Method and apparatus for radio communication

Abstract

A method is provided, comprising monitoring (100; 300; 400) at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) based on at least one selection information (sel) characterizing a selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) associated with the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example implementations relate to enhancements in providing multicast sessions in radio networks. Background Technology

[0002] Multicast sessions are provided to send multicast data to multiple UEs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of this specification, a method is provided. The method includes: monitoring at least one multicast control channel based on at least one selection information, wherein the at least one selection information characterizes the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration associated with the at least one multicast control channel.

[0004] Advantageously, this avoids UEs that are not interested in low-latency services from monitoring multicast control channel changes more frequently. It also avoids inefficient resource usage, such as power utilization, at those UEs. Therefore, this configuration flexibly and efficiently supports multicast sessions for multicast services with different latency requirements.

[0005] To support services with different latency requirements, multiple multicast control channels are introduced, each corresponding to a different latency requirement. The UE can selectively monitor changes in the multicast control channels used for services with specific latency requirements of interest to the UE.

[0006] This solution enables systems to provide multicast and / or broadcast services to a variety of applications such as V2X, MCC, and mobile broadband simultaneously.

[0007] According to an advantageous example, the method includes: receiving a plurality of multicast control channel configurations and associated matching information; selecting at least one multicast control channel configuration from the plurality of received control configurations if at least one selection information matches the received matching information; and wherein the monitoring includes: monitoring at least one multicast control channel according to the selected at least one multicast control channel configuration.

[0008] Advantageously, the multicast control channel configuration is selected via the UE, and the UE's monitoring efforts are focused on a subset of the multiple available multicast control channels.

[0009] According to a favorable example, the method includes: receiving at least one selection information.

[0010] Advantageously, the UE is provided with selective information.

[0011] According to a favorable example, at least one selection information is associated with at least one QoS value.

[0012] Advantageously, associating with at least one QoS value enables the UE to select a multicast control channel at the QoS level.

[0013] According to a favorable example, the matching information represents the at least one QoS value or at least one other QoS value.

[0014] Advantageously, the matching information specifies that the UE can select multicast channel configuration via QoS.

[0015] According to an advantageous example, at least one selection information and matching information indicate a set of multicast sessions associated with at least one multicast control channel.

[0016] Advantageously, group configuration identifiers can be used to indicate multicast session sets. Furthermore, this matching information enables a reduction in the number of multicast control channels, as several services with comparable QoS can be provided to the UE via a single or reduced number of multicast control channels.

[0017] According to a second aspect of this specification, a method includes: determining a plurality of multicast control channel configurations for a multicast control channel based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with a corresponding multicast control channel; and transmitting at least one of the determined plurality of multicast control channel configurations.

[0018] Advantageously, this avoids UEs that are not interested in low-latency services from monitoring multicast control channel changes more frequently. It also avoids inefficient resource usage, such as power utilization, at those UEs. Therefore, this configuration flexibly and efficiently supports multicast sessions for multicast services with different latency requirements.

[0019] To support services with different latency requirements, multiple multicast control channels are introduced, each corresponding to a different latency requirement. The UE can selectively monitor changes in the multicast control channels used for services with specific latency requirements of interest to the UE.

[0020] This solution enables systems to provide multicast and / or broadcast services to a variety of applications such as V2X, MCC, and mobile broadband simultaneously.

[0021] According to an advantageous example, sending at least one of a plurality of multicast control channel configurations causes at least one means to: monitor at least one sent multicast control channel based on at least one selection information, wherein the at least one selection information characterizes the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration associated with at least one multicast control channel.

[0022] According to a favorable example, the method includes: sending multiple multicast control channel configurations and associated matching information.

[0023] Advantageously, multiple configurations are provided to the UE.

[0024] According to an advantageous example, the method includes: determining at least one selection information; and sending at least one selection information.

[0025] By providing selection information, the network enables the UE to select a specific multicast control channel configuration subsequently provided, and monitors at least one multicast control channel associated with the selected multicast control channel configuration.

[0026] According to an advantageous example, selection information is determined based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with the corresponding multicast control channel.

[0027] Advantageously, service characteristics are associated with or represented by corresponding QoS values, and selections are made based on QoS.

[0028] According to an advantageous example, the method includes: determining a scheduling frequency for at least one multicast control channel based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with the corresponding multicast control channel, as part of the configuration of the corresponding multicast control channel.

[0029] Advantageously, different scheduling frequencies allow UEs to adapt to the corresponding multicast services they want to receive.

[0030] According to a favorable example, at least one selection information is associated with at least one QoS value.

[0031] According to favorable examples, the matching information represents at least one QoS value or at least one other QoS value.

[0032] According to an advantageous example, at least one selection information and matching information indicate a set of multicast sessions associated with at least one multicast control channel.

[0033] According to a third aspect of this specification, a method includes: sending a join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group; receiving at least one multicast control channel configuration in response to the sent join message; and monitoring at least one multicast control channel based on the received at least one multicast control channel configuration.

[0034] Advantageously, this avoids UEs that are not interested in low-latency services from monitoring multicast control channel changes more frequently. It also avoids inefficient resource usage, such as power utilization, at those UEs. Therefore, this configuration flexibly and efficiently supports multicast sessions for multicast services with different latency requirements.

[0035] To support services with different latency requirements, multiple multicast control channels are introduced, each corresponding to a different latency requirement. The UE can selectively monitor changes in the multicast control channels used for services with specific latency requirements of interest to the UE.

[0036] This solution enables systems to provide multicast and / or broadcast services to a variety of applications such as V2X, MCC, and mobile broadband simultaneously.

[0037] According to a fourth aspect of this specification, a method includes: receiving a join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group; determining at least one multicast control channel configuration based on at least one multicast session and / or based on at least one multicast group; and, in response to the received join message, sending at least one of a plurality of multicast control channel configurations.

[0038] Advantageously, this avoids UEs that are not interested in low-latency services from monitoring multicast control channel changes more frequently. It also avoids inefficient resource usage, such as power utilization, at those UEs. Therefore, this configuration flexibly and efficiently supports multicast sessions for multicast services with different latency requirements.

[0039] To support services with different latency requirements, multiple multicast control channels are introduced, each corresponding to a different latency requirement. The UE can selectively monitor changes in the multicast control channels used for services with specific latency requirements of interest to the UE.

[0040] This solution enables systems to provide multicast and / or broadcast services to a variety of applications such as V2X, MCC, and mobile broadband simultaneously.

[0041] According to an advantageous example, the method includes: determining at least one QoS value associated with at least one multicast session and / or associated with at least one multicast group; and determining at least one multicast control channel configuration based on the at least one QoS value.

[0042] Advantageously, the configuration determination remains flexible relative to the multicast sessions provided.

[0043] According to an advantageous example, the method includes: determining at least one multicast control channel configuration based on pre-configured QoS values ​​associated with at least one multicast session and / or associated with at least one multicast group.

[0044] Multicast control channel configuration can be based on operator policies via pre-configured QoS values.

[0045] According to a fifth aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided comprising: a monitoring component for monitoring at least one multicast control channel based on at least one selection information, wherein the at least one selection information characterizes the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration associated with the at least one multicast control channel.

[0046] According to a sixth aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a determining component for determining a plurality of multicast control channel configurations of a multicast control channel based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with a corresponding multicast control channel; and a transmitting component for transmitting at least one of the determined plurality of multicast control channel configurations.

[0047] According to a seventh aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a transmitting component for transmitting a join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group; a receiving component for receiving at least one multicast control channel configuration in response to the transmitted join message; and a monitoring component for monitoring at least one multicast control channel based on the received at least one multicast control channel configuration.

[0048] According to an eighth aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a receiving component for receiving a join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group; a determining component for determining at least one multicast control channel configuration based on at least one multicast session and / or based on at least one multicast group; and a transmitting component for transmitting at least one of a plurality of multicast control channel configurations in response to the received join message.

[0049] According to a ninth aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided comprising: at least one processor, at least one memory including computer program code, and at least one communication module, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured together with the at least one processor and the at least one communication module to enable the apparatus to at least: monitor at least one multicast control channel based on at least one selection information, wherein the at least one selection information characterizes a selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration associated with the at least one multicast control channel.

[0050] According to a tenth aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor, at least one memory including computer program code, and at least one communication module, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured, together with the at least one processor and the at least one communication module, to cause the apparatus to at least: determine a plurality of multicast control channel configurations of a multicast control channel based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with a corresponding multicast control channel; and transmit at least one of the determined plurality of multicast control channel configurations.

[0051] According to an eleventh aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor, at least one memory including computer program code, and at least one communication module, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured, together with the at least one processor and the at least one communication module, to cause the apparatus to at least: transmit a join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group; receive at least one multicast control channel configuration in response to the transmitted join message; and monitor at least one multicast control channel based on the received at least one multicast control channel configuration.

[0052] According to a twelfth aspect of this specification, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor, at least one memory including computer program code, and at least one communication module, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured, together with the at least one processor and the at least one communication module, to cause the apparatus to at least: receive a join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group; determine at least one multicast control channel configuration based on at least one multicast session and / or based on at least one multicast group; and, in response to the received join message, transmit at least one of a plurality of multicast control channel configurations. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 and Figure 2 Each has been illustrated with a schematic diagram;

[0054] Figures 3 to 5 Each has drawn a schematic timing diagram;

[0055] Figure 6 A schematic time-frequency diagram is depicted; and

[0056] Figure 7 A schematic radio communication network is depicted. Detailed Implementation

[0057] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of the device UE and the device SNET is depicted.

[0058] The device UE includes a monitoring component or monitoring module for monitoring at least one multicast control channel MCCH1 among more than 100 multicast control channels MCCH1, MCCH2, and MCCH3 based on at least one selection information sel, wherein the at least one selection information represents the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 among multiple control channel configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3, the at least one multicast control channel configuration being associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1.

[0059] When multiple multicast transport channels are transmitted by the network, the UE needs to know which corresponding multicast control channel's changes it needs to acquire and monitor. The RAN provides multiple multicast control channels, where at least one multicast control channel, MCCH1 or MCCH2, is configured with different modification periods to match service requirements (e.g., QoS PDB). By determining the MCCH1 or MCCH2 of interest based on the PDB range or specific identifiers provided to the UE (e.g., along with a session description such as USD), the UE selects which multicast control channel MCCH1 or MCCH2 it needs to acquire and monitor for change notifications.

[0060] According to the example, for a UE in RRC_CONNECTED mode, the multicast control channel configuration corresponds to the multicast service the UE wants to join. The example also shows that the UE needs to be in RRC_CONNECTED mode to send a join message. The multicast control channel configuration is provided via dedicated RRC signaling. Based on this, the UE will store the received configuration and apply it when it enters RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE mode, and monitor the corresponding multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2.

[0061] The proposed scheme supports multicast services with varying latency requirements by introducing multiple SC-MCCHs with different modification periods to match service requirements. Thus, shorter modification periods for the corresponding SC-MCCHs support low-latency services, while appropriately selected longer modification periods support non-latency-critical services that do not require frequent monitoring of changes to the corresponding SC-MCCHs.

[0062] The UE is configured to selectively monitor SC-MCCH changes for those services with specific PDB / latency requirements that it is interested in. Therefore, UEs interested in services with less constrained latency requirements monitor SC-MCCH changes less frequently, thus saving power. However, the low latency requirements of multicast services can be satisfied because those interested UEs continue to monitor the corresponding SC-MCCH changes more frequently.

[0063] The apparatus SNET includes a determining component or processing module for determining multiple multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3 of 200 multicast control channels MCCH1, MCCH2, and MCCH3 based on at least one service characteristic QoS1, QoS2, and QoS3 of at least one multicast session associated with corresponding multicast control channels MCCH1, MCCH2, and MCCH3. The apparatus SNET also includes a transmitting component or transmitting module 202 for transmitting at least one of the determined multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3.

[0064] Service characteristics QoS1, QoS2, and QoS3 include, represent, and / or are QoS values. QoS values ​​may take the form of 5G QoS identifiers, QoS class identifiers, any comparable identifier, or attributes describing service quality, such as, for example, latency or packet delay budget.

[0065] In the context of multicast, multicast services are products offered to users or user devices, such as group calls. A multicast session represents the time period during which the parties or user devices consume the multicast service; that is, the time period during which a group call is established.

[0066] Figure 3 A schematic sequence diagram is depicted. Device SNET represents a device RAN that provides radio domain services to at least one device UE.

[0067] The device UE includes a receiving component or receiving module for receiving at least one selection information sel 302.

[0068] Through the USD, the UE is provided with at least one selection information sel, which includes QoS attributes, such as aggregated QoS requirements or according to the media stream. QoS attributes include, for example, PDB.

[0069] The RAN device determines the scheduling frequency of 200 multicast control channels based on the associated 5G QoS identifier 5QI (e.g., PDB range), i.e., including the SC-MCCH modification period. Furthermore, the RAN device broadcasts the multicast control channel list and associated PDB range, for example, by introducing a dedicated SIB message.

[0070] The RAN (Radio Access Module) includes a transmitting component or module for transmitting more than 3304 multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 and associated matching information m1, m2, m3. The UE (User Equipment) includes a receiving component or module for receiving more than 304 multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 and associated matching information m1, m2, m3.

[0071] Receiving at least one of 304 multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3 enables at least one device UE to monitor at least one transmitted multicast control channel MCCH1 based on at least one selection information sel, wherein the at least one selection information represents the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1.

[0072] According to the example, the dedicated SIB message contains a list of multicast control channels or their configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3 (with corresponding PDB ranges). Upon receiving the dedicated SIB message, the device UE determines which multicast control channel to monitor based on the QoS attributes and PDB ranges associated with the multicast control channel configurations provided in the SIB via transmission 304. In this case, if the QoS attributes provided via transmission 304 do not match 5GS 5QI (e.g., PDB), the device UE performs an appropriate mapping of the QoS attributes to 5GS 5QI. Subsequently, in response to any modification indication or corresponding change to the multicast control channel, the device UE monitors at least one multicast control channel selected by 300 according to the selected multicast control channel configuration conf1.

[0073] The device UE includes a selection component or processing module, which is used to select at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 from a plurality of received control configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 if at least one selection information sel matches the received matching information m1, m2, m3.

[0074] The device UE includes a monitoring component or monitoring module for monitoring at least one of more than 300 multicast control channels based on at least one selection information sel, wherein the at least one selection information represents the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 from a plurality of control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3, and the at least one multicast control channel configuration is associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1.

[0075] Based on the example, the provided scheme supports delay-limited reception of multicast services with different delay requirements at UEs in RRC_IDLE or RRC_INACTIVE modes. The RAN broadcasts multiple SC-MCCHs with different modification periods and associated PDB ranges. The PDB ranges can be broadcast in the SIB along with multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3.

[0076] As an example, PDB ranges can be broadcast within their own message content on the corresponding multicast control channels. The UE first acquires the multicast control channels and then selects the multicast control channels to be monitored. Additionally, the UE is provided with a PDB in the USD, which enables the UE to identify and monitor the corresponding multicast control channels.

[0077] At least one selection information sel is associated with at least one QoS value. Matching information m1, m2, m3 represents the at least one QoS value or at least one other QoS value that does not match at least one selection information sel.

[0078] According to the example, at least one selection information sel and matching information m1, m2, m3 indicate a set of multicast sessions associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1.

[0079] According to the example, at least one selection information sel and matching information m1, m2, m3 indicate a set of multicast sessions associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1, wherein the matching information m1, m2, m3 indicates the set of multicast sessions via a corresponding configuration group identifier.

[0080] The RAN (Radio Access Module) includes a transmitting component or module for transmitting multicast data md for the 3390 multicast service via a multicast transport channel such as SC-MTCH. The multicast transport channel is configured according to a multicast transport channel configuration indicated via a monitored multicast control channel. The UE (User Equipment) includes a receiving component or module for receiving the multicast data md for the 390 multicast service via the multicast transport channel.

[0081] Figure 4 A schematic sequence diagram is depicted. Device AF, representing the application function, sends an MBS service allocation request AR, such as a TMGI allocation request, to device 5GC. The Temporary Mobile Group Identifier (TMGI) is used within the MBMS to uniquely identify multicast and broadcast bearer services. Device 5GC responds with an MBS service allocation response AA (e.g., a TMGI allocation request response). Device AF sends an MBS service activation request MBAR, such as an MBMS activation request, to device 5GC.

[0082] The device 5GC includes a determining component or processing module for determining at least one selection information sel 4400. This selection information sel is determined based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with a corresponding multicast control channel.

[0083] Based on the example, it is determined that device 5GC allocates a configuration group identifier as selection information sel. This configuration group identifier is used to establish and identify at least one or more services with associated QoS requirements within a certain range.

[0084] Multiple configuration group identifiers, along with one or more associated QoS values, are provided to the device RAN via at least one MBMS Activation Request (MBAR). The device RAN responds to this request via an MBMS Activation Request (MBAA). The MBMS Activation Request (MBAR) includes a list of configuration group identifiers and associated QoS values.

[0085] According to the example, device 5GC requests device RAN to allocate a configuration group identifier because device RAN is responsible for determining the scheduling of multicast control channels. After determining the configuration group identifier, device 5GC provides the identifier to device AF as an MBMS activation response MAA, and subsequently, device AF provides one or more configuration group identifiers to device UE in USD so that device UE can monitor 400 at least one multicast control channel associated with that configuration group identifier.

[0086] The RAN device includes a transmitting component or transmitting module for transmitting 4404 multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 and associated matching information m1, m2, m3.

[0087] The device UE includes a receiving component or receiving module for receiving at least one selection information sel. The at least one selection information sel is associated with at least one QoS value. Matching information m1, m2, and m3 characterize the at least one QoS value or at least one other QoS value that will not match the at least one selection information sel. The at least one selection information sel and the matching information m1, m2, and m3 indicate a set of multicast sessions associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1.

[0088] Sending at least one of the multiple multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, and conf3 causes at least one device UE to monitor at least one transmitted multicast control channel MCCH1 based on at least one selection information sel, wherein the at least one selection information represents the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 associated with at least one multicast control channel.

[0089] This selection information is, for example, an identifier for at least one configuration group. This selection information can also be determined by the device 5GC or RAN.

[0090] The device UE includes a monitoring component or monitoring module for monitoring at least one of more than 400 multicast control channels based on at least one selection information sel, wherein the at least one selection information represents the selection of at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 from a plurality of control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3, the at least one multicast control channel configuration being associated with at least one multicast control channel MCCH1.

[0091] The device UE is provided with one or more configuration group identifiers at the selection information sel in the USD, indicating that the device UE is enabled to monitor at least one multicast control channel (such as SC-MCCH) of 400, thereby supporting delay-limited reception in RRC_IDLE or RRC_INACTIVE mode.

[0092] The RAN device includes a determining component or processing module for determining multiple multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 of the 4200 multicast control channel based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with the corresponding multicast control channel.

[0093] The RAN device includes a determining component or processing module for determining, as part of corresponding multicast control channel configurations con1, conf2, and conf3, a scheduling frequency for at least one multicast control channel based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with the corresponding multicast control channel. Determining 4200 includes multicast services with specific configuration group identifiers; the RAN device determines the corresponding multicast control channel configuration, including the scheduling frequency and modification period of the multicast control channel, based on a provided QoS value associated with the configuration group identifier.

[0094] For at least several multicast services associated with configuration group identifiers and based on QoS requirements, the RAN determines at least partially different scheduling frequencies and at least partially different modification periods for more than 4200 multicast control channels. The SIB (Service Instruction Block) 4404, which is transmitted, contains a list of multicast control channels or a configuration with corresponding configuration group identifiers and is broadcast. Upon receiving the SIB 404, the UE searches for multicast control channels 406 that match the associated configuration group identifier in the SIB using the provided configuration group identifier. If a matching configuration group identifier is found, the UE monitors the selected multicast control channel 400.

[0095] The device UE includes a receiving component or receiving module for receiving more than 404 multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 and associated matching information m1, m2, m3.

[0096] The device UE includes a selection component or processing module, which is used to select at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 from a plurality of received control configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 if at least one selection information sel matches the received matching information m1, m2, m3.

[0097] Therefore, monitoring 400 includes configuring conf1 according to at least one selected multicast control channel to monitor at least one multicast control channel.

[0098] The RAN (Radio Access Module) includes a transmitting component or module for transmitting multicast data md for the 4490 multicast service via a multicast transport channel such as SC-MTCH. The multicast transport channel is configured according to a multicast transport channel configuration indicated via a monitored multicast control channel. The UE (User Equipment) includes a receiving component or module for receiving the multicast data md for the 490 multicast service via the multicast transport channel.

[0099] Figure 5 A schematic sequence diagram is shown. RRC connections are established with devices UE1 and UE2 according to blocks 5050 and 5060, respectively.

[0100] The devices UE1 and UE2 include a transmitting component or transmitting module for transmitting 502 join messages j1 and j2, which indicate at least one multicast session and / or one multicast group.

[0101] The RAN device includes a receiving component or receiving module for receiving at least one join message j1, j2 of 5502, 5512, which indicates at least one multicast session and / or at least one multicast group.

[0102] The RAN device includes a transmitting component or transmitting module for transmitting at least one of the multiple multicast control channel configurations conf1, conf2, conf3 of 5504, 5514, as a response to received join messages j1, j2.

[0103] The device 5GC includes a determining component or processing module for determining at least one QoS value, QoSv1, QoSv2, associated with at least one multicast session and / or associated with at least one multicast group for 5016, 5018.

[0104] The RAN device includes a determining component or processing module for determining at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1, conf2 for 5026, 5028 based on at least one QoS value QoSv1, QoSv2.

[0105] According to another example, the apparatus RAN includes a determining component or processing module for determining at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1, 5026, 5028, based on pre-configured QoS values ​​associated with at least one multicast session and / or associated with at least one multicast group.

[0106] Therefore, the device SNET includes a determining component or processing module for determining at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1, conf2 based on at least one multicast session and / or based on at least one multicast group, wherein the determination of 5006, 5008 may include interaction with another entity.

[0107] The devices UE1 and UE2 include a receiving component or receiving module for receiving at least one multicast control channel configuration conf1 in response to the sent join messages j1 and j2.

[0108] The devices UE1 and UE2 include a monitoring component or monitoring module for configuring conf1 and conf2 based on at least one received multicast control channel, and monitoring at least one multicast control channel 500 and 5500.

[0109] When devices UE1 and UE2 need to join a multicast group (e.g., by sending Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) / Multicast Sense Discovery Protocol (MLD) join, or by control plane signaling with 5GC in RRC_CONNECTED mode), configurations conf1 and conf2 with appropriate modification periods for the services used by devices UE1 and UE2 to join are provided via dedicated RRC signaling. Devices UE1 and UE2 can then store the received configurations conf1 and conf2, apply them when entering RRC_IDLE or RRC_INACTIVE mode, and monitor corresponding multicast control channel changes.

[0110] Assume that devices UE1 and UE2 have established RRC connections with the RAN, respectively. UE1 and UE2 join different multicast sessions with different latency requirements. Therefore, the corresponding PDU sessions are modified.

[0111] To meet latency requirements, the RAN selects associated configurations conf1 and conf2 for the service and provides two different multicast control channels to UE1 and UE2, for example, with different modification periods. Subsequently, UE1 and UE2 can enter RRC_IDLE / RRC_INACTIVE and monitor the multicast control channels selected by 500 and 5500 via multicast control channel configurations conf1 and conf2.

[0112] exist Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the example, modifications to the multicast control channel configuration are transmitted via SIB signaling. According to Figure 5 For example, the network can page devices UE1 and UE2 in a group to trigger RRC connection establishment and provide them with updated multicast control channel configurations conf1 and conf2.

[0113] According to the example, messages sent on the multicast control channel contain the multicast control channel configuration and use the following modification period concept. When the multicast control channel configuration is modified, the network sends a change notification during modification period n. In the subsequent modification period n+1, a multicast control channel message is sent with the same configuration as in modification period n, but carrying a different multicast control channel configuration. Devices UE1 and UE2 apply the received new multicast control channel configuration to acquire and monitor the multicast control channel starting from modification period n+2. If the modification period is changed, the duration of modification period n+2 is different from the durations of modification periods n and n+1.

[0114] As shown in the example, to support mobility and service continuity in RRC_IDLE or RRC_INACTIVE, the SC-MCCH provides multicast channel configuration for services in neighboring cells. Information about service availability and corresponding SC-MCCH configurations in neighboring cells is exchanged between gNBs via the Xn interface.

[0115] The RAN device includes a transmitting component or transmitting module for transmitting multicast data md1 and md2 for the corresponding multicast services 5590 and 5592 via a multicast transport channel such as SC-MTCH. The multicast transport channel is configured according to a multicast transport channel configuration indicated via a monitored multicast control channel. The UE1 and UE2 devices include a receiving component or receiving module for receiving multicast data md1 and md2 for the corresponding multicast services 490 and 492 via the multicast transport channel.

[0116] Figure 6 A time-frequency diagram is schematically depicted. The different configurations of multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 are shown.

[0117] The SC-MCCH information (i.e., the information transmitted in a message sent via one of the multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 (at least one of which is, for example, SC-MCCH)) carries SC-PTM configuration information and is transmitted periodically using configurable repetition periods r1, r2 (which differ in the example shown). Configurable modification periods m1, m2 are used to change the SC-MCCH information, restricting the occurrence of such changes to specific radio frames.

[0118] Modification periods m1 and m2 consist of a fixed number of radio frames within which substantially the same SC-MCCH information can be transmitted several times, as defined by the scheduling based on repetition periods r1 and r2. For modification periods m1 and m2 consisting of x radio frames, the modification period boundaries are defined, for example, by the system frame number SFN value, where SFN mod x = 0. At the boundaries of SC-MCCH modification periods m1 and m2, the contents of multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 appear, resulting in announcements of new services or suspensions of active services.

[0119] During the first modification periods m1n and m2n, change notifications are sent, for example, via multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 or via the downlink common control channel. During the subsequent second modification periods m1(n+1) and m2(n+1), updated information is sent via the corresponding multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2.

[0120] Modifying the periods m1 and m2 defines, for example, the boundary of periodic occurrence, i.e., a radio frame where SFN mod sc-MCCH-ModificationPeriod = 0. According to the example, if at least one such boundary exists between them, the different transmissions of MCCH1 or MCCH2 information will have different content.

[0121] A notification mechanism is used to notify the UE of changes to the corresponding multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 (e.g., due to session start or pause). Following the change notification in the nth modification period m1, m2, updates to the multicast radio control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 occur in the (n+1)th modification period m1, m2, as shown in the figure. The UE begins acquiring the corresponding MCCH1 and MCCH2 from substantially the same subframe in which it received the change notification.

[0122] When the network changes certain MCCH1 and MCCH2 information, it notifies the UE of the change in the first subframe that can be used for MCCH1 and MCCH2 transmission in repetition periods r1 and r2. The LSB bit in the 8-bit bitmap, when set to "1", indicates the change in MCCH1 and MCCH2. Upon receiving the change notification, UEs interested in receiving MBMS services transmitted using SC-PTM acquire the new SC-MCCH information starting from substantially the same subframe. The UE applies the previously acquired MCCH1 and MCCH2 information until it acquires the new MCCH1 and MCCH2 information.

[0123] Multiple multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 exist, carrying SC-PTM configuration information to provide SC-MTCH configuration for multicast services. Modification periods can be configured for the corresponding multicast control channels MCCH1 and MCCH2 to meet the latency requirements of multicast services and / or multicast sessions. If a multicast service with low latency requirements exists (e.g., mission-critical services), the modification periods m1 and m2 are configured to be shorter, allowing the UE to monitor changes to MCCH1 and MCCH2 more frequently and acquire new MCCH1 and MCCH2 with low latency.

[0124] Figure 7 A radio communication network (RCN) is schematically depicted. Devices SNET and UE include at least one processor P1, P2, at least one non-volatile memory M1, M2 including computer program code CPC1, CPC2, and at least one communication module C1, C2 coupled to at least one antenna A1, A2. The at least one memory M1, M2 and the computer program code CPC1, CPC2 are configured to, together with the at least one processor P1, P2 and the at least one communication module or communication component C1, C2, enable devices SNET and UE to operate at least as described above. Devices SNET and UE communicate via a dedicated radio channel. Device SNET may include, as... Figure 3 The device RAN, or may include, for example Figure 4 Another device RAN, 5GC and AF, or may include such as Figure 5 The devices RAN and 5GC.

[0125] Some abbreviations that may be found in this specification and / or the accompanying drawings are defined herein as follows:

[0126] 5GC 5G Core Network

[0127] 5GS 5G system

[0128] 3GPP Third Generation Partnership Project

[0129] 5QI 5G QoS identifier

[0130] AF application functions

[0131] gNB Next Generation eNodeB IGMP Internet Group Management Protocol

[0132] LTE Long Term Evolution

[0133] MBB Mobile Broadband

[0134] MBMS Multimedia Broadcast / Multicast Service

[0135] MCC Mission-Critical Communication

[0136] MIB (Master Information Block)

[0137] MLD Multicast Sniffing Discovery Protocol

[0138] NR New Radio

[0139] PDB Packet Delay Budget

[0140] PDU (Packet Data Unit)

[0141] PRACH (Physical Random Access Channel)

[0142] QoS (Quality of Service)

[0143] RAN (Radio Access Network)

[0144] SC-MCCH Single Cell Multicast Control Channel

[0145] SC-MRB Single Cell MBMS Point-to-Multipoint Radio Bearer SC-MTCH Single-Cell Multicast Transmission Channel

[0146] SC-PTM Single-cell point-to-multipoint

[0147] SFN system frame number

[0148] SI System Information

[0149] SIB System Information Block

[0150] UE User Equipment

[0151] TGMI Temporary Mobility Group Identifier

[0152] USD User Service Description

[0153] V2X vehicles for everything

[0154] Although this disclosure has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples, it is apparent that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, but may be modified in various ways within the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, all words and expressions should be interpreted broadly and are intended to illustrate rather than limit the embodiments. As technology advances, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various ways. Furthermore, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the embodiments described may, but are not necessarily, be combined with other embodiments in various ways.

Claims

1. A method, performed by a user equipment (UE), comprising: Receive at least one selection information (sel) (302, 402), and based on the at least one selection information (sel), monitor at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) (100; 300; 400), wherein the at least one selection information (sel) characterizes the selection (sel) of at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) associated with the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1), and the at least one selection information (sel) is determined based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with the corresponding multicast control channel, the at least one selection information (sel) is associated with at least one QoS value, the QoS value including packet delay budget (PDB), and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is configured with different modification periods to match the QoS PDB; Receive (304; 404) multiple multicast control channel configurations (conf1, conf2, conf3) and associated matching information (m1, m2, m3), wherein the matching information (m1, m2, m3) represents the at least one QoS value or at least one other QoS value; If the at least one selection information (sel) matches the received matching information (m1, m2, m3), then the at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is selected (306; 406) from the received plurality of control configurations (conf1, conf2, conf3), and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored according to the selected at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1); and When at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is updated during the modification period n of the multicast control channel, the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is received, and starting from the modification period n+2 of the multicast control channel, the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored according to the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1).

2. A method, performed by a user equipment (UE), comprising: Send (502) join message (j1), the join message indicating at least one multicast session or a multicast group, wherein the UE is in connected mode; In response to the sent join message (j1), receive (504) at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1); Store at least one received multicast control channel configuration (conf1); When the UE enters idle mode or deactivation mode, it monitors (500) at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) based on the stored multicast control channel configuration (conf1). as well as When at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is updated during the modification period n of the multicast control channel, the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is received, and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored according to the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) starting from the modification period n+2 of the multicast control channel. The at least one multicast session and / or the at least one multicast group are associated with at least one QoS value (QoSv1; QoSv2), the at least one QoS value (QoSv1; QoSv2) QoSv2) is associated with the at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1, conf2), and the at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is determined based on pre-configured QoS values ​​associated with the at least one multicast session and / or associated with the at least one multicast group, the QoS values ​​including packet delay budget (PDB), and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is configured with different modification periods to match the PDB of the quality of service (QoS).

3. An apparatus (UE) comprising: At least one processor, at least one memory including computer program code, and at least one communication module, said at least one memory and said computer program code being configured together with said at least one processor and said at least one communication module to enable the device (UE) to at least: Receive at least one selection information (sel) (302, 402), and based on the at least one selection information (sel), monitor at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) (100; 300; 400), wherein the at least one selection information (sel) represents the selection (sel) of at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) associated with the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1), and the at least one selection information (sel) is determined based on at least one service characteristic of at least one multicast session associated with the corresponding multicast control channel, the at least one selection information (sel) is associated with at least one QoS value, the QoS value including packet delay budget (PDB), and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is configured with different modification periods to match the QoS PDB; Receive (304; 404) multiple multicast control channel configurations (conf1, conf2, conf3) and associated matching information (m1, m2, m3), wherein the matching information (m1, m2, m3) represents the at least one QoS value or at least one other QoS value; If the at least one selection information (sel) matches the received matching information (m1, m2, m3), then the at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is selected (306; 406) from the received plurality of control configurations (conf1, conf2, conf3), and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored according to the selected at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1); and When at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is updated during the modification period n of the multicast control channel, the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is received, and starting from the modification period n+2 of the multicast control channel, the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored according to the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1).

4. An apparatus (UE) comprising: At least one processor, at least one memory including computer program code, and at least one communication module, said at least one memory and said computer program code being configured together with said at least one processor and said at least one communication module to enable the device (UE) to at least: Send (502) join message (j1), wherein the join message indicates at least one multicast session or a multicast group; In response to the sent join message (j1), receive (504) at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1); Store at least one received multicast control channel configuration (conf1); When the UE enters idle mode or deactivation mode, based on the stored multicast control channel configuration (conf1), at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored (500); and When at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is updated during the modification period n of the multicast control channel, the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is received, and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is monitored according to the updated at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) starting from the modification period n+2 of the multicast control channel. The at least one multicast session and / or the at least one multicast group are associated with at least one QoS value (QoSv1; QoSv2), the at least one QoS value (QoSv1; QoSv2) is associated with the at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1, conf2), and the at least one multicast control channel configuration (conf1) is determined based on a pre-configured QoS value associated with the at least one multicast session and / or associated with the at least one multicast group, the QoS value including packet delay budget (PDB), and the at least one multicast control channel (MCCH1) is configured with different modification periods to match the PDB of the Quality of Service (QoS).

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