WO2007098699A1

WO2007098699A1 - A media stream control method, a media stream conversion device and a multicast system

Info

Publication number: WO2007098699A1
Application number: PCT/CN2007/000649
Authority: WO
Inventors: Xiangyang We; Jun Yan; Jincheng Li
Original assignee: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
Priority date: 2006-03-02
Filing date: 2007-03-01
Publication date: 2007-09-07

Abstract

A media stream control method includes :the service control unit sends a request for converting multicast media stream to the multicast media stream conversion unit; after the multicast media stream is received by the multicast media stream conversion unit, the multicast media stream is converted into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream and is sent to the service reception party. Still there are a NGN-based media stream control method, a media stream conversion device, a BGF, a multicast system and a NGN-based multicast system. The received multicast media stream may be converted into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream, so that it can be ensured that the media stream is successfully transported through the subsequent IP network until it reaches the service reception party. Therefore it can be ensured that the media stream is received normally by the service reception party.

Description

Media stream control method, media stream conversion device, and multicast system

This application is required to be submitted to the Chinese Patent Office on March 3, 2006, application number 20061Q034144.4, and the invention name is "a method, device and system for providing multicast services based on IP networks" and on March 2, 2006. The priority of the Chinese Patent Application No. 200610034079.5, entitled "A Multicast Control System and Method", is hereby incorporated by reference.

Technical field

The present invention relates to multicast technologies, and in particular, to a media stream control method, a media stream conversion device, and a multicast system.

Background technique

When the communication service is implemented based on the IP network, the service provider can provide the service to the service recipient in the form of a media stream. If the service provider only needs to send the media stream to a service receiver, the service provider may send the unicast media stream to the service receiver; if the service provider needs to send the same media stream to multiple service receivers, and The IP network between the service provider and the service receiver can be compatible with the multicast media stream, and the service receiver can receive the multicast media stream, and the service receiver can send the multicast media stream, and the service needs to receive the multicast media stream. The receiver only needs to join the multicast group to receive the multicast media stream.

In practical applications, there may be multiple IP networks between the service provider and the service receiver. There may be one device or functional entity that forwards the media stream between each two IP networks. For a unicast media stream sent by the service provider, the device or functional entity that forwards the media stream may forward the unicast media stream to the service receiver or the next device that forwards the media stream, but for the multicast media stream sent by the service provider The device or functional entity that forwards the media stream cannot forward the multicast media stream normally for a variety of reasons. As a result, the service receiver cannot receive the media stream.

As shown in Figure 1, there are two IP networks between the service provider and the service receiver. A forwarding device such as a router is set up between the two IP networks. If the service provider provides a unicast media stream to the service receiver, the router receives the packet. After the unicast media stream, the unicast media stream can be forwarded to the service recipient through the IP network. Assume that the service provider and router The IP network can be compatible with the multicast media stream. The IP network between the router and the service receiver is not compatible with the multicast media stream, and the service receiver can receive both the unicast media stream and the multicast media stream. If the IP address of the router is not compatible with the multicast media stream, the router cannot forward the multicast media stream, so that the service receiver cannot receive the media stream.

Therefore, in practical applications, the current media stream control technology cannot fully guarantee that the service receiver can receive the media stream normally.

Summary of the invention

The technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a media stream control method, a media stream conversion device, and a multicast system, so as to achieve the purpose that the service receiver can receive the media stream completely normally.

An embodiment of the present invention provides a media flow control method, including: a service control unit sends a request for converting a multicast media stream to a multicast media stream conversion unit; and after receiving the multicast media stream, the multicast media stream conversion unit multicasts The media stream is converted to a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream and sent to the service recipient.

The embodiment of the present invention further provides an NGN-based media stream control method, including: applying a function entity AF to request a service-based policy decision function entity SPDF for multicast control; and after processing the AF request, the SPDF proposes to the border gateway function entity BGF The request for converting the multicast media stream; after receiving the multicast media stream, the BGF converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream and sends the message to the service receiver.

The embodiment of the present invention further provides a media stream conversion device, including: a conversion request unit, configured to receive a request for converting a multicast media stream; a multicast media stream receiving unit, configured to receive a multicast media stream; and a multicast media stream conversion a unit, configured to convert the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream; and the media stream sending unit, configured to send the converted unicast media stream or the new multicast media stream to the service receiver.

The embodiment of the present invention further provides a BGF, including: a conversion request unit, configured to receive a request for converting a multicast media stream sent by an SPDF; a multicast media stream receiving unit, configured to receive a multicast media stream; and a multicast media stream conversion a unit, configured to convert the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream; and a media stream sending unit, configured to send to the service receiver Send the converted unicast media stream or new multicast media stream.

The embodiment of the present invention further provides a multicast system, including a service receiver and a media stream providing unit, where the multicast system further includes: a multicast conversion device, configured to receive a request for converting a multicast media stream, and a media stream providing unit The multicast media stream is sent, and the multicast media stream is converted into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream is sent to the service receiver; the service control unit is configured to send a request for converting the multicast media stream to the multicast conversion device. And/or, controlling the media stream providing unit to send the media stream, and/or controlling the multicast conversion device to perform the conversion of the multicast media stream, and/or performing service negotiation with the service recipient.

The embodiment of the present invention further provides an NGN-based multicast system, including a service receiver and a media stream providing unit, where the multicast system further includes: a BGF, an AF, an SPDF, and a service provider, where the BGF is used to receive the SPDF. Sending a request for converting the multicast media stream and the multicast media stream sent by the media stream providing unit, and converting the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream to be sent to the service receiver; the service provider is used by The service is negotiated with the service receiver. The AF is used to obtain the information of the multicast media stream conversion. If it is determined that the multicast media stream needs to be converted, the request for the multicast media stream conversion is initiated to the SPDF. After the request for multicast media stream conversion, it is determined whether the conversion is allowed, and if so, the BGF is requested to perform the conversion.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the received multicast media stream can be converted into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream, so that the media stream can be smoothly transmitted in the subsequent IP network until the service is received. Until now. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention can ensure that a service receiver receives a media stream normally.

DRAWINGS

1 is a schematic diagram of a system for providing a media stream service;

2 is a schematic structural view of a first embodiment of the system of the present invention;

Figure 3 is a flow chart of a first embodiment of the method of the present invention;

Figure 4 is a flow chart of a second embodiment of the method of the present invention;

Figure 5 is an architectural diagram of the RACS;

6 is a flowchart of a multicast control process according to a second embodiment of the system of the present invention; FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a multicast control process according to a third embodiment of the system of the present invention; 8 is a first specific functional architecture diagram of a multicast system applied in an NGN using IMS as a session control and service provisioning network according to an embodiment of the present invention;

9 is a flowchart of a multicast control process based on the NGN shown in FIG. 8;

10 is a second specific functional architecture diagram of a multicast system applied in an NGN using IMS as a session control and service provisioning network according to an embodiment of the present invention;

11 is a flow chart of a multicast control process based on the NGN shown in FIG.

detailed description

The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

2 is a schematic structural diagram of a multicast system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this system, there are networks or service receivers that do not support multicast. As shown in Figure 2, this system includes service provider equipment, multicast/unicast conversion equipment, and service receivers. The service providing device includes a service control unit and a media stream providing unit. The service providing device can be a media server.

The service control unit is configured to perform service negotiation with the service receiver and process the request of the service receiver, and apply control to the media stream providing unit according to the request of the service receiver, for example, send or stop sending the media stream, and the service control unit may also The multicast/unicast conversion device is controlled according to the negotiation result and actual needs of the service receiver.

The media stream providing unit is configured to provide a media stream, and the manner of providing may be multicast or unicast.

The multicast/unicast conversion device is configured to obtain a multicast media stream from the service providing device, and convert the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream according to the request of the service control unit.

The network between the service providing device and the multicast/unicast conversion device is a multicast compatible network, and the network between the multicast/unicast conversion device and the service receiver may be a multicast compatible network or may be multicast incompatible. The network, where the multicast compatible network refers to a network capable of supporting multicast media stream transmission, and the multicast incompatible network refers to a network that does not support multicast media stream transmission. In addition, the service receiver may be a service receiver that supports the multicast function, or a service receiver that does not support the multicast function.

In FIG. 2, the service receiver and the service control unit use the service signaling to perform service negotiation, for example, using a SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) message. In the process of business negotiation, determine the way the service is provided. If the result of the negotiation is that the service is to be provided in multicast mode, but the media stream needs to be multicast to unicast, the service control unit performs subsequent actions.

If the service control unit determines that the service receiver needs to provide the service in multicast mode but needs to perform multicast to unicast conversion of the media stream, the service control unit interacts with the multicast/unicast conversion device to request multicast. The unicast conversion device performs a conversion operation of the multicast media stream to the unicast media stream. In this process, the service control unit provides the media stream receiving address and port of the service receiver to the multicast/unicast conversion device, and the multicast/unicast conversion device allocates the HDP (User Datagram Protocol) port. Number and use its own IP address for multicast/unicast conversion operations. The multicast/unicast conversion device obtains the multicast media stream from the service providing device, and performs the conversion operation on the multicast media stream, that is, the source IP address is used as the source address of the data packet, and the allocated port is used as the source port; The media stream receiving address of the receiver is the destination address, and the media stream receiving port of the service receiver is used as the destination port, and the multicast media stream is converted into a unicast media stream and sent to the service receiver.

Figure 3 is a flow chart of a first embodiment of the method of the present invention. As shown in Figure 3, this embodiment includes:

Step 301: The service receiving unit sends a service request to the service control unit of the service providing device, and the request message may be a SIP message. The service control unit can determine in what way to provide services to the service recipient based on:

The service receiver provides the capability description to the service control unit during the service negotiation with the service control unit, and the capability description can indicate whether the multicast capability is supported, etc.;

The service receiver registers its own capabilities with the network by, for example, registering at the time of opening the account before using the service; or

The service control unit queries the network deployment information to obtain whether there is a network segment that does not support the multicast capability on the path of the service receiver; or

The service receiver does not provide the capability description to the service control unit during the service negotiation process, but needs to provide the device identifier or software identifier to the network, and the service control unit is based on the The service identifier or the software identifier determines the multicast support capability of the service receiver; or the service control unit acquires the indication information of whether to send the multicast media stream, and if the indication information requires the multicast media stream to be sent, the service control unit sends the service to the service receiver. Send a multicast media stream.

The service control unit may determine to provide a multicast media stream or a unicast media stream to the service recipient according to any of the above manners.

If the capability of the service receiver cannot be determined based on the above method, the following steps can be taken to perform multicast control by default.

Step S302: The service control unit returns a service response to the service receiver, and requests the service receiver to provide the address and port information of the received media stream.

Step S303: After receiving the response from the service control unit, the service receiver allocates an address and a port for receiving the media stream, and carries the allocated address and port information in the request message that is sent again to the service control unit.

Step S304: After receiving the address and port information of the media stream, the service control unit requests the multicast/unicast conversion device to perform a conversion function of the multicast media stream to the unicast media stream. The request message carries at least the multicast service address and port of the multicast media stream and the address and port of the service receiver receiving the unicast media stream.

Step S305: After receiving the conversion request sent by the service control unit, the multicast/unicast conversion device generates a response message, and sends the response message to the service control unit, which is specifically implemented by:

The multicast/unicast conversion device can establish a media stream providing unit to a multicast/unicast conversion device through a multicast routing protocol, such as a protocol-independent multicast-sparse mode (PIM-SM). Multicast media stream forwarding path.

Assign a port for sending unicast media streams.

The operation result is fed back to the service control unit, and the result of the operation may carry the address and UDP port number of the unicast media stream to be sent by the multicast/unicast conversion device. In addition, the operation result may also carry an identifier, which is used to indicate the multicast service address and port of the multicast media stream, the address and port of the service receiver receiving the unicast media stream, and the multicast/unicast The conversion device is configured to send a binding relationship between the address and the port of the unicast media stream, so as to process subsequent requests of the service receiver and the like.

Step S306: After receiving the response of the multicast/unicast conversion device, the service control unit generates a service response message to the service receiver, and sends the response message to the service receiver. The response message may carry the address and port information of the unicast media stream, and may not carry the foregoing information, and only indicates that the network side completes the service transmission preparation.

Step S307: After receiving the response message, the service receiver performs preparation for receiving the unicast media stream, and requests the service control unit to send the media stream.

Step S308: The service control unit requests the multicast/unicast conversion device to start multicast/unicast conversion, and the request may carry the address and port information of the multicast/unicast conversion device for sending the unicast media stream. The identifier described in step S304 may be carried, so that which multicast media stream is multicast/unicast converted.

Step S309: The multicast/unicast conversion device uses the address and port of the multicast/unicast conversion device for sending the unicast media stream as the source address and source port of the unicast media stream, and receives the media stream from the service receiver. The address and port are used as the destination address and destination port of the unicast media stream, and the multicast/unicast conversion device feeds back the operation result to the service control unit.

Step S310: The service control unit checks whether the media stream providing unit has started to provide the media stream, and if not, requests the media stream providing unit to start providing the media stream. After receiving the request from the service control unit, the media stream providing unit may feed back the operation result to the service control unit.

Step S311: The service control unit feeds back the operation result to the service receiver.

In this way, the multicast media stream provided by the media stream providing unit is converted by the multicast/unicast conversion device and then provided to the service receiver in a unicast media stream.

It should be noted that the foregoing embodiment is only one embodiment of the method of the present invention. In practical applications, the method of the present invention has various embodiments, for example:

The step S310 can be performed at any time after the step S301. The media stream providing unit sends the multicast media stream, and the media stream providing unit can send the media stream without receiving the address information of the service receiver. Joining the multicast party does not affect the normal operation of the multicast service. This mode is suitable for providing real-time rebroadcast in multicast mode. Business.

In step S304, if there are multiple multicast/unicast conversion devices or functional entities, the service control unit may select a multicast/unicast conversion device or a functional entity according to various conditions, for example, according to the location of the service recipient. A multicast/unicast conversion device or functional entity is selected for information, load information of the multicast/unicast conversion device, and the like.

In addition, in the actual network deployment, the multicast/unicast conversion device can be set in the border gateway of the multicast compatible network, or can be independently set in the multicast compatible network, if the multicast/unicast conversion device is set in In the border gateway of the multicast compatible network, the multicast media stream provided by the media stream providing unit to the multicast/unicast conversion device can effectively reduce the traffic of the multicast compatible network. In addition, in FIG. 3, when the service receiving unit sends a service request for the first time, the service control unit can provide the receiving address and port of the unicast media stream to the service control unit, and can simultaneously request the service start. When the service control unit sends a conversion request to the multicast/unicast conversion device for the first time, it can simultaneously request to start multicast/unicast conversion. The service control unit may return the response message only once to the service receiver, and after confirming the response message, the service receiver may interact with the media stream providing unit to request to start providing the multicast media stream.

4 is a flow chart of a second embodiment of the method of the present invention. As shown in Figure 4, this embodiment includes:

Step S401: The service receiving unit sends a service request to the service control unit, where the service clearing message can carry the address and port information of the unicast media stream.

The service control unit can determine in what manner the service is provided to the service recipient based on the following means:

The service receiver may carry its own capability description in the service request message to indicate whether the multicast capability is supported; or

Before the service receiver uses the service, it registers its own capabilities with the network through other means such as registration at the time of opening an account; or

The service receiver does not provide the capability description to the service control list during the service negotiation process. The element, but needs to provide a device identifier or a software identifier to the network, and the service control unit may determine the multicast support capability of the service receiver based on the device identifier or the software identifier.

The service control unit may determine to provide a multicast media stream or a unicast media stream to the service recipient according to any of the above methods.

If the capability of the service receiver cannot be determined based on the above manner, the following steps can be taken to perform multicast control by default.

Step S402: The service control unit requests the multicast/unicast conversion device to perform a conversion function of the multicast media stream to the unicast media stream. The request message carries at least the multicast service address and port of the multicast media stream and the address and port of the service receiver receiving the media stream, and the multicast/unicast conversion device is required to receive the corresponding multicast media stream. The multicast/unicast conversion begins.

Step S403: After receiving the conversion request sent by the service control unit, the multicast/unicast conversion device generates a response message, and sends the response message to the service control unit, which is implemented by the following steps:

The multicast/unicast conversion device can establish a multicast media stream forwarding path from the media stream providing unit to the multicast/unicast converting device through a multicast routing protocol (such as PIM-SM).

Assign a port for sending unicast media streams.

The multicast/unicast conversion device is used to send the address and port of the unicast media stream as the source address and source port of the unicast media stream, and the destination receiver receives the address and port of the media stream as the unicast media stream. Address and destination port. It should be noted that this conversion operation should start automatically after receiving the multicast media stream.

The operation result is fed back to the service control unit, and the operation result may carry the address and port information of the unicast media stream, and the operation result may also carry an identifier, which is used to indicate the multicast. The multicast service address and port of the media stream, the address and port of the service receiver receiving the media stream, and the binding relationship between the address and port used by the multicast/unicast conversion device to send the unicast media stream, so that the service receiver Subsequent requests and so on.

Step S404: The service control unit returns a service request response to the service receiver, where the response message may carry the multicast/unicast conversion device for transmitting the unicast media stream. Address and port information, but not limited to this information.

Step S405: The service receiving direction sends a confirmation message to the service control unit, and the two parties complete the service negotiation process.

Step S406: The service control unit instructs the media stream providing unit to send the multicast media stream, and the media stream providing unit may feed back the operation result to the service control unit.

It should be noted that if the service receiver can receive the multicast media stream and the multicast media stream flowing to the service receiver must be monitored by the multicast/unicast conversion device, the multicast/unicast conversion device can provide the service. The multicast media stream sent by the device is converted into a new multicast media stream, and the new multicast media stream is sent to the service receiver.

In the above embodiment, the media stream providing unit only needs to provide a multicast media stream, and does not need to perform signaling interaction with the service receiver or the multicast/unicast conversion device, and the load of the media stream providing unit is thus reduced. In addition, if both the service control unit and the media stream providing unit are disposed in a service providing device, and the service control unit negotiates with the service receiver, the content of the negotiation includes the media stream providing mode, providing the address, etc., thereby determining how to deliver the service. The receiver provides the media stream, and the ability of the service provider to control the receiver of the service is thus enhanced. In addition, if the multicast/unicast conversion device is located on the boundary of the multicast compatible network and is close to the service receiver in the physical location, the media stream providing unit can effectively provide the multicast media stream to the multicast/unicast conversion device. Reduce traffic within a multicast-compatible network

The embodiment shown in FIG. 2-4 can be applied to any one of the IP networks. The following is an example of the NGN (Next Generation Network).

Figure 5 shows the architecture of the RACS (Resource and Admission Control Subsystem). RACS is a subsystem in NGN, and the RACS architecture is described in detail in the TISPAN document ETSI ES 282 003 V<1.6.6> (2005-10). RACS provides resource and license control support for business applications.

It should be noted that in practical applications, the AF shown in Figure 5 (Application Function, application function) may not be a separate functional entity, but may be any functional entity or a collection of all functional entities that interact with RACS. For example, in the IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem), the proxy CSCF (Call Session Control Function) has the function of AF when interacting with the RACS.

The AF can obtain the information required for multicast control and perform corresponding control in multiple ways. The methods used may include:

The first mode: the terminal (ie, the service receiver) and the multicast function provider (ie, the service provider or the service providing device) negotiate the multicast service address and port used by the multicast service by using a signaling (eg, SIP message) negotiation mechanism. The negotiation signaling can be forwarded by the AF. The AF can obtain the necessary information for multicast control by viewing the service description information in the negotiation packet. For example, the SDP (Session Description Protocol) load carried in the SIP message is obtained. Multicast service address and port;

The second mode: After receiving the multicast service request sent by the terminal, the multicast function provider performs multicast control on the AF request and provides detailed information. In this mode, the negotiation message does not need to pass through the AF. Even if the negotiation message passes through the AF, the AF does not need to understand the content of the negotiation message.

In order to complete the necessary multicast control process, the AP must obtain the following information or a combination of the following information: the multicast service address and port, the address and port to send the multicast service, and the address and port of the terminal receiving the service. This information can be obtained by viewing the content of the negotiation message or by the multicast function provider.

After the AF obtains the message that needs to be controlled by the multicast, in order to ensure that the multicast media flows through the BGF (Border Gateway Function), the AF can perform multicast control in the following two ways:

The first way:

The AF request SPDF (Service-based Policy Decision Function) performs multicast control. After the request is processed by the SPDF, the SPDF makes a request to the BGF, and the request may request the BGF to allocate the converted single. Broadcast the address and port of the media stream and establish a multicast forwarding path to the multicast media stream sending address If the BGF receives the multicast media stream, the BGF converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream and sends it to the terminal. The BGF can perform the conversion in such a manner that the allocated unicast is used for sending the converted unicast. The address and port of the media stream are the source address and port of the unicast media stream, and the terminal receives the address and port of the unicast media stream as the destination address and port. If multiple terminals request the same multicast media stream, the BGF needs to establish a related terminal list for each multicast media stream. This list can be distinguished by the address and port of the terminal receiving the unicast media stream. If a new terminal is added to the multicast media stream group, the corresponding entry is added to the terminal list. If the terminal exits the media stream, the corresponding entry is deleted from the terminal list. During the media stream conversion, the BGF queries the terminal to receive the address and port of the media stream from the terminal list, and performs corresponding service forwarding.

After the BGF completes the unicast address and port assignment, the SPDF needs to report the result of the AF feedback to the AF. In this way, the AF can modify the packet of the service negotiation process according to the control result to ensure the correct completion of the service negotiation process. The status of the service negotiation packet passing through the AF. In addition, the AF may also feed back the allocation result to the requesting party that initiates the multicast control, so that the requesting party that initiates the multicast control may otherwise notify the terminal of the new service address.

The second way:

The AF requests the SPDF to perform multicast control. The request is processed by the SPDF, and the SPDF makes a request to the BGF. The request message may carry a multicast service address and port allocated by the SPDF. If the SPDF does not allocate a multicast service address and port, The BGF can be required to assign a multicast service address and port. In an actual application, the BGF may request a multicast service address and a port to be allocated to a multicast group management device, where the multicast group management device is used to uniformly manage available multicast service addresses and ports to avoid conflicts. In addition, the BGF may be required to allocate an address and a port for transmitting the converted new multicast media stream and establish a multicast forwarding path to the address and port for sending the multicast media stream, if the BGF receives the multicast. The media stream, the BGF can perform multicast conversion on the multicast media stream, and the converted result is: the converted multicast media stream is sourced by the newly allocated address and port for sending the converted new multicast media stream. Address and port, with the newly assigned multicast service address and port as the destination address and port, and send the converted new multicast media stream to the end End. The terminal can join the new multicast group because the new multicast service address and port are allocated, and the multicast service address and port can be fed back to the terminal via SPDF and AF. The terminal can use IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol). The Internet Group Management Protocol interacts with the RCEF (Resource Control Enforcement Function) and requests to join the multicast group. The RCEF can establish a multicast forwarding path to the BGF by using the multicast routing protocol.

After the BGF completes the multicast service address and port of the new multicast media stream and allocates the address and port of the converted new multicast media stream, the BGF needs to distribute the result to the AF feedback through the SPDF. Thus, the AF The packet of the service negotiation process can be modified to enable the terminal to obtain the correct service sending address, so that the correct multicast joining process can be initiated. This situation is suitable for the case where the service negotiation packet passes the AF. In addition, the AF may also feed back the allocation result to the requesting party that initiates the multicast control, so that the requesting party that initiates the multicast control may otherwise notify the terminal of the new service address.

Next, a second embodiment of the multicast system of the present invention will be described. The multicast system includes AF, SPDF, BGF, service provider and multicast function provider. The service provider and the terminal perform service negotiation, and the terminal may request the service provider to provide the multicast service. The AF may obtain the information for performing the multicast conversion in multiple manners. If the multicast media stream needs to be converted, the request is performed. SPDF performs multicast conversion; SPDF receives AJF multicast conversion request and performs policy judgment and resource check to determine whether to allow the corresponding conversion to be completed. If allowed, the BGF is requested to complete a specific multicast conversion operation; BGF is used to establish The multicast forwarding path of the multicast function provider, and converting the multicast media stream received from the multicast function provider into a unicast media stream, and sending the address to the terminal for forwarding the media stream in the process Port, etc.

Figure 6 is a flow chart of the multicast control process of the second embodiment of the above system. As shown in Figure 6, it includes:

Step S601: The AF sends a multicast control request to the SPDF, where the request carries all the information of the multicast service address and port, the address and port for transmitting the multicast service, the address and port of the terminal receiving the media stream, or the combination of the foregoing information.

Step S602: SPDF constructs a conversion request to the BGF according to the request of the AF, to request The BGF performs a multicast-to-unicast conversion operation. The request is processed by the BGF, and at least the multicast service address and port, the address and port for transmitting the multicast service, and the address and port of the terminal receiving the media stream are all required. Or a combination of the above information. After receiving the above request, the BGF allocates an address and a port for sending the unicast media stream, and prepares a multicast to unicast conversion operation. After receiving the multicast media stream, the BGF performs the following conversion to allocate the The address and port of the unicast media stream are sent as the unicast media stream source address and port, and the terminal receives the address and port of the unicast media stream as the destination address and port, and sends the converted unicast media stream to the terminal. If multiple terminals request the same multicast media stream, the BGF can establish a related terminal list for each multicast media stream. This list is distinguished by the address and port of the terminal receiving the unicast media stream. If a terminal is added, the corresponding entry is added to the table. If the terminal exits the media stream, the corresponding entry is deleted from the table. During the media stream conversion, the BGF obtains the address and port of the terminal receiving the unicast media stream from the multicast service address and the port correspondence entry of the media stream, and performs corresponding media stream forwarding.

Step S603: After completing the foregoing preparation, the BGF establishes a multicast forwarding path to the multicast function provider by using a multicast routing protocol, where the multicast routing protocol may be a PIM-SM protocol or a DVMRP (Distance Vector Multicast Routing Protocol). Off-network multicast routing protocol) or MOSPF (Multicast Open Shortest Path First).

Step S604: After completing the foregoing preparation, the BGF feeds back a response request to the SPDF, where the address and port of the allocated unicast media stream can be carried.

Step S605: The SPDF feeds back a response request to the AF, where at least the address and port of the unicast media stream allocated by the BGF are carried.

After the above steps, the AF obtains the address and port of the unicast media stream that is allocated by the BGF. The AF can perform different processing according to the service requirements, for example:

If the AF is the multicast control information obtained by analyzing the service negotiation signaling, the service address information of the negotiation packet needs to be modified, so that the terminal obtains a new service sending address. If the AF is receiving the request of other functional entities, the multicast control is performed. And, the control result needs to be fed back to the functional entity, where the result may carry the allocated service forwarding place Address and port.

After the foregoing processing, the service providing address obtained by the terminal is the address and port of the unicast media stream allocated by the BGF, and the terminal waits to receive the unicast media stream at the address and port of the receiving unicast media stream. In addition, the BGF establishes a multicast forwarding path from the multicast function provider to the BGF. When the multicast media stream is received by the BGF after being sent by the multicast function provider, the BGF performs a media stream conversion operation, that is, The address and port of the allocated unicast media stream are used as the source address and port of the unicast media stream, and the terminal receives the address and port of the unicast media stream as the destination address and port of the unicast media stream, and converts the converted single The broadcast media stream is sent to the terminal. Thus, the media stream is a multicast media stream between the multicast function provider and the BGF, and is a unicast media stream between the BGF and the terminal.

The process of establishing the BGF to the multicast function provider is performed by using the multicast routing protocol. Therefore, if multiple terminals request the same multicast media stream, the route establishment process only needs to be performed once, and subsequent requests will not be performed. Causes multiple route establishment requests. When performing a resource reservation request, the SPDF can determine whether it is the same media stream according to a certain flow stream multicast service address and port and the media stream source address and port. If yes, the same multicast is not required on the core network side. The media stream makes multiple reservation requests, which simplifies the process.

For terminals requesting the same multicast media stream, the BGF needs to assign a new address and port to each request. If there is an available address pool on the access network side, the address and port can be allocated from the available address pool. Of course, the results fed back to AF must match the results of the selection here.

In the above process, if the AF multicast control request to the RACS is performed in stages, that is, the first request only requests the RACS to prepare for multicast/unicast conversion, but does not necessarily require the BGF to join the multicast group. The multicast path establishment process from the BGF to the multicast function provider may not be performed at this time. When the AF requests the multicast/unicast conversion to start for the second time, the BGF can establish a multicast forwarding path to the multicast function provider and perform corresponding multicast/unicast conversion operations.

It should be noted that, as long as the multicast control process is completed before the session interaction is established, possible changes in the foregoing embodiments are allowed. For example, the AF multicast control request and the resource reservation process to the SPDF are delivered to the SPDF by a request. it is also fine. A third embodiment of the multicast system of the present invention will now be described. Multicast system includes

AF, SPDF, BGF, A-RACF (Access-Resource and Admission Control Function), RCEF, service provider and multicast function provider, where the service provider negotiates with the terminal The request service provider provides the multicast service; the AF can obtain the information for multicast conversion in multiple ways. If the multicast media stream needs to be converted, the SPDF is requested to perform the multicast conversion; Broadcasting the request and performing policy judgment and resource check to determine whether to allow the corresponding conversion to be completed. If allowed, the BGF is requested to complete a specific multicast conversion operation; the BGF is used to establish a multicast forwarding path to the multicast function provider; The SPDF can send a request to the A-RACF, and the A-RACF requests the RCEF to join the assigned new multicast group, the RCEF receives the request, and establishes a multicast forwarding path to the BGF using the multicast routing protocol; The multicast media stream received by the broadcast function provider is converted into a new multicast media stream and sent to the terminal, in the process It may be allocated for forwarding address and port of the media stream, and the like.

Figure 流程图 is a flow chart of the multicast control process of the third embodiment of the above system. As shown in Figure 7, it includes:

Step S701: The AF sends a multicast control request to the SPDF, where the request carries all the information of the multicast service address and port, the address and port for transmitting the multicast service, the address and port of the terminal receiving the media stream, or the combination of the foregoing information.

Step S702: The SPDF constructs a conversion request to the BGF according to the request of the AF, to request the BGF to perform a multicast-to-multicast conversion operation, and the request is processed by the BGF, where at least the multicast service address and port are carried, and the multicast service is sent. The address and the port, the terminal receiving the information of the address and port of the media stream, or the combination of the above information, the request may also carry the new multicast service address and port allocated by the SPDF. If the request does not carry the information, the SPDF may specify Assigned by BGF. After receiving the above request, the BGF allocates a new multicast service address and port. In addition, the BGF needs to allocate an address and port for sending the multicast media stream, and prepares to perform multicast to new multicast conversion operation, that is, After receiving the multicast media stream, the following is performed, where the address and port of the newly transmitted multicast media stream are allocated as the source address and port of the new multicast media stream, The assigned new multicast service address and port are the destination address and port and forward the service.

The new multicast service address and port may be allocated by the BGF, or may be requested by the BGF to other multicast group management entities. The multicast group management entity manages the allocation of the address and port of the multicast group and ensures that no conflict exists. . If a new multicast service address and port are allocated by the BGF, a mechanism is required to ensure that no conflict occurs. For example, after the BGF allocates a new multicast service address and port, the BGF registers the result with a unified entity and guarantees that there is no Other multicast service addresses and port conflicts. In addition, the above new multicast service address and port may also be allocated by the SPDF and carried to the BGF in the request message.

The allocation of the above-mentioned multicast service address and port can be called multicast group management. Whether to allocate a new multicast service address and port can be determined by SPDF or BGF, for example:

If the allocation of the multicast service address and port is managed by SPDF, the SPDF can decide whether to allocate a new multicast service address and port according to the executed policy. If the terminal is already using the same media stream, the SPDF can be not allocated. The new multicast service address and port carry the assigned multicast service address and port only in the request message.

The BGF can be used. Otherwise, a new multicast service address and port need to be allocated. The SPDF can determine whether it is the same media stream according to the multicast service address and port. For the BGF, you can determine whether the original multicast group has been added and avoid adding the same multicast group. If the SPDF explicitly indicates that the BGF does not need to join the multicast group repeatedly, this judgment is not required.

If the allocation of the multicast service address and port is managed by the BGF, even if the SPDF can request the BGF to allocate a new multicast service address and port, the BGF can still decide whether to allocate a new multicast service address and port according to the executed policy. If a terminal is already using the same media stream, you can not assign a new multicast service address and port. You only need to use the already assigned multicast service address and port. Otherwise, you need to assign a new multicast service address and A port, where the BGF can determine whether it is the same media stream according to the multicast service address and port and the service source address and port. In response to the feedback to the SPDF, the multicast service address and port used may be carried. If a new multicast service address and port are not allocated in the above process, the resource reservation process associated with this will be unnecessary, for example, by using T-RACF for the resource of the multicast media stream in the core network. Stay, this can be relatively straightforward.

Step S703: After completing the foregoing preparation, the BGF may establish a multicast forwarding path to the multicast function provider by using the multicast routing protocol.

Step S704: After completing the foregoing preparation, the BGF feeds back a response request to the SPDF, where the address and port of the allocated new multicast media stream and the new multicast service address and port may be carried.

Step S705: The SPDF responds to the AF feedback request, and may carry the assigned address and port for sending the new multicast media stream and the new multicast service address and port.

After the above steps, the AF obtains the address and port of the new multicast media stream and the new multicast service address and port allocated by the BGF. The AF can perform different processing according to the service requirements, for example: If the AF is analyzed by the service negotiation For the multicast control information obtained by the signaling, the service address information of the negotiation packet needs to be modified, so that the terminal obtains a new service sending address. If the AF is a request to receive other functional entities for multicast control, the function needs to be performed. The entity feedbacks the control result, which may carry the assigned service forwarding address and port and the new multicast service address and port.

After the foregoing processing, the service providing address obtained by the terminal is a new multicast service address and port allocated by the BGF. In addition, the BGF establishes a multicast forwarding path from the multicast function provider to the BGF. In addition, in order to establish a multicast forwarding path from RCEF to BGF, two methods can be used:

Since the terminal receives the new multicast service address and port, IGMP can be used to join the new multicast group. This request can be processed by the RCEF. Since the new multicast media stream is provided by the BGF, the RCEF uses the multicast routing protocol to establish a multicast forwarding path to the BGF.

In addition, the SPDF can also send a request to the A-RACF, and the A-RACF requests the RCEF to join the assigned new multicast group, and the RCEF receives the request and establishes a multicast forwarding path to the BGF using the multicast routing protocol.

BGF when the multicast media stream is received by the BGF after being sent from the multicast function provider Performing a media stream conversion operation, that is, using the assigned new multicast address and port as the source address and port of the new multicast media stream, and using the new multicast service address and port as the new multicast media stream. The address and port, and the converted new multicast media stream is sent. In this way, the media stream is a multicast media stream between the multicast function provider and the BGF, and is also a multicast media stream between the BGF and the terminal, ensuring that the multicast media stream is forwarded by the BGF. Of course, the BGF and the terminal The inter-multicast media stream is sent with the new multicast service address and port, and the multicast media stream passes through the RCEF.

The process of establishing the BGF to the multicast function provider is performed by using the multicast routing protocol. Therefore, if multiple terminals request the same multicast media stream, the route establishment process only needs to be performed once, and subsequent requests will not be performed. Causes multiple route establishment requests. When the resource reservation request is made, the SPDF can determine whether it is the same media stream according to the media stream multicast service address and port and the media stream source address and port. If yes, the same multicast media is not required on the core network side. The flow makes multiple reservation requests, which simplifies the process.

In the above process, if the AF multicast control request to the RACS is performed in stages, that is, the first request is only to prepare the ACS for multicast/multicast conversion, but the BGF does not necessarily need to join the multicast group. Then, the multicast path establishment process from the BGF to the multicast function provider may not be performed at this time. When the AF requests the multicast/multicast conversion to start for the second time, the BGF can establish a multicast forwarding path to the multicast function provider and perform corresponding multicast/multicast conversion operations.

It should be noted that, as long as the multicast control process is completed before the session interaction is established, possible changes in the foregoing embodiments are allowed. For example, the AF multicast control request and the resource reservation process to the SPDF are delivered to the SPDF by a request. it is also fine.

In the embodiment of the present invention, if the AF is required to obtain the multicast control information from the negotiation signaling, the AF needs to understand the negotiation signaling and can extract the related information. The AF can also modify the media description information in the signaling to match the control made. The requirements of the embodiment of the present invention for BGF are as follows:

1. In the multicast control method corresponding to the second embodiment, the BGF needs to support the multicast/unicast conversion function. In addition, the BGF (on the core network side interface) is required to support the multicast routing protocol, and the multicast routing protocol may be IGMP, PIM-SM, or PIM-DM (Protocol Independent Multicast-Dense Mode). Wait.

2. In the multicast control method corresponding to the third embodiment, the BGF needs to support the multicast/communication conversion function. In addition, the BGF (on the core network side interface) is required to support the multicast routing protocol. In addition, the BGF is required to send a new multicast media stream to the terminal access network side. This is to prevent new multicast media streams from being sent to the core network side.

The embodiment of the invention also requires the RCEF to support a multicast routing protocol for establishing a multicast forwarding path.

The following takes an NGN that uses IMS as the session control and service provisioning network as an example, and then describes an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a first specific functional architecture diagram of a multicast system application in an NGN using IMS as a session control and service provisioning network according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 8, the system includes a proxy CSCF, an SPDF, a BGF, a service CSCF, an AS (application server, ie, a service provider), a MRFC (Media Resource Function Controller), and a MRFP (Media Resource Function Processor). , media resource function processor). The AS negotiates with the terminal, and the terminal can request the AS to provide the multicast service. The proxy CSCF forwards the request and response message between the terminal and the serving CSCF. The proxy CSCF includes the function of the AF. The serving CSCF sends the service request message according to the triggering rule. Trigger to AS; The proxy CSCF obtains the information for multicast conversion in multiple ways. If the media stream needs to be multicast converted, the SPDF is requested to perform multicast conversion; and the SPDF receives the multicast conversion request of the proxy CSCF including the AF function. And performing policy judgment and resource check to determine whether to allow the corresponding conversion to be completed. If allowed, request the BGF to complete a specific multicast conversion operation; the BGF is used to establish a multicast forwarding path to the AS, and will receive from the AS. The multicast media stream is converted into a unicast media stream and sent to the terminal. In this process, an address and a port for sending the unicast media stream can be allocated. The AS is used to provide services to the terminal and perform necessary service negotiation with the terminal. Root According to the result of the negotiation, the MRFC requests the media resource; the MRFC receives the media resource request of the AS and controls the MRFP to allocate the media resource, which may include allocating resources such as the multicast service address; and the MRFP provides the multicast media to the terminal under the control of the MRFC. Flow, where the MRFP is the multicast function provider for providing multicast media streams related to the service.

9 is a flowchart of the multicast control process of the NGN shown in FIG. 8. The specific process is as follows: Step S901: The terminal initiates a service request, and the request message may be a SIP invite, if the request message carries the address and port of the media stream received by the terminal. After the request message arrives at the proxy CSCF, the proxy CSCF extracts the address and port information of the media stream received by the terminal. Otherwise, the proxy CSCF extracts the information in the subsequent negotiation packet.

Step S902: The proxy CSCF forwards the request message to the serving CSCF.

Step S903: The service CSCF triggers the request message to the AS that processes the service.

Step S904: The AS sends a media resource request to the MRFC because the service request requires the media resource.

Step S905: The MRFC applies control to the MRPP according to the request of the AS. If the service needs to be provided in a multicast manner, the MRFP determines the address of the multicast service and returns it to the

MRFC.

Step S906: The MRFC returns a result of the media resource request to the AS, where the result includes an SDP (Session Description Protocol) description, where the multicast service address and port and the address and port of the MRFP that sends the multicast service can be carried. .

Step S907: The AS sends a service response to the serving CSCF, where the response includes an SDP description, where the multicast service address and port and the address and port of the MRFP that sends the multicast service can be carried.

Step S908: The serving CSCF forwards the service response to the proxy CSCF.

Step S909: Perform a multicast control process, including the following steps:

Step S909.1: After receiving the foregoing response, the proxy CSCF extracts the multicast service address and port and the address and port of the MRFP that sends the multicast service, and may initiate a multicast control request to the SPDF in the local policy to enable the multicast media. Stream can be transferred by BGF hair;

Step S909.2 The SPDF requests the BGF to perform the conversion of the multicast media stream to the unicast media stream, that is, the BGF needs to establish a multicast forwarding path by using the multicast routing protocol, and needs to allocate a unicast UDP port number for the forwarding group. The BGF can prepare to receive the multicast media stream provided by the MRFP, and then convert the received multicast media stream into a unicast media stream and send it to the terminal. The BGF can perform such conversion, that is, the BGF IP address. The address and the assigned UDP port are used as the source address and the source port of the unicast media stream, and the IP address of the terminal and the port on which the terminal receives the media stream are used as the destination address and the destination port;

Step S909.3: The BGF establishes a multicast forwarding path to the MFP, where the multicast forwarding protocol is established by using the multicast routing protocol to the MRFP;

Step S909.4: The BGF performs a resource reservation request, and feeds back the result to the SPDF, where the result includes address and port information for sending the unicast media stream;

Step S909.5: The SPDF feeds back to the proxy CSCF the acknowledgement information for the resource reservation, where the result includes address and port information for sending the unicast media stream;

Step S909.6: The proxy CSCF ^^ modifies the SDP description in the media negotiation process according to the received information, that is, replaces the multicast service address in the SDP with the address and port information provided by the BGF for sending the unicast media stream. The port description, if needed, can also replace the source address and port information of the multicast media stream.

Step S910: The proxy CSCF feeds back the final response result to the terminal.

Steps S911-S912: Perform a further media negotiation process. When the negotiation message passes the proxy CSCF, the proxy CSCF modifies the corresponding media description information in the negotiation packet to ensure the negotiation succeeds. The BGF's conversion operation can only begin when all the negotiation processes have been successfully completed and further instructions are received.

Step S913: The MRFC further controls the MRFP.

After the negotiation process is complete, the media stream will be sent to the BGF in multicast mode, and the BGF will convert it to a unicast media stream and send it to the terminal.

FIG. 10 is a second specific functional architecture diagram of a multicast system applied in an NGN using IMS as a session control and service provisioning network according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 10, this system includes terminal, proxy CSCF, SPDF, BGF, A-RACF, RCEF, service. CSCF, AS, MRFC and MRFP. The AS and the terminal perform service negotiation, and the terminal may request the AS to provide the multicast service; the proxy CSCF forwards the request and response message between the terminal and the serving CSCF, and the proxy CSCF includes the function of the AF; the service CSCF sends the service request message according to the triggering rule. Trigger to; the proxy CSCF obtains the information for multicast conversion in multiple ways. If the media stream needs to be multicast converted, the SPDF is requested to perform multicast conversion; the SPDF receives the multicast conversion request of the proxy CSCF including the AF function, and Perform policy judgment and resource check to determine whether to allow the corresponding conversion to be completed. If allowed, request the BGF to complete the specific multicast conversion operation; BGF is used to establish a multicast forwarding path to the AS; SPDF sends a request to the A-RACF, The RCEF is requested by the A-RACF to join the assigned new multicast group, the RCEF receives the request, and establishes a multicast forwarding path to the BGF by using the multicast routing protocol; the BGF converts the multicast media stream received from the AS into The new multicast media stream is sent to the terminal. In this process, the address and port for forwarding the media stream can be allocated. Providing a service to the terminal, and performing necessary service negotiation with the terminal, and submitting a media resource request to the MRFC according to the result of the negotiation; the MRFC receives the media resource request of the AS, and controls the MRFP to allocate the media resource, which may include allocating the multicast service. Address and other resources; The MRFP provides a multicast media stream to the terminal under the control of the MRFC, where the MRFP is a multicast function provider for providing a multicast media stream related to the service.

11 is a flow chart of the multicast control process of the NGN shown in FIG. 10, and the specific process is:

Step S1101: The terminal initiates a service request, and the request message may be a SIP invite. If the request message carries the address and port information of the media stream, the proxy CSCF extracts the address and port of the media stream received by the terminal after the request message arrives at the proxy CSCF. Information, otherwise, the proxy CSCF extracts this information in subsequent negotiation messages.

Step S1102: The proxy CSCF forwards the request message to the serving CSCF.

Step S1103: The service CSCF triggers the request message to the AS that processes the service. Step S1104: Since the service request requires media resources, the AS initiates a media resource request to the MRFC.

Step S1105: The MRFC applies control to the MRFP according to the request of the AS, if necessary To provide services in multicast mode, the MRFP determines the address of the multicast service and returns it to MRFCo.

Step S1106: The MRFC returns a result of the media resource request to the AS, where the result includes an SDP description, where the multicast service address and port and the address and port of the MRFP that sends the multicast service may be carried.

Step S1107: The AS sends a service response to the serving CSCF, where the response includes an SDP description, where the multicast service address and port and the address and port of the MRPP that sends the multicast service can be carried.

Step S1108: The serving CSCF forwards the service response to the proxy CSCF.

Step S1109: Perform a multicast control process, including the following steps:

Step S1109.1: After receiving the foregoing response, the proxy CSCF extracts the multicast service address and port and the address and port of the MRFP that sends the multicast service, and can initiate a multicast control request to the SPDF according to the local policy, so that the group The broadcast media stream can be forwarded through the BGF;

Step S1109.2: The SPDF requests the BGF to perform the conversion of the multicast media stream to the new multicast media stream. The new multicast service address and port can be allocated by the SPDF or the BGF, and the BGF needs to allocate a port number for forwarding. Multicast media stream, so that the BGF can prepare to receive the multicast media stream provided by the MRFP, and then convert the received multicast media stream into a new multicast media stream and send it to the terminal, and the BGF can perform such conversion, that is, The IP address of the BGF and the port for forwarding the multicast media stream are used as the source address and source port of the new multicast media stream, and the newly assigned multicast service address and the newly assigned multicast service port are used as new groups. The destination address and destination port of the broadcast media stream;

Step S1109.3: The BGF establishes a multicast forwarding path to the MRFP. The multicast routing protocol is used to establish a multicast forwarding path to the MRFP. If the multicast group has been added, the BGF does not need to be added repeatedly.

Step S1109.4: The BGF performs a resource reservation request, and feeds back a result to the SPDF, where the result includes address and port information for transmitting a new multicast media stream; if the new multicast service address and port are allocated by the BGF , here also need to carry the newly assigned multicast service address and port; Step S1109.5: The SPDF feeds back the confirmation information of the resource reservation to the proxy CSCF, where the result includes the address and port information for sending the new multicast media stream, and the new multicast service address and port information;

Step S1109.6: The proxy CSCF needs to modify the SDP description in the media negotiation process according to the received information, that is, replace the multicast service address and port description in the SDP with the new multicast service address and port information, and if necessary, The source address and port information of the multicast media stream can be replaced.

Step S1110: The proxy CSCF feeds back the final response result to the terminal.

Steps S1111-S1112: Perform a further media negotiation process. When the negotiation message passes the proxy CSCF, the proxy CSCF modifies the corresponding media description information in the negotiation packet to ensure the negotiation succeeds. The BGF's conversion operation can begin only after all negotiation processes have been successfully completed and further instructions are received.

Step S1113: The MRFC further controls the MRFP.

After the negotiation process is completed, the terminal uses IGMP to join the new multicast group, and the request is processed by the RCEF. The RCEF then uses the multicast routing protocol to establish a multicast forwarding path to the BGF. After the forwarding path is established, the media stream will be The multicast mode is sent to the BGF, and the BGF converts it to a new multicast media stream. The new multicast media is sent to the terminal through the RCEF.

In the above embodiment, if the IP network between the RCEF and the BGF is compatible with the multicast media stream, and the IP network between the BGF and the multicast function provider or the MRFP is also compatible with the multicast media stream, the multicast function is provided. The multicast media stream provided by the party or the MRFP to the service receiver or terminal must pass through the BGF, and the BGF can convert the multicast media stream into a new multicast media stream, and the service receiver or terminal can also receive the multicast. The media stream, in this way, the BGF can control the resources of the service receiver or the terminal, and can also provide accurate metrics (for example, the traffic M of the multicast media stream is the basis for charging).

In addition, the embodiment of the present invention further provides a media stream control device, including: a conversion request unit, configured to receive a request for converting a multicast media stream; and a multicast media stream receiving unit, configured to receive a multicast media stream; a media stream conversion unit, configured to convert the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream; and a media stream sending unit, configured to send to the service receiver Send the converted unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream.

The media stream control device may further include: an address and port information receiving unit, configured to receive, before the multicast media stream converting unit converts the multicast media stream into the unicast media stream, an address used by the service receiver to receive the unicast media stream And port information, and/or, receiving the multicast service address and port information used by the service receiver to receive the multicast media stream.

The media flow control device may further include: an address and a port unit, configured to allocate the unicast media before the multicast media stream conversion unit converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream. The address and port of the stream, or the multicast service address and port to which the new multicast media stream is allocated, and the address and port used to send the new multicast media stream.

The above is only the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Any modifications, equivalents, improvements, etc., which are made within the spirit and principles of the present invention, should be included. It is within the scope of the invention.

Claims

Rights request

A media stream control method, comprising:

The service control unit sends a request for converting the multicast media stream to the multicast media stream conversion unit;

After receiving the multicast media stream, the multicast media stream converting unit converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream and sends the multicast media stream to the service receiver.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein the service control unit sends a request for converting the multicast media stream to the multicast media stream conversion unit, further comprising: determining whether to send the multicast media stream to the service receiver. .

The media stream control method according to claim 2, wherein the service control unit determines whether to send the multicast media stream to the service receiver by at least one of the following: the service control unit checks the service negotiation message from the service receiver Whether the command carries a description supporting the multicast media stream, and if yes, determining to send the multicast media stream to the service receiver;

The service control unit checks whether the service receiver registers information supporting the multicast media stream with the network, and if yes, determines to send the multicast media stream to the service receiver;

The service control unit queries the network deployment information, and if it is determined that all network segments on the path for transmitting the media stream to the service receiver support the multicast media stream, determining to send the multicast media stream to the service receiver;

If the service control unit receives the device identifier or the software identifier from the service provider, and the identifier indicates that the service receiver supports the multicast media stream, determining to send the multicast media stream to the service receiver;

The service control unit acquires indication information of whether to send the multicast media stream, and if the indication information requests to send the multicast media stream, the service control unit sends the multicast media stream to the service receiver.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein the multicast media stream converting unit further comprises: the service control unit providing the multicast service address of the multicast media stream sent by the service provider before receiving the multicast media stream And port information.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, characterized in that the multicast media stream Before the converting unit receives the multicast media stream, the method further includes: the multicast media stream converting unit establishing a multicast media stream forwarding path from the service provider to before converting the multicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein before the multicast media stream converting unit converts the multicast media stream into the unicast media stream, the method further comprises: the service control unit providing the service receiver to receive the unicast media stream Address and port information, and/or multicast service address and port information for the multicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein the multicast media stream conversion unit further comprises: multicast media stream conversion before converting the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream. The unit allocates an address and port for transmitting a unicast media stream, or a multicast service address and port for allocating a new multicast media stream and an address and port for transmitting a new multicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein the multicast media stream converting unit converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream in a manner that the multicast media stream converting unit allocates The address and port of the unicast media stream are sent as the source address and the source port of the unicast media stream, and the obtained service receiver receives the address and port of the unicast media stream as the destination address and destination port of the unicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein the multicast media stream converting unit converts the multicast media stream into a new multicast media stream in the following manner: the multicast media stream converting unit allocates The address and port used to send the new multicast media stream are used as the source address and source port of the new multicast media stream, and the multicast service address and port of the assigned new multicast media stream are used as the new multicast media stream. Destination address and destination port.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein the multicast media stream converting unit further comprises: the service control unit receiving the service to the service before transmitting the unicast media stream or the new multicast media stream to the service receiver The party provides the source address and port information for sending the unicast media stream, or provides the multicast service address and port information of the new multicast media stream and/or the address and port information of the new multicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 10, wherein the service receiver receives the multicast service address and port information of the new multicast media stream, and further includes: the service receiver according to the new multicast media stream Multicast service address and port information, added to the new Multicast group of multicast media streams.

The media stream control method according to claim 1, wherein: if there are multiple multicast media stream converting units, the service control unit selects a multicast media stream converting unit and selects the multicast media stream. The conversion unit issues a request to convert the multicast media stream.

13. A media stream control method based on a next generation network NGN, characterized by comprising:

Application function entity AF requests the service-based policy decision function entity SPDF for multicast control;

After processing the AF request, the SPDF proposes to the border gateway function entity BGF to convert the multicast media stream;

After receiving the multicast media stream, the BGF converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream and sends it to the service receiver.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein the AF requesting the multicast control based on the service policy decision function entity SPDF further comprises: the AF acquiring information that needs to be subjected to multicast control, wherein the AF is in accordance with the following At least one way to obtain information that requires multicast control:

The AF view the service description information in the service negotiation packet between the service receiver and the service provider, and obtain the information for performing multicast control.

After receiving the multicast service request from the service receiver, the service provider requests multicast control from the AF and provides information for multicast control.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein: AF requests the SPDF to perform multicast control or the SPDF proposes to the BGF to convert the multicast media stream, and provides at least one of the following information to the SPDF or the BGF. :

The service provider is configured to send address and port information of the multicast media stream;

The multicast service address and port information of the multicast media stream sent by the service provider; the service receiver receives the address and port information of the media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein: the AF requests the SPDF to perform multicast control or the SPDF proposes to the BGF to convert the multicast media stream. If the SPDF does not provide address and port information to the BGF, the SPDF specifies that the address and port are assigned by the BGF, or the BGF requests the functional entity managing the multicast group to obtain the address and port information.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein before the BGF sends the new multicast media stream to the service receiver, the BGF further comprises: the BGF establishing a multicast forwarding path from the resource control execution function RCEF to the BGF.

The media stream control method according to claim 17, wherein the multicast forwarding path is established in the following manner:

The service receiver requests to join the new multicast group;

After processing the request, the RCEF uses the multicast routing protocol to establish a multicast forwarding path to the BGF.

SPDF sends a request to the access-resource and admission control function A-RACF; the A-RACF requests the RCEF to join the new multicast group;

The RCEF uses the multicast routing protocol to establish a multicast forwarding path to the BGF.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein: if a plurality of service receivers request the same multicast media stream, the BGF establishes a service receiver list for the multicast media stream, where the service receives The party list uses the address and port information of the media stream received by the service receiver as the basis for distinguishing between the service receivers.

The media stream control method according to claim 14, wherein: the service provider is an application server AS, and the media stream function processor MRFP is provided to the service receiver.

The media stream control method according to claim 21, wherein before the BGF performs the multicast media stream conversion, the method further includes:

The proxy CSCF receives the service request initiated by the service receiver, and extracts the address and port information of the media stream received by the service receiver;

The proxy CSCF forwards the service request to the service CSCF;

The service CSCF triggers the service request to the AS; If the service request requires a media resource, the AS initiates a media resource request to the media resource function controller MRFC;

The MRFC applies control to the MRFP, and the MRFP determines the multicast service address and port and returns the multicast service address and port information to the MRFC;

The MRFC returns a media resource request balance to the AS, where the multicast service address and port information and/or the address and port information of the multicast media stream sent by the MRFP are carried;

The AS returns a service response to the serving CSCF, which carries the multicast service address and port information and/or the address and port information of the MRFP to send the multicast media stream;

The serving CSCF forwards the service response to the proxy CSCF.

The media stream control method according to claim 22, wherein before the BGF performs the multicast media stream conversion, the method further includes:

After receiving the service response forwarded by the CSCF, the CSCF extracts the multicast service address and port information and/or the address and port information of the multicast media stream sent by the MRFP, and initiates a multicast control request to the SPDF;

SPDF requests the BGF to convert the multicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein the BGF converts the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream in the following manner: the address and port allocated for transmitting the unicast media stream are used as a single The source address and the source port of the broadcast media stream, and the obtained service receiver receives the address and port of the unicast media stream as the destination address and destination port of the unicast media stream.

The media stream control method according to claim 13, wherein the BGF converts the multicast media stream into a new multicast media stream in the following manner: an address to be allocated for transmitting a new multicast media stream And the port is used as the source address and source port of the new multicast media stream, and the multicast service address and port of the new multicast media stream to be allocated are used as the destination address and destination port of the new multicast media stream.

26. A media stream conversion device, comprising:

a conversion request unit, configured to receive a request for converting a multicast media stream;

a multicast media stream receiving unit, configured to receive a multicast media stream;

a multicast media stream converting unit, configured to receive the group received by the multicast media stream receiving unit Converting the broadcast media stream to a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream;

And a media stream sending unit, configured to send the converted unicast media stream or the new multicast media stream to the service receiver.

The media stream conversion device according to claim 26, further comprising: an address and port information receiving unit, configured to receive the multicast media stream conversion unit before converting the multicast media stream to the unicast media stream The service receiver is configured to receive the address and port information of the unicast media stream, and/or receive the multicast service address and port information used by the service receiver to receive the multicast media stream.

28. The media stream conversion device of claim 26, further comprising: an address and port unit for converting the multicast media stream to a unicast media stream or a new group at the multicast media stream conversion unit Before the media stream is broadcast, the address and port for transmitting the unicast media stream are allocated, or the multicast service address and port of the new multicast media stream are allocated, and the address and port for transmitting the new multicast media stream.

29. A BGF, characterized by comprising:

a conversion request unit, configured to receive a request for converting a multicast media stream sent by the SPDF, and a multicast media stream receiving unit, configured to receive the multicast media stream;

a multicast media stream conversion unit, configured to convert the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream;

The BGF of claim 29, further comprising: a multicast routing protocol support unit, configured to support a multicast routing protocol.

31. A multicast system, comprising a service receiver and a media stream providing unit, further comprising:

The multicast conversion device is configured to receive the request for converting the multicast media stream and the multicast media stream sent by the media stream providing unit, and convert the multicast media stream into a unicast media stream or a new multicast media stream to the service interface. Affected by the party;

a service control unit, configured to send a request for converting the multicast media stream to the multicast conversion device, and/or, control the media stream providing unit to send the media stream, and/or control the multicast conversion The device performs the conversion of the multicast media stream, and/or performs service negotiation with the service receiver.

32. An NGN-based multicast system, including a service receiver and a media stream providing unit, further comprising: a BGF, an AF, an SPDF, and a service provider, where

The BGF is configured to receive the request for converting the multicast media stream sent by the SPDF and the multicast media stream sent by the media stream providing unit, and convert the multicast media stream into a unicast body stream or a new multicast media stream and send the message to the service receiver. ;

The service provider is used for business negotiation with the service receiver;

The AF is configured to obtain information about the conversion of the multicast media stream, and if it is determined that the multicast media stream needs to be converted, initiate a request for the multicast media stream conversion to the SPDF;

After receiving the request initiated by the AF for multicast media stream conversion, the SPDF determines whether the conversion is allowed, and if so, requests the BGF to perform the conversion.

33. The multicast system of claim 32, further comprising: A-RACF and RCEF, wherein

The A-RACF is configured to receive a request from the service recipient sent by the SPDF to join the new multicast group, and submit the request to the RCEF;

After receiving the request from A-RACF, the RCEF uses the multicast routing protocol to establish a multicast forwarding path to the BGF.

The multicast system according to claim 32, wherein: the AF is a proxy CSCF, the service provider is an AS, and the media stream providing unit is an MRFP, and the multicast system further includes: a service CSCF and an MRFC, where

The proxy CSCF is used to forward request and response messages between the service recipient and the serving CSCF;

After the AS negotiates with the service receiver, it submits a media resource request to the MRFC according to the result of the negotiation;

After receiving the media resource request of the AS, the MRFC controls the MRFP to perform media resource allocation;

The MRFP is used to provide a multicast media stream to a service recipient under the control of the MRPC.

35. The multicast system of claim 34, wherein: the BGF supports a multicast routing protocol.