims 27 to 29, characterized in that, The first network function includes at least one of the following: a first type of first network function and a second type of first network function; the first type of first network function is a network function for session management; the second type of first network function is a network function for connection management. The second network function is the network service function; The third or sixth network function includes one of the following: user plane function, network service data processing function, network service data proxy, and network function with network service data processing function or network service data proxy function. The fifth network function is a network function used for access and / or mobility management. An information processing method, characterized in that, Performed by a communication system, the communication system comprising: a terminal, a first network function, and a second network function; the method comprising: The second network function sends a first message to the first network function, the first message being used to establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; Establish a connection between the second network function and the terminal; The connection between the second network function and the terminal includes at least one of the following: The first connection is a connection between the second network function and the third network function; The second connection is a connection between the third network function and the terminal; at least some information associated with the first connection is used to establish the second connection. A communication device, characterized in that, The communication device is used to perform the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, or claims 14 to 21, or claims 22 to 26, or claims 27 to 30. A communication system, characterized in that, include: The system comprises a first network function, a second network function, a terminal, and a fifth network function; wherein the first network function is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 1 to 13, the second network function is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 14 to 21, the terminal is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 22 to 26, and the fifth network function is configured to implement the information processing method of any one of claims 27 to 30. A storage medium storing instructions, characterized in that, When the instructions are executed on the communication device, the communication device performs the information processing method as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, or claims 14 to 21, or claims 22 to 26, or claims 27 to 30. A computer program product, comprising at least one of a program and instructions, characterized in that, When at least one of the programs or instructions is executed by a communication device, it implements the information processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 13, or claims 14 to 21, or claims 22 to 26, or claims 27 to 30.

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