Energy-based network access control

Abstract

Certain examples of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus (10, 110) comprising: means (11) for receiving, from a network node (120), information (202) indicative of one or more criteria for enabling the apparatus to determine whether the apparatus is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, where the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter (203); means (11) for determining whether one or more criteria are met; and means (11) for requesting access to the network node based at least in part on the determination.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Examples disclosed herein relate to network access control. Various examples provide apparatus, methods, systems, and computer programs for controlling access to a network. Some examples, while not affecting the foregoing, relate to unified access control mechanisms for AIoT devices in the Internet of Things (IoT) environment. Background Technology

[0002] In traditional systems used to control network access, access to a network node can be restricted by preventing devices from attempting to request access. However, this traditional access control system is not always optimal.

[0003] In some cases, it may be necessary to improve network access control. In other cases, it may be necessary to strengthen control over which devices have restricted access to network nodes.

[0004] Any previously published documents or any list or discussion of background information in this specification are not necessarily an admission that such documents or background information are part of the prior art or common general knowledge. One or more aspects / examples of this disclosure may or may not solve one or more background problems. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The claims define the scope of protection for various embodiments of the invention.

[0006] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples provided in this disclosure are examples as claimed in the appended claims. Any examples and features described in this specification that are not within the scope of the independent claims shall be construed as examples that help to understand the various embodiments of the invention.

[0007] According to at least some examples of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: A component for receiving information from a network node indicating one or more standards, the one or more standards being used to enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Components used to determine whether one or more criteria are met; and A component used to request access to a network node based at least in part on this determination.

[0008] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a method is provided that includes: The device receives information from a network node indicating one or more criteria, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter. The device determines whether one or more criteria are met; and The device requests access to the network node based at least in part on this determination.

[0009] According to various, but not all, examples of this disclosure, a chipset is provided that includes a processing circuitry system configured to perform the methods described above.

[0010] According to various, but not all, examples of this disclosure, a module, circuit system, device, and / or system is provided that includes components for performing the methods described above.

[0011] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform: Receive information from a network node indicating one or more standards, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Determine whether one or more criteria are met; and The request to access the network node is based at least in part on this determination.

[0012] According to various, but not all, examples of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: At least one processor; and At least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to at least: Receive information from a network node indicating one or more standards, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Determine whether one or more criteria are met; and The request to access the network node is based at least in part on this determination.

[0013] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least the following to be performed: The device receives information from a network node indicating one or more criteria, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter. The device determines whether one or more criteria are met; and The device requests access to the network node based at least in part on this determination.

[0014] According to at least some examples of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising: A component for sending information to a device indicative of one or more standards, the one or more standards being used to enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to a network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Components for receiving a request from the device to access a network node, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from receiving; and A component used to authorize the device to access a network node, at least in part, based on the request.

[0015] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a method is provided that includes: Components for sending information from a network node to a device indicative of one or more standards, the one or more standards being used to enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Components for receiving, at a network node, a request for access to the network node from the device, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from receiving; and A component used by a network node to authorize the device to access the network node, at least in part, based on the request.

[0016] According to various, but not all, examples of this disclosure, a chipset is provided that includes a processing circuitry system configured to perform the methods described above.

[0017] According to various, but not all, examples of this disclosure, a module, circuit system, device, and / or system is provided that includes components for performing the methods described above.

[0018] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a network node, cause the network node to perform: Send information to the device indicating one or more criteria, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to a network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter; The device receives a request to access a network node, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from receiving information; and The device is authorized to access the network node, at least in part, based on this request.

[0019] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a network node is provided that includes: At least one processor; and At least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the network node to at least: Send information to the device indicating one or more criteria, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to a network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter; The device receives a request to access a network node, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from receiving information; and The device is authorized to access the network node, at least in part, based on this request.

[0020] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause at least the following to be performed: The network node sends information to the device indicative of one or more criteria, which are used to enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter. At the network node, a request to access the network node is received from the device, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from accessing; and The network node authorizes the device to access the network node based at least in part on the request.

[0021] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a method of using the apparatus and / or system described herein is provided.

[0022] The following sections of this 'Summary' section describe various features that may be features of any of the examples described in the preceding sections of this 'Summary' section. The description of the function should also be considered as disclosing any components suitable for performing the function, or any instructions stored in at least one memory that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the device to perform the function.

[0023] In some, but not all, examples, at least one energy parameter characterizes at least one of the following: The amount of energy and / or power; The amount of energy and / or power available to the device; The amount of energy stored at the device; and The energy receiving rate at this device.

[0024] In some, but not all, examples, this information includes at least one threshold value for at least one energy parameter.

[0025] In some, but not all, examples, at least one threshold value for at least one energy parameter includes: Multiple threshold values ​​for at least one energy parameter for corresponding multiple types of devices.

[0026] In some, but not all, examples, the device also includes a component for evaluating at least one value of at least one energy parameter for the device.

[0027] In some, but not all, examples, determining whether one or more criteria are met involves comparing at least one evaluation value with at least one threshold value.

[0028] In some, but not all, examples, this information is based on whether the device meets at least one of the following criteria: Energy harvesting equipment, and Environmental IoT (AIoT) devices.

[0029] In some, but not all, examples, this information is indicated based on whether the device meets at least one of the following criteria: Specific types of energy harvesting devices, and Specific types of environmental IoT (AIoT) devices.

[0030] In some, but not all, examples, determining whether one or more criteria are met includes evaluating the type of equipment used in the device.

[0031] In some, but not all, examples: This information is received in the main information block (MIB); and The device also includes components for receiving System Information Blocks (SIBs) from network nodes, the SIBs including updated and / or replacement information.

[0032] In some, but not all, examples, the updated and / or replaced information includes: One or more updated standards and / or replacement standards; and At least one updated threshold value and / or replacement threshold value for at least one energy parameter.

[0033] In some, but not all, examples, the apparatus also includes components for determining a time period for delaying the transmission of a request to access a network node, wherein the determination of the time period is based at least in part on the determination of whether one or more criteria are met.

[0034] In some, but not all, examples, the time period includes at least one of the following: Modify the default time period. Add a default time period. Maximize the T390 time period, and Set this time period to: (0.7 + 0.6) Prohibited time periods.

[0035] In some, but not all, examples, the device also includes a component for delaying the sending of a request to the network node during a period of time in response to determining that the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node.

[0036] In some, but not all, examples, the request to access the network node includes at least one of the following: Send a connection request to the network node; and Send a request to transition between the first state and the second state of the network node.

[0037] In some, but not all, examples, this information includes at least one or more of the following: Received from network nodes via broadcast; It is received in the Unified Access Control (UAC) information; Received in the main information block (MIB); and It is received in the System Information Block (SIB).

[0038] In some, but not all, examples, the device includes at least one of the following: User Equipment (UE) Energy harvesting (EH) equipment. Reduced capability of RedCap devices; Internet of Things (IoT) devices; and Environmental IoT (AIoT) devices.

[0039] Although the examples and optional features described above in this disclosure are described separately, it should be understood that they are included in this disclosure in all possible combinations and permutations. It should be understood that various examples of this disclosure may include any or all features described with respect to other examples of this disclosure, and vice versa. Furthermore, it should be understood that, as needed and where appropriate, any one or more features (in any combination) may be implemented by / included in / performed by a means, method, and / or computer program instructions. Attached Figure Description

[0040] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0041] Figure 1 An example of a radio telecommunications network suitable for use with the examples of the topics described herein is illustrated schematically;

[0042] Figure 2 Examples of methods for the topics described in this article are illustrated schematically;

[0043] Figure 3 An example of another approach to the topic described in this article is illustrated schematically;

[0044] Figure 4 The illustration shows the use Figure 2 and Figure 3 Examples of business changes to the methods;

[0045] Figure 5 Examples of devices according to the subject matter described herein are schematically illustrated; and

[0046] Figure 6 An example of a computer program based on the subject matter described herein is illustrated schematically.

[0047] These accompanying figures are not necessarily to scale. For clarity and brevity, some features and views in the figures may be shown schematically or at scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements for ease of interpretation. Similar reference numerals are used in the figures to indicate similar features. For clarity, not all reference numerals need to be shown in all figures. Abbreviations / Definitions 3GPP: Third Generation Partnership Project 5G: Fifth Generation 6G: Sixth Generation AC: Access Category AI: Access Identifier AIoT: Internet of Things for the Environment EH: Energy Harvesting IoT: Internet of Things MIB: Master Information Block RAN: Radio Access Network RF: Radio Frequency SIB: System Information Block UAC: Unified Access Control UE: User Equipment Detailed Implementation

[0048] Figure 1An example of a network 100 suitable for use with the examples of this disclosure is schematically illustrated. The network (also referred to as an NW) includes multiple network nodes, including: a terminal node 110 (also referred to as a user equipment UE), an access node 120 (also referred to as a radio access network RAN ​​node or base station), and one or more core network nodes 130. Terminal node 110 and access node 120 communicate with each other. In some, but not all, examples, one or more core network nodes 130 may communicate with each other. In some, but not all, examples, one or more access nodes 120 may communicate with each other.

[0049] In this example, network 100 is a wireless telecommunications network, i.e., RAN, in which at least some of the terminal nodes 110 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other using radio wave transmission / reception.

[0050] Network / RAN 100 may be a cellular network comprising multiple cells 122, each cell being served by access node 120. Access node 120 includes a cellular radio transceiver. Terminal node 110 includes a cellular radio transceiver.

[0051] In the specific examples illustrated and discussed below, Network 100 is the 3GPP New Radio NR network and its fifth-generation 5G technology. In other examples, Network 100 can be a network other than 5G, such as the next-generation (i.e., sixth-generation 6G) wireless network currently under development (i.e., the NR network and its evolution into 5G technology).

[0052] The interface between terminal node 110 and access node 120 is radio interface 124 (e.g., Uu interface). The interface between access node 120 and one or more core nodes 130 is backhaul interface 128 (e.g., S1 and / or next-generation NG interface).

[0053] Depending on the specific deployment scenario, access node 120 can be a RAN node such as an NG-RAN node. NG-RAN nodes can be gNodeBs or gNBs that provide NG user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE. The gNB connects to the 5G core (5GC) via an NG interface, and more specifically, to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) via the NG control plane NG-C interface, and to the User Plane Function (UPF) via the NG user plane NG-U interface. Access nodes 120 can interconnect with each other via Xn interface 126.

[0054] Cellular network 100 can be configured to operate in licensed or unlicensed frequency bands (especially: unlicensed frequency bands that rely on transmitting equipment to sense radio resources / mediums before transmission begins, such as via the Listen-After-Speak (LBT) process; and the 60 GHz unlicensed frequency band that may require beamforming to achieve the desired coverage).

[0055] Access node 120 can be deployed in NG standalone operation / scenarios. Access node 120 can be deployed in NG non-standalone operation / scenarios. Access node 120 can be deployed in carrier aggregation (CA) operation / scenarios. Access node 120 can be deployed in dual-connectivity DC operation / scenarios, i.e., multi-radio access technology - dual-connectivity MR-DC or NR-DC. Access node 120 can be deployed in multi-connectivity MC operation / scenarios.

[0056] In this non-standalone / dual-connectivity deployment, access nodes 120 can interconnect with each other via X2 or Xn interfaces, and connect to the Evolved Packet Core (EPC) via the S1 interface or to the 5GC via the NG interface.

[0057] Access node 120 is a network element in the network responsible for radio transmission and reception to or from terminal node 110 in one or more cells 122. Access node 120 is the network terminal of the radio link. A gNB can host one or more Transmitter / Receiver Points (TRPs).

[0058] Access node 120 can be implemented as a single network device, or as a split architecture with different functional split architectures and different interfaces, which are decomposed / distributed across two or more RAN nodes (such as central unit CU, distributed unit DU, remote radio head end RRH).

[0059] Terminal node 110 is a user-side network element in the network that terminates the radio link. They are devices that allow access to network services. Terminal node 110 can be referred to as User Equipment (UE), Mobile Terminal, or Mobile Station. The term 'User Equipment' can be used to specify a mobile device that includes components for authentication / encryption, such as a smart card (e.g., a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM)). The SIM / SIM card can be a memory chip, module, or Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM). The functionality of terminal node 110 can also be performed by the Mobile Terminal (MT) portion of an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node.

[0060] In the following description, the terminal node may be referred to as UE 110. In the following description, the access node, radio access network (RAN) node, gNB, or TRP may be referred to as network node 120.

[0061] In some examples, the term 'user equipment' can be used to specify a location / location tag, a super-smart / intelligent sensor, or a mobile device that includes a circuitry system for authentication / encryption, such as a software SIM, embedded as part of the user equipment.

[0062] The following section will briefly discuss energy harvesting devices, such as AIoT devices for the environment.

[0063] An AIoT device is a classification / category of device or UE that has lower complexity, data rate, coverage, cost, and power consumption than narrowband IoT devices (NB-IoT) / enhanced machine-type communication (eMTC) devices. An AIoT device is an IoT device powered by energy harvesting (EH), and it is either battery-free or has limited energy storage capacity (e.g., using capacitors). The energy for an AIoT device can be provided by harvesting radio waves, light, motion, heat, or any other suitable power source. In some examples, energy can be transferred to the AIoT device via wireless power transfer from a RAN node, such as broadcasting an energy signal to the AIoT device via a gNB.

[0064] Use cases for AIoT devices include: identification, tracking, monitoring, sensing, logistics and supply chain management, transportation, manufacturing (factory automation), healthcare, energy, agriculture, smart cities, environment, extreme conditions, and hazardous environments in some use cases (devices with batteries are not an option for this environment).

[0065] Different types / categories of AIoT devices can exist, such as: Type A AIoT devices, Type B AIoT devices, and Type C AIoT devices, where: Type A AIoT devices are characterized by the lack of energy storage and independent signal generation capabilities (in this respect, transmission is achieved via backscatter transmission). Type B AIoT devices are characterized by having energy storage but no independent signal generation capability (in this respect, transmission is achieved via backscatter transmission; however, the stored energy can be used to amplify the reflected signal). Type C AIoT devices are characterized by energy storage and independent signal generation (i.e., active RF components for transmission). Furthermore, Type C2 (sub) category devices are characterized by being active devices with full capabilities to perform uplink and downlink network registration, as well as mobile-initiated (MO) and mobile-terminated (MT) operations.

[0066] In some examples, AIoT devices may have the ability to traverse mobile initiation (MO) and mobile termination (MT) data (e.g., Type C AIoT devices). In this respect, AIoT devices can correspond to / act as UEs that can connect to the RAN.

[0067] In the following description, the term 'user equipment' may be used to refer to one or more of the following: capacity reduction RedCap equipment; Internet of Things (AIoT) equipment; Environmental Internet of Things (AIoT) equipment; and Energy Harvesting (EH) equipment.

[0068] The Unified Access Control (UAC) will be briefly discussed below.

[0069] Unified Access Control (UAC) is a collection of mechanisms / algorithms used to control network access, such as controlling a UE's access to network nodes (e.g., RAN access nodes).

[0070] The current 3GPP UAC is a collection of mechanisms / algorithms used to determine whether a UE is allowed to perform a specific service or state change. The UAC mechanisms / algorithms involve many factors at each point in the decision-making process. Furthermore, semi-static System Information Block 1 (SIB1) messages are used to check for cell prohibition information.

[0071] UAC parameters can be broadcast to all UEs on the cell. UEs need to have the latest UAC information before they can begin an access attempt, i.e., send a request to access the NW. The NW can use UAC to restrict UE access without having to reject it (i.e., avoid UEs sending access requests, and thus avoid the NW needing to receive, process, and reject access requests—thus saving resources in this regard).

[0072] Specifically, for unified access control, SIB1 can provide the prohibition information "uac-BarringInfo" and parameters. Parameters related to cell prohibition and cell reservation can be indicated in the basic system information carried in MIB messages and SIB1 messages.

[0073] Cell blocking and reservation instructions can be applied only to UEs searching for a cell to camp on. A cell blocking indicator in the MIB message can prevent any UE (e.g., RedCap, NR) from selecting that cell. Cells can also be reserved for specific UEs using different indicators in the SIB1 message. The “cellReservedForOperatorUse” indicator only allows operators' users to access a given cell. For example, it can be configured when an operator needs to perform cell maintenance for a specific time period. 3GPP also includes a parameter “cellReservedForFutureUse” in the SIB1 message as an opportunity to restrict cell accessibility based on future 5G needs.

[0074] UAC checks can be performed on access attempts, especially when the UE is in idle mode, when there is a pause indication on 3GPP access, and when an event occurs that requires a switch to connected mode.

[0075] According to Section 4.5 of TS 24.501 (V.18.3.1), when a UE needs to access a 5G system 5GS, the UE first performs an access control check to determine whether access is permitted. The UE's configuration can be checked (especially whether the UE is configured for Multimedia Priority Service (MPS), Mission Critical Service (MCS), or whether a disaster scenario exists). In this regard, NR supports 16 standardized access identifiers (AIs). Service type can be checked (especially: Mobile Initiated (MO) signaling / voice call / video call / data or SMS). NR supports 64 access categories (ACs) in this regard (32 are standardized, and 32 are operator-defined).

[0076] During UAC checks: The UE maps its access attempts to the AC and one or more AIs based on defined mapping rules (i.e., the rules specified in the standard).

[0077] The UE then checks whether its request is prohibited for a given cell by evaluating the prohibition information (e.g., “uac-BarringInfo”) received in the (semi-static) SIB1 message.

[0078] For each AC, the prohibition information includes: the prohibition indicator, prohibition factor, and prohibition time for each AI.

[0079] Each AI's prohibition indicator indicates whether an access attempt is allowed for a specific AI targeting a specific AC.

[0080] A prohibition factor (e.g., "uac-BarringFactor") indicates the probability of allowing a given access request.

[0081] The barring time (e.g., "uac-BarringTime") is used to define the minimum time interval between when a UE is barred and before it can make a new access attempt.

[0082] The uac-BarringInfo within SIB 1 provides parameters for determining when a UE needs to perform an access prohibition check.

[0083] Access denial checks involve the UE generating a uniformly distributed random number between 0 and 1. If the random number is less than the value of uac-BarringFactor, the access attempt is allowed. Otherwise, the access attempt is denied. Configuring a value of '0' for uac-BarringFactor indicates that all checks will result in a denied access attempt.

[0084] If access attempts are denied, the UE generates a second uniformly distributed random number between 0 and 1. Then, the value of T390 (in seconds) is set to equal: T390 = (0.7 + 0.6) rand) uac-BarringTime "rand" is a second uniformly distributed random number.

[0085] Timer T390 defines the duration for which the UE considers the cell to be prohibited for the corresponding access category.

[0086] The inventors of this disclosure have recognized that some devices (especially Type C AIoT devices) are energy harvesting devices with active transmission and storage, and their transmission can be similar to that of an NR UE. A key difference is the lack of a stable power supply. This lack of stable power availability can mean that EH / AIoT devices may not have enough energy to complete the access request process and transmit and receive data. For example, an EH / AIoT device may run out of energy during an access request process, thus aborting the access request process and wasting resources (both EH / AIoT resources and NR resources) in initiating and processing such aborted access requests.

[0087] Current UAC mechanisms do not take into account AIoT or EH devices. The inventors have realized that network access control for such devices can be useful, and that access protocols can be used for such devices, although with some variations.

[0088] Various examples in this disclosure propose a UAC mechanism for AIoT devices. As will be discussed in further detail below, in some examples a novel information element is proposed that indicates energy parameters that are prohibited from being configured for IoT access in the environment. The energy parameters can be a "common energy threshold" or "common energy factor" condition that the UE needs to evaluate before sending a connection request. The energy parameters can characterize the energy state / mode of the AIoT device (i.e., whether it has high or low energy storage or energy receiving / collecting rate).

[0089] The energy parameter can be a "common energy threshold" or "common energy factor" condition that the UE needs to evaluate before sending a connection request.

[0090] As will be discussed in further detail below, some examples provide options for restricting access for all AIoT UEs. This can be achieved by introducing new information elements in the main information block (MIB). In some examples, SIB1 is used to implement access restrictions based on individual AIoT device types. In some examples, a new evaluation of timer T390 for ambient IoT UEs is provided. Some examples provide an option for using SIB1 to dynamically adjust energy parameters so that the network can adjust the "energy factor" and restrict access for low-energy or low-priority AIoT UEs based on current or anticipated network load, without needing to accept or reject access requests.

[0091] Current UAC mechanisms may restrict access for NR, Redcap UEs, and the like. However, AIoT UEs have additional features (e.g., energy harvesting features), and the inventors have realized that it can be advantageous to provide access control procedures (e.g., modifying the UAC procedure) for such devices, for example, to best suit such devices and to provide them with a greater degree of control over their access to the network.

[0092] In the context of densely deployed AIoT devices (i.e., a large number of AIoT devices per network node), it is useful to control or restrict AIoT UE access, for example, based on network load or additional characteristics of the AIoT devices, such as their current state of energy / condition. Various examples in this disclosure seek to provide enhancements to existing UACs to support AIoT devices. In this regard, as will be discussed below, various examples provide new information elements for indicating access restrictions for AIoT devices.

[0093] Figure 2 An example of a method 200 for controlling UE 110's access to network node 120 is illustrated schematically.

[0094] As used herein, the term 'UE' can be used interchangeably to refer to AIoT devices or EH devices (especially AIoT / EH UE devices, such as AIoT / EH devices that are capable of connecting to a network).

[0095] As used herein, the term 'network node' can be used interchangeably as an access node of the RAN or gNB.

[0096] Figure 2 Method 200 (and other method features and functions discussed below) can each be considered to illustrate multiple methods, because Figure 2 This can be interpreted as illustrating one or more actions performed by multiple participants / entities (i.e., UE 110 and network node 120) at the participant / entity. Therefore, Figure 2It can be considered as illustrating multiple individual methods performed by each corresponding individual participant / entity among multiple participants / entities.

[0097] Figure 2 The component box is functional, and the described functionality can be performed by a single physical entity, such as a reference. Figure 5 The described apparatus (e.g., embodied as a UE or network node). The described functionality can also be achieved through a computer program (as referenced). Figure 6 This is achieved through (as described above). Therefore, Figure 2 The boxes shown can represent actions in a method, functions performed by a device, and / or instruction / code portions in a computer program.

[0098] In box 201, UE 110 receives from network node 120 information 202 indicating criteria / conditions that enable the UE to determine whether it is prohibited from requesting access to the network node. This criterion is based on energy parameters 203.

[0099] This information can be broadcast by network nodes. It can also be received in the Master Information Block (MIB). Alternatively, it can be received in the System Information Block (SIB). In some examples, this information is Unified Access Control (UAC) information, such as "uac-BarringInfo".

[0100] In some examples, the first information (i.e., information common to all UEs served by the network node) is received in the MIB, and the second information (e.g., an updated / replacement version of the first information and its standard and energy parameters used to determine whether a UE is denied access) is received in the SIB. This allows the NW to dynamically adjust the information (i.e., standard and energy parameters) used to determine whether a UE is denied access.

[0101] Energy parameter 203 can be associated with the UE's energy status or condition. The energy parameter can characterize / define at least one of the following: The amount of energy and / or power (e.g., X joules or Y watts). The amount of energy and / or power available to the UE (e.g., which may be obtained from energy storage and / or energy harvesting); The amount of energy stored at the UE (e.g., battery level, percentage of remaining power), and Energy reception rate at the UE (e.g., energy collection rate / collection power).

[0102] In box 204, the UE determines whether the criteria are met. In this respect, the UE determines whether its access to the network is prohibited or restricted based on whether the criteria are met.

[0103] In this regard, the received information 202 may include threshold values ​​for energy parameters (e.g., energy threshold values ​​or energy factors, especially such as "uac-AIoTEnergyFactor", which will be discussed in further detail below). In some examples, the received information 202 may include device type-specific threshold values ​​for energy parameters (e.g., energy threshold values / factors for Type A AIoT devices, Type B AIoT devices, and Type C AIoT devices; especially such as "cellBarredAIoT-DeviceA", "cellBarredAIoT-DeviceB", and "cellBarredAIoT-DeviceC", which will be discussed in further detail below).

[0104] To enable the UE to determine whether a criterion is met, the UE can evaluate the value of an energy parameter and compare the evaluated energy parameter value with a threshold energy parameter value received in information 202. Criterion satisfaction can be based on the comparison between the UE's evaluated energy parameter value and the received threshold energy parameter value (e.g., whether the evaluated energy parameter value is greater than the threshold energy parameter value).

[0105] In box 205, the UE requests access to the network node based at least in part on the determination in box 204. For example, if in box 204 the UE determines that the criteria are not met and therefore the UE is prohibited, then the UE does not request access to the network node. However, if in box 204 the UE determines that the criteria are met and therefore the UE is not prohibited, then the UE requests access to the network node.

[0106] The access request in block 205 may include sending a connection request to the network node. This request may be a request for the UE to transition between a first state and a second state with the network node. In some examples, the first state may be a disconnected state, and the second state may be a connected state. In some examples, the UE may request to change from RRC IDLE mode to RRC CONNECTED mode.

[0107] For example, the UE can receive energy threshold energy parameter values ​​or energy factor energy parameter values ​​from the NW in information 202. The energy threshold / energy factor parameter values ​​can be, for example: ·E T Joules – Indicates a threshold (e.g., minimum) amount of energy stored at the UE that allows the UE to request access; ·P T Watts – Indicates a threshold (e.g., minimum) energy harvesting rate (power reception) for which a UE is allowed to request access. ·EF T—A threshold value (e.g., a minimum value) indicating the energy ratio of UEs that allow a UE to request access, for example: ,or

[0108] Then, the UE can evaluate its own energy threshold parameter value; for example, the UE determines that it currently stores E in its battery. UE Joule, which is currently using P UE The rate at which energy is collected by the watt, or its EF UE Energy factor value (e.g., EF) UE =0.4 indicates that the battery level is 40%.

[0109] Then, the UE can assess whether: E UE >E T P UE >P T ,or EF UE >EF T

[0110] If this condition applies, the standard can be considered met. In this case, the UE can be considered allowed to attempt to access the network node, and therefore the UE continues to request access to the NW.

[0111] In some examples, the information 202 received from the NW may additionally or alternatively include another standard for enabling the UE to determine whether the UE is prohibited from requesting access. In this regard, the standard may be based on whether the UE is an energy harvesting device or an AIoT device (e.g., the information may include, in particular, energy parameters such as “uac-AIoTEnergyFactor”, which will be discussed in further detail below).

[0112] In some examples, the standard can be based on whether the UE is a specific type of EH or AIoT device (e.g., Type A AIoT device to Type C AIoT device), and determining whether the standard is met includes the UE assessing its device type.

[0113] In some examples, this information (along with the criteria and energy parameters used to determine whether a UE is prohibited from requesting access) is determined by the NW. The NW may determine this information based at least in part on the determined service load (i.e., the current level of load or an estimated amount of load expected in the future). For example, if the NW is currently experiencing a high load, or if it anticipates likely to experience a high load (such as a large number of access requests from multiple AIoT devices within a short period of time), the NW may determine this information and set threshold levels for the criteria and energy parameters to selectively (and dynamically—via SIB 1 messages) control access by limiting access to all or certain categories of AIoT devices (e.g., AIoT devices with low energy conditions / states; A, B, or C category AIoT devices), thereby avoiding / reducing the risk of NW overload and exceeding its capacity.

[0114] In some examples, in response to the UE determining that the criteria are not met and therefore the UE has been denied access, the UE delays subsequent access attempts.

[0115] The UE can delay its subsequent access attempts for a certain period of time (i.e., the UE will delay sending requests to access network nodes for a certain delay period). In some examples, the UE determines such a delay period, which is calculated by modifying the default time period, i.e., modifying the calculation of the T390 timer [which is typically calculated as T390 = (0.7 + 0.6)]. rand) The delay time period can be calculated in a way that allows for increasing and / or maximizing the default time period. For example, the delay time period (i.e., the modified T390 timer) can be calculated as follows: (0.7+0.6) uac-BarringTime.

[0116] In this respect, the random number "rand" between 0 and 1 used in the traditional calculation of T390 is effectively set to equal to 1.

[0117] Figure 3 This is a signaling diagram illustrating an example process for controlling network access. In this example, the traditional User-Agent Control (UAC) has been extended for AIoT devices.

[0118] In box 0, the network (i.e., gNB 120) broadcasts the UE’s access class prohibition restriction information, which includes AIoT-specific additional parameters (examples of additional AIoT-specific parameters are shown in the following excerpts of example MIB and SIB1 messages).

[0119] In this regard, in addition to the usual prohibition and restriction information, such as prohibition factors, prohibition times and prohibition indicators for each AI, the network can provide one or more AIoT-specific parameters, such as energy parameters related to the common energy threshold or common energy factor conditions / standards that the UE / AIoT device needs to evaluate before sending a connection request.

[0120] Common energy thresholds / factors can correspond to the aforementioned energy thresholds / energy factors (e.g., E). T P T and EF T The common energy threshold / factor can be an initial / baseline parameter value, which can then be adjusted / updated via SIB1 messages.

[0121] The energy threshold or energy factor can differ depending on the type of AIoT device. For example, the energy factor value of a Type C AIoT device can be higher than that of a Type B AIoT device.

[0122] The information sent in Box 1 can be communicated via MIB or SIB based on the assessment to be considered (e.g., cell prohibition, cell retention, or UAC).

[0123] In box 1, after power-on, the UE searches for the gNB's cell, decodes the Master Information Block (MIB), and stores the MIB.

[0124] Since the number of AIoT devices within a cell can be very large, the MIB can include individual access prohibition criteria for AIoT devices (e.g., the "CellBarredAIoT" field, as shown in the following excerpt from an example MIB). The AIoT / UE checks if CellBarredAIoT = barred, and if so, the UE stops there. If not, the UE moves to the next step. Advantageously, under high network load conditions, this provides the network with a method to indicate to a large number of AIoT devices that their access is prohibited / blocked without denying them access.

[0125] If the CellBarredAIoT field is "Prohibited", this means that all types of AIoT devices (e.g., each device type: A, B, and C) are prohibited from accessing. In this case, the prohibited AIoT devices will proceed to box 3, that is, SIB1 will not be decoded / evaluated in box 2.

[0126] The following are examples of new parameters that may be included in the TS 38.331 MIB (highlighted in bold and underline). -- ASN1START -- TAG-MIB-START MIB ::= SEQUENCE { systemFrameNumber BIT STRING (SIZE (6)), subCarrierSpacingCommon ENUMERATED {scs15or60, scs30or120}, ssb-SubcarrierOffset INTEGER (0..15), dmrs-TypeA-Position ENUMERATED {pos2, pos3}, pdcch-ConfigSIB1 PDCCH-ConfigSIB1, cellBarred ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred}, cellBarredAIoT ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred}, intraFreqReselection ENUMERATED {allowed, notAllowed}, spare bit string (size (1)) } -- TAG-MIB-STOP -- ASN1STOP

[0127] in: cellBarred value barred This indicates that the cell is disabled, as defined in TS 38.304. IAB-MT ignores this field. This field is ignored for connections to NTN. AIoT also ignores this field. cellBarredAIoT value barred This indicates that the cell is prohibited from being used for AIoT devices (i.e., all types of AIoT devices). This field is ignored by all other fields except for AIoT devices.

[0128] In box 2, if the CellBarredAIoT field is “notBarred”, the UE needs to decode and evaluate SIB1 to perform AIoT device type-specific prohibition evaluation.

[0129] SIB1 contains additional information regarding AIoT device type-specific prohibitions, as well as any dynamic adjustment of the energy factor, i.e., replacing the common energy factor of box 0 by supplying a new energy factor. The energy factor can be determined by the gNB, can be dynamically adjusted based on network load, and the adjusted / updated value of the energy factor can be sent to the UE via an SIB message.

[0130] Based on network load, the gNB / network can adjust the "energy factor," for example, to stop or reduce access for low-energy UEs. Configuring the "energy factor" value close to 0 means that devices are allowed to send connection requests even in low-energy mode. A low energy factor can lead to connection failures because the UE may run out of energy before completing the connection request (and sending data to the network). Therefore, the network can configure a low energy factor when network load is low and / or network resources are not scarce. In contrast, an energy factor close to 1 means that the device is only allowed to send connection requests when it is in high-energy mode, such as if it has almost full battery power / high energy receive / collect rate. The network can configure a high energy factor when network load is high. However, this will cause the UE to miss the opportunity to connect even if it has enough energy (e.g., 75% battery) to successfully complete / issue the connection request. If the network identifies that current / expected traffic exceeds system limits, the network can apply restrictions to all AIoT devices (using MIB) or specific device types of AIoT (using SIB1), or it can modify the "energy factor" threshold value to keep traffic within system limits.

[0131] In one example scenario, the prohibition information can be configured to be selectively applied to low-priority UEs. Such low-priority UEs can be defined as Type A AIoT backscatter devices without energy storage capabilities.

[0132] In another example scenario, the prohibition information can be configured to be selectively applied to medium-priority UEs. Such a medium-priority UE can be defined as a Type B AIoT device with energy storage capabilities and a backscattering capability.

[0133] In another example scenario, the prohibition information can be configured to be selectively applied to high-priority UEs. Such high-priority UEs can be defined as Type C AIoT devices with full capabilities to perform network registration (uplink and downlink) as well as MO and MT operations.

[0134] Device prioritization can also be based on other criteria, particularly the AIoT device’s task reporting cycle, the amount of data / payload that needs to be sent / reported to the network, the required data transmission rate, and / or the priority / importance assigned to the data that the AIoT device needs to report to the network.

[0135] The following are examples of new parameters that may be included in the TS 38.331 SIB1 message (highlighted in bold and underline): -- ASN1START -- TAG-SIB1-START SIB1 ::= SEQUENCE { cellSelectionInfo SEQUENCE { q-RxLevMin Q-RxLevMin, q-RxLevMinOffset INTEGER (1..8) OPTIONAL, -- Need S q-RxLevMinSUL Q-RxLevMin OPTIONAL, -- Need R q-QualMin Q-QualMin OPTIONAL, -- Need S q-QualMinOffset INTEGER (1..8) OPTIONAL -- Need S } OPTIONAL, --Cond Standalone cellAccessRelatedInfo CellAccessRelatedInfo, connEstFailureControl ConnEstFailureControl OPTIONAL, -- Need R si-SchedulingInfo SI-SchedulingInfo OPTIONAL, -- Need R servingCellConfigCommon ServingCellConfigCommonSIB OPTIONAL, --Need R ims-EmergencySupport ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R eCallOverIMS-Support ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R ue-TimersAndConstants UE-TimersAndConstants OPTIONAL, -- Need R uac-BarringInfo SEQUENCE { uac-AIoTEnergyFactor UAC-BarringParameterForAIoT OPTIONAL, -- Need S uac-BarringForCommon UAC-BarringPerCatList OPTIONAL, -- Need S uac-BarringPerPLMN-List UAC-BarringPerPLMN-List OPTIONAL, --Need S uac-BarringInfoSetList UAC-BarringInfoSetList, uac-AccessCategory1-SelectionAssistanceInfo CHOICE { plmnCommon UAC-AccessCategory1-SelectionAssistanceInfo, individualPLMNList SEQUENCE (SIZE (2..maxPLMN)) OF UAC-AccessCategory1-SelectionAssistanceInfo } OPTIONAL -- Need S } OPTIONAL, -- Need R useFullResumeID ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R lateNonCriticalExtension OCTET STRING OPTIONAL, nonCriticalExtension SIB1-v1610-IEs OPTIONAL } SIB1-v1610-IEs ::= SEQUENCE { idleModeMeasurementsEUTRA-r16 ENUMERATED{true} OPTIONAL, -- NeedR idleModeMeasurementsNR-r16 ENUMERATED{true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R posSI-SchedulingInfo-r16 PosSI-SchedulingInfo-r16 OPTIONAL, --Need R nonCriticalExtension SIB1-v1630-IEs OPTIONAL } SIB1-v1630-IEs ::= SEQUENCE { uac-BarringInfo-v1630 SEQUENCE { uac-AC1-SelectAssistInfo-r16 SEQUENCE (SIZE (2..maxPLMN)) OFUAC-AC1-SelectAssistInfo-r16 } OPTIONAL, -- Need R nonCriticalExtension SIB1-v1700-IEs OPTIONAL } SIB1-v1700-IEs ::= SEQUENCE { hsdn-Cell-r17 ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R uac-BarringInfo-v1700 SEQUENCE { uac-BarringInfoSetList-v1700 UAC-BarringInfoSetList-v1700 } OPTIONAL, -- Cond MINT sdt-ConfigCommon-r17 SDT-ConfigCommonSIB-r17 OPTIONAL, -- Need R redCap-ConfigCommon-r17 RedCap-ConfigCommonSIB-r17 OPTIONAL, --Need R featurePriorities-r17 SEQUENCE { redCapPriority-r17 FeaturePriority-r17 OPTIONAL, -- Need R slicingPriority-r17 FeaturePriority-r17 OPTIONAL, -- Need R msg3-Repetitions-Priority-r17 FeaturePriority-r17 OPTIONAL,-- Need R sdt-Priority-r17 FeaturePriority-r17 OPTIONAL -- Need R } OPTIONAL, -- Need R si-SchedulingInfo-v1700 SI-SchedulingInfo-v1700 OPTIONAL, -- NeedR hyperSFN-r17 BIT STRING (SIZE (10)) OPTIONAL, -- Need R eDRX-AllowedIdle-r17 ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R eDRX-AllowedInactive-r17 ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- CondEDRX-RC intraFreqReselectionRedCap-r17 ENUMERATED {allowed, notAllowed}OPTIONAL, -- Need S cellBarredNTN-r17 ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred} OPTIONAL, --Need S nonCriticalExtension SIB1-v1740-IEs OPTIONAL } SIB1-v1740-IEs ::= SEQUENCE { si-SchedulingInfo-v1740 SI-SchedulingInfo-v1740 OPTIONAL, -- NeedR nonCriticalExtension SEQUENCE {} OPTIONAL } UAC-AccessCategory1-SelectionAssistanceInfo ::= ENUMERATED {a, b, c} UAC-AC1-SelectAssistInfo-r16 ::= ENUMERATED {a, b, c, notConfigured} SDT-ConfigCommonSIB-r17 ::= SEQUENCE { sdt-RSRP-Threshold-r17 RSRP-Range OPTIONAL, -- Need R sdt-LogicalChannelSR-DelayTimer-r17 ENUMERATED { sf20, sf40,sf64, sf128, sf512, sf1024, sf2560, spare1} OPTIONAL, -- Need R sdt-DataVolumeThreshold-r17 ENUMERATED {byte32, byte100, byte200,byte400, byte600, byte800, byte1000, byte2000, byte4000, byte8000, byte9000,byte10000, byte12000, byte24000, byte48000, byte96000}, t319a-r17 ENUMERATED { ms100, ms200, ms300, ms400, ms600, ms1000,ms2000, ms3000, ms4000, spare7, spare6, spare5, spare4, spare3, spare2,spare1} } RedCap-ConfigCommonSIB-r17 ::= SEQUENCE { halfDuplexRedCapAllowed-r17 ENUMERATED {true} OPTIONAL, -- Need R cellBarredRedCap-r17 SEQUENCE { cellBarredRedCap1Rx-r17 ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred}, cellBarredRedCap2Rx-r17 ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred} } AIoT-ConfigCommonSIB ::= SEQUENCE { cellBarredAIoT SEQUENCE { cellBarredAIoT-DeviceA ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred}, cellBarredAIoT-DeviceB ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred}, cellBarredAIoT-DeviceC ENUMERATED {barred, notBarred} } OPTIONAL, -- Need R OPTIONAL, -- Need R ... } FeaturePriority-r17 ::= INTEGER (0..7) -- TAG-SIB1-STOP -- ASN1STOP

[0136] In box 3, if a UE wants to send a connection request to attempt access, it maps its access attempt to an AC and one or more AIs based on defined mapping rules (i.e., the rules specified in the standard). The UE then checks whether its request is prohibited for a given cell, i.e., the cell it is attempting to connect to, by evaluating the prohibition information and energy factor sent in the MIB / SIB1 message. For example, the UE may evaluate the value of the energy factor parameter and compare it to a threshold value for the energy factor provided in the MIB / SIB1 message.

[0137] In the scenario shown in Case 1, in box 4, the UE determines, based on the evaluation performed in box 3, that it is not prohibited from issuing a connection request. In response to this determination, in box 4a, the UE sends a connection request.

[0138] In the scenario shown in Case 2, in box 4, the UE determines that it is prohibited from issuing connection requests based on the assessment performed in box 3. In response to this determination, in box 4a, the UE calculates T390 by considering the "energy factor" of the AIoT device. T390 defines the duration for which the UE considers the cell to be prohibited for the corresponding access category. Traditionally, T390 is calculated as: T390 = (0.7 + 0.6) rand) uac-BarringTime

[0139] However, in the example disclosed herein, the T390 time period can be adjusted, for example, increased or maximized, such as by replacing the value of the variable "rand" with 1, i.e.: T390 = (0.7 + 0.6) uac-BarringTime

[0140] In box 4c, after calculating T390, in box 4b, the UE then waits for T390 to expire and, based on the prohibition evaluation criteria, returns to step 1 (if the prohibition is performed at the MIB level) or step 2 (if the prohibition is performed at the SIB1 level).

[0141] Advantageously, the examples of this disclosure may provide one or more of the following: • Reduce the number of connection request failures caused by low power consumption. • Limit low-power UE attempts to access the network to reduce network congestion. • Reduce network load and provide dynamic adjustment of the energy factor in SIB1. • Provide active blocking (e.g., if the network load is high, stop low-priority or low-energy UEs from trying to access by changing the energy factor). • Reduce unnecessary transmissions on the UE side. • Reduce the power consumption of the UE.

[0142] The following scenario illustrates a use case for the currently proposed network access control method. In most AIoT-related use cases (especially Type C AIoT devices that can effectively act as UEs), traffic primarily consists of uplink UL data, which is either periodically generated (e.g., smart meters) or bursty data generated when an event is detected. Due to low cost, AIoT devices can be deployed in large numbers at high density (i.e., more AIoT devices within a single cell). For example, low moisture or mineral concentrations in crop soil behavior can cause a surge in UL traffic from AIoT sensors, putting pressure on the gNB receiver. Based on early event reports received from some AIoTs, the gNB can be able to determine that a large number of AIoTs may attempt to access the gNB / network to send the same event report, potentially exceeding the capacity of the gNB / network. In this case, it can be beneficial for the gNB to block access to certain UEs with some shared identifiers or low priority, i.e., to block / reduce access to all AIoTs or low-priority AIoTs, such as AIoTs in low-energy mode (e.g., with low battery power or low energy reception / collection rates).

[0143] It should be understood that Figure 2 and Figure 3 Each of the boxes and block combinations shown, as well as the other functions described above, can be implemented in various ways, such as hardware, firmware, and / or software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the functions described above can be performed by a suitably configured device (such as a device or UE that includes components for performing the functions described above). One or more of the functions / functionalities described above can be embodied by a suitably configured computer program (such as a computer program including computer program instructions that embody the functions / functionalities described above, and can be stored in a memory storage device and executed by a processor).

[0144] As will be understood, any such computer program instructions can be loaded onto a computer or other programmable device (i.e., hardware) to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute on the programmable device, create parts for implementing the function / functionality specified in the box. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable medium that can instruct the programmable device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in a computer-readable memory produce an article of art including instruction parts that implement the function specified in the box. Computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a programmable device to cause a series of operations to be performed within the programmable device, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that the instructions, which execute on the programmable device, provide actions for implementing the function / functionality specified in the box.

[0145] The various, but not all, examples disclosed herein may take the form of methods, apparatus, or computer programs. Therefore, the various, but not all, examples may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0146] Various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure are described using flowcharts and schematic block diagrams. It should be understood that each block (flowchart and block diagram) and combinations of blocks can be implemented by computer program instructions of a computer program. These program instructions can be provided to one or more processors, processing circuitry systems, or controllers such that instructions executing thereon create components for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks, thus enabling the method to be implemented by a computer. The computer program instructions can be executed by the processor(s) to cause the processor(s) to perform a series of operation blocks / steps / actions, thereby producing a computer-implemented process, such that instructions executing on the processor(s) provide blocks / steps for implementing the functions specified in one or more blocks.

[0147] Therefore, these boxes support: combinations of components for performing a specified function; combinations of actions for performing a specified function; and computer program instructions / algorithms for performing a specified function. It will also be understood that each box and combination of boxes can be implemented by a dedicated hardware-based system that performs the specified function or action, or by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer program instructions.

[0148] Various, but not limited to, examples of this disclosure provide a method and corresponding apparatus, the apparatus comprising various modules, components, or circuit systems that provide functionality for performing / applying the actions of the method. These modules, components, or circuit systems may be implemented as hardware or as software or firmware executed by a computer processor. In the case of firmware or software, examples of this disclosure may be provided as a computer program product comprising a computer-readable storage structure embodying computer program instructions (i.e., software or firmware) for execution by a computer processor.

[0149] Figure 4 The illustration shows an example of business changes that can be achieved using the methods described above.

[0150] When the network identifies that the service level is close to or exceeds the system limit, the network can: use MIB to restrict access for all AIoT devices, use SIB1 to restrict access for specific device types of AIoT devices, or modify the energy factor to keep the service below the system limit.

[0151] Figure 5 The illustration schematically depicts the methods used to perform the tasks described in this disclosure and in... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a block diagram of the apparatus 10 for methods, processes, procedures, and signaling. In this respect, the apparatus can perform the role of a UE / AIoT device 110 or a gNB 120 in the methods shown and described above. Figure 4 The component box is functional, and the described functionality can be performed by a single physical entity.

[0152] The device includes a controller 11, which can be located in a device such as a UE / AIoT device 110 or a gNB 120.

[0153] The controller 11 may be embodied by a computing device, particularly those described above. In some, but not all, examples, the device may be embodied as a chip, chipset, circuit system, or module, i.e., for any of the above. As used herein, 'module' refers to a unit or device that does not include certain parts / components added by the end manufacturer or user.

[0154] The controller 11 can be implemented as a controller circuit system. The controller 11 can be implemented solely in hardware, have certain aspects in software, including separate firmware, or can be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0155] The controller 11 can be implemented using instructions capable of implementing hardware functions, for example, by using executable instructions of a computer program 14 in a general-purpose or special-purpose processor 12, which can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium 13, such as a memory or disk, for execution by such processor 12.

[0156] Processor 12 is configured to read from and write to memory 13. Processor 12 may also include output and input interfaces, with data and / or commands output by processor 12 via the output interface and data and / or commands input to processor 12 via the input interface. The device may be coupled to or include one or more other components 15 (in particular: radio transceivers, sensors, input / output user interface elements, and / or other modules / devices / components for inputting and outputting data / commands).

[0157] Memory 13 stores instructions, such as computer program 14, which include instructions (e.g., computer program instructions / code) that control the operation of device 10 when loaded into processor 12. The instructions of computer program 14 provide logic and routines that enable the device to perform the operations described herein and in [the context of the disclosure]. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The methods, processes, and procedures illustrated in the diagram. Processor 12 is able to load and execute computer program 14 by reading memory 13.

[0158] Instructions can be included in a computer program, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, a computer program product, or a machine-readable medium. As used herein, the term "non-transitory" refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM vs. ROM). In some, but not all, examples, computer program instructions may be distributed across multiple computer programs.

[0159] Although memory 13 is illustrated as a single component / circuit system, it can be implemented as one or more separate component / circuit systems, some or all of which may be integrated / removable and / or provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0160] Although processor 12 is illustrated as a single component / circuit system, it can be implemented as one or more separate component / circuit systems, some or all of which may be integrated or removable. Processor 12 may be a single-core or multi-core processor.

[0161] The apparatus may include methods for implementing the features described herein and in... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The diagram illustrates one or more components of a method, process, or procedure. The functionality of these components is intended to be combined within one or more components, or performed by other components with equivalent functionality. The description of the functionality should also be considered as disclosing any parts suitable for performing that functionality.

[0162] When a structural feature is described, it can be replaced by a component for performing one or more functions of that structural feature, whether or not the function or these functions are explicitly or implicitly described.

[0163] Although examples of the device, including various components, have been described above, it should be understood that these components may be embodied in, or controlled by, a corresponding controller or circuit system, such as one or more processing elements or processors of the device. In this respect, each of the aforementioned components may be one or more of any device, apparatus, or circuit system embodied in hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software, configured to perform the corresponding function of the aforementioned component.

[0164] For example, the device can be: a wireless communication device, a client device, a location / location tag, a super tag, a handheld portable electronic device, a mobile cellular phone, a server device, a base station in a mobile cellular telecommunications system, etc. The device can be implemented by a computing device, especially those mentioned above. However, in some examples, the device can be embodied as a chip, chipset, circuit system, or module, i.e., for any of the above.

[0165] In the example where the device is located within the UE / AIoT device 110, the device includes: At least one processor 12; and At least one memory 13 stores instructions that, when executed by at least one processor 12, cause the device to at least: Receive information from a network node indicating one or more standards, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Determine whether one or more criteria are met; and The request to access the network node is based at least in part on this determination.

[0166] In the example where the device is located within gNB 120, the device includes: At least one processor 12; and At least one memory 13 stores instructions that, when executed by at least one processor 12, cause the device to at least: Send information to the device indicating one or more criteria, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to a network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter; The device receives a request to access a network node, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from receiving information; and The device is authorized to access the network node, at least in part, based on this request.

[0167] According to some examples of this disclosure, a system is provided that includes at least one UE / AIoT 110 and gNB 120 as described above.

[0168] The examples above are used as enabling components for the following systems: tracking systems; automotive systems; telecommunications systems; electronic systems, including consumer electronics; distributed computing systems; media systems for generating or rendering media content, including audio, video, and audiovisual content, as well as mixed, mediated, virtual, and / or augmented reality; personal systems, including personal health systems or personal fitness systems; navigation systems; user interfaces, also known as human-machine interfaces; networks, including cellular, non-cellular, and optical networks; ad-hoc networks; the Internet of Things (IoT); vehicle-to-everything (V2X) networks; virtualized networks; and related software and services.

[0169] According to the examples of this disclosure, the device can be located in an electronic device, such as a mobile terminal. However, it should be understood that a mobile terminal is merely an example of an electronic device that will benefit from implementations of this disclosure, and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of this disclosure. While in some implementation examples the device can be located in a mobile terminal, other types of electronic devices, such as, but not limited to: mobile communication devices, portable electronic devices, wearable computing devices, portable digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, mobile computers, desktop computers, televisions, gaming devices, laptop computers, cameras, video recorders, GPS devices, and other types of electronic systems, can readily adopt the examples of this disclosure. Furthermore, devices can readily adopt the examples of this disclosure regardless of their intention to provide mobility.

[0170] Figure 6The illustration depicts a computer program 14 that can be transmitted via delivery mechanism 20. Delivery mechanism 20 can be any suitable delivery mechanism, such as a machine-readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a solid-state storage device, a recording medium such as an optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or a digital versatile optical disc (DVD), or an article of manufacture that includes or tangibly embodies the computer program 14. The delivery mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably transmit the computer program. The apparatus can receive, propagate, or transmit the computer program as a computer data signal.

[0171] In some examples of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a device (UE / AIoT 110), causes the device to perform at least the following or to induce the performance of at least the following: Receive information from a network node indicating one or more standards, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more standards are based on at least one energy parameter; Determine whether one or more criteria are met; and The request to access the network node is based at least in part on this determination.

[0172] In some examples of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions, when executed by a network node (gNB 120), causes the device to perform at least the following or to cause at least the following to be performed: Send information to the device (UE 110) indicating one or more criteria, which enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter; The device receives a request to access a network node, wherein the request is at least partially in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked from receiving information; and The device is authorized to access the network node, at least in part, based on this request.

[0173] References to 'computer program,' 'computer-readable storage medium,' 'computer program product,' 'tangibly embodied computer program,' or 'controller,' 'computer,' 'processor,' etc., should be understood to encompass not only computers with different architectures, such as single / multiprocessor architectures and sequential (von Neumann) / parallel architectures, but also special-purpose circuits, such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific circuits (ASICs), signal processing devices, and other devices. References to computer programs, instructions, code, etc., should be understood to encompass software or firmware used with programmable processors, such as the programmable content of hardware devices, whether instructions for the processor or configuration settings for fixed-function devices, gate arrays, or programmable logic devices, etc.

[0174] As used in this application, the term 'circuit system' may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (such as implementation in analog and / or digital circuit systems only) and (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable): (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and (ii) Any part of a hardware processor (including digital signal processors), software, and memory (including multiple memory) having software, which work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions, and (c) (Multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion thereof, which require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may be absent when the software is not required to operate.

[0175] This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claim. As another example, as used in this application, the term circuit system also covers only the implementation of hardware circuitry or processors and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, if applicable to a particular claim element, the term circuit system also covers baseband integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or networking devices.

[0176] Although specific terms are used in this article, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense, not for restrictive purposes.

[0177] The features described above can be used in combinations other than those explicitly described.

[0178] Although some features have been described with reference to certain characteristics, these functions can be performed by other features, whether or not they are described.

[0179] While features have been described with reference to certain examples, these features may also exist in other examples, whether or not they are described. Therefore, a feature associated with one example / aspect of the invention may include any or all features associated with another example or aspect of the invention, and vice versa, provided they do not contradict each other.

[0180] Although various examples of this disclosure have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that modifications may be made to the given examples without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the claims.

[0181] The term 'comprise' as used in this document is inclusive rather than exclusive. That is, any reference to X that includes Y means that X may include only one Y or may include more than one Y. If the intention is to use 'comprise' with an exclusive meaning, it will be clearly stated in the context by referring to 'comprising only one' or using 'consisting'.

[0182] In this specification, 'connection,' 'coupling,' and 'communication,' and their derivatives, refer to operational connection / coupling / communication. It should be understood that any number or combination of intermediate components (including no intermediate components) may be present to provide direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Any such intermediate component may include hardware and / or software components.

[0183] As used herein, the term "determine" (and its grammatical variations) can include at least: evaluation, calculation, computation, processing, derivation, measurement, investigation, identification, lookup (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), confirmation, etc. Furthermore, "determine" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), retrieving / accessing (e.g., retrieving / accessing data in storage), obtaining, etc. Additionally, "determine" can include parsing, selecting, picking, building, reasoning, etc.

[0184] As used herein, descriptions of actions should also be considered as disclosing enabling, and / or causing, and / or controlling the action. For example, a description of transmitting information should also be considered as disclosing enabling, and / or causing, and / or controlling the transmission of information. Similarly, for example, a description of a means of transmitting information should also be considered as disclosing at least one component or controller of the means that enables, and / or causes, and / or controls the means of transmitting information.

[0185] The term "component" as used in the specification and claims may refer to one or more individual elements configured to perform one or more corresponding functions, or it may refer to several elements performing such one or more functions. Furthermore, the functions recited in the claims may be performed by the same individual components or combinations of the same components. For example, the execution of such one or more functions may be caused in the device by a processor executing instructions stored in the device's memory.

[0186] Unless explicitly stated otherwise (unless the context requires otherwise), references to parameters or parameter values ​​should be understood as referring to "indicator data," "definition data," or "representation data" of the relevant parameter / parameter value. Data can indicate the relevant parameter / parameter value in any way, and can indicate the relevant parameter / parameter value directly or indirectly.

[0187] Various examples are referenced in this specification. Descriptions of features or functions associated with an example indicate that such features or functions exist in that example. The use of the terms 'example,' 'for example,' 'maybe,' or 'can' in the text indicates (whether explicitly stated or not) that such features or functions exist at least in the described example, whether or not they are described as examples, and that they may, but not necessarily, exist in some or all other examples. Therefore, 'example,' 'for example,' 'maybe,' or 'can' refers to a specific instance of a class of examples. An instance's properties can be properties of only that instance, properties of the class, or properties of subclasses of the class that include some, but not all, instances of that class.

[0188] In this specification, unless otherwise expressly stated, references to “a / an / the” [feature, element, component, part…] have an inclusive rather than exclusive meaning and should be interpreted as “at least one” [feature, element, component, part…]. That is, any reference to X that includes one (a) / the (the) Y indicates that X may include only one Y or may include more than one Y, unless the context clearly indicates the opposite. If the exclusive meaning of 'a (a)' or 'the' is intended to be used, it will be clearly stated in the context. In some cases, 'at least one' or 'one or more' may be used to emphasize the inclusive meaning, but the omission of these terms should not be construed as inferring any exclusive meaning. As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording (where the list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”) means at least any one of these elements, or at least any two or more of these elements, or at least all of these elements.

[0189] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature or combination of features itself, as well as a reference to a feature (equivalent feature) that achieves substantially the same technical effect. Equivalent features include, for example, features that are variations and that achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same manner. Equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function in substantially the same manner to achieve substantially the same result.

[0190] In this specification, various examples are referenced, and adjectives or adjective phrases are used to describe the characteristics of the examples. This description of a characteristic related to an example indicates that the characteristic exists exactly as described in some examples and substantially as described in others.

[0191] In the foregoing description, the described apparatus may alternatively or additionally include an apparatus that, in some other examples, comprises a distributed apparatus system, such as a client / server apparatus system. In examples where the provided apparatus forms (or the method is implemented as) a distributed system, each apparatus forming a component and / or part of the system provides (or implements) one or more features that collectively implement the embodiments of this disclosure. In some examples, the apparatus is reconfigured by an entity other than its initial manufacturer to implement the embodiments of this disclosure by being provided with additional software, such as by a user who downloads such software, which, when executed, causes the apparatus to implement the embodiments of this disclosure (such implementation is either entirely implemented by the apparatus or implemented as part of the apparatus system as described above).

[0192] The foregoing description illustrates some examples of this disclosure; however, those skilled in the art will recognize possible alternative structures and methodological features that provide equivalent functionality to the specific examples of such structures and features described above, and these alternative structures and features have been omitted from the foregoing description for the sake of brevity and clarity. Nevertheless, the foregoing description should be understood to implicitly include references to such alternative structures and methodological features that provide equivalent functionality, unless such alternative structures or methodological features are expressly excluded in the foregoing description of the examples of this disclosure.

[0193] While efforts have been made in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features of particular importance in the examples of this disclosure, it should be understood that the applicant claims protection for any patentable features or combinations thereof mentioned above and / or shown in the accompanying drawings, whether or not they are specifically emphasized.

[0194] Examples in this disclosure and the appended claims can be appropriately combined in any manner that is readily apparent to a person skilled in the art. The terms "example," "in some examples," etc., used individually in the specification do not necessarily refer to the same example, nor are they mutually exclusive, unless so stated and / or unless it is readily apparent to a person skilled in the art from the specification. For example, a feature, structure, process, block, step, action, etc., described in one example may be included in other examples, but not necessarily.

[0195] Each claim is incorporated into the specification as further disclosure, and the claims are embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, while the claims herein are provided to include specific dependencies, it is contemplated that any claim may depend on any other claim, and any alternative embodiments and their equivalents are also within the scope of this disclosure, arising from the combination, integration, and / or omission of features of various claims and / or modification of the dependencies of the claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: A component for receiving information from a network node indicating one or more criteria, the one or more criteria being used to enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter; A component used to determine whether the one or more criteria are met; as well as A component for requesting access to the network node based at least in part on the determination.

2. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one energy parameter characterizes at least one of the following: The amount of energy and / or power; The amount of energy and / or power available to the device; The amount of energy stored at the device; as well as The energy receiving rate at the device.

3. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the information includes at least one threshold value of the at least one energy parameter.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the at least one threshold value of the at least one energy parameter includes: Multiple threshold values ​​for the at least one energy parameter for corresponding multiple types of devices.

5. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims further includes a component for evaluating at least one value of the at least one energy parameter for the apparatus.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, which is dependent on claim 3 or 4, wherein determining whether the one or more criteria are met includes comparing the at least one evaluation value with the at least one threshold value.

7. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the information is indicated based on whether the apparatus is at least one of the following: Energy harvesting equipment, and Environmental IoT (AIoT) devices.

8. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the information is indicated based on whether the apparatus is at least one of the following: Specific types of energy harvesting devices, and Specific types of environmental IoT (AIoT) devices.

9. The apparatus of claim 7 or 8, wherein determining whether the one or more criteria are met includes evaluating the device type of the apparatus.

10. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein: The information is received in the main information block (MIB); and The apparatus further includes components for receiving a System Information Block (SIB) from the network node, the SIB including updated information and / or replacement information.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the updated information and / or replacement information includes: One or more updated standards and / or replacement standards; as well as At least one updated threshold value and / or replacement threshold value for the at least one energy parameter.

12. The apparatus according to any preceding claim further includes a component for determining a time period for delaying the transmission of a request to access the network node, wherein determining the time period is at least in part based on the determination of whether one or more criteria are met.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein determining the time period includes at least one of the following: Modify the default time period. Add a default time period. Maximize the T390 time period, and Set the time period to: (0.7 + 0.6) Prohibited time periods.

14. The apparatus of claim 12 or 13, further comprising a component for delaying the sending of a request to the network node during the time period in response to determining that the apparatus is prohibited from requesting access to the network node.

15. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein requesting access to the network node comprises at least one of the following: Send a connection request to the network node; and Send a request to transition between a first state and a second state of the network node.

16. The apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the information is at least one or more of the following: Received from the network node via broadcast; It is received in the Unified Access Control (UAC) information; Received in the main information block (MIB); and It is received in the System Information Block (SIB).

17. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one of the following: User Equipment (UE) Energy harvesting (EH) equipment; Reduced capability of RedCap devices; Internet of Things (IoT) devices; and Environmental IoT (AIoT) devices.

18. A network node, comprising: A component for sending information to a device indicative of one or more criteria, the one or more criteria being used to enable the device to determine whether the device is prohibited from requesting access to the network node, wherein the one or more criteria are based on at least one energy parameter; Components for receiving a request from the device to access the network node, wherein the request is at least partially received in response to the device determining, based on the information, whether the device is blocked; as well as Components for authorizing the device to access the network node, at least in part, based on the request.

19. The network node according to claim 18, further comprising: Components used to determine business load; as well as Components for determining one or more of the following based at least in part on the business load: The information, The one or more standards, and At least one threshold value for the at least one energy parameter.

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