Apparatus, method and computer program for data burst end

Abstract

An apparatus comprises means for evaluating respective sizes of one or more buffers associated with data transmissions from at least one logical channel group (LCG); starting a first timer based at least in part on the determination that the respective size of the one or more buffers is zero; determining whether the first timer has expired; and causing transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180 based at least in part on the determination that the first timer has expired, the buffer status report (BSR) 180 indicating that a respective size of the one or more buffers is zero.

Description

Apparatus, methods and computer programs for terminating data bursts Technical Field

[0001] Examples of this disclosure relate to apparatus, methods, and computer programs for the termination of a data burst. Some examples relate to apparatus, methods, and computer programs for determining and transmitting the termination of a data burst. Background Technology

[0002] A wireless network consists of multiple network nodes, including terminal nodes and access nodes. Communication between terminal nodes and access nodes is wireless.

[0003] Data can be wirelessly transmitted between the terminal node and the access node as Packet Data Units (PDUs). A series of PDUs can form a data burst. After the data burst is transmitted (i.e., at the end of the data burst (EoDB)), the terminal node and / or access node can enter sleep mode. Therefore, it may be desirable to transmit EoDBs between the terminal node and the access node.

[0004] In some cases, it may be necessary to improve or enhance data burst termination communication. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, an apparatus is provided comprising components for: evaluating the corresponding size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG); starting a first timer based at least in part on a determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero; determining whether the first timer has expired; and causing the transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) based at least in part on the determination that the first timer has expired. The BSR indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0006] In some, but not all, examples, the component is configured to: determine whether a condition is met; and stop the first timer based at least in part on the determination that the condition is met.

[0007] In some, but not all, examples, the component is configured to reset the timer at least in part based on the determination that a condition is met.

[0008] In some, but not all, examples, determining whether a condition is met includes determining whether the size of at least one of the buffers is not zero after the first timer has been started.

[0009] In some, but not necessarily all, examples, the component is configured to start the first timer after it has been stopped: at least in part based on the determination that the condition is not met.

[0010] In some, but not all, examples, the component is configured to receive at least one configuration parameter associated with at least one LCG, wherein the component is configured to configure a first timer based on the received at least one configuration parameter.

[0011] In some, but not all, examples, at least one configuration parameter received includes at least one of the following: the desired duration of the first timer; the threshold buffer size; and a reset indicator.

[0012] In some, but not all, examples, the component is configured to cause the transmission of a buffer status report to the access node, which indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0013] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, a user equipment (UE) is provided that includes the means described above.

[0014] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, a method is provided that includes: evaluating the corresponding size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG); starting a first timer based at least in part on a determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero; determining whether the first timer has expired; and causing the transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) based at least in part on the determination that the timer has expired, the BSR indicating that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0015] In some, but not necessarily all, examples, the method includes stopping the first timer after it has been started, at least in part based on the determination that the size of at least one of the one or more buffers is not zero.

[0016] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, a computer program is provided that includes instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least the following:

[0017] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0018] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0019] Determine that the first timer has expired and the corresponding size of one or more buffers has not changed from zero; and

[0020] The transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) is triggered at least in part based on the determination that a first timer has expired and the corresponding size of one or more buffers has not changed from zero. The BSR indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0021] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, an apparatus is provided comprising components for: determining at least one configuration parameter for at least one logical channel group (LCG); sending at least one configuration parameter to the apparatus, the apparatus including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; receiving a buffer status report (BSR) from the apparatus, the apparatus including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and determining, at least in part, based on at least one of the at least one configuration parameter, that the BSR indicates the end of a data burst (EoDB).

[0022] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, a method is provided, the method comprising: determining at least one configuration parameter for at least one logical channel group (LCG); sending at least one configuration parameter to a device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; receiving a buffer status report (BSR) from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and determining, at least in part, based on at least one of the at least one configuration parameter, that the BSR indicates the end of a data burst (EoDB).

[0023] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples, a computer program is provided that includes instructions, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least: determine at least one configuration parameter for at least one logical channel group (LCG); send at least one configuration parameter to the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; receive a buffer status report (BSR) from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and determine, at least in part, based on at least one of the at least one configuration parameter, that the BSR indicates the end of a data burst (EoDB).

[0024] Examples are provided, based on various, but not necessarily all, examples as claimed in the appended claims.

[0025] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided that includes...

[0026] At least one processor; and

[0027] At least one memory, including computer program code;

[0028] The at least one memory stores instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform at least a portion of one or more methods described herein.

[0029] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments, an apparatus is provided that includes components for performing at least a portion of one or more methods described herein.

[0030] Any description of a function and / or action should also be considered as disclosing any component suitable for performing that function and / or action.

[0031] The functions and / or actions described herein can be performed using any suitable method or in any suitable manner.

[0032] Although the foregoing examples and optional features of this disclosure are described separately, it should be understood that all possible combinations and permutations thereof are included in this disclosure. It should be understood that the various examples of this disclosure may include any or all of the features described with respect to other examples of this disclosure, and vice versa. Furthermore, it should be understood that, as needed and as appropriate, in any combination, any one or more of these features may be implemented by / included in / executable by a means, method, and / or computer program instructions. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] Figure 1 illustrates a network diagram that shows an example of the topics discussed in this article;

[0035] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate example signaling diagrams for the topics discussed herein.

[0036] Figure 3 illustrates a method flowchart that shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0037] Figure 4 illustrates another method flowchart that shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0038] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate another example signaling diagram of the subject matter described herein;

[0039] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate another methodological flowchart demonstrating the subject matter described herein; and

[0040] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a memory, computer program, and processor that represent the subject matter described herein.

[0041] 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. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The following description and accompanying drawings relate to various examples of an apparatus that includes components for the following:

[0043] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0044] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0045] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0046] The transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180 is triggered at least in part based on the determination that a first timer has expired. The buffer status report (BSR) 180 indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0047] The specification and accompanying drawings also relate to various examples of a device that includes components for the following:

[0048] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0049] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0050] Receives a buffer status report (BSR) 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0051] The BSR 180 indicates the end of the data burst (EoDB) based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0052] Figure 1 illustrates an example of a network 100, which includes multiple network nodes, including terminal nodes 110, access nodes 120, and one or more core nodes 129. Terminal nodes 110 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other. One or more core nodes 129 communicate with access nodes 120.

[0053] In this example, network 100 is a wireless telecommunications network in which at least some of the terminal nodes 110 and access nodes 120 communicate with each other using the transmission / reception of radio waves / signals.

[0054] In some examples, one or more core nodes 129 can communicate with each other. In some examples, one or more access nodes 120 can communicate with each other.

[0055] Network 100 may be a cellular network comprising multiple cells 122, each served by an access node 120. In this example, the interface between terminal node 110 and access node 120 defining cell 122 is wireless interface 124.

[0056] Access node 120 is a cellular radio transceiver. Terminal node 110 is a cellular radio transceiver.

[0057] In the example shown, cellular network 100 is a 3GPP network, where terminal node 110 is user equipment (UE) 142, see Figure 2 for example, and access node 120 is a base station.

[0058] In the example, network 100 is an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN). The E-UTRAN consists of E-UTRAN NodeBs (eNBs) to provide E-UTRA user plane and control plane (RRC) protocol termination to UE 142. The eNBs interconnect with each other via X2 interface 126. The eNBs are also connected to Mobility Management Entity (MME) 129 via S1 interface 128.

[0059] In other examples, network 100 is a next-generation (or new radio NR) radio access network (NG-RAN). NG-RAN consists of gNodeBs (gNBs) 120 to provide user plane and control plane (RRC) protocol termination to UE 142. gNBs interconnect with each other via Xn interface 126. gNBs are also connected to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) via N2 interface 128.

[0060] In the example, network 100 may include a combination of E-UTRAN and NG-RAN.

[0061] User equipment 142 (UE) may include mobile devices. When referring to a user equipment, the reference includes and covers references to mobile devices whenever possible.

[0062] Terminal node 110 (e.g., UE 142) can perform measurements to assess the operational radio environment of terminal node 110. For example, terminal node 110 can perform measurements for mobility, such as those involved in handover.

[0063] Figure 2A illustrates an example of method 200.

[0064] In this example, Figure 2A can be interpreted as illustrating multiple methods. For instance, Figure 2A illustrates one or more actions at multiple actuators / entities, and in this example, Figure 2A can be interpreted as illustrating multiple methods performed by an individual actuator / entity.

[0065] One or more features discussed in Figure 2A can be found in one or more other figures.

[0066] In the example of Figure 2A, multiple devices send and / or receive one or more signals and / or one or more messages via and / or using a network. In this example, any suitable form of communication can be used from any suitable network. For example, at least a portion of the network 100 of Figure 1 can be used.

[0067] Therefore, in the example, the plurality of devices in FIG2 form at least a portion of the network 100 as described with respect to FIG1.

[0068] In the example shown, terminal node 110 and access node 120 send and / or receive one or more signals and / or one or more messages. The network node may include gNodeB 159 (gNB), and terminal node 110 may include UE 142.

[0069] In the example, communication and / or transmission between the elements shown in Figure 2A can be carried out via any number of intermediate elements, including without intermediate elements.

[0070] Although a terminal node 110 is illustrated in the example of Figure 2A, any suitable number of terminal nodes 110 (e.g., UE 142) may be included in the example. Similarly, any suitable number of access nodes 120 may be included in the example.

[0071] As described herein, descriptions of functions and / or actions should also be considered as disclosing enabling, causing, and / or controlling the function and / or action. For example, descriptions of information transmission should also be considered as disclosing enabling, and / or causing, and / or controlling the transmission / transmission of information.

[0072] For example, a description of a means of transmitting information, such as UE 142, should also be considered as disclosing at least one controller of the means that enables and / or causes and / or controls the means of transmitting information.

[0073] The paragraphs above concerning Figure 2A also apply to Figures 2B, 5A, and 5B.

[0074] In the example shown, the location of the boxes indicates the entities that perform (multiple) functions and / or (multiple) actions. For example, box 202 is performed by terminal node 110 (such as UE 142).

[0075] For further discussion of Figure 2A, terminal node 110 will be considered as UE 142.

[0076] In the example, method 200 includes receiving at least one configuration parameter 160 associated with at least one LCG. See, for example, box 201.

[0077] In the example, at least one configuration parameter 160 is a radio resource control parameter.

[0078] In the example, at least one configuration parameter 160 includes an indication of the timer's value. The timer's value is its initial value before it has been started.

[0079] In the example, at least one configuration parameter 160 includes an indication of the threshold size. If the size of one or more buffers is less than the threshold size, the size of that buffer is considered zero.

[0080] In the example, at least one configuration parameter 160 includes an indication of whether the timer should be stopped or reset and stopped when a condition is met.

[0081] In the example, the UE includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG). An LCG includes one or more logical channels (LCHs) whose buffer status is evaluated and reported. An LCH is defined by the data type it transmits.

[0082] One or more buffers of the UE are configured to hold uplink data waiting to be sent.

[0083] In the example, method 200 includes receiving one or more Packet Data Units (PDUs) of a data burst (not shown in Figure 2A). The one or more PDUs are generated by an application. In the example, this application is an Extended Reality (XR) application running on UE 142. The data burst is sent to at least one of one or more buffers for transmission by UE 142 to network nodes such as gNB159.

[0084] In some examples where the application is an XR application, the data burst includes XR data.

[0085] In the example, a data burst includes data associated with a single frame of XR content. A data burst can include video content, virtual content, audio content, or any other type of content from the XR content frame. Video content includes visual content generated by one or more cameras. Virtual content includes visual content generated by one or more computers to enhance the video content. Audio content includes audio content generated by one or more microphones and / or one or more computers.

[0086] At block 202, method 200 includes evaluating the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG).

[0087] In other words, the method includes evaluating the size of each buffer associated with at least one LCG.

[0088] The size of a buffer is determined based on the size of the data currently stored in the buffer. Therefore, the size of a buffer is defined by the size of its current contents.

[0089] In the example, the method includes evaluating the appropriate size of the buffer in response to a trigger.

[0090] At box 204, method 200 includes starting a first timer based at least in part on the determination that the respective size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0091] In some examples, method 200 includes configuring a first timer based on at least one received configuration parameter 160 (not shown in Figure 2A).

[0092] The size of one or more buffers is zero when one or more buffers are empty or contain data smaller than a threshold size. In other words, the size of one or more buffers is zero when one or more buffers are empty.

[0093] In the example, determining that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero includes determining that the size of all one or more buffers is zero.

[0094] In the example, method 200 moves from box 204 to box 206 without any intermediate boxes.

[0095] In other examples, method 200 includes at least one other box between boxes 204 and 206.

[0096] Figure 2B illustrates method 200, wherein at least one other box, such as at least one of boxes 2050, 2052 and 2054, is provided between box 204 and box 206.

[0097] At box 2050, method 200 includes determining whether a condition is met.

[0098] In the example, the condition is that the size of at least one of the buffers is not zero after the timer has been started. Therefore, determining whether the condition is met includes determining whether the size of at least one of the buffers is not zero after the timer has been started.

[0099] In some such examples, determining whether the size of at least one of the buffers is not zero after the timer has been started includes determining whether the PDU has been received by at least one of the buffers.

[0100] In other examples, the condition is that the second timer has expired. The second timer can be a background timer run by UE 142.

[0101] In the example, the second timer is a timer used for periodic BSRs. UE 142 is configured to send a periodic BSR when the timer has expired. Therefore, determining whether the condition is met includes determining that the second timer has expired.

[0102] In another example, the condition is that UE 142 sends a BSR. UE 142 can be configured to send periodic BSRs or high-priority BSRs. Therefore, determining whether the condition is met includes determining that UE 142 has sent a BSR.

[0103] In some examples of evaluating the size of multiple buffers, the conditions are that the size of one of the multiple buffers is not zero, or the size of more than one of the multiple buffers is not zero, or the size of all buffers is zero.

[0104] At box 2052, method 200 includes stopping the first timer based at least in part on the determination that a condition is met.

[0105] In the example, stopping the timer involves freezing the timer at its current value.

[0106] In the example, method 200 includes resetting the timer based at least in part on the determination that a condition is met. In the example, resetting the timer includes returning the timer's value to its initial value and / or a value indicated by at least one configuration parameter 160.

[0107] In an example where the size of at least one of the buffers is not zero after the timer has been started, method 200 includes stopping and optionally resetting the timer based at least in part on determining that the respective size of the one or more buffers is not zero. In this example, the determination is based on the determination that the buffer has received at least one PDU.

[0108] At box 2054, method 200 includes starting a first timer based at least in part on the determination that a condition is not met.

[0109] In the example where the timer is stopped and not reset (i.e., the timer is frozen at its current value), starting the first timer at box 2054 involves starting the timer from the value that the timer has when a certain condition is met.

[0110] In the example of stopping and resetting the timer, starting the first timer at box 2054 includes starting the timer from its initial value.

[0111] In the example, the determination that the condition is not met occurs after the timer has stopped, at least in part, based on the determination that the condition is met. In other words, starting the first timer at box 2054 includes starting the first timer when it is determined that the condition was previously met but is no longer met.

[0112] This determination can be based on the determination that at least one PDU received by the buffer has been removed from the buffer and submitted for transmission.

[0113] Therefore, in the example where the size of at least one of the buffers is not zero after the timer has been started, the timer stops in response to determining that data has been received by the one or more buffers, and starts in response to determining that all received data has been removed from the one or more buffers.

[0114] Returning to Figure 2A, at box 206, method 200 includes determining whether the first timer has expired.

[0115] In the example, determining whether the first timer has expired includes determining whether the first timer has reached zero.

[0116] At block 208, method 200 includes the transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180. The BSR has a zero value and therefore indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero, based at least in part on the determination that a first timer has expired.

[0117] In the example, the transmission that causes a BSR includes the transmission that triggers the BSR.

[0118] In the example, BSR 108 is sent at box 209.

[0119] A BSR 180 indicating that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero indicates the end of the current data burst. A node receiving a BSR 180 may interpret the BSR 180 as an indication of EoDB based at least in part on at least one configuration parameter 160 associated with at least one LCG.

[0120] For example, a node receiving BSR 180 can determine whether the elapsed time since it received the most recent transmission from the access node is equal to the initial value of its timer when it received BSR 180. Based on the determination that the elapsed time since the node received the most recent transmission from the access node is equal to the initial value of its timer when it received BSR 180, the node can determine that BSR 180 was sent when the timer had expired, and therefore it indicates EoDB.

[0121] By sending a BSR 180 indicating EoDB when the timer has expired, method 200 enables the reduction of premature EoDB triggered by small but unpredictable delays between Packet Data Units (PDUs) within a data burst. This ensures timely transmission and reception of all PDUs within the data burst.

[0122] In addition to the one or more actions / features shown in the illustrations, Figures 2A and 2B also illustrate corresponding transmission / enable and / or triggering of transmission(multiple) actions / (multiple) features. For example, from the perspective of access node 120, at block 201, method 200 includes transmitting to UE 142 at least one configuration parameter 160 associated with at least one LCG.

[0123] Therefore, Figure 2A illustrates method 200, which includes:

[0124] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0125] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0126] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0127] The transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180 is triggered at least in part based on the determination that a first timer has expired. The buffer status report (BSR) 180 indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0128] Some boxes of method 200 are executed by access node 120, such as gNB 159.

[0129] In the example, method 200 includes determining at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one LCG. See, for example, box 210.

[0130] In the example, at least one configuration parameter 160 is determined based at least in part on at least one of the following: the size of the previous data burst; the arrival time of the previous data; or jitter analysis.

[0131] From the gNB's perspective, box 201 includes sending at least one configuration parameter 160 to a device that includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG.

[0132] From the gNB's perspective, box 209 includes receiving BSR 180 from a device that includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG.

[0133] In the example, one or more buffers are associated with data transmission using at least one LCG.

[0134] At box 212, method 200 includes determining that BSR 180 indicates EoDB. This determination is based at least in part on at least one of at least one configuration parameter 160 and a zero value for BSR 180.

[0135] In an example where at least one configuration parameter 160 includes the initial value of a timer, zero BSR 180 is determined by EoDB BSR 180 based at least in part on a comparison between the initial value of the first timer and the time elapsed since the last PDU or BSR was received.

[0136] Therefore, Figure 2A illustrates method 200, which includes:

[0137] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0138] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0139] Receives BSR 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0140] The BSR 180 instruction to EoDB is determined based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0141] Figure 3 illustrates an example of method 300.

[0142] Method 300 can be performed by any suitable means including any suitable components for performing method 300, such as the means described with respect to FIG7A and / or FIG7B.

[0143] In the example, method 300 can be executed by terminal node 110 (such as UE 142).

[0144] At box 302, method 300 includes evaluating the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG.

[0145] At box 304, method 300 includes starting a first timer based at least in part on the determination that the respective size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0146] At box 306, method 300 includes determining whether the first timer has expired.

[0147] At block 308, method 300 includes inducing the transmission of BSR 180 based at least in part on a determination that a first timer has expired, which indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0148] Therefore, Figure 3 illustrates method 300, which includes:

[0149] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0150] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0151] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0152] The transmission of BSR 180 is triggered at least in part based on the determination that the first timer has expired, which indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0153] Figure 4 illustrates an example of method 400.

[0154] Method 400 can be performed by any suitable means that includes any suitable components for performing method 400. For example, the means as described with respect to FIG. 7A and / or FIG. 7B.

[0155] In the example, method 400 can be executed by access node 120 (e.g., gNB 159).

[0156] At box 402, method 400 includes determining at least one configuration parameter 160 of at least one LCG.

[0157] At block 404, method 400 includes sending at least one configuration parameter 160 to a device that includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG.

[0158] At block 406, method 400 includes receiving a BSR 180 from a device that includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG.

[0159] At box 408, method 400 includes determining BSR 180 to indicate EoDB based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0160] Therefore, Figure 4 illustrates method 400, which includes:

[0161] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one LCG;

[0162] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0163] Receives BSR 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0164] The BSR 180 instruction to EoDB is determined based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0165] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate the signaling diagrams used in the embodiments. Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an example where the timer stops and resets after a condition is determined to be met.

[0166] Figure 5A illustrates an example of a single data burst being received by UE 142 and transmitted to gNB 159.

[0167] Box 1 includes configuration RRC parameters that control the transmission of BSR 180 indicated by EoDB. These new RRC parameters include the duration of the EoDB timer, a threshold for the size of each MAC buffer that takes into account when the buffer is empty, and a Boolean value that indicates whether the EoDB timer is reset or frozen to its current value when a new PDU enters the MAC buffer before its expiration.

[0168] When a data burst is generated by an XR application on the UE side (e.g., a video frame), the data burst is sent down the protocol stack to the PDCP layer: see, for example, box 2.

[0169] The first data burst (XR DB 1) is sent by the PDCP layer as two different PDCP data bursts to the MAC layer (boxes 3 and 10). This could be due to some buffering in the IP stack, or simply because XR DB 1 consists of two different sets of PDUs generated at slightly different times.

[0170] After the first PDCP data burst containing the first PDU set of XR DB 1 is successfully sent to gNB 159 (boxes 4-7), the MAC buffer used to carry XR services becomes empty, which in turn triggers the countdown of the EoDB timer (box 9).

[0171] Before the EoDB timer has expired (countdown reaches zero), a new PDCP data burst still associated with XR DB 1 is delivered to the MAC of UE 142 (i.e., it enters the MAC buffer in box 10).

[0172] Because the buffer is no longer empty after box 10, the EoDB timer is reset and stopped (box 11).

[0173] To prepare the MAC PDU, UE 142 MAC retrieves the new data from the MAC buffer, which then becomes empty again. This causes the EoDB timer to start counting down again (box 12), and eventually the EoDB timer expires (box 14).

[0174] The EoDB timer has expired, triggering BSR 180 to prepare for an EoDB indication, which is added to the PDU sent in box 15 using resources allocated by gNB 159 in box 13 using DCI commands.

[0175] Figure 5B illustrates an example where the second data burst is received by UE 142 and transmitted to gNB 159. In the example, the box in Figure 5B follows the box in Figure 5A.

[0176] In box 17, the second XR data burst is generated by the application and sent to the PDCP layer.

[0177] In box 18, the data burst is sent to the MAC as a single PDCP data burst by the PDCP layer.

[0178] When the UE MAC retrieves data from the MAC buffer to prepare the MAC PDU, the buffer becomes empty and the EoDB is initiated (box 19). In box 19, gNB 159 sends a DCI command to UE 142, which includes information indicating the granted resources (box 20).

[0179] Shortly after the DCI command is decoded, the EoDB timer expires, and the UE MAC adds a BSR 180 for EoDB indication to the MAC PDU containing the data already extracted from the MAC buffer (Box 21). In Box 22, the data and the BSR 180 for EoDB indication are transmitted in the granted resources.

[0180] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate another example method 600.

[0181] Figure 6A illustrates boxes 602-610 of example method 600.

[0182] At box 602, method 600 includes receiving parameters to control the triggering of the EoDB indication and setting the EoDB timer.

[0183] At box 604, method 600 includes evaluating the buffer size of all logical channel groups (LCGs) or logical channels (LCHs) that are triggered by the EoDB indication.

[0184] At box 606, method 600 includes determining whether the size of all evaluated buffers is equal to zero.

[0185] If the answer to box 606 is yes, then method 600 continues to box 608. At box 608, method 600 includes starting the EoDB timer. After completing at box 608, method 600 continues to both boxes 604 and 612 (Figure 6B).

[0186] If the answer to box 606 is no, method 600 proceeds to box 610. At box 610, method 600 includes stopping and resetting the EoDB timer. After completing at box 610, method 600 proceeds to box 604.

[0187] Figure 6B illustrates boxes 612-616 of method 600.

[0188] At box 612, method 600 includes evaluating the EoDB timer.

[0189] At box 614, method 600 includes determining whether the EoDB timer has expired.

[0190] If the answer to box 614 is yes, then method 600 continues to box 616. At box 616, method 600 includes preparing the EoDB instruction. After completing at box 616, method 600 stops.

[0191] If the answer to box 616 is no, then method 600 continues to box 612.

[0192] The accompanying drawings only illustrate data and control signals relevant to the present invention, and do not illustrate conventional control signals not used in the present invention, including SR, HARQ ACK / NACK and RLC feedback.

[0193] Figure 7A illustrates an example of device 130. Device 130 may be a controller for a device or equipment such as terminal node 110 (e.g., UE 142) or access node 120 (e.g., gNB 159). Device 130 may be considered as a controller.

[0194] In the example, device 130 may be included in an electronic device. Therefore, in the example, an electronic device including device 130 as described herein is provided.

[0195] The controller 130 can be implemented as a controller circuit system. The controller 130 can be implemented solely in hardware, have certain aspects in software that includes only firmware, or be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0196] In some examples, device 130 is UE 142 or is included therein.

[0197] In some examples, device 130 is an access node 120 or is included therein.

[0198] As shown in Figure 7A, the controller 130 can be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functions, for example, by using executable instructions of a computer program 136 in a general-purpose or special-purpose processor 132, which can be stored on a computer-readable storage medium (disk, memory, etc.) for execution by such processor 132.

[0199] Processor 132 is configured to read from and write to memory 134. Processor 132 may also include an output interface and an input interface, through which data and / or commands are output by processor 132 and through which data and / or commands are input to processor 132.

[0200] Memory 134 stores computer program 136, which includes computer program instructions (computer program code) that control the operation of device 130 when loaded into processor 132. The computer program instructions of computer program 136 provide logic and routines that enable the device to perform the methods shown in the figures. Processor 132 is able to load and execute computer program 136 by reading memory 134.

[0201] In the example, device 130 includes:

[0202] At least one processor 132; and

[0203] At least one memory 134 including computer program code,

[0204] At least one memory 134 and computer program code are configured together with at least one processor 132 such that the device 130 performs at least the following:

[0205] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0206] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0207] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0208] The transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180 is triggered at least in part based on the determination that a first timer has expired. The buffer status report (BSR) 180 indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0209] In the example, device 130 includes:

[0210] At least one processor 132; and

[0211] At least one memory 134 including computer program code,

[0212] At least one memory 134 and computer program code are configured together with at least one processor 132 such that the device 130 performs at least the following:

[0213] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one logical channel group (LCG); and

[0214] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0215] Receives a buffer status report (BSR) 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0216] The BSR 180 indicates the end of the data burst (EoDB) based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0217] In the example, device 130 includes:

[0218] At least one processor 132; and

[0219] At least one memory 134 including computer program code,

[0220] The at least one memory storage instruction, when executed by at least one processor 132, causes the device to at least:

[0221] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0222] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0223] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0224] The transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180 is triggered at least in part based on the determination that a first timer has expired. The buffer status report (BSR) 180 indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0225] In the example, device 130 includes:

[0226] At least one processor 132; and

[0227] At least one memory 134 including computer program code,

[0228] The at least one memory storage instruction, when executed by at least one processor 132, causes the device to at least:

[0229] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one logical channel group (LCG); and

[0230] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0231] Receives a buffer status report (BSR) 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0232] The BSR 180 indicates the end of the data burst (EoDB) based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0233] As shown in Figure 7A, computer program 136 can reach device 130 via any suitable delivery mechanism 162. Delivery mechanism 162 can be, for example, a machine-readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a recording medium such as an optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) or digital versatile optical disc (DVD) or solid-state storage, or an article of art that includes or tangibly embodies computer program 136. The delivery mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably transmit computer program 136. Device 130 can propagate or transmit computer program 136 as a computer data signal.

[0234] Computer program instructions are used to cause the device to perform at least the following, or to perform at least the following:

[0235] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0236] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0237] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0238] Computer program instructions are used to cause the device to perform at least the following, or to perform at least the following:

[0239] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one logical channel group (LCG); and

[0240] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0241] Receives a buffer status report (BSR) 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0242] The BSR 180 indicates the end of the data burst (EoDB) based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0243] Computer program instructions can be included in a computer program, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, a computer program product, or a machine-readable medium. In some, but not all, examples, computer program instructions can be distributed across more than one computer program.

[0244] Although memory 134 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.

[0245] In this example, memory 134 includes random access memory 158 and read-only memory 160. In this example, computer program 136 may be stored in read-only memory 158. See, for example, Figure 7B.

[0246] Although processor 132 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 132 may be a single-core or multi-core processor.

[0247] References to '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 processing circuitry systems. 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.

[0248] As used in this application, the term 'circuit system' may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) a hardware circuit implementation only (such as an implementation in an analog and / or digital circuit system only) and (b) a combination of hardware circuits and software, such as (if applicable): (i) a combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits with software / firmware, and (ii) any part of (multiple) hardware processors (including (multiple) digital signal processors), software, and (multiple) memories having software that 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.

[0249] 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 circuits 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.

[0250] The blocks shown in the accompanying drawings may represent steps in the method and / or code segments in computer program 136. The illustration of a specific order of blocks does not necessarily indicate a required or preferred order, and the order and arrangement of blocks can vary. Furthermore, some blocks may be omitted.

[0251] When a structural feature is described, it can be replaced by a component that performs one or more functions of the structural feature, whether or not the function or these functions are described explicitly or implicitly.

[0252] In the example, device 130 may include components for the following:

[0253] Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG);

[0254] The first timer is started at least in part based on the determination that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero;

[0255] Determine if the first timer has expired; and

[0256] The transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) 180 is caused at least in part by the determination that a first timer has expired, which indicates that the corresponding size of one or more buffers is zero.

[0257] In the example, device 130 may include components for the following:

[0258] Determine at least one configuration parameter 160 for at least one logical channel group (LCG); and

[0259] Send at least one configuration parameter 160 to the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG;

[0260] Receives a buffer status report (BSR) 180 from the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one LCG; and

[0261] The BSR 180 indicates the end of the data burst (EoDB) based at least in part on at least one of the configuration parameters in at least one of the configuration parameters 160.

[0262] In the example, apparatus 130 may include components for performing one or more methods disclosed herein, or at least a portion thereof.

[0263] In the example, device 130 may be configured to perform one or more methods disclosed herein, or at least a portion thereof.

[0264] The above example enables the following components:

[0265] 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-computer interfaces; networks, including cellular, non-cellular, and optical networks; ad-hoc networks; the Internet of Things; the Internet of Things; virtualized networks; and related software and services.

[0266] 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.

[0267] 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'.

[0268] In this specification, the terms '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.

[0269] As used herein, the term "determine" (and its grammatical variations) can include at least: calculating, processing, deriving, measuring, investigating, identifying, searching (e.g., looking in a table, database, or other data structure), confirming, etc. Furthermore, "determine" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), obtaining, etc. Additionally, "determine" can include parsing, selecting, picking, building, etc.

[0270] Various examples are referenced in this specification. Descriptions of features or functions associated with examples 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 property can be a property of only that instance, a property of the class, or a property of a subclass of the class that includes some, but not all, instances of that class. Therefore, it is implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example and not another may, where possible, be used as part of a working composition in that other example, but is not necessarily required to be used in that other example.

[0271] Although examples have been described with reference to various examples in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that modifications may be made to the given examples without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0272] The features described above can be used in combinations other than those explicitly described above.

[0273] 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.

[0274] Although features have been described with reference to some examples, these features may also exist in other examples, whether or not they are described.

[0275] The terms 'a', 'an', or 'the' used in this document are inclusive, not exclusive. That is, any reference to X that includes a (a) / an / the Y indicates that X may include only one Y or may include more than one Y, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. If 'a', 'an', or 'the' is intended to have an exclusive meaning, it will be clearly stated in the context. In some cases, 'at least one' or 'one or more' may be used to emphasize inclusion, but the omission of these terms should not be construed as inferring any exclusive meaning.

[0276] 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 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.

[0277] In this specification, various examples are referenced, and adjectives or adjective phrases are used to describe the characteristics of the examples. Such descriptions of characteristics associated with examples indicate that the characteristic exists exactly as described in some examples and substantially as described in others.

[0278] 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 for the sake of brevity and clarity, these alternative structures and features have been omitted from the foregoing description. 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.

[0279] Although efforts have been made in the foregoing specification to draw attention to features deemed important, it should be understood that the applicant may seek protection by means of the claims for any patentable feature or combination of features mentioned above and / or shown in the drawings, whether or not they are emphasized.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising components for: evaluating a corresponding size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG); starting a first timer based at least in part on a determination that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero; determining whether the first timer has expired; and causing the transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) based at least in part on the determination that the first timer has expired, the BSR indicating that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the component is configured to: determine whether a condition is met; and stop the first timer at least in part based on the determination that the condition is met.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the component is configured to reset the timer at least in part based on the determination that the condition is satisfied.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, wherein determining whether the condition is satisfied comprises: Determine whether the size of at least one of the one or more buffers is not zero after the first timer has been started.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the component is configured to: after the first timer has been stopped, start the first timer at least in part based on a determination that the condition is not met.

6. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the component is configured to: receive at least one configuration parameter associated with the at least one LCG, wherein the component is configured to: configure the first timer based on the received at least one configuration parameter.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the received at least one configuration parameter includes at least one of the following: the desired duration of the first timer; the threshold buffer size; and a reset indicator.

8. The apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the component is configured to: cause the transmission of the buffer status report to the access node, the buffer status report indicating that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero.

9. A user equipment (UE) comprising the means according to at least one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A method comprising: Evaluate the appropriate size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG); A first timer is started based at least in part on a determination that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero; it is determined whether the first timer has expired; and a buffer status report (BSR) is transmitted based at least in part on the determination that the timer has expired, the BSR indicating that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: After the first timer has been started, the first timer is stopped at least in part based on the determination that the size of at least one of the one or more buffers is not zero.

12. A computer program comprising instructions, which, when executed by a means, cause the means to at least: evaluate a corresponding size of one or more buffers associated with data transmission from at least one logical channel group (LCG); start a first timer based at least in part on a determination that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero; determine that the first timer has expired and the corresponding size of the one or more buffers has not changed from zero; and cause the transmission of a buffer status report (BSR) based at least in part on the determination that the first timer has expired and the corresponding size of the one or more buffers has not changed from zero, the buffer status report (BSR) indicating that the corresponding size of the one or more buffers is zero.

13. An apparatus comprising components for: determining at least one configuration parameter for at least one logical channel group (LCG); and transmitting the at least one configuration parameter to the apparatus, the apparatus including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from the at least one LCG; The device receives a buffer status report (BSR) from the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from the at least one LCG. And the BSR indicates the end of the data burst EoDB based at least in part on at least one of the at least one configuration parameter.

14. A method comprising: Determine at least one configuration parameter for at least one logical channel group (LCG); Send the at least one configuration parameter to the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from the at least one LCG; The device receives a buffer status report (BSR) from the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from the at least one LCG. And the BSR indicates the end of the data burst EoDB based at least in part on at least one of the at least one configuration parameter.

15. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a device, cause the device to at least: determine at least one configuration parameter for at least one logical channel group (LCG); and send the at least one configuration parameter to the device, the device including one or more buffers associated with data transmission from the at least one LCG; The device receives a buffer status report (BSR) from the device, which includes one or more buffers associated with data transmission from the at least one LCG. And the BSR indicates the end of the data burst EoDB based at least in part on at least one of the at least one configuration parameter.

Images