System and apparatus suitable for improving energy efficiency and associated processing method

Abstract

A method for optimizing power consumption of a wireless network is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by a first module, at least one input signal including an offset range associated with at least one low power wakeup signal (LPWUS); and executing, by the second module, a processing step for determining the difference. The processing step comprises: measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance; determining a difference between the threshold value and the measured at least one value associated with the LPWUS; and determining whether the determined difference falls within an offset range or outside the offset range. In response to the difference performed by the second module, the processing step performs a radio resource management (RRM) measurement by the third module. A system, an apparatus, and a computer readable medium are also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to improving the power consumption of wireless communication networks. More specifically, a system and method for improving the power consumption of wireless communication networks. Background Technology

[0002] Power management is important for improving the throughput of wireless communication networks, such as telecommunications networks, broadcast networks, radio networks, or even environmental Internet of Things (IoT) devices based on the 3GPP 5G (fifth generation) New Radio (NR) standard.

[0003] Conventional technologies employ the concept that when no signal is received, the device is switched to an idle state, and a signal is sent to the device to trigger it from the idle state to an active state. An example of such a common technology is the Discontinuous Reception (DRX) mechanism, which focuses on reducing power consumption and improving battery life by reducing the device's resource utilization.

[0004] Therefore, it is necessary to improve power efficiency and reduce the power consumption of wireless communications in order to enhance environmental responsibility. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect of this disclosure, a method for optimizing power consumption in a wireless network is provided. The method includes an input step via a first module receiving an input signal comprising an offset range associated with at least one Low-Power Wake-Up Signal (LPWUS). The method includes a processing step via a second module for determining a difference. The processing step further includes measuring at least one value associated with LPWUS during at least one time instance. The processing step further includes determining a difference between a threshold and the measured at least one value associated with LPWUS. The processing step further includes determining whether the determined difference falls within or outside the offset range. In response to the determined difference being processed by the second module at the processing step, an output step is performed via a third module, outputting a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. Advantageously, the RRM measurement can be performed under relaxed measurement conditions or on the serving cell and its neighboring cells to support mobility management, such as cell reselection based on the difference and offset range, thereby achieving power savings.

[0006] In response to determining that the difference falls outside the offset range, the third module can perform a radio resource management (RRM) measurement. This enables a power-saving mode.

[0007] In one embodiment, the method includes determining at least one value associated with LPWUS during at least a first time instance based on at least one Low Power Wake-up Reference Signal (LPRS). In another embodiment, the method includes determining at least one value associated with LPWUS during at least a second time instance based on at least one Low Power Wake-up Reference Signal (LPRS). Advantageously, the method allows for measurement intervals at different time instances. The number of different time instances can be determined relative to the Low Power Reference Signal (LPRS).

[0008] The method may include measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS via a user equipment (UE) within the coverage area of ​​the LPWUS. This at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP). This at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). This at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with both at least one RSRP and at least one RSRQ.

[0009] The method may include measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS via a mobile user equipment (UE) within the coverage area of ​​the LPWUS. This at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP). This at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). This at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with both at least one RSRP and at least one RSRQ.

[0010] The method may include obtaining at least one value associated with LPWUS during at least a first time instance (t), and storing the at least one value associated with LPWUS obtained during at least the first time instance (t) in the memory of the mobile user equipment (UE).

[0011] The method may include obtaining at least one value associated with LPWUS during at least a second time instance (t+1), and storing the at least one value associated with LPWUS obtained during the at least second time instance (t+1) in the memory of the mobile user equipment (UE).

[0012] The processing steps discussed above may further include comparing at least one value associated with (t) with at least one value associated with (t+1). The processing steps discussed above may further include determining whether the mobile UE is within coverage. The processing steps discussed above may further include a series of comparisons of at least one value associated with (t) and at least one value associated with (t+1) and a series of determinations of whether the mobile UE is within coverage, to determine the output for performing RRM measurement relaxation.

[0013] The method may include a communication step of transmitting at least one signal associated with an offset range via at least one base station. The at least one base station may, for example, be at least one next-generation node B (gNB).

[0014] In one embodiment, the method includes an input step, which can be performed by a user equipment (UE), of receiving (302) at least one input signal including an offset range—the offset range being associated with at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS). That is, the first module may be the UE.

[0015] The received offset range, which may be associated with at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS), has a signal value corresponding to a reference signal, which includes at least one reference signal received power (RSRP).

[0016] In one embodiment, at least one LPWUS includes a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one reference signal received power (RSRP). At least one LPWUS includes a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one reference signal received quality (RSRQ). In one embodiment, at least one LPWUS includes a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one reference signal received power (RSRP) and a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one reference signal received quality (RSRQ).

[0017] In one aspect of this disclosure, a computer program is provided. The computer program may include instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform at least one of the input and processing steps of the disclosed method.

[0018] In one aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium is provided. This computer-readable storage medium may store data representing computer-executable software, the software including instructions that, when executed by a computer, are used to perform at least one of the input steps and processing steps of the disclosed method.

[0019] In one aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a first module operable to receive at least one input signal. The input signal may include at least one Low Power Wake-up Signal (LPWUS) associated with an offset range. The apparatus includes a second module (204) operable to retrieve and perform processing steps (304) to determine a difference. The second module is operable to measure at least one value associated with LPWUS during at least one time instance. The second module is operable to determine a difference between a threshold and the measured at least one value associated with LPWUS. The second module is operable to determine whether the determined difference falls within or outside the offset range. The apparatus includes a third module operable to generate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal to perform a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement in response to the determined difference. Advantageously, the apparatus as disclosed can provide energy efficiency by using parameters of the LPWUS signal as an offset range or threshold using an RRM relaxation method at time intervals.

[0020] The device may include a user equipment (UE) that wirelessly communicates with the apparatus (104), which includes a base station. The base station may be a next-generation node B (gNB) operable to wirelessly transmit at least one signal associated with the offset range to the UE.

[0021] In one aspect of this disclosure, a system is provided. The system includes at least one device as disclosed in this disclosure and at least one means as disclosed in this disclosure. In one embodiment, the device and means are operable to be coupled via at least one wired coupling. In another embodiment, the device and means are operable to be coupled via at least one wireless coupling. In yet another embodiment, the device and means are operable to be coupled via both at least one wired coupling and at least one wireless coupling.

[0022] Advantageously, the disclosed system can provide energy efficiency by using parameters of the LPWUS signal as an offset range or threshold through an RRM relaxation method with time intervals. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Embodiments of this disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0024] Figure 1a A system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which is operable to include at least one device.

[0025] Figures 1b to 1d The embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1a Example scenarios associated with the system;

[0026] Figure 2 Embodiments according to this disclosure are shown in further detail. Figure 1a The equipment.

[0027] Figure 3 The embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1a The system-related processing / communication methods.

[0028] Figure 4a and Figure 4b The embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 3 Example background related to the processing / communication methods.

[0029] Figure 5 The embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 4a and Figure 4b Illustrative examples associated with the example background. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In the following text, the terms “first,” “second,” etc., refer to separate technical features or functions that have substantially the same characteristics and functions, and do not represent an order of importance. For example, when used in the context of this document, “first time instance” should refer to an instance in which an RRM measurement is performed, and “second time instance” should refer to an instance in which another RRM measurement is performed, wherein “first time instance” and “second time instance” may be performed at different time intervals.

[0031] The term "associated" refers to a connection between one or more technical elements, resulting from the technical consequence of one element producing the technical consequence of another, or from the technical consequence of one or more elements producing the technical consequence of another. For example, the statement "LPWUS area operable to be associated with LPWUS coverage" should be understood by those skilled in the art as follows: "LPWUS coverage" refers to an area in which a wireless communication network is operable to transmit signals to and receive signals from other hardware devices within the wireless communication network, and the term "LPWUS area" should refer to a physical area corresponding to the network coverage, i.e., a distance in which wireless signals are operable to transmit with reasonably good signal strength, enabling receiving hardware devices to operate to detect and receive wireless signals. Therefore, the term "associated" as used in this context is intended to support the reader's understanding of the correlation between physical objects such as physical areas and non-physical objects such as the exchange of wireless signals within a wireless communication network.

[0032] This specification discloses apparatus for performing methods. Such apparatus may be specifically constructed for the desired purpose, or may include a computer or other means selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. The algorithms and displays presented herein are inherently independent of any particular computer or other device. Various machines may be used with the program in accordance with the teachings herein. Alternatively, it may be appropriate to construct more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The structure of a computer will become apparent from the description below.

[0033] Furthermore, this specification implicitly discloses a computer program, as it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that individual steps of the methods described herein can be implemented by computer code. The computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular programming language or its implementation. It should be understood that various programming languages ​​and their code processing can be used to implement the teachings of the disclosure contained herein. Moreover, the computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular control flow. Many other variations of the computer program exist, which can operate to use different control flows without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure.

[0034] Furthermore, one or more steps of a computer program can be executed in parallel rather than sequentially. Such a computer program can be stored on any computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media may include storage devices such as magnetic disks or optical disks, memory chips, or other storage devices suitable for interfacing with a computer. Computer-readable media may also include hard wired media, such as those exemplified in an Internet system, or wireless media, such as those exemplified in a mobile phone system. When a computer program is loaded onto such a computer and executed, it effectively produces a device for implementing the steps of a preferred method.

[0035] According to embodiments of this disclosure, this disclosure generally envisions improvements such as network (e.g., associated with 3GPP-based standards / specifications, etc.) and / or user equipment (UE) efficiency (e.g., energy / power efficiency).

[0036] One possibility for addressing energy / power efficiency issues is to utilize a discrete / integrated receiver (i.e., a Low-Power Wake-Up Receiver, LPWUR) operable to be introduced to monitor Low-Power Wake-Up Signals (LPWUS). The Main Radio (MR) is operable in relation to a conventional communication device (i.e., a New Radio (NR) device), where operations associated with RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED states (i.e., Radio Resource Control idle / inactive / connected states) are operable to be performed. When no data / signals are being transmitted, the UE can disable the MR or maintain it in a deep sleep state while utilizing the discrete LPWUR to monitor LPWUS, thereby enabling possible data / signal communication for power savings. Furthermore, a UE accessing the network may need to remain in at least one RRC state anyway—however, with the LPWUR, the MR can be disabled. Clearly, in such an LPWUS mode, the UE monitors LPWUS (or, if possible, LP synchronization signals, reference signals) without actions associated with RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE (e.g., paging / PEI reception, SSB / SI reception).

[0037] It is envisioned that during such monitoring, the UE can also perform RRM measurements. Furthermore, the UE supporting LPWUR can be mobile, and the UE may need to continuously perform measurements to at least determine whether the UE is within LPWUS coverage. Additionally, one or more gNBs periodically broadcast a Low Power Wake-up Reference Signal (LPRS), which is operable to be decoded by a Low Power Wake-up Receiver (LPWUR).

[0038] Further assuming the above possibilities, it is unlikely that energy / power efficiency can be improved in the best / most efficient way, because energy / power may still need to be consumed (e.g., by the UE) during the monitoring period discussed above. However, these efforts may not optimize power reduction and cannot improve power efficiency.

[0039] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it is envisioned that considering some form of dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement that may contribute to power / energy efficiency could be helpful. According to embodiments of this disclosure, for example, dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement is operable to be offset-based, which can (only) achieve RRM measurement within LPWUS coverage when necessary / where required (i.e., achieve avoidance of unnecessary RRM measurement within LPWUS coverage).

[0040] In a specific example, the gNB is operable to be configured to generate at least one LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) offset range and / or at least one LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) offset range to determine, for example, whether the UE should perform RRM relaxation. A UE within LPWUS coverage is operable to be configured, for example, to perform LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ measurements at one or more different time points / periods based on LPRS. The UE is operable to be configured to calculate the difference between the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value (i.e., based on the LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ measurement) and an LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold. The LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold is operable to be generated / configured, for example, by the gNB. Based on the difference between the current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold—which is operable to be determined to be within / outside the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range—the UE is operable to be configured to perform RRM measurement or RRM measurement relaxation. For example, when the determined difference (i.e., the difference between the current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold) is determined to be within the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range, the UE is operable to be configured to perform RRM measurement. For example, when the determined difference (i.e., the difference between the current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold) is determined to be outside the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range (i.e., not within it), the UE is operable to be configured to perform RRM measurement relaxation.

[0041] According to embodiments of this disclosure, dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement is operable to be implemented in the manner described above, and power / energy efficiency is also operable to achieve possible improvements. According to embodiments of this disclosure, it is apparent that dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement (operable based on offset) allows the UE to operate to perform RRM measurement, for example, (only) when necessary / under necessary conditions (e.g., within LPWUS coverage) (e.g., to avoid unnecessary RRM measurement within LPWUS coverage), thus achieving power / energy efficiency savings / efficiencies.

[0042] Figures 1 to 14 will be referred to below. Figure 5 Let's discuss the foregoing in further detail.

[0043] refer to Figure 1a According to embodiments of the present disclosure, system 100 is shown. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, system 100 may, for example, be adapted to improve energy / power efficiency.

[0044] As shown, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, system 100 is operable to include one or more devices 102, at least one apparatus 104, and optionally a communication network 106.

[0045] Device 102 is operable to be coupled to device 104. Specifically, according to embodiments of this disclosure, device 102 is operable to be coupled to device 104, for example, via communication network 106.

[0046] In one embodiment, device 102 is operable to couple to communication network 106, and device 104 is operable to couple to communication network 106. Coupling is operable via one or both of wired and wireless coupling. According to embodiments of this disclosure, device 102 is generally operable to be configured to communicate with device 104 via communication network 106.

[0047] According to embodiments of this disclosure, device 102 is operable to be associated with or correspond to, or include, one or more user equipments (UEs) operable to carry one or more computers. For example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, device 102 is operable to correspond to a UE carrying at least one computer (e.g., according to embodiments of this disclosure, an electronic device or module with computing capabilities, such as an electronic mobile device operable to be carried in a vehicle or an electronic module operable to be installed in a vehicle), the at least one computer operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in a manner supporting adaptive / dynamic RRM, the one or more processing tasks being associated with / operable to include, for example, radio resource management (RRM) related processing. RRM related processing is operable to include / be associated with, for example, one or both of RRM measurement and RRM measurement relaxation (i.e., RRM measurement and / or RRM measurement relaxation). In a more specific example, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, device 102 is operable to include one or more processors (not shown) operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks associated with RRM-related processing. In one embodiment, device 102 is operable to be configured, for example, to receive one or more input signals and to perform at least one processing task based on the input signals in a manner that generates one or more output signals. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, input signals are operable to be transmitted, for example, from device 104 and received by device 102. As a possible option, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, output signals are operable to be transmitted, for example, from device 102. Embodiments of the present disclosure will be referenced later. Figure 2 Let’s discuss device 102 in more detail.

[0048] Device 104 is operable to be associated with / correspond to, for example, at least one base station (e.g., at least one gNB). Furthermore, device 104 is operable to be configured, for example, to carry / associate with / include one or more computers (e.g., electronic devices / modules with computing capabilities), which are operable to be configured, for example, to perform one or more processing tasks associated with the base station. According to embodiments of this disclosure, device 104 is operable to be configured to generate one or more input signals operable to be transmitted to device 102. This will be discussed in more detail later in the context of an example scenario, according to embodiments of this disclosure.

[0049] Communication network 106 is operable to correspond, for example, to an Internet communication network, a cellular communication network, a wired communication network, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based communication network, a wireless communication network, or any combination thereof. Communication via communication network 106 (e.g., between devices 102 and / or between devices 102 and apparatus 104) is operable to be performed via one or both of wired and wireless communication.

[0050] As mentioned above, device 102 is operable to be configured, for example, to receive at least one input signal and, based on the input signal, to perform at least one processing task associated with RRM-related processing in a manner that generates at least one output signal. Furthermore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, device 104 is operable to be configured, for example, to generate (and transmit) input signals to device 102. Embodiments of this disclosure will be referenced below. Figures 1b to 1d This will be discussed within the context of an example scenario.

[0051] Specifically, Figure 1b An embodiment of the present disclosure is shown for combining such Figure 1c and Figure 1d The example scenario shown is used to discuss the example background.

[0052] More specifically, in the context of the example, refer to Figure 1bAs mentioned earlier, one possibility for addressing energy / power efficiency issues is to utilize a discrete / integrated receiver (i.e., a Low-Power Wake-Up Receiver, LPWUR), which is operable to be introduced to monitor the Low-Power Wake-Up Signal (LPWUS). The Main Radio (MR) is operable to correspond to the conventional communication device (i.e., the New Radio (NR) device), where operations related to the RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED states (i.e., Radio Resource Control idle / inactive / connected states) are operable to be performed. When no data / signal is being transmitted, the UE can disable the MR or maintain the MR in a deep sleep state while utilizing the discrete LPWUR to monitor the LPWUS, thereby enabling possible data / signal communication to achieve power savings. Furthermore, UEs accessing the network may need to remain in at least one RRC state anyway—however, with the LPWUR, the MR can be disabled. Obviously, in such LPWUS mode, the UE monitors LPWUS (or, if possible, LP synchronization signals, reference signals) without actions related to RRC_IDLE / INACTIVE (e.g., paging / PEI reception, SSB / SI reception). It is envisioned that the UE can also perform RRM measurements during such monitoring. Furthermore, the LPWUR-enabled UE may be mobile, and the UE may need to continuously perform measurements to at least determine whether the UE is within LPWUS coverage. Additionally, one or more gNBs periodically broadcast a Low Power Wake-up Reference Signal (LPRS), which is operable to be decoded by a Low Power Wake-up Receiver (LPWUR). It is further envisioned that the above possibilities may not improve energy / power efficiency in an optimal / efficient manner, as energy / power may still be consumed (e.g., by the UE) during the monitoring period discussed above. This may still result in low energy / power efficiency.

[0053] According to embodiments of this disclosure, in this respect, this disclosure contemplates that it may be helpful to consider some form of dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement that would contribute to power / energy efficiency, as will be discussed in further detail in the context of an example scenario associated with system 100.

[0054] refer to Figure 1c and Figure 1dAccording to embodiments of the present disclosure, in an example scenario, system 100 is operable to be adapted to perform dynamic / adaptive radio resource management (RRM) measurements. In a more specific example, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, system 100 is operable to be adapted to perform dynamic / adaptive radio resource management (RRM) measurements in a manner that improves energy / power efficiency. Furthermore, device 102 (hereinafter referred to as UE in the context of this example scenario) is operable to be carried in / by a vehicle. Furthermore, device 104 (hereinafter referred to as “gNB” in the context of this example scenario) is operable to be coupled to a UE (e.g., via communication network 106). Furthermore, in the example scenario, it is operable to have multiple UEs (e.g., UE1 and UE2) coupled to the gNB. For example, the UEs are operable to be located, for example, in various locations / areas within network 106. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, such locations / areas are operable to include, for example, LPWUS areas and PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel) areas. Furthermore, the boundary between the LPWUS region and the PDCCH region is operable to be considered / operable to represent the RSRP / RSRQ threshold.

[0055] For example, as shown, UE1, which is closer to the gNB (compared to UE2), is operable to be considered as being located in the LPWUS area. The LPWUS area is operable to be associated with, for example, LPWUS coverage. In this respect, UE1 is operable to be considered as being within LPWUS coverage (conversely, UE2 is outside LPWUS coverage). Furthermore, as shown, UE2, which is farther from the gNB (compared to UE1), is operable to be considered as being outside LPWUS coverage but within the PDCCH area. The PDCCH area is operable to be associated with, for example, PDCCH coverage. In this respect, UE2 is operable to be considered as being outside LPWUS coverage, while UE1 is operable to be considered as being within LPWUS coverage.

[0056] In a scenario where UE1 and UE2 are, for example, mobile, both UEs (i.e., UE1 and UE2) may need to perform RRM measurements, which may not be energy efficient. In this regard, according to embodiments of this disclosure, this disclosure envisions the possibility of relaxing the requirements for performing RRM measurements on mobile UEs (e.g., UE1) operable within LPWUS coverage.

[0057] Specifically, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the disclosure envisions the possibility that a UE (e.g., UE1) located within LPWUS coverage and neither moving (stationary) nor moving (non-stationary) can be operated to be configured to perform RRM measurement relaxation (rather than relying primarily on LPRS, performing RRM relaxation only under the condition that the UE is not moving / has low mobility and / or is not located at the cell edge). According to embodiments of this disclosure, it is thus envisioned that a UE (e.g., UE1) within LPWUS coverage could, for example, benefit from power / energy efficiency (e.g., if RRM measurement relaxation is performed).

[0058] Typically, according to embodiments of this disclosure, this disclosure envisions, for example, the possibility of utilizing LPRS associated with RRM measurement relaxation within LPWUS coverage.

[0059] For example, the UE may be operable to be configured to receive one or more input signals that can be transmitted from the gNB. For example, the gNB may be operable to be configured to generate and / or transmit to the UE one or more input signals that are associated with / correspond to / include the LPWUS RSRP offset range and / or LPWUS RSRQ offset range. In one embodiment, input signal communication from the gNB to the UE may be operable to be based, for example, on any one of the following or any combination thereof:

[0060] • In RRC_IDLE mode, system information messages are operable and can be utilized.

[0061] • In RRC_INACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, system information messages and / or UE-specific messages are operable and can be utilized.

[0062] • In RRC_INACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, it is possible for the UE to be operable to be configured to select an offset range that is configured using only UE-specific messages.

[0063] According to the disclosed embodiments, the electronic module 200a is envisioned to be operable to perform one or more processing tasks associated with adaptive / dynamic / progressive control-related processing. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the UE is operable to be further configured, for example, as will be referred to later. Figure 3 As discussed in further detail, the input signal is processed in a manner to generate one or more output signals in a way that improves efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency). In a specific example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the output signal is operable to be associated with / correspond to / include one or more control signals to enable adaptive / dynamic RRM measurement in order to improve efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency).

[0064] The advantageous aspects of system 100 described above in this disclosure are operable to also similarly apply to all aspects of device 102 described below in this disclosure. Similarly, all the advantageous aspects of device 102 described below in this disclosure are operable to also similarly apply to all aspects of system 100 described above in this disclosure.

[0065] The following will refer to Figure 2 The aforementioned device 102 will be discussed in further detail.

[0066] refer to Figure 2 According to embodiments of the present disclosure, device 102 is shown in further detail in the context of example implementation 200. In example implementation 200, device 102 is operable to correspond to electronic module 200a. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, in one example, electronic module 200a is operable to correspond to a mobile device operable to be carried, for example, by a user into a vehicle. In another example, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, electronic module 200a is operable to correspond to an electronic device operable to be installed / assembled in a vehicle. In this respect, electronic module 200a is operable to be considered as being carried by a vehicle (e.g., carried by a user into a vehicle or installed / assembled in a vehicle).

[0067] According to embodiments of this disclosure, it is envisioned that electronic module 200a is operable to perform one or more processing tasks associated with RRM-related processing.

[0068] Electronic module 200a is operable to include, for example, housing 200b. Furthermore, electronic module 200a is operable to carry, for example, any one or any combination of the first module 202, the second module 204, and the third module 206.

[0069] In one embodiment, electronic module 200a is operable to carry first module 202, second module 204, and / or third module 206. In a specific example, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, electronic module 200a is operable to carry first module 202, second module 204, and third module 206.

[0070] In this regard, it should be understood that, in one embodiment, the shape and size of the housing 200b are operable to be configured to carry any one or any combination of the first module 202, the second module 204, and the third module 206.

[0071] The first module 202 is operable to be coupled to one or both of the second module 204 and the third module 206. The second module 204 is operable to be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the third module 206. The third module 206 is operable to be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the second module 204. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in one example, the first module 202 is operable to be coupled to the second module 204, and the second module 204 is operable to be coupled to the third module 206. The coupling between the first module 202, the second module 204, and / or the third module 206 is operable to be performed, for example, by one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, each of the first module 202, the second module 204, and the third module 206 is operable to correspond to one or both of a hardware-based module and a software-based module.

[0072] In one example, the first module 202 is operable to correspond to a hardware-based receiver operable to be configured to receive one or more input signals. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the input signals are operable to be transmitted, for example, from device 104 (e.g., gNB).

[0073] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the second module 204 is operable to correspond, for example, to a hardware-based processor operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks (e.g., to generate one or more output signals), as will be referred to later. Figure 3 Further detailed discussion is needed.

[0074] The third module 206 is operable to correspond to a hardware-based transmitter operable to be configured to transmit one or more output signals from the electronic module 200a. According to embodiments of this disclosure, the output signals are operable to include, for example, one or more instruction / command / control signals associated with or corresponding to RRM-related processing (i.e., RRM measurement and / or RRM measurement relaxation) to improve efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency and / or communication efficiency). According to embodiments of this disclosure, efficiency is operable to be improved based on the output signals in an adaptive / dynamic RRM measurement manner.

[0075] This disclosure envisions the possibility that the first module 202 and the second module 204 can be operated as integrated hardware and software modules (e.g., electronic components operable to carry software programs / algorithms associated with receiving and processing functions / electronic modules programmed to perform receiving and processing functions). This disclosure further envisions the possibility that the first module 202 and the third module 206 can be operated as integrated hardware and software modules (e.g., electronic components operable to carry software programs / algorithms associated with receiving and transmitting functions / electronic modules programmed to perform receiving and transmitting functions). This disclosure further envisions the possibility that the first module 202 and the third module 206 can be operated as integrated hardware modules capable of performing receiving and transmitting functions (e.g., hardware-based transceivers).

[0076] The advantageous aspects of the apparatus 102 described above in this disclosure are operable to similarly apply to all aspects of the processing / communication methods described below in this disclosure. Similarly, all the advantageous aspects of the processing / communication methods described below in this disclosure are operable to similarly apply to all aspects of the apparatus 102 described above in this disclosure. It should be understood that these statements similarly apply to the system 100 discussed above in this disclosure.

[0077] refer to Figure 3 According to embodiments of this disclosure, a communication method (also referred to as a processing method) associated with system 100 is shown.

[0078] According to embodiments of this disclosure, processing method 300 is operable to, for example, be suitable for / able to improve / enhance energy efficiency.

[0079] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the processing method 300 is operable to include any one or any combination of the input step 302, the processing step 304, and the output step 306.

[0080] In one embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include an input step 302. In another embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include an input step 302 and a processing step 304. In another embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include an input step 302, a processing step 304, and an output step 306. In yet another embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include a processing step 304 and one or both of input step 302 and output step 306. In yet another further embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include an input step 302, a processing step 304, and an output step 306. In yet another further additional embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include a processing step 304. In yet another further additional embodiment, processing method 300 is operable to include any one or any combination of input step 302, processing step 304, and output step 306 (i.e., input step 302, processing step 304, and / or output step 306).

[0081] Regarding input step 302, one or more input signals are operable to be received. For example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the input signals are operable to be transmitted from device 104 and operable to be received by device 102.

[0082] Regarding processing step 304, according to embodiments of this disclosure, at least one processing task is operable to be performed in association with the received input signal in a manner that generates one or more output signals.

[0083] Regarding output step 306, according to embodiments of this disclosure, as an option, the output signal may be operable to be transmitted, for example.

[0084] For example, the output signal is operable to optionally transmit from device 102. In a more specific example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the output signal is operable to optionally transmit from device 102 to one or both of at least one device 104 and another device 102.

[0085] Figure 4a and Figure 4b An example background related to processing method 300 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0086] In such Figure 4a In the example context shown, the gNB is operable to be configured to generate / define at least one LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ offset range and to transmit one or more input signals operable to correspond to / associate with / include the generated / defined LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ offset range.

[0087] In such Figure 4b In the example context shown, the UE is operable to be configured to receive the generated / defined LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ offset range. The UE is operable to be further configured to determine whether the offset between the current LPWUS RSRP and a threshold is within the offset range. If the offset is within the offset range (i.e., "Yes"), the UE is operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks associated with the RRM measurement. If the offset is not within the offset range (i.e., "No"), the UE is operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks associated with RRM measurement relaxation / relaxation.

[0088] Figure 5 The embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 4a and Figure 4b Illustrative examples associated with the example background.

[0089] Specifically, when the offset is within the offset range, one or more RRM measurement-related processing tasks are operable to be executed. Conversely, when the offset falls outside the offset range, one or more RRM measurement relaxation-related processing tasks are operable to be executed.

[0090] In view of the foregoing, it should be understood that this disclosure generally envisions a processing method 300.

[0091] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the processing method 300 may be operable to include, for example, an input step 302 and a processing step 304.

[0092] The input step (302) is operable to include receiving an offset range associated with at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS).

[0093] The processing step (304) is operable to include any one or any combination of the measurement step, the main determination step, and the auxiliary determination step (i.e., the measurement step, the main determination step, and / or the auxiliary determination step).

[0094] The measurement step is operable to include measuring one or more values ​​associated with LPWUS during at least one time instance. The main determination step is operable to include determining the difference between a threshold and the value associated with LPWUS. The auxiliary determination step is operable to include determining whether the determined difference is within the offset range.

[0095] Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements are operable to be performed when the determined difference is determined to be within the offset range. Otherwise, RRM measurements are relaxed to be operable to be performed when the determined difference is determined to be outside the offset range.

[0096] Generally, in this manner, according to embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that dynamic / adaptive radio resource management (RRM) measurements are operable to be implemented.

[0097] In one embodiment, the value associated with LPWUS is operable to correspond, for example, to at least one parameter associated with one or both of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) (i.e., RSRP and / or RSRQ). In one example, the value associated with LPWUS is operable to correspond to at least one parameter associated with at least one RSRP or at least one RSRQ. In another example, the value associated with LPWUS is operable to correspond to multiple parameters associated with at least one RSRP and at least one RSRQ.

[0098] In one embodiment, the value associated with LPWUS measured during at least one time instance is operable to be based, for example, on at least one LPRS (Low Power Wake-up Reference Signal).

[0099] In one embodiment, the value associated with LPWUS is operable to be measured based on at least one LPRS (Low Power Wake-up Reference Signal) during multiple time instances.

[0100] In one embodiment, a user equipment (UE) within LPWUS coverage area is operable to be configured to perform measurements of one or more values ​​associated with LPWUS. Furthermore, the values ​​associated with LPWUS are operable to correspond, for example, to one or more parameters related to Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and / or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0101] In one embodiment, a mobile user equipment (UE) within LPWUS coverage area is operable to be configured to perform measurements of one or more values ​​associated with LPWUS. Furthermore, the values ​​associated with LPWUS are operable to correspond, for example, to at least one parameter associated with Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and / or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0102] In one embodiment, a mobile user equipment (UE) is operable to include a memory operable to be configured to store one or more values ​​associated with LPWUS during at least one time instance.

[0103] In one embodiment, the memory is operable to be configured to store values ​​associated with LPWUS during the current time instance (t) and the subsequent time instance (t+1).

[0104] In one embodiment, the mobile UE is operable to be configured to determine whether an improvement exists based on a value associated with "t" and a value associated with "t+1". The improvement is operable to be determined, for example, based on whether the determined difference is within an offset range. When the determined difference is determined to be outside the offset range, RRM measurement relaxation is operable to be performed.

[0105] In one embodiment, one or more base stations (e.g., corresponding to one or more gNBs) are operable to be configured to perform communication steps of transmitting one or more signals (e.g., input signals) associated with an offset range.

[0106] In one embodiment, the user equipment (UE) is operable to be configured to perform an input step. A signal associated with the offset range (e.g., an input signal) is operable to be transmitted to the UE, for example, from the gNB.

[0107] This disclosure further envisions a computer program (not shown) operable to include instructions that, when executed by a computer (not shown), cause the computer to perform input step 302, processing step 304, and / or output step 306 as discussed in reference communication / processing method 300. For example, according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the computer program is operable to include instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform input step 302 and / or processing step 304.

[0108] This disclosure further envisions a computer-readable storage medium (not shown) storing data representing software executable by a computer (not shown), the software including instructions that, when executed by a computer, are used to perform input step 302, processing step 304, and / or output step 306 as discussed in reference communication / processing method 300. For example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the computer-readable storage medium is operable to store data representing computer-executable software including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform input step 302 and / or processing step 304.

[0109] In light of the foregoing, it should be understood that this disclosure generally envisions a device 102 operable to include a first module (202), a second module (204), and / or a third module (206).

[0110] The first module 202 is operable to be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signals are operable to include at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS) associated with an offset range.

[0111] The second module 204 is operable to be configured to process input signals and / or perform processing on input signals according to the processing method 300 discussed above, to generate one or more output signals.

[0112] The third module 206 is operable to be configured to transmit one or more output signals. The output signals are operable to correspond, for example, to one or more control signals to enable radio resource management (RRM) measurements or radio resource management (RRM) measurement relaxations.

[0113] In one embodiment, device 102 is operable to correspond to a user equipment (UE), which is operable to communicate with device 104 corresponding to a base station. The base station is operable to correspond, for example, to a next-generation node B (gNB), which is operable to be configured to transmit one or more signals (e.g., input signals) associated with an offset range to the UE.

[0114] Furthermore, in view of the foregoing, it should be understood that this disclosure generally contemplates a system 100, which is operable to include one or more devices 102 and one or more apparatuses 104. Devices 102 and apparatuses 104 are operable to be coupled, for example, via wired coupling and / or wireless coupling.

[0115] It should be understood that the embodiments described above are operable to be combined in any way where appropriate (e.g., one or more embodiments as discussed in the “Detailed Description” section are operable to be combined with one or more embodiments as described in the “Summary of the Invention” section).

[0116] Those skilled in the art will further understand that variations and combinations of the embodiments described above, rather than alternatives or substitutions, can be combined to form even further embodiments.

[0117] In one example, the possibility of transmitting an output signal from device 102 is discussed. It should be understood that transmitting an output signal from device 102 is not necessarily required. Specifically, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the possibility that an output signal may not necessarily need to be transmitted outside of device 102 is envisioned. More specifically, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the output signal may be operable to correspond, for example, to internal commands / instructions (e.g., transmitted only within device 102) for adaptively controlling the operational configuration of device 102.

[0118] In another example, according to embodiments of this disclosure, applications of this disclosure associated with / in the context of low-power wake-up radios and / or ambient IoT (Internet of Things) type devices are operable to become possible.

[0119] In yet another example, device 104 (e.g., gNB) is operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks associated with RRM measurement relaxation.

[0120] In yet another further example, device 102 (e.g., UE) and / or device 104 (e.g., gNB) are operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks related to RRM measurement relaxation.

[0121] Various embodiments of the present disclosure for addressing at least one of the aforementioned disadvantages have been described in the foregoing manner. Such embodiments are intended to be covered by the appended claims and are not limited to the specific form or arrangement of the parts so described, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art, given the present disclosure, that many changes and / or modifications are operable to be made, which are also intended to be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method (300) for optimizing power consumption in a wireless network, the method comprising: The first module (202) receives (302) at least one input signal including an offset range, the offset range being associated with at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS); as well as The second module (204) performs the processing step (304) for determining the difference. The characteristic feature is that the processing step (304) includes: Measure at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance; Determine the difference between a threshold and at least one measured value associated with the LPWUS; and Sure: Does the determined difference fall within the said offset range? The determined difference falls outside the said offset range. as well as In response to the difference determined by the second module (204) (304) Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements are performed via the third module (206).

2. The method (300) according to claim 1, characterized in that... In response to determining that the difference falls outside the offset range, Radio resource management (RRM) measurements are performed via the third module (206).

3. The method (300) according to claims 1 to 2, wherein the method comprises: The at least one value associated with the LPWUS is determined based on at least one low-power wake-up reference signal (LPRS) during at least a first time instance.

4. The method (300) according to claims 1 to 3, wherein the method comprises: The at least one value associated with the LPWUS is determined during at least a second time instance based on at least one low-power wake-up reference signal (LPRS).

5. The method (300) according to claims 1 to 4, wherein the method comprises: At least one value associated with the LPWUS is measured by user equipment (UE) within the coverage area of ​​the LPWUS. The at least one of the values ​​is associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with the following: At least one reference signal received power (RSRP); At least one reference signal reception quality (RSRQ), Or a combination thereof.

6. The method (300) according to claims 1 to 4, wherein the method comprises: Measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS through mobile user equipment (UE) within the coverage area of ​​the LPWUS. The at least one of the values ​​is associated with the LPWUS, which corresponds to at least one parameter associated with the following: At least one reference signal received power (RSRP); At least one reference signal reception quality (RSRQ), Or a combination thereof.

7. The method (300) according to claim 6, wherein the method comprises: At least one value associated with the LPWUS is obtained during at least the first time instance (t); as well as The at least one value associated with the LPWUS obtained during the at least first time instance (t) is stored in the memory of the mobile user equipment (UE).

8. The method (300) according to claims 1 to 7, wherein the method comprises: At least one value associated with the LPWUS is obtained during at least the second time instance (t+1); as well as The at least one value associated with the LPWUS is stored in the memory of the mobile user equipment (UE) during the at least second time instance (t+1).

9. The method (300) according to claims 1 to 8, wherein the processing step (304) further comprises: The at least one value associated with (t) is compared with the at least one value associated with (t+1); Determine whether the mobile UE is within the coverage area; Or a combination thereof.

10. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: The communication step of transmitting at least one signal associated with the offset range is performed through at least one base station.

11. The processing method (300) according to claim 10, wherein at least one base station is at least one next-generation node B (gNB).

12. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein step Receiving (302) includes at least one input signal, including an offset range associated with at least one Low Power Wake-up Signal (LPWUS), which can be performed by a User Equipment (UE).

13. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... The received offset range associated with at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS) has a signal value corresponding to a reference signal, which includes at least one reference signal received power (RSRP).

14. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... The received offset range associated with the at least one Low Power Wake-up Signal (LPWUS) has a signal value corresponding to a reference signal, which includes at least one Reference Signal Receive Quality (RSRQ).

15. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... The at least one LPWUS includes a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter, which is associated with the following At least one reference signal received power (RSRP); and At least one reference signal reception quality (RSRQ), Or a combination thereof.

16. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform at least one of an input step (302) and a processing step (304) of the method (300) according to any of the preceding claims.

17. A computer-readable storage medium storing data representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions that, when executed by the computer, are used to perform at least one of an input step (302) and a processing step (304) of the method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims.

18. An apparatus (102), said apparatus comprising: A first module (202) is operable to receive at least one input signal, the input signal including at least one low-power wake-up signal (LPWUS) associated with an offset range; The second module (204) is operable to retrieve and perform processing steps (304) to determine the difference. The second module (204) is characterized in that it is operable to: Measure at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance; Determine the difference between a threshold and at least one measured value associated with the LPWUS; and Sure, The determined difference falls within the offset range; or The determined difference falls outside the said offset range. as well as A third module (206) is operable to generate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal to perform a radio resource management (RRM) measurement in response to a determined difference.

19. The device (102) according to claim 18, Its features are, The device (102) includes a user equipment (UE) that wirelessly communicates with the device (104), the device including a base station. The base station is a next-generation node B (gNB), which is operable to wirelessly transmit at least one signal associated with the offset range to the UE.

20. A system (100) comprising: At least one device (102) according to any one of claims 18 and 19; as well as At least one device (104) according to any one of claims 18 and 19, The device (102) and the apparatus (104) are coupled via at least one wired coupling, at least one wireless coupling, or a combination thereof.

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