Multiple DRX Configurations for D2D Communication

Abstract

The wireless communication device (10) simultaneously maintains a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. Based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration, the wireless communication device (10) participates in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese patent application with the invention name of "Multiple DRX Configurations for D2D Communication" (application number: 202180058732.4, application date: July 29, 2021). Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for controlling device-to-device (D2D) communication, as well as corresponding devices, systems, and computer programs. Background Art

[0003] Current wireless communication networks (e.g., based on LTE (Long-Term Evolution) or NR technology as defined by 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project)) also support the D2D communication mode to enable direct communication between UEs (User Equipments) (sometimes also referred to as sidelink communication). Such D2D communication mode can be used, for example, in vehicle communication, including, for example, communication between vehicles, between a vehicle and roadside communication infrastructure, and possibly between a vehicle and a cellular network. Since a wide range of different types of devices can be involved in vehicle communication, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is another term used to refer to such communication. Vehicle communication has the potential to improve traffic safety, reduce energy consumption, and enable new services related to intelligent transportation systems.

[0004] Due to the nature of basic road safety services, LTE V2X functions have been designed for broadcast transmission, i.e., for transmissions in which all receivers within a specific range of the transmitter (i.e., can be considered as intended recipients) can receive messages from the transmitter. In fact, the transmitter may not know or otherwise cannot control the group of intended receivers. For example, the V2X functions for NR technology are described in 3GPP TR 38.885 V16.0.0 (2019-03). In NR technology, more targeted V2X services are also considered by supporting multicast, broadcast, or unicast transmissions, where the intended receivers of a message only include a subset of the receivers within a specific range of the transmitter (multicast) or a single receiver (unicast). For example, in a platooning service for vehicles, certain messages may only be of interest to the member vehicles in the platoon, such that the member vehicles in the platoon can effectively be the target of a multicast transmission. In another example, the perspective function (where one vehicle provides video data from a front camera to a subsequent vehicle) may involve V2X communication of only a pair of vehicles, and unicast transmission may be the preferred choice for such V2X communication. In addition, NR sidelink communication supports D2D communication for UEs with and without network coverage, where there are different degrees of interaction between the UE and the network, including the possibility of independent, network-free operation.

[0005] Other potential use cases for D2D communication include NSPS (National Security and Public Safety), Network Control Interaction Service (NCIS), and railway spacing analysis. To provide broader NR sidelink coverage for such use cases, further enhancement of NR sidelink technology is being considered. One such enhancement is power saving, which enables UEs with battery constraints to perform sidelink operations in a power-efficient manner. For example, the 3GPP work item description "NR Sidelink Enhancement" (document RP-193231, TSG RAN meeting #86, 2019-12) proposes to study sidelink discontinuous reception (DRX) operations for broadcast, multicast, and unicast transmission modes, which aims at the definition of sidelink DRX configurations and the procedures for implementing sidelink DRX in UEs, including mechanisms for aligning sidelink DRX configurations between UEs communicating with each other, and mechanisms for aligning sidelink DRX configurations with DRX configurations for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) communications via the Uu radio interface. However, suitable mechanisms and procedures have not been developed yet.

[0006] For NR technology, the DRX procedures for DL / UL communication via the Uu radio interface are specified in 3GPP TS 38.321 V16.0.0 (2020-03). Based on these procedures, the expected UE behavior in terms of the reception and processing of transmissions can be controlled. The underlying DRX function is based on defining the DRX active time (sometimes also referred to as the active time state or active state), during which the expected UE receives and processes incoming transmissions. For example, the expected UE decodes the DL control channel, processes the received grants, etc. Outside of the DRX active time (during the time also known as the DRX inactive time), it is not expected that the UE receives and processes transmissions. Therefore, the access node (labeled as "gNB" in NR technology) cannot assume that the UE will listen for DL transmissions. The DRX configuration can also define the transitions between states. Typically, UEs not in the DRX active time turn off some of their components and enter a low-power mode (e.g., sleep mode). To ensure that UEs periodically switch to the DRX active time (i.e., wake up from the sleep mode), the DRX cycle is defined. The DRX cycle can basically be based on two parameters: the period of the DRX cycle, which controls how frequently the UE switches to the DRX active time; and the duration of the DRX active time, which controls how long the UE is in the DRX active state. In addition to this basic DRX cycle, the DRX procedures also define other conditions that can allow the UE to switch between the DRX active time and the DRX inactive time. For example, if the UE is expecting a retransmission from the gNB, the UE can enter the DRX inactive time (e.g., when the gNB is ready to retransmit), and then can enter the DRX active time, which should match the time window in which it is expected that the gNB sends the retransmission. Typically, the DRX active time of the DRX cycle is determined by the DRX configuration. Therefore, the DRX configuration usually allows predicting when the UE will be in the DRX active time. On the other hand, due to various timers depending on the data traffic received or sent by the UE, predicting whether the UE is in the DRX active time can be much more difficult. The DRX procedures specified in 3GPP TS 38.321 V16.0.0 apply to DL / UL communication between the UE and the radio communication network, and not to SL communication or other types of D2D communication.

[0007] In addition, SL transmission is different from DL and UL transmission in many aspects. For example, in DL / UL communication, an access node (e.g., gNB) is one of the endpoints of the communication, and the communication is typically organized in a one-to-one manner (i.e., between a certain UE and a certain access node). This simplifies the DRX configuration at the UE. In addition, the access node is not constrained by the same power as the UE, so DRX is implemented at the UE rather than at the access node. SL communication is typically based on the use of a broadcast transmission mode. Even the unicast and multicast transmission modes of NR SL technology use broadcast communication to some extent, e.g., for discovery and connection establishment. However, the existing DRX procedures for DL / UL communication are based on the assumption that the communication is typically organized in a one-to-one manner, which allows the access node to distribute the load and thus effectively use all radio resources, which is not possible in the case of communication in the broadcast mode. In addition, in DL / UL communication, typically the access node is responsible for controlling the behavior of the UE, while for SL communication, many control functions are implemented in a distributed manner (e.g., distributed among the transmitting (TX) UE, receiving (RX) UE, and sometimes also the serving access node of the UE). Therefore, the appropriate configuration of DRX for SL transmission is much more complex than that for DL / UL communication.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for techniques that allow for the efficient implementation of DRX for sidelink transmission and other types of D2D transmission. SUMMARY

[0009] According to one embodiment, a method of controlling D2D communication is provided. According to the method, a wireless communication device simultaneously maintains a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. Based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration, the wireless communication device participates in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0010] According to another embodiment, a method of controlling D2D communication is provided. According to the method, a node of a wireless communication network configures a wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0011] According to another embodiment, a wireless communication device is provided. The wireless communication device is configured to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. In addition, the wireless communication device is configured to participate in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration.

[0012] According to another embodiment, a wireless communication device is provided. The wireless communication device includes at least one processor and a memory. The memory contains instructions executable by the at least one processor, whereby the wireless communication device is operable to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. Further, the memory contains instructions executable by the at least one processor, whereby the wireless communication device is operable to participate in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration.

[0013] According to another embodiment, a node for a wireless communication network is provided. The node is configured to configure a wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0014] According to another embodiment, a node for a wireless communication network is provided. The node includes at least one processor and a memory. The memory contains instructions executable by the at least one processor, whereby the node is operable to configure a wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a computer program or computer program product (e.g., in the form of a non-transitory storage medium) is provided, which includes program code to be executed by at least one processor of a wireless communication device. Execution of the program code causes the wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. Further, execution of the program code causes the wireless communication device to participate in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a computer program or computer program product (e.g., in the form of a non-transitory storage medium) is provided, which includes program code to be executed by at least one processor of a node for a wireless communication network. Execution of the program code causes the node to configure a wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0017] Specific details of such embodiments and further embodiments will be apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 Schematically illustrate an exemplary V2X scenario in which D2D communication can be controlled according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 Schematically illustrate an exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which D2D communication can be controlled according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 3 Schematically illustrate an exemplary NSPS communication scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which D2D communication can control the establishment of a direct wireless link.

[0021] Figure 4A Schematically illustrate a state diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention for showing enabling and disabling class-specific SL DRX configurations using received SL transmissions.

[0022] Figure 4B Schematically illustrate a state diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention for showing enabling and disabling class-specific SL DRX configurations using transmitted SL transmissions.

[0023] Figure 5A Schematically illustrate a state diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention for showing enabling and disabling class-specific SL DRX configurations using SL transmissions received based on a general SL DRX configuration.

[0024] Figure 5B Schematically illustrate a state diagram according to an embodiment of the present invention for showing enabling and disabling class-specific SL DRX configurations using SL transmissions transmitted based on a general SL DRX configuration.

[0025] Figure 6 Schematically illustrate an exemplary scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention in which a general SL DRX configuration and a class-specific SL DRX configuration are operated simultaneously.

[0026] Figure 7 Show a flowchart for schematically illustrating a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 8 Show for illustrating the implementation corresponding to Figure 7 an exemplary block diagram of the functions of a wireless communication device for the functions of a method.

[0028] Figure 9 Show a flowchart for schematically illustrating another method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 10Shows an exemplary block diagram for illustrating the functions of a network node that implements the functions of the method corresponding to Figure 9

[0030] Figure 11 Schematically illustrates the structure of a wireless communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 12 Schematically illustrates the structure of a network node according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed implementation

[0032] ​In the following, the concepts according to exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The illustrated embodiments relate to the control of D2D communication by wireless communication devices. These wireless communication devices may include various types of UEs or other wireless devices (WDs). As used herein, the term "wireless device" (WD) refers to a device capable of, configured to, arranged to, and / or operable to communicate wirelessly with a network node and / or other WDs. Unless otherwise specified, the term WD may be used interchangeably with UE herein. Wireless communication may involve transmitting and / or receiving wireless signals using electromagnetic waves, radio waves, infrared waves, and / or other types of signals suitable for transmitting information through the air. In some embodiments, a WD may be configured to transmit and / or receive information without direct human interaction. For example, a WD may be designed to transmit information to the network according to a predetermined schedule when triggered by an internal or external event, or in response to a request from the network. Examples of WDs include, but are not limited to, smart phones, mobile phones, cellular phones, IP voice (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, desktop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), wireless cameras, gaming consoles or devices, music storage devices, playback devices, wearable terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, tablet computers, laptop computers, laptop embedded devices (LEEs), laptop mounted devices (LMEs), smart devices, wireless client devices (CPEs), in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, connected vehicles, etc. In some examples, in an Internet of Things (IoT) scenario, a WD may also represent a machine or other device that performs monitoring and / or measurement and sends the results of such monitoring and / or measurement to another WD and / or network node. In this case, the WD may be a machine-to-machine (M2M) device, which may be referred to as a machine type communication (MTC) device in the 3GPP context. As a specific example, a WD may be a UE implementing the 3GPP narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) standard. Specific examples of such machines or devices are sensors, metering devices (such as power meters), industrial machinery, or household or personal appliances (e.g., refrigerators, televisions, etc.), or personal wearable devices (e.g., watches, fitness trackers, etc.). In other scenarios, a WD may represent a vehicle or other device capable of monitoring and / or reporting its operating status or other functions associated with its operation. A WD as described above may represent a wirelessly connected endpoint, in which case the device may be referred to as a wireless terminal. Additionally, a WD as described above may be mobile, in which case it may also be referred to as a mobile device or mobile terminal. The illustrated concepts particularly relate to WDs supporting D2D communication, for example by implementing 3GPP standards for sidelink communication, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), vehicle-to-everything (V2X).D2D communication can for example be based on LTE radio technology or NR radio technology as specified by 3GPP, for example on the PC5 interface of LTE or NR technology. However, note that the concepts described can also be applied to other radio technologies, for example, WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) technology.

[0033] In the concepts described, D2D communication can be performed in a power-efficient manner by using procedures and mechanisms enabling DRX operation for D2D communication. The DRX operation can for example be applied to sidelink (SL) communication via the PC5 interface of LTE or NR technology, which is labeled as "SL DRX" herein. The DRX operation can involve configuring DRX active time and DRX inactive time for UEs participating in D2D communication. A sequence of one DRX active time and a subsequent DRX inactive time can also be labeled as an "SL DRX cycle", bearing in mind that the SL DRX cycle does not need to repeat in a periodic manner, and the duration of the active time and / or the inactive time can vary from one SL DRX cycle to the next.

[0034] In the D2D communication considered herein, a UE can act as a receiver (also referred to as RX UE herein) and / or a transmitter (also referred to as TX UE herein). For the TX UE, participating in D2D communication can involve the TX UE sending at least one D2D transmission to the RX UE during the DRX active time. For the RX UE, participating in D2D communication can involve the RX UE receiving at least one D2D transmission from the TX UE during the DRX active time. During the DRX inactive time, the RX UE can switch off at least a part of its receiver circuitry to achieve power savings. During the DRX active time, the RX UE is in the DRX active mode and is not allowed to switch off parts of its receiver circuitry. The transition between the DRX active time and the DRX inactive time is controlled according to the DRX configuration of the UE (for example, using one or more timers and related parameters). The TX UE can take into account the DRX inactive time by refraining from sending any D2D transmissions to the RX UE during the DRX inactive time. Thus, the DRX configuration can be used at the RX UE to enable power savings by controlling the switching between the DRX active time and the DRX inactive time. In addition, the DRX configuration can be used at the TX UE to align the outgoing transmissions with the expected DRX behavior of the RX UE (or multiple RX UEs in the case of multicast or broadcast transmissions).

[0035] Note that some of the following examples are described from the perspective of the RX UE, while others are described from the perspective of the TX UE. However, the roles of the RX UE and the TX UE are interchangeable. In addition, a UE can act as both a TX UE and an RX UE simultaneously. Further, while the examples described below may assume that the D2D UE and its serving access node operate using the same radio access technology (RAT) (e.g., NR or LTE technology), the concepts described can be applied to any combination of RATs between the D2D UE and its serving access node. Additionally, in the concepts described, D2D transmissions can be based on unicast, multicast, or broadcast transmission modes.

[0036] Figure 1 An exemplary scenario involving V2X communication is illustrated. In particular, Figure 1 Various UEs 10 are shown, which can participate in V2X communication or other D2D communication, as indicated by the solid arrows. Additionally, Figure 1 An access node 100 of a wireless communication network is shown, e.g., an eNB for LTE technology or a gNB for NR technology, or an access point for WLAN. At least some of the UEs 10 may also be capable of communicating by using DL radio transmissions and / or UL radio transmissions, as indicated by the dashed arrows.

[0037] Figure 1 The UEs 10 shown in include vehicles, drones, mobile phones, and people, e.g., pedestrians, cyclists, drivers of vehicles, or passengers of vehicles. Note here that in the case of a vehicle, radio transmissions can be performed by a communication module installed in the vehicle, while in the case of a person, radio transmissions can be performed by a radio device carried or worn by the person (e.g., a wristband device or a similar wearable device). Additionally, note that Figure 1 the UEs shown in are merely exemplary, and other types of V2X communication devices or D2D communication devices can also be used in the concepts described, e.g., RSU (roadside unit) or other infrastructure-based V2X communication devices, V2X communication devices located in aircraft (such as airplanes or helicopters), spacecraft, trains or train cars, ships, motorcycles, bicycles, motor scooters, or any other type of mobile or transportation device. V2X communication can also involve using the illustrated mechanisms and processes to enable DRX operation for V2X communication between UEs 10, thereby improving the energy efficiency of V2X communication.

[0038] Figure 2 An exemplary D2D communication scenario is illustrated. In particular, Figure 2Shows multiple UEs 10 that are connected to each other via radio links that implement direct wireless links (shown by double-headed arrows). In addition, one of the UEs 10 is connected to an access node 100 of the wireless communication network via a radio link, for example, connected to an eNB of LTE technology or a gNB of NR technology. The access node 100 is part of the RAN (Radio Access Network) of the wireless communication network, which typically also includes other access nodes to provide the desired coverage of the wireless communication network. In addition, Figure 2 Shows the core network (CN) 210 of the wireless communication network. The CN 210 can provide a connection for the UE 10 to other data networks, for example, via a GW 220 provided in the CN 210. In addition, the CN 210 can also include various nodes for controlling the operation of the UE 10.

[0039] The radio link can be used for D2D communication between UEs 10. In addition, the radio link to the wireless communication network can be used to control or otherwise assist D2D communication. In addition, D2D communication and / or data communication with the wireless communication network can be used to provide various services to the UEs 10, such as voice services, multimedia services, data services, intelligent transportation systems (ITS) or similar vehicle management or coordination services, NSPS services, and / or NCIS services. Such services can be based on applications executed on the UEs 10 and / or devices linked to the UEs 10. Thus, in the illustrated concept, D2D transmissions can carry or correspond to V2X messages, ITS messages, or some other type of message related to the service. In addition, Figure 2 Illustrates an application service platform 250 in the CN 210 of the wireless communication network. In addition, Figure 2 Illustrates one or more application servers 300 provided outside the wireless communication network. Applications executed on the UEs 10 and / or one or more other devices linked to the UEs 10 can use radio links to one or more other UEs 10, the application service platform 250, and / or the application servers 300, thereby enabling corresponding services on the UEs 10. In some scenarios, the services used by the UEs 10 can thus be hosted on the network side, for example, on the application service platform 250 or the application server 300. However, some services can also be network-independent so that they can be used without an active data connection to the wireless communication network. This can apply, for example, to certain V2X or NSPS services. However, when the UEs 10 are within the coverage of the wireless communication network, such services can still be assisted from the network side. Also in Figure 2 the scenario, the UEs 10 can apply DRX operations to D2D communication to improve energy efficiency.

[0040] In Figure 2In the example, it is assumed that UE 10 is a mobile phone and a vehicle or a vehicle-based communication device (e.g., an in-vehicle or vehicle-integrated communication module), or a smart phone or other user equipment linked to a vehicle system. However, note that other types of UEs can also be used, e.g., a device carried by a pedestrian, or an infrastructure-based device such as a roadside unit as shown in Figure 1 the roadside unit shown in

[0041] Figure 3 schematically illustrates an NSPS communication scenario. In particular, Figure 3 shows a plurality of UEs 10 that can exchange NSPS messages associated with one or more NSPS services using D2D communication, e.g., based on LTE sidelink communication or NR sidelink communication. As further shown, network assistance for NSPS services can be provided by exchanging NSPS messages via access node 100. NSPS services can include, for example, group communication for rescue vehicles, rescue personnel, or other devices or personnel of public safety-related organizations. Such communication can also involve using the illustrated mechanisms and procedures to enable DRX operation for D2D communication between UEs 10, thereby improving the energy efficiency of D2D communication.

[0042] As mentioned above, in some scenarios, the D2D communication to which DRX operation is applied can be in the SL mode based on NR or LTE technology, using the PC5 radio interface. In this case, the SL communication can be based on multiple physical channels defined on the physical (PHY) layer of the radio interface between the TX UE and the RX UE, including the physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH), the physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH), the physical sidelink feedback channel (PSFCH), and the physical sidelink broadcast channel (PSBCH). The data decoded from the PHY layer can then be further processed by the MAC (Media Access Control) entity of the RX UE.

[0043] The PSCCH only carries control information, typically referred to as the first-stage SCI (Sidelink Control Information). It is sent in a predefined format in a predefined radio resource, allowing the RX UE to use blind decoding. That is, the RX UE attempts to decode the PSCCH in the predefined radio resource according to the predefined format without knowing in advance whether the PSCCH has actually been sent. If the decoding operation is successful, the RX UE assumes that the PSCCH has been sent. Otherwise, it assumes that the PSCCH has not been sent. The PSCCH carries the information necessary to decode the PSSCH.

[0044] The PSSCH carries both control information and a data payload. The control information is typically referred to as the second-stage SCI. It is transmitted using the radio resource allocation and transmission format indicated in the PSCCH. It also contains other information necessary for decoding the data payload carried by the PSSCH.

[0045] The PSFCH only carries feedback information. The content of the PSFCH depends on the mode of HARQ operation. In some cases, both positive (also labeled as ACK) and negative (also labeled as NACK) acknowledgments are sent. In other cases, only NACK is sent. The PSFCH transmission uses a predefined format and occurs in a predefined radio resource.

[0046] The PSBCH carries basic system configuration information, for example, related to bandwidth, TDD (Time Division Duplex) configuration, etc. In addition, the PSBCH carries synchronization signals.

[0047] For SL communication, typical operations can be as follows: The first UE performs SL transmission on the PSCCH and PSSCH. The second UE receives the SL transmission. Receiving the SL transmission may involve the second UE detecting the PSCCH by means of blind decoding and decoding the first-stage SCI carried by the PSCCH. If the blind decoding is successful, the second UE uses the decoded content of the PSCCH to decode the second-stage SCI carried by the PSSCH. After decoding the second-stage SCI, the second UE uses the first-stage SCI and the second-stage SCI to decode the payload data carried by the PSSCH. After successfully decoding the payload data, the second UE continues to send HARQ (Hybrid Automatic Repeat reQuest) feedback on the PSFCH. Different modes of providing HARQ feedback can be used. The first UE expects to receive HARQ feedback from the second UE and can use the presence and content of the PSFCH to determine further actions, for example, whether to perform a retransmission. Therefore, the PSDCH can be used to trigger actions related to HARQ operations for SL transmission. The use of HARQ feedback can also be omitted in some cases. For example, HARQ feedback is typically not used for SL transmission in broadcast mode. The TX UE (e.g., the first UE in the considered example) can indicate in the SCI whether it expects the RX UE (e.g., the second UE in the considered example) to send a PSFCH with HARQ feedback.

[0048] In the illustrated concept, DRX operation for SL transmission is based on configuring multiple SL DRX configurations for the UE. In particular, the UE simultaneously maintains two or more SL DRX configurations and selectively applies one or more of these SL DRX configurations when receiving or sending SL transmissions. To this end, the UE can selectively enable or disable certain SL DRX configurations.

[0049] In some scenarios, one or more of these SL DRX configurations may be category - specific, i.e., each SL DRX configuration is associated with a specific category of SL service. When the UE receives or transmits data packets of a specific category, these data packets can be used to control the DRX behavior associated with the corresponding SL DRX configuration (e.g., by starting, stopping, or resetting a timer) so that the resulting UE switches between DRX active time and DRX inactive time. Since the DRX behavior is controlled per SL DRX configuration, there can also be a separate DRX active time and a separate DRX inactive time for each SL DRX configuration. However, it should be noted that the separate DRX active time and the separate DRX inactive time are typically combined into an overall pattern according to which the UE is in a global DRX active time or a global DRX inactive time. In some aspects of the present disclosure, for example, when deciding whether to send data packets of a certain SL service category or which SL service category should be sent, the switch to the current DRX active time triggered by the SL DRX cycle can be used.

[0050] In some scenarios, multiple SL DRX configurations can include one specific SL DRX configuration (associated with a specific category of SL service), or multiple specific SL DRX configurations (each associated with a specific category of SL service), and a common SL DRX configuration (which is common for multiple or all categories of SL services). This common SL DRX configuration can then be used, for example, for those SL service categories that do not have an associated specific SL DRX configuration. In addition, this common SL DRX configuration can be used as a fallback or for bootstrapping a specific SL DRX configuration.

[0051] In the following, the illustrated concepts will be described in more detail, particularly considering the processes and mechanisms for operating multiple SL DRX configurations simultaneously, and the processes and mechanisms for providing SL DRX configurations that can be maintained and operated simultaneously. Here, note that the later processes and mechanisms can also be used independently of the processes for operating multiple SL DRX configurations mentioned first.

[0052] As used herein, an SL DRX configuration can be enabled (which can also be labeled as "activated" or "true") or disabled (which can also be labeled as "deactivated" or "false"). Herein, an enabled SL configuration is used to control the switching between DRX active time and DRX inactive time. A disabled SL configuration is configured in the UE, i.e., its parameters are defined and stored in the UE, but are not currently used to control the switching between DRX active time and DRX inactive time. In some parts of the present invention, it refers to the DRX configuration being enabled or disabled.

[0053] As mentioned above, in some scenarios, the UE can be configured with one or more class-specific SL DRX configurations. Such class-specific SL configurations are also labeled as S-DRX configurations herein. Each S-DRX configuration is associated with a specific class of SL service (e.g., a specific class of data packets transmitted by SL transmission). Generally, for each data packet transmitted by SL transmission, it is possible to determine whether it belongs to a specific class of SL service. Therefore, various types of information associated with the data packet can be used to define the specific class. Such information can include, for example, the identity (ID) of the UE that sent the data packet, such as the layer 1 (L1) ID used at the PHY layer, the layer 2 (L2 ID) used at the MAC layer. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include, for example, the source or destination address carried by the data packet, such as the L1 address or the L2 address. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include, for example, a combination of L1 ID or L2 ID. For example, a combination of L1 ID or L2 ID can be used to identify an SL unicast link. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include, for example, a link identifier, such as the identifier of an SL unicast link. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include, for example, the transmission mode of the data packet, which indicates whether the data packet is sent via unicast, multicast, or broadcast. For multicast, multiple subtypes can be identified. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include, for example, a service identifier, such as identifying whether the data packet is related to road safety services, public safety services, etc. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include, for example, location information, such as a region identifier. Additionally or alternatively, such information can include identifying the QoS (Quality of Service) flow, QoS level, QoS class, or priority level of the data packet.

[0054] The S-DRX configuration defines the DRX active state and the DRX inactive state, corresponding to the DRX active time and the DRX inactive time mentioned above respectively. For the S-DRX configuration, these states are also marked as the S-ACTIVE state (S-ACT) and the S-INACTIVE state (S-INACT) respectively in this article. In addition, the S-DRX configuration defines the transition between the S-ACTIVE and the S-INACTIVE states.

[0055] The S-DRX configuration can be used to enable power-efficient transmission of specific categories of data packets. For this purpose, the behavior of the RX UE can be as follows: If the RX UE is configured with the S-DRX configuration, then whenever it is in the S-ACTIVE state, it monitors the SL radio resources for SL transmissions including specific categories of data packets. When the RX UE is in the S-INACTIVE state, it is allowed to ignore or discard any received data packets of specific categories, or even turn off a part of its receiver circuit so as not to receive any SL transmissions. This behavior can be configured or pre-configured in the UE. In a corresponding manner, the TX UE whose at least potential RX UE is configured with the S-DRX configuration can operate by sending data packets of specific categories only when the RX UE is in the S-ACTIVE state.

[0056] In some scenarios, the category of a data packet can be indicated using L1 or L2 control signaling, for example, in the SCI or MAC CE (control element). Alternatively or additionally, the category of a data packet can be indicated in the header of the packet. For example, the identity and / or address and / or transmission mode can be indicated in the SCI of the SL transmission that conveys the data packet. If a given data packet can be assigned to different categories, the category indicated by the L1 or L2 control signaling can be selected to correspond to the category associated with the given SL transmission, for example, according to the identities of the TX UE and the RX UE and / or according to the SL radio bearer used.

[0057] In some scenarios, once configured or reconfigured, the S-DRX configuration can be enabled. The configuration or reconfiguration of the S-DRX configuration can be performed, for example, as part of the SL connection establishment procedure, as part of the SL radio bearer configuration procedure, or as part of the SL radio bearer reconfiguration procedure. For unicast, RRC (Radio Resource Control) (e.g., PC5 RRC messages) can be used to configure or reconfigure the S-DRX configuration. For example, when configuring or reconfiguring the S-DRX configuration per SL unicast connection, the initiating UE can send a dedicated PC5-RRC message containing the S-DRX configuration for the established SL unicast connection to the peer UE. This can be done after the PC5-S message exchange to establish the SL unicast connection and set up security. In another example, when configuring or reconfiguring the S-DRX configuration per SL radio bearer, the initiating UE can include the S-DRX configuration in the PC5-RRC RRCReconfigurationSidelink message sent to the peer UE.

[0058] In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration can also have a configurable initial state, e.g., defined by the SLAS (Serviceability Assurance Subsystem) configuration. This initial state can be configured to be enabled or disabled. Thus, the initial state after the S-DRX configuration is configured can be defined according to the current needs. In addition, the state can be changed by reconfiguration.

[0059] For example, if the S-DRX configuration is configured with an initial state of "disabled", the S-DRX configuration can be enabled by another control message (i.e., a control message separate from the control message that provided the S-DRX configuration). For example, the TX UE can enable the S-DRX configuration at the RX UE by sending a control message to the RX UE. In addition, the RX UE can decide to enable the S-DRX configuration and notify the TX UE by sending a control message to the TX UE. In each case, the control message can correspond to a dedicated PC5-RRC message, a MAC CE, or layer 1 signaling, such as a command carried by an SCI.

[0060] In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration can be implicitly enabled by an SL transmission, which does not require including a control message. For example, if a UE sends or receives an SL transmission of data packets of a specific class, this can enable the S-DRX configuration at the UE. In this case, the UE can also start a timer after receiving or sending the SL transmission, and the UE can keep the S-DRX configuration enabled until the timer expires. The timer can be configured together with the S-DRX configuration or by a separate control message (e.g., a dedicated PC5-RRC message, a MAC CE, or layer 1 signaling, such as a command carried by an SCI).

[0061] In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration can be enabled by a control message indicating a start time (e.g., in terms of time slots, the S-DRX configuration will be enabled starting from this start time). For example, the TX UE can indicate to the RX UE to enable the S-DRX configuration by sending a control message indicating a given time slot from which the RX UE should start enabling the S-DRX configuration. Additionally, the TX UE can indicate to the RX UE to enable the S-DRX configuration by sending a control message indicating the number of time slot offsets after which the RX UE should enable the S-DRX configuration.

[0062] In some scenarios, the UE can also enable the S-DRX configuration based on upcoming data traffic. For example, when the TX UE intends to send data packets belonging to a specific category, the S-DRX configuration can be enabled at the TX UE. Similarly, when the RX UE expects to receive data packets belonging to a specific category, the S-DRX configuration can be enabled at the RX UE.

[0063] Which of the above variants can be used to enable the S-DRX configuration can also be configurable, e.g., configured as part of the S-DRX configuration.

[0064] Disabling the S-DRX configuration can be achieved in various ways. In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration is disabled during the termination of the SL connection or the SL radio bearer. In some cases, the S-DRX configuration can be released autonomously by the RX UE and / or the TX UE. For example, if the SL unicast connection is terminated, the S-DRX configuration for that SL unicast connection can be disabled.

[0065] In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration can be disabled by a control message. For example, the TX UE can disable the S-DRX configuration at the RX UE by sending a control message to the RX UE. Additionally, the RX UE can disable the S-DRX configuration and notify the TX UE by sending a control message to the TX UE. In each case, the control message can be a dedicated PC5-RRC message, a MAC CE, or L1 signaling, such as a command carried by an SCI.

[0066] In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration can be disabled when a timer expires. For example, the timer can be reset each time the UE transmits or receives a data packet of a specific category. If no data packet of a specific category is transmitted or received within a certain period of time, the timer will expire, which disables the S-DRX configuration. This timer-based disabling of the S-DRX configuration can be applied at the TX UE and / or the RX UE. The setting of the timer for controlling the disabling of the S-DRX configuration can be common for multiple or all S-DRX configurations, or can be configured separately for each S-DRX configuration, e.g., configured as part of the S-DRX configuration.

[0067] In some scenarios, the UE can also enable the S-DRX configuration based on upcoming data traffic. For example, when the TX UE has no more data packets of a specific category to transmit, the S-DRX configuration can be disabled at the TX UE. At the RX UE, when the RX UE no longer expects to receive data packets of a specific category, the S-DRX configuration can be disabled.

[0068] Figure 4A A state diagram is shown for illustrating an example where the S-DRX configuration is enabled by receiving a data packet of a specific category and disabled in response to the expiration of a timer. If in Figure 4A the example the S-DRX configuration is in a disabled state, the S-DRX configuration is enabled when the UE receives a data packet of a specific category. The timer is reset each time the UE receives another packet of a specific category. When the timer expires, the S-DRX configuration is disabled. Figure 4A The process of the example can be applied at the RX UE and / or the TX UE. Further, note that the UE can be configured in such a way that receiving data packets that do not belong to a specific category has no effect on the state of the S-DRX configuration associated with that specific category.

[0069] Figure 4B A state diagram is shown for illustrating an example where the S-DRX configuration is enabled by transmitting a data packet of a specific category and disabled in response to the expiration of a timer. If in Figure 4B the example the S-DRX configuration is in a disabled state, the S-DRX configuration is enabled when the UE transmits a data packet of a specific category. The timer is reset each time the UE transmits another packet of a specific category. When the timer expires, the S-DRX configuration is disabled. Figure 4B The process of the example can be applied at the TX UE and / or the RX UE. Further, note that the UE can be configured in such a way that transmitting data packets that do not belong to a specific category has no effect on the state of the S-DRX configuration associated with that specific category.

[0070] As mentioned above, the use of one or more S-DRX configurations can also be combined with a common SL DRX configuration, which (also labeled as a C-DRX configuration in this document) is common to multiple or all categories of SL services. Thus, the C-DRX configuration can also apply to SL service categories different from any particular category under consideration. The C-DRX configuration defines DRX active state and DRX inactive state, corresponding respectively to the DRX active time and DRX inactive time mentioned above. For the C-DRX configuration, these states are also labeled as C-ACTIVE state (C-ACT) and C-INACTIVE state (C-INACT) in this document. In addition, the C-DRX configuration defines the transition between the C-ACTIVE and C-INACTIVE states.

[0071] The C-DRX configuration can be used for multiple purposes. For example, the C-DRX configuration can enable power-efficient reception of data packets, regardless of whether they belong to any particular category. For example, when the TX UE does not have enough information to determine which S-DRX configuration to use, the TX UE can use the C-DRX configuration to send data packets. In addition, the C-DRX configuration can be used to bootstrap the S-DRX configuration, i.e., to enable the exchange of information between the RX UE and the TX UE for establishing the S-DRX configuration. For example, two UEs can use the C-DRX configuration to establish a unicast SL connection and one or more associated S-DRX configurations. The C-DRX configuration can also be used to dynamically enable and / or disable the S-DRX configuration. For example, when the S-DRX configuration associated with a particular category of SL service is disabled, the transmission or reception of SL transmissions of data packets of that particular category can be achieved based on the C-DRX configuration. Figure 5A and 5B illustrates the corresponding example.

[0072] Figure 5A A state diagram is shown for illustrating an example in which the S-DRX configuration is enabled by receiving data packets of a particular category based on the C-DRX configuration and disabled in response to the expiration of a timer. If the S-DRX configuration is in a disabled state in the example of Figure 5A , the S-DRX configuration is enabled when the UE receives data packets of a particular category. The UE receives the packet data based on the C-DRX configuration. Thus, power efficiency can be improved before the S-DRX configuration is enabled. Each time the UE receives another packet of the particular category, the timer is reset. When the timer expires, the S-DRX configuration is disabled. Figure 5AThe procedures of the example can be applied at the RX UE and / or the TX UE. Additionally, note that the UE can be configured in such a way that the transmission of data packets that do not belong to a specific category has no impact on the state of the S-DRX configuration associated with that specific category.

[0073] Figure 5B Fig. shows a state diagram for illustrating an example where the S-DRX configuration is enabled by transmitting data packets of a specific category based on the C-DRX configuration and disabled in response to the expiration of a timer. If in Figure 5B the example the S-DRX configuration is in the disabled state, the S-DRX configuration is enabled when the UE transmits data packets of a specific category. The UE transmits the packetized data based on the C-DRX configuration. Thus, power efficiency can be improved even before the S-DRX configuration is enabled. Each time the UE transmits another packet of a specific category, the timer is reset. When the timer expires, the S-DRX configuration is disabled. Figure 5B The procedures of the example can be applied at the RX UE and / or the TX UE. Additionally, note that the UE can be configured in such a way that the reception of data packets that do not belong to a specific category has no impact on the state of the S-DRX configuration associated with that specific category.

[0074] The combination of the C-DRX configuration and one or more S-DRX configurations can provide several benefits. For example, the C-DRX configuration provides a fallback configuration that can be used, for example, after a connection failure. Additionally, the C-DRX configuration can be used to effectively bootstrap the S-DRX configuration. Furthermore, the C-DRX configuration can allow for long inactive periods during which the UE can enter a power saving mode, while the S-DRX configuration can be optimized for fast message exchange between UEs and be started only on demand.

[0075] When using multiple SL DRX configurations (e.g., one or more S-DRX configurations and the C-DRX configuration), the overall DRX active state and the overall DRX inactive state are obtained by considering the states of the individual SL DRX configurations in combination. For example, the overall DRX active time can correspond to the time of any individual SL DRX configuration in the DRX active time. Otherwise, the UE is in the overall DRX inactive time.

[0076] Figure 6 Fig. shows an example for illustrating the enabling of the S-DRX configuration based on the transmission or reception of SL transmissions of a specific category and the disabling of the S-DRX configuration based on a timer. In particular, Figure 6 Fig. shows the enabling and disabling of the S-DRX configuration, as well as the change of the states of the C-DRX configuration and the S-DRX configuration over time. In Figure 6In the example, the reception of a specific category of data packets associated with the S-DRX configuration is illustrated by a solid vertical arrow, while the reception of some other categories of data packets is illustrated by a dashed vertical arrow. As can be seen, the reception of a specific category of data packets enables the S-DRX configuration or keeps it enabled. The reception of some other categories of data packets does not enable or otherwise affect the enabling of the S-DRX configuration.

[0077] The TX UE can be configured with the following behaviors depending on the states of the C-DRX configuration and / or the S-DRX configuration:

[0078] - In some variants, the TX UE can send a specific category of data packets only during the DRX active time of the associated S-DRX configuration, especially when its own S-DRX configuration and / or the S-DRX configuration of the RX UE is in the S-ACTIVE state.

[0079] - In some variants, the TX UE can send N data packets of a specific category during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration, especially when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration of the RX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state. These N data packets can be used, for example, to enable the associated S-DRX configuration at the RX UE. In some cases, the number of N can be N = 1.

[0080] - In some variants, the TX UE can send a specific category of data packets during the DRX active time of the associated S-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of some other DRX configuration (e.g., the S-DRX configuration associated with another category), especially when its own S-DRX configuration and / or the S-DRX configuration of the RX UE is in the S-ACTIVE state, or when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration of the RX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state, or when some other DRX configuration at the TX UE and / or the RX UE is in the DRX active state.

[0081] - In some variants, if any DRX configuration of the TX UE is in the DRX active state, the TX UE can send a specific category of data packets, and the same applies to the S-DRX configuration associated with other categories other than the specific category.

[0082] - In some variants, during the DRX active time of the S-DRC configuration associated with a specific category, the transmission of data packets of that specific category is given a higher priority than the transmission of data packets of other categories.

[0083] - In some variants, the TX UE can send data packets of a specific category only during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of some other DRX configuration (e.g., the S-DRX configuration associated with another category), provided that the congestion level in the DRX active period is below a certain threshold.

[0084] - In some variants, if multiple DRX active times of different DRX configurations are available, the TX UE can select a DRX active period for sending data packets of a specific category. This selection can be made based on the congestion level in the considered DRX active time. For example, the TX UE can decide to send only if the congestion level in that DRX active time is below a certain threshold.

[0085] - In some variants, the TX UE can send data packets of a specific category that do not belong to any S-DRX configuration with an associated configuration only during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration, particularly when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration at the RX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state. For example, for the SL unicast transmission of data packets, the TX UE can send an SL-SRB message, e.g., a PC5-S or PC5-RRC message, only when the C-DRX configuration is in the C-ACTIVE state. According to another example, for the SL unicast packet transmission, the TX UE can send an independent SL CSI (Channel State Information) report, i.e., an SL transmission with a transport block that includes only the SL CSI report, only during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration, particularly when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration at the RX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state. According to another example, for the SL multicast transmission and SL broadcast transmission of data packets, the TX UE can send the data packets only during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration, particularly when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration at the RX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state.

[0086] - In some variants, the TX UE may send data packets that do not belong to a specific category during the DRX active time of an S-DRX configuration associated with a specific category or during the DRX active time of a C-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of some other DRX configuration (e.g., an S-DRX configuration associated with some other category), especially when its own S-DRX configuration associated with a specific category and / or the S-DRX configuration at the RX UE associated with a specific category is in the S-ACTIVE state, or when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration at the RX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state, or when another DRX configuration at the TX UE and / or the RX UE is in the DRX active state.

[0087] - In some variants, during connection establishment, a choice among at least some previous behaviors of the TX UE can be negotiated and agreed upon between the TX UE and the RX UE. Additionally, the choice among at least some previous behaviors of the TX UE can be configured by a node of the wireless communication network or can be part of a pre-configuration, e.g., based on standards, manufacturer settings, or network operator settings.

[0088] - In some variants, e.g., based on the configuration or pre-configuration of the TX UE, sending data packets of a specific category in the C-ACTIVE state or in the S-ACTIVE state of an S-DRX configuration associated with another category may or may not affect that C-ACTIVE state or S-ACTIVE state. For example, whether the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration or the DRX active time of the S-DRX configuration associated with another category should be extended in such a case can be configured or pre-configured in the UE, e.g., by starting or resetting a timer.

[0089] The RX UE can be configured with the following behaviors depending on the state of the C-DRX configuration and / or the S-DRX configuration:

[0090] - In some variants, it is expected that the RX UE processes (e.g., receives) data packets of a specific category only during the DRX active time of an S-DRX configuration associated with a specific category, especially when its own S-DRX configuration and / or the S-DRX configuration of the TX UE is in the S-ACTIVE state. Otherwise, it is expected that the RX UE does not process data packets of a specific category and can, for example, ignore or discard them.

[0091] - In some variants, it is expected that the RX UE processes (e.g., receives) data packets of a specific category during the DRX active time of the associated S-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of some other DRX configuration (e.g., an S-DRX configuration associated with another category), particularly when its own S-DRX configuration and / or the S-DRX configuration of the TX UE is in the S-ACTIVE state, or when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration of the TX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state, or when some other DRX configuration at the RX UE and / or the TX UE is in the DRX active state. Otherwise, it is expected that the RX UE does not process data packets of the specific category and can, for example, ignore or discard them.

[0092] - In some variants, it is expected that the RX UE processes (e.g., receives) data packets of a specific category that do not belong to any S-DRX configuration with an associated configuration only during the DRX active time of the C-DRX configuration, particularly only when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration at the TX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state. Otherwise, it is expected that the RX UE does not process these data packets and can, for example, ignore or discard them.

[0093] - In some variants, it is expected that the RX UE processes (e.g., receives) data packets that do not belong to a specific category during the DRX active time of the S-DRX configuration associated with the specific category or during the DRX active timer of the C-DRX configuration or during the DRX active time of some other DRX configuration (e.g., an S-DRX configuration associated with some other category), particularly when its own S-DRX configuration associated with the specific category and / or the S-DRX configuration of the TX UE associated with the specific category is in the S-ACTIVE state, or when its own C-DRX configuration and / or the C-DRX configuration of the TX UE is in the C-ACTIVE state, or when another DRX configuration at the TX UE and / or the TX UE is in the DRX active state. Otherwise, it is expected that the RX UE does not process these data packets and can, for example, ignore or discard them.

[0094] - In some variants, a choice among at least some of the previous behaviors of the RX UE can be negotiated and agreed upon between the TX UE and the RX UE during connection establishment. Additionally, the choice among at least some of the previous behaviors of the RX UE can be configured by a node of the wireless communication network or can be part of a pre-configuration, e.g., based on standards, manufacturer settings, or network operator settings.

[0095] - In some variants, for example, based on the configuration or pre - configuration of the RX UE, receiving data packets of a specific category in the C - ACTIVE state or in the S - ACTIVE state of an S - DRX configuration associated with another category may or may not affect that C - ACTIVE state or S - ACTIVE state. For example, whether the DRX active time of the C - DRX configuration or the DRX active time of the S - DRX configuration associated with another category should be extended in such a case can be configured or pre - configured in the UE, for example, by starting or resetting a timer.

[0096] In some scenarios, enabling the S - DRX configuration can avoid the impact of data packets of a specific category on the C - DRX configuration. For example, if the S - DRX configuration is disabled, the reception of data packets of a specific category can affect the DRX operation based on the C - DRX configuration, for example, by resetting a timer, triggering a state transition, etc. Further, if the S - DRX configuration associated with a specific category is enabled, receiving or sending data packets of that specific category will no longer affect the DRX process based on the C - DRX configuration. For example, it will not reset the timer or trigger a state transition for the C - DRX configuration. In other words, from the perspective of the DRX process based on the C - DRX configuration, it may seem as if no data packets have been received or sent.

[0097] In the following, the processes and mechanisms for providing DRX configurations to the UE will be described in more detail. These processes can be particularly used to provide the above - mentioned S - DRX configuration and / or C - DRX configuration.

[0098] In some scenarios, the UE can be provided with one or more DRX configurations. As mentioned above, such DRX configurations can be defined by parameters that control the DRX process, especially for the transition between the DRX active time and the DRX inactive time. These parameters can include, for example, the settings of one or more timers. Providing the DRX configuration to the UE can be based on configuration or pre - configuration, for example, based on standards, manufacturer settings, or network operator settings. The configuration or pre - configuration can be specific to a part of the UE or resource pool configuration, bandwidth part configuration, or carrier configuration.

[0099] In some scenarios, the DRX configuration can include one or more of the above - mentioned C - DRX configuration and / or the above - mentioned S - DRX configuration. The S - DRX configurations can each be part of the configuration of the corresponding SL radio bearer.

[0100] In some scenarios, the UE can randomly select a DRX configuration from multiple configured or pre - configured DRX configurations for communication with another UE.

[0101] In some scenarios, the UE can select among multiple configured or pre-configured DRX configurations, or otherwise determine the DRX configuration based on a congestion metric. For example, the UE can measure the congestion on resources corresponding to the DRX active time of each of the multiple configured or pre-configured DRX configurations, and select the DRX configuration with the lowest congestion metric value, or select the DRX configuration in which the congestion metric is below a threshold.

[0102] In some scenarios, the UE can notify other UEs about the DRX configuration it has selected. For example, the UE can indicate the index of the selected DRX configuration (e.g., as part of a control message) in a message sent to other UEs. This can be used to coordinate the enabling of a particular DRX configuration by multiple UEs, as described above.

[0103] In some scenarios, the UE can notify one or more other UEs about which DRX configuration will be used. In this case, any other DRX configurations configured but not used at the UE can be disabled. An indication of which DRX configuration will be used can be provided via L1 signaling, MAC CE, or RRC signaling. In some cases, the indication can be provided in the form of a bitmap, where each bit of the bitmap corresponds to one of the multiple DRX configurations being enabled or disabled. Additionally, the indication can include one or more identifiers of the DRX configurations, where each identifier indicates whether a particular DRX configuration is enabled or disabled. Such an identifier can be defined as part of the DRX configuration, for example.

[0104] In some scenarios, the UE can also consider the DRX configurations used by other UEs when selecting or otherwise determining its own DRX configuration. For example, the UE can avoid selecting the same DRX configuration that is currently or has ever been used by other UEs for SL communication that does not involve the UE.

[0105] In some scenarios, a particular category of SL communication can determine the DRX configuration to be used by the UE. For example, an identifier or index can be associated with each category of SL communication or a particular category of data packets transmitted by the SL communication, and can be used to select a DRX configuration among multiple configured or pre-configured DRX configurations (for a particular category of SL communication, data packets). By way of example, the UE can be provided with N DRX configurations indexed by {0, 1,..., N - 1}. Each particular category of SL communication or particular category of data packets can have an identifier or index. Further, the UE can select, for a particular category with index P, the DRX configuration with the index given by P modulo N.

[0106] In some scenarios, the C-DRX configuration can be part of a configuration provided by a network node or part of a pre-configuration. The C-DRC configuration can always be enabled. In contrast, each S-DRX configuration can be enabled on demand, e.g., when the UE is engaged in a specific category of SL communication, e.g., in category-specific unicast communication, category-specific multicast communication, or category-specific broadcast communication. The S-DRX configuration can be configured by a network node based on a pre-configuration, or it can be negotiated or otherwise agreed upon among UEs engaged in SL communication.

[0107] In some scenarios, the C-DRX configuration can be shared by UEs configured to operate using a certain carrier, a certain resource pool, or a certain bandwidth part, or any combination of a certain carrier, a certain resource pool, and a certain bandwidth part.

[0108] In some scenarios, the S-DRX configuration associated with a specific category can be shared by UEs interested in data packets of that specific category (e.g., expecting to send or transmit data packets of that specific category). For example, such interest can be determined based on a specific service using the category-specific data packets by the UE, or based on the location of the UE, e.g., depending on whether the UE is in a specific geographical area.

[0109] In some scenarios, C-DRX can be used by a pair of UEs or multiple UEs to configure (e.g., select, align, or enable) their S-DRX configurations, e.g., to coordinate the S-DRX configurations used. This can, for example, involve using the C-DRX configuration to notify other UEs of the S-DRX configuration used or changes to the S-DRX configuration used. As mentioned above, the C-DRX configuration can also be used by two or more UEs to coordinate the enabling and / or disabling of a certain S-DRX configuration, e.g., by notifying other UEs about the enabling or disabling of the S-DRX configuration.

[0110] Note that the principles of using multiple SL DRX configurations and / or one or more category-specific SL DRX configurations as described above are not limited to SL communication, but can also be applied to other types of D2D communication.

[0111] Figure 7 A flowchart is shown for illustrating a method that can be used to implement the illustrated concepts. Figure 7 The method can be used to implement the illustrated concepts in a wireless communication device (corresponding to any of the UEs mentioned above). In some scenarios, the wireless communication device can be a vehicle or an in-vehicle device, but other types of WDs as mentioned above can also be used.

[0112] If a processor-based implementation of the wireless communication device is used, thenFigure 7 At least some steps of the method may be performed and / or controlled by one or more processors of the wireless communication device. Such a wireless communication device may also include a memory storing program code for implementing the functions or steps of at least some of the Figure 7 method described below.

[0113] At step 710, the wireless communication device may receive and / or transmit configuration information. For example, the wireless communication device may receive configuration information from one or more other wireless communication devices. Additionally, the wireless communication device may transmit configuration information to one or more other wireless communication devices. Additionally, the wireless communication device may receive configuration information from one or more nodes of the wireless communication network (such as the access node 100 mentioned above). Additionally, the wireless communication device may transmit configuration information to one or more nodes of the wireless communication network (such as the access node 100 mentioned above).

[0114] At step 720, the wireless communication device simultaneously maintains a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. The first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration each serve the purpose of D2D communication between the wireless communication device and one or more other wireless communication devices. The D2D communication may correspond to SL communication, for example, via the PC5 interface of LTE technology or the PC5 interface of NR technology. Thus, the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration may correspond to SL DRX configurations. The first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration may each be based on one or more timers for controlling the transition between the corresponding DRX active time and the corresponding DRX inactive time.

[0115] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one of one or more other wireless communication devices (e.g., as received at step 710).

[0116] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from a node of the wireless communication network (e.g., as received at step 710).

[0117] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on the congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication (e.g., by using a congestion metric as a basis for selecting among multiple predefined DRX configurations).

[0118] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may determine at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on the DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices. Information about such a DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices may be indicated by the configuration information received, for example, at step 710.

[0119] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may determine at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on a selection among a plurality of predefined DRX configurations. The selection among the plurality of predefined DRX configurations may be at least partially based on a random selection.

[0120] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may determine configuration information for at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration and indicate the determined configuration information to at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0121] In some scenarios, the first DRX configuration may be applicable to a plurality of D2D communication categories, while the second DRX configuration may be applicable only to a specific D2D communication category. The plurality of D2D communication categories may or may not include the specific D2D communication category. The C-DRX configuration mentioned above is an example of the first DRX configuration. The S-DRC configuration mentioned above is an example of the second DRX configuration. The D2D communication category may, for example, correspond to the SL communication category mentioned above or the category of data packets transmitted by SL transmission.

[0122] The D2D communication category may be defined based on the identifier (e.g., L1 identifier or L2 identifier) of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication and / or the address (e.g., L1 address or L2 address) of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on the identifier of the D2D communication link used in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on one or more service types using the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on the location of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on one or more service quality attributes used in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, the D2D communication category may be defined based on the data traffic characteristics of the D2D communication (e.g., considering the period or other patterns of data packet arrival).

[0123] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and multiple second DRX configurations for D2D communication, where the second DRX configurations are each applicable to different specific D2D communication categories. For example, the wireless communication device may simultaneously maintain the above-mentioned C-DRC configuration and multiple above-mentioned S-DRX configurations.

[0124] At step 730, the wireless communication device may select whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration. The selection at step 730 may be at least partially based on D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices. Alternatively or additionally, the selection at step 730 may be at least partially based on the congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication, e.g., based on a congestion metric. Alternatively or additionally, the selection at step 730 may be at least partially based on random selection. Alternatively or additionally, the selection at step 730 may be at least partially based on information received from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices, e.g., based on the configuration information received at step 710. Alternatively or additionally, the selection at step 730 may be at least partially based on information received from a node of the wireless communication network, e.g., based on the configuration information received at step 710.

[0125] In some scenarios, the wireless communication device may indicate at least one of the selected first DRX configuration and / or second DRX configuration to at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices, e.g., by means of the configuration information sent at step 710.

[0126] As mentioned above, in some scenarios, the first DRX configuration is applicable to multiple D2D communication categories, while the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category. In some cases, the multiple D2D communication categories may include the specific D2D communication category.

[0127] In this case, step 730 may involve the wireless communication device enabling the second DRX configuration in response to a first D2D transmission. The first D2D transmission may belong to a specific D2D communication category. Alternatively or additionally, the first D2D transmission may include a command to enable the second DRX configuration. For example, the first D2D transmission may transmit a corresponding control message or corresponding control signaling. In some cases, in response to enabling the second DRX configuration, the wireless communication device may start a timer for controlling the enabling of the second DRX configuration.

[0128] In addition, step 730 may involve the wireless communication device disabling the second DRX configuration in response to a second D2D transmission. The second D2D transmission may include a command to disable the second DRX configuration. For example, the second D2D transmission may convey a corresponding control message or corresponding control signaling. In some cases, the wireless communication device may disable the second DRX configuration in response to the expiration of a timer. As mentioned above, the wireless communication device may start a timer in response to enabling the second DRX configuration. In addition, the wireless communication device may reset the timer in response to a D2D transmission of a specific D2D communication category. In some cases, the wireless communication device may also disable the second DRX configuration in response to releasing a D2D communication link used in a specific category of D2D communication. In some cases, the wireless communication device may also disable the second DRX configuration in response to the stop of a specific category of D2D communication.

[0129] At step 740, the wireless communication device participates in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices. This is achieved based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration. Participating in D2D communication may involve the wireless communication device receiving at least one D2D transmission from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices during the DRX active time. Thus, the wireless communication device may correspond to an RX UE and operate as described above, for example. In addition, participating in D2D communication may involve the wireless communication device sending at least one D2D transmission to at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices during the DRX active time. Thus, the wireless communication device may correspond to a TX UE and operate as described above, for example.

[0130] In some scenarios, step 740 may involve the wireless communication device's handling of one or more D2D transmissions depending on the first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX active time triggered by the second DRX configuration associated with a specific D2D communication category. This handling may be related to the transmission of D2D transmissions or the reception of D2D transmissions. In some cases, the wireless communication device may handle D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time or the second DRX active time. In some cases, the wireless communication device may handle D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category only during the second DRX active time. In some cases, the wireless communication device may handle only a limited number of D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time. In some cases, the wireless communication device may decide whether to handle D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time based on the congestion level in the first DRX active time. In some cases, the wireless communication device may decide whether to handle D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time based on the congestion level in the second DRX active time. In some cases, during the second DRX active time, the wireless communication device may handle D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category that have a higher priority than D2D transmissions of another D2D communication category.

[0131] Figure 8 illustrates a block diagram of the functionality of a wireless communication device 900 for diagramming method operations in accordance with Figure 7 The wireless communication device 800 may correspond, for example, to any of the UEs mentioned above. As shown, the wireless communication device 800 may be provided with a module 810 configured to receive and / or transmit configuration information (such as that illustrated in connection with step 710). Additionally, the wireless communication device 800 may be provided with a module 820 configured to simultaneously maintain multiple DRX configurations (such as that illustrated in connection with step 720). Additionally, the wireless communication device 800 may optionally be provided with a module 830 configured to select whether to enable and / or disable at least one of the DRX configurations (such as that illustrated in connection with step 730). Additionally, the wireless communication device 800 may be provided with a module 840 configured to participate in D2D communication (such as that illustrated in connection with step 740).

[0132] Note that the wireless communication device 800 may include other modules for implementing other functions (such as known functions of a UE in LTE and / or NR radio technologies). Additionally, note that the modules of the wireless communication device 800 do not necessarily represent the hardware structure of the wireless communication device 800, but may also correspond to functional elements (e.g., implemented by hardware, software, or a combination thereof).

[0133] Figure 9 A flowchart is shown for illustrating a method that can be used to implement the illustrated concepts. Figure 9 The method can be used to implement the illustrated concepts in a node of a wireless communication network (e.g., corresponding to the access node 100 mentioned above).

[0134] If a processor-based implementation of the node is used, Figure 9 at least some steps of the method can be performed and / or controlled by one or more processors of the node. Such a node may also include a memory storing program code for implementing the functions or steps of at least some of the Figure 9 methods described below.

[0135] At step 910, the node may receive and / or transmit configuration information. For example, the node may receive configuration information from one or more wireless communication devices. In addition, the node may transmit configuration information to one or more wireless communication devices. In addition, the node may receive configuration information from one or more other nodes of the wireless communication network (such as another access node or control node). In addition, the node may transmit configuration information to one or more other nodes of the wireless communication network (such as another access node or control node).

[0136] At step 920, the node may determine one or more DRX configurations for D2D communication. Each of these DRX configurations is for the purpose of D2D communication between a wireless communication device and one or more other wireless communication devices. Specifically, the node may determine a first DRX configuration for D2D communication between a wireless communication device and one or more other wireless communication devices and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication between a wireless communication device and one or more other wireless communication devices. The D2D communication may correspond to SL communication, for example, via the PC5 interface of LTE technology or the PC5 interface of NR technology. Thus, the DRX configuration may correspond to an SL DRX configuration. These DRX configurations may each be based on one or more timers for controlling the transition between the corresponding DRX active time and the corresponding DRX inactive time.

[0137] In some scenarios, the node may determine at least one of these DRX configurations based on configuration information received from one or more wireless communication devices (e.g., as received in step 910).

[0138] In some scenarios, the node may determine at least one of these DRX configurations based on configuration information received from another node of the wireless communication network (e.g., as received in step 910).

[0139] In some scenarios, the node may determine at least one of these DRX configurations based on congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication (e.g., by using a congestion metric as a basis for selection among multiple predefined DRX configurations).

[0140] In some scenarios, the node may determine at least one of these DRX configurations based on the DRX configurations used by other wireless communication devices. Information about such DRX configurations used by other wireless communication devices may be indicated by configuration information received as in step 910.

[0141] In some scenarios, the node may determine at least one of these DRX configurations based on a selection among multiple predefined DRX configurations. The selection among the multiple predefined DRX configurations may be at least partially based on a random selection.

[0142] In some scenarios, the node may determine configuration information for the determined DRX configuration and indicate the determined configuration information to the wireless communication device.

[0143] In some scenarios, the DRX configuration determined at step 920 may include a first DRX configuration applicable to multiple D2D communication categories and a second DRX configuration applicable to a specific D2D communication category. The multiple D2D communication categories may or may not include the specific D2D communication category. The C-DRX configuration mentioned above is an example of the first DRX configuration. The S-DRC configuration mentioned above is an example of the second DRX configuration. The D2D communication category may, for example, correspond to the SL communication category mentioned above or the category of data packets transmitted by SL transmissions.

[0144] A D2D communication category may be defined based on an identifier (e.g., an L1 identifier or an L2 identifier) of a wireless communication device participating in D2D communication and / or an address (e.g., an L1 address or an L2 address) of the wireless communication device participating in D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on an identifier of a D2D communication link used in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on one or more service types using the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on the location of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on one or more quality of service attributes used in the D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on data traffic characteristics of the D2D communication (e.g., considering the period or other patterns of data packet arrivals).

[0145] At step 930, the node configures the wireless communication device to maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication simultaneously. The first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration each have a purpose for D2D communication between the wireless communication device and one or more other wireless communication devices. The D2D communication may, for example, correspond to SL communication, e.g., via the PC5 interface of LTE technology or the PC5 interface of NR technology. Thus, the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration may correspond to SL DRX configurations. The first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration may each be based on one or more timers for controlling the transition between the corresponding DRX active time and the corresponding DRX inactive time. The first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration may correspond to the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration that may have been determined at step 920.

[0146] The first DRX configuration may be applicable to multiple D2D communication categories and the second DRX configuration may be applicable to a specific D2D communication category. The multiple D2D communication categories may or may not include the specific D2D communication category. The C-DRX configuration mentioned above is an example of the first DRX configuration. The S-DRC configuration mentioned above is an example of the second DRX configuration. The D2D communication category may, for example, correspond to the SL communication category mentioned above or the category of data packets transmitted by the SL transmission.

[0147] A D2D communication category may be defined based on an identifier (e.g., an L1 identifier or an L2 identifier) of a wireless communication device participating in D2D communication and / or an address (e.g., an L1 address or an L2 address) of the wireless communication device participating in D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on an identifier of a D2D communication link used in D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on one or more service types using D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on the location of the wireless communication device participating in D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on one or more quality of service attributes used in D2D communication. Alternatively or additionally, a D2D communication category may be defined based on data traffic characteristics of D2D communication (e.g., considering the period or other patterns of data packet arrivals).

[0148] Furthermore, the node may configure the wireless communication device for selecting whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration. The node may configure the wireless communication device to perform the selection at least partially based on D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices. Alternatively or additionally, the node may configure the wireless communication device to perform the selection at least partially based on congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication (e.g., based on a congestion metric). Alternatively or additionally, the node may configure the wireless communication device to perform the selection at least partially based on random selection. Alternatively or additionally, the node may configure the wireless communication device to perform the selection at least partially based on information received from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices. Alternatively or additionally, the node may configure the wireless communication device to perform the selection at least partially based on information received from a node of the wireless communication network.

[0149] As mentioned above, in some scenarios, the first DRX configuration applies to multiple D2D communication categories, while the second DRX configuration applies to a specific D2D communication category. In some cases, the multiple D2D communication categories may include the specific D2D communication category.

[0150] In some scenarios, the node may configure the wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and multiple second DRX configurations for D2D communication, where the second DRX configurations are each applicable to different specific D2D communication categories. For example, the wireless communication device may simultaneously maintain the above-mentioned C-DRC configuration and multiple above-mentioned S-DRX configurations.

[0151] In such a case, the node may configure the wireless communication device to enable the second DRX configuration. The first D2D transmission may belong to a specific D2D communication category. Alternatively or additionally, the first D2D transmission may include a command to enable the second DRX configuration. For example, the first D2D transmission may convey a corresponding control message or corresponding control signaling. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to start a timer for controlling the enabling of the second DRX configuration in response to enabling the second DRX configuration.

[0152] Furthermore, the node may configure the wireless communication device to disable the second DRX configuration in response to a second D2D transmission. The second D2D transmission may include a command to disable the second DRX configuration. For example, the second D2D transmission may convey a corresponding control message or corresponding control signaling. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to disable the second DRX configuration in response to the expiration of the timer. As mentioned above, the wireless communication device may be configured to start the timer in response to enabling the second DRX configuration. In addition, the node may configure the wireless communication device to reset the timer in response to a D2D transmission of a specific D2D communication category. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to disable the second DRX configuration in response to releasing a D2D communication link used in a specific category of D2D communication. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to disable the second DRX configuration in response to the stop of a specific category of D2D communication.

[0153] In some scenarios, a node may configure a wireless communication device for the following operations: the processing of one or more D2D transmissions by the wireless communication device depends on a first DRX active time triggered by a first DRX configuration and / or a second DRX active time triggered by a second DRX configuration associated with a specific D2D communication category. This processing may be related to the transmission of D2D transmissions or the reception of D2D transmissions. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time or the second DRX active time. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category only during the second DRX active time. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to process only a limited number of D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to decide whether to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to the congestion level in the first DRX active time. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to decide whether to process D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to the congestion level in the second DRX active time. In some cases, the node may configure the wireless communication device to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category with a higher priority than D2D transmissions of another D2D communication category during the second DRX active time.

[0154] Figure 10 illustrates a block diagram of the functionality of a node 1000 of a wireless communication network for graphically depicting the method operations in accordance with Figure 9 Node 1000 may correspond, for example, to any of the access nodes mentioned above. As shown, node 1000 may be provided with a module 1010, which is configured to receive configuration information (such as that illustrated in connection with step 910). In addition, node 1000 may be provided with a module 1020, which is configured to determine a DRX configuration for D2D communication (such as that illustrated in connection with step 920). In addition, node 1000 may be provided with a module 930, which is configured to configure the wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain multiple DRX configurations for D2D communication (such as that illustrated in connection with step 930).

[0155] Note that node 1000 may include other modules for implementing other functions (such as the known functions of an eNB in LTE technology and / or a gNB in NR technology). In addition, note that the modules of node 1000 do not necessarily represent the hardware structure of node 1000, but may also correspond to functional elements (e.g., implemented by hardware, software, or a combination thereof).

[0156] It should be understood that, as combined with Figures 7 to 10 the functions described can also be combined in various ways, for example, in a system including two or other wireless communication devices operating according to the Figure 7 method, or in a system including one or more wireless communication devices operating according to the Figure 7 method and a node operating according to the Figure 9 method. In addition, the same wireless communication device can implement the functions corresponding to the RX UE and the functions corresponding to the TX UE.

[0157] Figure 11 An example of a processor-based implementation of the wireless communication device 1100 that can be used to implement the above concepts is illustrated. For example, the structure shown in Figure 11 can be used to implement these concepts in any of the above-mentioned UEs.

[0158] As shown in the figure, the wireless communication device 1100 includes one or more radio interfaces 1110. The radio interface 1110 can be, for example, based on NR technology or LTE technology. The radio interface 1110 can support D2D communication, for example, using SL communication specified for NR technology or LTE technology.

[0159] In addition, the wireless communication device 1100 can include one or more processors 1150 coupled to the radio interface 1110 and a memory 1160 coupled to the processor 1150. For example, the radio interface 1110, the processor 1150, and the memory 1160 can be coupled through one or more internal bus systems of the wireless communication device 1100. The memory 1160 can include a read-only memory (ROM) (e.g., flash ROM), a random access memory (RAM) (e.g., dynamic RAM (DRAM) or static RAM (SRAM)), a mass storage device (e.g., hard disk or solid-state disk), etc. As shown in the figure, the memory 1160 can include software 1170 and / or firmware 1180. The memory 1160 can include appropriately configured program code to be executed by the processor 1150 to implement the above functions for controlling D2D communication (such as those illustrated in combination with Figure 7 or Figure 8 ).

[0160] It should be understood that Figure 11The structure shown is merely illustrative, and the wireless communication device 1100 may actually include other components (not shown for clarity, e.g., other interfaces such as a dedicated management interface, or other processors). In addition, it should be understood that the memory 1160 may include other program code for implementing known functions of the UE. According to some embodiments, a computer program may also be provided to implement the functions of the wireless communication device 1100, e.g., in the form of a physical medium storing the program code and / or other data to be stored in the memory 1160, or by making the program code available for download or streaming.

[0161] Figure 12 Illustrated is a processor-based implementation of a node 1200 for a wireless communication network that can be used to implement the above concepts. For example, the structure shown as Figure 12 can be used to implement these concepts in any of the above-mentioned access nodes.

[0162] As shown, the node 1200 may include one or more radio interfaces 1210. The radio interface 1210 may be, for example, based on NR technology or LTE technology. The radio interface 1210 can be used to control wireless communication devices, such as any of the UEs mentioned above. In addition, the node 1200 may include one or more network interfaces 1220. The network interface 1220 can be used, for example, to communicate with one or more other nodes of the wireless communication network. The network interface 1220 can also be used to control wireless communication devices, such as any of the UEs mentioned above.

[0163] Furthermore, the node 1200 may include one or more processors 1250 coupled to the interfaces 1210, 1220 and a memory 1260 coupled to the processor 1250. By way of example, the interfaces 1210, the processor 1250, and the memory 1260 may be coupled via one or more internal bus systems of the node 1200. The memory 1260 may include ROM (e.g., flash ROM), RAM (e.g., DRAM or SRAM), mass storage devices (e.g., hard disk or solid state disk), etc. As shown, the memory 1960 may include software 1270 and / or firmware 1280. The memory 1260 may include program code suitably configured to be executed by the processor 1250 to implement the above functions for controlling D2D communication (such as as described in conjunction with Figure 9 and Figure 10 .

[0164] It should be understood that Figure 12The structure shown is merely illustrative, and the wireless communication device 1200 may actually include other components (not shown for clarity, e.g., other interfaces such as a dedicated management interface, or other processors). Further, it should be understood that the memory 1260 may include other program code for implementing known functions of an eNB or gNB. According to some embodiments, a computer program may also be provided to implement the functions of the node 1200, e.g., in the form of a physical medium storing the program code and / or other data to be stored in the memory 1260, or by making the program code available for download or over-the-air transmission.

[0165] As can be seen, the concepts described above can be used to perform D2D communication in an energy-efficient manner. Specifically, these concepts can be used to apply DRX to SL or other types of D2D communication without any hierarchy of the devices involved. Further, these concepts can be used to enable DRX for D2D communication not only in unicast mode, but also in multicast mode, or broadcast mode, or any combination of unicast mode, multicast mode, and broadcast mode. Additionally, different SL DRX configurations can be provided according to the needs of each UE.

[0166] It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described above are merely illustrative and can be easily modified in various ways. For example, the concepts described can be applied in combination with various radio technologies (e.g., in combination with WLAN technology or other wireless ad-hoc network technologies) and D2D communication applications, and are not limited to the SL mode of NR technology or LTE technology. Further, these concepts can be applied to various types of UEs and are not limited to vehicle-based UEs. Additionally, these concepts can be applied in combination with various services supported by D2D communication and are not limited to V2X, NSPS, or NCIS. Also, aspects of the concepts described related to the determination and provision of DRX configurations for D2D communication can be used independently of aspects related to the simultaneous configuration of multiple DRX configurations for D2D communication. Further, note that in some scenarios, one or more category-specific DRX configurations can be used independently of the general DRX configuration. For example, a UE may be configured with one or more S-DRX configurations but not configured with a C-DRX configuration. Additionally, it should be understood that the concepts described above can be implemented by using software designed accordingly (to be executed by one or more processors of an existing device or apparatus), or by using dedicated device hardware. Additionally, it should be noted that each of the devices or apparatuses shown can be implemented as a single device or as a system of multiple interacting devices or modules.

[0167] Accordingly, the embodiments provided by the present disclosure include:

[0168] Embodiment 1:

[0169] A method for controlling device - to - device (D2D) communication, the method comprising:

[0170] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) simultaneously maintains a first discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication; and

[0171] Based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration, the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) participates in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0172] Embodiment 2:

[0173] The method according to Embodiment 1, comprising:

[0174] The wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) selects whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration.

[0175] Embodiment 3:

[0176] The method according to Embodiment 2,

[0177] wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0178] Embodiment 4:

[0179] The method according to Embodiment 2 or 3,

[0180] wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on the congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication.

[0181] Embodiment 5:

[0182] The method according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 4,

[0183] wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on random selection.

[0184] Embodiment 6:

[0185] The method according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 5,

[0186] wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on information received from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0187] Example 7:

[0188] A method according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 6,

[0189] wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on information received from a node (100; 1000; 1200) of a wireless communication network.

[0190] Example 8:

[0191] A method according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 7, comprising:

[0192] a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) indicating at least one selected from the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration to at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0193] Example 9:

[0194] A method according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 8,

[0195] wherein the first DRX configuration is applicable to a plurality of D2D communication categories, and the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category.

[0196] Example 10:

[0197] A method according to Example 9,

[0198] wherein the plurality of D2D communication categories includes the specific D2D communication category.

[0199] Example 11:

[0200] A method according to Example 9 or 10, comprising:

[0201] in response to a first D2D transmission, a wireless communication device enables the second DRX configuration.

[0202] Example 12:

[0203] A method according to Example 11,

[0204] wherein the first D2D transmission belongs to the specific D2D communication category.

[0205] Example 13:

[0206] A method according to Example 11 or 12,

[0207] wherein the first D2D transmission includes a command to enable the second DRX configuration.

[0208] Example 14:

[0209] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 13, comprising:

[0210] In response to enabling a second DRX configuration, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) starts a timer for controlling the enabling of the second DRX configuration.

[0211] Example 15:

[0212] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 14, comprising:

[0213] In response to a second D2D transmission, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) disables the second DRX configuration.

[0214] Example 16:

[0215] The method according to Example 15,

[0216] wherein the second D2D transmission includes a command to disable the second DRX configuration.

[0217] Example 17:

[0218] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 16, comprising:

[0219] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) disables the second DRX configuration in response to the expiration of the timer.

[0220] Example 18:

[0221] The method according to Example 17, comprising:

[0222] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) starts a timer in response to enabling the second DRX configuration.

[0223] Example 19:

[0224] The method according to Example 17 or 18, comprising:

[0225] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) resets the timer in response to a D2D transmission of a specific D2D communication category.

[0226] Example 20:

[0227] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 19, comprising:

[0228] In response to the release of a D2D communication link used in a specific category of D2D communication, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) disables a second DRX configuration.

[0229] Example 21:

[0230] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 20, includes:

[0231] In response to the stop of a specific category of D2D communication, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) disables a second DRX configuration.

[0232] Example 22:

[0233] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 21,

[0234] wherein a D2D communication category is defined based on an identifier of a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) participating in D2D communication and / or an address of the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) participating in D2D communication.

[0235] Example 23:

[0236] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 22,

[0237] wherein a D2D communication category is defined based on an identifier of a D2D communication link used in D2D communication.

[0238] Example 24:

[0239] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 23,

[0240] wherein a D2D communication category is defined based on whether D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode.

[0241] Example 25:

[0242] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 24,

[0243] wherein a D2D communication category is defined based on whether D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode.

[0244] Example 26:

[0245] The method according to any one of Examples 9 to 25,

[0246] wherein a D2D communication category is defined based on whether D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode.

[0247] Example 27:

[0248] The method according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 26,

[0249] wherein, based on one or more service types using D2D communication, a D2D communication category is defined.

[0250] Embodiment 28:

[0251] The method according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 27,

[0252] wherein, based on the location of the wireless communication device participating in D2D communication, a D2D communication category is defined.

[0253] Embodiment 29:

[0254] The method according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 28,

[0255] wherein, based on one or more quality of service attributes used in D2D communication, a D2D communication category is defined.

[0256] Embodiment 30:

[0257] The method according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 29,

[0258] wherein, based on the data traffic characteristics of D2D communication, a D2D communication category is defined.

[0259] Embodiment 31:

[0260] The method according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 30, comprising:

[0261] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) simultaneously maintains a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a plurality of second DRX configurations for D2D communication,

[0262] wherein these second DRX configurations are each applicable to different specific D2D communication categories.

[0263] Embodiment 32:

[0264] The method according to any one of Embodiments 9 to 31,

[0265] wherein the processing of one or more D2D transmissions by the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) depends on a first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or a second DRX active time triggered by a second DRX configuration associated with a specific D2D communication category.

[0266] Embodiment 33:

[0267] The method according to Embodiment 32, comprising:

[0268] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) processes D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during a first DRX active time or a second DRX active time.

[0269] Example 34:

[0270] The method according to Example 32, comprising:

[0271] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) processes D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category only during the second DRX active time.

[0272] Example 35:

[0273] The method according to Example 32 or 33, comprising:

[0274] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) processes a limited number of D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category only during the first DRX active time.

[0275] Example 36:

[0276] The method according to Example 32 or 33 or 35, comprising:

[0277] According to the congestion level in the first DRX active time, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) decides whether to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category in the first DRX active time.

[0278] Example 37:

[0279] The method according to any one of Examples 32 to 36, comprising:

[0280] According to the congestion level in the second DRX active time, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) decides whether to process D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from a specific D2D communication category in the first DRX active time.

[0281] Example 38:

[0282] The method according to any one of Examples 32 to 37, comprising:

[0283] During the second DRX active time, a wireless communication device processes D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category whose priority is higher than that of D2D transmissions of another D2D communication category.

[0284] Example 38:

[0285] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 37,

[0286] Wherein, the participating in D2D communication includes:

[0287] During a DRX active time period, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) receives at least one D2D transmission from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0288] Example 39:

[0289] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 38,

[0290] Wherein, the participating in D2D communication includes:

[0291] During a DRX active time period, a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) transmits at least one D2D transmission to at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0292] Example 40:

[0293] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 39, includes:

[0294] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0295] Example 41:

[0296] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 40, includes:

[0297] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from a node (100; 1000; 1200) of a wireless communication network.

[0298] Example 42:

[0299] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 41, includes:

[0300] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication.

[0301] Example 43:

[0302] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 42, includes:

[0303] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on a DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0304] Example 44:

[0305] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 43, comprising:

[0306] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on a selection among a plurality of predefined DRX configurations.

[0307] Example 45:

[0308] The method according to Example 44,

[0309] wherein the selection among the plurality of predefined DRX configurations is at least partially based on a random selection.

[0310] Example 46:

[0311] The method according to any one of Examples 1 to 45, comprising:

[0312] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) determines configuration information for at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration; and

[0313] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) indicates the determined configuration information to at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0314] Example 47:

[0315] A method for controlling D2D communication in a wireless communication network, the method comprising:

[0316] A node (100; 1000; 1200) of a wireless communication network configures a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to simultaneously maintain a first discontinuous reception DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100) and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0317] Example 48:

[0318] The method according to Example 47,

[0319] Among them, the first DRX configuration is applicable to multiple D2D communication categories, and the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category.

[0320] Example 49:

[0321] According to the method described in Example 48,

[0322] Among them, the multiple D2D communication categories include the specific D2D communication category.

[0323] Example 50:

[0324] According to the method described in Example 48 or 49, including:

[0325] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to enable the second DRX configuration in response to a first D2D transmission.

[0326] Example 51:

[0327] According to the method described in Example 50,

[0328] Among them, the first D2D transmission belongs to the specific D2D communication category.

[0329] Example 52:

[0330] According to the method described in Example 50 or 51,

[0331] Among them, the first D2D transmission includes a command to enable the second DRX configuration.

[0332] Example 53:

[0333] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 52, including:

[0334] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to start a timer for controlling the enabling of the second DRX configuration in response to the enabling of the second DRX configuration.

[0335] Example 54:

[0336] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 53, including:

[0337] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to disable the second DRX configuration in response to a second D2D transmission.

[0338] Example 55:

[0339] According to the method described in Example 54,

[0340] Among them, the second D2D transmission includes a command to disable the second DRX configuration.

[0341] Example 56:

[0342] The method according to any one of Examples 48 to 55, includes:

[0343] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to disable the second DRX configuration in response to the expiration of a timer.

[0344] Example 57:

[0345] The method according to Example 56, includes:

[0346] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to start a timer in response to enabling the second DRX configuration.

[0347] Example 58:

[0348] The method according to Example 56 or 57, includes:

[0349] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to reset the timer in response to a D2D transmission of a specific D2D communication category.

[0350] Example 59:

[0351] The method according to any one of Examples 48 to 58, includes:

[0352] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to disable the second DRX configuration in response to releasing a D2D communication link used in a specific category of D2D communication.

[0353] Example 60:

[0354] The method according to any one of Examples 48 to 59, includes:

[0355] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to disable the second DRX configuration in response to the stop of a specific category of D2D communication.

[0356] Example 61:

[0357] The method according to any one of Examples 48 to 60,

[0358] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on the identifier of the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) participating in the D2D communication and / or the address of the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) participating in the D2D communication.

[0359] Example 62:

[0360] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 61,

[0361] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on the identifier of the D2D communication link used in the D2D communication.

[0362] Example 63:

[0363] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 62,

[0364] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode.

[0365] Example 64:

[0366] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 63,

[0367] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode.

[0368] Example 65:

[0369] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 64,

[0370] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode.

[0371] Example 66:

[0372] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 65,

[0373] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on one or more service types using the D2D communication.

[0374] Example 67:

[0375] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 66,

[0376] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on the location of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication.

[0377] Example 68:

[0378] According to the method described in any one of Examples 48 to 67,

[0379] Among them, a D2D communication category is defined based on one or more quality of service attributes used in D2D communication.

[0380] Example 69:

[0381] According to the method described in any one of Embodiments 48 to 68,

[0382] wherein, a D2D communication category is defined based on the data service characteristics of D2D communication.

[0383] Example 70:

[0384] The method according to any one of Embodiments 48 to 69 includes:

[0385] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to simultaneously maintain a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a plurality of second DRX configurations for D2D communication,

[0386] wherein each of these second DRX configurations is applicable to a different specific D2D communication category.

[0387] Example 71:

[0388] According to the method described in any one of Embodiments 48 to 70,

[0389] wherein the processing of one or more D2D transmissions by the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) depends on the first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX active time triggered by the second DRX configuration associated with a specific D2D communication category.

[0390] Example 72:

[0391] The method according to Embodiment 71 includes:

[0392] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time or the second DRX active time.

[0393] Example 73:

[0394] The method according to Embodiment 71 includes:

[0395] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category only during the second DRX active time.

[0396] Example 74:

[0397] The method according to Example 71 or 72, comprising:

[0398] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to process only a limited number of D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during a first DRX active time.

[0399] Example 75:

[0400] The method according to Example 71 or 72 or 74, comprising:

[0401] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to decide whether to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category during a first DRX active time according to the congestion level in the first DRX active time.

[0402] Example 76:

[0403] The method according to any one of Examples 71 to 75, comprising:

[0404] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to decide whether to process D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from a specific D2D communication category during a first DRX active time according to the congestion level in a second DRX active time.

[0405] Example 77:

[0406] The method according to any one of Examples 71 to 76, comprising:

[0407] The node (100; 1000; 1200) configures the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to process D2D transmissions of a specific D2D communication category having a higher priority than D2D transmissions of another D2D communication category during a second DRX active time.

[0408] Example 78:

[0409] The method according to any one of Examples 47 to 77, comprising:

[0410] The node (100; 1000; 1200) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one other wireless communication device among one or more other wireless communication devices.

[0411] Example 79:

[0412] The method according to any one of Embodiments 47 to 78, comprising:

[0413] A node (100; 1000; 1200) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on congestion of radio resources to be used in D2D communication.

[0414] Embodiment 80:

[0415] The method according to any one of Embodiments 47 to 79, comprising:

[0416] A node (100; 1000; 1200) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on a DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices.

[0417] Embodiment 81:

[0418] The method according to any one of Embodiments 47 to 80, comprising:

[0419] A node (100; 1000; 1200) determines at least one of a first DRX configuration and a second DRX configuration based on a selection among a plurality of predefined DRX configurations.

[0420] Embodiment 82:

[0421] The method according to Embodiment 81,

[0422] wherein the selection among the plurality of predefined DRX configurations is at least partially based on a random selection.

[0423] Embodiment 83:

[0424] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100), the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) being configured to:

[0425] Simultaneously maintain a first discontinuous reception DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication; and

[0426] Participate in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration.

[0427] Embodiment 84:

[0428] The wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) according to Embodiment 83,

[0429] wherein the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) is configured to perform the method according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 46.

[0430] Example 85:

[0431] A wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) according to Example 83 or 84, comprising:

[0432] At least one processor (1150), and

[0433] A memory (1160) containing program code executable by the at least one processor (1150),

[0434] whereby the at least one processor (1150) executes the program code to cause the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to perform the method according to any one of Examples 1 to 46.

[0435] Example 86:

[0436] A node (100; 1000; 1200) for a wireless communication network, the node (100; 1000; 1200) being configured to:

[0437] Configure a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100) to simultaneously maintain a first discontinuous reception DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100) and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices (10; 800; 1100).

[0438] Example 87:

[0439] The node according to Example 86,

[0440] wherein the node (100; 1000; 1200) is configured to perform the method according to any one of Examples 48 to 82.

[0441] Example 88:

[0442] A node (100; 1000; 1200) according to Example 86 or 87, comprising:

[0443] At least one processor (1250), and

[0444] A memory (1260) containing program code executable by the at least one processor (1250),

[0445] whereby the at least one processor (1250) executes the program code to cause the node (100; 1000; 1200) to perform the method according to any one of Examples 47 to 82.

[0446] Example 89:

[0447] A computer program or computer program product comprising program code to be executed by at least one processor (1150) of a wireless communication device (10; 800; 1100), whereby execution of the program code causes the wireless communication device (10; 800; 1000) to perform the method according to any one of embodiments 1 to 46.

[0448] Example 90:

[0449] A computer program or computer program product comprising program code to be executed by at least one processor of a node (100; 1000; 1200) for a wireless communication network, whereby execution of the program code causes the node (100; 1000; 1200) to perform the method according to any one of embodiments 47 to 82.

Claims

1. A method for controlling device-to-device (D2D) communication, the method comprising: A wireless communication device simultaneously maintains a first discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication, wherein the first DRX configuration is applicable to multiple D2D communication categories, and the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category, wherein, based on the identifier of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication and / or the address of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on the identifier of the D2D communication link used in the D2D communication, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode, based on one or more service types used in the D2D communication, based on the location of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on one or more quality of service attributes used in the D2D communication, and / or based on the data traffic characteristics of the D2D communication, define the D2D communication category; and Based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration, the wireless communication device participates in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices.

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising: The wireless communication device selects whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration, wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on the D2D communication with the one or more other wireless communication devices, wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on information received from at least one of the one or more other wireless communication devices, and / or wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on information received from a node of the wireless communication network.

3. The method according to claim 2, comprising: The wireless communication device indicates to at least one of the one or more other wireless communication devices the at least one selected from the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Among them, The multiple D2D communication categories include the specific D2D communication category.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: In response to a first D2D transmission, the wireless communication device enables the second DRX configuration, wherein the first D2D transmission belongs to the specific D2D communication category.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: In response to a second D2D transmission, the wireless communication device disables the second DRX configuration.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: The wireless communication device simultaneously maintains the first DRX configuration for D2D communication and multiple second DRX configurations for D2D communication, wherein the second DRX configurations are each applicable to different specific D2D communication categories.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Among them, wherein the processing of one or more D2D transmissions by the wireless communication device depends on a first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or a second DRX active time triggered by the second DRX configuration associated with the specific D2D communication category.

9. The method according to claim 8, comprising: Based on a congestion level in the first DRX active time, the wireless communication device determines whether to process D2D transmissions of the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time, and / or Based on a congestion level in the second DRX active time, the wireless communication device determines whether to process D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising at least one of the following: The wireless communication device determines at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one other wireless communication device among the one or more other wireless communication devices, The wireless communication device determines at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from a node of the wireless communication network, The wireless communication device determines at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on a DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices, or The wireless communication device determines at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on a selection among multiple predefined DRX configurations.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: The wireless communication device determines configuration information for at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration; and The wireless communication device indicates the determined configuration information to at least one other wireless communication device among the one or more other wireless communication devices.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Among them, The wireless communication device is a connected vehicle.

13. A method for controlling D2D communication in a wireless communication network, the method comprising: A node of the wireless communication network configures a wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration for device-to-device (D2D) communication with one or more other wireless communications and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices, wherein the first DRX configuration is applicable to multiple D2D communication categories, the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category, and wherein the D2D communication category is defined based on an identifier of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication and / or an address of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on an identifier of a D2D communication link used in the D2D communication, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode, based on one or more service types used in the D2D communication, based on a location of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on one or more quality of service attributes used in the D2D communication, and / or based on data traffic characteristics of the D2D communication.

14. The method according to claim 13, Among them, The multiple D2D communication categories include the specific D2D communication category.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, comprising: The node configures the wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain the first DRX configuration for D2D communication and multiple second DRX configurations for D2D communication, wherein each of the second DRX configurations is applicable to a different specific D2D communication category.

16. The method according to claim 13 or 14, Among them, Processing of one or more D2D transmissions by the wireless communication device depends on a first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or a second DRX active time triggered by the second DRX configuration associated with the specific D2D communication category.

17. The method according to claim 16, comprising: The node configures the wireless communication device to determine whether to process D2D transmissions of the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to a congestion level in the first DRX active time, and / or The node configures the wireless communication device to determine whether to process D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to a congestion level in the second DRX active time.

18. The method according to claim 13 or 14, comprising: The node determines at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one other wireless communication device among the one or more other wireless communication devices, and / or The node determines at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on a DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices.

19. A wireless communication device, the wireless communication device comprising: At least one processor, and A memory that includes program code executable by the at least one processor, whereby execution of the program code by the at least one processor causes the wireless communication device to: maintain a first discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication simultaneously, wherein the first DRX configuration is applicable to multiple D2D communication categories, the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category, and wherein a D2D communication category is defined based on an identifier of a wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication and / or an address of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on an identifier of a D2D communication link used in the D2D communication, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode, based on one or more service types used in the D2D communication, based on a location of the wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on one or more quality of service attributes used in the D2D communication, and / or based on data traffic characteristics of the D2D communication; and participate in D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration.

20. The wireless communication device according to claim 19, Among them, wherein execution of the program code by the at least one processor further causes the wireless communication device to: select whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration, wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on the D2D communication with the one or more other wireless communication devices, wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on information received from at least one of the one or more other wireless communication devices, and / or wherein the selection of whether to enable the first DRX configuration and / or the second DRX configuration is at least partially based on information received from a node of the wireless communication network.

21. The wireless communication device according to claim 20, Among them, wherein execution of the program code by the at least one processor further causes the wireless communication device to: indicate to at least one of the one or more other wireless communication devices the at least one selected from the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration.

22. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the multiple D2D communication categories include the specific D2D communication category.

23. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein execution of the program code by the at least one processor further causes the wireless communication device to: enable the second DRX configuration in response to a first D2D transmission, wherein the first D2D transmission belongs to the specific D2D communication category.

24. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the at least one processor executing the program code further causes the wireless communication device to: in response to a second D2D transmission, disable the second DRX configuration.

25. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the at least one processor executing the program code further causes the wireless communication device to: simultaneously maintain the first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a plurality of second DRX configurations for D2D communication, wherein each of the second DRX configurations is applicable to a different specific D2D communication category.

26. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the wireless communication device's handling of one or more D2D transmissions depends on a first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or a second DRX active time triggered by the second DRX configuration associated with the specific D2D communication category.

27. The wireless communication device according to claim 26, Among them, wherein the at least one processor executing the program code further causes the wireless communication device to: decide whether to handle D2D transmissions of the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to the congestion level in the first DRX active time, and / or decide whether to handle D2D transmissions of a D2D communication category different from the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to the congestion level in the second DRX active time.

28. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the at least one processor executing the program code further causes the wireless communication device to: determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one other wireless communication device among the one or more other wireless communication devices, determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from a node of the wireless communication network, determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on the DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices, or determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on a selection among a plurality of predefined DRX configurations.

29. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the at least one processor executing the program code further causes the wireless communication device to: determine configuration information for at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration; and indicate the determined configuration information to at least one other wireless communication device among the one or more other wireless communication devices.

30. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 19 to 21, Among them, wherein the wireless communication device is a connected vehicle.

31. A node for a wireless communication network, the node comprising: at least one processor, and A memory that stores program code executable by the at least one processor whereby execution of the program code by the at least one processor causes the node to: configure the wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain a first discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration for device-to-device (D2D) communication with one or more other wireless communication devices and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication with one or more other wireless communication devices, wherein the first DRX configuration is applicable to multiple D2D communication categories, the second DRX configuration is applicable to a specific D2D communication category, and wherein the D2D communication category is defined based on an identifier of a wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication and / or an address of a wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on an identifier of a D2D communication link used in the D2D communication, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a unicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a multicast transmission mode, based on whether the D2D communication is based on a broadcast transmission mode, based on one or more service types used in the D2D communication, based on a location of a wireless communication device participating in the D2D communication, based on one or more quality of service attributes used in the D2D communication, and / or based on data traffic characteristics of the D2D communication.

32. The node according to claim 31, Among them, wherein the multiple D2D communication categories include the specific D2D communication category.

33. The node according to claim 31 or 32, Among them, wherein execution of the program code by the at least one processor further causes the node to: configure the wireless communication device to simultaneously maintain the first DRX configuration for D2D communication and multiple second DRX configurations for D2D communication, wherein each of the second DRX configurations is applicable to a different specific D2D communication category.

34. The node according to claim 31 or 32, Among them, wherein processing of one or more D2D transmissions by the wireless communication device depends on a first DRX active time triggered by the first DRX configuration and / or a second DRX active time triggered by the second DRX configuration associated with the specific D2D communication category.

35. The node according to claim 34, Among them, wherein execution of the program code by the at least one processor further causes the node to: configure the wireless communication device to determine whether to process a D2D transmission of the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to a congestion level in the first DRX active time, and / or configure the wireless communication device to determine whether to process a D2D transmission of a D2D communication category different from the specific D2D communication category during the first DRX active time according to a congestion level in the second DRX active time.

36. The node according to claim 31 or 32, Among them, wherein execution of the program code by the at least one processor further causes the node to: Determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on configuration information received from at least one other wireless communication device among the one or more other wireless communication devices, and / or Determine at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration based on a DRX configuration used by other wireless communication devices.

37. A non-transitory storage medium having stored thereon program code to be executed by at least one processor of a wireless communication device, whereby execution of the program code causes the wireless communication device to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

38. A non-transitory storage medium having stored thereon program code to be executed by at least one processor of a node for a wireless communication network, whereby execution of the program code causes the node to perform the method according to any one of claims 13 to 18.

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