Method and apparatus for UE mode switching for power saving in wireless communication

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. Methods and apparatus for UE mode switching operation for power saving in a wireless communication system. A method of a UE includes receiving configuration information related to a mode switching event including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event from a BS; switching the operating mode from a normal mode to a power saving mode by deactivating MR operation and monitoring the LP-WUS when a first mode switching event occurs; and switching the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR operation when the second mode switching event occurs.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 445,942, filed on February 15, 2023. The contents of the above patent document are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to wireless communication systems, and more particularly, to a user equipment (UE) mode switching operation for power saving in a wireless communication system. Background Art

[0003] 5G mobile communication technology defines a wide frequency band, enabling high transmission rates and new services. It can be implemented not only in "sub-6 GHz" frequency bands such as 3.5 GHz, but also in "above 6 GHz" frequency bands, known as millimeter waves, including 28 GHz and 39 GHz. Furthermore, consideration is being given to implementing 6G mobile communication technology (referred to as a "super 5G system") in the terahertz (THz) frequency band (e.g., the 95 GHz to 3 THz band) in order to achieve transmission rates fifty times faster than 5G mobile communication technology and ultra-low latency that is one-tenth that of 5G mobile communication technology.

[0004] At the start of the development of 5G mobile communication technology, in order to support services and meet performance requirements related to enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC), and massive machine-type communications (mMTC), there has been ongoing standardization on beamforming and massive MIMO for mitigating radio wave path loss in millimeter waves and increasing radio wave transmission range, dynamic operation of parameter sets (e.g., operating multiple subcarrier spacings) and time slot formats to support efficient utilization of millimeter wave resources, initial access technology to support multi-beam transmission and broadband, definition and operation of BWP (bandwidth part), new channel coding methods such as LDPC (low-density parity-check) codes for large-scale data transmission and polar codes for highly reliable transmission of control information, L2 preprocessing, and network slicing for providing dedicated networks tailored for specific services.

[0005] Currently, there are ongoing discussions on improvements and performance enhancements to initial 5G mobile communication technologies in view of the services to be supported by 5G mobile communication technologies, and there has been standardization of physical layers regarding technologies such as: V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) for assisting driving decisions of autonomous vehicles based on information on the position and status of vehicles transmitted by vehicles and for enhancing user convenience, NR-U (Unlicensed New Radio) for system operation that is designed to comply with various regulatory requirements within unlicensed frequency bands, NR UE energy saving, Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) as UE-satellite direct communication for providing coverage in areas where communication with terrestrial networks is not possible, and positioning.

[0006] In addition, in the air interface architecture / protocol area, standardization is already underway for technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), which supports new services through interconnection and integration with other industries; IAB (Integrated Access and Backhaul), which provides nodes for network service area expansion by integrating wireless backhaul links and access links; mobility enhancements including conditional handover and DAPS (Dual Active Protocol Stack) handover; and two-step random access (two-step RACH for NR) to simplify the random access procedure. In the system architecture / service area, standardization is also underway for the following: a 5G baseline architecture (e.g., a service-based architecture or service-based interface) for incorporating network function virtualization (NFV) and software-defined networking (SDN) technologies; and mobile edge computing (MEC) for receiving services based on UE location.

[0007] With the commercialization of 5G mobile communication systems, the already exponentially growing number of connected devices will be connected to communication networks, and accordingly, it is expected that enhanced functionality and performance of 5G mobile communication systems and the integrated operation of connected devices will become necessary. To this end, new research is being planned on extending reality (XR) to effectively support AR (augmented reality), VR (virtual reality), MR (mixed reality), etc., improving 5G performance and reducing complexity through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), supporting AI services, supporting metaverse services, and drone communications.

[0008] Furthermore, such development of 5G mobile communication systems will serve as the foundation for the development of not only new waveforms for providing terahertz band coverage for 6G mobile communication technology, multi-antenna transmission technologies such as full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, and massive antennas, metamaterial-based lenses and antennas for improving terahertz band signal coverage, high-dimensional spatial multiplexing technology using OAM (orbital angular momentum), and RIS (Reconfigurable Smart Surfaces), but also full-duplex technology for improving the frequency efficiency of 6G mobile communication technology and improving system networks, AI-based communication technology for leveraging satellites and AI (artificial intelligence) to achieve system optimization and internalize end-to-end AI support functions from the design stage, and next-generation distributed computing technology for implementing services at a complexity level that exceeds the operational capabilities of UEs by utilizing ultra-high-performance communication and computing resources.

[0009] Fifth-generation (5G) or New Radio (NR) mobile communications has been gathering momentum recently, driven by global activity from industry and academia regarding various candidate technologies. Candidate enablers for 5G / NR mobile communications include massive antenna technologies extending from traditional cellular frequency bands up to high frequencies to provide beamforming gain and support increased capacity, new waveforms (e.g., new radio access technologies (RATs)) to flexibly accommodate a variety of services / applications with varying requirements, and new multiple access schemes to support massive connectivity. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Technical issues

[0011] The present disclosure relates to wireless communication systems, and more particularly, to UE mode switching operations for power saving in wireless communication systems.

[0012] Technical Solution

[0013] In one embodiment, a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system is provided. The UE includes a transceiver configured to receive configuration information related to mode switching events, including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event, from a base station (BS). The UE also includes a processor operably coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to: when the first mode switching event occurs, switch an operating mode from a normal mode to a power saving mode by deactivating a master radio (MR) and monitoring a low power wake-up signal (LP-WUS); and when the second mode switching event occurs, switch the operating mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR.

[0014] Beneficial effects

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a UE mode switching operation for power saving in a wireless communication system is provided. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and its advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts:

[0017] Figure 1 An example of a wireless network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0018] Figure 2 An example of a gNB according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0019] Figure 3 An example of a UE according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0020] Figure 4 and Figure 5 shows examples of wireless transmit and receive paths according to the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 6 A flowchart of a UE method for switching operation from a normal mode to a power saving mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0022] Figure 7 A flowchart of a BS method for switching operation from a normal mode to a power saving mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 8 A flowchart illustrating a method for NW-controlled switching operation from a power saving mode to a normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating a UE method for switching operation from a power saving mode to a normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0025] Figure 10 A flowchart of a UE method for performing a mode switching operation to save power consumption in a wireless communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 11 is a block diagram of an internal configuration of a base station according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating an internal structure of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0029] The present disclosure relates to wireless communication systems, and more particularly, to UE mode switching operations for power saving in wireless communication systems.

[0030] In one embodiment, a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system is provided. The UE includes a transceiver configured to receive configuration information related to mode switching events from a base station (BS), the mode switching events including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event. The UE also includes a processor operatively coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to: when the first mode switching event occurs, switch the operating mode from a normal mode to a power saving mode by deactivating a master radio (MR) and monitoring a low power wake-up signal (LP-WUS); and when the second mode switching event occurs, switch the operating mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR.

[0031] In another embodiment, a method for a UE in a wireless communication system is provided. The method includes: receiving configuration information related to a mode switching event from a base station (BS), the mode switching event including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event; when the first mode switching event occurs, switching the operation mode from a normal mode to a power saving mode by deactivating a MR operation and monitoring a LP-WUS; and when the second mode switching event occurs, switching the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR operation.

[0032] In yet another embodiment, a base station (BS) in a wireless communication system is provided. The BS includes a processor configured to generate configuration information related to mode switching events, the mode switching events including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event. The BS also includes a transceiver operably coupled to the processor, the transceiver configured to send configuration information for switching an operating mode to a UE, wherein: when the first mode switching event occurs, the operating mode is switched from a normal mode to a power saving mode by deactivating a MR operation and monitoring a LP-WUS; and when the second mode switching event occurs, the operating mode is switched from a power saving mode to a normal mode by activating a MR operation.

[0033] Other technical features may be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, descriptions, and claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Before proceeding with the detailed description below, it may be advantageous to set forth the definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term "coupling" and its derivatives refer to any direct or indirect communication between two or more elements, regardless of whether these elements are in physical contact with each other. The terms "send," "receive," and "communicate," and their derivatives encompass both direct and indirect communication. The terms "include," "comprise," and their derivatives mean, but are not limited to. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning and / or. The phrase "associated with..." and its derivatives mean including, included within, interconnected with, including, contained within, connected to or connected with, coupled to or coupled with, communicable with, collaborate with, interlaced, juxtaposed, close to, bound to or bound with, having, having the nature of, having a relationship to or with, etc. The term "controller" means any device, system, or part thereof that controls at least one operation. Such a controller can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and software and / or firmware. The functions associated with any particular controller can be centralized or distributed, whether local or remote. The phrase "at least one of" when used with a list of items means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items can be used, and that only one item in the list may be required. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A, B, and C.

[0035] Furthermore, the various functions described below may be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of which is formed of computer-readable program code and embodied in a computer-readable medium. The terms "application" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, procedures, functions, objects, classes, instances, related data, or portions thereof, suitable for implementation in suitable computer-readable program code. The phrase "computer-readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer-readable medium" includes any type of medium that can be accessed by a computer, such as read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), hard drives, compact disks (CDs), digital video disks (DVDs), or any other type of memory. "Non-transitory" computer-readable media excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit transitory electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media includes media in which data can be permanently stored as well as media in which data can be stored and later rewritten, such as rewritable optical disks or erasable memory devices.

[0036] Definitions for certain other words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document. Those of ordinary skill in the art should understand that in many, if not most instances, such definitions apply to prior, as well as future uses of such defined words and phrases.

[0037] Discussed below Figures 1 to 12 The various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present disclosure in this patent document are illustrative only and should not be interpreted in any way as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged system or device.

[0038] To meet the increased demand for wireless data services since the deployment of 4G communication systems and to enable a variety of vertical applications, 5G / NR communication systems have been developed and are currently being deployed. 5G / NR communication systems are considered to be implemented in higher frequency (millimeter wave) bands (e.g., 28 GHz or 60 GHz bands) to achieve higher data rates, or in lower frequency bands (e.g., 6 GHz) to achieve robust coverage and mobility support. To reduce radio wave propagation losses and increase transmission distances, beamforming, massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), full-dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, and massive antenna technologies are being discussed in 5G / NR communication systems.

[0039] Furthermore, in 5G / NR communication systems, system network improvements are being developed based on advanced small cells, cloud radio access network (RAN) ultra-dense networks, device-to-device (D2D) communication, wireless backhaul, mobile networks, cooperative communications, coordinated multi-point (CoMP), and receiver-side interference cancellation.

[0040] The discussion of 5G systems and their associated frequency bands is provided for reference, as certain embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in 5G systems. However, the present disclosure is not limited to 5G systems or their associated frequency bands, and embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with any frequency band. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may also be applied to the deployment of 5G communication systems, 6G, or even later versions that may utilize terahertz (THz) frequency bands.

[0041] The following documents are hereby incorporated by reference into this disclosure as if fully set forth herein: “3GPP, TS 38.300 v17.3.0, 5G; NR; NR and NG-RAN Overall Description; Stage 2”; “3GPP, TS 38.331 v17.3.0, 5G; NR; Radio Resource Control (RRC); Protocol specification”; and “3GPP, TS 38.304 v17.3.0, NR; User Equipment (UE) procedures in Idle mode and RRC Inactive state”.

[0042] The following Figure 1-3 Various embodiments are described that are implemented in a wireless communication system and utilizing Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) or Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) communication techniques. Figure 1-3 The description is not meant to imply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in which different embodiments may be implemented. Different embodiments of the disclosure may be implemented in any suitably arranged communications system.

[0043] Figure 1 An example wireless network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 The embodiment of the wireless network shown is for illustration only. Other embodiments of the wireless network 100 may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the wireless network includes gNB 101 (e.g., base station, BS), gNB 102, and gNB 103. gNB 101 communicates with gNB 102 and gNB 103. gNB 101 also communicates with at least one network 130, such as the Internet, a proprietary Internet Protocol (IP) network, or other data network.

[0045] gNB 102 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 for a first plurality of user equipment (UEs) within gNB 102's coverage area 120. The first plurality of UEs includes UE 111, which may be located in a small business; UE 112, which may be located in an enterprise; UE 113, which may be a WiFi hotspot; UE 114, which may be located in a first residence; UE 115, which may be located in a second residence; and UE 116, which may be a mobile device such as a cellular phone, a wireless laptop, a wireless PDA, etc. gNB 103 provides wireless broadband access to network 130 for a second plurality of UEs within gNB 103's coverage area 125. The second plurality of UEs includes UE 115 and UE 116. In some embodiments, one or more of gNBs 101-103 may communicate with each other and with UEs 111-116 using 5G / NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A), WiMAX, WiFi, or other wireless communication technologies.

[0046] Depending on the network type, the term "base station" or "BS" can refer to any component (or collection of components) configured to provide wireless access to a network, such as a transmission point (TP), a transmission-reception point (TRP), an enhanced base station (eNodeB or eNB), a 5G / NR base station (gNB), a macrocell, a femtocell, a WiFi access point (AP), or other wireless-enabled device. A base station can provide wireless access according to one or more wireless communication protocols (e.g., 5G / NR Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) NR, Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Wi-Fi 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac, etc.). For convenience, the terms "BS" and "TRP" are used interchangeably in this patent document to refer to a network infrastructure component that provides wireless access to a remote terminal. Furthermore, depending on the network type, the term "user equipment" or "UE" can refer to any component, such as a "mobile station," "subscriber station," "remote terminal," "wireless terminal," "reception point," or "user device." For convenience, the terms "user equipment" and "UE" are used in this patent document to refer to a remote wireless device that wirelessly accesses a BS, whether the UE is a mobile device (such as a mobile phone or smartphone) or what is generally considered a stationary device (such as a desktop computer or vending machine).

[0047] Dashed lines illustrate the approximate extents of coverage areas 120 and 125, which are shown as approximately circular for purposes of illustration and explanation only. It should be clearly understood that coverage areas associated with gNBs, such as coverage areas 120 and 125, may have other shapes, including irregular shapes, depending on the configuration of the gNB and variations in the radio environment associated with natural and man-made obstacles.

[0048] As described in more detail below, one or more of the UEs 111-116 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for UE mode switching operation to conserve power in a wireless communication system. In certain embodiments, one or more of the gNBs 101-103 include circuitry, programming, or a combination thereof for supporting UE mode switching operation to conserve power in a wireless communication system.

[0049] although Figure 1 An example of a wireless network is shown, but Figure 1 Various changes may be made. For example, the wireless network may include any number of gNBs and any number of UEs in any suitable arrangement. Furthermore, gNB 101 may communicate directly with any number of UEs and provide those UEs with wireless broadband access to network 130. Similarly, each gNB 102-103 may communicate directly with network 130 and provide UEs with direct wireless broadband access to network 130. Furthermore, gNBs 101, 102, and / or 103 may provide access to other or additional external networks, such as an external telephone network or other type of data network.

[0050] Figure 2 An example gNB 102 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 The embodiment of the gNB 102 shown in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only, and Figure 1 gNBs 101 and 103 may have the same or similar configurations. However, gNBs have a variety of configurations, and Figure 2 The scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of a gNB.

[0051] like Figure 2 As shown, gNB 102 includes multiple antennas 205a-205n, multiple transceivers 210a-210n, a controller / processor 225, memory 230, and a backhaul or network interface 235.

[0052] Transceivers 210a-210n receive incoming RF signals from antennas 205a-205n, such as signals transmitted by UEs in network 100. Transceivers 210a-210n downconvert the incoming RF signals to generate IF or baseband signals. The IF or baseband signals are processed by receive (RX) processing circuitry within transceivers 210a-210n and / or controller / processor 225, which filters, decodes, and / or digitizes the baseband or IF signals to generate processed baseband signals. Controller / processor 225 may further process the baseband signals.

[0053] Transmit (TX) processing circuitry in the transceivers 210a-210n and / or the controller / processor 225 receives analog or digital data (such as voice data, web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the controller / processor 225. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate processed baseband or IF signals. The transceivers 210a-210n upconvert the baseband or IF signals into RF signals that are transmitted via the antennas 205a-205n.

[0054] The controller / processor 225 may include one or more processors or other processing devices that control the overall operation of the gNB 102. For example, the controller / processor 225 may control the reception of uplink (UL) channel signals and the transmission of downlink (DL) channel signals by the transceivers 210a-210n in accordance with well-known principles. The controller / processor 225 may also support additional functionality, such as more advanced wireless communication functions. For example, the controller / processor 225 may support beamforming or directional routing operations, in which outgoing / incoming signals from / to the multiple antennas 205a-205n are weighted differently to effectively steer the outgoing signals in a desired direction. The controller / processor 225 may support any of a variety of other functions within the gNB 102.

[0055] The controller / processor 225 is also capable of running programs and other processes, such as an OS, that reside in the memory 230. The controller / processor 225 can move data into or out of the memory 230 as required by the running processes. The controller / processor 225 is also capable of running programs and other processes that reside in the memory 230, such as processes that support UE mode switching operations for power conservation in wireless communication systems.

[0056] The controller / processor 225 is also coupled to a backhaul or network interface 235. The backhaul or network interface 235 allows the gNB 102 to communicate with other devices or systems via a backhaul connection or over a network. The interface 235 can support communication over any suitable wired or wireless connection. For example, when the gNB 102 is implemented as part of a cellular communication system (such as one supporting 5G / NR, LTE, or LTE-A), the interface 235 can allow the gNB 102 to communicate with other gNBs via a wired or wireless backhaul connection. When the gNB 102 is implemented as an access point, the interface 235 can allow the gNB 102 to communicate over a wired or wireless local area network or with a larger network (such as the Internet) via a wired or wireless connection. The interface 235 includes any suitable structure that supports communication over a wired or wireless connection, such as Ethernet or a transceiver.

[0057] Memory 230 is coupled to controller / processor 225. A portion of memory 230 may include RAM, and another portion of memory 230 may include flash memory or other ROM.

[0058] although Figure 2 An example of a gNB 102 is shown, but the Figure 2 For example, gNB 102 may include any number of Figure 2 Each component shown in . In addition, Figure 2 The various components in may be combined, further subdivided, or omitted, and additional components may be added according to specific needs.

[0059] Figure 3 An example UE 116 is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 The embodiment of UE 116 shown in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only, and Figure 1 UEs 111-115 may have the same or similar configurations. However, UEs have a variety of configurations, and Figure 3 The scope of this disclosure is not limited to any particular implementation of a UE.

[0060] like Figure 3 As shown, UE 116 includes antenna 305, transceiver 310, and microphone 320. UE 116 also includes speaker 330, processor 340, input / output (I / O) interface (IF) 345, input 350, display 355, and memory 360. Memory 360 includes operating system (OS) 361 and one or more applications 362.

[0061] Transceiver 310 receives incoming RF signals from antenna 305, transmitted by a gNB of network 100. Transceiver 310 downconverts the incoming RF signals to generate an intermediate frequency (IF) or baseband signal. The IF or baseband signal is processed by RX processing circuitry within transceiver 310 and / or processor 340, which filters, decodes, and / or digitizes the baseband or IF signal to generate a processed baseband signal. The RX processing circuitry transmits the processed baseband signal to speaker 330 (e.g., for voice data) or is processed by processor 340 (e.g., for web browsing data).

[0062] The TX processing circuitry in the transceiver 310 and / or processor 340 receives analog or digital voice data from the microphone 320, or other outgoing baseband data (such as web data, email, or interactive video game data) from the processor 340. The TX processing circuitry encodes, multiplexes, and / or digitizes the outgoing baseband data to generate a processed baseband or IF signal. The transceiver 310 up-converts the baseband or IF signal into an RF signal that is transmitted via the antenna 305.

[0063] The processor 340 may include one or more processors or other processing devices and executes the OS 361 stored in the memory 360 to control the overall operation of the UE 116. For example, the processor 340 may control the transceiver 310 to receive DL channel signals and transmit UL channel signals according to well-known principles. In some embodiments, the processor 340 includes at least one microprocessor or microcontroller.

[0064] Processor 340 is also capable of running other processes and programs residing in memory 360, such as processes for UE mode switching operations for power conservation in wireless communication systems. Processor 340 can move data into or out of memory 360 as needed by the running processes. In some embodiments, processor 340 is configured to run applications 362 based on OS 361 or in response to signals received from a gNB or operator. Processor 340 is also coupled to I / O interface 345, which provides UE 116 with the ability to connect to other devices, such as laptops and handheld computers. I / O interface 345 serves as a communication path between these accessories and processor 340.

[0065] The processor 340 is also coupled to an input 350 including, for example, a touch screen, a keyboard, etc., and a display 355. An operator of the UE 116 can use the input 350 to enter data into the UE 116. The display 355 can be a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, or other display capable of presenting text and / or at least limited graphics, such as from a website.

[0066] Memory 360 is coupled to processor 340. A portion of memory 360 may include random access memory (RAM), and another portion of memory 360 may include flash memory or other read-only memory (ROM).

[0067] although Figure 3 An example of a UE 116 is shown, but the Figure 3 Make various changes. For example, you can combine, further subdivide or omit Figure 3 The various components in the , and additional components can be added as needed. As a specific example, the processor 340 can be divided into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs). In another example, the transceiver 310 can include any number of transceivers and signal processing chains and can be connected to any number of antennas. In addition, although Figure 3 The UE 116 is shown configured as a mobile phone or smartphone, but the UE may be configured to operate as other types of mobile or stationary devices.

[0068] Figure 4 and Figure 5 Example wireless transmit and receive paths according to the present disclosure are shown. In the following description, transmit path 400 may be described as being implemented in a gNB (such as gNB 102), while receive path 500 may be described as being implemented in a UE (such as UE 116). However, it is understood that receive path 500 may be implemented in a gNB and transmit path 400 may be implemented in a UE. In some embodiments, receive path 500 is configured to support UE mode switching operation to save power in a wireless communication system.

[0069] like Figure 4 The transmit path 400 shown includes a channel coding and modulation block 405, a serial to parallel (S to P) block 410, an inverse fast Fourier transform (IFFT) block of size N 415, a parallel to serial (P to S) block 420, an add cyclic prefix block 425, and an upconverter (UC) 430. Figure 5 The illustrated receive path 500 includes a downconverter (DC) 555 , a remove cyclic prefix block 560 , a serial to parallel (S to P) block 565 , a size-N fast Fourier transform (FFT) block 570 , a parallel to serial (P to S) block 575 , and a channel decoding and demodulation block 580 .

[0070] like Figure 4As shown, channel coding and modulation block 405 receives a set of information bits, applies coding (such as low-density parity check (LDPC) coding), and modulates the input bits (such as with quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)) to generate a sequence of frequency-domain modulation symbols.

[0071] Serial-to-parallel block 410 converts (e.g., demultiplexes) the serial modulation symbols into parallel data to generate N parallel symbol streams, where N is the IFFT / FFT size used in gNB 102 and UE 116. Size-N IFFT block 415 performs an IFFT operation on the N parallel symbol streams to generate a time-domain output signal. Parallel-to-serial block 420 converts (e.g., multiplexes) the parallel time-domain output symbols from Size-N IFFT block 415 to generate a serial time-domain signal. Add cyclic prefix block 425 inserts a cyclic prefix into the time-domain signal. Upconverter 430 modulates (e.g., upconverts) the output of Add cyclic prefix block 425 to RF frequency for transmission via a wireless channel. The signal may also be filtered at baseband before conversion to RF frequency.

[0072] The RF signal transmitted from gNB 102 reaches UE 116 after passing through the wireless channel, and operations opposite to those at gNB 102 are performed at UE 116.

[0073] like Figure 5 As shown, downconverter 555 downconverts the received signal to baseband frequency, and cyclic prefix removal block 560 removes the cyclic prefix to generate a serial time-domain baseband signal. Serial-to-parallel block 565 converts the time-domain baseband signal into parallel time-domain signals. Size-N FFT block 570 performs an FFT algorithm to generate N parallel frequency-domain signals. Parallel-to-serial block 575 converts the parallel frequency-domain signals into a sequence of modulated data symbols. Channel decoding and demodulation block 580 demodulates and decodes the modulated symbols to recover the original input data stream.

[0074] Each of gNBs 101-103 may implement Figure 4 The transmission path 400 shown is similar to the transmission to UEs 111-116 in the downlink and can be implemented as follows Figure 5 Receive path 500 is shown, which is similar to receiving in the uplink from UEs 111-116. Similarly, each of UEs 111-116 may implement transmit path 400 for transmitting in the uplink to gNBs 101-103 and may implement receive path 500 for receiving in the downlink from gNBs 101-103.

[0075] Figure 4 and Figure 5Each component in may be implemented using hardware alone or a combination of hardware and software / firmware. As a specific example, Figure 4 and Figure 5 At least some components in can be implemented in software, while other components can be implemented by configurable hardware or a mixture of software and configurable hardware. For example, FFT block 570 and IFFT block 415 can be implemented as configurable software algorithms, where the value of size N can be modified according to the implementation.

[0076] Furthermore, although described as using FFT and IFFT, this is by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Other types of transforms may be used, such as discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and inverse discrete Fourier transform (IDFT) functions. It will be appreciated that for DFT and IDFT functions, the value of the variable N may be any integer (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.), while for FFT and IFFT functions, the value of the variable N may be any integer that is a power of two (e.g., 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, etc.).

[0077] although Figure 4 and Figure 5 Examples of wireless transmit and receive paths are shown, but Figure 4 and Figure 5 Make various changes. For example, you can combine, further subdivide or omit Figure 4 and Figure 5 Various components in the , and additional components can be added according to specific needs. In addition, Figure 4 and Figure 5 It is intended to illustrate examples of the types of transmit and receive paths that may be used in a wireless network. Any other suitable architecture may be used to support wireless communications in a wireless network.

[0078] 3GPP has developed technical specifications and standards to define the new 5G radio access technology, known as 5G New Radio (NR). UE energy efficiency is crucial for 5G system design, especially for small form factor devices without a continuous energy source, such as IoT devices, industrial sensors, controllers, and wearables. To save UE power consumption, extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) with long wake-up periods is expected to be used. However, a long eDRX cycle cannot meet the low latency requirements of latency-critical use cases. On the other hand, even when there is no signaling or data traffic, the UE needs to wake up periodically every eDRX cycle, which can waste power. It is desirable for the UE to wake up only when triggered, with short latency. To this end, a wake-up signal (WUS) will be designed to trigger the main radio (MR), and a separate receiver, the low-power radio (LR), is expected to be used with the ability to monitor the wake-up signal with ultra-low power consumption. The main radio operates for data transmission and reception and can be turned off or placed in deep sleep unless the main radio is turned on.

[0079] A UE can monitor for signals with low receive power (e.g., a lower power wake-up signal (LP WUS)) in a power saving mode (e.g., operating with a lower power radio) while the primary radio is turned off. However, a UE operating with LR typically supports only limited functionality and operations, such as receiving LP WUS and performing neighbor cell measurements for LP WUS. To perform other operations, such as acquiring system information and receiving paging messages, the UE needs to enable MR to operate in normal mode. Therefore, it is necessary to specify the mode switching between power saving mode (e.g., operating with LR) and normal mode (e.g., operating with MR) and the corresponding procedures.

[0080] In the present disclosure, a mode switching procedure for power saving is provided. A mode switching procedure involving RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED states is specified.

[0081] In this disclosure, power-saving mode may refer to operating with the LR and / or deactivating the MR; normal mode may refer to operating with the MR. Switching to normal mode may refer to turning on the MR; switching to power-saving mode may refer to turning on the LR and / or deactivating the MR. The term LP WUS may refer to a type of signal received by a low-power receiver with low power and may be replaced by equivalent terms such as a low-power synchronization signal (LP SS).

[0082] A UE in the RRC_IDLE state may operate in a power saving mode. In one embodiment, the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE state may be characterized by the UE performing one or more of the following operations based on the LP WUS: (1) monitoring the LP WUS of the camped cell; (2) UE-controlled mobility based on the LP WUS; (3) neighbor cell measurements based on the LP WUS; (4) cell reselection based on the LP WUS; (5) logging of available measurement results of the LP WUS (if configured); and (6) idle measurements of the low power signal LP_WUS (if configured).

[0083] A UE in the RRC_INACTIVE state may operate in a power saving mode. In one embodiment, the power saving mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state may be characterized by the UE performing one or more of the following operations based on the LP WUS: (1) monitoring the LP WUS of the camped cell; (2) UE-controlled mobility based on the LP WUS; (3) storing the UE inactive AS context; (4) neighbor cell measurements based on the LP WUS; (5) cell reselection based on the LP WUS; (6) logging of available measurement results of the LP WUS (if configured); and (7) idle measurements of the LP WUS (if configured).

[0084] Figure 6 FIG. 6 is a flow chart illustrating a UE method 600 for switching operation from a normal mode to a power saving mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The UE method 600 may be performed by a UE (e.g., Figure 1 111-116) are performed as shown. Figure 6 The embodiment of the UE method 600 shown in FIGURE 6 is for illustration only. Figure 6 One or more components shown in the drawings may be implemented in dedicated circuits configured to perform the functions described, or one or more components may be implemented by one or more processors executing instructions to perform the functions described.

[0085] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a flow chart illustrating a BS method 700 for switching operation from a normal mode to a power saving mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The BS method 700 may be performed by a BS (e.g., Figure 1 101-103) shown in the execution. Figure 7 The illustrated embodiment of BS method 700 is for illustration only. Figure 7 One or more components shown in the drawings may be implemented in dedicated circuits configured to perform the functions described, or one or more components may be implemented by one or more processors executing instructions to perform the functions described.

[0086] If the current serving cell supports LP WUS, the UE supporting the power saving mode can switch the operation mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode to save power consumption. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, switching to the power saving mode can be configured or dynamically indicated by the NW or UE. Figure 6 The UE behavior for switching the operation mode from normal mode to power saving mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state is shown. Figure 7 The BS behavior for switching the operation mode from normal mode to power saving mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state is shown.

[0087] like Figure 6 As shown, the UE may receive a power saving mode configuration and / or a mode switching configuration from a serving cell, which may be included in an SI and / or an RRC message (e.g., RRCReconfiguration, RRCRelease) (602). The configuration may include an explicit indication that the current serving cell supports LP WUS; or, the support of LP WUS may be implicitly indicated by including the power saving mode configuration and / or the mode switching configuration.

[0088] The power saving mode configuration may include a group ID and / or temporary ID assigned to the UE. The group ID indicates the group to which the UE belongs. The group ID and / or temporary ID may be carried by the LP WUS and used to identify the UE's wake-up indication. The mode switching configuration may include a switching periodicity. For example, the periodicity for switching from normal mode to power saving mode may be configured. In another example, the periodicity for switching from power saving mode to normal mode may be configured. The mode switching configuration may also include parameters for event-triggered switching (e.g., normal mode to power saving mode, power saving mode to normal mode). Event-triggered mode switching may be predefined or configured.

[0089] In one example, the switching periodicity is X ms starting from SFN 0. For each even cycle or each A cycle, the UE enters power saving mode. For each odd cycle or each B cycle, the UE enters normal mode. X, and / or A, and / or B can be configurable numbers.

[0090] In one example, the switching periodicity is X ms starting from SFN 0. At the beginning of each period, the UE enters power saving mode for Y ms. X and Y can be configurable or fixed numbers.

[0091] When the RRC connection release message is received, the UE transitions to the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state and performs the process specified in the 3GPP standard specification when the RRC RELEASE message is received (604). The RRC connection release message may include an information field indicating that the UE is allowed to operate in the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state. If it is indicated that the power saving mode is allowed, the UE may switch to the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state (if supported); otherwise, the UE is not allowed to switch to the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state. In another example, the RRC connection release message may include an information field associated with the redirected carrier frequency, which indicates that LP WUS is supported in the redirected frequency. If it is indicated that LP WUS is supported, the UE may switch to the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state (if supported); otherwise, the UE is not allowed to switch to the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state.

[0092] In another example, a frequency list supporting LP WUS may be included in the RRC release message. If LP WUS is supported for a certain frequency, the UE may switch the operating mode to the power saving mode on the frequency in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state; otherwise, the UE is not allowed to switch the operating mode to the power saving mode on the frequency in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state.

[0093] like Figure 6 As shown, in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE may switch the mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode (606). In one example, if the periodicity of switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is configured, the switching operation may be performed periodically.

[0094] In one example, the switching periodicity is X ms starting from SFN 0. For each even cycle or each A cycle, the UE enters power saving mode. For each odd cycle or each B cycle, the UE enters normal mode. X, and / or A, and / or B can be configurable numbers.

[0095] In one example, the switching periodicity is X ms starting from SFN 0. At the beginning of each period, the UE enters power saving mode for Y ms. X and Y can be configurable or fixed numbers.

[0096] In another example (606), the UE may receive a mode switch indication carried in a PDCCH (e.g., included in a short message or PEI). The UE monitors the PDCCH in a PDCCH monitoring occasion for paging as specified in the 3GPP standard specification. If the UE receives the mode switch indication (e.g., included in a short message or PEI) in a PDCCH monitoring occasion of the UE, the UE switches the mode to the power saving mode (if supported).

[0097] In yet another example (606), the UE may receive a mode switch indication carried in a PDSCH (e.g., included in a paging message). The mode switch indication may be indicated in the paging message as a paging cause, such as power saving. The UE monitors the PDCCH during a PDCCH monitoring opportunity for paging and receives the paging message sent in the PDSCH according to the scheduling information carried by the PDCCH as specified in the 3GPP standard specifications.

[0098] If the UE is in the RRC_IDLE state, the paging message includes a mode switching indication, and if the UE-Identity included in the paging message matches the UE identity assigned by the upper layer, the UE sends an indication to the lower layer to switch the operation mode to the power saving mode (if supported). If the UE is in the RRC_INACTIVE state, the paging message includes a mode switching indication, and if the UE-Identity included in the paging message matches the UE's stored full I-RNTI, the UE sends an indication to the lower layer to switch the operation mode to the power saving mode (if supported).

[0099] Alternatively, if in the RRC_INACTIVE state, a mode switch indication is included in the paging message, and if the ue-Identity included in the paging message matches the stored full I-RNTI of the UE, the UE may initiate an RRC connection resumption procedure and send an RRCResumeRequest message with a resumption cause (e.g., set for power saving or mode switching), and then upon receiving the RRCRelease message, the UE transitions to the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state and operates in power saving mode.

[0100] In another example, if in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE receives a mode switch indication without UE-identity in a paging message, the UE sends an indication to lower layers and switches the operation mode to power saving mode (if supported).

[0101] In another example (606), in the RRC_INACTIVE state, the UE may initiate a power saving mode switch by notifying the NW. The power saving mode switch notification may be sent in an RRCResumeRequest message. When the UE determines to switch the operating mode to the power saving mode, the UE applies the RRC connection resumption procedure and sends an RRCResumeRequest message with a resumption cause (e.g., set to power saving or mode switching), and then upon receiving the RRCRelease message, the UE transitions to the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state and operates in the power saving mode.

[0102] In one example, when the UE is in the RRC_CONNECTED state or the RRC_INACTIVE state, the UE may indicate to the NW via an RRC message its interest in switching the operating mode to the power saving mode. When the UE receives an RRCRelease message including a mode switching indication, the UE switches the operating mode to the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to the indication.

[0103] In the disclosed embodiment, after switching to the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE performs operations specified for the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, eg, as described above.

[0104] Figure 8 FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing a method 800 for NW-controlled switching operation from power saving mode to normal mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method 800 may be performed by a BS (e.g., Figure 1 101-103) shown in the execution. Figure 8 The embodiment of method 800 shown in FIGURE 8 is for illustration only. Figure 8 One or more components shown in the drawings may be implemented in dedicated circuits configured to perform the functions described, or one or more components may be implemented by one or more processors executing instructions to perform the functions described.

[0105] In the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE in power saving mode may switch the operation mode to the normal mode controlled by the NW due to different reasons. Figure 8As shown, a UE in power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state receives lower layer signaling (e.g., LP WUS) from a serving cell. This lower layer signaling carries a wakeup indication with a wakeup cause (e.g., system information modification, public warning system (PWS) notification, paging). The UE then switches its operating mode to normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED state and, if necessary, performs downlink synchronization (e.g., by receiving the serving cell's SSB). The UE performs the corresponding operation indicated by the wakeup cause.

[0106] like Figure 8 As shown, in one example, a switch operation from power saving mode to normal mode can be triggered by SI modification. Upon receiving a wakeup indication with the wakeup cause "SI modification" from lower layers in power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE switches its operating mode to normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state (e.g., by turning on MR), performs downlink synchronization if necessary (e.g., by receiving the SSB of the serving cell), and applies the SI acquisition procedure as specified in the 3GPP standard specifications. The wakeup cause "SI modification" can be indicated by a bit carried in the LP WUS.

[0107] like Figure 8As shown in FIG, in another example, a switching operation from the power saving mode to the normal mode may be triggered by a PWS notification. Upon receiving a wakeup indication with a wakeup cause of "PWS notification" from a lower layer in the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state (for example, by turning on MR), and performs downlink synchronization if necessary (for example, receiving the SSB of the serving cell). Next, the UE acquires the SIB containing the PWS notification (including ETWS and / or CMAS notification), for example, if the UE is ETWS capable or CMAS capable: (1) if the UE is provided with searchSpaceSIB1 and searchSpaceOtherSystemInformation on the active BWP or initial BWP, then re-acquire SIB1 immediately; otherwise, apply the MIB and SIB1 acquisition procedures; (2) if the UE is ETWS capable and the si-SchedulingInfo in SIB1 includes the scheduling information of SIB6, then immediately acquire SIB6; (3) if the UE is ETWS capable and the si-SchedulingInfo in SIB1 includes the scheduling information of SIB7, then immediately acquire SIB7; and (4) if the UE is CMAS capable and the si-SchedulingInfo in SIB1 includes the scheduling information of SIB8, then immediately acquire SIB8. The wakeup cause "PWS notification" can be indicated by a bit carried by the LP WUS.

[0108] like Figure 8 As shown, in another example, a switching operation from power saving mode to normal mode can be triggered by paging (e.g., RAN paging, CN paging). Upon receiving a wakeup indication with the wakeup cause "paging" from lower layers while in power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE switches its operating mode to normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state (e.g., by enabling MR) and, if necessary, performs downlink synchronization (e.g., receiving the serving cell's SSB). Once operating in normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE may begin monitoring for Paging Early Indication (PEI) if PEI is supported. The UE determines the PEI timing as specified in the 3GPP standard specifications. When the UE detects PEI and the PEI indicates that the UE needs to monitor the associated paging occasion (PO), the UE monitors the associated PO. If the UE cannot monitor PEI, the UE directly monitors the paging occasion.

[0109] To monitor PO, if the UE has stored the parameters required to determine the paging occasion in the time and frequency domains (e.g., Ns, nAndPagingFrameOffset, nrofPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionPerSSB-InPO, default / extended DRX cycle length, nAndPagingFrameOffset, firstPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionOfPO, pagingSearchSpace, firstPDCCH-MonitoringOccasionOfPO), the UE applies the stored parameters to determine and monitor its first paging occasion after handover. Otherwise (e.g., any relevant parameters are not available / stored / configured), the UE obtains system information (e.g., SIB1) and applies the parameters signaled in the system information (e.g., SIB1) to determine its first paging occasion.

[0110] For NW-controlled switching to normal mode, the UE can be controlled to wake up in a group or UE-specific manner, with or without a wake-up cause indication (e.g., SI modification, PWS notification, or paging). In one embodiment, the UE may be configured with a group ID or temporary ID (e.g., RNTI) before entering the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state (e.g., in power saving mode configuration). Upon receiving a wake-up indication indicating the UE's group ID or temporary ID (e.g., carried by an LP WU) in power saving mode while in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE switches its operating mode to normal mode while in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE / Connected state. If a wake-up cause is indicated, the UE performs the corresponding operation for the wake-up cause.

[0111] In another embodiment, in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE in the power saving mode may switch the operation mode to the normal mode initiated by the UE due to different reasons.

[0112] Figure 9 FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a UE method 900 for switching operation from a power saving mode to a normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The UE method 900 may be performed by a UE (e.g., Figure 1 111-116) are performed as shown. Figure 9 The embodiment of UE method 900 shown in FIGURE 9 is for illustration only. Figure 9One or more components shown in the drawings may be implemented in dedicated circuits configured to perform the functions described, or one or more components may be implemented by one or more processors executing instructions to perform the functions described.

[0113] like Figure 9 As shown, a UE in power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state receives lower layer signaling (e.g., LP WUS) from a serving cell. The UE can switch its operating mode to normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, or switch to the RRC_CONNECTED state autonomously triggered by a specific cause indicated by lower layer signaling (e.g., LP WUS), including periodic switching to normal mode, SI acquisition, cell reselection, RNA update, multicast / broadcast service (MBS), small data transmission (SDT), RRC connection establishment request, and RRC recovery request. The UE can enable MR, perform downlink synchronization if necessary (e.g., by receiving the serving cell's SSB), and / or perform a random access procedure if necessary, and perform corresponding operations in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED state.

[0114] like Figure 9 As shown, in one example, the UE may periodically switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state. The periodicity of the switching may be predefined or configured by the NW, or depend on the implementation of the UE.

[0115] In one example, the switching periodicity is X ms starting from SFN 0. For each even cycle or each A cycle, the UE enters power saving mode. For each odd cycle or each B cycle, the UE enters normal mode. X, and / or A, and / or B can be configurable numbers.

[0116] In one example, the switching periodicity is X ms starting from SFN 0. At the beginning of each period, the UE enters power saving mode for Y ms. X and Y can be configurable or fixed numbers.

[0117] like Figure 9 As shown, in one example, the UE can switch the operating mode from power saving mode to normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state based on the switching indication carried by the LP WUS. The UE can turn on MR, perform downlink synchronization if necessary (for example, by receiving the SSB of the serving cell), and operate in normal mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE.

[0118] like Figure 9As shown, in one example, if the validity of any SIB expires, the UE may switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode for SI acquisition in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state. For example, after a certain duration since the SIB was successfully confirmed as valid, the UE may consider the SIB to be no longer valid, or the UE needs to delete any stored version of the SIB and re-acquire the SIB, where the duration may be predefined or configured. When the UE determines that the SIB is no longer valid or when the UE deletes any stored version of the SIB, if the UE is in the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, performs downlink synchronization if necessary (e.g., by receiving the SSB of the serving cell), and applies the SI acquisition procedure as specified in the 3GPP standard specification.

[0119] like Figure 9 As shown, in another example, the UE can switch the operating mode from power saving mode to normal mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state for cell reselection. In one scenario, the UE switches the operating mode to normal mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state to start intra-frequency and / or inter-frequency and / or inter-RAT neighbor cell measurements based on SSB for cell reselection. The exact timing for the switch can be event-triggered or depend on the implementation of the UE. In another scenario, the UE switches the operating mode to normal mode in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state to camp on the selected cell determined by the cell reselection evaluation. The UE can determine the exact timing for the switch during the cell reselection process based on LP WUS.

[0120] like Figure 9 As shown, in one example, the UE may switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state to perform periodic RNA updates. For the UE in the power saving mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state, when the timer for RNA update expires (e.g., T380 described in the 3GPP standard specification), the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state, performs downlink synchronization if necessary, and initiates the RRC connection recovery procedure for RNA update, as specified in the 3GPP standard specification.

[0121] like Figure 9As shown in FIG, in yet another example, the UE may switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state for the MBS broadcast service. If the UE in the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state becomes interested in receiving the MBS broadcast service, the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, performs downlink synchronization if necessary, acquires the SIB containing information for acquiring the MCCH configuration, and applies the MCCH information acquisition procedure and the broadcast MRB establishment procedure to start an MBS session for receiving the MBS broadcast service of interest to the UE.

[0122] like Figure 9 As shown in FIG, in yet another example, the UE may switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state for SDT. For a UE in the power saving mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state, if the conditions for initiating SDT specified in the 3GPP standard specifications are met, the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state, performs downlink synchronization if necessary, and performs the RRC connection recovery procedure for SDT specified in the 3GPP standard specifications.

[0123] like Figure 9 As shown, in yet another example, the UE may switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE state for RRC connection setup / establishment, where the RRC connection setup / establishment may be requested by an upper layer (e.g., due to uplink data transmission). In this case, upon receiving the RRC connection setup / establishment request from the upper layer, the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE state, performs downlink synchronization if necessary, and applies the RRC connection establishment procedure.

[0124] like Figure 9 As shown, in yet another example, the UE may switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state for RRC connection recovery, where the RRC connection recovery may be requested by an upper layer or AS. In this case, upon receiving the RRC connection recovery request from the upper layer or AS, the UE switches the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_INACTIVE state, performs downlink synchronization if necessary, and applies the RRC connection establishment procedure.

[0125] like Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, in the disclosed embodiments of the present disclosure, the step of switching the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state may include turning on MR and / or performing cell reselection. For a UE that does not support cell reselection in the power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, in order to switch the operation mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, the UE may need to perform cell reselection to a suitable cell.

[0126] In one embodiment, if a certain condition is met, the UE needs to perform cell reselection after turning on MR. For example, the condition may be that the measurement quantity (e.g., RSRP, RSRQ, RSSI, RSARP, SINR) of the LP WUS from the current serving cell in power saving mode is less than a configured threshold. In another example, if cell reselection is configured during operation when switching from RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state to normal mode, the UE needs to perform cell reselection after turning on MR.

[0127] In the RRC_INACTIVE state, if the UE performs a mode switch (e.g., switching from normal mode to power saving mode, or switching from power saving mode to normal mode) using the RRC connection recovery procedure in the disclosed embodiments of the present disclosure, the BS that receives the RRCResumeRequest message requests the last serving BS to provide the UE context, thereby providing the received cause value (e.g., power saving, mode switching, RNA update) through an inter-node message. The current BS may also notify the last serving BS that the UE is or will be in power saving mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state by including an indication in the inter-node message.

[0128] Once instructed to switch the operating mode to normal mode or power saving mode, the UE may remain in this mode for a predefined duration, which may be in units of DRX cycles (e.g., the default DRX cycle in RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, or the DRX cycle in RRC_CONNECTED state).

[0129] Figure 10 1 is a flow chart of a UE method 1000 for performing a mode switching operation in a wireless communication system to save power consumption according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The UE method 1000 may be performed by a UE (e.g., Figure 1 111-116) are performed as shown. Figure 10 The embodiment of the UE method 1000 shown in FIGURE 1 is for illustration only. Figure 10One or more components shown in the drawings may be implemented in dedicated circuits configured to perform the functions described, or one or more components may be implemented by one or more processors executing instructions to perform the functions described.

[0130] like Figure 10 As shown, the method 1000 starts at step 1002. In step 1002, the UE receives configuration information related to mode switching events including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event from a BS.

[0131] In step 1002, the configuration information includes an indication of supporting LP-WUS.

[0132] In step 1004 , when a first mode switching event occurs, the UE switches the operation mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode by deactivating the MR operation and monitoring the LP-WUS.

[0133] In step 1006, when a second mode switching event occurs, the UE switches the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR operation.

[0134] In one embodiment, when entering RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state from RRC_CONNECTED state, the UE switches the operation mode from normal mode to power saving mode.

[0135] In one embodiment, when the LP-WUS includes a group ID, the UE switches the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, wherein the configuration information includes the group ID.

[0136] In one embodiment, the UE determines whether system information (SI) stored in the UE is valid and switches the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state based on the determination that the SI is invalid.

[0137] In one embodiment, the UE determines whether a cell is selected for a cell reselection operation, and switches the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state based on determining that the cell is selected for the cell reselection operation.

[0138] In one embodiment, the UE determines whether the signal quality of the LP-WUS satisfies a threshold, and switches the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state based on determining that the signal quality of the LP-WUS satisfies the threshold.

[0139] In one embodiment, the UE receives an LP-WUS including a Public Warning System (PWS) notification, and when the LP-WUS includes the PWS notification, the UE switches an operation mode from a power saving mode to a normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state.

[0140] In one embodiment, the UE maintains the operation mode in the normal mode or the power saving mode for a duration, where the duration is identified in units of a discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle.

[0141] Figure 11 is a block diagram of an internal configuration of a base station according to an embodiment.

[0142] like Figure 11 As shown, a base station according to an embodiment may include a transceiver 1110, a memory 1120, and a processor (or controller) 1130. The transceiver 1110, memory 1120, and processor 1130 (or controller) of the base station may operate according to the aforementioned base station communication method. However, the components of the base station are not limited thereto. For example, the base station may include more or fewer components than those described above. Furthermore, the processor 1130, transceiver 1110, and memory 1120 may be implemented as a single chip. Furthermore, the processor 1130 may include at least one processor.

[0143] The transceiver 1110 is generally referred to as a base station receiver and a base station transmitter, and can transmit and receive signals to and from a terminal. The signals transmitted to and received from the terminal may include control information and data. The transceiver 1110 may include an RF transmitter for up-converting and amplifying the frequency of the transmitted signal, and an RF receiver for amplifying the low noise and down-converting the frequency of the received signal. However, this is merely an example of the transceiver 1110, and the components of the transceiver 1110 are not limited to the RF transmitter and the RF receiver.

[0144] In addition, the transceiver 1110 may receive a signal through a wireless channel and output a signal to the processor 1130 , and transmit a signal output from the processor 1130 through a wireless channel.

[0145] The memory 1120 may store programs and data required for the operation of the base station. In addition, the memory 1120 may store control information or data included in signals obtained by the base station. The memory 1120 may be a storage medium such as a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a hard disk, a CD-ROM, and a DVD, or a combination of storage media.

[0146] The processor 1130 may control a series of processes so that the base station operates as described above. For example, the transceiver 1110 may receive a data signal and / or a control signal sent by the terminal, and the processor 1130 may determine a result of receiving a signal sent by the terminal and / or a core network function.

[0147] Figure 12 is a block diagram illustrating an internal structure of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0148] like Figure 12 As shown, the terminal of the present disclosure may include a transceiver 1210, a memory 1220, and a processor (or controller) 1230. The transceiver 1210, memory 1220, and processor (or controller) 1230 of the terminal may operate according to the communication method of the terminal described above. However, the components of the terminal are not limited thereto. For example, the terminal may include more or fewer components than those described above. In addition, the processor 1230, transceiver 1210, and memory 1220 may be implemented as a single chip. In addition, the processor 1230 may include at least one processor.

[0149] The transceiver 1210 is generally referred to as a terminal receiver and a terminal transmitter, and can transmit and receive signals to and from a base station. The signals transmitted to and received from the base station may include control information and data. In this regard, the transceiver 1210 may include an RF transmitter for up-converting and amplifying the frequency of the transmitted signal, and an RF receiver for amplifying the low noise and down-converting the frequency of the received signal. However, this is merely an example of the transceiver 1210, and the components of the transceiver 1210 are not limited to the RF transmitter and the RF receiver.

[0150] In addition, the transceiver 1210 may receive a signal through a wireless channel and output the signal to the processor 1230 , and transmit a signal output from the processor 1230 through a wireless channel.

[0151] The memory 1220 may store programs and data required for the operation of the terminal. In addition, the memory 1220 may store control information or data included in a signal obtained by the terminal. The memory 1220 may be a storage medium such as ROM, RAM, hard disk, CD-ROM, and DVD, or a combination of storage media.

[0152] The processor 1230 may control a series of processes so that the terminal operates as described above. For example, the transceiver 1210 may receive a data signal and / or a control signal, and the processor 1230 may determine a result of receiving a signal transmitted by a base station and / or another terminal.

[0153] The methods according to the embodiments described in the claims or detailed description of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0154] The program (e.g., software module or software) may be stored in random access memory (RAM), non-volatile memory including flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic disk storage, compact disk-ROM (CD-ROM), digital versatile disk (DVD), another type of optical storage device, or magnetic tape cassette. Alternatively, the program may be stored in a memory system that includes a combination of some or all of the above memory devices. Furthermore, multiple memory devices may be included.

[0155] The program may also be stored in an attachable storage device that is accessible via a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (WLAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. The storage device may be connected to an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure via an external port. Another storage device on the communication network may also be connected to an apparatus executing an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0156] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the above illustrative embodiments are described herein and are not intended to be restrictive. It should be understood that any two or more of the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in any combination. In addition, other embodiments can be utilized and other changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the invention of the present disclosure as generally described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings can be arranged, replaced, combined, separated and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated herein.

[0157] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative logic blocks, modules, circuits, and steps described herein can be implemented as hardware, software, or a combination thereof. In order to clearly illustrate this interchangeability between hardware and software, various illustrative components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been described above generally in the form of their functional set. Whether such functional set is implemented as hardware or software depends on specific application and the design constraints imposed on the entire system. Technicians can implement the described functional set in different ways for each specific application, but such design decisions should not be interpreted as causing departure from the scope of the present application.

[0158] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and circuits described in this application may be implemented or performed by a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, for example, a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0159] When the electrical structure and method are implemented using software, a computer-readable recording medium may be provided, having one or more programs (software modules) recorded thereon. The one or more programs recorded on the computer-readable recording medium are configured to be executable by one or more processors in an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions for executing the methods according to the embodiments described in the claims or detailed description of this disclosure.

[0160] In the foregoing embodiments of the present disclosure, the elements included in the present disclosure are expressed in singular or plural form, depending on the embodiment. However, for ease of explanation, the singular or plural form is appropriately selected, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Thus, an element expressed in plural form may also be configured as a single element, and an element expressed in singular form may also be configured as a plurality of elements.

[0161] The above flowcharts illustrate example methods that can be implemented according to the principles of the present disclosure, and various changes can be made to the methods illustrated in the flowcharts herein. For example, although shown as a series of steps, the various steps in each figure can overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur multiple times. In another example, a step can be omitted or replaced by another step.

[0162] Although the present disclosure has been described using exemplary embodiments, various changes and modifications may be suggested to those skilled in the art. The present disclosure is intended to encompass such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims. Nothing in this application should be construed as implying that any particular element, step, or function is essential to the scope of the claims. The scope of a patented subject matter is defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the UE comprising: a transceiver configured to receive configuration information related to a mode switching event from a base station (BS), the mode switching event including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event; as well as a processor operatively coupled to the transceiver, the processor configured to: When the first mode switching event occurs, switching the operation mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode by deactivating the master radio (MR) and monitoring the low power wake-up signal (LP-WUS), and When the second mode switching event occurs, the operation mode is switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR.

2. The UE according to claim 1, wherein The configuration information includes an indication of support for the LP-WUS.

3. The UE according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to switch the operation mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode when entering an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state from an RRC_CONNECTED state.

4. The UE according to claim 1, wherein: The configuration information includes a group identifier (ID); and The processor is further configured to switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state when the LP-WUS includes the group ID. The UE according to claim 1 , wherein: The processor is further configured to: determining whether system information (SI) stored in the UE is valid; and Based on the determination that the SI is invalid, the operation mode is switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state. The UE according to claim 1 , wherein: The processor is further configured to: determining whether a cell is selected for a cell reselection operation; and The operation mode is switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state based on a determination that the cell is selected for the cell reselection operation.

7. The UE according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to: determining whether the signal quality of the LP-WUS satisfies a threshold; and Based on a determination that the signal quality of the LP-WUS satisfies the threshold, the operation mode is switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state.

8. The UE according to claim 1, wherein: The transceiver is further configured to receive the LP-WUS including a Public Warning System (PWS) notification; and The processor is further configured to switch the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state when the LP-WUS includes the PWS notification.

9. The UE according to claim 1, wherein: The processor is further configured to maintain the operating mode in the normal mode or the power saving mode for a duration; as well as The duration is identified in units of a discontinuous reception (DRX) cycle.

10. A method for a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: receiving configuration information related to a mode switching event from a base station (BS), the mode switching event including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event; When the first mode switching event occurs, switching the operation mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode by deactivating a main radio (MR) operation and monitoring a low power wake-up signal (LP-WUS); as well as When the second mode switching event occurs, the operation mode is switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR operation.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein: The configuration information includes an indication of support for the LP-WUS.

12. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: When entering the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state from the RRC_CONNECTED state, the operation mode is switched from the normal mode to the power saving mode.

13. The method according to claim 10, further comprising: When the LP-WUS includes a group identifier (ID), switching the operation mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode in an RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE state, The configuration information includes the group ID.

14. A base station (BS) in a wireless communication system, the BS comprising: a processor configured to generate configuration information related to a mode switching event, the mode switching event including a first mode switching event and a second mode switching event; as well as a transceiver operatively coupled to the processor, the transceiver configured to send configuration information for switching an operating mode to a user equipment (UE), in: When the first mode switching event occurs, the operation mode is switched from a normal mode to a power saving mode by deactivating a main radio (MR) operation and monitoring a low power wake-up signal (LP-WUS); as well as When the second mode switching event occurs, the operation mode is switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode by activating the MR operation.

15. The BS according to claim 14, wherein: The configuration information includes at least one of the following: Indications supporting the LP-WUS; Group Identifier (ID); and Public Warning System (PWS) notifications.

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