System and apparatus suitable for facilitating energy efficency and a processing method in association thereto

Abstract

There is provided there is provided a processing method which includes an input step and a processing step. The input step includes receiving at least one input signal which can include at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter. The processing step includes comparing a measured value associated with a LPWUS and the LPWUS threshold, and determining whether the measured value is above the LPWUS threshold. When the measured value is determined to be above the LPWUS threshold and the at least one mobility parameter is indicative of stationary status, at least one processing task is performed in relation to RRM measurement relaxation, and when otherwise, at least one processing task is performed in relation to RRM measurement.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM AND APPARATUS SUITABLE FOR FACILITATING ENERGY EFFICENCY AND A PROCESSING METHOD IN ASSOCIATION THERETO

[0002] Field Of Invention

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to one or both of a system and an apparatus suitable for facilitating power / energy efficiency in association with, for example, a User Equipment (UE) usable for communication. The present disclosure further relates a processing / communication method which can be associated with the system and / or the apparatus.

[0004] Background

[0005] Generally, energy efficiency would be helpful / desired in communication networks. An example of a communication network would be a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) 5G (fifth generation) New Radio (NR) standard-based telecommunications network.

[0006] Typically, techniques such as a Discontinuous Reception (DRX) mechanism and communication of Wake-Up Signals (WUS) can be utilized to assist in facilitating energy efficiency.

[0007] The present disclosure contemplates that conventional techniques (e.g., DRX and / or WUS) may not facilitate efficiency in an optimal manner.

[0008] The present disclosure contemplates that it would be helpful to address (or at least mitigate) one or more issues in relation to conventional techniques for facilitating efficiency.

[0009] Summary of the Invention

[0010] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a communication / processing method (e.g., referable to as a processing method). The processing method can, for example, include an input step and a processing step, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] The input step can include receiving one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can include at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter.

[0012] The processing step can include any one of, or any combination of, a measuring step, a comparison step and a determining step (i.e., a measuring step, a comparison step and / or a determining step).

[0013] The measuring step can include measuring one or more values associated with a LPWUS. The comparison step can include comparing the value(s) with the LPWUS threshold. The determining step can include determining whether (or not) the value(s) is / are above the LPWUS threshold.

[0014] When the value(s) can be determined to be above the LPWUS threshold and the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of stationary status, one or more processing tasks can be performed in relation to RRM measurement relaxation. Otherwise, one or more processing tasks can be performed in relation to RRM measurement.

[0015] In one embodiment, the processing task(s) in relation to RRM measurement can be performed when one or both of:

[0016] • the one value(s) can be determined not to be above the LPWUS threshold

[0017] • the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of non-stationary status

[0018] Specifically, the processing task(s) in relation to RRM measurement can be performed when the one value(s) can be determined not to be above the LPWUS threshold and / or when the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of non-stationary status. In one embodiment, stationary status can be indicative of a user equipment (UE) being either non-mobile (e.g., fully stationary) or of low-mobility (e.g., limited mobility / substantially stationary).

[0019] In one embodiment, RRM measurement relaxation can be performed based on a predetermined number of “N” cycles. In one example, the predetermined number of “N” cycles can correspond to a predetermined number of “N” discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles.

[0020] In one embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, further include a value which can be indicative of the predetermined number of “N” cycles.

[0021] In one embodiment, the value(s) associated with the LPWUS can correspond to a LPWUS Reference Signal Receive Power (RSRP) value.

[0022] In one embodiment, one or more user equipment (UE) can be configured to perform the input step and the processing step.

[0023] In one embodiment, one or more base stations can be configured to communicate the input signal(s). For example, the base station(s) can correspond to one or more Next Generation Node B (gNB).

[0024] In one embodiment, the processing method can further include an output step. With regard to the output step, one or more output signals can be communicated, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] The present disclosure further contemplates a computer program (not shown) which can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (not shown), cause the computer to carry out the input step, the processing step and / or the output step as discussed with reference to the communication / processing method. For example, the computer program can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the input step and / or the processing step, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The present disclosure yet further contemplates a computer readable storage medium (not shown) having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer (not shown), the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the input step, the processing step and / or the output step as discussed with reference to the communication / processing method. For example, the computer readable storage medium can have data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to carry out the input step and / or the processing step, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an apparatus.

[0027] The apparatus can include a first module, a second module and / or a third module.

[0028] The first module can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can include at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter.

[0029] The second module can be configured to process and / or facilitate processing of the input signal(s) according to the processing method, as discussed earlier, to generate one or more output signals.

[0030] The third module can be configured to communicate the output signal(s). The output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to one or more control signals for facilitating performance of at least one processing task in relation to either Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement or RRM measurement relaxation for a predetermined number of “N” cycles.

[0031] In one embodiment, the apparatus can, for example, correspond to a User Equipment (UE) communicable with a device corresponding to, for example, a base station. The base station can, for example, correspond to a Next generation Node B (gNB). In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a system.

[0032] The system can include one or more apparatuses and one or more devices. The apparatus(es) and the device(s) can, for example, be capable of being coupled via wired coupling and / or wireless coupling.

[0033] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0034] Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0035] Fig. 1a shows a system which can include at least one apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0036] Fig. 1 b to Fig. 1f show an example context and an example scenario in association with the system of Fig. 1a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0037] Fig, 2 shows the apparatus of Fig, 1a in further detail, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0038] Fig. 3 shows a processing / communication method in association with the system of Fig. 1a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0039] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b show an example illustration in association with the processing / communication method of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] Fig. 5 shows an illustrative example in association with the example illustration of Fig 4a and Fig. 4b, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Detailed Description

[0041] The present disclosure generally contemplates the facilitation of, for example, network (e.g., in association with 3GPP based standard / specification etc.) and / or user equipment (UE) efficiency (e.g., energy / power efficiency), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates, in relation to 3GPP Rel. 18 "A study on low-power wake-up signal and receiver for NR (SI)", the possibility of relaxing Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement(s) in the context of the use of LPWUS (Low Power Wake-up Signal). In 3GPP, LPWUS can, for example, correspond to / be associated with a mechanism which can improve energy efficiency in relation to a UE (User Equipment). When appropriate, the UE can remain in sleep mode and can switch off the main radio (MR) until a LPWUS signal has been detected by a secondary radio such as a LPWUS receiver (also referable to as a Low Power Wake Up receiver, LPWUR). When the LPWUS receiver detects a LPWUS signal, the MR can be triggered to switch on. The LPWUS receiver can, for example, be a low complex and low power consuming component (e.g., as compared to the MR) of a UE whereas the MR can, for example, be a high energy consuming component (e.g., as compared to the LPWUS receiver) of the UE. The MR can be switched off (i.e., to be in a sleep mode state) as much as possible (e.g., whenever MR is not required to be switched on) to reduce UE energy consumption.

[0043] Radio Resource Management (RRM) can, for example, correspond to / be related to the system level management of co-channel interference, radio resources, and other radio transmission characteristics in wireless communication systems.

[0044] Appreciably, an idle / inactive UE may be required to perform regular RRM measurements to handle UE mobility. For example, performance of serving cell measurement may be required at least once every DRX (Discontinuous Reception) cycle. Based on such requirement, it is appreciable that even with the LP-WUS associated mechanism, a MR may be required to wake up at least once every DRX cycle. The present disclosure contemplates that this may adversely impact the effectiveness of energy consumption reduction facilitated by the LPWUS, as the MR cannot optimally be maintained in the sleep mode state. Moreover, in the case of high mobility (e.g., a highly mobile UE), the highly mobile UE could be required to wake-up every DRX cycle. This may further adversely impact the effectiveness of energy consumption reduction facilitated by the LPWUS.

[0045] The present disclosure contemplates that it may be helpful to consider an operation mode in association with a UE such that RRM measurement(s) can be relaxed based on the mobility condition (e.g., of the UE) and / or LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) value.

[0046] For example, a gNB (next generation node B) can be configured to generate / set a LPWUS RSRP threshold. Such LPWUS RSRP threshold can be communicated (e.g., from the gNB) to the UE. Moreover, the gNB can be configured to communicate one or more parameters concerning mobility (i.e., mobility parameter(s)) by manner of bit error rate (BER) which can be configurable via, for example, system information. Generally, based on mobility status and the LPWUS RSRP value, UE can be configured to determine whether (or not) to relax RRM measurement. For example, the UE can be configured to receive the mobility parameter(s) (e.g., communicated from the gNB), and if the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of a stationary mobility condition (e.g., stationary UE) and the LPWUS RSRP value is determined (e.g., by the UE) to be above the LPWUS RSRP threshold, the UE can be configured to relax the RRM measurements for a predetermined number (“N”) of LPWUS cycles (e.g., DRX cycles). Otherwise (i.e., if the UE is not stationary and / or the LPWUS RSRP value is not determined to be above the LPWUS RSRP threshold), the UE can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to one or more RRM measurements. The “N” value can, for example, be generated / determined / set by the gNB and can be communicated from the gNB to the UE via, for example, the system information message. In this regard, it is appreciable that energy efficiency for stationary UEs which can be in good coverage condition, can be improved / optimized, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] In the above manner, it is contemplated that the UE (e.g., via LPWUS receiver) can be configured to relax the RRM measurement(s) as appropriate so as to (further) improve / optimize energy efficiency.

[0048] The foregoing will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 hereinafter.

[0049] Referring to Fig. 1a, a system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The system 100 can, for example, be suitable for facilitating energy / power efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0050] As shown, the system 100 can include one or more apparatuses 102, at least one device 104 and, optionally, a communication network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] The apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the device(s) 104. Specifically, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be coupled to the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can be coupled to the communication network 106 and the device(s) 104 can be coupled to the communication network 106. Coupling can be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. The apparatus(es) 102 can, in general, be configured to communicate with the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0053] The apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be associated with / correspond to / include one or more user equipment (UE) which can carry one or more computers, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, an apparatus 102 can correspond to a UE carrying at least one computer (e.g., an electronic device / module having computing capabilities such as an electronic mobile device which can be carried into a vehicle or an electronic module which can be installed in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure) which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with / which can include, for example, Radio Resource Management (RRM) related processing in a manner so as to facilitate adaptive / dynamic RRM, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. RRM related processing can, for example, include / be associated with one or both of RRM measurement (e.g., LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement) and RRM measurement relaxation (i.e., RRM measurement and / or RRM measurement relaxation). In a more specific example, the apparatus(es) 102 can, in one embodiment, include one or more processors (not shown) which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with RRM related processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be configured to receive one or more input signals and perform at least one processing task based on the input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals. The input signal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the device(s) 104 and received by the apparatus(es) 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. As a possible option, the output signal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the apparatus(es) 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 2, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0054] The device(s) 104 can, for example, be associated with / correspond to at least one base station (e.g., at least one gNB). Moreover, the device(s) 104 can, for example, be configured to carry / be associated with / include one or more computers (e.g., an electronic device / module having computing capabilities) which can, for example, be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with the base station. The device(s) 104 can be configured to generate one or more input signals which can be communicated to the apparatus(es) 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. This will be discussed later in further detail in the context of an example scenario, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The communication network 106 can, for example, correspond to an Internet communication network, a cellular-based communication network, a wired-based communication network, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) based communication network, a wireless-based communication network, or any combination thereof. Communication (e.g., between the apparatuses 102 and / or between the apparatus(es) 102 and the device(s) 104) via the communication network 106 can be by manner of one or both of wired communication and wireless communication.

[0055] Earlier mentioned, the apparatus(es) 102 can, for example, be configured to receive at least one input signal and perform at least one processing task in association with RRM related processing based on the input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal. Moreover, the device(s) 104 can, for example, be configured to generate (and communicate) the input signal(s) to the apparatus(es) 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. This will be discussed later in further detail in the context of an example scenario with reference to Fig. 1 f, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0056] Fig. 1 b to Fig. 1e show an example context which can be helpful for discussion in connection with the example scenario, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0057] In the example context, referring to Fig. 1 b, a low power wake-up receiver (LPWUR) is shown, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The LPWUR can, for example, correspond to a front-end device with low power active / passive device to trigger the Radio Frequency (RF) related component(s) and / or the baseband processor(s) of a UE receiver. The LPWUR can, for example, be a low-complexity and low-cost device in addition to the NR (New Radio) receiver. A (low power) wakeup signal can, for example, be detected by the LPWUR. Additionally, the low power) wake up signal can, for example, be operated at the same or different frequency band of the NR operation band, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, it is contemplated that Radio Resource Management (RRM) can, for example, be the system level management of co-channel interference, radio resources, and other radio transmission characteristics in wireless communication systems. RRM can be useful for utilizing limited RF spectrum resources and radio network infrastructure as efficiently as possible. Generally, one or more strategies and / or algorithms can be used for control parameters such as transmit power, user allocation, beamforming, data rates, handover criteria, modulation scheme and / or error coding scheme, etc.

[0058] Moreover, it is contemplated that Dynamic RRM can be associated with the possibility of adaptively adjusting one or more radio network parameters based on traffic load, one or more user positions, user mobility, one or more quality of service requirements and / or base station density, etc. Dynamic RRM can possibly be utilized for, for example, minimizing expensive manual cell planning and / or implementing stricter frequency reuse patterns to improve system spectral efficiency. It is contemplated that efficient dynamic RRM may possibly increase the system spectral efficiency by an order of magnitude (which may be considerably more than what is possible by introducing advanced channel coding and / or source coding schemes).

[0059] Moreover, in the example context, referring to Fig. 1c, a flow diagram of 3GPP evolution is illustrated.

[0060] For an idle / inactive UE, there may be one or more requirements to perform regular RRM measurement to handle UE mobility and serving cell measurement may be required to be performed at least once every DRX cycle. The frequency of neighbor cell measurement can be relaxed for stationary UEs and / or UEs not at the cell edge with Rel-16 / 17 RRM relaxation features. However, it is contemplated that if the same RRM measurement requirements are applied in relation to LPWUS, the MR may potentially be required to wake-up at least once every DRX cycle. This can, for example, be illustrated by Fig. 1d and Fig. 1e which show, respectively, that paging occasion (PO) is monitored for every wake-up signal (WuS) and that paging occasion (PO) is monitored for every low power wake up signal (LPWUS).

[0061] As discussed earlier, this may possibly adversely impact the effectiveness of energy / power consumption reduction facilitated by the LPWUS.

[0062] The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that RRM measurement requirement(s) can be further relaxed and / or the possibility that RRM measurement functionality can be supported by LPWUR, to minimize the wake-up of the MR, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0063] Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, that it may be helpful to consider an operation mode in association with a UE such that RRM measurement(s) can be relaxed based on the mobility condition (e.g., of the UE) and / or LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) value, as will now be discussed with reference to an example scenario, with reference to Fig. 1 f, hereinafter.

[0064] Referring to Fig. 1f, in the example scenario, the system 100 can be suitable for facilitating dynamic / adaptive Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In a more specific example, the system 100 can be suitable for facilitating dynamic / adaptive Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement in a manner so as to facilitate energy / power efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Moreover, an apparatus 102 (referable to as a UE hereinafter in the context of this example scenario) can be carried in / by a vehicle. Moreover, a device 104 (referable to as a “gNB” hereinafter in the context of this example scenario) can be coupled to the UE (e.g., via the communication network 106). Furthermore, in the example scenario, there can be a plurality of UEs (e.g., UE1 and UE2) coupled to a gNB. The UEs can, for example, be located in various locations / regions within the network 106. The locations / regions can, for example, include a LPWUS region and a PDCCH (Physical Downlink Control Channel) region, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Moreover, the boundary between the LPWUS region and the PDCCH region can be considered to be / can denote a RSRP threshold.

[0065] In one example, as shown, UE1 which is closer (as compared to UE2) in proximity to the gNB can be considered to be located in a LPWUS region. The LPWUS region can, for example, be associated with LPWUS coverage. In this regard, UE1 can be considered to be within LPWUS coverage (conversely UE2 is outside of LPWUS coverage). Moreover, as shown, UE2 which is further (as compared to UE1 ) in proximity to the gNB can be considered to be located in a PDCCH region. The PDCCH region can, for example, be associated with PDCCH coverage. In this regard, UE2 can be considered to be within PDCCH coverage whereas UE1 can be considered to be within LPWUS coverage.

[0066] It is contemplated that a UE may consume power / energy for the RRM measurement(s). For example, a UE would need to power up before the DRX “on” period to track the channel in preparation for the RRM measurement(s). It is possible that some of the RRM measurements are not necessary (e.g., low mobility UEs may not need to have to measure as frequently as high mobility UEs). In this regard, it is contemplated that energy / power may be unnecessarily consumed (e.g., by a UE) and this may lead to inefficiencies / non-optimized power / energy consumption.

[0067] The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that a UE (e.g., UE1 ) which is located within LPWUS coverage, and which is not moving (i.e., stationary / not mobile / low mobility) can be configured to perform RRM measurement relaxation, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. It is contemplated that, accordingly, the non-mobile UEs (e.g., UE1 which is considered to be stationary / low mobility) within LPWUS coverage may, for example, possibly benefit from efficiency in power / energy consumption (e.g., if RRM Measurement relaxation is performed), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0068] In one embodiment, signaling (e.g., communication of information / data) may possibly be communicated by a gNB to assist in reduction of power / energy consumption due to, for example, unnecessary RRM measurements. Additionally, information such as UE status information etc, may also be also useful determining (e.g., by a gNB) whether UE power / energy consumption reduction can be enabled / facilitated in regard to the RRM measurement(s), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, as mentioned earlier, LPWUS RSRP threshold can be communicated (e.g., from the gNB) to the UE. Moreover, the gNB can be configured to communicate one or more parameters concerning mobility (i.e., mobility parameter(s)) by manner of bit error rate (BER).

[0069] Specifically, the UE can, for example, configured to receive one or more input signal(s) communicable from the gNB. For example, the gNB can be configured to generate and / or communicate one or more input signals associated with / corresponding to / including / indicative of LPWUS RSRP threshold and / or mobility parameter(s) to the UE. In one embodiment, communication of the input signal(s) from the gNB to the UE can, for example, be based on any one of, or any combination of, the following:

[0070] • In RRCJDLE mode, system information message can be utilized.

[0071] • In RRCJNACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, system information message and / or UE specific message can be utilized.

[0072] • In RRCJNACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, it is possible that the UE can be configured to select Offset range which is configured only using UE specific message.

[0073] The UE can, for example, be further configured to process the input signal(s), as will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 3, in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals in a manner so as to facilitate efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In one specific example, the output signal(s) can be associated with / correspond to / include one or more control signals to facilitate adaptive / dynamic RRM measurement so as to facilitate efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The above-described advantageous aspect(s) of the system 100 of the present disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of a below described apparatus 102 of the present disclosure. Likewise, all below described advantageous aspect(s) of the apparatus 102 of the disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above described system 100 of the disclosure.

[0074] The aforementioned apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter.

[0075] Referring to Fig. 2, an apparatus 102 is shown in further detail in the context of an example implementation 200, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0076] In the example implementation 200, the apparatus 102 can correspond to an electronic module 200a. The electronic module 200a can, in one example, correspond to a mobile device which can, for example, be carried into the vehicle by a user, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In another example, the electronic module 200a can correspond to an electronic device which can be installed / mounted in the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In this regard, the electronic module 200a can be considered to be carried by the vehicle (e.g., either carried into the vehicle by a user or installed / mounted in the vehicle).

[0077] It is contemplated that the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing one or more processing tasks in association with RRM related processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0078] The electronic module 200a can, for example, include a casing 200b. Moreover, the electronic module 200a can, for example, carry any one of a first module 202, a second module 204, a third module 206, or any combination thereof.

[0079] In one embodiment, the electronic module 200a can carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and / or a third module 206. In a specific example, the electronic module 200a can carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and a third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0080] In this regard, it is appreciable that, in one embodiment, the casing 200b can be shaped and dimensioned to carry any one of the first module 202, the second module 204 and the third module 206, or any combination thereof.

[0081] The first module 202 can be coupled to one or both of the second module 204 and the third module 206. The second module 204 can be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the third module 206. The third module 206 can be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the second module 204. In one example, the first module 202 can be coupled to the second module 204 and the second module 204 can be coupled to the third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Coupling between the first module 202, the second module 204 and / or the third module 206 can, for example, be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. Each of the first module 202, the second module 204 and the third module 206 can correspond to one or both of a hardware-based module and a software-based module, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0082] In one example, the first module 202 can correspond to a hardware-based receiver which can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the device(s) 104 (e.g., a gNB), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0083] The second module 204 can, for example, correspond to a hardware-based processor which can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks (e.g., in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals) as will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 3, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0084] The third module 206 can correspond to a hardware-based transmitter which can be configured to communicate one or more output signals from the electronic module 200a. The output signal(s) can, for example, include / correspond to one or more instructions / commands / control signals in association RRM related processing (i.e., RRM measurement and / or RRM measurement relaxation) so as to facilitate efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency and / or communication efficiency), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Efficiency can, for example, be facilitated by manner of adaptive / dynamic RRM measurement based on the output signal(s), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0085] The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that the first and second modules 202 / 204 can be an integrated software-hardware based module (e.g., an electronic part which can carry a software program / algorithm in association with receiving and processing functions / an electronic module programmed to perform the functions of receiving and processing). The present disclosure further contemplates the possibility that the first and third modules 202 / 206 can be an integrated softwarehardware based module (e.g., an electronic part which can carry a software program / algorithm in association with receiving and transmitting functions / an electronic module programmed to perform the functions of receiving and transmitting). The present disclosure yet further contemplates the possibility that the first and third modules 202 / 206 can be an integrated hardware module (e.g., a hardware-based transceiver) capable of performing the functions of receiving and transmitting.

[0086] The above-described advantageous aspect(s) of the apparatus 102 of the present disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of a below described processing / communication method of the present disclosure. Likewise, all below described advantageous aspect(s) of the processing / communication method of the disclosure can also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above described apparatus 102 of the disclosure. It is to be appreciated that these remarks apply analogously to the earlier discussed system 100 of the present disclosure.

[0087] Referring to Fig. 3, a communication method (also referable to as a processing method) in association with the system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The processing method 300 can, for example, be suitable for / capable of facilitating energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0088] The processing method 300 can include any one of an input step 302, a processing step 304 and an output step 306, or any combination thereof, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0089] In one embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302. In another embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302 and the processing step 304. In another embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306. In yet another embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the processing step 304 and one or both of the input step 302 and the output step 306. In yet a further embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306. In yet a further additional embodiment, the processing method 300 can include the processing step 304. In yet another further additional embodiment, the processing method 300 can include any one of or any combination of the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306 (i.e. , the input step 302, the processing step 304 and / or the output step 306).

[0090] With regard to the input step 302, one or more input signal(s) can be received. For example, the input signal(s) can be communicated from the device(s) 104 and can be received by an apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0091] With regard to the processing step 304, at least processing task can be performed in association with the received input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate one or more output signals, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0092] With regard to the output step 306, the output signal(s) can, for example, be communicated, as an option, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, the output signal(s) can optionally be communicated from the apparatus 102. In a more specific example, the output signal(s) can optionally be communicated from the apparatus 102 to one or both of at least one device 104 and another apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0093] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b show an illustrative context in association with the processing method 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0094] In the illustrative context as shown in Fig. 4a, a gNB can, for example, be configured to generate / set / define a LPWUS threshold such as a LPWUS RSRP threshold, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Moreover, the gNB can, for example, be configured to generate / set / define one or more parameters concerning mobility (i.e., mobility parameter(s)), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Furthermore, the gNB can, for example, be configured to communicate (e.g., via through system information message) one or more input signals which can include / be associated with / correspond to / be indicative of the LPWUS threshold (e.g., LPWUS RSRP threshold) and / or the mobility parameter(s) (e.g., based on BER), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The mobility parameter(s) can, for example, be indicative of mobility status (e.g., of at least one UE), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0095] In the illustrative context as shown in Fig. 4b, a UE can be configured to receive the input signal(s). Generally, based on mobility status (e.g., as can be indicated / derived / determined / defined per the mobility parameter(s)) and a LPWUS value (e.g., a LPWUS RSRP value), UE can, for example, be configured to determ ine / decide whether or not to perform one or more tasks in relation to RRM measurement, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. When / lf the mobility status is “stationary” (e.g., no mobility or low mobility) and the LPWUS value is above the LPWUS threshold (i.e., “Yes”), one or more processing tasks in relation to RRM measurement relaxation can be performed (e.g., by the UE). In one example, RRM measurement(s) can be relaxed for “N” LPWUS cycles (e.g., DRX cycles). In another example, the LPWUR (e.g., which can be included in a UE) can be configured to perform the task(s) of RRM measurement relaxation. Otherwise (i.e., “No”), when / if the mobility status is “not stationary” (e.g., mobile) and / or the LPWUS value is not above the LPWUS threshold, one or more processing tasks in relation to RRM measurement can be performed (e.g., by the UE). For example, the “N” value can be received via, for example, the system information message. In this regard, it is appreciable that the gNB can, for example, be further configured to define / set / determine the “N” value and the input signal(s) can, for example, include / be associated with / correspond to / be indicative of the “N” value, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0096] Fig. 5 shows an illustrative example in association with the example context of Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0097] Specifically, as shown, RRM measurement can possibly be relaxed if the LPWUS value (e.g., LPWUS RSRP value) is greater than the LPWUS threshold (i.e., as indicated by “RRM m.”) and the UE is in stationary state (e.g., no mobility or low mobility).

[0098] In view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a processing method 300.

[0099] The processing method 300 can, for example, include an input step 302 and a processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0100] The input step 302 can include receiving one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can include at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter.

[0101] The processing step 304 can include any one of, or any combination of, a measuring step, a comparison step and a determining step (i.e., a measuring step, a comparison step and / or a determining step).

[0102] The measuring step can include measuring one or more values associated with a LPWUS. The comparison step can include comparing the value(s) with the LPWUS threshold. The determining step can include determining whether (or not) the value(s) is / are above the LPWUS threshold. When the value(s) can be determined to be above the LPWUS threshold and the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of stationary status, one or more processing tasks can be performed in relation to RRM measurement relaxation. Otherwise, one or more processing tasks can be performed in relation to RRM measurement.

[0103] In one embodiment, the processing task(s) in relation to RRM measurement can be performed when one or both of:

[0104] • the one value(s) can be determined not to be above the LPWUS threshold

[0105] • the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of non-stationary status Specifically, the processing task(s) in relation to RRM measurement can be performed when the one value(s) can be determined not to be above the LPWUS threshold and / or when the mobility parameter(s) can be indicative of non-stationary status.

[0106] In one embodiment, stationary status can be indicative of a user equipment (UE) being either non-mobile (e.g., fully stationary) or of low-mobility (e.g., limited mobility / substantially stationary).

[0107] In one embodiment, RRM measurement relaxation can be performed based on a predetermined number of “N” cycles. In one example, the predetermined number of “N” cycles can correspond to a predetermined number of “N” discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles.

[0108] In one embodiment, the input signal(s) can, for example, further include a value which can be indicative of the predetermined number of “N” cycles.

[0109] In one embodiment, the value(s) associated with the LPWUS can correspond to a LPWUS Reference Signal Receive Power (RSRP) value.

[0110] In one embodiment, one or more user equipment (UE) can be configured to perform the input step 302 and the processing step 304. In one embodiment, one or more base stations can be configured to communicate the input signal(s). For example, the base station(s) can correspond to one or more Next Generation Node B (gNB).

[0111] The present disclosure further contemplates a computer program (not shown) which can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer (not shown), cause the computer to carry out the input step 302, the processing step 304 and / or the output step 306 as discussed with reference to the communication / processing method 300. For example, the computer program can include instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the input step 302 and / or the processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0112] The present disclosure yet further contemplates a computer readable storage medium (not shown) having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer (not shown), the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, to carry out the input step 302, the processing step 304 and / or the output step 306 as discussed with reference to the communication / processing method 300. For example, the computer readable storage medium can have data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed by the computer, cause the computer to carry out the input step 302 and / or the processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0113] Further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates an apparatus 102 which can include a first module 202, a second module 204 and / or a third module 206.

[0114] The first module 202 can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can include at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter. The second module 204 can be configured to process and / or facilitate processing of the input signal(s) according to the processing method, as discussed earlier, to generate one or more output signals.

[0115] The third module 206 can be configured to communicate the output signal(s). The output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to one or more control signals for facilitating performance of at least one processing task in relation to either Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement or RRM measurement relaxation for a predetermined number of “N” cycles.

[0116] In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 can, for example, correspond to a User Equipment (UE) communicable with a device 104 corresponding to, for example, a base station. The base station can, for example, correspond to a Next generation Node B (gNB).

[0117] Yet further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a system 100 which can include one or more apparatuses 102 and one or more devices 104. The apparatus(es) 102 and the device(s) 104 can, for example, be capable of being coupled via wired coupling and / or wireless coupling.

[0118] It should be appreciated that the embodiments described above can be combined in any manner as appropriate (e.g., one or more embodiments as discussed in the “Detailed Description” section can be combined with one or more embodiments as described in the “Summary of the Invention” section).

[0119] It should be further appreciated by the person skilled in the art that variations and combinations of embodiments described above, not being alternatives or substitutes, may be combined to form yet further embodiments.

[0120] In one example, the possibility of the output signal(s) being communicated from the apparatus(es) 102 was discussed. It is appreciable that the output signal(s) need not necessarily be communicated from the apparatus(es) 102. Specifically, the possibility that the output signal(s) need not necessarily be communicated outside of the apparatus(es) 102 is contemplated, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. More specifically, the output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to internal command(s) / instruction(s) (e.g., communicated only within an apparatus 102) for adaptively controlling operational configuration of an apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0121] In another example, application(s) of the present disclosure in association with / in the context of low power wake up radio and / or ambient loT (Internet of Things) type device(s) can be possible, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0122] In yet another example, the device(s) 104 (e.g., gNB) can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with RRM measurement relaxation.

[0123] In yet a further example, the apparatus(es) 102 (e.g,. UE) and / or the device(s) 104 (e.g., gNB) can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with RRM measurement relaxation.

[0124] In yet a further example, the example of LPWUS RSRP is used in the context of RRM measurement relaxation. The present disclosure contemplates that other examples such as Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) may also be possible, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0125] In the foregoing manner, various embodiments of the disclosure are described for addressing at least one of the foregoing disadvantages. Such embodiments are intended to be encompassed by the following claims, and are not to be limited to specific forms or arrangements of parts so described and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of this disclosure that numerous changes and / or modification can be made, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

Claim(s)1 . A processing method (300) comprising: an input step (302) which comprises receiving at least one input signal comprising at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter; a processing step (304) which comprises at least one of: a measuring step which comprises measuring at least one value associated with a LPWUS; a comparison step which comprises comparing the at least one value with the LPWUS threshold; a determining step which comprises determining whether the at least one value is above the LPWUS threshold; wherein: when the at least one value is determined to be above the LPWUS threshold and the at least one mobility parameter is indicative of stationary status, at least one processing task is performed in relation to RRM measurement relaxation, and when otherwise, at least one processing task is performed in relation to RRM measurement.

2. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein at least one of: the at least one value is determined not to be above the LPWUS threshold, and the at least one mobility parameter is indicative of non-stationary status, at least one processing task is performed in relation to RRM measurement.

3. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein stationary status is indicative of a user equipment being one or non-mobile and of low-mobility.

4. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein RRM measurement relaxation is performed based on a predetermined number of “N” cycles.

5. The processing method (300) as in claim 4, wherein the predetermined number of “N” cycles corresponds to a predetermined number of “N” discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles.

6. The processing method (300) as in claim 4, wherein the at least one input signal further comprises a value indicative of the predetermined number of “N” cycles.

7. The processing method (300) as in claim 5, wherein the at least one value associated with the LPWUS corresponds to a LPWUS Reference Signal Receive Power (RSRP) value.

8. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein at least one user equipment (UE) is configurable to perform the input step (302) and the processing step (304).

9. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein at least one base station is configurable to communicate the at least one input signal.

10. The processing method (300) as in claim 9, the at least one base station corresponds to at least one Next Generation Node B (gNB).

11. The processing method (300) as in claim 10, wherein the at least one gNB is configurable communicate the at least one input signal via at least one of a system information message and a User Equipment (UE) specific message.

12. A computer program comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out at least one of the at least one of input step and the processing step according to the processing method of any of the preceding claims.

13. A computer readable storage medium having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, whenexecuted by the computer, to carry out at least one of the input step and the processing step according to the processing method of any of the preceding claims.

14. An apparatus (102) comprising: a first module (202) configurable to receive at least one input signal comprising at least one Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) threshold and at least one mobility parameter; a second module (204) configurable to at least one of process and facilitate processing of the input signal according to the processing method (300) of claim 1 to generate at least one output signal; and a third module (206) configurable to communicate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal for facilitating performance of at least one processing task in relation to one of:Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement, andRRM measurement relaxation for a predetermined number of “N” cycles.

15. The apparatus (102) as in claim 14, wherein the apparatus (102) corresponds to a User Equipment (UE) communicable with a device (104) corresponding to a base station, wherein the base station corresponds to a Next generation Node B (gNB).

16. A system comprising: at least one apparatus (102) according to any of claims 14 and 15; and at least one device (104) according to any of claims 14 and 15, wherein the apparatus (102) and the device (104) are capable of being coupled via at least one of wired coupling and wireless coupling.

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