Method and apparatus for user equipment for subsequent transmissions in inactive state in wireless communications

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for user equipment for subsequent transmissions in an inactive state in wireless communications. A user equipment (UE) device is described that includes an antenna, a memory, an RF circuit communicatively coupled to the antenna, and a processor configured to perform operations. In an exemplary embodiment, the operation includes receiving a radio resource control (RRC) release message from a base station, where the RRC release message includes a pause configuration for transitioning the UE to an RRC inactive state. In addition, the operation includes entering an RRCinactive state. The operations include performing an initial data transmission without transitioning from the RRCinactive state to the RRCconnected state when the UE is in the RRCinactive state. Additionally, the operations include monitoring a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) for UE-specific scheduling for transmission or reception of subsequent data during an active period when the UE is in the RRC inactive state. Further, the operations include performing transmission or reception of subsequent data based on the monitoring of the PDCCH.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a Chinese invention patent application that entered the Chinese national phase of a PCT application with an international filing date of September 28, 2020, national application number 202080105569.8, and an invention titled "Method and apparatus for performing subsequent transmissions in an inactive state in wireless communication". Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates generally to wireless technology, and more specifically to methods and apparatus for subsequent data transmission of user equipment (UE) in an inactive state. Background Technology

[0003] In wireless communication networks, 5G New Radio (NR) provides faster networks with higher capacity, which can facilitate the control of the Internet of Things (IoT), such as remote devices, in applications where real-time network performance is critical. With the increasing demand for faster data exchange and seamless communication, reducing latency and battery consumption has become crucial to supporting the performance requirements of 5G NR technology.

[0004] 5G NR supports three RRC states: RRC Connected, RRC Inactive, and RRC Idle. The 5G NR protocol stack, including the control plane and user plane, provides connectivity between the UE and the gNB or core network (CN). On the control plane side for the version 15 inactive state, the UE has a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) connection to the CN. Additionally, the UE does not have dedicated access stratum (AS) resources, and the UE maintains its RRC configuration before entering the inactive state. On the user plane side for the version 15 inactive state, the UE cannot perform any dedicated data transmission / reception. If the UE has dedicated data transmission / reception, it should enter the connected state. Specifically, for DL ​​data transmission, the gNodeB pagees the UE via the RAN paging mechanism to trigger the UE to enter the connected state. For uplink (UL) data transmission, the UE triggers the RACH procedure to enter the connected state. Regarding mobility for the version 15 inactive state, a UE in the inactive state can move within the RNA (i.e., the RAN Notification Area) without notifying the NG-RAN. The cell selection / reselection procedure is the same as in the RRC_Idle state.

[0005] There are three common state transition scenarios between the inactive and connected states. First, the state transition from the connected state to the inactive state includes the release of RRC with pause information. The state transition from the inactive state to the connected state includes the RRC recovery process. The state transition from the inactive state to the idle state includes (1) RRC release and (2) abnormal conditions (no cell can be found for camping).

[0006] UEs with small and infrequent data transmissions are typically maintained in an RRC_inactive state by the network. Examples of small and infrequent data traffic include traffic from instant messaging services and push notifications from mobile applications. Establishing a connection and subsequently releasing it to an inactive state for each data transmission results in unnecessary power consumption and signaling overhead.

[0007] Typically, uplink or downlink (DL) transmissions are accompanied by feedback transmissions in the DL / UL (e.g., TCP ACK or RLC status report). If the UE performs the first UL transmission and then returns directly to an inactive state, the NW must perform a RAN paging to trigger the UE to return to a connected state for feedback reception when the NW transmits feedback in the downlink direction. This process eliminates the benefits of direct transmissions in the inactive state.

[0008] Therefore, an enhancement mechanism is needed to enable the UE to continue monitoring for potential NW scheduling after the first data transmission in an inactive state, thereby reducing data transmission latency and signaling overhead during state transitions. This enhancement mechanism can thus leverage the benefits of direct transmission in an inactive state. Summary of the Invention

[0009] A method of apparatus for a device is described. In an exemplary embodiment, a user equipment (UE) device having a processor is configured to perform operations including receiving a Radio Resource Control (RRC) release message from a base station. The RRC release message includes a pause configuration to transition the UE to an RRC_inactive state. Furthermore, the operation includes entering the RRC_inactive state. The operation also includes performing initial data transmission while the UE is in the RRC_inactive state without transitioning from the RRC_inactive state to the RRC_connected state. Additionally, the operation includes monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) used for UE-dedicated scheduling during an active period while the UE is in the RRC_inactive state for subsequent data transmission or reception. Furthermore, the operation includes performing subsequent data transmission or reception based on the monitoring of the PDCCH.

[0010] In some implementations, the operation also includes receiving one or more configurations from the base station for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0011] In some implementations, the one or more configurations are received as part of an RRC release message.

[0012] In some implementations, the one or more configurations are received as part of a System Information Block (SIB), which is broadcast by the base station.

[0013] In some implementations, the operation includes receiving from the base station an indication of a configuration for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data from the one or more configurations.

[0014] In some implementations, the operation further includes receiving a value for a timer for an active period. The timer value is part of one or more configurations. The operation also includes stopping monitoring of the PDCCH for subsequent data transmission or reception when the timer for the active period expires.

[0015] In some implementations, this operation includes applying a predefined configuration for the subsequent transmission or reception of data.

[0016] In some implementations, the operation includes: receiving a start indication of the activity period from the base station after initial data transmission, and stopping monitoring of the PDCCH used for the transmission or reception of subsequent data when a stop indication of the activity period is received from the base station.

[0017] In some implementations, the operation includes receiving an indication of the start of an active period from the base station after initial data transmission. The indication includes a value for a timer for the active period. The operation also includes stopping monitoring of the PDCCH used for subsequent data transmission or reception when the timer for the active period expires.

[0018] In some implementations, the start indication is Layer 1 (L1) signaling.

[0019] In some implementations, the start instruction is a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE).

[0020] In some implementations, the start indication is RRC signaling, which includes one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data.

[0021] In some implementations, this operation includes: validating a PDCCH for UE-specific scheduling during an active period based on RNTI-based TC-RNTI, I-RNTI, or CG-RNTI types for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0022] In some implementations, this operation includes monitoring UE-specific scheduling within the initial bandwidth portion (BWP) and monitoring UE-specific scheduling in the common search space for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period.

[0023] In some implementations, this operation includes receiving, after initial data transmission, an indication of the start of an active period for subsequent data transmission or reception from the base station of the current cell, as well as an indication of a measurement configuration. This measurement configuration is based on an SIB3 or SIB4 configuration associated with a UE in an idle or inactive state. The measurement configuration includes at least a predetermined threshold.

[0024] In some implementations, the operation includes receiving dedicated signaling that includes a measurement configuration for measurements during the activity period.

[0025] In some implementations, the operation includes determining whether one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met. The one or more conditions include that the radio quality of the current cell is below a predetermined threshold and the radio quality of neighboring cells is above the predetermined threshold. The operation also includes performing a neighboring cell measurement in response to determining that one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met.

[0026] In some implementations, the operation includes: triggering a measurement report in response to determining that one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met. The operation also includes: receiving a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message, wherein the dedicated RRC message triggers the UE to transition to a connected state. The operation further includes: entering the connected state; sending an RRC ResumeComplete message to the base station of the currently camped cell; receiving a handover (HO) command to initiate a handover of the UE to a neighboring cell; and sending a handover CommandComplete message to the base station of the neighboring cell.

[0027] In some implementations, the operation includes: triggering a measurement report in response to determining that one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met; and receiving a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message and an HO command to initiate a handover of the UE to a neighboring cell. The dedicated RRC message triggers the UE to transition to a connected state. This operation includes entering the connected state and sending an RRC ResumeComplete message to the base station of the neighboring cell.

[0028] In some implementations, the operation includes: triggering a measurement report in response to determining that one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met; and sending an RRC recovery request message to a base station in a neighboring cell or performing data transmission.

[0029] In some implementations, this operation includes: sending UE preferences to the base station of the current cell; receiving a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message and an HO command to initiate a handover of the UE to a neighboring cell. This dedicated RRC message triggers the UE to transition to a connected state. The operation also includes entering the connected state and sending an RRCResumeComplete message to the base station of the neighboring cell.

[0030] In another aspect of this disclosure, embodiments of this disclosure also provide a baseband processor configured to perform the processes described above. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The invention is illustrated by way of example and is not limited to the figures in the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals indicate similar elements.

[0032] Figure 1 An exemplary wireless communication system according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0033] Figure 2 A base station (BS) communicating with a user equipment (UE) device according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0034] Figure 3 An exemplary block diagram of a UE according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0035] Figure 4 An exemplary block diagram of a BS according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0036] Figure 5 An exemplary block diagram of a cellular communication circuit according to some implementation schemes is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes of the transition from RRC_Inactive state to RRC_Connected state triggered by the UE according to some implementation schemes.

[0038] Figure 7A It is a diagram of some implementation schemes based on the traditional process of some implementation schemes.

[0039] Figure 7B This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes for small data transmission based on certain implementation schemes.

[0040] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes for uplink / downlink transmission and feedback transmission based on certain schemes.

[0041] Figures 9A-9C This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes for the configuration of subsequent data transmission / reception, based on some implementation schemes.

[0042] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes of UE behavior during subsequent active periods in an inactive state, based on some implementation schemes.

[0043] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes of UE operations triggered by measurement events, based on some implementation schemes.

[0044] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes of UE operations triggered by measurement events, based on some implementation schemes.

[0045] Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes of UE operations triggered by measurement events, based on some implementation schemes.

[0046] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating some implementation schemes of UE operations triggered by measurement events, based on some implementation schemes. Detailed Implementation

[0047] A method and apparatus are described that enable a device to monitor potential network scheduling after initial data transmission when the UE is in an inactive state. The UE receives a Radio Resource Control (RRC) release message from a base station. The RRC release message includes a pause configuration to transition the UE to an RRC_inactive state. The UE enters the RRC_inactive state. While in the RRC_inactive state, the UE performs initial data transmission without transitioning from the RRC_inactive state to the RRC_connected state. While in the RRC_inactive state, the UE monitors the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) for UE-specific scheduling during the active period for subsequent data transmission or reception. The UE performs subsequent data transmission or reception based on the monitoring of the PDCCH. In this way, the UE can continue to monitor potential network scheduling after initial data transmission while in an inactive state, thereby reducing data transmission latency and signaling overhead during state transitions. Therefore, this enhancement mechanism can take advantage of data transmission benefits when the UE is inactive without transitioning from the RRC_inactive state to the RRC_connected state.

[0048] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough explanation of embodiments of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known components, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this description.

[0049] In this specification, references to "some embodiments" or "implementation" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The phrase "some embodiments" appearing in various places throughout this specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0050] In the following description and claims, the terms “coupled” and “connected” and their derivatives may be used. It should be understood that these terms are not intended to be synonymous with each other. “Coupled” is used to mean that two or more elements may or may not be in direct physical or electrical contact with each other, and cooperate or interact with each other. “Connected” is used to mean the establishment of communication between two or more elements that are coupled to each other.

[0051] The processes illustrated in the following figures are executed by processing logic, which includes hardware (e.g., circuitry, special-purpose logic, etc.), software (such as software running on a general-purpose computer system or a special-purpose machine), or a combination of both. While these processes are described below in a certain order, it should be understood that some of the operations may be performed in a different order. Furthermore, some operations may be performed in parallel rather than sequentially.

[0052] The terms “server,” “client,” and “device” are intended to refer generally to a data processing system, rather than to specific form elements of a server, client, and / or device.

[0053] Figure 1 A simplified exemplary wireless communication system according to some implementation schemes is shown. It should be noted that... Figure 1 The system described herein is merely one example of a possible system, and the features of this disclosure can be implemented in any of a variety of systems as needed.

[0054] As shown in the figure, the exemplary wireless communication system includes a base station 102A, which communicates with one or more user equipments 106A, 106B to 106N, etc., via a transmission medium. Each user equipment may be referred to herein as a "user equipment" (UE). Therefore, user equipment 106 is referred to as a UE or UE device.

[0055] Base station (BS) 102A may be a transceiver base station (BTS) or a cell site (“cellular base station”), and may include hardware that enables wireless communication with UE 106A to UE 106N.

[0056] The communication area (or coverage area) of a base station can be referred to as a "cell". Base station 102A and UE 106 can be configured to communicate via a transmission medium using any of a variety of Radio Access Technologies (RATs), also known as wireless communication technologies or telecommunications standards, such as GSM, UMTS (associated with air interfaces such as WCDMA or TD-SCDMA), LTE, LTE-A Advanced, 5G New Radio (5G-NR), HSPA, 3GPP2 CDMA2000 (e.g., 1xRTT, 1xEV-DO, HRPD, eHRPD), etc. Note that if base station 102A is implemented in an LTE environment, its alternative location can be referred to as an "eNodeB" or "eNB". Note that if base station 102A is implemented in a 5G NR environment, its alternative location can be referred to as a "gNodeB" or "gNB".

[0057] As shown in the figure, base station 102A can also be configured to communicate with network 100 (e.g., in various possibilities, the core network of a cellular service provider, telecommunications networks such as the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), and / or the Internet). Therefore, base station 102A can facilitate communication between user equipments and / or between user equipments and network 100. Specifically, cellular base station 102A can provide UE 106 with various communication capabilities such as voice, SMS, and / or data services.

[0058] Base station 102A and other similar base stations (such as base station 102B...102N) operating under the same or different cellular communication standards can thus provide a network as a cell that can provide continuous or near-continuous overlapping services over a geographical area to UE 106A to UE 106N and similar devices via one or more cellular communication standards.

[0059] Therefore, although base station 102A can act as such Figure 1 The diagram shows the "serving cells" of UEs 106A to UE 106N, but each UE 106 may also be able to receive signals (and possibly within its communication range) from one or more other cells (which may be provided by base stations 102B-N and / or any other base stations), which may be referred to as "neighboring cells". Such cells may also facilitate communication between user equipments and / or between user equipments and network 100. These cells may include "macro" cells, "micro" cells, "pecimen" cells, and / or any other cells of various other granularities providing service area size. For example, in Figure 1 Base stations 102A to 102B shown can be macro cells, while base station 102N can be a micro cell. Other configurations are also possible.

[0060] In some implementations, base station 102A may be a next-generation base station, such as a 5G New Radio (5G NR) base station or a "gNB". In some implementations, the gNB may be connected to a legacy evolved packet core (EPC) network and / or to an NR core (NRC) network. Furthermore, the gNB cell may include one or more transition and receive points (TRPs). Additionally, a UE capable of operating according to 5G NR may connect to one or more TRPs within one or more gNBs.

[0061] It should be noted that UE 106 can communicate using multiple wireless communication standards. For example, in addition to at least one cellular communication protocol (e.g., GSM, UMTS (associated with, for example, WCDMA or TD-SCDMA air interfaces), LTE, LTE-A, 5G NR, HSPA, 3GPP2 CDMA2000 (e.g., 1xRTT, 1xEV-DO, HRPD, eHRPD, etc.), UE 106 can be configured to communicate using wireless networking (e.g., Wi-Fi) and / or peer-to-peer wireless communication protocols (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi peer-to-peer, etc.). If desired, UE 106 can also or alternatively be configured to communicate using one or more Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS, such as GPS or GLONASS), one or more mobile television broadcasting standards (e.g., ATSC-M / H or DVB-H), and / or any other wireless communication protocol. Other combinations of wireless communication standards (including more than two wireless communication standards) are also possible.

[0062] Figure 2 User equipment 106A and 106B are shown that can communicate directly with each other (also known as device-to-device or sidelink). Sidelink communication can utilize dedicated sidelink channels and sidelink protocols to facilitate direct communication between devices. For example, the Physical Sidelink Control Channel (PSCCH) can be used for actual data transmission between devices, the Physical Sidelink Shared Channel (PSSCH) can be used to transmit sidelink control information (SCI), the Physical Sidelink Feedback Channel (PSFCH) can be used for HARQ feedback information, and the Physical Sidelink Broadcast Channel (PSBCH) can be used for synchronization. Additional details are discussed in other sections.

[0063] In addition, sidelink communication can be used for communication between vehicles (V2V), vehicles and infrastructure (V2I), vehicles and people (V2P), vehicles and networks (V2N), as well as other types of direct communication.

[0064] According to some implementations, UE 106A can also communicate with base station 102 via uplink and downlink communication. Each UE can be a cellular communication-capable device, such as a mobile phone, handheld device, computer, or tablet computer, or virtually any type of wireless device. UE 106A-B may include a processor configured to execute program instructions stored in memory. UE 106A-B can perform any of the methods described herein by executing such stored instructions. Alternatively or additionally, UE 106A-B may include programmable hardware elements such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) configured to perform any of the methods described herein, or any portion thereof.

[0065] UE 106A-B may include one or more antennas for communicating using one or more wireless communication protocols or technologies. In some embodiments, UE 106A-B may be configured to communicate using, for example, CDMA2000 (1xRTT / 1xEV-DO / HRPD / eHRPD) or LTE using a single shared radio component and / or GSM or LTE using a single shared radio component. The shared radio may be coupled to a single antenna or to multiple antennas (e.g., for MIMO) for performing wireless communication. Typically, the radio component may include any combination of baseband processor, analog radio frequency (RF) signal processing circuitry (e.g., including filters, mixers, oscillators, amplifiers, etc.) or digital processing circuitry (e.g., for digital modulation and other digital processing). Similarly, the radio component may use the aforementioned hardware to implement one or more receive and transmit chains. For example, UE 106A-B may share one or more portions of the receive and / or transmit chains among various wireless communication technologies such as those discussed above.

[0066] In some implementations, UE 106A-B may include separate transmit and / or receive chains (e.g., including separate antennas and other radio components) for each wireless communication protocol it is configured to use for communication. As another possibility, UE 106A-B may include one or more radio components shared among multiple wireless communication protocols, as well as one or more radio components used only by a single wireless communication protocol. For example, UE 106A-B may include shared radio components for communication using either LTE or 5G NR (or LTE or 1xRTT, or LTE or GSM), and separate radio components for communication using each of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Other configurations are also possible.

[0067] Figure 3 —UE block diagram

[0068] Figure 3 An exemplary simplified block diagram of a communication device 106 according to some embodiments is shown. It should be noted that... Figure 3 The block diagram of the communication device is merely one example of possible communication devices. According to the implementation, among other devices, the communication device 106 may be a user equipment (UE) device, a mobile device or mobile station, a wireless device or wireless station, a desktop computer or computing device, a mobile computing device (e.g., a laptop computer, notebook computer, or portable computing device), a tablet computer, and / or a combination of devices. As shown, the communication device 106 may include a set of components 300 configured to perform core functions. For example, this set of components may be implemented as a system-on-a-chip (SOC), which may include portions for various purposes. Alternatively, the set of components 300 may be implemented as individual components or groups of components for various purposes. This set of components 300 may be (e.g., communicatively; directly or indirectly) coupled to various other circuitry of the communication device 106.

[0069] For example, communication device 106 may include various types of memory (e.g., including NAND flash memory 310), input / output interfaces such as connector I / F 320 (e.g., for connection to a computer system; docking station; charging station; input devices such as microphone, camera, keyboard; output devices such as speaker; etc.), a display 360 that may be integrated with or external to communication device 106, and cellular communication circuitry 330 such as for 5G NR, LTE, GSM, etc., and short- to medium-range wireless communication circuitry 329 (e.g., Bluetooth). ™ (and WLAN circuitry). In some embodiments, the communication device 106 may include wired communication circuitry (not shown), such as, for example, a network interface card for Ethernet.

[0070] Cellular communication circuitry 330 may be coupled (e.g., communicatively grounded; directly or indirectly) to one or more antennas, such as antennas 335 and 336 shown. Short-to-medium-range wireless communication circuitry 329 may also be coupled (e.g., communicatively grounded; directly or indirectly) to one or more antennas, such as antennas 337 and 338 shown. Alternatively, short-to-medium-range wireless communication circuitry 329 may be coupled (e.g., communicatively grounded; directly or indirectly) to antennas 337 and 338, or as an alternative, to antennas 335 and 336. Short-to-medium-range wireless communication circuitry 329 and / or cellular communication circuitry 330 may include multiple receive chains and / or multiple transmit chains for receiving and / or transmitting multiple spatial streams, such as in a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) configuration.

[0071] In some embodiments, as further described below, the cellular communication circuit 330 may include dedicated receive chains for multiple RATs (including and / or coupled to (e.g., communication ground; directly or indirectly) dedicated processors and / or radio components) (e.g., a first receive chain for LTE and a second receive chain for 5G-NR). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the cellular communication circuit 330 may include a single transmit chain that can be switched between radio components dedicated to a particular RAT. For example, a first radio component may be dedicated to a first RAT, such as LTE, and may communicate with a dedicated receive chain and a transmit chain shared with additional radio components, such as a second radio component that may be dedicated to a second RAT (e.g., 5G NR) and may communicate with a dedicated receive chain and a shared transmit chain.

[0072] The communication device 106 may also include one or more user interface elements and / or be configured to be used with one or more user interface elements. User interface elements may include any of a variety of components such as a display 360 (which may be a touch screen display), a keyboard (which may be a separate keyboard or may be implemented as part of the touch screen display), a mouse, a microphone and / or a speaker, one or more cameras, one or more buttons, and / or any of a variety of other components capable of providing information to the user and / or receiving or interpreting user input.

[0073] The communication device 106 may also include one or more smart cards 345 with SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) functionality, such as one or more UICC cards (one or more Universal Integrated Circuit Cards) 345.

[0074] As shown in the figure, the SOC 300 may include a processor 302 and a display circuit 304. The processor executes program instructions for the communication device 106, and the display circuit performs graphics processing and provides display signals to the display 360. The processor 302 may also be coupled to a memory management unit (MMU) 340 (which may be configured to receive addresses from the processor 302 and translate those addresses into locations in memory (e.g., memory 306, read-only memory (ROM) 350, NAND flash memory 310)) and / or coupled to other circuitry or devices (such as the display circuit 304, short-range wireless communication circuitry 229, cellular communication circuitry 330, connector I / F 320, and / or display 360). The MMU 340 may be configured to perform memory protection and page table translation or setup. In some embodiments, the MMU 340 may be included as part of the processor 302.

[0075] As described above, communication device 106 can be configured to communicate using wireless and / or wired communication circuits. Communication device 106 can also be configured to determine physical downlink shared channel scheduling resources for user equipment and base stations. Furthermore, communication device 106 can be configured to select and group CCs from the wireless link, and determine virtual CCs from the selected CC groups. The wireless device can also be configured to perform physical downlink resource mapping based on an aggregation resource matching mode for CC groups.

[0076] As described herein, communication device 106 may include hardware and software components for implementing the aforementioned features for determining physical downlink shared channel scheduling resources for communication device 106 and a base station. For example, by executing program instructions stored on a memory medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium), processor 302 of communication device 106 may be configured to implement some or all of the features described herein. Alternatively (or otherwise), processor 302 may be configured as a programmable hardware element, such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). Alternatively (or otherwise), in conjunction with one or more of other components 300, 304, 306, 310, 320, 329, 330, 340, 345, 350, 360, processor 302 of communication device 106 may be configured to implement some or all of the features described herein.

[0077] Furthermore, as described in this invention, processor 302 may include one or more processing elements. Therefore, processor 302 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to perform the functions of processor 302. Additionally, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of one or more processors 302.

[0078] Furthermore, as described herein, both the cellular communication circuit 330 and the short-range wireless communication circuit 329 may include one or more processing elements. In other words, one or more processing elements may be included in the cellular communication circuit 330, and similarly, one or more processing elements may be included in the short-range wireless communication circuit 329. Therefore, the cellular communication circuit 330 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to perform the functions of the cellular communication circuit 330. Furthermore, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of the cellular communication circuit 330. Similarly, the short-range wireless communication circuit 329 may include one or more ICs configured to perform the functions of the short-range wireless communication circuit 329. Furthermore, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of the short-range wireless communication circuit 329.

[0079] Figure 4 —Block diagram of a base station

[0080] Figure 4 An exemplary block diagram of a base station 102 according to some embodiments is shown. It should be noted that... Figure 4 The base station shown is merely one example of a possible base station. As illustrated, base station 102 may include a processor 404 capable of executing program instructions for base station 102. Processor 404 may also be coupled to a memory management unit (MMU) 440 or other circuitry or device, which may be configured to receive addresses from processor 404 and translate those addresses into locations in memory (e.g., memory 460 and read-only memory (ROM) 450).

[0081] Base station 102 may include at least one network port 470. Network port 470 may be configured to be coupled to a telephone network and provide access rights as described above. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The telephone network described herein includes multiple devices such as UE device 106.

[0082] Network port 470 (or an additional network port) may also be configured, or alternatively configured, to be coupled to a cellular network, such as the core network of a cellular service provider. The core network may provide mobility-related services and / or other services to multiple devices, such as UE device 106. In some cases, network port 470 may be coupled to a telephone network via the core network, and / or the core network may provide a telephone network (e.g., in other UE devices served by the cellular service provider).

[0083] In some implementations, base station 102 may be a next-generation base station, such as a 5G New Radio (5G NR) base station, or "gNB". In such implementations, base station 102 may be connected to a legacy evolved packet core (EPC) network and / or to an NR core (NRC) network. Furthermore, base station 102 may be considered a 5G NR cell and may include one or more transition and receive points (TRPs). Additionally, UEs capable of operating according to 5G NR may connect to one or more TRPs within one or more gNBs.

[0084] Base station 102 may include at least one antenna 434 and possibly multiple antennas. The at least one antenna 434 may be configured to function as a wireless transceiver and may be further configured to communicate with UE device 106 via radio component 430. Antenna 434 communicates with radio component 430 via communication link 432. Communication link 432 may be a receive link, a transmit link, or both. Radio component 430 may be configured to communicate via various wireless communication standards, including but not limited to 5G NR, LTE, LTE-A, GSM, UMTS, CDMA2000, Wi-Fi, etc.

[0085] Base station 102 can be configured to perform wireless communication using multiple wireless communication standards. In some cases, base station 102 may include multiple radios that enable base station 102 to communicate according to multiple wireless communication technologies. For example, as one possibility, base station 102 may include an LTE radio component for performing communication according to LTE and a 5G NR radio component for performing communication according to 5G NR. In this case, base station 102 may be able to operate as both an LTE base station and a 5G NR base station. As another possibility, base station 102 may include a multimode radio component capable of performing communication according to any of multiple wireless communication technologies (e.g., 5G NR and Wi-Fi, LTE and Wi-Fi, LTE and UMTS, LTE and CDMA2000, UMTS and GSM, etc.).

[0086] As further described herein, BS 102 may include hardware and software components for implementing or supporting specific implementations of the features described herein. The processor 404 of base station 102 may be configured to implement or support some or all of the methods described herein, for example, by executing program instructions stored on a memory medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium). Alternatively, processor 404 may be configured as a programmable hardware element such as a FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or as an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit), or a combination thereof. Alternatively (or in addition), in conjunction with one or more of other components 430, 432, 434, 440, 450, 460, and 470, the processor 404 of base station 102 may be configured to implement or support some or all of the features described herein.

[0087] Furthermore, as described herein, processor 404 may comprise one or more processing elements. In other words, one or more processing elements may be included in processor 404. Therefore, processor 404 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to perform the functions of processor 404. Additionally, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of one or more processors 404.

[0088] Additionally, as described herein, the radio component 430 may comprise one or more processing elements. In other words, one or more processing elements may be included in the radio component 430. Therefore, the radio component 430 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to perform the functions of the radio component 430. Furthermore, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of the radio component 430.

[0089] Figure 5 Block diagram of cellular communication circuit

[0090] Figure 5 An exemplary simplified block diagram of a cellular communication circuit according to some embodiments is shown. It should be noted that... Figure 5 The block diagram of the cellular communication circuit is merely one example of a possible cellular communication circuit. According to the implementation, the cellular communication circuit 330 may be included in a communication device such as the communication device 106 described above. As mentioned above, among other devices, the communication device 106 may be a user equipment (UE) device, a mobile device or mobile station, a wireless device or wireless station, a desktop computer or computing device, a mobile computing device (e.g., a laptop computer, notebook computer, or portable computing device), a tablet computer, and / or a combination of these devices.

[0091] Cellular communication circuit 330 may (e.g., communicatively; directly or indirectly) be coupled to one or more antennas, such as ( Figure 3 Antennas 335 ab and 336 are shown in the diagram. In some embodiments, the cellular communication circuitry 330 may include dedicated receive chains for multiple RATs (including and / or coupled to (e.g., communication ground; directly or indirectly) dedicated processors and / or radio components) (e.g., a first receive chain for LTE and a second receive chain for 5G-NR). For example, as shown... Figure 5 As shown, the cellular communication circuit 330 may include a modem 510 and a modem 520. The modem 510 may be configured for communication according to a first RAT (such as LTE or LTE-A), and the modem 520 may be configured for communication according to a second RAT (such as 5G NR).

[0092] As shown, modem 510 may include one or more processors 512 and memory 516 communicating with processors 512. Modem 510 may communicate with radio frequency (RF) front end 530. RF front end 530 may include circuitry for transmitting and receiving radio signals. For example, RF front end 530 may include receiver circuitry (RX) 532 and transmitter circuitry (TX) 534. In some embodiments, receiver circuitry 532 may communicate with downlink (DL) front end 550, which may include circuitry for receiving radio signals via antenna 335a.

[0093] Similarly, modem 520 may include one or more processors 522 and memory 526 communicating with processor 522. Modem 520 may communicate with RF front end 540. RF front end 540 may include circuitry for transmitting and receiving radio signals. For example, RF front end 540 may include receiving circuitry 542 and transmitting circuitry 544. In some embodiments, receiving circuitry 542 may communicate with DL front end 560, which may include circuitry for receiving radio signals via antenna 335b.

[0094] In some implementations, switch 570 may couple transmitting circuitry 534 to uplink (UL) front-end 572. Additionally, switch 570 may couple transmitting circuitry 544 to UL front-end 572. UL front-end 572 may include circuitry for transmitting radio signals via antenna 336. Therefore, when cellular communication circuitry 330 receives an instruction to transmit according to a first RAT (e.g., supported by modem 510), switch 570 may be switched to a first state allowing modem 510 to transmit signals according to the first RAT (e.g., via a transmission chain including transmitting circuitry 534 and UL front-end 572). Similarly, when cellular communication circuitry 330 receives an instruction to transmit according to a second RAT (e.g., supported by modem 520), switch 570 may be switched to a second state allowing modem 520 to transmit signals according to the second RAT (e.g., via a transmission chain including transmitting circuitry 544 and UL front-end 572).

[0095] As described herein, modem 510 may include hardware and software components for implementing the features described above or for selecting periodic resource portions for user equipment equipment and base stations, as well as for various other technologies described herein. For example, processor 512 may be configured to implement some or all of the features described herein by executing program instructions stored on a memory medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium). Alternatively (or otherwise), processor 512 may be configured as a programmable hardware element such as a FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or as an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). Alternatively (or otherwise), processor 512 may be configured to implement some or all of the features described herein by combining with one or more of other components 530, 532, 534, 550, 570, 572, 335, and 336.

[0096] Furthermore, as described herein, processor 512 may include one or more processing elements. Therefore, processor 512 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to perform the functions of processor 512. Additionally, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of processor 512.

[0097] As described herein, modem 520 may include hardware and software components for implementing the features described above or for selecting periodic resource portions on a radio link between the UE and a base station, as well as various other technologies described herein. For example, processor 522 may be configured to implement some or all of the features described herein by executing program instructions stored on a memory medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable memory medium). Alternatively (or otherwise), processor 522 may be configured as a programmable hardware element such as a FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or as an ASIC (Application-Specific Integrated Circuit). Alternatively (or additionally), processor 522 may be configured to implement some or all of the features described herein by combining with one or more of other components 540, 542, 544, 550, 570, 572, 335, and 336.

[0098] Furthermore, as described herein, processor 522 may include one or more processing elements. Therefore, processor 522 may include one or more integrated circuits (ICs) configured to perform the functions of processor 522. Additionally, each integrated circuit may include circuitry (e.g., a first circuit, a second circuit, etc.) configured to perform the functions of processor 522.

[0099] Figure 6The diagram illustrates a state transition from RRC_Inactive state 610 to RRC_Connected state 620 triggered by a UE (e.g., 602). The RRC_Inactive state 610 hides the radio connection state from the core network to reduce signaling overhead and tunnel establishment between the radio network and the core network. For example, in a smartphone, even when the smartphone screen is off, background applications such as instant messaging software continue to exchange data with the network to maintain a connection as active on a frequent basis.

[0100] The network (e.g., 604) can use an RRC release message including "suspendConfig" to instruct UE 602 to transition to the RRC_inactive state 610. When the UE needs to transition from the RRC_inactive state 610 to the RRC_connected state 620, the resumption of the suspended RRC connection can be initiated by an upper layer or by the RRC layer to perform an RNA update, or by a RAN paging from the NG-RAN. This RRC connection restoration process reactivates AS security and re-establishes the SRB and DRB.

[0101] For example, when UE 602 has uplink data, in response to paging, the UE triggers a transition from the RRC_Inactive state 610 to the RRC_Connected state 620. When UE 602 is in the RRC_Inactive state, the UE triggers the RRC connection reactivation process by sending an RRCResumeRequest to the network (e.g., base station or gNB 604). During the RRC_Inactive state, UE 602 remains CM-Connected. Upon receiving the RRCResumeRequest 612, the network 604 retrieves the UE context request 616 based on the UE context ID, performs the necessary mobility actions, and responds using the UE context response 618. Upon receiving the RRCResume 614, UE 602 confirms the successful completion of the RRC connection restoration process by sending an RRCResumeComplete (DCCH) message 622 on SRB1 using AM mode.

[0102] Figure 7B This illustrates the conventional procedure for subsequent data transmission 710 when UE 702 is in an inactive state 706 (e.g., Figure 7ACompared to the conventional process, the implementation scheme 700 described in this disclosure is an enhancement. Contrary to the conventional process, when the UE 702 is in an inactive state after the initial data transmission 708, the implementation scheme 700 described in this disclosure can be used for subsequent transmissions 710, thereby avoiding the network 704 performing RAN paging to trigger the UE 702 to enter a connected state for feedback reception. The described implementation scheme 700 allows data (e.g., small data) transmission in the RRC inactive state without requiring a state transition to the RRC connected state. In this way, UE energy efficiency can be improved when transmitting small data in the RRC inactive state.

[0103] like Figure 8 As shown, uplink (UL) or downlink data transmission is accompanied by feedback transmission (e.g., TCP ACK or RLC status report). If UE 802 performs an initial UL transmission while in an inactive state, it then returns to an inactive state. After the UE returns to an inactive state, when the network transmits feedback in the downlink direction, the network must perform a RAN paging to trigger the UE to enter a connected state for feedback reception. This process undermines the benefits of direct transmission in the inactive state. In contrast, the implementation described herein allows the UE to continue monitoring the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) for UE-specific scheduling for a period of time (i.e., an active period) after the UE performs the initial uplink (UL) data transmission for potential subsequent data transmission or reception. The network can control subsequent data transmission or reception based on explicit configuration or timer-based controls.

[0104] Figure 9A Communication flow 900 between UE 902 and network 904 according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, for example, UE 902 receives a Radio Resource Control (RRC) release message from base station 904 at 906. The RRC release message includes a pause configuration to transition the UE to an RRC_inactive state 908. After receiving the RRC release message, UE 902 enters the RRC_inactive state 908. Then, while the UE is in the RRC_inactive state 908, UE 902 performs initial data transmission at 910 without transitioning from the RRC_inactive state to the RRC_connected state. While the UE is in the RRC_inactive state 908, UE 902 monitors the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) used for UE-dedicated scheduling during active period 912 for subsequent data transmission or reception. Thereafter, UE 902 performs subsequent data transmission or reception based on the monitoring of the PDCCH.

[0105] In some other implementations, base station 904 receives initial data from UE 902 in RRC_Inactive 908, while UE 902 does not transition from RRC_Inactive 908 to RRC_Connected 902. While UE 902 is in RRC_Inactive 908, base station 904 transmits a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) for UE-dedicated scheduling during active period 912 for subsequent data transmission or reception. Base station 904 receives or transmits this subsequent data transmission based on this dedicated scheduling.

[0106] In some other implementations, base station 904 transmits an indication from one or more of the configurations for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data.

[0107] Figure 9B Communication flow 920 between UE 902 and network 904 according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, UE 902 receives one or more configurations from base station 904 for subsequent data transmission or reception. In these embodiments, at 922, one or more configurations are received as part of an RRC release message. In these embodiments, at 924, one or more configurations are also received as part of a System Information Block (SIB). The SIB is broadcast by base station 904.

[0108] In some implementations, the UE receives from the base station an indication of a configuration from one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data.

[0109] Figure 9C Communication flow 940 between UE 902 and network 904 according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, UE 902 receives the value of timer 924 for an active period at 942. The value of timer 924 is part of one or more configurations. UE 902 then stops monitoring the PDCCH for subsequent data transmission or reception when timer 924 for the active period expires.

[0110] In some implementations, UE 902 applies a predefined configuration for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0111] In some implementation schemes (see) Figure 9A After initial data transmission at 910, UE 902 receives an indication of the start of an active period from base station 904 at 914. When it receives an indication of the end of an active period from base station 904 at 916, UE 902 stops monitoring the PDCCH used for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0112] In some implementation schemes (see) Figure 9CAfter initial data transmission, UE 902 receives an active period start indication from the base station. This start indication includes the value of timer 924 for the active period. When timer 924 for the active period expires, the UE stops monitoring the PDCCH for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0113] In some implementations, base station 904 transmits an indication of the start of an active period from the base station after initial data transmission. Monitoring of the PDCCH used for subsequent data transmission or reception ceases when an indication of the end of the active period is received at the UE.

[0114] In some implementations, base station 904 transmits an active period start indication to the UE after initial data transmission. This start indication includes the value of a timer for the active period. Monitoring of the PDCCH used for subsequent data transmission or reception ceases when the timer for the active period expires.

[0115] In some implementations, the start indication is Layer 1 (L1) signaling.

[0116] In some other implementations, the start instruction is a Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE).

[0117] In some implementations, the start indication is RRC signaling. The RRC signaling includes one or more configurations for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0118] In some implementations, the baseband 904 scrambles the PDCCH used for UE-specific scheduling during the active period based on the RNTI-based TC-RNTI, I-RNTI, or CG-RNTI type for subsequent data transmission or reception.

[0119] In some implementations, the UE verifies the PDCCH for UE-specific scheduling during the active period based on the TC-RNTI type, I-RNTI type, or CG-RNTI type of the RNTI for subsequent data transmission or reception. The UE behavior during the active period is the same as in the conventional connected mode. For example, UE-specific scheduling can be scrambled via one or more RNTIs. (1) TC-RNTI (assigned by the network via the initial transmission), (2) I-RNTI or a truncated I-RNTI, and (3) CG-RNTI (if the initial transmission is performed via pre-CG resources based on one or more pre-CG configurations). One or more pre-CG configurations refer to pre-configured Physical Uplink Shared Channel (PUSCH) resource configurations.

[0120] In some implementations, the UE monitors UE-dedicated scheduling within the initial bandwidth portion (BWP). The UE also monitors UE-dedicated scheduling for subsequent data transmission or reception within the common search space during the active period.

[0121] When the UE is active, its Layer 1 (L1) behavior is the same as in the traditional connected mode configuration. L1 does not support CA / DC, but it does support Nta maintenance, power control, L1 CSI reporting, L1 ACK / NACK, BFD, etc. Transmissions are restricted to the initial BWP, and / or PDCCH scheduling is limited to the common search space to reduce UE complexity.

[0122] L2 behavior during UE activity periods is the same as in traditional connected mode. MAC: BSR, PHR, DRX, UL / DL HARQ, TA, CG / SPS, new LCP restrictions. For RLC / PDCP: copy / split bearer is not supported. SDAP follows traditional connected mode.

[0123] For serving cell measurements, the measurement requirements are similar to those in connected mode, with optional support for L3 filters and optional measurement reporting. For neighboring cell measurements, the requirements are the same as for traditional idle / inactive measurements.

[0124] In some implementations, the RLM process is the same as the connected mode RLM process.

[0125] In some other implementations, it does not support RLM or is configuration-based.

[0126] Figure 11 Communication flow 1100 between UE 1102 and a base station according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, at 1108, UE 1102 receives from the base station of the current cell 1104 an indication of the start of an active period for subsequent data transmission or reception, as well as an indication of a measurement configuration, after initial data transmission. This measurement configuration is based on an SIB3 or SIB4 configuration associated with a UE in an idle or inactive state. The measurement configuration includes at least a predetermined threshold.

[0127] In some implementations, the UE receives dedicated signaling that includes measurement configurations for measurements during the active period.

[0128] Figure 10The communication flow 1000 between UE 1002 and the base station is illustrated. In some implementations, the UE maintains RLM and idle / inactive state measurements 1010. For example, if the UE's radio quality falls below a threshold (or an RLF is triggered), UE 1002 triggers a recovery procedure at 1008. If UE 1002 moves to another cell 1006, UE 1002 triggers a recovery procedure / direct data transmission in the newly accessed cell 1006 at 1012.

[0129] Figure 11 The communication flow 1100 between UE 1102 and the base station is illustrated. In some embodiments, UE 1102 determines whether one or more conditions 1110 for triggering a measurement event are met, said one or more conditions 1110 including: the radio quality of the current cell is below a predetermined threshold, and the radio quality of neighboring cells is above the predetermined threshold. In response to determining that one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met, UE 1102 performs neighboring cell measurements.

[0130] In some implementations, at 1112, UE 1102 triggers a measurement report in response to determining that one or more conditions for triggering a measurement event are met. At 1114, a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message is received. This dedicated RRC message triggers UE 1102 to transition to the connected state 1116. UE 1102 enters the connected state 1116. At 1118, UE 1102 transmits an RRC ResumeComplete message to the base station of its currently camped cell 1104. At 1120, UE 1102 receives a handover (HO) command to initiate a handover of UE 1102 to the neighboring cell 1106. At 1122, UE 1102 transmits a handover CommandComplete message to the base station of the neighboring cell 1106.

[0131] Figure 12 The communication flow 1200 between UE 1202 and a base station according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, at 1208, UE 1202 triggers a measurement report in response to determining that one or more conditions 1212 for triggering a measurement event are met. At 1210, UE 1202 receives a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message and an HO command to initiate a handover of UE 1202 to neighboring cell 1206. The dedicated RRC message triggers UE 1202 to transition to a connected state 1214. UE 1202 enters the connected state 1214. At 1216, UE 1202 transmits an RRC ResumeComplete message to the base station of neighboring cell 1206.

[0132] Figure 13The communication flow 1300 between UE 1302 and a base station according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, UE 1302 directly performs cell reselection in response to determining that one or more conditions 1308 for triggering a measurement event are met. At 1310, UE 1302 transmits an RRC recovery request message to the base station of neighboring cell 1306 or performs data transmission.

[0133] Figure 14 The communication flow 1400 between UE 1402 and a base station according to some embodiments is illustrated. In some embodiments, at 1408, UE 1402 transmits UE preferences to the base station of the current cell 1404. At 1410, the UE receives a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message and an HO command to initiate a handover of UE 1402 to the neighboring cell 1406. The dedicated RRC message triggers UE 1402 to transition to the connected state 1412. The UE enters the connected state. UE 1402 transmits an RRC ResumeComplete message to the base station of the neighboring cell 1406.

[0134] In some implementations, the processes or methods depicted in the previous figures may be performed by a user equipment (UE) device that includes a processor.

[0135] In some other implementations, the process or method depicted in the previous figures may be executed by a baseband processor.

[0136] Parts of the content described above can be implemented using logic circuits such as dedicated logic circuits or using microcontrollers or other forms of processing cores that execute program code instructions. Thus, the processes taught in the above discussion can be executed using program code such as machine-executable instructions, which cause the machine to execute these instructions to perform certain functions. In this context, "machine" can be a machine that translates intermediate (or "abstract") instructions into processor-specific instructions (e.g., abstract execution environments such as "virtual machines" (e.g., Java Virtual Machines), interpreters, Common Language Runtimes, high-level language virtual machines, etc.), and / or electronic circuits disposed on semiconductor chips (e.g., "logic circuits" implemented using transistors) designed to execute instructions, such as general-purpose processors and / or dedicated processors. The processes taught in the above discussion can also be executed (as an alternative to or in conjunction with a machine) by electronic circuits designed to execute processes (or parts thereof) without executing program code.

[0137] The present invention also relates to an apparatus for performing the operations described herein. This apparatus may be specifically configured for a desired purpose, or may comprise a general-purpose computer selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in a computer. Such a computer program may be stored in a computer-readable storage medium, such as, but not limited to, any type of disk, including floppy disks, optical disks, CD-ROMs and magneto-optical disks, read-only memory (ROM), RAM, EPROM, EEPROM, magnetic cards or optical cards, or any type of medium suitable for storing electronic instructions, and each of which is coupled to a computer system bus.

[0138] Machine-readable media include any mechanism that stores or transmits information in a machine-readable (e.g., computer) form. For example, machine-readable media include read-only memory (“ROM”); random access memory (“RAM”); magnetic disk storage media; optical storage media; flash memory devices; and so on.

[0139] The article of manufacture may be used to store program code. The article of manufacture storing program code may be implemented as, but is not limited to, one or more memories (e.g., one or more flash memories, random access memory (static, dynamic, or other)), optical discs, CD-ROMs, DVD-ROMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic cards or optical cards, or other types of machine-readable media suitable for storing electronic instructions. Program code may also be downloaded from a remote computer (e.g., a server) to a requesting computer (e.g., a client) by means of data signals contained in a transmission medium (e.g., via a communication link (e.g., a network connection)).

[0140] The foregoing detailed description has been presented according to the algorithms and symbolic representations used to manipulate data bits within computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions and representations are tools used by those skilled in the art of data processing, and these tools are also the most effective means of communicating the essence of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm here and generally refers to a self-consistent sequence of operations that leads to a desired result. These operations are those that require physical manipulation of physical quantities. Often, but not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals that can be stored, transmitted, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It has proven convenient to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, etc., primarily for general reasons.

[0141] However, it should be remembered that all these and similar terms are associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to those quantities. Unless otherwise specifically stated, it is evident from the foregoing discussion that throughout this specification, the use of terms such as “select,” “determine,” “receive,” “form,” “group,” “aggregate,” “generate,” “remove,” etc., refers to the actions and processing of computer systems or similar electronic computing devices that can manipulate data represented as physical (electronic) quantities in the registers and memories of the computer system and convert them into other data similarly represented as physical quantities in the computer system's memory or registers or other such information storage, transmission, or display devices.

[0142] The processes and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other device. Various general-purpose systems can be used with programs based on the teachings herein, or can prove convenient for constructing more specialized devices to perform the operations described herein. The necessary structures for various such systems will be apparent from the description below. Furthermore, the invention is not described with reference to any particular programming language. It should be understood that various programming languages ​​can be used to implement the teachings of the invention as described herein.

[0143] As is widely recognized, the use of personally identifiable information should comply with privacy policies and practices that are generally accepted to meet or exceed industry or governmental requirements for protecting user privacy. Specifically, personally identifiable information data should be managed and processed to minimize the risk of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly explained to users.

[0144] The foregoing discussion has only described some exemplary embodiments of the invention. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from these discussions, drawings, and claims that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A base station, the base station comprising: antenna; Memory; A radio frequency (RF) circuit, which is communicatively coupled to the antenna; and A processor configured to perform operations including: Transmit a Radio Resource Control (RRC) release message to a User Equipment (UE), wherein the RRC release message includes a pause configuration for transitioning the UE to an RRC inactive state, and the RRC release message includes one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period; The transmission includes dedicated signaling for measurement configurations to be performed during the active period, wherein the UE is in the RRC inactive state during the active period; When the UE is in the RRC inactive state, the initial data transmission is received from the UE; When the UE is in the RRC inactive state, a Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) for UE-dedicated scheduling is transmitted based on one or more of the configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period; and The subsequent data transmission or reception is performed based on the UE-specific scheduling.

2. The base station according to claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: Transmit to the UE the configuration of one or more of the configurations for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data.

3. The base station of claim 1, wherein the one or more configurations are further transmitted as part of a System Information Block (SIB), wherein the SIB is broadcast by the base station.

4. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: Transmit a start indication of the activity period to the UE for the UE to monitor the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of subsequent data; and A stop indication is transmitted for the activity period so that the UE stops monitoring the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of subsequent data.

5. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: Transmit the value of a timer for the activity period, wherein the value of the timer is part of one or more configurations, wherein when the timer expires, the UE stops monitoring the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data.

6. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: After the initial data transmission, the UE transmits a start indication of the activity period from the base station, wherein the start indication includes a value of a timer for the activity period, and when the timer expires, the UE stops monitoring the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data.

7. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: The PDCCH used for UE-specific scheduling is scrambled based on the Temporary Cell RNTI (TC-RNTI), Inactive RNTI (I-RNTI), or Configuration Grant RNTI (CG-RNTI) type of Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period.

8. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: The transmission includes dedicated signaling for measurement configurations used during the activity period.

9. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: The transmission or reception of the active period following the initial data transmission for the subsequent data is indicated by a start indication of the measurement configuration, wherein the measurement configuration is based on a System Information Block 3 (SIB3) or SIB4 configuration associated with the UE in an RRC idle or RRC inactive state, and wherein the measurement configuration includes at least a predetermined threshold associated with radio quality for triggering a measurement event.

10. The base station of claim 9, wherein one or more conditions for triggering the measurement event include: The radio quality of the current cell of the base station is lower than the predetermined threshold and the radio quality of the neighboring cells is higher than the predetermined threshold, wherein the measurement event is a neighboring cell measurement.

11. The base station of claim 10, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: A measurement report is received in response to the satisfaction of one or more conditions used to trigger a measurement event; Transmit a dedicated RRC message including an RRC recovery message, wherein the dedicated RRC message triggers the UE to switch to an RRC connected state; Receive an RRC ResumeComplete message, wherein the base station is the base station of the cell where the UE is currently camped; and Transmit a handover (HO) command to initiate the handover of the UE to a neighboring cell.

12. The base station of claim 10, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: In response to the satisfaction of one or more conditions used to trigger a measurement event, a measurement report is received; and A dedicated RRC message, including an RRC recovery message and an HO command, is transmitted to initiate the handover of the UE to a neighboring cell, wherein the dedicated RRC message triggers the UE to switch to an RRC connected state.

13. The base station of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to perform operations including: Receive the UE preference of the current cell of the base station; and A dedicated RRC message, including an RRC recovery message and a handover (HO) command, is transmitted to initiate the handover of the UE to a neighboring cell, wherein the dedicated RRC message triggers the UE to switch to an RRC connected state.

14. A baseband processor for a base station in a wireless communication system, the baseband processor being configured to perform operations including: Transmit a Radio Resource Control (RRC) release message to a User Equipment (UE), wherein the RRC release message includes a pause configuration for transitioning the UE to an RRC inactive state, and the RRC release message includes one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period; The transmission includes dedicated signaling for measurement configurations to be performed during the active period, wherein the UE is in the RRC inactive state during the active period; When the UE is in the RRC inactive state, the initial data transmission is received from the UE; When the UE is in the RRC inactive state, a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) for UE-dedicated scheduling is transmitted based on one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period; as well as The subsequent data transmission or reception is performed based on the UE-specific scheduling.

15. The baseband processor of claim 14, wherein the one or more configurations are further transmitted as part of a System Information Block (SIB), wherein the SIB is broadcast by the base station.

16. The baseband processor of claim 14, wherein the baseband processor is further configured to perform operations including: Transmit a start indication of the activity period to the UE for the UE to monitor the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of subsequent data; and A stop indication is transmitted for the activity period so that the UE stops monitoring the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of subsequent data.

17. The baseband processor of claim 14, wherein the baseband processor is further configured to perform operations including: After the initial data transmission, a start indication of the activity period is transmitted, wherein the start indication includes a value of a timer for the activity period, and when the timer expires, the UE stops monitoring the PDCCH for the transmission or reception of the subsequent data.

18. The baseband processor of claim 14, wherein the baseband processor is further configured to perform operations including: The PDCCH used for UE-specific scheduling is scrambled based on the Temporary Cell RNTI (TC-RNTI), Inactive RNTI (I-RNTI), or Configuration Grant RNTI (CG-RNTI) type of Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period.

19. The baseband processor of claim 14, wherein the baseband processor is further configured to perform operations including: The transmission includes an indication of the start of the active period for transmitting or receiving subsequent data after the initial data transmission, and an indication of a measurement configuration, wherein the measurement configuration is based on a System Information Block 3 (SIB3) or SIB4 configuration associated with the UE in an RRC idle or RRC inactive state, and wherein the measurement configuration includes at least a predetermined threshold associated with radio quality for triggering a measurement event. One or more conditions used to trigger a measurement event include: The radio quality of the current cell of the base station is lower than the predetermined threshold and the radio quality of the neighboring cells is higher than the predetermined threshold, wherein the measurement event is a neighboring cell measurement.

20. A method performed by a base station, the method comprising: Transmit a Radio Resource Control (RRC) release message to a User Equipment (UE), wherein the RRC release message includes a pause configuration for transitioning the UE to an RRC inactive state, and the RRC release message includes one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period; The transmission includes dedicated signaling for measurement configurations to be performed during the active period, wherein the UE is in the RRC inactive state during the active period; When the UE is in the RRC inactive state, the initial data transmission is received from the UE; When the UE is in the RRC inactive state, a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) for UE-dedicated scheduling is transmitted based on one or more configurations for the transmission or reception of subsequent data during the active period; as well as The subsequent data transmission or reception is performed based on the UE-specific scheduling.

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