Paging handling with different DRX cycles

Abstract

A solution for paging is described herein. According to one aspect, there is provided a user equipment configured to: determine a user equipment configuration, where the user equipment configuration comprises at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception, inactive extended discontinuous reception, or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception; determining a network node configuration, wherein the network node configuration defines at least one permission state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception, inactive extended discontinuous reception, or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception; determining a discontinuous reception period at least based on the user equipment configuration and the network node configuration; and receiving a paging request based on the discontinuous reception period.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Example embodiments generally relate to paging processing with different discontinuous reception cycles, and more particularly, to paging processing depending on whether an extended discontinuous reception cycle is allowed in a cell. Background Art

[0002] In some cases, when the user equipment resides in a cell that does not allow a specific extended discontinuous reception cycle, the core network or radio access network may think that the user equipment is using the specific extended discontinuous reception cycle. This may cause the core network or radio access network and the user equipment to be out of sync on the discontinuous reception cycle that the user equipment is using. For example, if idle extended discontinuous reception is not allowed in the cell where the user equipment is monitoring paging. The core network node can operate as if the user equipment is monitoring paging according to the idle extended discontinuous reception cycle. When the core network pages according to the idle extended discontinuous reception cycle, this may cause energy to be consumed unnecessarily. In addition, when the frequency that the user equipment is monitoring is higher than the frequency that the core network is paging, unnecessary delays may occur. Summary of the invention

[0003] In one or more embodiments, a network node (120) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one memory stores instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the network node (120) to send a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The network node (120) is also caused to receive a paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0004] In one or more embodiments, a core network node (130) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one memory stores instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the core network node (130) to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). The core network node (130) is also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0005] In one or more embodiments, an anchor network node (140) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, which when executed by the processor, causes the anchor network node (140) to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the anchor network node (140) is also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0006] In one or more embodiments, a user equipment (110) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one memory stores instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the user equipment (110) to determine (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) includes at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based at least on the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is further enabled to receive a paging request based on a discontinuous reception cycle (350).

[0007] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method is provided, comprising: performing, by a network node (120), sending a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The computer-implemented method also includes receiving a paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0008] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method is provided, performed by a core network node (130), comprising receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0009] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method is provided, the method being performed by an anchor network node (140) and comprising receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). The computer-implemented method further comprises sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0010] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method performed by a user equipment (110) is provided, the method comprising determining (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) comprises at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises determining (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises determining (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based at least on the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises receiving a paging request based on the discontinuous reception period (350).

[0011] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions, which, when executed by a network node, cause the network node to send a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The network node (120) is also caused to receive a paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0012] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions, which, when executed by a core network node, cause the core network node to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). The core network node (130) is also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0013] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions, which, when executed by an anchor network node, cause the anchor network node to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the anchor network node (140) is further caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0014] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions, which, when executed by a user equipment, cause the user equipment to determine (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) includes at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based on at least the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is further enabled to receive a paging request based on a discontinuous reception cycle (350).

[0015] In one or more embodiments, a network node is provided that includes means for sending a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The network node (120) also includes means for receiving a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0016] In one or more embodiments, a core network node is provided, comprising means for receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). The core network node (130) further comprises means for sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0017] In one or more embodiments, an anchor network node is provided, comprising means for receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the anchor network node (140) further comprises means for sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0018] In one or more embodiments, a user equipment is provided, comprising means for determining (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) comprises at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) further comprises means for determining (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) further comprises means for determining (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based at least on the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) further comprises means for receiving a paging request based on the discontinuous reception period (350). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Having generally described certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure above, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0020] Figure 1 is a block diagram of a system including both a base station and a user equipment according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure, the system being configured to transmit communications via at least an uplink and a downlink.

[0021] Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure Figure 1 Block diagram of an example communication system in which the system may be deployed.

[0022] Figure 3A is a table showing paging processing when a user equipment has an idle extended discontinuous reception configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 3B is a table showing paging processing when a user equipment has an inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3C is a table showing paging processing when a user equipment has an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 3Dis a table showing paging processing when a user equipment has both an inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration and an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception configuration according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 4 is a flow diagram illustrating operations such as those performed by network node 120 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 5 is a flow chart illustrating operations such as performed by a core network node 130 or an anchor network node 140 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 6 is a flow chart illustrating operations such as those performed by user device 110 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Some embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some but not all embodiments are shown. In fact, various embodiments may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals always represent similar elements. As used herein, the terms "data", "content", "information" and similar terms may be used interchangeably to refer to data that can be sent, received and / or stored according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, the use of any such terms should not be considered to limit the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0030] Additionally, as used herein, the term "circuitry" refers to (a) a hardware circuit implementation only (such as, implemented only in analog and / or digital circuitry); (b) a combination of circuitry and (multiple) computer program products, including software and / or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer-readable memories, that work together to cause the device to perform one or more functions described herein; and (c) circuitry, such as, for example, (multiple) microprocessors or portions of (multiple) microprocessors, that requires software or firmware to operate, even if the software or firmware is not physically present. This definition of "circuitry" applies to all uses of the term herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term "circuitry" also includes an implementation that includes one or more processors and / or portions thereof and accompanying software and / or firmware. As another example, the term "circuitry" as used herein also includes, for example, a baseband integrated circuit or application processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone or similar integrated circuits in a server, cellular network equipment, other network equipment (such as a core network equipment), a field programmable gate array, and / or other computing devices.

[0031] As used herein, the term "computer-readable medium" refers to non-transitory storage hardware, non-transitory storage devices, or non-transitory computer system memory, which can be accessed by a controller, a microcontroller, a computing system, or a module of a computing system to store computer executable instructions or software programs thereon. Non-transitory "computer-readable medium" can be accessed by a computing system or a module of a computing system to obtain and / or execute computer executable instructions or software programs encoded on the medium. Examples of non-transitory computer-readable media can include, but are not limited to, one or more types of hardware memory, non-transitory tangible media (e.g., one or more magnetic storage disks, one or more optical disks, one or more universal synchronous bus (USB) flash drives), computer system memory, or random access memory (such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), extended data output random access memory (EDO RAM), etc.

[0032] The inventors have identified a method for optimizing paging of a user equipment so that the user equipment is paged in each cell of the user equipment's radio access network or tracking area based on the discontinuous reception cycle the user equipment is using. This can, for example, improve the energy efficiency of the user equipment.

[0033] like Figure 1 As shown, system 100 is provided according to an exemplary embodiment to perform event reporting. Although the system can be configured in various ways, the system of one embodiment is Figure 1 1 and includes a user equipment 110, a network node 120, a core network entity 130, and an anchor network entity 140 configured to communicate via at least uplink and downlink transmit and receive beams. Although one user equipment, two network nodes, and one core network node are described, the system may include, and in other embodiments, the user equipment 110, the network node 120, the core network node 140, and the anchor network node 140 may communicate with additional user equipment, network nodes, and core network nodes. In one or more embodiments, the user equipment 110, the network node 120, the core network node 130, and the anchor network node 140 may be configured to support, for example, 5G, 5G advanced, or 6G. In one or more embodiments, the system 100 may support carrier aggregation and / or dual connectivity. As described below, the system is configured to send various requests, signals, reports, and / or configurations.

[0034] The data transmitted between the user equipment 110, the network node 120, the core network node 130, and the anchor network node 140 may be a variety of data, including but not limited to digital image data, including video data, audio data, and data provided by sensors, radars, telescopes, and radio receivers. In at least some cases, the data is encoded prior to communication of the data via uplink and downlink beams, and decoded upon reception. The resulting data received may be utilized for a variety of purposes, including presentation to a user, storage of the data for subsequent use, and / or provision of the data to one or more applications, such as applications that perform statistical reasoning on the data for a variety of purposes, including object recognition, image classification, spectrum sensing, speech transcription, and / or prediction or detection of events.

[0035] Figure 1 The user equipment 110 (also referred to as UE, user equipment, user terminal, terminal device, etc.) shows a type of device that is allocated and assigned resources on the air interface. The user equipment 110 generally refers to a portable computing device, including wireless mobile communication devices that operate with or without a user subscriber module (SIM), including but not limited to the following types of devices: mobile stations (mobile phones), smart phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), mobile phones, devices using wireless modems (alarms or measuring devices, etc.), laptops and / or touch screen computers, tablets, game consoles, notebooks, and multimedia devices. The user equipment 110 can also be a device with the ability to operate in an Internet of Things (IoT) network, which is a scenario in which objects are provided with the ability to transmit data over a network without human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction. The user equipment 110 is configured to perform one or more user equipment functions of the user equipment function. The user equipment 110 can also be called a subscriber unit, a mobile station, a remote terminal, an access terminal, a user terminal, or a user equipment (UE), just to name a few names or devices.

[0036] Figure 1 The network nodes 120 and anchor network nodes 130 in the embodiment may include, for example, base stations such as remote radio heads (RRHs), transmission reception points (TRPs), access points, Node Bs (e.g., gNBs), radio access network (RAN) nodes, or other transmission sources. The network nodes 120 and anchor network nodes 140 may be configured to communicate with the user equipment 110 via a network.

[0037] The core network node 130 may include an access and mobility management function (AMF). The core network entity 140 may be configured to communicate with any one of the user equipment 110 , the distributed network entity 120 , and the central network entity 130 .

[0038] Figure 2An example apparatus 200 is depicted, which may be configured to function as a user equipment 110, a network node 120, a core network node 130, and / or an anchor network node 140. Figure 2 As shown, the apparatus includes, is associated with, or communicates with a processing circuit system 220, a memory 240, and a communication interface 260. The processing circuit system 220 may communicate with the memory device 240 via a bus to transfer information between components of the apparatus. The memory device may be non-transient and may include, for example, one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. In other words, for example, the memory device may be an electronic storage device (e.g., a computer-readable storage medium) including a gate configured to store data (e.g., bits) that may be acquired by a machine (e.g., a computing device such as a processing circuit system). The memory device may be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, etc., so that the apparatus can perform various functions according to the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the memory device may be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processing circuit system. Additionally or alternatively, the memory device may be configured to store instructions for execution by the processing circuit system.

[0039] In some embodiments, the device 200 may be embodied in the various computing devices described above. However, in some embodiments, the device may be embodied as a chip or a chipset. In other words, the device may include one or more physical packages (e.g., chips), including materials, components, and / or wires on a structural assembly (e.g., a substrate). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, size savings, and / or limitations on electrical interactions for the component circuitry included thereon. Therefore, in some cases, the device may be configured to implement an embodiment on a single chip or as a single "system on a chip." Therefore, in some cases, a chip or a chip set may constitute a component for performing one or more operations to provide the functionality described herein.

[0040] The processing circuit system 220 (also referred to as a processor) can be embodied in a variety of different ways. For example, the processing circuit system can be embodied as one or more of various hardware processing components, such as a coprocessor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processing element with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other circuit systems, including integrated circuits, such as, for example, ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits), FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays), microcontroller units (MCUs), hardware accelerators, special-purpose computer chips, etc. Therefore, in some embodiments, the processing circuit system may include one or more processing cores configured to execute independently. Multi-core processing circuit systems can implement multi-processing within a single physical package. Additionally or alternatively, the processing circuit system may include one or more processors configured in series via a bus to implement independent execution, pipelining, and / or multi-threading of instructions.

[0041] In an example embodiment, the processing circuit system 220 may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory device 240 or otherwise accessible to the processing circuit system. Alternatively or additionally, the processing circuit system may be configured to perform hard-coded functions. Therefore, whether configured by hardware or software methods, or by a combination thereof, the processing circuit system may represent an entity (e.g., physically embodied in a circuit system) capable of performing operations according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, while performing corresponding configurations. Therefore, for example, when the processing circuit system is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA, etc., the processing circuit system may be specially configured hardware for performing the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the processing circuit system is embodied as an executor of instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein when the instructions are executed. However, in some cases, the processing circuit system may be a processor of a specific device (e.g., an image or video processing system) that is configured to further configure the processing circuit system through instructions to adopt an embodiment to perform the algorithms and / or operations described herein. The processing circuitry may include, among other things, a clock, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and logic gates that are configured to support the operation of the processing circuitry.

[0042] The communication interface 260 can be any component, such as a device or circuit system embodied in hardware or a combination of hardware and software, which is configured to receive and / or send data, including media content in the form of video or image files, one or more audio tracks, etc. In this regard, the communication interface may include, for example, an antenna (or multiple antennas) and supporting hardware and / or software for implementing communication with a wireless communication network. Additionally or alternatively, the communication interface may include a circuit system for interacting with (multiple) antennas to cause the transmission of signals via (multiple) antennas or the reception of signals via (multiple) antennas. In some environments, the communication interface may alternatively or also support wired communication. Thus, for example, the communication interface may include a communication modem and / or other hardware / software for supporting communication via cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), universal serial bus (USB) or other mechanisms.

[0043] Now go to Figure 3A According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a table showing paging processing when a user equipment has an idle extended discontinuous reception configuration (RRC_IDLE) is provided. Figure 3A As shown, the user equipment 110 may have a user equipment configuration 300 of idle extended discontinuous reception 310. In some examples, for RRC_IDLE, the extended discontinuous reception for core network paging is configured by a higher layer. In some examples, in RRC_IDLE, the user equipment 110 may only monitor core network paging. In some examples, the user equipment 110 monitors the paging channel for paging initiated by the core network. In some examples, paging discontinuous reception is defined as the user equipment under RRC_IDLE only needs to monitor the paging channel during one paging opportunity of each discontinuous reception cycle. In some examples, for paging initiated by the core network, the default cycle broadcast in the system information or the user equipment specific cycle configured via non-access layer (NAS) signaling can be used. In some examples, the user equipment 110 will use the shortest available cycle.

[0044] In one or more embodiments, the network node 120 may allow and / or disallow extended discontinuous reception 310 for idle mode in its cell(s). In some examples, the network node indicates 340 this to at least one other network node, such as the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140. For example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception for idle mode is allowed in its cell(s) by broadcasting eDRX-AllowedIdle. As another example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception 310 for idle mode is not allowed in its cell(s) by not broadcasting eDRX-AllowedIdle. In some examples, information about whether extended discontinuous reception for core network and / or radio access network paging is allowed on a cell is provided separately in system information. In some examples, the indication 340 may be cell-specific or gNB-specific. In some examples, the indication 340 conveys the permissibility state for idle extended discontinuous reception 310.

[0045] In some examples, the network node 120 indicates that it has cell(s) that do not allow idle extended discontinuous reception 310 and / or cell(s) that allow idle extended discontinuous reception 310. Based on this information, in some examples, at least one other network node 130 / 140 will send a paging request to the network node 120 based on whether it allows extended discontinuous reception for idle mode 310. In some examples, if the network node 120 does not allow idle extended discontinuous reception 310, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 immediately sends a paging request for the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 (or close to the next paging occasion (PO)). In examples where idle extended discontinuous reception 310 is not allowed, the user equipment 110 operates with a discontinuous reception 370 period. In one example, if the network node 120 allows the idle extended discontinuous reception mode 310 , the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 sends a paging request of the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 only before the paging occasion calculated based on the idle extended discontinuous reception 310 period of the user equipment 110 .

[0046] In one or more embodiments, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140, when sending a paging request to the second network node that allows idle extended discontinuous reception 310, also sends a paging request to the network node 120 that does not allow idle extended discontinuous reception 310. In other words, in one example, paging of the user equipment 110 may be requested twice (or more) from the network node 120 that does not allow idle extended discontinuous reception 310 in their cell(s).

[0047] Now go to Figure 3B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a table is provided to illustrate paging processing when a user equipment has an inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration (RRC_INACTIVE). Figure 3B As shown, the user equipment 110 may have a user equipment configuration 300 of inactive extended discontinuous reception 320. In some examples, for RRC_INACTIVE, the extended discontinuous reception for radio access network paging is determined and configured by the next generation radio access network (NG-RAN). In some examples, in RRC_INACTIVE, the user equipment 110 may monitor both radio access network paging and core network paging. In some examples, in the absence of an ongoing small data transmission (SDT) process, the user equipment 110 monitors the paging channel for core network initiated paging and radio access network initiated paging. In some examples, paging discontinuous reception is defined as the user equipment under RRC_INACTIVE only needs to monitor the paging channel during one paging occasion of each discontinuous reception cycle. In some examples, for paging initiated by the core network, the default cycle broadcast in the system information or the user equipment specific cycle configured via non-access layer (NAS) signaling can be used. In some examples, for paging initiated by the radio access network, the user equipment specific cycle configured via radio resource control (RRC) signaling can be used. In some examples, user equipment 110 will use the shortest available period.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the network node 120 may allow and / or not allow extended discontinuous reception 320 for inactive mode in its cell(s). In some examples, the network node indicates 340 this to at least one other network node, such as the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140. For example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception 320 for inactive mode is allowed in its cell(s) by broadcasting eDRX-AllowedInactive. As another example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception 320 for inactive mode is not allowed in its cell(s) by not broadcasting eDRX-AllowedInactive. In some examples, information about whether extended discontinuous reception for core network and / or radio access network paging is allowed on a cell is provided separately in system information. In some examples, the indication 340 may be cell-specific or gNB-specific. In some examples, the indication 340 conveys a permissibility state for inactive extended discontinuous reception 320.

[0049] In some examples, the network node 120 indicates that it has cell(s) that do not allow inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 and / or cell(s) that allow inactive extended discontinuous reception 320. Based on this information, in some examples, at least one other network node 130 / 140 will send a paging request to the network node 120 based on whether it allows extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 320. In some examples, if the network node 120 does not allow inactive extended discontinuous reception 320, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 immediately sends a paging request for the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 (or close to the next paging occasion). In examples where inactive extended discontinuous reception 310 is not allowed, the user equipment 110 operates with an inactive discontinuous reception 380 period. In one example, if the network node 120 allows the inactive extended discontinuous reception mode 310 , the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 sends a paging request of the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 only before a paging occasion calculated based on the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 period of the user equipment 110 .

[0050] In one or more embodiments, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140, when sending a paging request to the second network node that allows the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320, also sends a paging request to the network node 120 that does not allow the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320. In other words, in one example, paging of the user equipment 110 may be requested twice (or more) from the network node 120 that does not allow the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 in their cell(s).

[0051] Now go to Figure 3C According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a table is provided to illustrate paging processing when a user equipment has an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception configuration. Figure 3CAs shown, the user equipment 110 may have a user equipment configuration 300 of inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330. In some examples, for RRC_INACTIVE, the extended discontinuous reception for radio access network paging is determined and configured by the next generation radio access network (NG-RAN). In some examples, in RRC_INACTIVE, the user equipment 110 may monitor both radio access network paging and core network paging. In some examples, in the absence of an ongoing small data transmission (SDT) process, the user equipment 110 monitors the paging channel for core network initiated paging and radio access network initiated paging. In some examples, paging discontinuous reception is defined as the user equipment under RRC_INACTIVE only needs to monitor the paging channel during one paging occasion of each discontinuous reception cycle. In some examples, for paging initiated by the core network, the default cycle broadcast in the system information or the user equipment specific cycle configured via non-access layer (NAS) signaling can be used. In some examples, for paging initiated by the radio access network, the user equipment specific cycle configured via radio resource control (RRC) signaling can be used. In some examples, user equipment 110 will use the shortest available period.

[0052] In one or more embodiments, the network node 120 may allow and / or disallow enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 for inactive mode in its cell(s). In some examples, the network node indicates 340 this to at least one other network node, such as the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140. For example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that enhanced extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 330 is allowed in its cell(s) by broadcasting enhanced-eDRX-AllowedInactive. As another example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 330 is not allowed in its cell(s) by not broadcasting enhanced-eDRX-AllowedInactive. In some examples, information about whether extended discontinuous reception for core network and / or radio access network paging is allowed on a cell is provided separately in system information. In some examples, the indication 340 may be cell-specific or gNB-specific. In some examples, indication 340 conveys a permissibility status for inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 .

[0053] In some examples, the network node 120 indicates that it has cell(s) that do not allow inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 and / or cell(s) that allow inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330. Based on this information, in some examples, at least one other network node 130 / 140 will send a paging request to the network node 120 based on whether it allows extended enhanced discontinuous reception for inactive mode 330. In some examples, if the network node 120 does not allow inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 immediately sends a paging request for the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 (or close to the next paging occasion). In examples where inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 is not allowed, the user equipment 110 operates with an inactive discontinuous reception 380 period. In one example, if the network node 120 allows the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception mode 330 , the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 sends a paging request of the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 only before the paging occasion calculated based on the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 period of the user equipment 110 .

[0054] In one or more embodiments, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140, when sending a paging request to the second network node that allows the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330, also sends a paging request to the network node 120 that does not allow the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330. In other words, in one example, paging of the user equipment 110 may be requested twice (or more) from the network node 120 that does not allow the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 in their cell(s).

[0055] Now go to Figure 3D According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a table is provided showing paging processing when a user equipment has both an inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration and an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception configuration. Figure 3CAs shown, the user equipment 110 may have a user equipment configuration 300 of both an inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration 320 and an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception configuration 330. In some examples, for RRC_INACTIVE, the extended discontinuous reception for radio access network paging is determined and configured by the next generation radio access network (NG-RAN). In some examples, in RRC_INACTIVE, the user equipment 110 may monitor both radio access network paging and core network paging. In some examples, in the absence of an ongoing small data transmission (SDT) process, the user equipment 110 monitors a paging channel for core network initiated paging and radio access network initiated paging. In some examples, paging discontinuous reception is defined as a user equipment under RRC_INACTIVE that only needs to monitor the paging channel during one paging occasion of each discontinuous reception cycle. In some examples, for paging initiated by the core network, a default period broadcast in the system information or a user equipment specific period configured via non-access layer (NAS) signaling may be used. In some examples, for radio access network initiated paging, a user equipment specific cycle configured via radio resource control (RRC) signaling may be used. In some examples, user equipment 110 will use the shortest available cycle.

[0056] In one or more embodiments, the network node 120 may allow and / or not allow enhanced inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 for inactive mode and / or extended discontinuous reception 330 for inactive mode in its cell(s). In some examples, the network node indicates 340 this to at least one other network node, such as the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140. For example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that both inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration 320 for inactive mode 330 and enhanced extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 360 ​​are allowed by broadcasting eDRX-AllowedInactive and enhanced-eDRX-AllowedInactive. As another example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 320 or enhanced extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 330 is not allowed in its cell(s) by not broadcasting eDRX-AllowedInactive and enhanced-eDRX-AllowedInactive. As another example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 320 but not enhanced extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 330 is allowed in its cell(s) by broadcasting eDRX-AllowedInactive instead of enhanced-eDRX-Allowed-Inactive. As another example, the network node 120 may indicate 340 that enhanced extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 330 but not extended discontinuous reception for inactive mode 320 is allowed in its cell(s) by broadcasting enhanced-eDRX-Allowed-Inactive. In some examples, information about whether extended discontinuous reception for core network and / or radio access network paging is allowed on a cell is provided separately in system information. In some examples, the indication 340 may be cell-specific or gNB-specific. In some examples, the indication 340 conveys the permissibility status 360 for both inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330.

[0057] In some examples, the network node 120 indicates that it has (a plurality of) cells that allow or do not allow inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330. Based on this information, in some examples, at least one other network node 130 / 140 will send a paging request to the network node 120 based on whether it allows extended discontinuous reception 320 for idle mode and / or extended enhanced discontinuous reception 330 for inactive mode. In some examples, if the network node 120 allows neither inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 nor inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 immediately sends a paging request for the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 (or close to the next paging occasion). In the example where neither inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 nor inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 is allowed, the user equipment 110 operates with an inactive discontinuous reception 380 period. In an example where the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 is allowed, the user equipment 110 operates in the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 regardless of whether the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 is allowed. In an example where the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 is allowed but the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 is not allowed, the user equipment 110 operates in the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320. In one example, if the network node 120 allows both the inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration 320 and the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception mode 330 360, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 sends a paging request of the user equipment 110 to the network node 120 only before a paging occasion calculated based on the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 period of the user equipment 110.

[0058] In one or more embodiments, the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140, when sending a paging request to a second network node that allows the inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration 320 and / or the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330, also sends a paging request to a network node 120 that does not allow both the inactive extended discontinuous reception configuration 320 and the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception mode 330 360. In other words, in one example, paging of the user equipment 110 can be requested twice (or more) from the network nodes 120 that do not allow the inactive extended discontinuous reception 320 and / or the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330 in their cell(s).

[0059] In one or more embodiments, if the network node 120 that does not allow extended discontinuous reception does not reach the user equipment 110 when paging, a paging failure is declared by the network (e.g., the core network node 130 and / or the anchor node 140). In some examples, the paging failure is declared only after the user equipment 110 is paged based on the longest extended discontinuous reception period (e.g., idle extended discontinuous reception 310, inactive extended discontinuous reception 320, and / or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception 330) with which the user equipment 110 is configured.

[0060] Now go to Figure 4 , an example flow diagram is shown for a process 400 performed by an apparatus embodied by, associated with, or otherwise in communication with the network node 120 (hereinafter generally referred to as being embodied by the network node 120) to receive a paging request from at least one other network node.

[0061] like Figure 4 As shown in block 410 of , the apparatus embodied by the network node 120 includes means for sending a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc., wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) includes at least: a base station, a radio access network (RAN) node or a gNB, and at least one other network node (130 / 140) including a core network, the core network also including at least one access mobility and management function (AMF). In one or more embodiments, the network configuration (340) further defines a permissibility state for an inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) or an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the network node configuration (340) defines one or more permissibility states associated with a plurality of cells.

[0062] like Figure 4As shown in block 420 of , the apparatus embodied by the network node 120 includes means for receiving a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140), such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc. In one or more embodiments, receiving the paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140) is based at least on the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) is not allowed, the network node (120) immediately receives the paging request. In one or more embodiments, when a second network node that allows idle extended discontinuous reception (310) receives the paging request, the network node (120) receives the paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) is allowed, the network node (120) receives a paging request only before a next paging occasion calculated based on an idle extended discontinuous reception (310) cycle of the user equipment (110). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is not allowed, the network node (120) receives the paging request immediately. In one or more embodiments, when a second network node (130 / 140) that allows inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) receives the paging request, the network node (120) receives the paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is allowed, the network node (120) receives a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140) only before a next paging occasion calculated based on the inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) cycle of the user equipment (110). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is not allowed, the network node (120) immediately receives a paging request. In one or more embodiments, when a second network node that allows inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) receives a paging request, the network node (120) receives a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed, the network node (120) receives a paging request only before a next paging opportunity calculated based on an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) cycle of the user equipment (110).

[0063] Now go to Figure 5 , an example flow diagram is shown for a process 500 performed by an apparatus embodied by, associated with, or otherwise in communication with (hereinafter generally referred to as embodied) a core network node 130 and / or an anchor network node 140 to send a paging request to a network node.

[0064] like Figure 5 As shown in block 510 of , the apparatus embodied by the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 includes means, such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc., for receiving a network node configuration (340) from the network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the core network node (130) includes at least an access mobility and management function (AMF), and the network node (120) includes at least: a base station, a radio access network (RAN) node, or a gNB.

[0065] like Figure 5As shown in block 520 of , the apparatus embodied by the core network node 130 and / or the anchor network node 140 includes components for sending a paging request to the network node (120), such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc. In one or more embodiments, sending the paging request to the network node (120) is based at least on the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) is not allowed, the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) immediately sends the paging request. In one or more embodiments, when sending the paging request to the second network node that allows idle extended discontinuous reception (310), the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) is also caused to send the paging request to the network node (120). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) is allowed, the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) sends a paging request only before the next paging opportunity calculated based on the idle extended discontinuous reception (310) cycle of the user equipment (110). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is not allowed, the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) immediately sends a paging request. In one or more embodiments, when sending a paging request to a second network node that allows inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) also sends a paging request to the network node (120). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is allowed, the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) sends a paging request only before the next paging opportunity calculated based on the inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) cycle of the user equipment (110). In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is not allowed, the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) immediately sends a paging request. In one or more embodiments, when sending a paging request to a second network node that allows inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) are also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed, the core network node (130) and / or the anchor network node (140) sends a paging request only before the next paging opportunity calculated based on the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) cycle of the user equipment (110).

[0066] Now go to Figure 6 , an example flow chart is shown for a process 600 performed by an apparatus embodied by, associated with, or otherwise in communication with user equipment 110 (hereinafter generally referred to as being embodied by user equipment 110) to receive a paging request based on a discontinuous reception cycle.

[0067] like Figure 6 As shown in box 610, the device embodied by the user equipment 110 includes components for determining (300) a user equipment configuration (300), such as a processing circuit system 220, a communication interface 260, etc., wherein the user equipment configuration (300) includes at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330).

[0068] like Figure 6 As shown in block 620 of , the apparatus embodied by the user equipment 110 includes means for determining (340) a network node configuration (340), such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc., wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the network node configuration (340) is specific to the network node (120). In one or more embodiments, the network node configuration (340) is specific to a cell.

[0069] like Figure 6As shown in block 630 of , the apparatus embodied by the user equipment 110 includes means for determining (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based at least on the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340), such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc. In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes idle extended discontinuous reception (310), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) is allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to idle extended discontinuous reception (310). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes idle extended discontinuous reception (310), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) is not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to discontinuous reception (370). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) but does not include inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive extended discontinuous reception (320). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) but does not include inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive discontinuous reception (380). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) but does not include inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception. In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) but does not include inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive discontinuous reception (380).In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) not being allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive discontinuous reception (380). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being not being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) not being allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive extended discontinuous reception (320). In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330).

[0070] like Figure 6 As shown in block 640 of , the apparatus embodied by the user equipment 110 includes means for receiving a paging request based on the discontinuous reception cycle (350), such as the processing circuit system 220, the communication interface 260, etc. In one or more embodiments, a paging failure is declared only after the user equipment (110) has been paged based on the longest extended discontinuous reception cycle (350) with which the user equipment (110) is configured.

[0071] Figures 4 to 6A flow chart of a method according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. It should be understood that each box in the flow chart and the combination of boxes in the flow chart can be implemented by various components, such as hardware, firmware, processors, circuit systems and / or other communication devices associated with the execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, the above one or more processes can be embodied by computer program instructions. In this regard, the computer program instructions embodying the above process can be stored by the memory device 240 of the device using the embodiment and executed by the processor 220. It will be understood that any such computer program instructions can be loaded into a computer or other programmable device (e.g., hardware) to produce a machine so that the resulting computer or other programmable device implements the functions specified in the flow chart box. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable memory, which can instruct the computer or other programmable device to operate in a specific manner so that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce a manufactured product, and the execution of the manufactured product implements the functions specified in the flow chart box. The computer program instructions can also be loaded into a computer or other programmable device so that a series of operations are performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process so that the instructions executed on the computer or other programmable device provide operations for implementing the functions specified in the flow chart box.

[0072] Therefore, the blocks in the flowchart support the combination of components for performing the specified functions and the combination of operations for performing the specified functions. It should also be understood that one or more blocks in the flowchart and the combination of blocks in the flowchart can be implemented by a computer system of dedicated hardware that performs the specified functions or a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions.

[0073] In one or more embodiments, a network node (120) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one memory stores instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the network node (120) to send a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The network node (120) is also caused to receive a paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0074] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) includes at least: a base station, a radio access network (RAN) node or gNB, and at least one other network node (130 / 140) including a core network, which also includes at least one access mobility and management function (AMF).

[0075] In one or more embodiments, receiving a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140) is based at least on a network node configuration (340).

[0076] In one or more embodiments, the network configuration (340) further defines at least one of the following: a permissibility state for inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330).

[0077] In one or more embodiments, the network node configuration (340) defines one or more admissibility states associated with the plurality of cells.

[0078] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) immediately receives the paging request when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) not being allowed.

[0079] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) is further caused to receive a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140) when a second network node that allows idle extended discontinuous reception (310) receives a paging request.

[0080] In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) being allowed, the network node (120) receives a paging request only before a next paging opportunity calculated based on an idle extended discontinuous reception (310) cycle of the user equipment (110).

[0081] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) immediately receives the paging request when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is not permitted.

[0082] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) is further caused to receive a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140) when a second network node (130 / 140) that enables inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) receives a paging request.

[0083] In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being allowed, the network node (120) receives a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140) only before a next paging opportunity calculated based on an inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) cycle of the user equipment (110).

[0084] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) immediately receives the paging request when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is not allowed.

[0085] In one or more embodiments, the network node (120) is further caused to receive a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140) when a second network node that enables inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) receives a paging request.

[0086] In one or more embodiments, when the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed, the network node (120) receives a paging request only before a next paging opportunity calculated based on an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) cycle of the user equipment (110).

[0087] In one or more embodiments, a core network node (130) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, which when executed by the processor causes the core network node (130) to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). The core network node (130) is also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0088] In one or more embodiments, an anchor network node (140) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, the at least one memory storing instructions, which when executed by the processor, causes the anchor network node (140) to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the anchor network node (140) is also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0089] In one or more embodiments, a user equipment (110) is provided, comprising at least one processor and at least one memory, wherein the at least one memory stores instructions, which when executed by the processor, cause the user equipment (110) to determine (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) includes at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based at least on the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to receive a paging request based on a discontinuous reception cycle (350).

[0090] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes idle extended discontinuous reception (310), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to idle extended discontinuous reception (310).

[0091] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes idle extended discontinuous reception (310), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception (310) not being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to discontinuous reception (370).

[0092] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) but does not include inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive extended discontinuous reception (320).

[0093] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) but does not include inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive discontinuous reception (380).

[0094] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) but does not include inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive enhanced discontinuous reception.

[0095] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) but does not include inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive discontinuous reception (380).

[0096] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) not allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive discontinuous reception (380).

[0097] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) being allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being not allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330).

[0098] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) not being allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) being allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive extended discontinuous reception (320).

[0099] In one or more embodiments, when the user equipment configuration (300) includes both (360) inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330), and when the network node configuration (340) defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330) is allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception (320) is allowed, the discontinuous reception period (350) is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330).

[0100] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method is provided, comprising: performing, by a network node (120), sending a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The computer-implemented method also includes receiving a paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0101] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method is provided, performed by a core network node (130), comprising receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0102] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method is provided, the method being performed by an anchor network node (140) and comprising receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). The computer-implemented method further comprises sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0103] In one or more embodiments, a computer-implemented method performed by a user equipment (110) is provided, the method comprising determining (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) comprises at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises determining (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises determining (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based on at least the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the computer-implemented method further comprises receiving a paging request based on the discontinuous reception period (350).

[0104] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions, which when executed by a network node causes the network node to send a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The network node (120) is also caused to receive a paging request from the at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0105] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions that, when executed by a core network node, cause the core network node to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). The core network node (130) is also caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0106] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions that, when executed by an anchor network node, cause the anchor network node to receive a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the anchor network node (140) is further caused to send a paging request to the network node (120).

[0107] In one or more embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising computer instructions, which when executed by a user equipment causes the user equipment to determine (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) includes at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissible state for at least one of the following items: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to determine (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based on at least the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) is also caused to receive a paging request based on a discontinuous reception cycle (350).

[0108] In one or more embodiments, a network node is provided that includes means for sending a network node configuration (340) to at least one other network node (130 / 140), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception (310). The network node (120) also includes means for receiving a paging request from at least one other network node (130 / 140).

[0109] In one or more embodiments, a core network node is provided, comprising means for receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced discontinuous reception (330). The core network node (130) further comprises means for sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0110] In one or more embodiments, an anchor network node is provided, comprising means for receiving a network node configuration (340) from a network node (120), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the anchor network node (140) further comprises means for sending a paging request to the network node (120).

[0111] In one or more embodiments, a user equipment is provided, comprising means for determining (300) a user equipment configuration (300), wherein the user equipment configuration (300) comprises at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) further comprises means for determining (340) a network node configuration (340), wherein the network node configuration (340) defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of the following: idle extended discontinuous reception (310), inactive extended discontinuous reception (320), or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception (330). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) further comprises means for determining (350) a discontinuous reception period (350) based on at least the user equipment configuration (300) and the network node configuration (340). In one or more embodiments, the user equipment (110) further comprises means for receiving a paging request based on the discontinuous reception period (350).

[0112] Many modifications and other embodiments described herein will come to mind to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0113] In addition, although the above description and the related drawings describe example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that different combinations of elements and / or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated, as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are used herein, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense, and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

1. A network node, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the network node to: sending a network node configuration to at least one other network node, wherein the network node configuration defines at least one permissibility state for at least one idle extended discontinuous reception; and A paging request is received from the at least one other network node.

2. The network node according to claim 1, wherein the network node comprises at least: A base station, a radio access network (RAN) node or gNB, and at least one other network node comprising a core network, the core network also including at least an access mobility and management function (AMF).

3. The network node of claim 1, wherein receiving the paging request from at least one other network node is based at least on the network node configuration.

4. The network node of claim 1, wherein the network node configuration defines one or more of the following: Permissibility status for inactive extended discontinuous reception or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception; one or more permissibility states associated with the plurality of cells; The at least one permissibility state is that the idle extended discontinuous reception is not permitted, and the network node immediately receives the paging request; The at least one permissibility state is that the idle extended discontinuous reception is permitted, and the network node receives the paging request only before the next paging opportunity calculated based on the idle extended discontinuous reception cycle of the user equipment; The at least one permissibility state is that the inactive extended discontinuous reception is not permitted, and the network node immediately receives the paging request; as well as The at least one permissibility state is that the inactive extended discontinuous reception is allowed, and the network node receives the paging request from the at least one other network node only before a next paging occasion calculated based on an inactive extended discontinuous reception cycle of the user equipment.

5. The network node according to claim 1, wherein the network node is further caused to: When the second network node that allows idle extended discontinuous reception receives the paging request, the paging request is received from the at least one other network node.

6. The network node according to claim 4, wherein the network node is further caused to: The paging request is received from the at least one other network node when the second network node enabling inactive extended discontinuous reception receives the paging request.

7. The network node of claim 4, wherein when the network node configuration defines the at least one permissibility state as the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception not being allowed, the network node immediately receives the paging request.

8. The network node according to claim 7, wherein the network node is further caused to: When the second network node enabling inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception receives the paging request, the paging request is received from the at least one other network node.

9. The network node according to claim 4, wherein when the network node configuration defines the at least one permissibility state as the inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception being allowed, the network node receives the paging request only before a next paging occasion calculated based on an inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception cycle of the user equipment.

10. A user equipment, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the user device to perform: determining a user equipment configuration, wherein the user equipment configuration comprises at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception, inactive extended discontinuous reception, or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception; determining a network node configuration, wherein the network node configuration defines at least one permissibility state for at least one of: idle extended discontinuous reception, inactive extended discontinuous reception, or inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception; Determining a discontinuous reception period based at least on the user equipment configuration and the network node configuration; as well as Based on the discontinuous reception cycle, a paging request is received.

11. The user equipment according to claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes idle extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception being allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to the idle extended discontinuous reception.

12. The user equipment according to claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes idle extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as idle extended discontinuous reception not being allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to the discontinuous reception.

13. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes inactive extended discontinuous reception but does not include inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception being allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive extended discontinuous reception.

14. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes inactive extended discontinuous reception but does not include inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive extended discontinuous reception not being allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive discontinuous reception.

15. The user equipment according to claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception but does not include inactive extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception being allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception.

16. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception but does not include inactive extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception not being allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive discontinuous reception.

17. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes both inactive extended discontinuous reception and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception not allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception not allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive discontinuous reception.

18. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes both inactive extended discontinuous reception and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception is allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception is not allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception.

19. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes both inactive extended discontinuous reception and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception not allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive extended discontinuous reception.

20. The user equipment of claim 10, wherein when the user equipment configuration includes both inactive extended discontinuous reception and inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception, and when the network node configuration defines the permissibility state as inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception allowed and inactive extended discontinuous reception allowed, the discontinuous reception cycle is set to inactive enhanced extended discontinuous reception.

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