Method and system for managing configuration and control information of mbs service in wireless network

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system and IoT technology, the 5th-Generation (5G) communication system supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system. The disclosure can be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. Embodiments herein provide a method for managing control information of MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes broadcasting, by a BS (200) in the wireless network, a first message having scheduling information of a second message to a plurality of UEs (100A) in the wireless network. The method includes receiving, by a UE (100) of the plurality of UEs (100A), the first message. The method includes broadcasting, by the BS (200), the second message including control information of a MBS service to the plurality of UEs (100A) based on the scheduling information. The method includes receiving, by the UE (100), the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The method includes accessing, by the UE (100), a MBS service of interest from the BS (200) using the control information in the second message.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to wireless communications, and more specifically, to methods and systems for managing configuration and control information for multicast broadcast service (MBS) services in wireless networks. Background Technology

[0002] To meet the increased demand for wireless data services since the deployment of 4G communication systems, efforts have been made to develop improved 5G or pre-5G communication systems. Therefore, 5G or pre-5G communication systems are also referred to as "beyond 4G networks" or "post-LTE systems." 5G communication systems are considered to be implemented in higher frequency (millimeter wave (mmWave)) bands (e.g., the 60GHz band) to achieve higher data rates. To reduce radio wave propagation loss and increase transmission distance, beamforming, massive MIMO, full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, and massive MIMO technologies have been discussed in 5G communication systems. Furthermore, in 5G communication systems, system network improvements are being developed based on advanced small cells, cloud radio access networks (RAN), ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communication, wireless backhaul, mobile networks, cooperative communication, cooperative multipoint (CoMP), and receiver interference cancellation. In 5G systems, hybrid FSK and QAM modulation (FQAM) and sliding window superposition coding (SWSC) have been developed as advanced coding modulation (ACM), as well as filter bank multicarrier (FBMC), non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) and sparse code multiple access (SCMA) as advanced access technologies.

[0003] The internet, a human-centric network of connections where humans generate and consume information, is now evolving into the Internet of Things (IoT), where distributed entities (such as things) exchange and process information without human intervention. The Internet of Everything (IoE), combining IoT technology with big data processing, has emerged through connections to cloud servers. As technological elements necessary for realizing IoT, such as sensing technology, wired / wireless communication and network infrastructure, service interface technology, and security technology, sensor networks, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, and machine-type communication (MTC) have recently been studied. Such an IoT environment can provide intelligent internet technology services, creating new value for human life by collecting and analyzing data generated between interconnected things. Through the convergence and integration of existing information technology (IT) and various industrial applications, IoT can be applied to a wide range of fields, including smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart or connected cars, smart grids, healthcare, smart appliances, and advanced medical services.

[0004] Correspondingly, various attempts have been made to apply 5G communication systems to IoT networks. For example, technologies such as sensor networks, machine-type communication (MTC), and machine-to-machine (M2M) communication can be implemented using beamforming, MIMO, and array antennas. Cloud radio access networks (RAN), as an application of the aforementioned big data processing technologies, can also be considered an example of the convergence between 5G and IoT technologies.

[0005] Layered signaling for information regarding both Evolved Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (eMBMS) and Single Cell Point-to-Multipoint (SC-PTM) Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) has been deployed in Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio networks. Terminal devices in LTE radio networks use System Information Block (SIB) 13 / 20 messages containing Single Frequency Network (SFN) area information (for eMBMS only) and MBMS Control Channel (MCCH) configuration to transmit MBMS information. Terminal devices also configure the MCCH for resource allocation and the Physical Multicast Channel (PMCH) configuration for sending / receiving each MBMS service.

[0006] Similar to MBMS, in 3GPP Release 17, Multicast and Broadcast Services (MBS) are being re-addressed for New Radio (NR) radio networks. Since Single Frequency Networks (SFNs) are not expected to be standardized in NR radio networks, SFN area information is not required in NR radio networks. However, configuration related to service availability and schedules is needed when deploying MBS. Therefore, signaling specifying control information associated with MBS is desired. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues

[0008] The main objective of this embodiment is to provide a method and system for managing configuration and control information for MBS services in an NR wireless network.

[0009] Another objective of the embodiments described herein is to control signaling, such as layered, hybrid modes, and plane signaling for MBS service access under different Radio Resource Control (RRC) states, and to employ related signaling and procedural operations.

[0010] Another objective of the embodiments described herein is to deliver MBS service-related configurations, which facilitate UE operation and access to relevant MBS services.

[0011] Another objective of the embodiments described herein is to assign a new Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) for MCCH reception.

[0012] Another objective of the embodiments described herein is to specify a new Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) for MCCH change notifications.

[0013] Another objective of the embodiments described herein is to specify new SIB bearer frequency-service mappings that also apply to non-MBS cells and to ensure cell reselection and service continuity for MBS cells.

[0014] Technical solution

[0015] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a first message broadcast by a base station (BS) in the wireless network to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message containing scheduling information and a second message. The method includes receiving the first message by one of the UEs. The method includes the BS broadcasting a second message containing configuration information and a third message, the third message including control information for the MBS service, to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information in the first message. The method includes the BS broadcasting the third message to the multiple UEs. The method includes the UEs receiving the third message using the configuration information in the second message. The method includes the UEs using the control information in the third message to access an MBS service of interest from the BS.

[0016] In one embodiment, the control information for MBS services includes MBS service support on the cell, a list of services available in the current serving cell, a list of services available in both the serving cell and neighboring cells, a list of additional services available in a specific neighboring cell, configuration information for the traffic channel (MTCH), including the group radio network temporary identifier (G-RNTI) for each service and the configuration information for MBS services supported in the current serving cell for the discontinuous reception (DRX) scheduling information of the service, wherein the configuration information for MBS services indicates the relevant radio resource control (RRC) status for which a specific MBS service can be accessed.

[0017] In one embodiment, receiving a third message by the UE using configuration information includes receiving a third message by the UE based on the configuration information and using a new RNTI (MBS-RNTI), wherein the new RNTI is used to decode the control (physical downlink control channel (PDCCH)) and / or data (physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH)) channels of the MBS control channel (MCCH).

[0018] In another embodiment, the UE receives the MCCH change notification using a new RNTI (MCCH-NTF-RNTI), wherein the new RNTI is used to decode control information (i.e., downlink control information on the PDCCH) related to the MCCH change notification message.

[0019] In another embodiment, the process of the UE accessing an MBS service of interest from the BS using control information in a third message includes the UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS for accessing a specific set (i.e., a first set) of MBS services that are allowed to be accessed in the RRC connection state, sent by the BS; a fourth message including a service configuration that includes additional MBS control information that allows the UE to access the remaining set of MBS services (i.e., a second set); the UE sending a request to the BS to access the remaining set of MBS services based on the service configuration; and the BS providing the remaining set of MBS services to the UE.

[0020] In another embodiment, the UE accessing an MBS service of interest from the BS using control information in a third message includes the UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS for accessing a specific set of MBS services that are allowed to be accessed in the RRC connection state, sent by the BS; RRC reconfiguration including at least one of a configuration for the UE to request additional MBS control information or a configuration for indicating the UE's interest; the UE sending at least one of an interest indication or a request for additional MBS control information to the BS; the BS sending a fourth message including a service configuration that includes additional MBS control information allowing the UE to access the remaining set of MBS services; based on the service configuration, the UE sending a request to the BS for accessing the remaining set of MBS services using either RRC signaling or MAC signaling; and the BS providing the remaining set of MBS services to the UE.

[0021] In one embodiment, the first message is an SIB1 message, and the scheduling information in the first message includes the scheduling time and period of MBSSIB.

[0022] In one embodiment, the second message is a new MBS SIB message, and the second message includes a change notification configuration that allows the UE to periodically check for changes in the MBS service.

[0023] In one embodiment, the third message is MCCH.

[0024] In one embodiment, when the UE requests the BS to broadcast at least one of a second message or a third message, the BS undertakes the transmission of the relevant message based on the request from the UE. That is, the broadcast of at least one of the second message or the third message is performed according to the UE's request.

[0025] In one embodiment, the BS broadcasting a third message to the UE includes unicasting a third message to the UE when the UE is in a connected state and / or the UE is not on the appropriate bandwidth portion (BWP) or carrier, such that the UE cannot receive the broadcast of the third message.

[0026] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a first message broadcast by a BS in the wireless network to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message containing scheduling information and a second message. The method includes a UE receiving the first message. The method includes the BS broadcasting a second message, including control information for MBS services, to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information. The method includes a UE receiving the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The method includes a UE using the control information in the second message to access an MBS service of interest from the BS.

[0027] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a BS in the wireless network broadcasting a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network. This first message includes an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting MBS services, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The method includes a UE selecting a BWP supporting an MBS service of interest based on the first message. The method includes the BS broadcasting a second message including control information for the MBS service to the multiple UEs via the BWPs supporting the MBS service. The method includes a UE accessing the MBS service of interest from the BS using the selected BWP and the control information.

[0028] In one embodiment, the UE selects a BWP to support an MBS service of interest based on a first message. This includes the UE determining, based on the MBS service support indication in the first message, that the UE's primary cell does not support the MBS service and the UE's secondary cell supports the MBS service, and the UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS to receive control information for the MBS service, wherein the UE accesses the MBS service from the BS via the secondary cell.

[0029] In one embodiment, selecting a BWP that supports an MBS service of interest based on a first message includes the UE determining whether an initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, and when the initial BWP is not equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, selecting one of the BWPs from the BWP list that is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, and when the initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, selecting the initial BWP for accessing the MBS service.

[0030] In one embodiment, the method includes, in response to the BS broadcasting a second message, the UE receiving the second message via a selected BWP using a new RNTI.

[0031] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a BS in the wireless network broadcasting a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network. This first message includes a cell MBS service support indication, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The method includes a UE selecting a BWP supporting an MBS service of interest based on the first message. The method includes a UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS. The method includes the BS unicasting control information for the MBS service to the UE. The method includes a UE receiving control information for the MBS service using a cell RNTI (C-RNTI). The method includes a UE sending a request for the MBS service of interest and a specific BWP from the selected BWPs. The method includes, in response to receiving the request from the UE, the BS switching the UE's current BWP to the specific BWP. The method includes a UE accessing the MBS service of interest from the BS via the specific BWP and using the control information.

[0032] In one embodiment, the UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS includes the UE determining, based on the MBS service support indication in the first message, that the UE's primary cell does not support MBS service and the UE's secondary cell supports MBS service, and the UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS to receive control information for MBS service, wherein the UE accesses MBS service from the BS via the secondary cell.

[0033] In one embodiment, the BS switches between unicast signaling and broadcast signaling of control information based on the number of UEs available to receive control information.

[0034] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein both the UE and the BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message containing scheduling information (a second message) to multiple UEs in the wireless network. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a second message containing configuration information (a third message) to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information, wherein the third message includes control information for the MBS service. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast the third message to the multiple UEs. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to use the configuration information in the second message to receive the third message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to use the control information in the third message to access an MBS service of interest from the BS.

[0035] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein both the UE and the BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message containing scheduling information (a second message) to multiple UEs in the wireless network. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a second message containing control information for MBS services to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to access an MBS service of interest from the BS using the control information in the second message.

[0036] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein both the UE and the BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message including an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a second message including control information for the MBS service to the multiple UEs via the BWPs supporting the MBS service. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to select a BWP supporting an MBS service of interest based on the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to access the MBS service of interest from the BS via the selected BWP and using the control information in the second message.

[0037] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein the UE and BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message including an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to unicast control information for the MBS service to the UE in response to the UE establishing an RRC connection. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to switch the UE's current BWP to a specific BWP in response to a request received from the UE. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to select a BWP supporting the MBS service of interest based on the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to establish an RRC connection with the BS. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive control information for the MBS service from the BS using a C-RNTI. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to send a request for the MBS service of interest and a specific BWP among the selected BWPs. The UE's MBS controller is configured to switch the UE's current BWP to a specific BWP, and access the MBS service of interest from the BS through the specific BWP using control information.

[0038] These and other aspects of the embodiments herein will be better understood and appreciated when considered in conjunction with the following description and accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that while the following description points to preferred embodiments and many specific details therein, these descriptions are given by way of illustration and not limitation. Many changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the embodiments, and the embodiments herein encompass all such modifications.

[0039] Beneficial effects

[0040] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method and system for managing configuration and control information for MBS services in an NR wireless network are provided. Attached Figure Description

[0041] This disclosure is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals denote corresponding parts in the various figures. The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0042] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the signaling of control information for MBS services between the UE and BS according to the embodiments disclosed herein;

[0044] Figure 3 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the mixed-mode transmission of signaling for control information of MBS services between a UE and a BS according to embodiments disclosed herein;

[0045] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the mixed-mode transmission of signaling for a specific set and the remaining set of control information of MBS services between a UE and a BS according to embodiments disclosed herein.

[0046] Figure 5 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the broadcast transmission of signaling for control information of MBS services between a UE and a BS according to embodiments disclosed herein;

[0047] Figure 6 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the broadcast transmission of signaling for MBS service between a UE and a BS for sub-cell-level support according to embodiments disclosed herein; and

[0048] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram illustrating the mixed-mode transmission of signaling for MBS services between a UE and a BS for sub-cell-level support or secondary cell (SCell) support of MBS, according to embodiments disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The embodiments described herein, along with their various features and advantageous details, are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques have been omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments herein. Furthermore, the various embodiments described herein are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some embodiments may be combined with one or more other embodiments to form new embodiments. Unless otherwise stated, the term "or" as used herein means non-exclusive or unless otherwise stated. The examples used herein are merely to facilitate understanding of how the embodiments described herein can be practiced, and further to enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein. Therefore, these examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments described herein.

[0050] In accordance with the tradition of the art, embodiments can be described and illustrated based on blocks that perform one or more described functions. These blocks may be referred to herein as managers, units, modules, hardware components, etc., and are physically implemented by analog and / or digital circuitry, such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, memory circuits, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuitry, etc., and optionally driven by firmware. For example, the circuitry may be contained in one or more semiconductor chips, or on a substrate such as a printed circuit board. The circuitry constituting a block may be implemented by dedicated hardware, or by a processor (e.g., one or more programmed microprocessors and associated circuitry), or by a combination of dedicated hardware performing some functions of the block and a processor performing other functions of the block. Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, each block of an embodiment may be physically divided into two or more interacting and discrete blocks. Similarly, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the blocks of an embodiment may be physically combined into more complex blocks.

[0051] The accompanying drawings are provided to aid in the easy understanding of the various technical features, and it should be understood that the embodiments presented herein are not limited to the drawings. Therefore, this disclosure should be construed as extending to any modifications, equivalents, and substitutions other than those specifically set forth in the drawings. While the terms first, second, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are generally used only to distinguish one element from another.

[0052] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a first message broadcast by a BS in the wireless network to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message containing scheduling information and a second message. The method includes receiving the first message by one of the multiple UEs. The method includes a second message broadcast by the BS to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information, the second message containing configuration information and a third message, wherein the third message includes control information for the MBS service. The method includes receiving the second message by a UE based on the scheduling information in the first message. The method includes broadcasting the third message by the BS to the multiple UEs. The method includes receiving the third message by a UE using the configuration information in the second message. The method includes accessing an MBS service of interest from the BS by a UE using the control information in the third message.

[0053] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a first message broadcast by a BS in the wireless network to multiple UEs in the wireless network, containing scheduling information and a second message. The method includes a UE receiving the first message. The method includes the BS broadcasting a second message, including control information for MBS services, to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information. The method includes a UE receiving the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The method includes a UE using the control information in the second message to access an MBS service of interest from the BS.

[0054] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a BS in the wireless network broadcasting a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network. This first message includes an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of Bandwidth Parts (BWPs) supporting MBS services, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The method includes a UE selecting a BWP supporting an MBS service of interest based on the first message. The method includes the BS broadcasting a second message containing control information for the MBS service to the multiple UEs via the BWPs supporting the MBS service. The method includes a UE accessing the MBS service of interest from the BS via the selected BWP and using the control information.

[0055] Therefore, embodiments of this document provide a method for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The method includes a BS in the wireless network broadcasting a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network. This first message includes a cell MBS service support indication, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The method includes a UE selecting a BWP supporting an MBS service of interest based on the first message. The method includes a UE establishing an RRC connection with the BS. The method includes the BS unicasting control information for the MBS service to the UE. The method includes a UE receiving control information for the MBS service using a cell RNTI (C-RNTI). The method includes a UE sending a request for the MBS service of interest and a specific BWP from the selected BWPs. The method includes, in response to receiving the request from the UE, the BS switching the UE's current BWP to the specific BWP. The method includes a UE accessing the MBS service of interest from the BS via the specific BWP and using the control information.

[0056] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein the UE and BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message containing scheduling information (a second message) to multiple UEs in the wireless network. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a second message containing configuration information (a third message) to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information, wherein the third message includes control information for the MBS service. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast the third message to the multiple UEs. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to use the configuration information in the second message to receive the third message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to use the control information in the third message to access an MBS service of interest from the BS.

[0057] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein both the UE and the BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message containing scheduling information (a second message) to multiple UEs in the wireless network. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a second message containing control information for MBS services to the multiple UEs based on the scheduling information. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to access an MBS service of interest from the BS using the control information in the second message.

[0058] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein both the UE and the BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message including an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a second message including control information for the MBS service to the multiple UEs via the BWPs supporting the MBS service. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to select a BWP supporting an MBS service of interest based on the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to access the MBS service of interest from the BS via the selected BWP and using the control information in the second message.

[0059] Accordingly, embodiments of this document provide a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network. The system includes a UE and a BS, wherein the UE and BS include an MBS controller. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to broadcast a first message to multiple UEs in the wireless network, the first message including an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to unicast control information for the MBS service to the UE in response to the UE establishing an RRC connection. The MBS controller of the BS is configured to switch the UE's current BWP to a specific BWP in response to a request received from the UE. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to select a BWP supporting the MBS service of interest based on the first message. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to establish an RRC connection with the BS. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to receive control information for the MBS service from the BS using a C-RNTI. The MBS controller of the UE is configured to send a request for the MBS service of interest and a specific BWP from the selected BWPs. The UE's MBS controller is configured to switch the UE's current BWP to a specific BWP, and access the MBS service of interest from the BS through the specific BWP using control information.

[0060] Unlike existing methods and systems, NR (New Radio) has certain specific requirements and different system configurations, such as the use of bandwidth portions, subcarrier spacing, beamforming, and new frame structures. This necessitates new designs and methodologies to support MBS services on NR. For example, the UE needs to switch to the appropriate BWP or notify the network to switch to the appropriate BWP and / or reconfigure to the appropriate delivery mode in order to receive MBS services. Furthermore, some 5G MBS services require high reliability and low latency (e.g., mission-critical latency-sensitive signaling requires a 60ms packet delay budget and 10...). -6 (Packet error rate). Meeting these requirements necessitates new methods and service provisioning under specific RRC states; for example, only connection-only modes can facilitate feedback and retransmission methods.

[0061] Now refer to the attached diagram, especially Figures 1 to 7 A preferred embodiment is shown.

[0062] Figure 1This is a block diagram of a system for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network according to embodiments disclosed herein. Examples of wireless networks are cellular networks (e.g., 5G NR cellular networks, 4G LTE, 6G). The wireless network is formed by multiple UEs (100A) connected to a base station (BS) (200). In one embodiment, the proposed system includes multiple UEs (100A) and a BS (200). Examples of multiple UEs (100A) include, but are not limited to, terminals, smartphones, tablets, personal digital assistants (PDAs), desktop computers, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, wearable devices, televisions, vehicles with communication facilities, etc.

[0063] An example of a BS (200) is a gNodeB (gNB). In one embodiment, each of a plurality of UEs (100A) includes an MBS controller (110), a memory (120), a processor (130), and a communicator (140). The MBS controller (110) may be defined as a controller. The controller performs the operations of the UE described in the various embodiments of this disclosure. The communicator (140) may be defined as a transceiver. In one embodiment, a BS (200) includes an MBS controller (210), a memory (220), a processor (230), and a communicator (240). The MBS controller (220) may be defined as a controller. The controller performs the operations of the BS described in the various embodiments of this disclosure. The communicator (240) may be defined as a transceiver. The MBS controllers (110, 220) are implemented by processing circuitry, such as logic gates, integrated circuits, microprocessors, microcontrollers, storage circuitry, passive electronic components, active electronic components, optical components, hardwired circuitry, etc., and may optionally be driven by firmware. For example, the circuit can be contained in one or more semiconductor chips, or on a substrate such as a printed circuit board.

[0064] In one embodiment, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a first message containing scheduling information with a second message to multiple UEs (100A). In one embodiment, the first message is an SIB1 message, and the scheduling information in the first message includes the scheduling time and / or period of the MBS SIB (i.e., the second message). In one embodiment, the second message is a new MBS SIB message, and the second message includes a change notification configuration that allows the UE (100) to periodically check for changes in the MBS service. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) receives the first message. Additionally, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a second message containing configuration information with a third message to the multiple UEs (100A) based on the scheduling information, wherein the third message includes control information for the MBS service.

[0065] In one embodiment, the third message is the MCCH. In one embodiment, the control information for the MBS service includes support for the MBS service on the cell, a list of services requested by the UE (100), relevant configurations such as bearer configuration, channel configuration, protocol layer configuration, a list of services available in the current serving cell, a list of services available in both the serving cell and neighboring cells, a list of additional services available in a specific neighboring cell, configuration information for the traffic channel (MTCH), configuration information for the MBS services supported in the current serving cell, including the Group Radio Network Temporary Identifier (G-RNTI) for each service, or discontinuous reception (DRX) scheduling information for the service, wherein the configuration information for the MBS service indicates the relevant Radio Resource Control (RRC) status(s) for access to a specific MBS service. Neighboring cell information includes the Physical Cell Identifier (PCID), frequency or carrier, and the MBS services supported as a list or bitmap, where bits represent neighboring cells. For example, an 8-bit bitmap would have 8 neighboring cells and could indicate for each MBS service its availability to neighboring cells. Another representation could be, for each of the 8 neighboring cells, indicating the presence or absence of an MBS service on each of them.

[0066] The MBS controller (110) receives the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. Furthermore, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a third message to multiple UEs (100A). In one embodiment, the MBS controller (110) sends a request to the BS (200) to broadcast both the second and third messages, whereby the BS (200) also undertakes the transmission of related messages based on requests from UEs (100). In one embodiment, when a UE (100) is in a connected state, the MBS controller (210) unicasts the third message to the UE (100). The MBS controller (110) receives the third message using the configuration information in the second message. In one embodiment, the MBS controller (110) receives the third message based on the configuration information and using a new RNTI (MBS-RNTI), where the new RNTI is used to decode the control (Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH)) and / or data (Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH)) channels of the MBS Control Channel (MCCH). In addition, the MBS controller (110) uses the control information in the third message to access the MBS service of interest from the BS (200).

[0067] In another embodiment, in response to receiving a third message, the MBS controller (110) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200) for accessing a specific set (i.e., a first set) of MBS services that are allowed to be accessed under the RRC connection state. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) detects interest in the remaining set (i.e., a second set) of MBS services. Additionally, the MBS controller (210) sends a fourth message including a service configuration that includes additional MBS control information allowing the UE (100) to access the remaining set (i.e., the second set) of MBS services. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) sends a request to the BS (200) for access to the remaining set of MBS services based on the service configuration. Finally, the MBS controller (210) provides the remaining set of MBS services to the UE (100).

[0068] In another embodiment, in response to receiving a third message, the MBS controller (110) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200) for accessing a specific set of MBS services that are allowed to be accessed under the RRC connection state. Furthermore, the MBS controller (210) sends an RRC reconfiguration to the UE (100) including a configuration for the UE (100) to request additional MBS control information and / or a configuration for interest indication. Additionally, the MBS controller (110) sends an interest indication or request for additional MBS control information to the BS (200). The interest indication is sent by the UE (100) to the BS (200) as a UE assistance information message or a new RRC message for MBS interest indication. The configuration provided by the BS (200) to the UE (100) includes at least one of a trigger, a periodic timer, and a disable timer for sending the UE assistance information message or MBS interest indication. Furthermore, the MBS controller (210) sends a fourth message including a service configuration that includes additional MBS control information allowing the UE (100) to access the remaining set of MBS services. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) sends a request to the BS (200) for the remaining set of MBS services based on the service configuration using at least one of RRC signaling or MAC signaling. Additionally, the MBS controller (210) provides the remaining set of MBS services to the UE (100).

[0069] In another embodiment, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a first message containing scheduling information with a second message to multiple UEs (100A). Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) receives the first message. In another embodiment, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a second message to the multiple UEs (100A) based on the scheduling information, wherein the second message includes control information for the MBS service. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) receives the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) uses the control information in the second message to access the MBS service of interest from the BS (200).

[0070] In another embodiment, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a first message to multiple UEs (100A). In another embodiment, the first message is an SIB1 message or a new MBS SIB message, and the first message includes an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of bandwidth portions (BWPs) supporting MBS services, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. The MBS controller (110) selects a BWP that supports the MBS service of interest based on the first message. In one embodiment, the MBS controller (110) determines whether an initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service. When the initial BWP is not equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, the MBS controller (110) selects a BWP from the list of BWPs that are equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service.

[0071] When the initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, the MBS controller (110) selects the initial BWP for accessing the MBS service. Furthermore, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a second message including control information for the MBS service to multiple UEs (100A) via the BWP supporting the MBS service. Additionally, the MBS controller (110) accesses the MBS service of interest from the BS (200) via the selected BWP and using the control information. In one embodiment, the MBS controller (110) receives the second message from the BS (200) via the selected BWP using a new RNTI (MBS-RNTI).

[0072] In another embodiment, the MBS controller (210) broadcasts a first message to multiple UEs (100A), the first message including an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) selects a BWP that supports the MBS service of interest based on the first message. Additionally, the MBS controller (110) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200). Furthermore, the MBS controller (210) unicasts control information for the MBS service to the UEs (100). Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) receives the control information for the MBS service using the cell RNTI (C-RNTI). Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) sends a request for the MBS service of interest and / or a specific BWP from the selected BWPs. Furthermore, in response to receiving the request from the UE (100), the MBS controller (210) switches the UE (100)'s current BWP to the specific BWP. In addition, the MBS controller (110) accesses the MBS service of interest from the BS (200) via a specific BWP and using control information.

[0073] In another embodiment, the MBS controller (110) determines, based on the MBS service support indication in the first message, that the primary cell (PCell) of the UE (100) does not support MBS service, and that the secondary cell (SCell) of the UE (100) supports MBS service. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200) to receive control information for MBS service, wherein the UE (100) accesses the MBS service from the BS (200) via the secondary cell.

[0074] In another embodiment, the MBS controller (210) switches between unicast signaling and broadcast signaling of control information based on the number of UEs (100) available to receive control information.

[0075] In another embodiment, the MBS controller (110) detects that the UE (100) is in a connected state or using an incorrect BWP / carrier. Furthermore, the MBS controller (110) indicates to the BS (200) that the UE (100) is in a connected state or using an incorrect BWP / carrier. Additionally, the MBS controller (210) receives the indication from the UE (100) that the UE (100) is in a connected state or using an incorrect BWP / carrier. Furthermore, when the UE (100) is in a connected state or using an incorrect BWP / carrier, the MBS controller (210) unicasts a third message to the UE (100). Additionally, the MBS controller (110) receives the third message unicast by the BS (200).

[0076] Memory (120) and memory (220) store instructions to be executed by processor (130) and processor (230), respectively. Memory (120, 220) may include non-volatile storage elements. Examples of such non-volatile storage elements may include magnetic hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks, flash memory, or electrically programmable memory (EPROM) or electrically erasable programmable memory (EEPROM). Furthermore, in some examples, memory (120, 220) may be considered a non-transitory storage medium. The term "non-transitory" may mean that the storage medium is not contained in a carrier wave or propagating signal. However, the term "non-transitory" should not be construed as meaning that memory (120) is non-removable.

[0077] In some examples, the memory (120, 220) may be configured to store a larger amount of information than its storage space allows. In some examples, non-transitory storage media may store data that can change over time (e.g., in random access memory (RAM) or cache). The memory (120) may be an internal storage unit, or it may be an external storage unit of the UE (100), cloud storage, or any other type of external storage. The memory (220) may be an internal storage unit, or it may be an external storage unit of the BS (200), cloud storage, or any other type of external storage. The processor (130) and processor (230) are configured to execute instructions stored in the memory (120) and memory (220), respectively.

[0078] The processors (130, 230) can be general-purpose processors, such as central processing units (CPUs), application processors (APs), etc., and graphics processing units, such as graphics processing units (GPUs), visual processing units (VPUs), etc. The processors (130, 230) can include multiple cores to execute instructions. The communicators (140) and (240) are configured for internal communication between hardware components in the UE (100) and BS (200), respectively. Furthermore, the communicators (140, 240) are configured to facilitate communication between the UE (100) and BS (200) via one or more networks (e.g., radio technology). The communicators (140, 240) include electronic circuitry dedicated to implementing standards for wired or wireless communication.

[0079] although Figure 1 The hardware components of the UE (100) and BS (200) are shown, but it should be understood that other embodiments are not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the UE (100) and BS (200) may include fewer or more components. Furthermore, the labels or names of the components are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of this disclosure. One or more components may be combined together to perform the same or substantially similar functions for managing control information for MBS services in a wireless network.

[0080] Figure 2 This is a sequence diagram S200 illustrating the signaling of control information for MBS service between UE (100) and BS (200) according to the embodiments disclosed herein. 201-206 are the sequential steps in sequence diagram S200. At 201, BS (200) broadcasts a first message (i.e., SIB 1 message) to UE (100) containing scheduling information with a second message (i.e., a new MBS SIB message). Furthermore, UE (100) receives the first message. At 202, BS (200) broadcasts a second message to UE (100) based on the scheduling information in the first message, containing configuration information including scheduling information with a third message, wherein the second message includes a change notification configuration allowing UE (100) to periodically check for changes in the MBS service. At 203, UE (100) receives the second message using a System Information Radio Network Temporary Identifier (SI-RNTI).

[0081] At 204, the BS (200) broadcasts a third message (i.e., an MCCH message) to the UE (100), which includes control information for the MBS service. In one embodiment, when the UE (100) is in a connected state, the BS (200) unicasts the third message to the UE (100). At 205, the UE (100) uses the configuration information in the second message and a new RNTI (MBS-RNTI) to receive the third message. At 206, the UE (100) begins an MBS session by accessing the MBS service of interest from the BS (200) using the control information in the third message.

[0082] In another embodiment, a new MBS SIB is introduced to indicate cell support for the MBS service and to broadcast a list of services supported on the serving and neighboring cells to the UE (100). A UE (100) interested in the MBS services supported in the receiving cell establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200) and requests the services of interest. Upon receiving this request, the serving BS (200) sends scheduling information about the supported or interested services to the UE (100) via unicast. This information is sent to the UE (100) either in the New Information Element (IE) of the RRC reconfiguration message or as a new message providing MBS configuration to the UE (100).

[0083] Figure 3This is a sequence diagram S300 illustrating a hybrid mode transmission of signaling for control information of MBS service between UE (100) and BS (200) according to an embodiment disclosed herein. 301-307 are the sequential steps in sequence diagram S300. At 301, BS (200) broadcasts a first message (i.e., SIB 1 message) to UE (100) containing scheduling information with a second message (i.e., a new MBS SIB message). UE (100) receives the first message. At 302, BS (200) broadcasts a second message to UE (100) based on the scheduling information in the first message, containing configuration information including a third message, wherein the second message includes a change notification configuration allowing UE (100) to periodically check for changes in the MBS service. UE (100) receives the second message. At 303, BS (200) broadcasts a third message (i.e., MCCH message) to UE (100), wherein the third message includes control information for accessing a specific set of MBS services.

[0084] At 304, the UE (100) expresses interest in accessing any MBS service. At 305, in response to receiving the third message, the UE (100) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200) and requests a list of services available on the cell. At 306, the BS (200) sends a fourth message including MBS control information, which includes a list of services supported on the cell, a list of services supported on neighboring cells, a list of services supported on the serving cell, and a list of neighboring cells supporting the same services. In another embodiment, the BS (200) may signal the service configuration and service list (in this case, sending the scheduling of all supported services), or signal the service configuration upon receiving an interest indication from the UE (100) (in this case, signaling only the scheduling information of the services of interest). Furthermore, the UE (100) sends a request to the BS (200) for access to the remaining set of MBS services based on the service configuration. Additionally, the BS (200) provides the UE (100) with the remaining set of MBS services. In 307, the UE (100) begins an MBS session by accessing the service of interest from the BS (200).

[0085] In one embodiment, the BS (200) sends a service list to the UE (100) in a new IE in an RRC reconfiguration message or as a new message providing MBS configuration. In one embodiment, the BS (200) uses a UE information request or a configuration to provide UE assistance information to the UE (100) to configure the UE (100) interested in receiving MBS services to send a service list query. In another embodiment, the UE (100) sends a service list query to the serving cell via a UE information message or UE assistance information or via a (Media Access Control - Control Element) MAC-CE. In yet another embodiment, the serving cell sends the service list query via a new IE in an RRC reconfiguration message or as a new message providing MBS configuration. Figure 3 As part of the other configuration shown, the scheduling configuration of the MBS service of interest is provided to the UE (100).

[0086] Figure 4 This is a sequence diagram S400 illustrating a mixed-mode transmission of signaling for a specific set and a remaining set of MBS services between a UE (100) and a BS (200) according to embodiments disclosed herein. 401-408 are the sequential steps in sequence diagram S400. At 401, the BS (200) broadcasts a first message (i.e., an SIB 1 message) to the UE (100) containing scheduling information with a second message (i.e., a new MBSSIB message). Furthermore, the UE (100) receives the first message. At 402, the BS (200) broadcasts a second message to the UE (100) based on the scheduling information in the first message, containing configuration information including scheduling information with a third message, wherein the second message includes a change notification configuration that allows the UE (100) to periodically check for changes in the MBS services. The change notification configuration includes a new RNTI for decoding downlink control information on the PDCCH of the MCCH change notification message. The MCCH change notification is a string of bits, where each bit indicates a specific indication, such as the start of a new session, the end of a session, or a change in session or related configuration. Additionally, the UE (100) receives a second message. At 403, the BS (200) broadcasts a third message (i.e., the MCCH message) to the UE (100), which includes a specific set of control information for accessing MBS services. In the connected state, the available configurations of services may be limited. If the UE (100) is interested in accessing any MBS service supported on the cell, the UE (100) indicates its interest in that service to the BS (200). For the purpose of sending the interest indication, a UE in an idle and / or inactive state will trigger RRC connection establishment and / or recovery.

[0087] In one embodiment, if the UE (100) is interested in receiving a service, the UE (100) indicates its interest in receiving the service via RRC signaling indicating the session ID. In another embodiment, the UE (100) indicates its interest in receiving MBS services by using a MAC CE indicating the index of the service that the UE (100) is interested in receiving. When the interest indication is received from the UE (100), the BS (200) signals to the UE (100) via unicast information about the scheduling of the supported or interested services. The information is sent to the UE (100) using a new IE in the RRC reconfiguration message or as a new message providing MBS configuration. At 404, in response to receiving a third message, the UE (100) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200) and requests a list of services available on the cell. At 405, the BS (200) sends an RRC reconfiguration to the UE (100) including configuration for the UE (100) to request additional MBS control information and / or configuration for the interest indication. At 406, the UE (100) sends a request to the BS (200) for access to the remaining set of MBS services using RRC or MAC signaling based on the service configuration. At 407, the BS (200) provides the UE with additional MBS control information and / or configuration, which allows the UE (100) to access the remaining set of MBS services. At 408, the UE (100) begins an MBS session by accessing the services of interest from the BS (200) using the MBS control information.

[0088] Unlike existing methods and systems, the proposed method has the following advantages: streamlined broadcast signaling (i.e., configuration information received by the UE (100) in unicast signaling, where the broadcast content is reduced or these services do not require broadcast content), and ease of processing changes in multicast information. However, the UE (100) only becomes aware of the MBS scheduling when entering the RRC connected state. Therefore, the UE (100) in the RRC idle / inactive state needs to establish a connection first to start the MBS session, which increases unicast signaling overhead because each UE (100) needs to send a separate signal notification. In one embodiment, the UE (100) in the RRC idle / inactive state needs to establish an RRC connection to receive MBS configuration and / or MBS services.

[0089] Figure 5This is a sequence diagram S500 illustrating the broadcast transmission of signaling for control information of MBS service between UE (100) and BS (200) according to embodiments disclosed herein. 501-504 are the sequential steps in sequence diagram S500. At 501, BS (200) broadcasts a first message (i.e., SIB 1 message) to UE (100) containing scheduling information with a second message (i.e., a new MBS SIB message). UE (100) receives the first message. At 502, BS (200) broadcasts a second message to UE (100) based on the scheduling information in the first message, wherein the second message includes complete control information for MBS service. The new MBS SIB message signals the service list (on the service and optional neighboring cells), and the scheduling information for all supported services, i.e., the new message using the SIB+ broadcast layering method, is encapsulated in a single message. In one embodiment, a new MBS SIB message is introduced to signal the MBS's cell support, service list, list of services supported on neighboring cells, list of neighboring cells supporting the services currently supported on the cell, and scheduling information for the supported services. The same signaling can be used for the UE (100) in any RRC state.

[0090] At 503, UE (100) receives the second message based on the scheduling information in the first message and using SI-RNTI. Typically, changes in the SIB message are indicated by changes in the value tag. This can be very verbose and is an alternative mechanism to using physical layer signaling to indicate that MBS information has changed. This can be done using a physical layer change notification or downlink control information (DCI) that specifically indicates that MBS information has changed. However, the presence / occurrence of the new MBS SIB message remains unchanged; that is, the existing SIB scheduling information remains valid. Upon receiving this change notification, UE (100) attempts to read the new MBS SIB message to update the stored information without needing to read the SIB1 message and value tag again. In one embodiment, a physical layer change notification or DCI is used to indicate changes in the new MBS SIB message. In another embodiment, UE (100) reads the new MBS SIB message directly upon receiving the change notification without needing to read the SIB1 message again. At 504, UE (100) begins an MBS session by accessing the service of interest from BS (200) using the control information in the second message.

[0091] Figure 6This is diagram S600 showing the sequence of broadcast transmissions of signaling for control information of MBS service between a UE (100) and a BS (200) for sub-cell-level support of MBS according to an embodiment disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the BS (200) deploys MBS service only in a subset of the entire carrier bandwidth, i.e., only in a few BWPs. In this case, the BS (200) needs to indicate the BWPs supporting MBS service. UEs (100) interested in MBS service will switch to one of the MBS BWPs broadcast in the SIB message (i.e., the initial MBS BWP), while other UEs remain on the original initial BWP. The MBS BWP may support only MBS service or support both MBS and unicast services, and this can also be signaled in the SIB message. The MBS BWP may or may not have a Synchronization Signaling Block (SSB) scheduled on it. If the SSB is not scheduled on the MBS BWP, the broadcast information (based on an earlier method using MBS SIB, MBS control information, or an existing SIB (such as SIB1)) also provides random access parameters.

[0092] Steps 601-606 are sequential steps in sequence diagram S600. In this embodiment, at 601, the UE (100) uses an initial BWP. At 602, the BS (200) broadcasts a first message (i.e., an SIB 1 message or a new SIB message) to the UE (100), wherein the first message includes an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting the MBS service, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. In one embodiment, the MBS service is supported only on some BWPs, rather than across the entire carrier frequency. In another embodiment, when the UE (100) is in an RRC idle state or an RRC inactive state, the initial MBS BWP is introduced, and the UE (100)'s radio frequency can be tuned to receive MBS control information and MBS service packets. At 603, the UE (100) selects a BWP that supports the MBS service of interest based on the first message. In one embodiment, the UE (100) determines whether the initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service. When the initial BWP is not equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, the UE (100) selects a BWP from the list of BWPs that are equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service. When the initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, the UE (100) selects the initial BWP for accessing the MBS service.

[0093] At 604, the BS (200) broadcasts a second message (i.e., a new MBS SIB message) containing complete control information for the MBS service to multiple UEs (100A) via a BWP that supports the MBS service. At 605, the UE (100) receives the second message from the BS (200) via the selected BWP using a new RNTI (MBS-RNTI). At 606, the UE (100) initiates an MBS session by accessing the service of interest from the BS (200) via the selected BWP and using the control information. The new MBS SIB message or an existing SIB message (i.e., the SIB1 message) indicates that the MBS exists in the BWP list, and if it is broadcast in the MBS BWP, it indicates that the configuration of the MBS configuration message is read (i.e., the MBS configuration information is BWP-specific, not cell-specific). The SIB message further indicates whether the MBS BWP supports unicast services in addition to the MBS. When the SSB is unavailable on the MBS BWP, and when using the unicast method of multicast information signaling, the SIB can also signal the random access channel (RACH) parameters of the MBS BWP. When using the broadcast method of multicast configuration signaling, the RACH parameters can be provided as part of the multicast configuration itself.

[0094] In one embodiment, the SIB indicates whether the BS (200) supports cell-specific MBS or BWP-specific support. It is also possible that the services supported on each BWP are different (considering that each BWP may have different parametric properties). Furthermore, the SIB also includes the services supported on each MBS BWP. In another embodiment, the SIB signals the BWPs that support MBS services, along with the services supported on each BWP. In one embodiment, the wireless network is deployed to support MBS services only on its SCells, not on its PCells. The indicator in the SIB can indicate whether the current cell does not support MBS, but whether the available (i.e., configurable) SCell supports MBS (considering that network operators can configure some cells to be used only as SCells and not as PCells). Therefore, the UE (100) can establish a connection on the PCell / BWP and configure the appropriate SCell when entering the RRC connected state to utilize MBS services. In one embodiment, MBS services are supported only on the SCell, and the MBS control information is notified to the UE (100) in the RRC connected state using a new IE in the RRC reconfiguration message or a new RRC message. In another embodiment, the SIB1 message is followed by a new MBS SIB message carrying the MCCH configuration. In addition, another "new SIB message" (different from MBS) is introduced. The new SIB message carries the frequency and a mapping of MBS services available on neighboring cells / frequency (in short, frequency-service mapping information). This new SIB message can also be broadcast by the BS (200) on cells that do not support MBS transmission (i.e., non-MBS cells). Therefore, the UE (100) on a non-MBS cell knows the frequency-service mapping information of the MBS service and reselects the correct frequency / cell to receive the MBS service of interest.

[0095] Figure 7 This is a sequence diagram S700 illustrating a mixed-mode transmission of signaling for control information of MBS service between a UE (100) and a BS (200) for sub-cell-level support or SCell support of MBS according to embodiments disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the wireless network is deployed to support MBS service only on its SCells and not on the primary cell. An indicator in the SIB indicates whether the current cell does not support MBS, but the available (configurable) SCells support MBS (considering that operators can configure some cells to be used only as SCells and not as PCells). The same or different indicators notify the UE (100) to support MBS service on its configurable cells. In one embodiment, MBS service is supported only on the SCell, and MBS control information is notified to the UE (100) in the RRC connection state using a new IE in an RRC reconfiguration message or a new RRC message.

[0096] Steps 701-707 are sequential steps in sequence diagram S700. In this embodiment, at 701, the UE (100) uses an initial BWP. At 702, the BS (200) broadcasts a first message (i.e., an SIB 1 message or a new SIB message) to the UE (100), wherein the first message includes an MBS service support indication for the cell, a list of BWPs supporting MBS services, and a list of MBS services associated with each BWP. At 703, the UE (100) selects a BWP that supports the MBS service of interest based on the first message. In one embodiment, the UE (100) determines whether the initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service. When the initial BWP is not equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, the UE (100) selects a BWP from the list of BWPs that are equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service. When the initial BWP is equal to or greater than the BWP required to access the MBS service, the UE (100) selects an initial BWP for accessing the MBS service. At 704, the UE (100) establishes an RRC connection with the BS (200). At 705, the BS (200) unicasts control information for the MBS service to the UE (100). At 706, the UE (100) receives control information for the MBS service using C-RNTI. At 707, the UE (100) sends a request for the MBS service of interest and / or a specific BWP among the selected BWPs. At 708, in response to receiving the request from the UE (100), the BS (200) switches the UE (100)'s current BWP to the specific BWP. At 709, the UE (100) begins an MBS session by accessing the service of interest from the BS (200) via the specific BWP and using the control information.

[0097] Unlike sub-cell-level support for MBS, the proposed method uses BWP-based MBS support signaling to broadcast MBS control information. In this proposed method, the existing SIB indicates whether the cell supports MBS service, but does not signal control information to access MBS service. Similar to the MBS SIB in previous embodiments, the indication is sent via a new SIB message. In one embodiment, the new indicator in the SIB signals BWP-based MBS support on the cell.

[0098] All other multicast configurations are provided as part of unicast signaling. In addition to MBS services (based on already broadcast information) and unicast signaling, BWP-specific configurations include the MBS-supported BWPs, the services supported in each BWP, and scheduling information for the supported services. In another embodiment, scheduling information is sent to the UE (100) only when an interest indication for a specific MBS service is received from the UE (100). In one embodiment, all these configurations are signaled to the UE (100) as a new IE in an RRC reconfiguration message or as a new RRC message. In another embodiment, BWP-specific MBS support and optional scheduling information are added as part of the existing connection-state BWP configuration.

[0099] Similar to the SI switching between broadcast and on-demand, messages carrying MBMS configuration can also switch between broadcast, on-demand, or unicast. Based on the number of UEs in the cell that have MBS capability or are interested in MBS, the BS (200) switches between broadcast signaling and unicast signaling for MBS configuration and / or MBS control information.

[0100] The various actions, behaviors, blocks, steps, etc. in sequence diagrams S200, S300, S400, S500, S600, and S700 can be executed in the order of presentation, in different orders, or simultaneously. Furthermore, in some embodiments, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, some actions, actions, blocks, steps, etc., can be omitted, added, modified, or skipped.

[0101] In the proposed method, all the information required to access the multicast service is signaled in multiple broadcast messages. The reason for different messages is that the scheduling frequencies of the SIB carrying MBS control information and the new broadcast message (i.e., MCCH or new MBS SIB) can differ; that is, the new broadcast message can be read at longer intervals. The content of the new broadcast message can change more frequently due to the addition / removal of services or changes in the scheduling of these services. Changes in the new broadcast message do not affect the new SIB, thus eliminating the need for UE procedures due to changes in value-labeled system information (SI). The advantage of this approach is that it uses common signaling for the UE (100) in all RRC states. The UE (100) does not need to enter the RRC connected state to retrieve any information about the MBS service and can directly begin service reception in the RRC idle or RRC inactive state, providing a simpler process for service continuity during reselection. The SIB only includes information related to the scheduling of the new broadcast message.

[0102] The new broadcast message includes a list of services available in the cell, a list of services available in both the serving cell and its neighboring cells, a list of additional services available in specific neighboring cells, and scheduling information (e.g., DRX scheduling configuration) for services supported in the current cell (including G-RNTI for each service). The UE (100) uses either the SI-RNTI or the new RNTI (i.e., MBS-RNTI) to decode the new broadcast message. In one embodiment, neighboring cell support for MBS services active / supported on the current serving cell is signaled as part of an RRC message carrying MBS control information. In another embodiment, the MBS control information may include a list of whether services are supported on neighboring cells. In yet another embodiment, a new RNTI is introduced to receive the MBS control information.

[0103] This new message can utilize the principle of on-demand SI messages. To reduce the number / frequency of times the UE (100) reads this broadcast message, a period during which the MBS service may change is also configured. This can be based on a modification period or a direct period. Therefore, the UE (100) that has already received the MBS configuration will only read the message again during the listed period or when the service of interest changes.

[0104] The foregoing description of specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others, by applying present knowledge, can readily modify and / or adapt such specific embodiments for various applications without departing from the general concept. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be understood within the equivalent meaning and scope of the disclosed embodiments. It should be understood that the wording or terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes and not for limitation. Thus, although embodiments herein have been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be implemented with modifications within the scope of the embodiments described herein.

Claims

1. A method performed by a terminal in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: Receive a system information block from the base station, including configuration information about control messages used for Multicast Broadcast Service (MBS); Based on configuration information and a specific radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) for MBS, control messages are received from the base station, which include control information about MBS. and Based on control information, data associated with MBS is received from the base station. The modification cycle associated with the control message is configured for MBS, and In cases where MBS serves on a secondary cell (SCell), MBS does not serve on a primary cell (PCell).

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Establish Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection, and Based on the RRC connection, receive RRC reconfiguration messages from the base station that include information about the MBS.

3. The method according to claim 1, in, The bandwidth portion (BWP) associated with MBS is configured based on system information blocks. Among them, BWP is defined for receiving control information about MBS, and MBS is supported on some BWPs across the entire bandwidth of the base station.

4. The method according to claim 1, in, Control information for the MBS used in SCell is communicated based on RRC reconfiguration messages, and The broadcast signaling and unicast signaling of MBS control information are switched based on the number of UEs in the cell.

5. A method performed by a base station in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: Send a system information block that includes configuration information about control messages used for Multicast Broadcast Service (MBS); Based on configuration information and a specific radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) for the MBS, control messages are sent, including control information about the MBS; and Based on control information, send data associated with MBS. The modification cycle associated with the control message is configured for MBS, and In cases where MBS serves on a secondary cell (SCell), MBS does not serve on a primary cell (PCell).

6. The method according to claim 5, in, Radio Resource Control (RRC) connections are established for the terminal, and Among them, RRC reconfiguration messages, including information about MBS, are sent to the terminal via the RRC connection.

7. The method according to claim 5, in, The bandwidth portion (BWP) associated with MBS is configured based on system information blocks. Among them, BWP is defined to receive control information about MBS, and MBS is supported on some BWPs across the entire bandwidth of the base station.

8. The method according to claim 5, in, Control information for the MBS used in SCell is communicated based on RRC reconfiguration messages, and The broadcast signaling and unicast signaling of MBS control information are switched based on the number of UEs in the cell.

9. A terminal in a wireless communication system, the terminal comprising: transceiver; and The controller is configured as follows: The system information block, which includes configuration information about control messages for Multicast Broadcast Service (MBS), is received from the base station via a transceiver. Based on configuration information and a specific radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) for MBS, control messages are received from the base station via a transceiver. These control messages include control information about the MBS. Based on control information, data associated with MBS is received from the base station via a transceiver. The modification cycle associated with the control message is configured for MBS, and In cases where MBS serves on a secondary cell (SCell), MBS does not serve on a primary cell (PCell).

10. The terminal according to claim 9, in, The controller is also configured as follows: Establish Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection, and Based on the RRC connection, an RRC reconfiguration message containing information about MBS is received from the base station via a transceiver.

11. The terminal according to claim 9, in, The bandwidth portion (BWP) associated with MBS is configured based on system information blocks. Among them, BWP is defined to receive control information about MBS, and MBS is supported on some BWPs across the entire bandwidth of the base station.

12. The terminal according to claim 9, wherein, Control information for the MBS used in SCell is communicated based on RRC reconfiguration messages, and The broadcast signaling and unicast signaling of MBS control information are switched based on the number of UEs in the cell.

13. A base station in a wireless communication system, the base station comprising: transceiver; and The controller is configured as follows: A system information block, including configuration information about control messages for Multicast Broadcast Service (MBS), is transmitted via transceiver. Based on configuration information and a specific radio network temporary identifier (RNTI) for the MBS, control messages are transmitted via transceiver. These control messages include control information about the MBS, and... Based on control information, data associated with MBS is transmitted via transceiver. The modification cycle associated with the control message is configured for MBS, and In cases where MBS serves on a secondary cell (SCell), MBS does not serve on a primary cell (PCell).

14. The base station according to claim 13, in, Radio Resource Control (RRC) connections are established for the terminal, and Among them, RRC reconfiguration messages, including information about MBS, are sent to the terminal via the RRC connection.

15. The base station according to claim 13, in, The bandwidth portion (BWP) associated with MBS is configured based on system information blocks. Among them, BWP is defined to receive control information about MBS, and MBS is supported on some BWPs across the entire bandwidth of the base station.

16. The base station according to claim 13, in, Control information for the MBS used in SCell is communicated based on RRC reconfiguration messages, and The broadcast signaling and unicast signaling of MBS control information are switched based on the number of UEs in the cell.

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