Notification process handling during discontinuous coverage waiting timer run

Abstract

In one aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus may be a user equipment (UE). When returning from no coverage to coverage due to experiencing discontinuous coverage, the user equipment starts a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer having a random value that does not exceed the maximum time offset value at most. During operation of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, the user equipment receives a notification message from the network. In response to receiving the notification message, the user equipment stops the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer. Subsequently, the user equipment initiates a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling in response to the notification message, and then, the user equipment initiates a non-access stratum (NAS) signaling in response to the notification message.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing

[0002] This application declares priority by reference to Indian Patent Application No. 202321061016, entitled “Notification procedure processing during discontinuous coverage wait timer operation”, filed on 11 September 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to communication systems, and more specifically, to techniques for processing notification flows in user equipment (UE), particularly during the operation of a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer. Background Technology

[0004] The statements in this section provide only background information in connection with this disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0005] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide a variety of telecommunications services, such as telephone, video, data, messaging, and broadcasting. Typical wireless communication systems employ various multi-user access technologies, supporting communication with multiple users by sharing available system resources. Examples of such multi-user access technologies include code division multiple access (CDMA) systems, time division multiple access (TDMA) systems, frequency division multiple access (FDMA) systems, orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA) systems, single-carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA) systems, and time division synchronous code division multiple access (TD-SCDMA) systems.

[0006] These multi-user access technologies have been adopted in various telecommunication standards to provide a common protocol that enables different wireless devices to communicate on a municipal, national, regional, and even global level. An example of a telecommunication standard is Fifth Generation New Radio (5G NR). 5G NR is part of a continuous mobile broadband evolution promulgated by Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to meet new requirements associated with latency, reliability, security, scalability (e.g., with Internet of Things (IoT)), and other SUMMARY

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more aspects in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of all aspects nor delineate the scope of any or all aspects. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0008] In one aspect of the disclosure, a method, a computer readable medium, and an apparatus are provided. The apparatus can be a User Equipment (UE). When returning to coverage from out of coverage due to experiencing discontinuous coverage, the UE starts a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer with a random value that is not more than a maximum time offset value. During the running of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, the UE receives a notification message from the network. In response to receiving the notification message, the UE stops the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer. Subsequently, the UE initiates Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling in response to the notification message.

[0009] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, one or more aspects comprise the features hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims. The following description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative features of the one or more aspects. These features are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of various aspects can be employed. This description is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 A schematic diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system and an access network.

[0011] Figure 2 FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a downlink-centric slot.

[0012] Figure 3 FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a distributed access network.

[0013] Figure 4 FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a distributed access network.

[0014] Figure 5 FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an uplink-centric slot.

[0015] Figure 6 FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a wireless communication system.

[0016] Figure 7 FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a user equipment returning to a coverage area.

[0017] Figure 8 FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a method for handling notification procedures during a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer running.

[0018] Figure 9 FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of a method (procedure) for handling notification procedures during a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer running. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The detailed description set forth below, in connection with the appended drawings and embodiments described therewith, is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein can be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuring such concepts.

[0020] Several aspects of telecommunication systems will now be presented with reference to various apparatus and methods. These apparatus and methods will be described in the following detailed description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings by various blocks, components, circuits, processes, algorithms, etc. (collectively referred to as "elements"). These elements can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or any combination thereof. Whether such elements are implemented by hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the overall system.

[0021] For example, an element, or any portion of an element, or any combination of elements can be implemented as a "processing system" that includes one or more processors. Examples of processors include microprocessors, microcontrollers, graphics processing units (GPUs), central processing units (CPUs), application processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processors, systems on a chip (SoC), baseband processors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), state machines, gated logic, discrete hardware circuits, and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functionality described herein. One or more processors in the processing system can execute software. Software shall be construed broadly to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software components, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executables, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise.

[0022] Accordingly, in one or more example aspects, the functions described can be implemented in hardware, software, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functions can be stored on or encoded as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media includes computer storage media. Storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), compact disk ROM (CD-ROM), diskette, a hard disk drive, magnetic tape, a floppy disk, an

[0023] Figure 1A schematic diagram of a wireless communication system and an access network 100 is shown. The wireless communication system, also referred to as a wireless wide area network (WW AN), includes base stations 102, user equipment 104, an Evolved Packet Core (EPC) 160, and another core network 190 (e.g., a 5G Core (5GC)). Base stations 102 can include macro cells (high power cellular base stations) and / or small cells (low power cellular base stations). Macro cells include base stations. Small cells include femtocells, picocells, and microcells.

[0024] Base stations 102 configured as 4G LTE (collectively referred to as an Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN)) can interface with the EPC 160 through backhaul links 132 (e.g., an SI interface). Base stations 102 configured as 5G NR (collectively referred to as Next Generation RAN (NG-RAN)) can interface with the core network 190 through backhaul links 184. In addition to other functions, the base stations 102 can perform one or more of the following functions: transfer of user data, radio channel ciphering and deciphering, integrity protection, header compression, mobility control functions (e.g., handover, dual connectivity), inter-cell interference coordination, connection setup and release, load balancing, distribution for non-access stratum (NAS) messages, NAS node selection, synchronization, radio access network (RAN) sharing, multimedia broadcast multicast service (MBMS), subscriber and equipment trace, RAN information management (RIM), paging, positioning, and delivery of warning messages. The base stations 102 can communicate with one another directly or indirectly (e.g., through the EPC 160 or core network 190) over backhaul links 134 (e.g., an X2 interface). The backhaul links 134 can be wired or wireless.

[0025] Base station 102 can wirelessly communicate with user equipment 104. Each base station 102 can provide communication coverage for a corresponding geographic coverage area 110. Overlapping geographic coverage areas 110 may exist. For example, small cell 102' may have a coverage area 110' that overlaps with the coverage areas 110 of one or more macro base stations 102. A network containing small cells and macro cells may be referred to as a heterogeneous network. The heterogeneous network may also include Home Evolved Node B (HeNB) that can provide service to a restricted group called a closed subscriber group (CSG). The communication link 120 between base station 102 and user equipment 104 may include uplink (UL, also known as reverse link) transmission from user equipment 104 to base station 102 and / or downlink (DL, also known as forward link) transmission from base station 102 to user equipment 104. Communication link 120 may employ multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna technology, including spatial multiplexing, beamforming, and / or transmit diversity. The communication link may be implemented using one or more carriers. Base station 102 / user equipment 104 may use a spectrum with a bandwidth of up to 7 MHz (e.g., 5, 10, 15, 20, 100, 400 MHz, etc.) per carrier, allocating a total of Yx MHz (x component carriers) for transmission in carrier aggregation in each direction. Carriers may be adjacent or non-adjacent. Carrier allocation may be asymmetrical in the DL and UL directions (e.g., more or fewer carriers allocated to DL than to UL). Component carriers may include primary component carriers and one or more secondary component carriers. Primary component carriers may be referred to as primary cells (PCells), and secondary component carriers may be referred to as secondary cells (SCells).

[0026] Certain user devices 104 can communicate with each other over device-to- device (D2D) communication links 158. The D2D communication links 158 can use the DL / UL WWAN spectrum. The D2D communication links 158 can use one or more sidelink channels, such as a physical sidelink broadcast channel (PSBCH), a physical sidelink discovery channel (PSDCH), a physical sidelink shared channel (PSSCH), and a physical sidelink control channel (PSCCH). D2D communication can be implemented through various wireless D2D communication systems, such as for example, FlashLinQ, WiMedia, Bluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, LTE, or NR.

[0027] The wireless communications system can also include a Wi-Fi access point (AP) 150 in communication with Wi-Fi stations (STAs) 152 via communication links 154 in a 5 GHz unlicensed frequency spectrum. When communicating in an unlicensed frequency spectrum, the STAs 152 / AP 150 can perform a clear channel assessment (CCA) prior to communicating to determine whether the channel is available.

[0028] The small cells 102' can operate in a licensed and / or an unlicensed frequency spectrum. When operating in an unlicensed frequency spectrum, the small cells 102' can employ NR and use the same 5 GHz unlicensed frequency spectrum as used by the Wi-Fi access point 150. The small cells 102' employing NR in an unlicensed frequency spectrum can increase the throughput and / or reduce the latency of the access network.

[0029] The base stations 102, whether a cell 102' or a large area (e.g., macro base station), can include an evolved node B (eNB), gNodeB (gNB), or other type of base station. Some base stations, such as gNB 180, can operate in a traditional sub 6 GHz frequency band or in a millimeter wave (mmW) frequency band, or near mmW frequency band. When the gNB 180 operates in a mmW or near mmW frequency, the gNB 180 can be referred to as a millimeter wave base station. Extremely high frequency (EHF) is part of the radio frequency (RF) in the electromagnetic spectrum. EHF has a range from 30 GHz to 300 GHz and a wavelength between 1 millimeter and 10 millimeters. Radio waves in the EHF band can be referred to as a millimeter wave. Near mmW can extend down to 3 GHz with a wavelength of 100 millimeters. The super high frequency (SHF) band extends between 3 GHz and 30 GHz, also referred to as centimeter wave. Communications at mmW / near mmW frequencies (e.g., 3 GHz - 300 GHz) have extremely high path loss and a short range. The mmW base station 180 can utilize beamforming 182 with the UE 104 to compensate for the extremely high path loss and short range.

[0030] The base station 180 can transmit a beamformed signal to the UE 104 in one or more transmit directions 108a. The UE 104 can receive the beamformed signal from the base station 180 in one or more receive directions 108b. The UE 104 can also transmit a beamformed signal to the base station 180 in one or more transmit directions. The base station 180 can receive the beamformed signal from the UE 104 in one or more receive directions. The base station 180 / UE 104 can perform beam training to determine the best receive and transmit directions for each base station 180 / UE 104. The transmit and receive directions for the base station 180 can or can not be the same. The transmit and receive directions for the UE 104 can or can not be the same.

[0031] The Evolved Packet Core (EPC) 160 can include a Mobility Management Entity (MME) 162, other MMEs 164, a Serving Gateway 166, a Multimedia Broadcast Multicast Service (MBMS) Gateway 168, a Broadcast Multicast Service Center (BM-SC) 170, and a Packet Data Network (PDN) Gateway 172. The MME 162 can be in communication with a Home Subscriber Server (HSS) 174. The MME 162 is the control node that processes the signaling between the UEs 104 and the EPC 160. Generally, the MME 162 provides bearer and connection management. All user Internet Protocol (IP) packets are transferred through the Serving Gateway 166, which itself is connected to the PDN Gateway 172. The PDN Gateway 172 provides UE IP address allocation as well as other functions. The PDN Gateway 172 and the BM-SC 170 are connected to the IP Services 176. The IP Services 176 can include the Internet, an intranet, an IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), a Packet Switched Streaming Service (PS Streaming Service), and / or other IP services. The BM-SC 170 can provide functions for MBMS user service provisioning and delivery. The BM-SC 170 can serve as an entry point for content provider MBMS transmission, can be used to authorize and initiate MBMS Bearer Services, and can be used to schedule and deliver MBMS transmissions. The MBMS Gateway 168 can be used to distribute MBMS traffic to the base stations 102 belonging to a Multicast Broadcast Single Frequency Network (MBSFN) area and can be responsible for session management (start / stop) as well as for collecting MBMS related charging information.

[0032] The core network 190 can include an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) 192, other AMFs 193, a location management function (LMF) 198, a Session Management Function (SMF) 194, and a User Plane Function (UPF) 195. The AMF 192 can be in communication with a Unified Data Management (UDM) 196. The AMF 192 is the control node that processes the signaling between the UEs 104 and the core network 190. Generally, the SMF 194 provides QoS flow and session management. All user Internet protocol (IP) packets are transferred through the UPF 195. The UPF 195 provides UE Internet protocol (IP) address allocation as well as other functions. The UPF 195 is connected to the IP services 197. The IP services 197 can include the Internet, an intranet, an IP multimedia subsystem (IMS), a packet switched streaming service, and / or other IP services.

[0033] A base station can also be referred to as a gNB, Node B, evolved Node B (eNB), an access point, a base transceiver station, a radio base station, a radio transceiver, a transceiver function, a basic service set (BSS), an extended service set (ESS), a transmit reception point (TRP), or other suitable terminology. A base station 102 provides an access point to the EPC 160 or core network 190 for a UE 104. Examples of UEs 104 include a cellular phone, a smart phone, a session initiation protocol (SIP) phone, a laptop, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a satellite radio, a global positioning system, a multimedia device, a video device, a digital audio player (e.g., MP3 player), a camera, a game console, a tablet, a smart device, a wearable device, a vehicle, an electric meter, a fuel gauge, a large or small kitchen appliance, a medical device, an implant, a sensor / actuator, a display, or any other similar functional device. Some of the UEs 104 can be referred to as Internet of Things (IoT) devices (e.g., a parking meter, gas pump, toaster, vehicle, heart monitor, etc.). The UE 104 can also be referred to as a station, a mobile station, a subscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber unit, a wireless unit, a remote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wireless communications device, a remote device, a mobile subscriber station, an access terminal, a mobile terminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a user agent, a mobile client, a client, or other suitable terminology.

[0034] Although the present disclosure can relate to the 5th Generation New Radio (5G NR), the present disclosure also applies to other similar areas, such as long term evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), or other wireless / radio access technologies.

[0035] Figure 2is a block diagram of the base station 210 communicating with the UEs 250 in the access network. In the downlink, IP packets from the EPC 160 can be provided to a controller / processor 275. The controller / processor 275 implements layer 3 and layer 2 functionality. Layer 3 includes a radio resource control (RRC) layer, and layer 2 includes a packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer, a radio link control (RLC) layer, and a medium access control (MAC) layer. The controller / processor 275 provides RRC layer functionality associated with system information broadcast (e.g., master information block (MIB), system information block (SIBs)), RRC connection control (e.g., RRC connection paging, RRC connection establishment, RRC connection modification, and RRC connection release), inter radio access technology (RAT) mobility, and UE measurement reporting; PDCP layer functionality associated with header compression / decompression, security (ciphering, deciphering, integrity protection, integrity verification), and handover support functions; RLC layer functionality associated with the transfer of upper layer packet data units (PDUs), error correction through automatic repeat request (ARQ), concatenation, segmentation, and reassembly of RLC service data units (SDUs), re-segmentation of RLC data PDUs, and reordering of RLC data PDUs; and MAC layer functionality associated with mapping between logical channels and transport channels, multiplexing of MAC SDUs onto transport blocks (TBs), demultiplexing of MAC SDUs from TBs, scheduling information reporting, error correction through hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ), priority handling, and logical channel prioritization.

[0036] The transmit (TX) processor 216 and the receive (RX) processor 270 implement layer 1 functionality associated with various signal processing functions. The layer 1, which includes a physical layer (PHY), can include error detection on the transport channels, forward error correction (FEC) coding / decoding of the transport channels, interleaving, rate matching, mapping to physical channels, modulation / demodulation of physical channels, and MIMO antenna processing. The TX processor 216 handles mapping to signal constellations based on various modulation schemes (e.g., binary phase-shift keying (BPSK), quadrature phase-shift keying (QPSK), M-phase-shift keying (M-PSK), M-quadrature amplitude modulation (M-QAM)). The coded and modulated symbols can then be split into parallel streams. Each stream can then be mapped to a orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) subcarrier, multiplexed with a reference signal (e.g., pilot) in the time and / or frequency domain, and then combined together using an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) to produce a physical channel carrying a time domain OFDM symbol stream. The OFDM stream is spatially precoded to produce multiple spatial streams. Channel estimates from a channel estimator 274 can be used to determine the coding and modulation schemes, as well as the spatial processing by the network device 210. The channel estimate can be derived from a reference signal and / or channel state information (CSI) feedback transmitted by the user equipment (UE) 250. Each spatial stream can then be provided to a different antenna 220 via separate transmitters 218TX. Each transmitter 218TX can modulate an RF carrier with a respective spatial stream for transmission.

[0037] At the user equipment 250, each receiver 254RX receives a signal through its respective antenna 252. Each receiver 254RX recovers information modulated onto an RF carrier and provides the information to the receive (RX) processor 256. The TX processor 268 and the RX processor 256 implement layer 1 functionality associated with various signal processing functions. The RX processor 256 can perform spatial processing on the information to recover any spatial streams destined for the user equipment 250. If multiple spatial streams are destined for the user equipment 250, they can be combined by the RX processor 256 into a single OFDM symbol stream. The RX processor 256 then converts the OFDM symbol stream from the time-domain to the frequency domain using a Fast Fourier Transform (FFT). The frequency domain signal includes a separate OFDM symbol stream for each subcarrier of the OFDM signal. The symbols on each subcarrier, and the reference signal, are recovered and demodulated by determining the most likely signal constellation points transmitted by the base station 210. These soft decisions can be based on channel estimates computed by the channel estimator 258. The soft decisions are then decoded and de-interleaved to recover the data and control signals that were originally transmitted on the physical channel. The data and control signals are then provided to the controller / processor 259, which implements layer 3 and layer 2 functionality.

[0038] The controller / processor 259 can be associated with a memory 260 that stores program codes and data. The memory 260 can be referred to as a computer-readable medium. In the uplink (UL), the controller / processor 259 provides demultiplexing between transport and logical channels, packet reassembly, deciphering, header decompression, and control signal processing to recover IP packets from the Evolved Packet Core (EPC) 160. The controller / processor 259 is also responsible for error detection using an acknowledgement (ACK) and / or negative acknowledgement (NACK) protocol to support hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) operations.

[0039] Similar to the functionality described in the base station 210 downlink (DL) transmission, the controller / processor 259 provides RRC layer functionality associated with system information (e.g., Master Information Block (MIB), System Information Blocks (SIBs)) acquisition, RRC connections, and measurement reporting; PDCP layer functionality related to header compression / decompression, and security (ciphering, deciphering, integrity protection, integrity verification); RLC layer functionality associated with upper layer PDCP PDU transmission, error correction through ARQ, connection, segmenting, and reassembling of RLC SDUs, RLC data PDU resegmentation, and RLC data PDU reordering; and MAC layer functionality related to mapping between logical and transport channels, multiplexing / de-multiplexing of MAC SDUs to TBs, demultiplexing of MAC SDUs from TBs, scheduling information reporting, error correction through HARQ, priority handling, and logical channel prioritization.

[0040] Channel estimates derived by the channel estimator 258 from a reference signal or feedback transmitted by the base station 210 can be used by the TX processor 268 to select the appropriate coding and modulation schemes to be used. The spatial streams generated by the TX processor 268 can be provided to different antenna 252 via separate transmitters 254TX. Each transmitter 254TX can modulate an RF carrier with a respective spatial stream for transmission. Uplink transmissions can be processed at the base station 210 in a manner similar to that described in connection with the user equipment 250. Each receiver 218RX can receive a signal through its respective antenna 220. Each receiver 218RX recovers information modulated onto an RF carrier and provides the information to a RX processor 270.

[0041] The controller / processor 275 can be associated with a memory 276 that stores program codes and data. The memory 276 can be referred to as a computer-readable medium. In the uplink, the controller / processor 275 provides demultiplexing between transport and logical channels, packet reassembly, deciphering, header decompression, control signal processing to recover IP packets from the user equipment 250. IP packets from the controller / processor 275 can be provided to the EPC 160. The controller / processor 275 is also responsible for error detection using an ACK and / or NACK protocol to support HARQ operations.

[0042] New Radio (NR) can refer to wireless devices configured to operate according to a new air interface (e.g., non-Orthogonal Frequency Divisional Multiple Access (OFDMA) air interface) or fixed transport layer (e.g., non-Internet Protocol (IP)). NR can use OFDM with a cyclic prefix (CP) on the uplink and downlink and can include support for half-duplex operation using Time Division Duplexing (TDD). NR can include Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB) services targeting wide bandwidth (e.g., 80 MHz spannning sub-6 GHz, above 6 GHz, mmW), massive MTC (mMTC) targeting non-backwards compatible MTC techniques, and / or mission critical targeting ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) services.

[0043] A single component carrier bandwidth of 100 MHz can be supported. In one example, NR Resource Blocks (RBs) can span 12 subcarriers with a subcarrier bandwidth of 60 kHz for a 0.25 ms duration or a bandwidth of 30 kHz for a 0.5 ms duration (similarly, a 15 kHz subcarrier spacing (SCS) is 50 MHz bandwidth for a 1 ms duration). Each radio frame can consist of 10 subframes (10, 20, 40, or 80 NR slots) with a length of 10 ms. Each slot can indicate a link direction (i.e., downlink or uplink) for data transmission, and the link direction for each slot can be dynamically switched. Each slot can include downlink / uplink data as well as downlink / uplink control data. Uplink and downlink slots for NR can be referenced to Figure 5 and Figure 6 are described in greater detail.

[0044] An NR Radio Access Network (RAN) can include a Central Unit (CU) and Distributed Units (DUs). An NR base station (e.g., gNB, 5G Node B, Node B, Transmission Reception Point (TRP), Access Point (AP)) can correspond to one or more base stations. An NR cell can be configured as an Access Cell (ACell) or a Data Only Cell (DCell). For example, a wireless access network (e.g., a central unit or a distributed unit) can configure these cells. DCells can be used for carrier aggregation or dual connectivity and can not be used for initial access, cell selection / reselection, or handover. In some cases, DCells can not transmit Synchronization Signals (SS), in some cases DCells can transmit SS. An NR base station can transmit a downlink signal to a user equipment indicating a cell type. Based on the cell type indication, the user equipment can communicate with the NR base station. For example, the user equipment can determine, based on the indicated cell type, that the NR base station is to be considered for cell selection, access, handover, and / or measurement.

[0045] Figure 3 An example logical architecture of a distributed radio access network 300 is shown, in accordance with related aspects of the present disclosure. A 5G access node 306 can include an access node controller (ANC) 302. The ANC can be a central unit (CU) of the distributed radio access network. Backhaul interfaces to a next generation core network (NG-CN) 304 can terminate at the ANC. Backhaul interfaces to neighboring next generation access nodes (NG-ANs) 310 can terminate at the ANC. The ANC can include one or more transmit / receive points (TRPs) 308 (also referred to as base stations (BSs), new radio base stations (NR BSs), Node Bs, 5G Node Bs (5G NBs), access points (APs), or other terminology). As described above, a TRP can be used interchangeably with “cell.”

[0046] The TRPs 308 can be a distributed unit (DU). The TRPs can be connected to one ANC (ANC 302) or multiple ANCs (not illustrated). For example, for wireless access network sharing, radio as a service (RaaS), and specific services ANC deployment, the TRP can be connected to multiple ANCs. The TRPs can include one or more antenna ports. The TRPs can be configured to individually (e.g., dynamic selection) or jointly (e.g., joint transmission) serve user equipment (UEs) for traffic.

[0047] The local architecture of the distributed radio access network 300 can be used to illustrate the fronthaul definition. The architecture can define the fronthaul solution to support different deployment types. For example, the architecture can be based on transport network capabilities (e.g., bandwidth, latency, and / or jitter). The architecture can share features and / or components with long term evolution (LTE). According to related aspects, the next generation access node (NG-AN) 310 can support dual connectivity with new radio (NR). The NG-AN can share a common fronthaul for LTE and NR.

[0048] The architecture can enable cooperation between and within TRPs 308. For example, the cooperation can be preset within a TRP and / or across TRPs by the ANC 302. According to related aspects, no inter-TRP interface can be needed / present.

[0049] According to related aspects, there can be a dynamic configuration of split logical functions in the architecture of the distributed radio access network 300. The packet data convergence protocol (PDCP), radio link control (RLC), and medium access control (MAC) can be adaptably placed at the ANC or TRP.

[0050] Figure 4An example physical architecture of a distributed radio access network 400 is shown, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. A centralized core network unit (C-CU) 402 can host core network functions. The C-CU can be centrally deployed. The C-CU functionality can be offloaded (e.g., to advanced wireless services (AWS) to handle peak capacity. A centralized RAN unit (C-RU) 404 can host one or more ANC functions. Optionally, the C-RU can host core network functions locally. The C-RU can be distributed to be closer to the network edge. A distributed unit (DU) 406 can host one or more TRPs. The DU can be located at the network edge with radio frequency (RF) functionality.

[0051] Figure 5 FIG. 5 is a diagram 500 illustrating an example of a downlink (DL)-centric slot. The DL-centric slot can include a control portion 502. The control portion 502 can exist in the initial or beginning portion of the DL-centric slot. The control portion 502 can include various scheduling information and / or control information corresponding to various portions of the DL-centric slot. In some configurations, the control portion 502 can be a physical DL control channel (PDCCH), as shown in FIG. 6. Figure 5 The DL-centric slot can also include a DL data portion 504. The DL data portion 504 is sometimes referred to as the payload of the DL-centric slot. The DL data portion 504 can include communication resources utilized for communicating DL data from the scheduling entity (e.g., a user equipment or a base station) to the subordinate entity (e.g., a user equipment). In some configurations, the DL data portion 504 can be a physical DL shared channel (PDSCH).

[0052] The DL-centric time slot may also include a general uplink (UL) portion 506. The general UL portion 506 is sometimes also referred to as a UL burst, general UL burst, and / or other applicable terms. The general UL portion 506 may include feedback information corresponding to the portions of the DL-centric time slot. For example, the general UL portion 506 may include feedback information corresponding to the control portion 502. Non-limiting examples of feedback information include acknowledgment (ACK) signals, denial (NACK) signals, hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) indicators, and / or other applicable types of information. The general UL portion 506 may include other or alternative information, such as information related to random access channel (RACH) procedures, scheduling requests (SR), and other applicable types of information.

[0053] like Figure 5 As shown, the end of the DL data section 504 can be time-separated from the start of the general UL section 506. This time separation is sometimes referred to as a gap, protection period, protection interval, and / or other applicable terms. This separation provides time for the switching from DL communication (e.g., a receiving operation of a subordinate entity (e.g., a user equipment)) to UL communication (e.g., a transmitting operation of a subordinate entity (e.g., a user equipment)). Those skilled in the art will understand that the above is merely one example of a DL-centered timeslot, and alternative structures with similar characteristics may exist without departing from the relevant aspects described herein.

[0054] Figure 6 Figure 600 illustrates an example of an uplink (UL)-centric timeslot. The UL-centric timeslot may include a control section 602. The control section 602 may be present at the beginning or start portion of the UL-centric timeslot. Figure 6 The control section 602 in the above reference can be used as a reference. Figure 5 The control portion 502 is described similarly. The UL-centered time slot may also include a UL data portion 604. The UL data portion 604 is sometimes referred to as the payload of the UL-centered time slot. The UL portion may refer to the communication resources used to communicate UL data from a subordinate entity (e.g., a user equipment) to a scheduling entity (e.g., a user equipment or a base station). In some configurations, the control portion 602 may be the Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH).

[0055] like Figure 6As shown, the end of the control portion 602 can be separated in time from the beginning of the UL data portion 604. This time separation is sometimes referred to as a gap, guard period, guard interval, and / or other applicable terminology. This separation provides time for the switch-over from DL communication (e.g., reception operations of the scheduling entity) to UL communication (e.g., transmission operations of the scheduling entity). The UL-centric slot can also include a general UL portion 606. Figure 6 The general UL portion 606 in the UL-centric slot can be similar to the general UL portion 506 described above with reference to FIG. 5. The general UL portion 606 can also or instead include information related to channel quality indicators (CQIs), sounding reference signals (SRSs), and other applicable types of information. Those of skill in the art will understand that the above is merely one example of an UL-centric slot, and alternative structures having similar features can exist without necessarily deviating from the relevant aspects described herein. Figure 5 The general UL portion 606 in the UL-centric slot can be similar to the general UL portion 506 described above with reference to FIG. 5. The general UL portion 606 can also or instead include information related to channel quality indicators (CQIs), sounding reference signals (SRSs), and other applicable types of information. Those of skill in the art will understand that the above is merely one example of an UL-centric slot, and alternative structures having similar features can exist without necessarily deviating from the relevant aspects described herein.

[0056] In some cases, two or more subordinate entities (e.g., user devices) can communicate using sidelink signals. Real-world applications of such sidelink communications can include public safety, proximity services, user-to-network relaying, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, Internet of Everything (IoE) communications, Internet of Things (IoT) communications, mission-critical mesh networks, and / or other suitable applications. Generally, a sidelink signal can refer to a signal communicated from one subordinate entity (e.g., user device 1) to another subordinate entity (e.g., user device 2) without relaying that communication through a scheduling entity (e.g., user device or base station), although the scheduling entity can be utilized for scheduling and / or control purposes. In some examples, the sidelink signals can be communicated using a licensed spectrum (unlike wireless local area networks, which typically use an unlicensed spectrum).

[0057] Figure 7 FIG. 7 is a diagram 700 illustrating a wireless communication system. In this example, a satellite 706 has a coverage area 750 and is in communication with a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) 710. The PLMN 710 includes components such as an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) 714.

[0058] In the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards, 3GPP access and non-3GPP access refer to different types of network access technologies that can connect a User Equipment (UE) to a core network. 3GPP access refers to network access technologies that are defined and standardized by 3GPP, such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) (2G), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) (3G), Long-Term Evolution (LTE) (4G), New Radio (NR) (5G), and so on. Non-3GPP access refers to network access technologies that are not developed by 3GPP but can still connect to a 3GPP core network, such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), Ethernet, and so on.

[0059] In this example, a User Equipment (UE) 704 can connect to a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) 710 through a satellite 706 with 3GPP access. More specifically, the 3GPP access can be a Radio Access Technology (RAT) in a Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) for satellite communications. The satellite NG-RAN RAT type can be specific to the satellite access technology used to connect the UE 704 to the PLMN 710 through the satellite 706. This RAT type is different from a terrestrial cellular RAT type and is designed to handle unique characteristics of satellite communications, such as longer propagation delays, signal strength variations, and potential coverage interruptions.

[0060] In addition, an access point 760 communicates with the PLMN 710. The UE 704 can connect to the PLMN 710 through the access point 760 with non-3GPP access. More specifically, the non-3GPP access can be Wi-Fi.

[0061] The discontinuous coverage maximum time offset mechanism is designed for satellite-based next generation radio access network radio access technology type and is used to address the challenge of intermittent satellite coverage. The discontinuous coverage maximum time offset is used to manage network congestion when user equipment returns to coverage after experiencing discontinuous satellite coverage.

[0062] The user equipment 704 can receive the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset in various scenarios where the user equipment 704 communicates with the public land mobile network 710 through the satellite 706. For example, when the user equipment 704 performs an initial registration with the public land mobile network 710 through the satellite 706, the access and mobility management function (AMF) 714 can include the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset information element (IE) in the registration accept message. The user equipment 704 upon receiving the message, stores the time offset value for the specific satellite-based next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network 710.

[0063] Further, during a mobility registration update procedure, when the user equipment 704 moves within the coverage area 750 of the satellite 706, the access and mobility management function 714 can send a new discontinuous coverage maximum time offset information element in the registration accept message. The user equipment 704 then replaces the previously stored time offset value for the satellite-based next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network 710 with the latest received value.

[0064] In addition, the access and mobility management function 714 can send a configuration update command message to the user equipment 704 containing the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset information element. In this way, the network can update the time offset value without the need for a full registration procedure.

[0065] The user equipment 704 upon receiving the value, stores it for the specific satellite-based next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network 710. When the user equipment 704 returns to coverage from no coverage due to experiencing discontinuous satellite coverage, a random timer is set using the stored value. The timer duration is randomly selected, with a maximum not exceeding and including the stored maximum time offset value.

[0066] The purpose of this mechanism is to prevent network congestion caused by multiple user equipment attempting to reconnect at the same time after regaining satellite coverage. By distributing the reconnection attempts of user equipment at different times, it helps to maintain the stability and efficiency of the network.

[0067] Figure 8is a diagram 800 illustrating a sequence of operations of the user equipment 704 when returning to the coverage area 750 after experiencing discontinuous satellite coverage. More specifically, initially the user equipment 704 returns to the coverage area 750 after experiencing discontinuous satellite coverage, sets a random timer 812 using the stored discontinuous coverage maximum time offset value. The value is specific to the public land mobile network 710 and the satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type used. As mentioned above, the purpose of this mechanism is to prevent network congestion caused by multiple user equipment attempting to reconnect at the same time after regaining satellite coverage. By distributing the reconnection attempts of user equipment at different times, it helps to maintain the stability and efficiency of the network.

[0068] During the running of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer 812, the user equipment 704 is restricted from initiating any non-access stratum signaling on the satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network 710. However, there are exceptions to this rule. The user equipment 704 can stop the timer 812 and initiate non-access stratum signaling in the following cases: 1. the user equipment receives a paging mode message; 2. the user equipment has pending emergency services; or 3. the user equipment enters a tracking area identity outside the registration area. The non-access stratum signaling procedure can be a mobility registration update procedure.

[0069] In a fifth generation mobile communication (5G) network, a user equipment can operate in different modes. These modes belong to the 5G mobility management (5GMM) state. The connected mode (CONNECTED mode) indicates that the user equipment has an active connection with the network. This means that the user equipment has established a signaling connection with the access and mobility management function (AMF) and can send and receive data packets.

[0070] The idle mode (IDLE mode) is a state in which the user equipment is not actively engaged in data transmission or reception but remains registered with the network. In this mode, the user equipment saves power and resources by not maintaining a continuous connection with the network. The user equipment is not in an active communication session on a third generation partnership project access network (such as LTE, NR), but can still receive paging messages from the network to initiate communication when needed.

[0071] Mobile Initiated Connection Only mode (MICO mode) is a feature in 5G networks designed to optimize battery consumption and signaling efficiency for devices that do not require continuous connectivity. In MICO mode, the user equipment is configured to minimize interactions with the network, initiating connections only when necessary. This mode is particularly suitable for Internet of Things (IoT) devices or other applications that need to conserve power and do not require continuous connectivity with the network.

[0072] The notification procedure is a mechanism used by the network to request the user equipment 704 to perform certain operations in scenarios involving 3GPP access and non-3GPP access.

[0073] In the first scenario (case a), the network sends a NOTIFICATION message to the user equipment 704 over 3GPP access (via satellite 706). This occurs when the user equipment 704 is in 5GMM-CONNECTED mode over 3GPP access and in 5GMM-IDLE mode over non-3GPP access. The purpose is to re-establish user plane resources for a packet data unit session related to non-3GPP access over 3GPP access or to deliver a 5GSM downlink signaling message related to non-3GPP access over 3GPP access.

[0074] In the second scenario (case b), the network sends a NOTIFICATION message to the user equipment 704 over non-3GPP access (via access point 760). This occurs when the user equipment 704 is in 5GMM-CONNECTED mode over non-3GPP access and in 5GMM-IDLE mode (either normal idle mode or idle mode with suspend indication) over 3GPP access. The purpose is to re-establish user plane resources for a packet data unit session over 3GPP access or to deliver downlink signaling related to 3GPP access over 3GPP access.

[0075] Receiving a NOTIFICATION message over non-3GPP access (via access point 760) when the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer 812 of the user equipment 704 is running creates a problem. This scenario occurs when the user equipment 704 is in 5GMM-CONNECTED mode over non-3GPP access and in 5GMM-IDLE mode over 3GPP access (via satellite 706).

[0076] In this example, the network (public land mobile network 710) sends a notification message 820 requesting that the user equipment 704 reestablish user plane resources for a packet data unit session over the third generation partnership project access or deliver third generation partnership project access related downlink signaling over the third generation partnership project access. However, due to the running discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, the user equipment 704 is not allowed to initiate any non-access stratum signaling over the satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network 710.

[0077] This results in a conflict between the network request and the current state of the user equipment. The network expects the user equipment 704 to respond, but the user equipment 704 is unable to provide a response due to the timer restriction. Thus, the network (specifically the access and mobility management function 714) continues to wait for a response from the user equipment 704 until the timer 812 expires before the user equipment 704 can send a response.

[0078] This situation can result in a number of problems. The purpose of the notification message 820 is typically to reestablish service or deliver important signaling. The inability of the user equipment 704 to respond in a timely manner can delay these procedures. The access and mobility management function 714 can continue to allocate resources during the wait for the user equipment response, resulting in reduced network resource usage efficiency. If the network times out while waiting for a response, the user equipment 704 can be deemed unreachable, resulting in service interruption.

[0079] To address this problem, several solutions are proposed: 1. When a notification message 820 is received over a non-third generation partnership project access (via the access point 760) while the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer 812 is running, the user equipment 704 first stops the timer 812. This action removes the restriction that prevents the user equipment 704 from initiating non-access stratum signaling over the satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network 710. After stopping the timer 812, the user equipment 704 initiates non-access stratum signaling 830 to respond to the notification message 820. This non-access stratum signaling 830 can take the form of a service request procedure or a registration procedure, depending on the needs of the actual situation.

[0080] The service request procedure is applicable if the user equipment 704 needs to reestablish user plane resources for a packet data unit session related to the third generation partnership project access. Alternatively, the registration procedure is applicable if the user equipment 704 needs to update its registration with the network or needs a more comprehensive signaling exchange. This can be necessary when the user equipment 704 has been in an uncovered state for a long time or when its status or capabilities have changed significantly.

[0081] By implementing this procedure, the user equipment 704 is able to respond to the network request conveyed by the notification message 820 in a timely manner, even in cases that would normally be limited by the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer 812.

[0082] The user equipment 704 can send non-access stratum signaling 830 to the public land mobile network 710 over 3rd Generation Partnership Project access or non-3rd Generation Partnership Project access, depending on the current connection state and network configuration.

[0083] For 3rd Generation Partnership Project access, the non-access stratum signaling 830 is transmitted by the user equipment 704 to the public land mobile network 710 via the satellite 706. This communication path utilizes satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology. The non-access stratum messages are sent to the satellite 706, which then forwards these messages to the ground network infrastructure of the public land mobile network 710, ultimately for processing by the access and mobility management function 714.

[0084] For non-3rd Generation Partnership Project access, the non-access stratum signaling 830 is sent by the user equipment 704 to the public land mobile network 710 via the access point 760. This typically involves the use of Wi-Fi as the access technology. The non-access stratum messages are encapsulated in IPsec tunnels to provide security over the untrusted non-3rd Generation Partnership Project access network. These security tunnels terminate at a non-3rd Generation Partnership Project interworking function (N3IWF) within the public land mobile network 710, which then forwards the non-access stratum messages to the access and mobility management function 714 for processing.

[0085] 2. The user equipment 704 ignores the notification message 820. While this preserves the integrity of the discontinuous coverage mechanism, it can result in service delays or interruptions.

[0086] 3. The user equipment 704 sends a notification response message over non-3rd Generation Partnership Project access, indicating that it is unable to initiate a service request procedure or a registration procedure over 3rd Generation Partnership Project access. This informs the network of the current state and limitations of the user equipment.

[0087] 4. The user equipment 704 waits for the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer 812 to expire before responding to the notification message 820.

[0088] In another example, the user equipment 704 sets a timer with a random value that does not exceed and includes the stored maximum time offset value when returning to coverage. This randomization helps prevent network congestion by dispersing reconnection attempts when multiple user equipment regain satellite coverage at the same time.

[0089] During the running of this timer, the user equipment 704 is generally restricted from initiating non-access stratum signaling over satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type and public land mobile network 710. However, there are exceptions to this rule. The user equipment 704 will stop the timer and initiate non-access stratum signaling in the following cases: 1. the user equipment receives a paging message; 2. the user equipment has pending emergency services; 3. the user equipment enters a tracking area identity outside of the registered area; and / or 4. the user equipment receives a notification message while in 5GMM-IDLE mode (via satellite 706) and in 5GMM-CONNECTED mode over non-3GPP access (using Wi-Fi connection via access point 760) as described in scenario b above.

[0090] In yet another example, a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer is initiated when the user equipment 704 returns to coverage after experiencing discontinuous satellite coverage. This timer is set to a random value, with a maximum not exceeding and including the stored maximum time offset value for the public land mobile network 710 and the NR satellite access being used. The purpose of this timer is to prevent network congestion by dispersing the reconnection attempts of user equipment when multiple user equipment regain satellite coverage at the same time.

[0091] During the running of this timer, the user equipment 704 enters the 5GMM-REGISTERED.ATTEMPTING-REGISTRATION-UPDATE state and is generally restricted from initiating any non-access stratum signaling over NR satellite access and public land mobile network 710. However, there are several exceptions to this rule: 1. the user equipment 704 receives a paging message; 2. the user equipment 704 receives a notification message over non-3GPP access (via access point 760) as described in scenario b above; 3. the user equipment 704 has pending emergency services; 4. the user equipment 704 is establishing an emergency packet data unit session; 5. the user equipment 704 is performing an emergency services fallback procedure; and / or 6. the user equipment 704 enters a tracking area identity outside of the registered area. In any of the above cases, the user equipment 704 can stop the maximum time offset timer and initiate non-access stratum signaling.

[0092] Figure 9is a flowchart 900 illustrating a method (procedure) of handling notification procedures during a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer running. The method can be performed by a user equipment (e.g., user equipment 704). In operation 902, the user equipment receives a maximum time offset value from a network and stores the maximum time offset value. In certain configurations, the maximum time offset value is specific to a public land mobile network and a satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type. In certain configurations, the maximum time offset value is received from an access and mobility management function via a registration accept (REGISTRATION ACCEPT) message or a configuration update command (CONFIGURATION UPDATE COMMAND) message.

[0093] In operation 904, the user equipment starts a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer with a random value that is not more than and includes the maximum time offset value when returning to coverage from no coverage due to experiencing discontinuous coverage. In certain configurations, the user equipment enters a 5GMM-REGISTERED.ATTEMPTING-REGISTRATION-UPDATE state during the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer running.

[0094] In operation 906, the user equipment refrains from initiating non-access stratum signaling over the satellite next generation radio access network radio access technology type and the public land mobile network during the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer running unless at least one additional condition is met. The at least one additional condition includes at least one of receiving a notification message, receiving a paging message, having pending emergency services, performing an emergency services fallback procedure, entering a tracking area identity (TAI) outside of a registration area, or establishing an emergency packet data unit session.

[0095] In operation 908, the user equipment receives a notification message from a network during the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer running. In certain configurations, the notification message is received via a non-3rd generation partnership project access when the user equipment is in a 5GMM-CONNECTED mode via the non-3rd generation partnership project access and in a 5GMM-IDLE mode via a 3rd generation partnership project access. In certain configurations, the notification message requests the user equipment to reestablish user plane resources for a packet data unit session related to the 3rd generation partnership project access. In certain configurations, the notification message requests the user equipment to receive downlink signaling related to the 3rd generation partnership project access.

[0096] In operation 910, in response to receiving the notification message, the user equipment stops the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer. In operation 912, the user equipment initiates non-access stratum signaling in response to the notification message. In certain configurations, the non-access stratum signaling includes a traffic request procedure or a registration procedure. In certain configurations, the non-access stratum signaling is initiated over a third generation partnership project access of the satellite. In certain configurations, the non-access stratum signaling is initiated over a non-third generation partnership project access of the access point. In certain configurations, the non-third generation partnership project access includes a Wi-Fi connection.

[0097] It is to be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes / flow diagrams disclosed is an example of exemplary processes. Based upon design choices, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes / flow diagrams can be re-arranged. Furthermore, some steps can be combined or omitted. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in the order in which they are presented in the processes / flow diagrams, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0098] The foregoing description is intended to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the aspects described herein. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more." The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "some" refers to one or more. Combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, and C," and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" include any combination of A, B, and / or C, and can include multiples of A, multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically, combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, and C," and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" can be A only, B only, C only, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A, B, and C, where any such combination can contain one or more members of A, B, or C. Structural and functional equivalents of any of the aspects described throughout this disclosure are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, any combination of the disclosure is intended to fall within the scope of the claims. In addition, no aspect is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether these aspects are explicitly recited in the claims. The words "module," "mechanism," "element," "device," and the like can not be a substitute for the word "means." As such, no claim element is to be construed as a means plus function unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for."

Claims

1. A wireless communication method for a user equipment, comprising: When returning from no coverage to coverage due to discontinuous coverage, a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer with a random value is started, which does not exceed a maximum time offset value. During the operation of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, a notification message is received from a network; In response to receiving the notification message, the maximum time offset timer for discontinuous coverage is stopped, and non-access stratum signaling is initiated in response to the notification message.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein when a user equipment is in 5GMM-connected mode under non-3rd Generation Partner Program access and in 5GMM-idle mode under 3rd Generation Partner Program access, the notification message is received through non-3rd Generation Partner Program access.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-access stratum signaling includes a service request process or a registration process.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the maximum time offset value is determined for a public terrestrial mobile network and a satellite next-generation radio access network radio access technology type.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: Receive the maximum time offset value from the network and store the maximum time offset value.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the maximum time offset value is received from the access and mobility management function via a registration acceptance message or a configuration update command message.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-access stratum signaling is initiated via a satellite's third-generation partner program access.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein the non-access stratum signaling is initiated via a non-third generation partner program access of an access point.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the non-third-generation partner program access includes a Wi-Fi connection.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the notification message requests the user equipment to re-establish the user plane resources of the packet data unit session associated with the 3rd Generation Partner Program access.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the notification message requests the user equipment to receive downlink signaling related to access under the Third Generation Partner Program.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: During the operation of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, non-access stratum signaling shall be avoided on a satellite next-generation radio access network radio access technology type and a public terrestrial mobile network unless at least one additional condition is met.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the at least one additional condition includes at least one of the following: Receive this notification message; Receive a paging message; There is an emergency service pending. Execute an emergency service rollback process; Entering a tracking zone outside a registered area; Establish an emergency group data unit session.

14. The method of claim 1, further comprising: During the operation of the maximum time offset timer for discontinuous coverage, it enters a 5GMM-REGISTERED.ATTEMPTING-REGISTRATION-UPDATE state.

15. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus being a user equipment, comprising: A memory; At least one processor is coupled to the memory and configured as follows: When returning from no coverage to coverage due to discontinuous coverage, a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer with a random value is started, which does not exceed a maximum time offset value. During the operation of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, a notification message is received from a network; In response to receiving the notification message, the maximum time offset timer for discontinuous coverage is stopped, and non-access stratum signaling is initiated in response to the notification message.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein when a user equipment is in 5GMM-connected mode under a non-3rd Generation Partner Program access and in 5GMM-idle mode under a 3rd Generation Partner Program access, the notification message is received through the non-3rd Generation Partner Program access.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the non-access stratum signaling includes a service request process or a registration process.

18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the maximum time offset value is determined for a public terrestrial mobile network and a satellite next-generation radio access network radio access technology type.

19. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to: Receive the maximum time offset value from the network and store the maximum time offset value.

20. A computer-readable medium for wireless communication of a user equipment, storing computer-executable code, the code comprising: When returning from no coverage to coverage due to discontinuous coverage, a discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer with a random value is started, which does not exceed a maximum time offset value. During the operation of the discontinuous coverage maximum time offset timer, a notification message is received from a network; In response to receiving the notification message, the maximum time offset timer for discontinuous coverage is stopped, and non-access stratum signaling is initiated in response to the notification message.

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