WO2025209296A1 - Communication method, device and system - Google Patents

Abstract

A communication method, device and system, relating to the technical field of communications. The method comprises: receiving first information from a second core network element, the first information being used for indicating the priority of at least one first function; and determining a user plane network element, wherein the user plane network element is one of at least one candidate device, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of a device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device. According to the solution, by setting priorities for the functions, a first core network element can be prevented from selecting an inappropriate user plane function network element, thereby better selecting a user plane function network element.

Description

Communication method, device and system

This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on April 2, 2024, with application number 202410397424.X and application name “Communication Methods, Devices and Systems”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application.

Technical Field

The present application relates to the field of communication technology, and more particularly, to a communication method, device, and system.

Background Art

User plane functional elements (UEs) process user messages, such as forwarding, billing, and legal monitoring. They provide high-speed, efficient, and flexible data transmission services to terminal devices. Appropriate UEs can improve network service quality.

Therefore, how to better select user plane functional network elements is an urgent problem to be solved.

Summary of the Invention

The present application provides a communication method, device and system that can select a user plane functional network element that is more suitable for a session, thereby improving the quality of network service.

In a first aspect, a communication method is provided. The method provided in the first aspect may be performed by a first core network element. Unless otherwise specified, the first core network element in this application may refer to the first core network element itself (e.g., a session management element), a component within the first core network element (e.g., a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logical module or software capable of implementing all or part of the functions of the first core network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the first core network element as an example.

The method includes: receiving first information from a second core network network element, the first information being used to indicate a priority among at least one first function; and determining a user plane network element, wherein the user plane network element is one of at least one candidate device, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of a device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

The user plane network element may be a user plane function network element. The at least one candidate device may be at least one user plane function network element.

Through the above scheme, the priority of the functions possessed by the determined user plane network element is higher than the priority of the functions possessed by other candidate devices. Compared with the scheme of selecting user plane function network elements only by the number of functions possessed, the above scheme can avoid the first core network network element from selecting an unsuitable user plane function network element by setting priorities for functions, thereby better selecting user plane function network elements. For example, by setting priorities for functions according to the frequency of use, the above scheme can avoid the first core network network element from selecting a user plane function network element that has more functions but has a lower frequency of use of the functions it possesses. For another example, in the case where several candidate devices have the same number of functions, the above scheme can enable the first core network network element to make a reasonable selection among these candidate devices based on priority, avoiding the situation where no selection can be made or a random selection is made.

In some implementations, the method further includes: sending second information to a third core network element, where the second information is used to indicate the priority of the at least one first function.

Through the above solution, the first core network element can use the second information to inform the third core network element of the priority of the first function. The third core network element can make corresponding processing based on the information about the priority of the first function. For example, the third core network element may not discover user plane function elements that only have a lower priority for the first function. For another example, the third core network element may only discover user plane function elements that have a higher priority for the first function. Therefore, the above solution can improve the efficiency of the third core network element in discovering user plane function elements through the indication of the second information.

In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving third information from a third core network element, the third information being used to indicate information of the user plane network element, or information of the at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

Through the above solution, the third information can indicate only the selected user plane function network element. Alternatively, the third information can indicate multiple candidate user plane function network elements and the priority order of these candidate network elements. The above solution can help the first core network network element select the user plane function network element more quickly, thereby improving efficiency.

In some implementations, determining the user plane network element includes: determining the user plane network element based on the third information.

In some implementations, determining the user plane network element includes: determining the user plane network element based on the first information.

In some implementations, the method further includes: sending fourth information to the second core network element, where the fourth information is used to request the priority of the at least one first function.

In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving fifth information from the second core network element, where the fifth information is used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first functions and application information and/or service information.

Through the above solution, the fifth information can indicate the association between the first function and service information or application information. In this way, the first function can be a function with service or application granularity. The fifth information can assist the first core network element in selecting a user plane function network element. For example, if the first core network element wishes to select a user plane function network element with service or application granularity, the first core network element can determine the user plane function network element based on the fifth information, thereby further improving network service quality.

In a second aspect, a communication method is provided. The method provided in the second aspect may be performed by a second core network element. Unless otherwise specified, the second core network element in this application may refer to the second core network element itself (for example, a policy control element or a unified data management element), or a component in the second core network element (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the second core network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the second core network element as an example.

The method includes: generating first information, the first information being used to indicate the priority of at least one first function, wherein at least one candidate device includes a user plane network element, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device; and sending the first information to a first core network network element.

In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving fourth information from the first core network element, where the fourth information is used to request a priority of the at least one first function.

In some implementations, sending the first information to the first core network element includes: sending the first information to the first core network element in response to the fourth information.

In some implementations, the method further includes: sending fifth information to the first core network element, where the fifth information is used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first functions and application information and/or service information.

In some implementations, the method further includes determining a priority of one of the at least one first function based on at least one of application information, service information, or a service routing request.

In a third aspect, a communication method is provided. The method provided in the third aspect may be performed by a third core network element. Unless otherwise specified, the third core network element in this application may refer to the third core network element itself (for example, a network storage function element), or a component in the third core network element (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the third core network element. For ease of description, the following description uses the third core network element as an example.

The method includes: generating third information, the third information being used to indicate information of a user plane network element, or being used to indicate information of at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device, the user plane network element being one of the at least one candidate device; and sending the third information to the first core network network element.

In some implementations, the method further includes: receiving second information from the first core network network element, the second information being used to indicate a priority among the at least one first function, wherein the priority of one or more of the first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more of the first functions of the device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

In a fourth aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising a processing circuit (or processor) and an input/output interface (also referred to as an interface circuit), the input/output interface being used to input and/or output signals, the processing circuit being used to execute the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect, or the processing circuit being used to execute the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect.

In some implementations, the processing circuit is used to communicate with other devices through the interface circuit and execute the above-mentioned first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect, or execute the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect.

In a fifth aspect, a communication device is provided, which may include units, modules, or means for performing the functions of the communication device.

In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for executing the methods/operations/steps/actions described in the first aspect and any possible implementation of the first aspect. The modules, units, or means may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

In some implementations, the communication device may include a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The transceiver unit may be configured to receive first information from a second core network element, the first information being configured to indicate a priority among at least one first function. The processing unit may be configured to determine a user plane network element, wherein the user plane network element is one of at least one candidate device, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is further configured to send second information to a third core network element, where the second information is configured to indicate a priority of the at least one first function.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to receive third information from a third core network network element, where the third information is used to indicate information of the user plane network element, or to indicate information of at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

In some implementations, the processing unit is specifically configured to determine the user plane network element based on the third information.

In some implementations, the processing unit is specifically configured to determine the user plane network element based on the first information.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is further configured to send fourth information to the second core network element, where the fourth information is used to request a priority of the at least one first function.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is further used to receive fifth information from the second core network element, where the fifth information is used to indicate an association between one of the at least one first functions and application information and/or service information.

In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for executing the methods/operations/steps/actions described in the second aspect and any possible implementation of the second aspect. The modules, units, or means may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

In some implementations, the communication device may include a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The processing unit may be configured to generate first information indicating a priority among at least one first function, wherein at least one candidate device includes a user plane network element, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device. The transceiver unit may be configured to send the first information to the first core network network element.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is further configured to receive fourth information from the first core network element, where the fourth information is used to request a priority of the at least one first function.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is specifically configured to send the first information to the first core network element in response to the fourth information.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is further used to send fifth information to the first core network element, where the fifth information is used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first functions and application information and/or service information.

In some implementations, the processing unit is further configured to determine a priority of one of the at least one first function based on at least one of application information, service information, or a service routing request.

In some implementations, the communication device may include modules, units, or means for executing the methods/operations/steps/actions described in the third aspect and any possible implementation of the third aspect, and the modules, units, or means may be hardware circuits, software, or a combination of hardware circuits and software.

In some implementations, the communication device may include a transceiver unit and a processing unit. The processing unit may be configured to generate third information, the third information being used to indicate information about a user plane network element, or information indicating information about at least one candidate device and information indicating that the user plane network element is preferred over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device, the user plane network element being one of the at least one candidate device. The transceiver unit may be configured to send the third information to the first core network network element.

In some implementations, the transceiver unit is also used to receive second information from the first core network network element, and the second information is used to indicate the priority of the at least one first function, wherein the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of the device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

In a sixth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, on which a computer program or instruction is stored. When the computer program or the instruction is run on a computer, the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect are executed, or the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect are executed, or the third aspect and any possible method of the third aspect are executed.

In the seventh aspect, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program or instructions, which, when run on a computer, causes the first aspect and any possible method of the first aspect to be executed (or implemented), or causes the second aspect and any possible method of the second aspect to be executed (or implemented), or causes the third aspect and any possible method of the third aspect to be executed (or implemented).

In an eighth aspect, a communication device is provided, comprising a processor, configured to enable the device to execute any possible method of the first aspect, or any possible method of the second aspect, or any possible method of the third aspect, by executing a computer program (or computer executable instructions) stored in a memory, and/or through a logic circuit.

In one possible implementation, the device further includes a memory. In one possible implementation, the processor and the memory are integrated together. In another possible implementation, the memory is located outside the communication device. The processor may include one or more.

In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a communication interface, which is used for the communication device to communicate with other devices, such as sending or receiving data and/or signals. Exemplarily, the communication interface can be a transceiver, circuit, bus, module, or other type of communication interface.

In one implementation, the communication device of the fourth, fifth or eighth aspect may be a chip or a chip system.

In the ninth aspect, a chip is provided, comprising a processor for calling a computer program or computer instruction in a memory so that the processor executes any one of the implementation methods in the first aspect above, or so that the processor executes any one of the implementation methods in the second aspect above, or so that the processor executes any one of the implementation methods in the third aspect above.

In some implementations, the processor is coupled to the memory through an interface.

In the tenth aspect, a communication system is provided, including a first core network network element, a second core network network element and a third core network network element, the first core network network element is used to execute the above-mentioned first aspect and any possible implementation method of the first aspect, the second core network network element is used to execute the above-mentioned second aspect and any possible implementation method of the second aspect, and the third core network network element is used to execute the above-mentioned third aspect and any possible implementation method of the third aspect.

The description of the advantageous effects of any of the second to tenth aspects, etc., may refer to the description of the advantageous effects of the first aspect.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a schematic diagram of a network architecture of a communication system.

FIG2 is a schematic flow chart of a method for selecting a UPF.

FIG3 is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

FIG4 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

FIG5 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method provided in an embodiment of the present application.

FIG6 is a schematic block diagram of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present application.

FIG7 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device according to an embodiment of the present application.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The technical solution in this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

This application will present various aspects, embodiments, or features in the context of systems that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood and appreciated that the various systems may include devices, components, modules, etc. in addition to the illustrated devices, components, modules, etc., and/or may not include all and every device, component, module, etc. discussed in conjunction with the figures.

In the embodiments of the present application, words such as "exemplarily" and "for example" may be used to indicate examples, illustrations or descriptions, presenting concepts in a concrete way. Any embodiment or design described as an "example" in this application should not be interpreted as being more preferred or more advantageous than other embodiments or design. The business scenarios described in the embodiments of the present application are intended to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application. It is known to those skilled in the art that with the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of the present application are also applicable to similar technical problems.

References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" in this specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment is included in one or more embodiments of the present application. Thus, phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," and "in yet other embodiments" appearing in various places in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically stated. The terms "including," "comprising," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically stated.

The first, second, etc. descriptions appearing in the embodiments of the present application are, unless otherwise specified, only used for illustration and distinction of the description objects. There is no order, nor does it indicate any special limitation on the number in the embodiments of the present application, and cannot constitute any limitation on the embodiments of the present application.

In various embodiments of the present application, the size of the serial number of each process does not mean the order of execution. The execution order of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation on the implementation process of the embodiments of the present application.

It should be understood that the term "and/or" in this document simply describes an association between related objects, indicating that three possible relationships exist. For example, "A and/or B" can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone. Furthermore, the character "/" in this document generally indicates that the related objects are in an "or" relationship.

The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application can be applied to various communication systems, including but not limited to: fifth ^- generation (5G) mobile communication systems such as long-term evolution (LTE) systems and new radio (NR) systems, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) systems, enhanced machine-type communication (eMTC) systems, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) systems, ultra-high reliability and low latency communications (URLLC) systems, satellite communication systems, LTE-machine-to-machine (LTE-M) systems, or systems evolved after 5G such as ^sixth -generation (6G) mobile communication systems.

In the embodiment of the present application, the term "communication" may also be described as "data transmission", "signal transmission", "information transmission" or "transmission", etc. In the embodiment of the present application, transmission may include sending or receiving.

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the network architecture of a communication system. The network architecture includes at least one network function (NF). Exemplarily, the at least one NF may include: a network capability exposure network element, a network storage function network element, a network data analysis network element, an application function network element, a policy control network element, a unified data storage network element, a unified data management network element, an access and mobility management network element, a session management network element, a binding support function network element, a user plane function network element, and a data network (DN) connected to the operator's network. Terminal devices can send service data to the data network and receive service data from the data network through access network devices and user plane function network elements. Access network devices can communicate with the network management system.

A terminal device is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities, which can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld, wearable or vehicle-mounted; it can also be deployed on the water (such as ships, etc.); it can also be deployed in the air (for example, on airplanes, balloons and satellites, etc.). The terminal device can communicate with the core network via the radio access network (RAN) and exchange voice and/or data with the RAN. The terminal device can be a mobile phone, a tablet computer (Pad), a computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, a mobile internet device (MID), a wearable device, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device , wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving, wireless terminals in remote medical, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, wireless terminals in smart homes, drones, drone controllers, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the application scenarios. Terminal devices are sometimes also called user equipment (UE), mobile stations, and remote stations. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific technology, device form, and name adopted by the terminal devices.

Access network equipment can be a device in the network used to access terminal equipment to the wireless network. Access network equipment can be a node in the wireless access network, which can also be called a base station, or a radio access network (RAN) node (or device). For ease of description, RAN is sometimes used to refer to access network equipment below. Access network equipment can include evolved base stations (NodeB or eNB or e-NodeB, evolutionary Node B) in the long-term evolution (LTE) system or the evolved LTE system (LTE-Advanced, LTE-A), such as traditional macro base stations eNB and micro base stations eNB in heterogeneous network scenarios, or can also include next generation node B (gNB) in 5G or NR systems, or can also include radio network controller (RNC), node B (NB), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), etc. The present invention relates to a wireless communication network (such as a base station, BTS), a transmission reception point (TRP), a home base station (such as a home evolved NodeB, or a home Node B, HNB), a baseband unit (BBU), a baseband pool BBU pool, or a wireless fidelity (WiFi) access point (AP), etc., or may also include a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU) in a cloud radio access network (CloudRAN) system, which is not limited in the embodiments of the present application. In the separate deployment scenario where access network equipment includes CU and DU, CU supports protocols such as radio resource control (RRC), packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), and service data adaptation protocol (SDAP); DU mainly supports radio link control layer (RLC), media access control layer (MAC), and physical layer protocols.

A network capability exposure element (NE) can controllably expose some network functionality to applications. In 5G communication systems, a network capability exposure element may be a network exposure function (NEF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network capability exposure element may still be an NEF element or may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

The network storage function network element is mainly used to register, discover, and perform status detection on network elements, services provided by network elements, or network element functions. The network storage function network element can realize the automated management, selection, and scalability of network function services, and allow each network function to discover the services provided by other network functions. In the 5G communication system, the network storage function network element can be a network repository function (NRF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network storage function network element can still be an NRF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

The network data analysis network element can collect data from various NFs, application function network elements (through network capability exposure function network elements), terminal devices, network management, etc., and perform analysis and prediction. The network data analysis network element has data collection, training, analysis, and reasoning functions. After the network data analysis network element performs analysis and training based on relevant data, it can provide data analysis results to network functions, application function network elements, terminal devices or network management systems. The analysis results can assist the network in selecting service quality parameters for the service, or assist the network in executing traffic routing, or assist the network in selecting background data transmission strategies, etc. Network functions include policy control network elements, session management network elements, user plane function network elements, access and mobility management network elements, etc. In a 5G communication system, the network data analysis network element can be an NWDAF. In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the network data analysis network element can still be an NWDAF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

The application function network element can be used to convey the requirements of the application side to the network side. For example, the requirements may include quality of service (QoS) requirements or user status event subscriptions. The application function network element can provide service data of various applications to the control plane network elements of the operator's communication network, or obtain network data information and control information from the control plane network elements of the communication network. In the 5G communication system, the application function network element may be an application function (AF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the application function network element may still be an AF network element, or may have other names, which is not limited by this application. For example, the application function network element may also be called an application server or a service server. In addition, the application function network element may be deployed by the operator network or by a third party.

The policy control network element can be used to formulate and manage the policies of the entire network (such as the 5G network). The policy control network element may include a policy control function, a charging policy control function, etc. The policy control network element can generate and maintain QoS flow control policies, network slicing policies, mobility management policies, charging policies, UE access policies, etc. The policy control network element can dynamically generate and adjust policies based on the operator's business needs and network status, and send the policies to relevant network elements such as the access and mobility management network element, the session management network element, and the user plane function network element to guide the behavior of these relevant network elements. In addition, the policy control network element can also receive the service quality requirements of the application function network element and convert them into corresponding policies. In the 5G communication system, the policy control network element can be a policy control function (PCF). In future communication systems (such as the 6G communication system), the policy control network element can still be a PCF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

A unified data storage network element (UE) is primarily used to store structured data, including contract information, policy information, and network data or service data defined in a standard format. In 5G communication systems, the UE may be a unified data repository (UDR). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the UE may still be a UDR, or may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

The unified data management network element is mainly used to manage and store user data (or contract information) of terminal devices. For example, user identity information, authentication information, subscription information, policy information, etc. The unified data management network element can provide user data query and update services for other network elements. The unified data management network element can support functions such as user authentication, authorization and key management. In addition, the unified data management network element can update and synchronize user data according to the policy of the policy control network element. In the 5G communication system, the unified data management network element can be a unified data management (UDM). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the unified data management network element can still be a UDM network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited in this application.

The access and mobility management network element (AEMNE) is primarily used for terminal attachment and tracking area update processes in mobile networks. It can provide non-access stratum (NAS) messages, complete registration management, connection management, reachability management, track area list (TA list) allocation, legal monitoring, access authorization, authentication, and mobility management, and transparently route session management (SM) messages to the SEMNE. In fifth-generation (5G) communication systems, the AEMNE can be the access and mobility management function (AMF). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), the mobility management network element can still be the AMF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

The session management network element can be used for session and bearer management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release. Specific functions include allocating and managing Internet Protocol (IP) addresses for UEs, selecting user plane function network elements that provide message forwarding functions, etc. For example, the session management network element can select a suitable user plane function network element for the UE based on the UE's request and the policy control information of the policy control network element, establish a session with the user plane function network element, generate QoS rules and billing rules, etc. The session management network element can control the data forwarding and processing behavior of the user plane function network element. In a 5G communication system, the session management network element can be a session management function (SMF). In future communication systems (such as a 6G communication system), the session management network element can still be an SMF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

The binding support network element is mainly used for session binding and selecting the policy control function network element for the user. In the 5G communication system, the binding support network element can be the BSF. In future communication systems (such as the 6G communication system), the binding support network element can still be the BSF network element, or it can have other names, which is not limited by this application.

User plane functional network elements (FNEs) can be used to process user messages, such as forwarding, billing, and legal monitoring. Furthermore, FNEs can be used for user plane data packet routing, forwarding, QoS flow processing, threshold control, traffic monitoring, verification, data packet detection, and reporting. FNEs can also manage UE IP addresses and core network (CN) tunnel information. FNEs can be located in the user plane of the 5G core network, providing UEs with high-speed, efficient, and flexible data transmission services. Furthermore, FNEs can filter, shape, and bill data packets based on control plane instructions, enabling refined management and control of user data flows. FNEs can connect to access network equipment via the N3 interface and to the data network via the N6 interface, enabling data transmission between the UE and external data networks. FNEs are also referred to as protocol data unit (PDU) session anchors (PSAs). In a 5G communication system, the user plane function network element may be a user plane function (UPF). In future communication systems (such as a 6G communication system), the user plane function network element may still be a UPF network element, or may have other names, which is not limited in this application.

Network management (NM) is primarily responsible for routine network and service analysis, forecasting, planning, and configuration, as well as network and service testing and fault management. OAM can interact with the RAN to obtain information such as radio channel conditions and radio resource utilization on the RAN side. In 5G communication systems, NM can refer to operations, administration, and management (OAM). In future communication systems (such as 6G communication systems), NM may still be an OAM network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

Data networks are primarily used to provide data transmission services to terminal devices. Data networks can be private networks, such as local area networks (LANs), public data networks (PDNs), such as the Internet, or proprietary networks deployed jointly by operators, such as those configured with IP multimedia core network subsystem (IMS) services. Data networks can also be provided by third parties.

In the architecture shown in Figure 1, the interface names and functions between the various network elements are as follows:

1. N1: The interface between AMF and UE, which can be used to deliver QoS control rules to UE.

2. N2: The interface between AMF and (R)AN, which can be used to transmit radio bearer control information from the core network side to the RAN.

3. N3: Interface between RAN and UPF, used to transfer uplink or downlink user plane data between RAN and UPF.

4. N4: The interface between SMF and UPF, which can be used to transmit information between the control plane and the user plane, including the control of the forwarding rules, QoS control rules, traffic statistics rules, etc. for the user plane and the reporting of information on the user plane.

5. N6: Interface between UPF and DN, used to transmit uplink or downlink user data flow between UPF and DN.

6. The service-oriented interfaces Nnef, Nnrf, Namf, Npcf, Nsmf, Nudm, Nnwdaf, Naf, Nudr, Nudm, and Nbsf are respectively provided by the above-mentioned NEF network elements, NRF network elements, AMF network elements, PCF network elements, SMF network elements, UDM network elements, NWDAF network elements, AF network elements, UDR network elements, UDM network elements, and BSF network elements, and are used to call corresponding service-oriented operations.

The above-mentioned network element or function can be a network element in a hardware device, a software function running on dedicated hardware, or a virtualized function instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). Optionally, the above-mentioned network element or function can be implemented by a single device, or by multiple devices, or as a functional module within a single device, which is not specifically limited in the embodiments of the present application.

The above naming is only defined to facilitate the distinction between different functions and should not constitute any limitation to this application. This application does not exclude the possibility of adopting other naming in 5G networks and other networks in the future. For example, in a 6G network, some or all of the above networks may use the terminology in 5G, or other names may be used. The interface name between the various network elements in Figure 1 is only an example. The name of the interface in the specific implementation may be other names, and this application does not make specific limitations on this. In addition, the name of the message (or signaling) transmitted between the above-mentioned network elements is only an example and does not constitute any limitation on the function of the message itself.

The aforementioned "network element" may also be referred to as an entity, device, apparatus, or module, and this application does not specifically limit these terms. Furthermore, in this application, for ease of understanding and explanation, the term "network element" is omitted from some descriptions. For example, a PCF network element is referred to as a PCF. In this case, the "PCF" should be understood to refer to a PCF network element or PCF entity, and descriptions of identical or similar situations are omitted below.

FIG2 is a schematic flow chart of a method 200 for selecting a UPF. The method 200 is described below with reference to FIG2 .

S210: SMF sends a subscription retrieval message to UDM. Correspondingly, UDM receives the subscription retrieval message from SMF.

The subscription retrieval message may be used to request a first UPF function associated with a PDU session. For purposes of distinction, the first UPF function may refer to a UPF function from the UDM. A second UPF function may also appear below, and this second UPF function may be a UPF function from the PCF. The first UPF function may include one or more functions. The second UPF function may also include one or more functions.

In some possible implementations, method 200 further includes: the SMF receiving a request to establish or modify the PDU session. In some possible implementations, S210 includes: in response to the request to establish or modify the PDU session, the SMF sending the subscription retrieval message to the UDM.

S220: UDM sends subscription information to SMF. Correspondingly, SMF receives subscription information from SMF.

The subscription information may include a first UPF function related to the PDU session. The UDM may determine the first UPF function based on user data, that is, a UPF having all the functions in the first UPF function is more suitable for the PDU session of the user.

S230: The SMF sends a policy association or policy modification message to the PCF. Correspondingly, the PCF receives the policy association or policy modification message from the SMF.

Wherein, when the SMF receives the establishment request of the PDU session, in S230, the SMF may send a policy association (or policy creation) message to the PCF. When the SMF receives the modification request of the PDU session, in S230, the SMF may send a policy modification message to the PCF.

Policy association or policy modification messages can be used to request a second UPF function related to the PDU session.

At step S240, the PCF sends policy and charging control (PCC) rules to the SMF. Correspondingly, the SMF receives the PCC rules from the PCF.

The PCC rules may include a second UPF function related to the PDU session. The PCF may determine the second UPF function based on policy information, where the policy information is locally configured by the PCF and may refer to user-related information during the configuration process. Therefore, a UPF that has all the functions in the second UPF function is more suitable for the user's PDU session.

According to S220 and S240 , the SMF may receive the first UPF function and the second UPF function from the UDM and the PCF, respectively.

S250: The SMF sends a discovery request to the NRF. Correspondingly, the NRF receives the discovery request from the SMF.

The discovery request may include the first UPF function and the second UPF function. The discovery request may be used to request the NRF to discover a UPF that has at least part of the first UPF function and the second UPF function.

S260: NRF sends multiple UPF configuration files to SMF. Correspondingly, SMF receives multiple UPF configuration files from NRF.

Among them, the multiple UPFs corresponding to the configuration files sent by NRF to SMF can have some or all of the functions of the first UPF function and the second UPF function.

S270: The SMF selects a UPF from multiple UPFs.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a UPF that has all of the first and second UPF functions is the most suitable UPF for the PDU session. Therefore, the technical solution provided by method 200 can select a UPF that has the most functions related to the PDU session, so that the selected UPF is more suitable for the PDU session. For example, the SMF can select a UPF that has all of the first and second UPF functions, so that the selected UPF is suitable for the PDU session. For another example, the SMF can select a UPF that has the most functions from the first and second UPF functions, so that, in the absence of a UPF that is absolutely the most suitable for the PDU session, the selected UPF is the relatively most suitable UPF for the PDU session.

However, if no UPF exists that has all of the first and second UPF functions, the SMF will have difficulty selecting the most suitable UPF according to method 200. For example, the first and second UPF functions include functions 1-4; UPF#1 has functions 1, 2, and 3, and UPF#2 has functions 1, 2, and 4. Both UPF#1 and UPF#2 have three functions, making it difficult for the SMF to reasonably determine whether UPF#1 or UPF#2 is more suitable for the PDU session. For another example, UPF#1 has functions 1, 2, and 3, and UPF#3 has functions 3 and 4. Even though UPF#1 has more functions than UPF#3, function 4 is more likely to be used in the PDU session, so UPF#3 may be more suitable for the PDU session than UPF#1. However, according to the above method, the SMF will select UPF#1, which has more functions, and thus select a UPF that is less suitable for the PDU session.

Therefore, how to better select user plane functional network elements is an urgent problem to be solved.

Figure 3 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method 300 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Method 300 can better select user plane function network elements, thereby improving network service quality. Operations represented by dashed lines in method 300 are optional operations in method 300. Method 300 is described below in conjunction with Figure 3. For ease of description, the following description may use the user plane function network element as an example.

S320: The second core network element generates first information.

Unless otherwise specified, the second core network element in this application may refer to the second core network element itself (for example, a policy control network element or a unified data management network element), or may refer to a component in the second core network element (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system), or may refer to a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the second core network element. For ease of description, the following description takes the second core network element as an example.

Optionally, the first information is used to indicate priority information. Optionally, the first information is used to indicate a priority within at least one first function. As an example, the priority within at least one function includes the priority of each first function within the at least one function. As another example, the priority within at least one function includes a priority order of the at least one first function.

In some possible implementations, the first information may be direct indication information, i.e., the first information includes information about the priority of at least one first function. In other possible implementations, the first information may be indirect indication information, and the receiving end may determine the priority of at least one first function based on the first information. For example, the receiving end may pre-acquire a mapping relationship between the priority of at least one first function and an identifier. The first information may include an identifier, so that the receiving end can determine the priority of at least one first function corresponding to the identifier.

The embodiment of the present application does not limit the name of the first information. For example, the first information can also be called indication information, priority information, weight information or have other names.

In some possible implementations, the method 300 further includes: the second core network element determining a priority among the at least one first function.

The first function may be a UPF function. As an example, the first function may be a function that supports deep packet inspection (DPI). The UPF may have a specific DPI level, for example, the UPF may perform DPI on a specific transport layer protocol or application. As another example, the first function may be a function that supports parental control. For example, the UPF may perform specific control on traffic execution. The above is merely an example and does not constitute a limitation of the present application. The first function may also be other functions.

The priority of a first function can represent the priority (or importance) of the first function. For example, if a first function must be used for the UPF to process the PDU session, then the priority of the first function is the highest; or, the priority of the first function is no longer evaluated by priority, but it is a required UPF function. For another example, although a first function is not necessary for the UPF to process the PDU session, the frequency of use of the first function is large, then the priority of the first function is high. For another example, although a first function may be used for the UPF to process the PDU session, the frequency of use of the first function is low, then the priority of the first function is low. For another example, if a first function cannot be used for the UPF to process the PDU session, then the priority of the first function is the lowest; or, the priority of the first function is no longer evaluated by priority, but it is an unselected UPF function, or it is not reflected in the UPF function list (or called UPF function group, or UPF function set).

Priority can include levels, relative relationships, or weights. The following description uses the example of at least one first function including Function #1, Function #2, and Function #3. The first information can be used to indicate the priority of Function #1, the priority of Function #2, and the priority of Function #3. For example, the first information may indicate that Function #1 has the highest priority, Function #2 has the lowest priority, and Function #3 has an intermediate priority. Thus, the three functions are ranked from highest to lowest priority as follows: Function #1, Function #3, Function #2.

As a possible implementation, priorities can be expressed in the form of weights. For example, the first information may indicate that function #1 has a weight of 100%, function #2 has a weight of 0, and function #3 has a weight of 50%. In this way, the receiving end can determine the order of priority of the three functions from highest to lowest based on the weights of the three functions indicated in the first information: function #1, function #3, function #2.

As another possible implementation, priorities can be expressed in relative terms. For example, the first information may indicate that function #3 takes precedence over function #2, and function #1 takes precedence over function #3. Thus, based on the relative priorities of the three functions indicated by the first information, the receiving end can determine the order of the three functions, from highest to lowest priority, as: function #1, function #3, function #2.

As another possible implementation, priority can be expressed in the form of levels. For example, the first information may indicate that function #1 has a priority of level 1 (i.e., the highest level), function #2 has a priority of level 5, and function #3 has a priority of level 3. Thus, the receiving end can determine, based on the priorities of the three functions indicated by the first information, the order of the three functions from highest to lowest priority: function #1, function #3, function #2.

In some possible implementations, method 300 further includes: the second core network element obtaining (or determining) a UPF function list (or referred to as a UPF function group, or a UPF function set). Optionally, when the second core network element is a unified data management element, the second core network element may determine the UPF function list based on subscription information (or referred to as user data). Optionally, when the second core network element is a policy control element, the second core network element may determine the UPF function list based on policy information or local configuration.

Optionally, the first information is also used to indicate a UPF function list. As a possible implementation, the first information may indicate a UPF function list with priority information. For example, {Function #1, level 1; Function #2, level 5; Function #3, level 3}. As another possible implementation, the first information may indicate the UPF function list and priority information separately. For example, the first information may indicate {Function #1; Function #2; Function #3} and {level 1; level 5; level 3}. However, this application does not limit the UPF function list to being indicated only by the first information; the UPF function list may also be indicated by other information.

Optionally, the UPF functions in the UPF function list are based on the granularity of UE or data network name (DNN). The term "granularity" can be understood as the level of objects at which the UPF functions are selected. For example, a UPF with function #1 can handle all PDU sessions of the same UE, then function #1 can be based on the granularity of UE. For another example, a UPF with function #2 can handle all PDU sessions connected to the same DNN, then function #1 can be based on the granularity of DNN. However, this application does not limit the UPF function list to only the granularity of UE or DNN. For other embodiments, please refer to the following and will not be repeated here.

Optionally, the UPF function list may include a UE identifier and/or a DNN. Wherein, when the UPF function is based on UE granularity, the UPF function may correspond to a UE identifier. Wherein, when the UPF function is based on DNN granularity, the UPF function may correspond to a DNN.

Optionally, the UPF function list may include both optional and mandatory UPF functions. In some possible implementations, the priority of the at least one first function may be the priority of the optional UPF function. That is, the priority of the at least one first function, in addition to the mandatory UPF functions, can represent the priority of the optional UPF functions. In other possible implementations, the priority of the at least one first function may include the priorities of both mandatory and optional UPF functions. For example, the first function with the highest priority is a mandatory UPF function; a first function with a lower priority is an optional UPF function. In another example, the first function with the highest relative priority is a mandatory UPF function; a first function with a lower relative priority is an optional UPF function. In another example, the first function with the highest weight (e.g., 100%) is a mandatory UPF function; a first function with a lower weight (e.g., less than 100%) is an optional UPF function. In other words, the priority of the at least one first function can represent the priority of both mandatory and optional UPF functions.

S330: The first core network element receives first information from the second core network element. Correspondingly, the second core network element sends the first information to the first core network element.

Optionally, when the second core network element is a unified data management element, the first information may be carried in a service message (e.g., a notification message) sent by the unified data management element to the first core network element. Optionally, the service message also includes a UPF function list. Optionally, the service message also includes subscription information.

Optionally, when the second core network element is a policy control element, the first information may be carried in a service message (e.g., a policy control create or update response message) sent by the policy control element to the first core network element. Optionally, the service message also includes a UPF function list. Optionally, the service message may also include PCC rules.

However, this application does not limit the message carried by the first information, and the first information can also be carried in other messages.

S360: The first core network element determines a user plane network element.

The user plane network element may be a user plane function network element. The following description may take the user plane function network element as an example.

The user plane network element may be a device determined by the first core network network element, or a selected device. Optionally, the user plane network element is one of at least one candidate device. The at least one candidate device may be at least one user plane function network element. As a specific example, the UPF determined by the first core network network element may be one of at least one candidate UPF. In other words, the at least one candidate UPF may include the determined UPF. Optionally, S360 includes: the first core network network element determines the user plane network element from at least one candidate device. Optionally, S360 includes: the first core network network element selects the user plane network element from at least one candidate device.

Optionally, the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element (hereinafter may be referred to as the first function of the user plane network element) is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of the device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device (hereinafter may be referred to as "unselected device").

The unselected device may be one or more devices. For ease of description, the unselected device is taken as one device as an example. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present application is also applicable when there are multiple unselected devices.

The one or more first functions of the user plane network element can be understood as the one or more first functions possessed by the user plane network element. The one or more first functions herein can belong to the at least one first function indicated by the first information. Similarly, the one or more first functions of the unselected device can be understood as the one or more first functions possessed by the unselected device. The one or more first functions herein can belong to the at least one first function indicated by the first information.

If a user plane network element has one first function, the priority of the first function of the user plane network element may be the priority of the first function. If the user plane network element has multiple first functions, the priority of the first function of the user plane network element may be determined by the priority of each of the multiple first functions. As an example, the priority of the first function of the user plane network element may be a set of levels of each of the multiple first functions. For example, assume that the at least one first function indicated by the first information and its level are: {Function #1, level 1; Function #2, level 5; Function #3, level 3}. Exemplarily, the first functions of the user plane network element may be Function #1 and Function #3. Correspondingly, the levels of the first function of the user plane network element may be Level 1 and Level 3. As another example, the priority of the first function of the user plane network element may be a numerical value determined by the weight of each of the multiple first functions. For example, assume that the at least one first function indicated by the first information and its weight are: {Function #1, 100%; Function #2, 20%; Function #3, 50%}. Exemplarily, the first functions of the user plane network element may be Function #1 and Function #3. Accordingly, the weight of the first function of the user plane network element may be a value determined by 100% and 50%. For example, the average weight of function #1 and function #3 may be 75%. For another example, the sum of the weights of function #1 and function #3 may be 150%.

In the present application, the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element is higher than the priority of the first function of the unselected device. This can be understood as the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element being "not lower than" the priority of the first function of the unselected device. In other words, "higher than" can include the case where the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element is equal to the priority of the first function of the unselected device.

Exemplarily, S360 includes: comparing the first functions of each candidate device in descending order of levels to determine the user-plane network element. As an example, if the highest level of one or more first functions of the user-plane network element is higher than the highest level of one or more first functions of the unselected devices, the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element is higher than the priority of the first functions of the unselected devices. For example, if the highest level of the first function of the user-plane network element is level 1 and the highest level of the first function of the unselected devices is level 2, then the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element is higher than the priority of the first function of the unselected devices.

As another example, if the highest level of one or more first functions of the user-plane network element is equal to the highest level of one or more first functions of the unselected device, and the second highest level (or second highest level) is further compared, and if the second highest level of one or more first functions of the user-plane network element is higher than the second highest level of one or more first functions of the unselected device, the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element is higher than the priority of the first function of the unselected device. For example, if the highest level of the first function of the user-plane network element is level 1 and the second highest level is level 2; if the highest level of the first function of the unselected device is level 1 and the second highest level is level 3, then the priority of the first function of the user-plane network element is higher than the priority of the first function of the unselected device.

Exemplarily, S360 includes comparing the weight values of the candidate devices to determine the user plane network element. For example, if the average weight of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is 75%, and the average weight of one or more first functions of the unselected devices is 60%, the first core network element may select the user plane network element.

Optionally, S360 includes: the first core network element determines (or selects) the user plane network element when the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of the device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

Through the above scheme, the priority of the functions possessed by the determined user plane network element is higher than the priority of the functions possessed by other candidate devices. Compared with the scheme of selecting user plane function network elements only by the number of functions possessed, the above scheme can avoid the first core network network element from selecting an unsuitable user plane function network element by setting priorities for functions, thereby better selecting user plane function network elements. For example, by setting priorities for functions according to the frequency of use, the above scheme can avoid the first core network network element from selecting a user plane function network element that has more functions but has a lower frequency of use of the functions it possesses. For another example, in the case where several candidate devices have the same number of functions, the above scheme can enable the first core network network element to make a reasonable selection among these candidate devices based on priority, avoiding the situation where no selection can be made or a random selection is made.

In some possible implementations, the method 300 further includes: (S340) the first core network element sends the second information to the third core network element. Correspondingly, the third core network element receives the second information from the first core network element.

Unless otherwise specified, the third core network element in this application may refer to the third core network element itself (for example, a network storage function element), or a component in the third core network element (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or a logic module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the third core network element. For ease of description, the following description takes the third core network element as an example. Optionally, the third core network element is used to discover the user plane function element.

Optionally, the second information is used to indicate priority information. Optionally, the second information is used to indicate priority in at least one first function.

The second information is similar to the first information in that it can also indicate the priority of at least one first function. The difference is that the second information is information sent by the first core network element to the third core network element, while the first information is information received by the first core network element from the second core network element. Optionally, method 300 further includes: the first core network element generating the second information. Optionally, the first core network element generating the second information includes: the first core network element generating the second information based on the first information.

In some possible implementations, the second information may be direct indication information, i.e., the second information includes information about the priority of at least one first function. In other possible implementations, the second information may be indirect indication information, and the receiving end may determine the priority of at least one first function based on the second information. For example, the receiving end may pre-acquire a mapping relationship between the priority of at least one first function and an identifier. The second information may include an identifier, so that the receiving end can determine the priority of at least one first function corresponding to the identifier.

Optionally, the second information is also used to indicate the UPF function list. For a detailed description, please refer to the above description and will not be repeated here. Furthermore, this application does not limit this, and the information indicating the UPF function list may also be other information.

The second information may be carried in the discovery request message, but this application does not limit this, and the second information may also be carried in other messages.

The embodiment of the present application does not limit the name of the second information. For example, the second information can also be called indication information, priority information, weight information or have other names.

Optionally, the second information is further used to request information about the user plane network element. For example, the information about the user plane network element may be a configuration file of the user plane network element. For another example, the information about the user plane network element may be instance information of the user plane network element. For another example, the information about the user plane network element may be an identifier of the user plane network element.

Optionally, the second information is further used to request information of at least one candidate device and a priority order of at least one candidate device.

For example, the information of the at least one candidate device may be a configuration file of the at least one candidate device. For another example, the information of the at least one candidate device may be instance information of the at least one candidate device. For another example, the information of the at least one candidate device may be an identifier of the at least one candidate device.

Exemplarily, the priority order of the at least one candidate device may be a sequence of the at least one candidate device that has completed sorting.

However, this application does not limit this, and the above-mentioned request information can also be implemented by other information.

Through the above solution, the first core network element can use the second information to inform the third core network element of the priority of the first function. The third core network element can make corresponding processing based on the information about the priority of the first function. For example, the third core network element may not discover user plane function elements that only have a lower priority for the first function. For another example, the third core network element may only discover user plane function elements that have a higher priority for the first function. Therefore, the above solution can improve the efficiency of the third core network element in discovering user plane function elements through the indication of the second information.

In some possible implementations, the method 300 further includes: (S350) the first core network element receives third information from the third core network element. Correspondingly, the third core network element sends the third information to the first core network element.

Optionally, the third information is used to indicate information of the user plane network element. This embodiment can be understood as the third information only indicating information of the selected device, thereby quickly helping the first core network element to select a user plane functional network element with less information, reducing transmission overhead.

The information of the user plane network element may be the identifier of the user plane network element, the configuration file of the user plane network element, or the instance information of the user plane network element. For example, the information of the user plane network element may be the configuration file of the selected UPF or the selected UPF instance.

Optionally, the third information is used to indicate information about the at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device. This embodiment can be understood as the third information indicating information about all candidate devices (for example, a UPF list) and the priority of these candidate devices, thereby helping the first core network network element to quickly select a user plane function network element. Since the third information indicates more than one candidate device, if the first core network network element does not expect to select the user plane function network element with the highest priority, other candidate user plane function network elements can also be selected, thereby increasing the flexibility of selecting user plane function network elements.

The information of at least one candidate device may be a configuration file of at least one candidate device, or may be instance information of at least one candidate device. The information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device may also be referred to as priority information. For example, the information of the three candidate devices UPF#1 to #3 and their priority information may include: the configuration file of UPF#2, the configuration file of UPF#1, and the configuration file of UPF#3. In this way, the receiving end can determine that UPF#2 (i.e., the user plane network element) takes precedence over UPF#1 and UPF#3 (i.e., the unselected devices) based on the above information. In addition, the receiving end can determine the configuration file of UPF#2 (i.e., the information of the user plane network element) based on the above information.

In some possible implementations, method 300 further includes: generating, by a third core network element, third information. In some possible implementations, S350 includes: sending, by the third core network element, the third information to the first core network element in response to the second information. In some possible implementations, generating, by the third core network element, the third information includes: generating, by the third core network element, the third information based on the second information.

In some possible implementations, S360 includes: the first core network element determines the user plane network element based on the third information. For example, when the third information is used to indicate information about the user plane network element, the first core network element can directly determine the user plane network element based on the third information. For another example, when the third information is used to indicate information about at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device, the first core network element can select the user plane network element from the at least one candidate device based on the information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

Through the above solution, the third information can indicate only the selected user plane function network element. Alternatively, the third information can indicate multiple candidate user plane function network elements and the priority order of these candidate network elements. The above solution can help the first core network network element select the user plane function network element more quickly, thereby improving efficiency.

In some other possible implementations, S360 includes: the first core network element determining the user plane network element based on the first information. For example, the first core network element may not send the second information indicating priority to the third core network element, but may only request information about at least one candidate device. Consequently, the third core network element does not send the third information to the first core network element, but only sends the information about the at least one candidate device. In this way, the first core network element may select a user plane network element from the at least one candidate device based on the priority information indicated by the first information.

In some possible implementations, the method 300 further includes: (S310) the first core network element sends fourth information to the second core network element. Correspondingly, the second core network element receives the fourth information from the first core network element.

Optionally, the fourth information is used to request (or query) the priority of the at least one first function.

In the case where the second core network element is a unified data management element, the fourth information may be carried in a service message (e.g., a query message). Optionally, the service message includes at least one of a subscription permanent identifier (SUPI), user data, session management user data, a selected DNN, a serving public land mobile network (PLMN) identifier, or single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI) of a home PLMN (HPLMN).

In the case where the second core network element is a policy control network element, the fourth information may be carried in a service message (eg, a policy control establishment or update message).

Optionally, the fourth information may also be used to request a UPF function list, but this application is not limited thereto, and the information for requesting a UPF function list may also be other information.

In some possible implementations, S320 includes: in response to the fourth information, the second core network element sends the first information to the first core network element.

FIG4 is a schematic flow chart of a communication method 400 provided in an embodiment of the present application. Operations indicated by dashed lines in method 400 are optional operations in method 400. Method 400 can be combined with method 300. Method 400 is described below in conjunction with FIG4.

S402, SMF establishes a PDU session.

For example, the SMF may trigger the execution of S402 after receiving a PDU session establishment (modification) request.

Among them, SMF can correspond to the first core network element in method 300.

S412: SMF sends a query message to UDM. Correspondingly, UDM receives the query message from SMF.

The UDM may correspond to the second core network element in method 300. S412 may be understood as the SMF querying the subscription information from the UDM. The query message may include the fourth information in method 300. Optionally, the query message is also used to request a UPF function list.

Exemplarily, the query message may include at least one of SUPI, user data, session management user data, a selected DNN, a PLMN identifier, or S-NSSAI of the HPLMN.

The query message may also be called a subscription retrieval message, a Nudr_data management (DM)_query message, or have other names.

S414: SMF receives the notification message from UDM. Correspondingly, UDM sends a notification message to SMF.

The notification message may include the first information in method 300. Optionally, the notification message also includes a UPF function list.

S422: The SMF selects a PCF.

For example, the SMF may select a PCF from at least one candidate PCF, wherein the selected PCF may correspond to the second core network element in method 300 .

S424: The SMF sends a policy control creation or update message to the PCF. Correspondingly, the PCF receives the policy control creation or update message from the SMF.

It is understandable that the PCF in S424 may be the PCF selected by the SMF in S422. Unless otherwise specified, the PCFs in this application are all PCFs selected by the SMF.

The policy control creation or update message may include the fourth information in method 300. Optionally, the policy control creation or update message is further used to request a UPF function list.

The policy control create message may also be referred to as an Npcf_session management (SM) policy control_create message or have other names. The policy control update message may also be referred to as an Npcf_SM policy control_update message or have other names.

S426: The SMF receives the policy control creation or update response message from the PCF. Correspondingly, the PCF sends a policy control creation or update response message to the SMF.

The policy control creation or update response message may include the first information in method 300. Optionally, the policy control creation or update response message further includes a UPF function list.

The policy control create response message may also be referred to as an Npcf_SM policy control_create response message or have other names. The policy control update response message may also be referred to as an Npcf_SM policy control_update response message or have other names.

In method 400, the first core network element (i.e., the SMF in method 400) may obtain priority information via S412 and S414, or via S422 to S426. For example, the first information is carried in the notification message in S414, but not in the policy control creation or update response message in S426. For another example, the first information is not carried in the notification message in S414, but is carried in the policy control creation or update response message in S426. For another example, the first information is carried in both the notification message in S414 and the policy control creation or update response message in S426. It is understood that when the first information is carried in both the notification message and the policy control creation or update response message, the first information carried in the notification message may indicate the priority of a portion of the first function, and the first information carried in the policy control creation or update response message may indicate the priority of another portion of the first function. In other words, the at least one first function in S330 may include functions in the UPF function list determined by the PCF and/or functions in the UPF function list determined by the UDM.

This application does not limit the execution order of S412 to S426. For example, S412 and S414 can be executed before S422 to S426. For another example, S412 and S414 can be executed after S422 to S426.

S432: SMF sends a discovery request to NRF. Correspondingly, NRF receives the discovery request from SMF.

Among them, NRF can correspond to the third core network element in method 300.

The above S432 can also be understood as the SMF querying the NRF for the UPF instance. Optionally, the NRF profile includes a network address translation (NAT) function and/or a packet inspection function.

Optionally, the discovery request includes a UPF function list. Optionally, the discovery request includes the second information in method 300.

The discovery request may also be referred to as Nnrf_NF discovery_request or have other names.

S434: The SMF receives the discovery request response message from the NRF. Correspondingly, the NRF sends a discovery request response message to the SMF.

Among them, the discovery request response message may include a UPF instance list.

Optionally, the discovery request response message includes the third information in method 300. Optionally, in the case where the discovery request includes the second information in method 300, the discovery request response message includes the third information in method 300. Optionally, method 400 further includes: the NRF generates third information based on the second information. For example, the NRF selects the UPF based on the priority and UPF function list obtained from the SMF. For example, the NRF may select the UPF that has all the required functions and the optional function with the highest comprehensive priority as the optimal UPF. For example, the third information may only indicate the instance of the above-mentioned optimal UPF, or may indicate a list of UPF instances with priority.

S442, SMF selects UPF.

The UPF selected in S442 may correspond to the user plane network element in the method 300. The UPF in the above UPF instance list may correspond to at least one candidate device in the method 300.

In some possible implementations, SMF can select UPF based on the priority information and UPF list obtained from PCF and/or UDM, and can select the UPF that has all required functions and the optional functions with the highest overall priority as the optimal UPF, i.e., the user plane network element.

In some other possible implementations, the SMF may determine the optimal UPF, i.e., the user plane network element, based on the third information in the discovery request response message.

Figure 5 is a schematic flowchart of another communication method 500 provided in an embodiment of the present application. The operations indicated by dashed lines in method 500 are optional operations in method 500. Method 500 can be combined with method 300 or method 400. For example, method 500 can be performed before method 300. The second core network element in method 500 can be a policy control element. Method 500 is described below in conjunction with Figure 5.

S540: The first core network element receives the fifth information from the second core network element. Correspondingly, the second core network element sends the fifth information to the first core network element.

Optionally, the fifth information is used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first function and application information and/or business information.

The application information can be used to identify different applications. For example, the application information can be an AF application (application, APP) identifier (identifier, ID), such as APPID.

The service information can be used to identify different services. For example, the service information can be media description information (including media type, media stream description information, etc.).

It is understandable that the fifth information may indicate that one of the at least one first function is at application granularity and/or service granularity. In other optional implementations, some or all of the at least one first function may be at application and/or service granularity. Those skilled in the art will understand that a function may be at at least one of the granularities of UE, DNN, application, or service.

The term "association relationship" can also be understood as a corresponding relationship, a mapping relationship, etc.

As a possible implementation method, the fifth information is carried in the UPF function list. For example, the UPF function list can be: {Function #1, APP #1; Function #2, Service #3}. The UPF function list can indicate that Function #1 is application-granular and corresponds to APP #1, that is, the UPF with Function #1 can handle all PDU sessions of the application corresponding to APP #1; Function #2 is service-granular and corresponds to Service #3, that is, the UPF with Function #2 can handle all PDU sessions of the service corresponding to Service #3. Among them, the exemplary representation of APP #1 is APPID; the exemplary representation of Service #3 can be media description information.

The fifth information and the first information may both be carried in the UPF function list. For example, the UPF function list may be: {Function #1, APP #1, Level 1; Function #2, Service #3, Level 3}.

As a possible implementation manner, the fifth information and the first information can be carried in the same message.

As a possible implementation, the first information has the function of the fifth information. In other words, the first information is also used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first function and the application information and/or service information.

In some possible implementations, the fifth information may be direct indication information, that is, the fifth information includes an association relationship between a first function and application information and/or business information. In other possible implementations, the fifth information may be indirect indication information, and the receiving end may determine the priority of at least one first function based on the fifth information. For example, the receiving end may pre-acquire a mapping relationship between the priority of at least one first function and an identifier. The fifth information may include an identifier, so that the receiving end can determine the priority of at least one first function corresponding to the identifier.

The embodiment of the present application does not limit the name of the fifth information. For example, the fifth information can also be called indication information, granularity information, or have other names.

In some possible implementations, S360 includes: the first core network element determining the user plane network element based on the fifth information. As an example, the first core network element may determine the user plane network element based on the fifth information and the first information. As another example, the first core network element may determine the user plane network element based on the fifth information and the third information.

Through the above solution, the fifth information can indicate the association between the first function and service information or application information. In this way, the first function can be a function with service or application granularity. The fifth information can assist the first core network element in selecting a user plane function network element. For example, if the first core network element wishes to select a user plane function network element with service or application granularity, the first core network element can determine the user plane function network element based on the fifth information, thereby further improving network service quality.

In some possible implementations, method 500 includes: (S520) the second core network element receives at least one of application information, service information, or a service routing request from a fourth core network element. Correspondingly, the fourth core network element sends at least one of the application information, service information, or service routing request to the second core network element.

Unless otherwise specified, the fourth core network element in this application may refer to the fourth core network element itself (for example, an application function network element), or a component in the fourth core network element (for example, a processor, a chip, or a chip system, etc.), or a logical module or software that can implement all or part of the functions of the fourth core network element.

For example, the AF may transmit service or application related information, such as application information, media description information, or service routing request.

In some possible implementations, the method 500 further includes: (S530) the second core network element determines the priority of one of the at least one first function based on at least one of application information, service information, or service routing request.

Exemplarily, the second core network element may determine the priority of one of the at least one first function based on at least one of application information, service information, or a service routing request, as well as a local configuration. Optionally, the local configuration includes a mapping between service or application priorities and first function priorities. For example, the local configuration includes: {Service #1; Function #1, Level 1; Function #2, Level 3}. Then, if the fourth core network element sends service information or a service routing request corresponding to Service #1, the second core network element may determine that Function #1 is associated with Service #1 and its level is Level 1; that Function #2 is associated with Service #1 and its level is Level 3. For another example, the local configuration includes: {Application #1; Function #3, Level 1; Function #4, Level 2}. Then, if the fourth core network element sends information about the application corresponding to Application #1, the second core network element may determine that Function #3 is associated with Application #1 and its level is Level 1; and that Function #4 is associated with Application #1 and its level is Level 2.

It is understandable that one of the at least one first function in S530 and one of the at least one first function in S540 may be the same first function. In other optional implementations, the second core network element determines the priority of some or all of the at least one first function based on at least one of application information, service information, or service routing request.

In some possible implementations, the method 500 further includes: (S510) the second core network element generates a first strategy.

Exemplarily, the first policy may be a user route selection policy (URSP) or other policy. Optionally, S510 may include: the second core network element, in a process of generating the first policy, associating the first function and the priority of the first function with the service or application.

Optionally, S510 includes: the second core network element generates a first policy based on the functions required by the service or application. For example, service #1 requires function #1 and function #2 (for example, function #1 and function #2 possessed by the UPF in DNN-S-NSSAI #1), and service #1 and priority #1 can correspond to function #1 and function #2. For another example, application #1 requires function #2 and function #3 (for example, function #2 and function #3 possessed by the UPF in DNN-S-NSSAI #2), and application #1 and priority #2 can correspond to function #2 and function #3. The correspondence between the above functions, priorities and services (or applications) can also be expressed as a rule.

Optionally, after the second core network element executes S510, S320 is executed. Optionally, S320 includes: generating first information based on an association relationship between at least one first function and a priority within at least one first function. Optionally, after the second core network element executes S510, S540 is executed. Optionally, method 500 further includes: generating fifth information by the second core network element based on an association relationship between the at least one first function and an application and/or service.

Through the above solution, the second core network element can complete the mapping of functions and priorities during the process of generating the first strategy, thereby supporting the subsequent selection of user plane function network elements.

The following is an introduction to the device embodiment corresponding to the method embodiment of the present application. The following is only a brief introduction to the device, and the specific implementation steps and details of the solution can be referred to the method embodiment above.

To implement the various functions of the method provided herein, the communication device may include hardware structures and/or software modules, and the aforementioned functions may be implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. Whether a particular one of the aforementioned functions is implemented in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution.

Figure 6 is a schematic block diagram of a communications device 1000 according to an embodiment of the present application. Communications device 1000 includes a processor 1010 and a communications interface 1020. Optionally, processor 1010 and communications interface 1020 may be interconnected via a bus. Communications device 1000 may be a first core network element, a second core network element, or a third core network element.

Optionally, the communication device 1000 may further include a memory 1040. The memory 1040 includes, but is not limited to, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), cache, erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid-state drive (SSD), or a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). The memory 1040 is used to store relevant instructions and/or data. The memory 1040 may be integrated with the processor 1010 or provided separately.

Processor 1010 may be one or more central processing units (CPUs). If processor 1010 is a CPU, the CPU may be a single-core CPU or a multi-core CPU. Processor 1010 may be a signal processor, a chip, or other integrated circuit capable of implementing the method of the present application, or a portion of the processing circuitry within the aforementioned processor, chip, or integrated circuit. Furthermore, communication interface 1020 may also be an input/output interface, which is used for inputting or outputting signals or data, or may be an input/output circuit.

Exemplarily, the communication device 1000 is a first core network network element, and the processor 1010 is used to perform the following operations: receive first information from a second core network network element, the first information being used to indicate the priority of at least one first function; determine a user plane network element, wherein the user plane network element is one of at least one candidate device, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of a device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device.

Exemplarily, the communication device 1000 is a second core network network element, and the processor 1010 is used to perform the following operations: generate first information, which is used to indicate the priority of at least one first function, wherein at least one candidate device includes a user plane network element, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of the device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device; and send the first information to the first core network network element.

Exemplarily, the communication device 1000 is a third core network network element, and the processor 1010 is used to perform the following operations: generate third information, which is used to indicate information of the user plane network element, or used to indicate information of at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device, and the user plane network element is one of the at least one candidate device; and send the third information to the first core network network element.

The above content is only for exemplary description. The communication device 1000 is responsible for executing the methods or steps related to the first core network element, the second core network element or the third core network element in the above method embodiments.

In one possible implementation, the communication interface 1020 may be a transceiver. The transceiver may include a transmitter and a receiver, where the transmitter is configured to perform a sending operation and the receiver is configured to perform a receiving operation. For example, the processor 1010 is configured to control the transceiver to receive and/or send signals.

In a possible implementation, the communication interface 1020 may also be a communication circuit, a pin, an input/output interface, a bus, etc.

The communication device 1000 may include a transmitter but not a receiver. Alternatively, the communication device 1000 may include a receiver but not a transmitter. The specific implementation depends on whether the above solution executed by the communication device 1000 includes a sending action and a receiving action.

The above description is merely exemplary. For details, please refer to the contents of the above method embodiments. The implementation of each operation in FIG6 may also correspond to the corresponding description of the method embodiments shown in FIG3 to FIG5.

For example, the communication device 1000 may be used to implement the solutions shown in FIG. 3 to FIG. 5 .

Exemplarily, the communication device 1000 is a first core network element, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to receive first information.

Exemplarily, the communication device 1000 is a second core network element, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to send the first information.

Exemplarily, the communication device 1000 is a third core network element, and the communication interface 1020 can be used to send third information.

For other implementations, please refer to the detailed description of the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5 above, which will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the specific process of each component performing the above corresponding process has been detailed in the above method embodiment, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

Figure 7 is a schematic block diagram of another communication device 1100 according to an embodiment of the present application. Communication device 1100 may be a first core network element, a second core network element, or a third core network element, or may be a chip or module within the first core network element, the second core network element, or the third core network element, and is configured to implement the methods described in the embodiments of Figures 3 to 5. For details, please refer to the relevant descriptions in the aforementioned method embodiments.

The communication device 1100 includes a transceiver unit 1110. The transceiver unit 1110 is described below by way of example.

The transceiver unit 1110 may include a transmitting unit and a receiving unit. The transmitting unit is used to perform the transmitting operation of the communication device, and the receiving unit is used to perform the receiving operation of the communication device. For ease of description, the embodiments of the present application combine the transmitting unit and the receiving unit into a single transceiver unit. This is described here for a unified explanation and will not be repeated later. The transceiver unit 1110 can implement corresponding communication functions. The transceiver unit 1110 can also be referred to as a communication interface or a communication module.

The communication device 1100 may include a sending unit but not a receiving unit. Alternatively, the communication device 1100 may include a receiving unit but not a sending unit. The specific implementation depends on whether the above solution executed by the communication device 1100 includes a sending action and a receiving action.

Exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to receive first information and the like.

Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is configured to execute the contents of the communication device 1100 involving processing, coordination, and other steps. Exemplarily, the processing unit 1120 is configured to determine a user plane network element, and the like.

Exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to send first information, etc.

Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is configured to execute the contents of the communication device 1100 involving processing, coordination, and other steps. Exemplarily, the processing unit 1120 is configured to generate the first information, and the like.

Exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1110 is used to send third information, etc.

Optionally, the communication device 1100 may further include a processing unit 1120, which is configured to execute the contents of the communication device 1100 involving steps such as processing and coordination. Exemplarily, the processing unit 1120 is configured to generate third information and the like.

The above contents are merely exemplary descriptions, and the communication device 1100 is responsible for executing the relevant methods or steps in the above method embodiments.

Optionally, the communication device 1100 further includes a storage unit 1130, which is configured to store a program or code for executing the aforementioned method. Alternatively, the storage unit 1130 may be configured to store instructions and/or data, and the processing unit 1120 may read the instructions and/or data in the storage unit 1130 to enable the communication device 1100 to implement the aforementioned method embodiments. For example, the communication device 1100 may be configured to execute the solutions illustrated in Figures 3 to 5.

Exemplarily, the transceiver unit 1120 may be configured to receive first information; and the processing unit 1120 may be configured to determine a user plane network element.

Exemplarily, the processing unit 1120 may be configured to generate first information; and the transceiver unit 1120 may be configured to send the first information.

Exemplarily, the processing unit 1120 may be configured to generate third information; and the transceiver unit 1120 may be configured to send the third information.

For other implementations, please refer to the detailed description of the embodiments shown in Figures 3 to 5 above, which will not be repeated here. It should be understood that the specific process of each component performing the above corresponding process has been detailed in the above method embodiment, and for the sake of brevity, it will not be repeated here.

When the communication device 1000 in Figure 6 is a chip, the communication interface 1020 can be a transceiver, input/output circuit, or communication interface of the chip. The processor 1010 can be a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. In the above method embodiments, the sending operation of the first core network element, the second core network element, or the third core network element can be understood as the output of the chip, and the receiving operation of the first core network element, the second core network element, or the third core network element in the above method embodiments can be understood as the input of the chip.

When the communication device 1100 in Figure 7 is a chip, the transceiver unit 1110 may be a transceiver, input/output circuit, or communication interface of the chip. The processing unit 1120 may be a processor, microprocessor, or integrated circuit integrated on the chip. In the above method embodiments, the sending operation of the first core network element, the second core network element, or the third core network element may be understood as an output of the chip, and the receiving operation of the first core network element, the second core network element, or the third core network element in the above method embodiments may be understood as an input of the chip.

The present application also provides a chip, including a processor, for calling and executing instructions stored in a memory from the memory, so that a communication device equipped with the chip executes the methods in the above examples.

The present application also provides another chip, comprising: an input interface, an output interface, and a processor, wherein the input interface, the output interface, and the processor are connected via an internal connection path, and the processor is configured to execute code in a memory. When the code is executed, the processor is configured to execute the methods in the above examples. Optionally, the chip also includes a memory, which is configured to store computer programs or code.

The present application also provides a processor for coupling with a memory, for executing the methods and functions involving a perception device or a communication device in any of the above embodiments, or for executing the methods and functions involving a first core network element, a second core network element or a third core network element in any of the above embodiments.

In another embodiment of the present application, a computer program product including a computer program or instructions is provided. When the computer program product is run on a computer, the method of the aforementioned embodiment is implemented.

The present application also provides a computer program. When the computer program is executed in a computer, the method of the aforementioned embodiment is implemented.

In another embodiment of the present application, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, which stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a computer, the method described in the above embodiment is implemented.

The present application also provides a communication system, which includes a first core network element, a second core network element, and a third core network element. The first core network element, the second core network element, and the third core network element are respectively used to execute the methods executed by the first core network element and the second core network element in the above embodiments.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are performed in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Professional and technical personnel can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the aforementioned method embodiments and will not be repeated here.

In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely schematic. For example, the division of the units is merely a logical function division. In actual implementation, there may be other division methods, such as multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the mutual coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, indirect coupling or communication connection of devices or units, which can be electrical, mechanical or other forms.

The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate, and the components shown as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of these units may be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

In addition, each functional unit in each embodiment of the present application may be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit may exist physically separately, or two or more units may be integrated into one unit.

If the functions are implemented in the form of software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of the present application, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or the part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. The computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions for enabling a computer device (which can be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the method described in each embodiment of the present application. The aforementioned storage media include: U disk, mobile hard disk, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disk or optical disk, and other media that can store program codes.

Claims (21)

A communication method, characterized in that the method is applied to a first core network element, and the method includes: receiving first information from a second core network element, where the first information is used to indicate a priority of at least one first function; Determine a user plane network element, wherein the user plane network element is one of at least one candidate device, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of a device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Second information is sent to a third core network element, where the second information is used to indicate a priority among the at least one first function. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the method further comprises: Receive third information from a third core network network element, where the third information is used to indicate information of the user plane network element, or to indicate information of the at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device. The method according to claim 3, wherein determining the user plane network element comprises: Determine the user plane network element according to the third information. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein determining the user plane network element comprises: Determine the user plane network element according to the first information. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising: Send fourth information to the second core network element, where the fourth information is used to request the priority of the at least one first function. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising: Receive fifth information from the second core network element, where the fifth information is used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first function and application information and/or service information. A communication method, characterized in that the method is applied to a second core network element, and the method includes: generating first information for indicating a priority among at least one first function, wherein at least one candidate device includes a user plane network element, and the priority of one or more first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more first functions of a device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device; Send the first information to the first core network element. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: Receive fourth information from the first core network element, where the fourth information is used to request a priority among the at least one first function. The method according to claim 9, wherein sending the first information to the first core network element comprises: In response to the fourth information, the first information is sent to the first core network element. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising: Fifth information is sent to the first core network network element, where the fifth information is used to indicate an association relationship between one of the at least one first functions and application information and/or service information. The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11, further comprising: Determine the priority of one of the at least one first function according to at least one of application information, service information, or service routing request. A communication method, characterized in that the method is applied to a third core network element, and the method includes: generating third information, the third information being used to indicate information of a user plane network element, or being used to indicate information of at least one candidate device and information that the user plane network element takes precedence over devices other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device, the user plane network element being one of the at least one candidate device; Send the third information to the first core network network element. The method according to claim 13, further comprising: Receive second information from the first core network network element, where the second information is used to indicate the priority of at least one of the first functions, wherein the priority of one or more of the first functions of the user plane network element is higher than the priority of one or more of the first functions of the device other than the user plane network element in the at least one candidate device. The method according to claim 14, wherein the sending the third information to the first core network element comprises: In response to the second information, the third information is sent to the first core network element. A communication device, characterized in that it includes at least one module or at least one unit, wherein the at least one module or the at least one unit is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, or the at least one module or the at least one unit is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, or the at least one module or the at least one unit is used to execute the method according to any one of claims 13 to 15. A communication device, characterized in that it comprises: a processor, wherein the processor is used to execute a computer program or instruction so that the method of any one of claims 1 to 7 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 8 to 12 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 13 to 15 is executed. The communication device according to claim 17, characterized in that the communication device further comprises a memory, wherein the memory is used to store the computer program or the instruction. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that a computer program or instruction is stored on the computer-readable storage medium, and when the computer program or the instruction is run on a computer, the method of any one of claims 1 to 7 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 8 to 12 is executed, or the method of any one of claims 13 to 15 is executed. A computer program product, characterized in that it includes a computer program or instructions, and when the computer program or instructions are executed, the method according to any one of claims 1 to 7 is implemented, or the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12 is implemented, or the method according to any one of claims 13 to 15 is implemented. A communication system, characterized in that it includes a first core network network element, a second core network network element and a third core network network element, wherein the first core network network element is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 1 to 7, the second core network network element is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 8 to 12, and the third core network network element is used to execute the method described in any one of claims 13 to 15.