Apparatus, base station, and method

Abstract

A device (100) according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises: a reception processing unit (135) for receiving measurement gap setting information including information for indicating that a measurement gap is a preset measurement gap; and a control unit (133) that switches the state of the preset measurement gap to one of activated and deactivated in accordance with switching of a bandwidth part (BWP). In a case where a measurement gap is not required for the measurement at the switched bandwidth part, the control unit switches the state of the preset measurement gap to deactivated.

Description

Cross-reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-171754 filed on October 20, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus, a base station, and a method.

Background Art

[0003] In Release 17 of 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), a work item on Measurement Gap Enhancement has been launched for the purpose of improving the efficiency of RRM (Radio Resource Management) functions in user equipment (UE) and the network (Non-Patent Document 1).

[0004] For example, Non-Patent Documents 2 to 6 describe discussions on signaling and procedures for a P-MG (Pre-configured Measurement Gap) different from the conventional MG (Legacy Measurement Gap). Unlike the conventional MG, the P-MG can be activated or deactivated.

[0005] In particular, Non-Patent Document 5 describes discussions on the relationship between the conventional MG and the P-MG, and criteria for activating or deactivating the P-MG.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0006]

Non-Patent Document 1

[0224] NR_MG_Part_2” [Non-Patent Document 6] 3GPP TSG-RAN WG4 Meeting #99-e, Electronic Meeting, 19 - 27 May 2021, R4-2108034, Intel Corporation, “WF on R17 NR MG enhancements - Pre-configured MG” [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] As a result of the inventor's detailed examination, the following problems were identified. Specifically, when switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) occurs, if the activation status of the P-MG (e.g., activated or deactivated) is managed between the network (e.g., base station) and the UE, the efficiency of signaling may decrease. For example, if signaling is used to manage the activation status of the P-MG between the network and the UE, additional signaling will be required. Furthermore, as discussed in Non-Patent Document 5, there is currently no conclusion regarding the criteria for activating or deactivating the P-MG.

[0008] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a device, base station, and method that enables suppression of signaling efficiency degradation while aligning the activation status of the MG between the network and the UE.

[0009] An apparatus (100) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a receiving processing unit (135) that receives measurement gap setting information including information to indicate that the measurement gap is a pre-set measurement gap, and a control unit (133) that switches the state of the pre-set measurement gap to either active or deactive in accordance with the switching of the bandwidth part (BWP), wherein the control unit switches the state of the pre-set measurement gap to deactive if a measurement gap is not required for the measurement in the bandwidth part after the switch.

[0010] A base station (200) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an information acquisition unit (241) that acquires measurement gap setting information including information to indicate that the measurement gap is a pre-set measurement gap, and a transmission processing unit (245) that transmits the acquired measurement gap setting information. The switching of the bandwidth part (BWP) is determined, and in accordance with the switching of the bandwidth part, the state of the pre-set measurement gap is switched to either active or deactive. If a measurement gap is not required for measurement in the bandwidth part after the switch, the state of the pre-set measurement gap is switched to deactive.

[0011] A method performed by an apparatus (100) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes receiving measurement gap setting information, which includes information to indicate that the measurement gap is a pre-set measurement gap; switching the state of the pre-set measurement gap to either active or deactive in response to switching of a bandwidth part (BWP); and switching the state of the pre-set measurement gap to deactive if a measurement gap is not required for the measurement in the bandwidth part after the switch.

[0012] A method performed by a base station (200) according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes acquiring measurement gap setting information, which includes information to indicate that the measurement gap is a pre-configured measurement gap, and transmitting the acquired measurement gap setting information, wherein switching of the bandwidth part (BWP) is determined, and in accordance with the switching of the bandwidth part, the state of the pre-configured measurement gap is switched to either active or deactive, and if a measurement gap is not required for the measurement in the bandwidth part after the switch, the state of the pre-configured measurement gap is switched to deactive.

[0013] This disclosure makes it possible to suppress a decrease in signaling efficiency while aligning the activation status of the MG between the network and the UE. However, this disclosure may also produce other effects in lieu of or in conjunction with this effect. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of the system according to the embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a user device according to the embodiments of this disclosure that measures a signal using an MG. [Figure 3] This block diagram shows an example of a schematic functional configuration of a user device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows an example of a schematic hardware configuration of user equipment according to an embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5] This block diagram shows an example of a schematic functional configuration of a base station according to the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 6] This block diagram shows an example of a schematic hardware configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This figure illustrates an example of MG setting information according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 8] This figure illustrates examples of common setting information and P-MG setting information included in the MG setting information according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates an example of a schematic flow of processing according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 10] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the general flow of MG settings according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 11] This is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the MG settings according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 12]This is a diagram for explaining an example of P-MG setting information and P-MG status information included in MG setting information according to a first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] This is a diagram for explaining a specific example of MG setting according to a first modification of the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] This is a flowchart for explaining an example of a general flow of processing according to a first operation example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] This is a flowchart for explaining an example of a general flow of determination processing of the necessity of MG according to a first operation example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] This is a diagram for explaining a specific example of MG setting according to a first operation example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] This is a diagram for explaining an example of MG setting information according to a second operation example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] This is a flowchart for explaining an example of a general flow of processing according to a second operation example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] This is a diagram for explaining a specific example of MG setting according to a second operation example of the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and drawings, for elements that can be similarly described, duplicate description may be omitted by attaching the same reference numerals. [[ID=X30]]

[0016] The description will be made in the following order. 1. System configuration 2. Configuration of user equipment 3. Configuration of base station 4. First embodiment (MG setting information about P-MG) 5. Second embodiment (Management of activation state of MG)

[0017] <1. System Configuration> Referring to Figure 1, an example of the configuration of System 1 according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Referring to Figure 1, System 1 includes user equipment 100 and a base station 200.

[0018] For example, System 1 is a system that conforms to a 3GPP Technical Specification (TS). More specifically, for example, System 1 is a system that conforms to a 5G or NR (New Radio) TS. Of course, System 1 is not limited to this example. System 1 may be a system that conforms to other 3GPP TSs. For example, System 1 may be a system that conforms to an LTE, LTE-A (LTE Advanced), or 4G TS, and base station 200 may be an eNB (evolved Node B). Alternatively, base station 200 may be an ng-eNB. As another example, System 1 may be a system that conforms to a 3G TS, and base station 200 may be a Node B. As yet another example, System 1 may be a system that conforms to a next-generation (e.g., 6G) TS. Alternatively, System 1 may be a system that conforms to a TS of another standardization body for mobile communications.

[0019] (1) UE100 UE100 communicates with the base station. For example, UE100 communicates with base station 200 when it is located within the coverage area 10 of base station 200.

[0020] For example, UE100 communicates with a base station (e.g., base station 200) using a Radio Access Network (RAN) protocol stack. For example, this protocol stack includes RRC (Radio Resource Control), SDAP (Service Data Adaptation Protocol), PDCP (Packet Data Convergence Protocol), RLC (Radio Link Control), MAC (Medium Access Control), and physical (PHY) layer protocols. Alternatively, the above protocol stack may include only some of these protocols, rather than all of them.

[0021] Furthermore, the UE100 uses a Magnet Analyzer (MG) to measure signals transmitted from base stations. The MG can be configured for inter-frequency, inter-system, or intra-frequency measurements. The UE100 switches frequencies or systems to measure signals during the configured MG period.

[0022] For example, referring to the example in Figure 2, UE100 can measure signals from base station 200B, which has a different communication frequency than the connected base station 200A. Specifically, UE100 does not communicate with base station 200A for a set MG period, receives signals transmitted from base station 200B, and measures the reception quality of those signals. For example, if the reception quality of the signal from base station 200B is better than the reception quality of the signal from base station 200A, UE100 may switch the connection from base station 200A to base station 200B.

[0023] (2) Base station 200 Base station 200 is a node in the RAN and communicates with UEs (e.g., UE100) located within the coverage area 10 of base station 200.

[0024] For example, base station 200 communicates with UE (e.g., UE100) using the protocol stack described above.

[0025] For example, base station 200 is a gNB. A gNB is a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE and is connected to the 5GC (5G Core Network) via an NG interface. Alternatively, base station 200 may be an en-gNB. An en-gNB is a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE and operates as a secondary node in EN-DC (E-UTRA-NR Dual Connectivity).

[0026] The base station 200 may include multiple nodes. These multiple nodes may include a first node that hosts the higher layer included in the protocol stack and a second node that hosts the lower layer included in the protocol stack. The higher layer may include RRC, SDAP, and PDCP, and the lower layer may include RLC, MAC, and PHY layers. The first node may be a CU (central unit), and the second node may be a DU (Distributed Unit). The multiple nodes may also include a third node that performs processing below the PHY layer, and the second node may perform processing above the PHY layer. The third node may be a RU (Radio Unit).

[0027] Alternatively, base station 200 may be one of the above-mentioned multiple nodes, or it may be connected to other units among the above-mentioned multiple nodes.

[0028] Base station 200 may be an IAB (Integrated Access and Backhaul) donor or IAB node.

[0029] <2. User Equipment Configuration> An example of the configuration of UE100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0030] (1) Functional configuration First, an example of the functional configuration of the UE100 according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 3. Referring to Figure 3, the UE100 comprises a wireless communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a processing unit 130.

[0031] The wireless communication unit 110 transmits and receives signals wirelessly. For example, the wireless communication unit 110 receives a signal from a base station and transmits a signal to the base station. For example, the wireless communication unit 110 receives a signal from another UE and transmits a signal to another UE.

[0032] The memory unit 120 stores various information for the UE100.

[0033] The processing unit 130 provides various functions of the UE100. The processing unit 130 includes an information acquisition unit 131, a control unit 133, and a communication processing unit 135. The processing unit 130 may also include other components besides these. That is, the processing unit 130 can perform operations other than those of these components. The specific operations of the information acquisition unit 131, the control unit 133, and the communication processing unit 135 will be described in detail later.

[0034] For example, the processing unit 130 (communication processing unit 135) communicates with a base station (e.g., base station 200) or another UE via the wireless communication unit 110.

[0035] (2) Hardware configuration Next, an example of the hardware configuration of UE100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 4. Referring to Figure 4, UE100 comprises an antenna 181, an RF (radio frequency) circuit 183, a processor 185, a memory 187, and a storage 189.

[0036] Antenna 181 converts a signal into radio waves and radiates the radio waves into space. Antenna 181 also receives radio waves in space and converts the radio waves into signals. Antenna 181 may include a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna, or it may be a single antenna for both transmitting and receiving. Antenna 181 may be a directional antenna and may include multiple antenna elements.

[0037] The RF circuit 183 performs analog processing on the signals transmitted and received via the antenna 181. The RF circuit 183 may include a high-frequency filter, amplifier, modulator, and low-pass filter, etc.

[0038] The processor 185 performs digital processing of signals transmitted and received via the antenna 181 and the RF circuit 183. This digital processing includes processing of the RAN protocol stack. The processor 185 may include multiple processors or may be a single processor. The multiple processors may include a baseband processor that performs the digital processing and one or more processors that perform other processing.

[0039] Memory 187 stores programs executed by the processor 185, parameters related to those programs, and various other information. Memory 187 may include at least one of ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), and flash memory. All or part of memory 187 may be contained within the processor 185.

[0040] Storage 189 stores various types of information. Storage 189 may include at least one of an SSD (Solid State Drive) and an HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

[0041] The wireless communication unit 110 may be implemented by an antenna 181 and an RF circuit 183. The storage unit 120 may be implemented by a storage device 189. The processing unit 130 may be implemented by a processor 185 and a memory 187.

[0042] The processing unit 130 may be implemented by a System on Chip (SoC) including a processor 185 and memory 187. The SoC may also include an RF circuit 183, and the wireless communication unit 110 may also be implemented by the SoC.

[0043] Considering the above hardware configuration, the UE100 may include a memory for storing a program (i.e., memory 187) and one or more processors capable of executing the program (i.e., processor 185), and these one or more processors may execute the program to perform the operation of the processing unit 130. The program may also be a program that causes the processor to perform the operation of the processing unit 130.

[0044] <3. Base station configuration> An example of the configuration of a base station 200 according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6.

[0045] (1) Functional configuration First, an example of the functional configuration of a base station 200 according to the embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figure 5. Referring to Figure 5, the base station 200 includes a wireless communication unit 210, a network communication unit 220, a storage unit 230, and a processing unit 240.

[0046] The wireless communication unit 210 transmits and receives signals wirelessly. For example, the wireless communication unit 210 receives a signal from the UE and transmits a signal to the UE.

[0047] The network communication unit 220 receives signals from the network and transmits signals to the network.

[0048] The memory unit 230 stores various information for the base station 200.

[0049] The processing unit 240 provides various functions of the base station 200. The processing unit 240 includes an information acquisition unit 241, a control unit 243, and a communication processing unit 245. The processing unit 240 may also include other components besides these. That is, the processing unit 240 can perform operations other than those of these components. The specific operations of the information acquisition unit 241, the control unit 243, and the communication processing unit 245 will be described in detail later.

[0050] For example, the processing unit 240 (communication processing unit 245) communicates with the UE (e.g., UE100) via the wireless communication unit 210. For example, the processing unit 240 (communication processing unit 245) communicates with other nodes (e.g., network nodes in the core network or other base stations) via the network communication unit 220.

[0051] (2) Hardware configuration Next, with reference to Figure 6, an example of the hardware configuration of a base station 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. Referring to Figure 6, the base station 200 comprises an antenna 281, an RF circuit 283, a network interface 285, a processor 287, a memory 289, and a storage 291.

[0052] Antenna 281 converts a signal into radio waves and radiates the radio waves into space. Antenna 281 also receives radio waves in space and converts the radio waves into signals. Antenna 281 may include a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna, or it may be a single antenna for both transmitting and receiving. Antenna 281 may be a directional antenna and may include multiple antenna elements.

[0053] The RF circuit 283 performs analog processing on the signals transmitted and received via the antenna 281. The RF circuit 283 may include a high-frequency filter, amplifier, modulator, and low-pass filter, etc.

[0054] Network interface 285 is, for example, a network adapter that sends signals to and receives signals from the network.

[0055] Processor 287 performs digital processing of signals transmitted and received via antenna 281 and RF circuit 283. This digital processing includes processing of the RAN protocol stack. Processor 287 also processes signals transmitted and received via network interface 285. Processor 287 may include multiple processors or may be a single processor. The multiple processors may include a baseband processor that performs the digital processing and one or more processors that perform other processing.

[0056] Memory 289 stores programs executed by the processor 287, parameters related to those programs, and various other information. Memory 289 may include at least one of ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, RAM, and flash memory. All or part of memory 289 may be contained within the processor 287.

[0057] The storage device 291 stores various types of information. The storage device 291 may include at least one of an SSD and an HDD.

[0058] The wireless communication unit 210 may be implemented by an antenna 281 and an RF circuit 283. The network communication unit 220 may be implemented by a network interface 285. The storage unit 230 may be implemented by a storage device 291. The processing unit 240 may be implemented by a processor 287 and a memory 289.

[0059] Part or all of the processing unit 240 may be virtualized. In other words, part or all of the processing unit 240 may be implemented as a virtual machine. In this case, part or all of the processing unit 240 may operate as a virtual machine on a physical machine (i.e., hardware) including a processor and memory, and a hypervisor.

[0060] Considering the above hardware configuration, the base station 200 may include a memory for storing a program (i.e., memory 289) and one or more processors (i.e., processor 287) capable of executing the program, and these one or more processors may execute the program to perform the operation of the processing unit 240. The program may also be a program that causes the processor to perform the operation of the processing unit 240.

[0061] <4. First Embodiment> A first embodiment of this disclosure will be described. In the first embodiment, the MG setting information for P-MG is shared with the MG setting information for conventional MG.

[0062] <4-1. Example of Operation> An example of the operation of the UE100 and base station 200 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 10.

[0063] (1) Operation of UE100 The UE100 receives MG configuration information from the base station 200. The UE100 configures the MG based on the common configuration information and P-MG configuration information included in the received MG configuration information. The operation of the UE100 and related information will be described in detail below.

[0064] (1-1) Receive MG setting information UE100 receives MG setting information from base station 200. Specifically, UE100 (communication processing unit 135) receives an RRC message containing MG setting information from base station 200. UE100 (information acquisition unit 131) acquires the MG setting information contained in the RRC message.

[0065] The MG configuration information includes common configuration information used in the conventional MG (first MG) and P-MG (second MG), as well as P-MG configuration information indicating that P-MG is configured. Specifically, the P-MG configuration information indicates the activation or deactivation of P-MG when P-MG is configured. Conversely, the P-MG configuration information indicates that P-MG is not configured when P-MG is not configured.

[0066] For example, MG configuration information is a MeasGapConfig, which is an RRC IE (Information Element). Common configuration information includes at least one parameter from the GapConfig set in MeasGapConfig. P-MG configuration information is also included in GapConfig. MeasGapConfig indicates whether MG is configured and can take the values ​​of setup or release.

[0067] Referring to Information 21 in Figure 7, MeasGapConfig includes parameters such as gapUE, gapFR1, and gapFR2. These parameters indicate whether or not MG is set for the unit in which MG is set, and can take the values ​​of setup or release. If gapUE is setup, MG is set for each UE (per UE), and if gapFR1 and gapFR2 are setup, MG is set for each FR (per frequency range). When the setting parameter is setup, the IE, GapConfig, is set as its value. The MG setting parameters for each unit are included in GapConfig.

[0068] Referring to Information 23 in Figure 8, GapConfig includes parameters such as gapOffset, mgl, mgrp, mgta, refServCellIndicator, refFR2ServCellAsyncCA-r16, and mgl-r16 as common configuration information. gapOffset indicates the offset of the gap pattern with MGRP (Measurement Gap Repetition Period). mgl and mgl-r16 indicate the length of the MG, i.e., MGP (Measurement Gap Length). mgrp indicates the repetition period of the MG, i.e., MGRP. mgta indicates the timing advance of the MG. refServCellIndicator and refFR2ServCellAsyncCA-r16 indicate the SFN (System Frame Number) and subframe of the serving cell used in the calculation of the MG. The above parameters as common configuration information can be used in both conventional MG and P-MG. Note that the common configuration information may consist of at least one of the above parameters.

[0069] Furthermore, GapConfig includes preconfiguredGap-r17 as P-MG configuration information. preconfiguredGap-r17 indicates whether P-MG is configured or not, and can take the value of setup or release. If preconfiguredGap-r17 is setup, P-MG is configured. In other words, MG is preconfigured. In this case, PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17, which is IE, is set as the value. PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 includes preconfiguredGapState-r17. preconfiguredGapState-r17 indicates whether P-MG is activated or deactivated. The above preconfiguredGap-r17 as P-MG configuration information is optional.

[0070] Thus, when a P-MG is configured, the P-MG configuration information indicates the activation or deactivation of the P-MG. This allows the MG configuration information to include information indicating the activation or deactivation of the P-MG only when the P-MG is configured. Therefore, signaling efficiency can be improved. Furthermore, by managing the activation or deactivation of the MG as a state, it is possible to control whether or not to apply the MG without discarding the MG configuration.

[0071] Furthermore, if P-MG is not configured, the P-MG configuration information will indicate that P-MG is not configured. This makes it clear that P-MG is not configured. It also makes it clear whether the applicable MG is a conventional MG or a P-MG. Therefore, inconsistencies in MG configuration information between UE100 and base station 200 can be suppressed.

[0072] Furthermore, MG configuration information is in MeasGapConfig, common configuration information includes at least one parameter included in GapConfig set in MeasGapConfig, and P-MG configuration information is included in GapConfig. This allows P-MG configuration information to be sent to UE100 while utilizing the MG configuration information used in conventional MGs. In addition, because P-MG configuration information is optional, compatibility with conventional MG configuration information can be maintained.

[0073] An RRC message containing MG configuration information may be either an RRCReconfiguration message or an RRCResume message.

[0074] This allows MG configuration information, including P-MG configuration information, to be transmitted from base station 200 to UE100 using existing signaling between UE and base station. Therefore, the addition of new signaling can be avoided.

[0075] Furthermore, an RRC message containing MG setting information, including P-MG setting information, may be an additionally defined RRC message, and may be an RRC message for transmitting MG setting information, including P-MG setting information. In this case, MG setting information, including P-MG setting information, can be transmitted to UE100 without modifying existing RRC messages.

[0076] (1-2) Set MG UE100 sets the MG based on the MG setting information. Specifically, UE100 (control unit 133) sets the conventional MG or P-MG based on the MG setting information contained in the RRC message received from base station 200.

[0077] More specifically, UE100 sets P-MG if the P-MG setting information included in the MG setting information indicates that P-MG should be set. Conversely, UE100 sets the conventional MG if the P-MG setting information indicates that P-MG should not be set.

[0078] For example, UE100 sets P-MG when preconfiguredGap-r17, included in Gapconfig as shown in Figure 8, is set to setup. That is, PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 is set, which includes preconfiguredGapState-r17, set to activation or deactivation, as a parameter.

[0079] Furthermore, if preconfiguredGap-r17 is set to release, the UE100 will configure the conventional MG. Therefore, PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 will not be configured. In other words, the P-MG mechanism is not applied to the MG. Consequently, the MG is not controlled using its activation state. In other words, the MG is always in an activated state. Thus, if the P-MG configuration information indicates that the P-MG will not be configured, compatibility with the conventional MG can be maintained by configuring the conventional MG.

[0080] (2) Operation of base station 200 Base station 200 is configured to use either the conventional MG or P-MG. Base station 200 transmits MG configuration information, including common configuration information and P-MG configuration information, to UE100. The operation of base station 200 and related information are described in detail below. Detailed explanations of content that is substantially the same as the explanation of UE100's operation will be omitted.

[0081] (2-1) Set MG The base station 200 sets either a conventional MG or a P-MG. Specifically, the base station 200 (control unit 243) selectively sets either a conventional MG or a P-MG based on conditions. For example, the conventional MG or P-MG is selectively set based on whether or not there is a request for MG setting from the UE 100, or the UE 100's adaptability or capability to P-MG.

[0082] Base station 200 configures common configuration information and P-MG configuration information. For example, base station 200 sets MeasGapConfig as MG configuration information, sets one of the parameters included in GapConfig as common configuration information, and sets preconfiguredGap-r17 as P-MG configuration information.

[0083] Furthermore, if P-MG is configured, base station 200 sets preconfiguredGap-r17 to setup and sets PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 which includes preconfiguredGapState-r17, which is set to activation or deactivation, as a parameter. If P-MG is not configured, base station 200 sets preconfiguredGap-r17 to release.

[0084] (2-2) Send MG setting information The base station 200 transmits MG configuration information to the UE 100. Specifically, the base station 200 (information acquisition unit 241) acquires MG configuration information. The base station 200 (communication processing unit 245) transmits an RRC message containing the acquired MG configuration information to the UE 100.

[0085] For example, base station 200 sends an RRC message to UE100 that includes MG configuration information, which includes common configuration information for the configured MG and P-MG configuration information. For example, the RRC message containing the MG configuration information may be an RRCReconfiguration message or an RRCResume message.

[0086] (3) Processing flow An example of processing according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0087] First, with reference to Figure 9, an example of the general flow of processing of System 1 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0088] Base station 200 configures the MG (S310). For example, base station 200 configures the P-MG. That is, the common configuration information and the P-MG configuration information are configured.

[0089] Base station 200 sends an RRC message containing MG configuration information to UE100 (S320). For example, base station 200 sends an RRCReconfiguration message or an RRCResume message to UE100 containing measGapConfig as MG configuration information, which includes common configuration information and P-MG configuration information.

[0090] UE100 sends a response message to base station 200 for the received RRC message (S330). For example, when UE100 receives an RRCReconfiguration message or RRCResume message containing measGapConfig from base station 200, it sends an RRCReconfigurationComp message or RRCResumeComp message to base station 200. If the activation status of the P-MG changes at this time, the response message may include information indicating the activation status of the P-MG (i.e., information indicating activation or deactivation).

[0091] UE100 obtains MG configuration information from the received RRC message (S340). For example, UE100 obtains measGapConfig as MG configuration information from the received RRCReconfiguration message or RRCResume message.

[0092] UE100 configures the MG based on the common configuration information and P-MG configuration information included in the acquired MG configuration information (S350). For example, UE100 configures either the conventional MG or P-MG based on the P-MG configuration information included in the acquired measGapConfig. Details of the MG configuration will be described later with reference to Figure 10.

[0093] Next, with reference to Figure 10, an example of the general flow of MG settings in UE100 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0094] UE100 determines whether the P-MG configuration information indicates release (S410). For example, UE100 determines whether preconfiguredGap-r17, which is included in GapConfig and set as the value of a parameter set to setup among gapUE, gapFR1, or gapFR2 in measGapConfig, is setup or release.

[0095] If the P-MG configuration information does not indicate release, UE100 determines whether the P-MG configuration information indicates activated or not (S420). For example, if preconfiguredGap-r17 is setup, UE100 determines whether preconfiguredGapState-r17, which is included in PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 set as the value of preconfiguredGap-r17, is activated or deactivated.

[0096] If the P-MG configuration information indicates "activated," UE100 sets the MG to be in the activated state (S430). For example, if preconfiguredGapState-r17 is activated, UE100 sets the MG to be in the activated state. In other words, UE100 operates as if P-MG is activated.

[0097] If the P-MG configuration information does not indicate activated, UE100 sets the MG to a deactivated state (S440). If preconfiguredGapState-r17 is deactivated, UE100 sets the MG to an activation state of deactivated. In other words, UE100 operates as if the P-MG is deactivated.

[0098] If the P-MG configuration information indicates "release," UE100 will use the conventional MG (S450). For example, if preconfiguredGap-r17 is "release," UE100 will use the conventional MG. That is, PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 will not be configured. In this case, as before, the MG settings in measGapConfig will continue to be applied until measGapConfig is released.

[0099] The above P-MG settings can be reflected in the TS. Information 25 in Figure 11 is an example of how the P-MG settings are reflected in the TS. Naturally, the manner in which the P-MG settings are reflected in the TS is not limited to this.

[0100] (4) Effects Thus, according to the first embodiment of this disclosure, an RRC message containing MG configuration information is transmitted from the base station to the UE100, and the MG configuration information includes common configuration information used in conventional MGs and P-MGs, and P-MG configuration information indicating that a P-MG is configured. This makes it possible to distinguish whether the MG configuration information is for a conventional MG or a P-MG, while using the same MG configuration information between conventional MGs and P-MGs. Therefore, it becomes possible to avoid conflicts in the configurations of two coexisting MGs. Furthermore, by reusing the MG configuration information used in conventional MGs, the same MG configuration information can be used separately for conventional MGs and P-MGs. In other words, it can be said that the configuration of a conventional MG can be transformed to a P-MG configuration, or vice versa.

[0101] Furthermore, if different, independent MG configuration information were to be used between the conventional MG and the P-MG, additional operation definitions may be required to avoid conflicts between the settings of the two MGs. For example, the network (i.e., the base station) would need to control the system so that when the P-MG is configured, the conventional MG is not configured, and conversely, when the conventional MG is configured, the P-MG is not configured. In contrast, according to the first embodiment of this disclosure, it becomes possible to avoid conflicts between the settings of two coexisting MGs without the need for the additional operation described above.

[0102] <4-2. Variations> First to third modifications according to the first embodiment of this disclosure are described below. Two or more of these modifications may be combined.

[0103] (1) First variation: Second example of P-MG setting information In the first embodiment of the present disclosure described above, the P-MG configuration information indicates the activation or deactivation of the P-MG when the P-MG is configured. However, the P-MG configuration information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

[0104] As a first modification of the first embodiment of this disclosure, information other than the P-MG setting information may indicate the activation or deactivation of the P-MG.

[0105] Specifically, the P-MG configuration information indicates whether or not the P-MG is configured, while the P-MG status information, separate from the P-MG configuration information, indicates whether the P-MG is activated or deactivated.

[0106] For example, referring to information 27 in Figure 12, GapConfig includes preconfiguredGap-r17 as P-MG configuration information and preconfiguredGapState-r17 as P-MG state information as parameters. preconfiguredGap-r17 indicates whether P-MG is configured or not, and can take the value TRUE or FALSE. preconfiguredGapState-r17 indicates whether P-MG is activated or deactivated. preconfiguredGapState-r17 is configured if preconfiguredGap-r17 is TRUE.

[0107] Referring to Figure 10, an example of the processing flow related to this modified example will be explained. Note that processing that is substantially the same as the processing according to the first embodiment of this disclosure described above will not be explained.

[0108] Instead of the S410, the UE100 determines whether the P-MG configuration information indicates TRUE or not. For example, the UE100 determines whether preconfiguredGap-r17 included in GapConfig is TRUE or FALSE.

[0109] Instead of S420, if the P-MG configuration information indicates TRUE, UE100 determines whether the P-MG state information indicates activated or not. For example, if preconfiguredGap-r17 is TRUE, UE100 determines whether preconfiguredGapState-r17 is activated or deactivated.

[0110] If the P-MG status information indicates activated instead of S430, UE100 sets the MG to the activated state.

[0111] Instead of S440, if the P-MG status information does not indicate activated, UE100 sets the MG to a deactivated state.

[0112] If the P-MG setting information indicates FALSE instead of S450, UE100 will set the conventional MG.

[0113] The above P-MG settings can be reflected in the TS. Information 29 in Figure 13 is an example of how the P-MG settings are reflected in the TS. Naturally, the manner in which the P-MG settings are reflected in the TS is not limited to this.

[0114] Thus, according to the first modification of the first embodiment of this disclosure, information separate from the P-MG configuration information indicates the activation or deactivation of the P-MG. This allows the activation state of the P-MG to be controlled without the P-MG configuration information being continuously retained in the UE100. Furthermore, by separating the P-MG configuration information from the P-MG state information, the activation state of the P-MG can be instructed to the UE100 independently of the P-MG configuration. For example, the activation state can be instructed by the RRC layer or the PHY layer, or changed by other triggers (e.g., timer-based BWP switching).

[0115] (2) Second variation: Third example of P-MG setting information In the first embodiment of the present disclosure described above, the P-MG setting information indicates whether or not the P-MG is set. However, the P-MG setting information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

[0116] As a second modification of the first embodiment of this disclosure, the P-MG setting information may indicate whether or not the P-MG is set depending on its presence or absence.

[0117] Specifically, P-MG configuration information does not need to be included in MG configuration information if P-MG is not configured. More specifically, P-MG configuration information may also be information indicating the activation status. For example, P-MG of The configuration information may be preconfiguredGapState-r17 as shown in Figure 8. preconfiguredGapState-r17 is included in GapConfig if P-MG is configured, and not included in GapConfig if P-MG is not configured.

[0118] Thus, according to the second modification of the first embodiment of this disclosure, the P-MG setting information is not included in the MG setting information if the P-MG is not set. This makes it possible to suppress the amount of communication in signaling while indicating whether or not the P-MG is set.

[0119] (3) Third modified example: Set independently for the conventional MG and P-MG In the first embodiment of the present disclosure described above, the MG setting information is shared between the conventional MG and the P-MG. However, the MG setting information according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

[0120] As a third modification of the first embodiment of this disclosure, the MG setting information may be defined separately for the conventional MG and P-MG, respectively.

[0121] Specifically, the MG configuration information for conventional MGs and the MG configuration information for P-MGs can each be included independently in the Measurement configuration information. For example, MeasConfig may include the measGapConfig for conventional MGs and the measGapConfig for P-MGs.

[0122] The MG setting information for conventional MGs is the conventional MG setting information. The MG setting information for P-MGs includes the conventional MG setting information plus the P-MG setting information described above.

[0123] Furthermore, the MG configuration information for P-MG may partially include the P-MG configuration information described above. Specifically, only information indicating the activation status of P-MG may be included in the MG configuration information. For example, instead of preconfiguredGap-r17 shown in Figure 8, only preconfiguredGapState-r17 may be included in GapConfig. Alternatively, information indicating the activation status of P-MG may not be included in the MG configuration information at all, but instead be included directly under the Measurement configuration information. For example, preconfiguredGapState-r17 shown in Figure 8 may be included directly under MeasConfig in parallel with measGapConfig.

[0124] The network (i.e., base station 200) configures only one MG during MG configuration. That is, base station 200 generates either MG configuration information for a conventional MG or MG configuration information for a P-MG, but not both.

[0125] Alternatively, UE100 may select one set of MG settings. For example, if the Measurement settings include both the MG settings for the conventional MG and the MG settings for the P-MG, UE100 may retain the MG settings for the P-MG and discard the conventional MG settings. If only one of the MG settings for the conventional MG or the P-MG is included, the MG will be configured based on the included MG settings.

[0126] Thus, according to the third modification of the first embodiment of this disclosure, the MG setting information is defined separately for the conventional MG and the P-MG, respectively. This allows for independent management of the MG setting information for the conventional MG and the MG setting information for the P-MG. Therefore, different settings can be easily applied to the conventional MG and the P-MG. For example, it becomes easier to distinguish and manage settings used only for the P-MG or only for the conventional MG.

[0127] <5. Second Embodiment> A second embodiment of this disclosure will now be described. In the second embodiment, when a BWP (Battery Wave Point) switch occurs, the activation state of the MG (Motor Generator) is set according to the BWP after the switch. If a conventional MG and a P-MG (Pre-Motor Generator) coexist, the activation state of the P-MG is set according to the BWP after the switch.

[0128] <5-1. First example of operation> A first operational example of a second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. In the first operational example, the activation state of the MG is set according to the requirement of the MG in the BWP after the switch.

[0129] (1) Operation of UE100 When BWP switching occurs, the UE100 determines the need for MG. The UE100 then sets the activation status of the MG according to the need for MG.

[0130] (1-1) Determining BWP switching UE100 determines whether or not BWP switching has occurred. Specifically, UE100 (control unit 133) determines whether or not timer-based BWP switching has occurred.

[0131] More specifically, the UE100 determines whether the timer for BWP switching has expired. For example, the timer is the BWP inactivity timer.

[0132] When a BWP switching occurs, the BWP switches to a predetermined BWP. For example, the predetermined BWP is the default DL (Downlink) BWP. If a default DL BWP is not set, the predetermined BWP may be the initial DL BWP. Note that the above predetermined BWP may be any other BWP other than the default DL BWP or the initial DL BWP.

[0133] (1-2) Determining the necessity of MG The UE100 (control unit 133) determines the need for a gap assist (MG) in the BWP after the switch. Specifically, the UE100 determines the need for a gap assist based on conventional criteria for determining the need for a gap assist. For example, the UE100 determines the need for a gap assist based on the criteria for determining whether a gap assist is required for the measurement described in 3GPP TS38.300 (i.e., whether it is gap-assisted or non-gap-assisted). Furthermore, the need for a gap assist is determined based on the measurement method based on a predetermined control signal. In other words, the predetermined control signal is the signal used for the measurement.

[0134] More specifically, the need for MG may be determined based on a report from UE100 regarding the need for MG at the BWP after the switch. For example, if the measurement method is SSB (Synchronization Signal Block) based inter-frequency measurement or SSB based intra-frequency measurement, UE100 will determine the need for MG depending on whether or not it reports MG requirement information to base station 200. If UE100 reports MG requirement information, it will determine that MG is required. For example, this report may be the transmission of an RRC message such as RRCReconfigurationComp or RRCResumeComp that includes MG requirement information.

[0135] Furthermore, the need for an MG may be determined based on the UE100's capabilities for the BWP after the switch. For example, if the measurement method is SSB-based inter-frequency measurement, the UE100 will determine the need for an MG for the BWP after the switch according to the type of MG it supports. If the UE100 only supports per-UE MG, it will determine that an MG is required.

[0136] Furthermore, the need for MG may be determined based on the frequency for measurement in the serving cell in the BWP after switching. For example, if the measurement method is SSB-based inter-frequency measurement, the UE100, when it supports per-FR MG, will determine the need for MG in the BWP after switching depending on whether the frequency range for measurement in multiple serving cells is the same. The UE100 will determine that MG is required if the frequency range for measurement in multiple serving cells is the same.

[0137] Furthermore, the need for MG may be determined based on the frequency resources of a predetermined control signal in the BWP after switching. For example, if the measurement method is SSB-based intra-frequency measurement, UE100 determines the need for MG depending on whether the BWP after switching includes the frequency resources of the SSB related to the initial DL BWP. UE100 determines that MG is required if the BWP after switching does not include the frequency resources of the SSB.

[0138] The measurement method may also be inter-frequency measurement based on CSI-RS (Channel State Information Reference Signal).

[0139] Furthermore, only some of the conditions described in TS38.300 above may apply. Also, the criteria for determining the necessity of MG are not limited to the conditions described in TS38.300 above, but may include other conditions.

[0140] (1-3) Setting the activation status of the MG The UE100 sets the activation status of the MG according to the need for the MG. Specifically, the UE100 (control unit 133) sets the activation or deactivation of the MG according to the need for the MG in the BWP after the switch.

[0141] For example, if the UE100 requires the MG in the BWP after the switch, it activates the MG, meaning its state is set to activated. If the MG is not required in the BWP after the switch, it deactivates the MG, meaning its state is set to deactivated.

[0142] (2) Operation of base station 200 When BWP switching occurs, base station 200 determines the need for MG. Base station 200 sets the activation status of MG according to the need for MG. Detailed explanations are omitted for content that is substantially the same as the explanation of UE100's operation.

[0143] (2-1) Determining BWP switching The base station 200 determines whether or not BWP switching has occurred. Specifically, the base station 200 (control unit 243) determines whether or not timer-based BWP switching has occurred. The determination of timer-based BWP switching is substantially the same as the operation of UE100, so the explanation is omitted.

[0144] (2-2) Determining the necessity of MG Base station 200 determines the need for a motor generator (MG) in the BWP after the switch. Specifically, base station 200 determines the need for an MG based on the conditions described in 3GPP TS38.300, similar to the operation of UE100. The determination of the need for an MG is substantially the same as the operation of UE100, except for the determination of the need for an MG based on the report on the need for an MG from UE100, so the explanation is omitted.

[0145] In determining the necessity of an MG based on a report from UE100 regarding the need for an MG, base station 200 operates differently from UE100 in that it is reported to by UE100.

[0146] For example, base station 200 determines the need for MG depending on whether or not MG requirement information has been reported from UE100. If MG requirement information has been reported, base station 200 determines that MG is required. Base station 200 may also request the report of MG requirement information. For example, base station 200 may send an RRC message such as RRCReconfiguration or RRCResume to UE100 that contains information to cause UE100 to report MG requirement information.

[0147] (2-3) Setting the activation status of the MG The base station 200 sets the activation state of the MG according to the need for the MG. Specifically, the base station 200 (control unit 243) sets the activation or deactivation of the MG according to the need for the MG in the BWP after the switch. The setting of the activation state is substantially the same as the operation of the UE100, so the explanation is omitted.

[0148] (3) Processing flow Referring to Figures 14 and 15, an example of the processing relating to the first operational example of the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0149] First, with reference to Figure 14, an example of the general flow of processing of System 1 according to the first operational example of the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0150] UE100 and base station 200 determine whether BWP switching has occurred based on the timer (S510). For example, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the BWP switching timer has expired.

[0151] When BWP switching occurs, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether or not a motor generator (MG) is required in the BWP after the switch (S520). For example, if the BWP switching timer expires, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether or not a motor generator (MG) is required in the BWP after the switch based on the conditions for which a motor generator is required as described in TS38.300. Further details will be described later with reference to Figure 15.

[0152] If an MG is required in the BWP after the switch, UE100 and base station 200 set the MG to the activated state (S530). For example, if an MG is required in the BWP after the switch, UE100 and base station 200 set the MG to have an activation state of activated. In other words, UE100 and base station 200 operate as if the MG is activated.

[0153] If the MG is not required in the BWP after the switch, the UE100 and base station 200 set the MG to a deactivated state (S540). For example, if the MG is not required in the BWP after the switch, the UE100 and base station 200 set the MG to an activation state of deactivated. In other words, the UE100 and base station 200 operate as if the MG were deactivated.

[0154] Next, with reference to Figure 15, an example of the general flow of the process for determining the necessity of an MG in the UE100 and base station 200 according to the first operational example of the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0155] UE100 and base station 200 determine whether or not the need for MG is reported from UE100 for the BWP after switching (S610). For example, UE100 determines whether or not to report MG requirement information to base station 200. Base station 200 also determines whether or not MG requirement information has been reported from UE100.

[0156] Furthermore, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the capabilities of UE100 are suitable for the BWP after the switch (S620). For example, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether UE100 supports only per-UE MG for the BWP after the switch. If it only supports per-UE MG, it can be said that UE100 is not suitable for the BWP after the switch.

[0157] Furthermore, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the measurement frequencies in multiple serving cells are the same for the BWP after switching (S630). For example, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the frequency range for measurement in multiple serving cells is the same for the BWP after switching.

[0158] Furthermore, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the BWP after switching includes the frequency resources of a predetermined control signal (S640). For example, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the BWP after switching includes the SSB frequency resources related to the initial BWP.

[0159] The above S610 or S If the determination in 630 is YES, or if the determination in S620 or S640 is NO, the process proceeds to S530, where UE100 and base station 200 activate the MG, indicating that an MG is required.

[0160] If the determination in S640 is YES, the process proceeds to S540, where UE100 and base station 200 deactivate the MG, indicating that it is not needed.

[0161] Furthermore, the MG settings described above in the first example of operation, as explained with reference to Figures 14 and 15, can be reflected in the TS. Information 35 in Figure 16 is an example of how the MG settings are reflected in the TS. Naturally, the manner in which the MG settings are reflected in the TS is not limited to this.

[0162] (4) Effects Thus, according to the first operational example of the second embodiment of this disclosure, when switching of the BWP used for communication between the UE100 and the base station 200 occurs, the activation or deactivation of the MG is set according to the BWP after the switch. As a result, the same activation state according to the BWP after the switch can be set in both the UE100 and the base station 200, respectively, without signaling between the UE100 and the base station 200. Therefore, it is possible to suppress a decrease in signaling efficiency while matching the activation state of the MG between the network and the UE.

[0163] Furthermore, according to the first example of operation described above, the activation or deactivation of the MG is set according to the need for the MG in the BWP after the switch. This makes it possible to set the same activation state suitable for the BWP after the switch in both the UE100 and the base station 200.

[0164] Furthermore, the need for an MG in the BWP after the switch is determined based on the criteria for determining the need for the first MG (conventional MG). For example, the need for an MG may be based on a report from the UE100 regarding the need for an MG in the BWP after the switch. Alternatively, the need for an MG may be based on the capabilities of the UE100 for the BWP after the switch. Alternatively, the need for an MG may be based on the frequency for measurement in the serving cell in the BWP after the switch. Alternatively, the need for an MG may be based on the resources for a predetermined control signal in the BWP after the switch. Alternatively, the need for an MG may be about the measurement method based on the predetermined control signal. The predetermined control signal may be SSB or CSI-RS. This allows the setting conditions for the activation state of the MG to be aligned with the criteria for determining the need for a conventional MG.

[0165] Furthermore, BWP switching includes timer-based BWP switching. In the case of timer-based BWP switching, the UE and base station operate independently of each other with respect to BWP switching, i.e., they each independently set the activation state of the MG. However, in this case, since the activation state is not synchronized or notified between the UE and base station, inconsistencies in the activation state may occur between the UE and base station. On the other hand, synchronizing or notifying the activation state between the UE and base station is undesirable because it would add signaling. In contrast, according to the second embodiment of this disclosure, the activation state during BWP switching is set between the UE 100 and base station 200 using a common criterion of the need for the MG. Therefore, even with timer-based BWP switching, the activation state can be matched between the UE 100 and base station 200 without signaling for synchronization or notification of the activation state.

[0166] Furthermore, BWP switching includes switching to a predetermined BWP, which includes the default BWP or initial BWP. This allows for defining the behavior for switching to a specific BWP, thereby preventing the setting of activation states in response to BWP switching from becoming overly complex.

[0167] <5-3. Second example of operation> Next, a second example of operation of the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. In the second example of operation, the activation state of the MG is set based on the setting of the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch. Detailed explanations of content that is substantially the same as the explanation in the first example of operation will be omitted.

[0168] (1) Operation of UE100 When BWP switching occurs, the UE100 sets the activation state of the MG based on the activation state setting corresponding to the BWP switching.

[0169] (1-1) Determining BWP switching UE100 determines whether or not BWP switching has occurred. Specifically, UE100 (control unit 133) determines whether or not timer-based BWP switching has occurred. The determination of timer-based BWP switching is substantially the same as in the first operation example, so the explanation is omitted.

[0170] (1-2) Setting the activation status of the MG When BWP switching occurs, UE100 sets the activation state of the MG. Specifically, UE100 (control unit 133) sets the activation or deactivation of the MG based on the activation state setting corresponding to the BWP after the switch.

[0171] More specifically, when a BWP (Body-Wave Point) switch occurs, the UE100 configures the activation or deactivation of the MG (Motor Generator) based on the default setting for the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch. This default setting indicates the activation or deactivation of the MG.

[0172] For example, when BWP switches to default DL BWP or initial DL BWP, if the above default setting indicates activation, UE100 activates MG. That is, the status is set to activation. If the above default setting indicates deactivation, UE100 deactivates MG. That is, the status is set to deactivation.

[0173] Here, the setting of the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch is included in the MG setting. Referring to information 43 in Figure 17, in preconfiguredGap-r17 as part of the MG setting, PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 is set in the setup case, and PreconfiguredGapConfig-r17 includes defaultBWP-PreconfiguredGapState-r17 as the default setting. defaultBWP-PreconfiguredGapState-r17 can take the value of activated or deactivated.

[0174] Furthermore, the UE100 (communication processing unit 135) receives an RRC message containing MG configuration information that indicates the MG configuration, including the setting of the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch. Referring to information 43 in Figure 17, preconfiguredGap-r17, which includes defaultBWP-PreconfiguredGapState-r17, is included in GapConfig. MeasGapConfig, which is MG configuration information including GapConfig, is an RRC Information Element and is included in the RRC message. This RRC message may be, for example, an RRCReconfiguration message or an RRCResume message.

[0175] Note that the above switch rear The MG setting information, which includes the setting of the activation status corresponding to the BWP, may be the MG setting information according to the first embodiment, or it may be the MG setting information for P-MG according to a second modified example of the first embodiment.

[0176] (2) Operation of base station 200 When BWP switching occurs, base station 200 sets the activation state of the MG based on the activation state setting corresponding to the BWP switching. Detailed explanations of content that is substantially the same as the explanation of UE100's operation are omitted.

[0177] (2-1) Determining BWP switching The base station 200 determines whether or not BWP switching has occurred. Specifically, the base station 200 (control unit 243) determines whether or not timer-based BWP switching has occurred. The determination of timer-based BWP switching is substantially the same as in the first example of operation, so the explanation is omitted.

[0178] (2-2) Setting the activation status of the MG When BWP switching occurs, base station 200 sets the activation state of the MG. Specifically, base station 200 (control unit 243) sets the activation or deactivation of the MG based on the activation state setting corresponding to the BWP after the switch. The setting of the activation state is substantially the same as the operation of UE100, so the explanation is omitted.

[0179] (3) Processing flow Referring to Figure 18, an example of processing related to the second operational example of the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described. Detailed explanations of processing that is substantially the same as the processing related to the first operational example will be omitted.

[0180] UE100 and base station 200 determine whether BWP switching has occurred based on the timer (S710).

[0181] When BWP switching occurs, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the MG state setting corresponding to the BWP switch is activated (S720). For example, when the BWP switching timer expires, UE100 and base station 200 determine whether the default setting for the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch is activated.

[0182] If the MG status setting for the BWP switch is "activated", UE100 and base station 200 configure the MG to be in the "activated" state (S730). For example, if the default setting for the activation status of the BWP after the switch is "activated", UE100 and base station 200 configure the MG to have an activation status of "activated". In other words, UE100 and base station 200 operate as if the MG were "activated".

[0183] If the MG status setting for the BWP switch is not "activated," UE100 and base station 200 set the MG to a "deactivated" state (S740). For example, if the default setting for the activation status of the BWP after the switch is "deactivated," UE100 and base station 200 set the MG to an activation status of "deactivated." In other words, UE100 and base station 200 operate as if the MG were deactivated.

[0184] Furthermore, the settings of the MG described in the second example of operation with reference to Figure 18 can be reflected in the TS. Information 45 in Figure 19 is an example of how the settings of the MG can be reflected in the TS. Naturally, the manner in which the settings of the MG can be reflected in the TS is not limited to this.

[0185] (4) Effects Thus, according to the second example of operation of the second embodiment of the present disclosure, similar to the first example of operation, it is possible to suppress a decrease in signaling efficiency while matching the activation state of the MG between the network and the UE.

[0186] Furthermore, according to the second example of operation described above, the activation or deactivation of the MG is set based on the activation state setting corresponding to the BWP after the switch. This allows the same activation state to be set on both the UE100 and the base station 200 during BWP switching. In addition, the activation state during BWP switching can be specified without relying on an existing TS.

[0187] Furthermore, the activation status settings corresponding to BWP after the switch are included in the MG settings. This allows for the consolidation of information regarding MG settings, improving signaling efficiency.

[0188] Furthermore, an RRC message containing MG configuration information, including the setting of the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch, is sent from base station 200 to UE100. This allows the UE100 to be notified of the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the switch using existing MG configuration information.

[0189] Furthermore, the activation status setting indicates the activation or deactivation of the MG corresponding to the BWP after the switch. In this way, by directly indicating the activation status with the setting value, the setting of the activation status can be simplified.

[0190] <5-4. Modified Version> Modifications relating to the first and second operational examples of the second embodiment of this disclosure will be described.

[0191] (1) Modified example: BWP switching based on DL control signal In the second embodiment of the present disclosure described above, the BWP switching is timer-based BWP switching. However, the BWP switching according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to this example.

[0192] As a variation of the second embodiment of this disclosure, the BWP switching may be BWP switching based on a DL control signal.

[0193] Specifically, UE100 (communication processing unit 135) receives a DL control signal. UE100 (control unit 133) determines whether the received DL control signal contains information indicating BWP switching.

[0194] For example, as shown in S510 in Figure 14 or S710 in Figure 18, the UE100 determines whether or not DCI (Downlink Control Information) indicating BWP switching has been received on the PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel).

[0195] Thus, according to a modification of the second embodiment of this disclosure, the BWP switching includes BWP switching based on a DL control signal. Therefore, the BWP switching can be explicitly synchronized between the UE 100 and the base station 200. Consequently, the timing of setting the activation state can be more reliably synchronized without signaling for setting the activation state.

[0196] While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

[0197] For example, the steps in the process described herein do not necessarily have to be executed chronologically in the order shown in the flowchart or sequence diagram. For example, the steps in the process may be executed in a different order than that shown in the flowchart or sequence diagram, or they may be executed in parallel. Also, some steps in the process may be deleted, or additional steps may be added to the process.

[0198] For example, a method including the operation of one or more components of the apparatus described herein may be provided, and a program for causing a computer to perform the operation of such components may be provided. A computer-readable non-transitory tangible storage medium on which such program is recorded may also be provided. Naturally, such methods, programs, and computer-readable non-transitory tangible storage mediums are also included in this disclosure.

[0199] For example, in this disclosure, user equipment (UE) may be referred to by other names such as mobile station, mobile terminal, mobile device, mobile unit, subscriber station, subscriber terminal, subscriber equipment, subscriber unit, wireless station, wireless terminal, wireless device, wireless unit, remote station, remote terminal, remote device, or remote unit.

[0200] For example, in this disclosure, “transmit” may mean processing at least one layer in the protocol stack used for transmission, or it may mean physically transmitting a signal wirelessly or via a wire. Alternatively, “transmit” may mean a combination of processing at least one layer and physically transmitting a signal wirelessly or via a wire. Similarly, “receive” may mean processing at least one layer in the protocol stack used for reception, or it may mean physically receiving a signal wirelessly or via a wire. Alternatively, “receive” may mean a combination of processing at least one layer and physically receiving a signal wirelessly or via a wire. The at least one layer may be rephrased as at least one protocol.

[0201] For example, in this disclosure, "obtain / acquire" may mean obtaining information from stored information, obtaining information from information received from other nodes, or obtaining information by generating the information.

[0202] For example, in this disclosure, “include” and “comprise” do not mean that only the listed items are included, but that they may include only the listed items or that they may include additional items in addition to the listed items.

[0203] For example, in this disclosure, "or" does not mean exclusive OR, but rather logical OR.

[0204] The technical features included in the embodiments described above may also be expressed as the following features. Of course, this disclosure is not limited to the following features.

[0205] (Feature 1) User equipment (100), A communication processing unit (135) that communicates with the base station (200), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the base station occurs, a control unit (133) sets the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) according to the BWP after the switch, Equipped with User equipment.

[0206] (Feature 2) The control unit sets the activation or deactivation of the MG depending on the need for the MG in the BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in Feature 1.

[0207] (Feature 3) The aforementioned MG includes a second MG separate from the first MG, The necessity of the aforementioned MG is based on the criteria for determining the necessity of the first MG. User equipment as described in Feature 2.

[0208] (Feature 4) The necessity of the aforementioned MG is based on a report regarding the necessity of the MG from the user equipment in the BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in Feature 2 or 3.

[0209] (Feature 5) The necessity of the aforementioned MG is based on the capabilities of the user equipment regarding BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in any one of the features 2 to 4.

[0210] (Feature 6) The necessity of the aforementioned MG is based on the frequency for measurement in the serving cell in the BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in any one of the features 2 to 5.

[0211] (Feature 7) The necessity of the aforementioned MG is based on the frequency resources of a predetermined control signal in the BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in any one of the features 2 to 6.

[0212] (Feature 8) The necessity of the aforementioned MG is related to the measurement method based on a predetermined control signal. User equipment as described in any one of the features 2 to 7.

[0213] (Feature 9) The aforementioned predetermined control signal includes an SSB (Synchronization Signal Block). User equipment as described in Feature 8.

[0214] (Feature 10) The predetermined control signal is CSI-RS(C hIncludes (annel State Information Reference Signal) User equipment as described in Feature 8 or 9.

[0215] (Feature 11) The control unit sets the activation or deactivation of the MG based on the activation state setting corresponding to the BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in Feature 1.

[0216] (Feature 12) The setting of the activation state corresponding to the BWP after the aforementioned switch is included in the setting of the MG. User equipment as described in Feature 11.

[0217] (Feature 13) The communication processing unit receives an RRC message containing MG setting information indicating the settings of the MG. User equipment as described in Feature 12.

[0218] (Feature 14) The aforementioned MG includes a second MG separate from the first MG, The MG setting information includes common setting information used in the first MG and the second MG. User equipment as described in Feature 13.

[0219] (Feature 15) The aforementioned MG includes a second MG separate from the first MG, The aforementioned MG setting information is MG setting information for the second MG, and is separate from the MG setting information that indicates the settings for the first MG. User equipment as described in Feature 13.

[0220] (Feature 16) The setting of the activation state indicates the activation or deactivation of the MG corresponding to the BWP after the switch. User equipment as described in any one of the features 11-15.

[0221] (Feature 17) The BWP switching includes timer-based BWP switching. User equipment as described in any one of the features 1 to 16.

[0222] (Feature 18) The switching of the BWP includes BWP switching based on a downlink control signal. User equipment as described in any one of the features 1 to 17.

[0223] (Feature 19) The switching of the BWP includes switching to a predetermined BWP. The aforementioned specified BWP includes the default BWP or initial BWP. User equipment as described in any one of the features 1 to 18.

[0224] (Feature 20) A communication processing unit (245) that communicates with user equipment (100), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the user equipment occurs, a control unit (243) sets the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) according to the BWP after the switch, Equipped with Base station (200).

[0225] (Feature 21) A method performed by user equipment (100), To communicate with base station (200), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the aforementioned base station occurs, the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) is set according to the BWP after the switch. including method.

[0226] (Feature 22) A method performed by the base station (200), To communicate with the user device (100), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the aforementioned user equipment occurs, the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) is set according to the BWP after the switch. including method.

[0227] (Feature 23) To communicate with base station (200), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the aforementioned base station occurs, the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) is set according to the BWP after the switch. A program that causes a computer to execute something.

[0228] (Feature 24) To communicate with the user device (100), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the aforementioned user equipment occurs, the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) is set according to the BWP after the switch. A program that causes a computer to execute something.

[0229] (Feature 25) To communicate with base station (200), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the aforementioned base station occurs, the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) is set according to the BWP after the switch. A computer-readable, non-transitional, tangible recording medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute a program.

[0230] (Feature 26) To communicate with the user device (100), When switching of the Bandwidth Part (BWP) used for communication with the aforementioned user equipment occurs, the activation or deactivation of the Measurement Gap (MG) is set according to the BWP after the switch. A computer-readable, non-transitional, tangible recording medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute a program.

Claims

1. It is a device, A receiving unit that receives an RRC (Radio Resource Control) message from a base station, which includes a measurement gap setting, which is first setting information including information indicating that the measurement gap is a pre-set measurement gap, and a second setting information including information indicating that the pre-set measurement gap is activated or deactivated. The system includes a control unit that determines the state of the pre-set measurement gap to either activate or deactivate, The control unit, Control the switching of the downlink BWP (Bandwidth Part), If the second setting information is included in the RRC message, the state of the pre-configured measurement gap is determined to be either activated or deactivated based on the switching of one downlink BWP, according to the second setting information. If the downlink BWP after the switch is the initial downlink BWP and the second setting information is not included in the RRC message, then an intra-frequency measurement based on SSB (Synchronization Signal and Physical Broadcast channel block) is performed without a measurement gap, and the state of the pre-set measurement gap is determined as deactivated. Device.

2. It is a base station, A transmitting unit that transmits an RRC (Radio Resource Control) message to a device, which includes a measurement gap setting, which is first setting information including information indicating that the measurement gap is a pre-set measurement gap, and a second setting information including information indicating that the pre-set measurement gap is activated or deactivated. The system includes a control unit that controls the state of the pre-set measurement gap to either activate or deactivate, The control unit, Control the switching of the downlink BWP (Bandwidth Part), If the second setting information is included in the RRC message, the state of the pre-configured measurement gap is determined to be either activated or deactivated based on the switching of one downlink BWP, according to the second setting information. If the downlink BWP after the switch is the initial downlink BWP and the second setting information is not included in the RRC message, then an intra-frequency measurement based on SSB (Synchronization Signal and Physical Broadcast channel block) is performed without a measurement gap, and the state of the pre-set measurement gap is determined as deactivated. Base station.

3. A communication method for devices, The steps include receiving an RRC (Radio Resource Control) message from a base station, which includes a measurement gap setting, which is first setting information including information indicating that the measurement gap is a pre-set measurement gap, and a second setting information including information indicating that the pre-set measurement gap is activated or deactivated. The steps include determining whether the state of the pre-set measurement gap is activated or deactivated, The steps include controlling the switching of the downlink BWP (Bandwidth Part), In the step of making the above decision, If the second setting information is included in the RRC message, the state of the pre-configured measurement gap is determined to be either activated or deactivated based on the switching of one downlink BWP, according to the second setting information. If the downlink BWP after the switch is the initial downlink BWP and the second setting information is not included in the RRC message, then an intra-frequency measurement based on SSB (Synchronization Signal and Physical Broadcast channel block) is performed without a measurement gap, and the state of the pre-set measurement gap is determined as deactivated. Communication method.

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