Apparatus, method and computer program

Abstract

There is provided an apparatus comprising: means for sending a request from a user device to a network node for operation in a non-connected mode in which the user device is in a sleep period in addition to a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein the packet is transmitted using acknowledgement-free transmission during the defined transmission window; means for receiving from the network node, in response to the request, an indication that the network node allows the user equipment to operate in the non-connected mode; means for transmitting a plurality of packets from the user equipment to the network node in a non-connected mode; and means for transmitting an activity report in the connected mode, the activity report comprising information relating to the plurality of packets.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to a method, apparatus, system, and computer program, and specifically, but not exclusively, to connectionless large-scale IoT. Background Technology

[0002] A communication system can be viewed as a facility that enables a communication session between two or more entities (such as user terminals, base stations, and / or other nodes) by providing carrier waves between various entities involved in the communication path. The communication system can be provided, for example, by means of a communication network and one or more compatible communication devices. The communication session may include, for example, data communication carrying communications such as voice, video, email, text messages, multimedia, and / or content data. Non-limiting examples of the services provided include two-way or multiplexed calls, data communication or multimedia services, and access to data network systems such as the Internet.

[0003] In wireless communication systems, at least a portion of a communication session between at least two stations occurs over a wireless link. Examples of wireless systems include Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs), satellite-based communication systems, and various wireless local area networks, such as Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). Some wireless systems can be divided into cells and are therefore often referred to as cellular systems.

[0004] Users can access the communication system through appropriate communication equipment or terminals. A user's communication equipment may be referred to as user equipment (UE) or user device. The communication equipment is equipped with appropriate signal receiving and transmitting means for enabling communication, such as access to the system or direct communication with other users. The communication equipment can access a carrier provided by a station (e.g., a base station in a cell) and transmit and / or receive communication on that carrier.

[0005] Communication systems and associated equipment typically operate according to a given standard or specification that outlines what the various entities associated with the system are allowed to do and how they should be implemented. The communication protocols and / or parameters used for connectivity are also usually defined. One example of a communication system is the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN) (3G radio). Other examples of communication systems include the Long Term Evolution (LTE) of UMTS radio access technology and so-called 5G or New Radio (NR) networks. NR is being standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). Other examples of communication systems include 5G Advanced (NR Rel-18 and above) and 6G. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: means for sending a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period in addition to a defined transmission window and at least one defined reception window, and wherein packets are transmitted using unacknowledged transmission during the defined transmission window; means for receiving from the network node an instruction to the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode in response to the request; means for sending a plurality of packets from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode; and means for sending an activity report in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0007] This information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode.

[0008] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or data service type information.

[0009] The apparatus may include components for sending the request in a radio resource control connection request.

[0010] The apparatus may include a component for receiving from a network node an indication that the network node is permitted to operate in a non-connectivity mode if a first condition has been met.

[0011] The first condition may include at least one of the following: downlink signal strength threshold, downlink signal quality threshold, physical random access channel power level threshold, time period since connection establishment, packet size threshold, data service type, application type, or number of packets sent since connection establishment.

[0012] The device may include components for receiving the instruction in system information or radio resource control signaling.

[0013] The apparatus may include: components for receiving a request in response to an activity report for retransmitting at least one of a plurality of packets provided in a connectionless mode from a user equipment to a network node; and components for retransmitting at least one of a plurality of packets in a connected mode from a user equipment to a network node.

[0014] The device may include components for transitioning from a connectionless mode to a connectionless mode after sending N packets in a given time period or in a connectionless mode, where N is an integer.

[0015] The device may include components for sending activity reports when a user device enters a connected mode.

[0016] The apparatus may include: components for receiving a radio resource control connection release message from a network node in response to an activity report; and components for operating a user equipment in idle mode based on the received message.

[0017] The apparatus may include a component for determining, based on application requirements or service type, to send a request for operation in a non-connected mode.

[0018] In a second aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: means for receiving, at a network node, a request from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period in addition to a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; means for sending, in response to the request, an instruction from the network node to the user equipment to the network node allowing the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; means for receiving, at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node when the user equipment is in the connectionless mode; and means for receiving, at the network node, an activity report from the user equipment when the user equipment is in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0019] The information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the multiple packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode.

[0020] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or business type information.

[0021] The apparatus may include: components for determining, based on the information, that at least one of a plurality of packets has not yet been received at the network node; components for providing a request from the network node to the user equipment for retransmission of at least one of the plurality of packets; and components for receiving at least one of the plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node when the user equipment is in connected mode.

[0022] In a third aspect, a method is provided, comprising: sending a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; receiving, in response to the request, an instruction from the network node to the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; sending multiple packets from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode; and sending an activity report in a connectionless mode, the activity report including information relating to the multiple packets.

[0023] This information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode.

[0024] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or data service type information.

[0025] The method may include sending the request in a radio resource control connection request.

[0026] The method may include receiving from the network node an indication that the network node allows operation in a non-connectivity mode if a first condition has been met.

[0027] The first condition may include at least one of the following: downlink signal strength threshold, downlink signal quality threshold, physical random access channel power level threshold, time period since connection establishment, packet size threshold, data service type, application type, or number of packets sent since connection establishment.

[0028] The method may include receiving the instruction in system information or radio resource control signaling.

[0029] The method may include: in response to an activity report, receiving a request to retransmit at least one of a plurality of packets provided in a connectionless mode from a user equipment to a network node; and retransmitting at least one of a plurality of packets from a user equipment to a network node in a connected mode.

[0030] The method may include: switching from a non-connection mode to a connection mode after a given time period, or after transmitting N packets in a non-connection mode, where N is an integer.

[0031] This method may include sending an activity report when the user device enters connected mode.

[0032] The method may include: receiving a radio resource control connection release message from a network node in response to an activity report, and operating the user equipment in an idle mode based on the received message.

[0033] This method may include: determining, based on application requirements or business type, to send a request for operation in a non-connected mode.

[0034] In a fourth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: receiving, at a network node, a request from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; in response to the request, sending from the network node to the user equipment an instruction to the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; receiving, at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node while the user equipment is in the connectionless mode; and receiving, at the network node, an activity report from the user equipment when the user equipment is in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0035] The information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the multiple packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode.

[0036] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or business type information.

[0037] The method may include: determining, based on the information, that at least one of a plurality of packets has not yet been received at the network node; providing a request from the network node to the user equipment to retransmit at least one of the plurality of packets; and, when the user equipment is in connected mode, receiving at least one of the plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node.

[0038] In a fifth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory, wherein, when executed by the at least one processor, the apparatus causes the apparatus to at least: send a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined transmission window and at least one defined reception window, and wherein packets are transmitted using unacknowledged transmission during the defined transmission window; in response to the request, receive from the network an instruction to the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; send a plurality of packets from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode; and send an activity report in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0039] This information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode.

[0040] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or data service type information.

[0041] The device can be configured to send the request in a radio resource control connection request.

[0042] The device can be configured to: receive from the network node an indication that the network node allows operation in a non-connectivity mode if a first condition has been met.

[0043] The first condition may include at least one of the following: downlink signal strength threshold, downlink signal quality threshold, physical random access channel power level threshold, time period since connection establishment, packet size threshold, data service type, application type, or number of packets sent since connection establishment.

[0044] The device can be configured to receive the instruction in system information or radio resource control signaling.

[0045] The apparatus can be configured to: receive a request, in response to an activity report, to retransmit at least one of a plurality of packets provided in a connectionless mode from a user equipment to a network node; and to retransmit at least one of a plurality of packets in a connected mode from a user equipment to a network node.

[0046] The device can be configured to switch from a non-connection mode to a connection mode after a given time period, or after transmitting N packets in a non-connection mode, where N is an integer.

[0047] This device can be configured to send an activity report when the user equipment enters connected mode.

[0048] The device can be configured to: receive a radio resource control connection release message from a network node in response to an activity report, and operate the user equipment in idle mode based on the received message.

[0049] This device can be configured to: determine whether to send a request for operation in a non-connected mode based on application requirements or service type.

[0050] In a sixth aspect, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory, wherein, when executed by the at least one processor, the apparatus causes the apparatus to at least: receive, at a network node, a request from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; in response to the request, send an instruction from the network node to the user equipment to the network node allowing the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; while the user equipment is in the connectionless mode, receive, at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node; and when the user equipment is in a connected mode, receive, at the network node, an activity report from the user equipment, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0051] The information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the multiple packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode.

[0052] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or business type information.

[0053] The apparatus can be configured to: determine, based on the information, that at least one of a plurality of packets has not yet been received at the network node; provide a request from the network node to the user equipment to retransmit at least one of the plurality of packets while the user equipment is in connected mode; and receive at least one of the plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node.

[0054] In a seventh aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: sending a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined transmission window and at least one defined reception window, and wherein packets are transmitted using unacknowledged transmission during the defined transmission window; receiving, in response to the request, an instruction from the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; sending a plurality of packets from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode; and sending an activity report in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0055] This information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode.

[0056] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or data service type information.

[0057] The device can be made to perform: sending a request in a radio resource control connection request.

[0058] The device can be made to perform: receiving from the network node an indication that the network node allows operation in a non-connectivity mode if a first condition has been met.

[0059] The first condition may include at least one of the following: downlink signal strength threshold, downlink signal quality threshold, physical random access channel power level threshold, time period since connection establishment, packet size threshold, data service type, application type, or number of packets sent since connection establishment.

[0060] The device can be made to perform: receiving the instruction in system information or radio resource control signaling.

[0061] The apparatus can be made to perform: in response to an activity report, receive a request to retransmit at least one of a plurality of packets provided in a connectionless mode from the user equipment to the network node; and retransmit at least one of a plurality of packets in a connection mode from the user equipment to the network node.

[0062] The device can be made to switch from a non-connection mode to a connection mode after a given time period, or after transmitting N packets in a non-connection mode, where N is an integer.

[0063] The device can be made to send an activity report when the user equipment enters connected mode.

[0064] The device can be made to: receive a radio resource control connection release message from a network node in response to an activity report; and operate the user equipment in idle mode based on the received message.

[0065] The device can be made to: determine whether to send a request for operation in non-connected mode based on application requirements or service type.

[0066] In an eighth aspect, a computer-readable medium is provided, comprising instructions that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: receiving, at a network node, a request from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are transmitted by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; in response to the request, sending from the network node to the user equipment an instruction to the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; receiving, at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node while the user equipment is in the connectionless mode; and receiving, at the network node, an activity report from the user equipment when the user equipment is in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0067] The information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the multiple packets received from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode.

[0068] The request may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or business type information.

[0069] The apparatus can be made to: determine, based on the information, that at least one of a plurality of packets has not yet been received at the network node; provide a request from the network node to the user equipment for retransmission of at least one of the plurality of packets; and, when the user equipment is in connected mode, receive at least one of the plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node.

[0070] In a ninth aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, comprising program instructions for causing a device to perform at least the method according to a third or fourth aspect.

[0071] Many different embodiments have been described above. It should be understood that other embodiments can be provided by any combination of two or more of the above embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0072] Embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example 5GS communication system is shown; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an example mobile communication device is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an example control device is shown; Figure 4 A timeline of example LoRa operation is shown; Figure 5 An example call flow for connectionless operation is shown; Figure 6 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 7 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 8 The signaling flow between the UE and gNB according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating the behavior of the UE according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating the behavior of the UE according to an example embodiment is shown; Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating the behavior of a BS according to an example embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Before explaining the examples in detail, refer to Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 A brief explanation of some general principles of wireless communication systems and mobile communication devices is provided to help understand the underlying technology of the described examples.

[0074] A suitable example of a communication system is the 5G or NR concept. The network architecture in NR can be similar to that of an advanced version of LTE. Base stations in an NR system can be referred to as next-generation node Bs (gNBs). Changes to the network architecture can depend on the need to support various radio technologies and the requirement for more granular quality of service (QoS) support, as well as some on-demand requirements for, for example, QoS levels to support quality of experience (QoE) for users. Furthermore, network-aware services and applications, and service and application-aware networks, may bring about changes to the architecture. These relate to information-centric networks (ICNs) and user-centric content delivery networks (UC-CDNs). NR can use multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, far more base stations or nodes than LTE (the so-called small cell concept), including macro sites cooperating with smaller stations, and may also employ various radio technologies to achieve better coverage and enhanced data rates.

[0075] Future networks can leverage Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), a network architecture concept that proposes virtualizing network node functions as "building blocks" or entities that can be operationally connected or associated to provide services. Virtualized network functions (VNFs) can include one or more virtual machines running computer program code using standard or general-purpose servers instead of custom hardware. Cloud computing or data storage can also be utilized. In radio communications, this can mean that node operations are performed, at least partially, in servers, hosts, or nodes operationally coupled to a remote radio head. Node operations can also be distributed across multiple servers, nodes, or hosts. It should also be understood that the division of labor between core network operations and base station operations may differ from, or even not exist, in LTE.

[0076] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a 5G system (5GS) 100 is shown. The 5GS may include a user equipment (UE) 102 (which may also be referred to as a communication device or terminal), a 5G radio access network (5GRAN) 104, a 5G core network (5GCN) 106, one or more internal or external application functions (AF) 108, and one or more data networks (DN) 110.

[0077] The example 5G core network (CN) includes functional entities. 5GCN 106 may include one or more Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF) 112, one or more Session Management Functions (SMF) 114, Authentication Server Function (AUSF) 116, Unified Data Management (UDM) 118, one or more User Plane Functions (UPF) 120, Unified Data Repository (UDR) 122, and / or Network Openness Function (NEF) 124. The UPF is controlled by the SMF (Session Management Function) that receives policies from the PCF (Policy Control Function).

[0078] The CN connects to the UE via a radio access network (RAN). The 5G RAN may include one or more gNodeB (gNB) distributed unit (DU) functions connected to one or more gNodeB (gNB) centralized unit (CU) functions. The RAN may include one or more access nodes.

[0079] The User Plane Function (UPF), known as the PDU Session Anchor (PSA), is responsible for forwarding frames back and forth between the DN and the tunnel established via 5G for (multiple) UEs exchanging traffic with that DN.

[0080] Now refer to Figure 2 A more detailed description of possible mobile communication devices, Figure 2A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a communication device 200 is shown. Such a communication device is generally referred to as a user equipment (UE) or terminal. Suitable mobile communication devices can be provided by any device capable of transmitting and receiving radio signals. Non-limiting examples include: mobile stations (MS) or mobile devices (such as mobile phones or so-called smartphones), computers equipped with wireless interface cards or other wireless interface facilities (e.g., USB dongles), personal data assistants (PDAs), or tablet computers equipped with wireless communication capabilities, VoIP phones, portable computers, desktop computers, image capture terminal devices (such as digital cameras), gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEEs), laptop devices (LMEs), smart devices, wireless customer premises equipment (CPEs), or any combination thereof. Mobile communication devices can provide, for example, data communication, which carries communications such as voice, email, text messages, multimedia, etc. Therefore, a variety of services can be provided to the user via the user's communication device. Non-limiting examples of these services include: two-way or multiplexed calling, data communications, or multimedia services, or simply access to data communications network systems such as the Internet. Broadcast or multicast data may also be provided to users. Non-limiting examples of content include downloads, television and radio programs, videos, advertisements, various alarms, and other information.

[0081] Mobile devices typically include at least one data processing entity 201, at least one memory 202, and other possible components 203 for performing tasks designed to be performed in a software and hardware-assisted manner, including controlling access to and communication with access systems and other communication devices. The data processing, storage, and other related components may be housed on appropriate circuit boards and / or chipsets. This feature is indicated by reference numeral 204. Users can control the operation of the mobile device using a suitable user interface (e.g., keypad 205, voice commands, touchscreen or keypad, combinations thereof). A display 208, speaker, and microphone may also be provided. Furthermore, mobile communication devices may include appropriate connectors (wired or wireless) for connecting to other devices and / or for connecting external accessories (e.g., hands-free devices).

[0082] Mobile device 200 can receive signals via an air interface or radio interface 207 through suitable receiving means, and can transmit signals via suitable means for transmitting radio signals. Figure 2 In the diagram, the transceiver device is schematically indicated by box 206. The transceiver device 206 can be provided, for example, by means of radio components and an associated antenna arrangement. The antenna arrangement can be located inside or outside the mobile device.

[0083] Figure 3 An example of a control device 300 for a communication system is shown, which is coupled to, for example, a station for controlling access to the system, such as a RAN node (e.g., a base station, eNB, or gNB), a relay node or core network node (such as an MME, or a Serving Gateway (S-GW), or a Packet Data Network Gateway (P-GW)), or a core network function (such as an AMF / SMF), or a server, or a host. The method can be implemented in a single control device or across more than one control device. The control device can be integrated with a node or module of the core network or RAN, or external to a node or module of the core network or RAN. In some embodiments, a base station includes a separate control device unit or module. In other embodiments, the control device can be another network element, such as a radio network controller or a spectrum controller. In some embodiments, each base station can have such a control device as well as control devices provided in the radio network controller. The control device 300 can be arranged to provide control over communications within the service area of ​​the system. The control device 300 includes at least one memory 301, at least one data processing unit 302, 303, and an input / output interface 304. The control device can be coupled to the base station's receiver and transmitter via an interface. The receiver and / or transmitter can be implemented as a radio front-end or a remote radio head.

[0084] 3GPP solutions for large-scale IoT (e.g., NB-IoT, LTE-M, and RedCap (NR-Light)) are based on connectivity principles. For solutions outside of 3GPP, such as LoRa, connectivity-free operation is feasible.

[0085] Connectionless operation provides a power-saving method for devices because the UE can be in deep sleep and conserve power unless it transmits UL data or receives DL data during a specific receive window. The time from UE wake-up to transmission is short, and the UE can enter deep sleep once the transmit and receive windows are complete.

[0086] LoRa is an example of a non-3GPP, low-power, long-range radio technology used to transmit small amounts of data in a connectionless operating mode (CoLessOM). A LoRa device (Type A) wakes up and transmits. It then remains online for, for example, 1-2 seconds and can receive a response during a predetermined response window (also known as a receive window). Outside of the response window, the LoRa device is unreachable. LoRa can be an attractive technology for extremely low-power IoT end devices. However, LoRa's connectionless operation may not provide sufficient network control, making it less suitable for operator cellular networks and licensed spectrum operations.

[0087] Figure 4 An example of operation using a LoRa Type A UE is shown, which wakes up (multiple) receive windows within a fixed period after the over-the-air transmission time and utilizes them for transmission. In other cases, the device is unreachable. Figure 4 In the example shown, there are two receive windows, labeled Rx1 delay and Rx2 delay.

[0088] Figure 5 An example signaling diagram for connectionless operation is shown.

[0089] Tying connectionless operation to a connection-based 3GPP large-scale IoT environment can provide lower power consumption (at levels similar to or even lower than LoRa); however, the reliability of connectivity and network control for connectionless operation (e.g., in idle mode) should be ensured.

[0090] It also considers how to evolve NB-IoT into 6G and make future low-power wide-area massive IoT more power-efficient than today's products.

[0091] Figure 6 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown. This method can be executed at the UE.

[0092] In 601, the method includes: providing a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period other than a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window.

[0093] In 602, the method includes: in response to the request, receiving from the network node an instruction to the network node to allow the user device to operate in a non-connectivity mode.

[0094] In 603, the method includes sending multiple packets from a user equipment to a network node in a connectionless mode.

[0095] In 604, the method includes: sending an activity report in connection mode, the activity report including information relating to multiple packets.

[0096] Figure 7 A flowchart of a method according to an example embodiment is shown. The method can be performed at a network node (e.g., a base station of the network, such as a gNB).

[0097] In 701, the method includes: receiving at a network node a request from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window.

[0098] In 702, the method includes: in response to the request, sending an instruction from a network node to a user equipment allowing the network to allow the user equipment to operate in a connectionless mode.

[0099] In 703, the method includes: receiving at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at a network node when the user equipment is in a connectionless mode.

[0100] In 704, the method includes: when the user equipment is in connected mode, receiving an activity report from the user equipment at a network node, the activity report including information relating to multiple packets.

[0101] Connectionless mode operation (or "connectionless mode" or "connectionless operation") is a type of idle mode operation. Sending multiple packets from a user equipment (UE) to a network node while the UE is in connectionless mode can be referred to as idle mode connectionless transmission.

[0102] This method can integrate connectionless operations (e.g., idle-mode connectionless transmissions) into a framework in which connection-oriented operations are feasible.

[0103] This method can provide information on how and when to enable connectionless operation for the UE in a network-controlled manner, which is useful for cellular networks. For example, this method can integrate idle-mode connectionless data transmission in a network-controlled manner in systems where connection-oriented operation is already feasible, while providing UE power savings.

[0104] In the example embodiment, the UE will gain access to the network (the current connection is established).

[0105] Requests for operations in non-connection mode can be sent in an RRC connection request or in a specific request message.

[0106] The method may include receiving from a network node an indication that the network node permits operation in a connectionless mode if a first condition has been met. The first condition may include at least one of the following: a downlink signal strength threshold, a downlink signal quality threshold, a physical random access channel power level threshold, a time period since connection establishment, a packet size threshold, a data service type, an application type, or the number of packets sent since connection establishment. This indication may be provided to the UE from the network node in system information, in a dedicated message, or in an indication to the network node allowing the user device to operate in a connectionless mode.

[0107] For example, the first condition may include criteria that can be used to control when the UE is allowed to operate in non-connectivity mode (which may be above the idle mode cell reselection criteria). Criteria may include, but are not limited to: DL signal strength or quality, required PRACH power level, timer since the last connection was established, packet size below a threshold, or the number of packets sent since the last connection was established.

[0108] In example embodiments, network nodes signal (e.g., in system information or dedicated messages) what types of traffic or data volumes are allowed for connectionless operation. Alternatively or additionally, DL signal strength and quality thresholds may be specified in a fixed manner or signaled by the network nodes.

[0109] If the first condition is not met, the UE can proceed to the normal connection establishment process.

[0110] Requests that operate in non-connection mode may include at least one of the following: buffer status information or service type information.

[0111] In an example embodiment, the UE determines whether its application and / or expected service type is suitable for connectionless operation.

[0112] Alternatively or additionally, the UE may provide the network with buffer status, information related to the type of application / service being used, and other service type information, so that the network can determine whether the connectionless mode can be allowed by the network.

[0113] In another embodiment, the network node will identify the type of service being used and determine whether connectionless operation is appropriate, and will configure this for the UE. This identification of service suitability can be based on a simple IP address identifier, or on deep packet inspection of the data stream, or other service parameters, or simply on network operator configuration for a specific service.

[0114] The UE requests and obtains authorization for connectionless operation from the network (which supports connectionless operation) (e.g., based on an indication of this capability). An example of this is: the user equipment provides a request to the network node for operation in connectionless mode; and in response to the request, the UE receives an indication from the network node allowing the user equipment to operate in connectionless mode.

[0115] After authorization for operation in connectionless mode, the UE begins operation in connectionless mode, and during time T1, the UE can transmit up to N packets in connectionless mode (either directly after the RACH preamble or after authorization received in the Random Access Response (RAR)). Here is an example of sending multiple packets from the UE to the network node in connectionless mode. The UE can enter idle mode. The UE can enter idle mode in response to receiving an RRC connection release, which can include the above response to allow connectionless operation.

[0116] The UE can transition from a non-connected mode to a connected mode after a given time period T1, or after sending N packets in a non-connected mode, where N is an integer. In an example embodiment, the UE can connect to a network node when the time or number of packets since the last connection establishment exceeds a threshold. For example, when timer T1 expires (or after N packets), the UE transitions to RRC_Connected mode and provides information related to the packets sent while in the non-connected mode. Here is an example of sending an activity report in connected mode that includes information related to those packets.

[0117] This information may include at least one of the following: the number of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode.

[0118] One approach may include: determining, based on the information, that at least one of a plurality of packets has not yet been received at a network node; and providing a request from the network node to the user equipment for retransmission of the at least one of the plurality of packets.

[0119] For example, the network can request lost packets (if the network determines that not all packets have been received). In an example embodiment, the network checks whether all transmissions indicated in the activity report have been received. If not, the network can request the UE to retransmit the lost packets. One approach may include, in a connection mode, retransmitting at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment to the network.

[0120] In the example embodiment, the UE transmits the lost packets. The UE can then refresh the buffer.

[0121] One approach may include: receiving a Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection Release message from a network node at the user equipment (UE) in response to an activity report, and operating the UE in an idle mode based on the received message. For example, in response to sending a Connectionless Activity report, the UE receives an RRC Connection Release and enters an idle mode.

[0122] The proposed method can reduce device power consumption of the connectionless method by allowing feedback on transmitted packets and allowing control over when connectionless access is allowed, while providing communication reliability to avoid negative system performance impacts (e.g., avoiding connectionless operation at cell edges with thresholds for signal quality or strength).

[0123] This method allows the operating mode to be adjusted according to changes in application requirements or business type, moving away from connectionless operation as data volume increases (and later returning to connectionless mode).

[0124] Figure 8 A signaling diagram for an example procedure is shown between the UE and gNB according to an example embodiment.

[0125] In step 1, a UE connection is established between the UE and the gNB.

[0126] In step 2, operation in non-connectivity mode is activated, and the UE switches to operation in non-connectivity mode. Here is an example: In response to the request, an instruction is received from the network node allowing the user device to operate in non-connectivity mode.

[0127] In steps 3 and 4, the UE sends connectionless packets 1 to N. Here is an example of sending multiple packets from the user equipment to the network node in connectionless mode.

[0128] In step 5, a UE connection is established between the UE and the gNB. This is an example of transitioning from a non-connectivity mode to a connected mode after a given time period, or after transmitting N packets in a non-connectivity mode, where N is an integer.

[0129] In step 6, the UE provides a connectionless activity report indicating that N packets have been sent. Here is an example: an activity report is sent in connected mode, including information related to the multiple packets.

[0130] In step 7, the gNB sends a retransmission request for the lost packet. Here is an example: In response to an activity report, a request is received to retransmit at least one of several packets that would be available in connectionless mode from the user equipment to the network.

[0131] Figure 9 A flowchart illustrating UE behavior in UL data is shown. In this example embodiment, when the UE is connected to the network, the UE requests connectionless operation (operating in a non-connection mode). Alternatively, it can also be determined based on the network service / subscription type, while also considering that the UE supports connectionless operation. That is, the request can be an indication that the UE supports connectionless operation.

[0132] In this example embodiment, the UE checks whether the network supports connectionless mode and whether the expected data volume and / or service type (from the application) are suitable for connectionless mode, and if so, requests connectionless mode activation. The UE receives connectionless operation authorization and parameters (e.g., allowed data volume and duration). The UE enters idle mode, and if the UE has data to send and the connection quality exceeds a threshold (e.g., a first condition is met), connectionless transmission is performed until a timer or a counter since the previous connection was established expires.

[0133] The UE reports the number of connectionless transmissions since the last connection was established. This allows network nodes to assess the reliability of connectionless operations (and determine if this type of operation has been reconfigured), and to perform retransmissions as necessary.

[0134] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating UE behavior during DL data transmission is shown. The process is as follows (refer to...). Figure 9 As described, in addition to the fact that if downlink data wait exists, the UE can detect the existence of data wait, for example, from the paging message.

[0135] Figure 11 A flowchart illustrating the behavior of a base station is shown.

[0136] The UE connects to the base station and reports a connectionless counter and buffer status (e.g., receives an activity report from the UE). The BS checks if all transmissions have been received and requests retransmissions if necessary. In this example embodiment, the network node can parameterize connectivity so that UE operation at the cell edge avoids connectionless operation unless the network explicitly expects it to (this is an example of the following: the network node provides the UE with an indication that the network node allows operation in connectionless mode if a first condition has been met). This can hinder mobility during connectionless operation unless neighboring base stations have the necessary information to process received connectionless packets.

[0137] An apparatus may include: components for sending a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; components for receiving from the network node, in response to the request, an instruction from the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; components for sending multiple packets from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode; and components for sending an activity report in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the multiple packets.

[0138] The device may include user equipment (such as a mobile phone), may be user equipment, or may be included in user equipment or a chipset for performing at least some actions of user equipment / at least some actions of user equipment.

[0139] An apparatus may include: means for receiving, at a network node, a request from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein in the connectionless mode, the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; means for sending, in response to the request, an instruction from the network node to the user equipment to the network node allowing the user equipment to operate in the connectionless mode; means for receiving, at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node while the user equipment is in the connectionless mode; and means for receiving, at the network node, an activity report from the user equipment when the user equipment is in a connected mode, the activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets.

[0140] The device may include a network node (such as a gNB), is a network node, or is included in a network node or a chipset for performing at least some actions of the network node / at least some actions of the network node.

[0141] It should be understood that the device may include or be coupled to other units or modules, such as radio sections or radio heads used in transmitting and / or receiving. Although the device has been described as a single entity, different modules and memories may be implemented in one or more physical or logical entities.

[0142] Note that while some embodiments have been described with respect to 5G networks, similar principles can be applied to other networks and communication systems, such as 6G networks or 5G Advanced networks. Therefore, although some embodiments have been described above by way of example with respect to certain example architectures for wireless networks, technologies, and standards, these embodiments can be applied to any other suitable form of communication system besides those shown and described herein.

[0143] It should also be noted that although exemplary embodiments have been described above, several changes and modifications can be made to the disclosed solutions without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0144] As used herein, “at least one of the following: a list of two or more elements” and “at least one of the following: a list of two or more elements” and similar wording (where the list of two or more elements is connected by “and” or “or”) means at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements.

[0145] Generally, various embodiments can be implemented in hardware or special-purpose circuitry systems, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects of this disclosure can be implemented in hardware, while others can be implemented in firmware or software that can be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. Although various aspects of this disclosure may be shown and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other graphical representation, it should be understood that, by way of non-limiting example, these blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, special-purpose circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers, other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0146] As used in this application, the term "circuit system" may refer to one or more 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 (multiple) digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and (ii) Any part of a device (such as a mobile phone or server) that has software (including multiple digital signal processors), software, and multiple memories working together to enable the device to perform various functions, and (c) Multiple hardware circuits and / or multiple processors, such as multiple microprocessors or a portion thereof, that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate (but such software may not exist when it is not required to operate).

[0147] This definition of circuit system applies to all uses of the term in this application, including in any claim. As another example, as used herein, the term circuit system also covers implementations of only hardware circuitry or processors (or processors in general) or portions thereof and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For instance, if applicable to a particular claim element, the term circuit system also covers baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0148] Embodiments of this disclosure may be implemented by computer software executable by a data processor of a mobile device (e.g., in a processor entity), by hardware, or by a combination of software and hardware. Computer software or programs (also referred to as program products, including software routines, applets, and / or macros) may be stored in any device-readable data storage medium, and they include program instructions for performing specific tasks. A computer program product may include one or more computer-executable components that, when the program is run, are configured to execute the embodiments. The one or more computer-executable components may be at least one piece of software code or a portion thereof.

[0149] Furthermore, it should be noted in this regard that any block in the logical flow shown in the accompanying drawings may represent a program step, or an interconnected logic circuit, block, and function, or a combination of program steps and logic circuits, blocks, and functions. Software may be stored on physical media (such as memory chips or blocks of memory implemented within a processor), magnetic media (such as hard disks or floppy disks), and optical media (such as DVDs and their data variants, CDs). Physical media are non-transitory media. As used herein, the term "non-transitory" is a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not tactile), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM versus ROM).

[0150] The memory can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. As a non-limiting example, the data processor can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can include one or more of the following: general-purpose computers, special-purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), FPGAs, gate-level circuits, and processors based on multi-core processor architectures.

[0151] Embodiments of this disclosure can be practiced in various components, such as integrated circuit modules. The design of integrated circuits relies on highly automated processes. Complex and powerful software tools can be used to transform logic-level designs into semiconductor circuit designs ready for etching and formation on semiconductor substrates.

[0152] The scope of protection sought by the various embodiments of this disclosure is set forth in the independent claims. Embodiments and features described in this specification that do not fall within the scope of the independent claims, if any, are to be interpreted as examples useful for understanding the various embodiments of this disclosure.

[0153] The foregoing description has provided a complete and detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure by way of non-limiting example. However, various modifications and adjustments may become apparent to those skilled in the art when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims, given the foregoing description. Nevertheless, all such and similar modifications to the teachings of this disclosure will still fall within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. In fact, there are other embodiments that include combinations of one or more embodiments with any other embodiments discussed above.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: Components for sending a request from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; A component for receiving from the network node an indication to the network node allowing the user equipment to operate in the non-connectivity mode in response to the request; Components for sending multiple packets from the user equipment to the network node in the non-connectivity mode; as well as A component for sending activity reports in connection mode, the activity reports including information relating to the plurality of packets.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the information includes at least one of the following: the number of the plurality of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode, or an identifier associated with each of the plurality of packets sent from the user equipment to the network node in the connectionless mode.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the request includes at least one of the following: buffer status information or data service type information.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: Components for sending the request in a radio resource control connection request.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising: A component for receiving from the network node an indication that the network node is permitted to operate in the non-connectivity mode if a first condition has been met.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first condition includes at least one of the following: a downlink signal strength threshold, a downlink signal quality threshold, a physical random access channel power level threshold, a time period since connection establishment, a packet size threshold, a data service type, an application type, or the number of packets sent since connection establishment.

7. The apparatus according to claim 5 or claim 6, comprising: A component for receiving the instruction in system information or radio resource control signaling.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, comprising: A component for responding to the activity report to receive a request for retransmission of at least one of the plurality of packets provided in the connectionless mode from the user equipment to the network node; as well as A component for retransmitting at least one of the plurality of packets from the user equipment to the network node in the connection mode.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: A component for transitioning from the non-connection mode to the connection mode after transmitting N packets in the non-connection mode for a given time period, where N is an integer.

10. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: A component for sending the activity report when the user equipment enters the connection mode.

11. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising: Components for receiving a radio resource control connection release message from the network node in response to the activity report; as well as Components for operating the user equipment in idle mode based on the received messages.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising: A component for determining, based on application requirements or service type, to send the request for operation in the non-connected mode.

13. An apparatus comprising: Components for receiving requests from a user equipment at a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; A component for sending an instruction from the network node to the user equipment in response to the request, indicating that the network node permits the user equipment to operate in the non-connectivity mode; A component for receiving at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node when the user equipment is in the non-connection mode; as well as A component for receiving, at the network node, an activity report including information relating to the plurality of packets from the user equipment when the user equipment is in connected mode.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the information includes at least one of the following: the number of the plurality of packets received from the user equipment at the network node when the user equipment is in the disconnected mode, or an identifier associated with each of the plurality of packets received from the user equipment at the network node when the user equipment is in the disconnected mode.

15. The apparatus of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the request includes at least one of the following: buffer status information or service type information.

16. The apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 15, comprising: A component for determining, based on the information, that at least one of the plurality of packets has not yet been received at the network node; A component for providing a request from the network node to the user equipment for retransmission of at least one of the plurality of packets; as well as A component for receiving at least one of the plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node when the user equipment is in the connection mode.

17. A method comprising: A request is sent from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; In response to the request, receive from the network an indication to the network node that the user equipment is permitted to operate in the non-connectivity mode; In the non-connectivity mode, multiple packets are sent from the user equipment to the network node; as well as In connection mode, an activity report is sent, which includes information related to the plurality of packets.

18. A method comprising: At a network node, a request is received from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; In response to the request, an instruction is sent from the network node to the user equipment, instructing the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the non-connectivity mode; When the user equipment is in the non-connection mode, it receives at least one of a plurality of packets from the user equipment at the network node; as well as When the user equipment is in connected mode, the network node receives an activity report from the user equipment, which includes information related to the plurality of packets.

19. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor and at least one memory, wherein when executed by the at least one processor, the device at least: A request is sent from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; In response to the request, receive from the network an indication to the network node that the user equipment is permitted to operate in the non-connectivity mode; In the non-connectivity mode, multiple packets are sent from the user equipment to the network node; as well as In connection mode, an activity report is sent, which includes information related to the plurality of packets.

20. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor and at least one memory, wherein when executed by the at least one processor, the device at least: At a network node, a request is received from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; In response to the request, an instruction is sent from the network node to the user equipment, instructing the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the non-connectivity mode; When the user equipment is in the non-connection mode, at the network node, at least one of a plurality of packets is received from the user equipment; as well as When the user equipment is in connected mode, an activity report is received from the user equipment at the network node, the activity report including information related to the plurality of packets.

21. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a means, cause the means to perform at least the following: A request is sent from a user equipment to a network node for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and at least one defined receiving window, and wherein packets are sent using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; In response to the request, receive from the network an indication to the network node that the user equipment is permitted to operate in the non-connectivity mode; In the non-connectivity mode, multiple packets are sent from the user equipment to the network node; as well as In the connection mode, an activity report is sent, which includes information related to the plurality of packets.

22. A computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a means, cause the means to perform at least the following: At a network node, a request is received from a user equipment for operation in a connectionless mode, wherein the user equipment is in a sleep period except for a defined sending window and one or more defined receiving windows, and wherein packets are sent by the user equipment using unacknowledged transmission during the defined sending window; In response to the request, an instruction is sent from the network node to the user equipment, instructing the network node to allow the user equipment to operate in the non-connectivity mode; When the user equipment is in the non-connection mode, at the network node, at least one of a plurality of packets is received from the user equipment; as well as When the user equipment is in connected mode, an activity report is received from the user equipment at the network node, the activity report including information related to the plurality of packets.

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