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 indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity. The processing step includes determining the RRM measurement periodicity by manner of identifying an offset range within which the offset resides. At least one processing task in relation RRM measurement relaxation or impediment of RRM measurement can be performed based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity.

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 processing method can, for example, include an input step and a processing step, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0012] The input step can include receiving at least one or more input signal(s). The input signal(s) can, for example, be indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity.

[0013] The processing step can include any one of, or any combination of, a measuring step, a comparison step, a first determining step and a second determining step (i.e. , a measuring step, a comparison step, a first determining step and / or a second determining step).

[0014] The measuring step can include measuring one or more values associated with a current Low Power Wake-Up Signal (LPWUS) RSRP / RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Power / Reference Signal Received Quality).

[0015] The comparison step can include comparing the value(s) with a LPWUS threshold.

[0016] The first determining step can include calculating an offset based on the comparison between the value(s) and the LPWUS threshold.

[0017] The second determining step can include determining the RRM measurement periodicity by manner of identifying the offset range within which the offset resides (e.g., whether the offset falls within an offset range).

[0018] It is contemplated that, based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity, one or more processing tasks in relation to either RRM measurement relaxation or impeding RRM can be performed. In one example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to RRM measurement relaxation based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity. In another example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to impeding RRM measurement based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity.

[0019] In one embodiment, the mapping can be associated with a plurality of RRM measurement periodicities and each RRM measurement periodicity can be associated with an offset range. The plurality of RRM measurement periodicities can, for example, include a first RRM measurement periodicity and a second RRM measurement periodicity. The first RRM measurement periodicity is associable with a first offset range and the second RRM measurement periodicity is associable with a second offset range. In one example, the first RRM measurement periodicity is based on a first number of predetermined cycles and the second RRM measurement periodicity is based on a second number of predetermined cycles. The first number of predetermined cycles and the second number of predetermined cycles can be different, and the first offset range and the second offset range can be different. In a more specific example, the first number of predetermined cycles is associated with a first number of discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles and the second number of predetermined cycles is associated with a second number of discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles.

[0020] In one embodiment, RRM measurement relaxation can be performed based on the first number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the first offset range, and RRM measurement relaxation can be performed based on the second number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the second offset range.

[0021] In one embodiment, RRM measurement can be impeded based on the first number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the first offset range, and RRM measurement can be impeded based on the second number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the second offset range. In one embodiment, at least one user equipment (UE) can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to the input step 302 and the processing step 304.

[0022] In one embodiment, at least one base station (e.g., at least one Next Generation Node B, gNB) is configurable to generate the at least one input signal. For example, the gNB can be configured to communicate the at least one input signal via a system information message and / or a User Equipment (UE) specific message.

[0023] In one embodiment, the offset range can correspond to a LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) offset range and / or a LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) offset range.

[0024] In one embodiment, impeding RRM measurement includes impeding LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement.

[0025] 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.

[0026] 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.

[0027] 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.

[0028] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an apparatus.

[0029] The apparatus can include a first module, a second module and / or a third module.

[0030] The first module can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can be indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity.

[0031] 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.

[0032] The third module can be configured to communicate the output signal(s).

[0033] The output signal(s) can correspond to at least one control signal for facilitating performance of at least one processing task, based on RRM measurement periodicity, in relation to RRM measurement and / or impediment of RRM measurement. In one example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement relaxation based on RRM measurement periodicity. In another example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to impediment of RRM measurement based on RRM measurement periodicity. Moreover, RRM measurement can, for example, be associated with (measurement of) LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and / or (measurement of) LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0034] In one embodiment, the apparatus 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).

[0035] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a system.

[0036] 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.

[0037] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0038] Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0039] Fig. 1a shows a system which can include at least one apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0040] Fig. 1 b to Fig. 1d show an example scenario in association with the system of Fig. 1a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0041] Fig, 2 shows the apparatus of Fig, 1a in further detail, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0042] Fig. 3 shows a processing / communication method in association with the system of Fig. 1a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0043] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b shows an example context in association with the processing / communication method of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] 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. Detailed Description

[0045] 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.

[0046] One possibility to address the issue of energy / power efficiency is utilization of a separated / integrated receiver (i.e., low power wake up receiver, LPWUR) which can be introduced to monitor low power wake up signal (LPWUS). A Main radio (MR) which can correspond to a regular communication device (i.e., New Radio, NR, device), in which operations in relation to, for example, RRCJDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED state(s) (i.e., Radio Resource Control idle / inactive / connected state(s)) can be performed. When no data / signals are being communicated, a UE may turn off the MR or maintain the MR in ultradeep-sleep state while utilizing a separated LPWUR for monitoring the LPWUS for possible communication of data / signals to facilitate power saving. LPWUS for possible data / signal so that more power saving gain is achieved. Moreover, a UE accessing network may, anyway, be required to stay in at least one RRC state - however, with LPWUR, the MR can possibly be turned off. Notably, in such LPWUS mode, the UE monitors LPWUS (or LP-synchronization signal, reference signal if possible) without actions related to RRCJDLE / INACTIVE (e.g., paging / PEI reception, SSB / SI reception).

[0047] It is contemplated that during such monitoring, the UE may also be performing RRM measurement(s). Moreover, a UE supporting LPWUR may be mobile and the UE may need to continuously perform measurement to at least ascertain whether the UE could be within LPWUS coverage. Additionally, one or more gNBs periodically broadcast a LPRS ((low power wake up reference signal) which can be decoded by a LPWUR (Low Power Wake-Up Receiver).

[0048] It is further contemplated that the above-noted possibility may, however, not facilitate energy / power efficiency in an optimal / efficient manner as energy / power may still need to be consumed (e.g., by a UE) during the above discussed monitoring. This may possibly still lead to energy / power inefficiency.

[0049] The present disclosure contemplates that it may be helpful to consider some form of dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement which will aid in power / energy consumption efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement can be based RRM Measurement periodicity. RRM measurement periodicity can, for example, be based on LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) offset range and / or LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) offset range. For example, a UE can be configured to adapt RRM Measurement periodicity based on LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range where mapping between the offset range and RRM Measurement periodicity (e.g., based on number of Discontinuous Reception, DRX, cycles) which can, for example, be configured / generated / determined by a gNB, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. A UE can be configured to measure a current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and can be configured to compare the current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value with reference to the LPWUS threshold. The UE can be further configured to calculate / compute / determine an offset based on the comparison. The UE can yet be further configured to apply a RRM Measurement periodicity based on the calculated / computed / determined offset. For example, if the RRM measurement periodicity is determined to be 10, the UE can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to RRM measurement relaxation for 10 DRX cycles. Alternatively, the UE can be configured not perform LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement. For example, UE can be configured not perform LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement for 10 DRX cycles.

[0050] In one specific example, the gNB can be configured to generate / compute at least one LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) Offset range and / or at least one LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) Offset range. Moreover, the gNB can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to mapping between LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range and RRM Measurement periodicity (number of DRX cycles). Mapping between LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range and RRM Measurement periodicity can, for example, be by manner of system information message and / or UE specific message.

[0051] In the above manner, dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement can be facilitated and power / energy consumption efficiency can also be possibility facilitated, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] The foregoing will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 hereinafter.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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.

[0055] 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.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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.

[0058] 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.

[0059] 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, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, in the context of an example scenario with reference to Fig. 1b to Fig. 1 d, hereinafter.

[0060] Specifically, Fig. 1b shows an example context for discussion in connection with the example scenario as shown in Fig. 1c and Fig. 1d, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] More specifically, in the example context, referring to Fig. 1b, as mentioned earlier, one possibility to address the issue of energy / power efficiency is utilization of a separated / integrated receiver (i.e., low power wake up receiver, LPWUR) which can be introduced to monitor low power wake up signal (LPWUS). A Main radio (MR) which can correspond to a regular communication device (i.e., New Radio, NR, device), in which operations in relation to, for example, RRCJDLE / INACTIVE / CONNECTED state(s) (i.e., Radio Resource Control idle / inactive / connected state(s)) can be performed. When no data / signals are being communicated, a UE may turn off the MR or maintain the MR in ultradeep-sleep state while utilizing a separated LPWUR for monitoring the LPWUS for possible communication of data / signals to facilitate power saving. Moreover, a UE accessing network may, anyway, be required to stay in at least one RRC state - however, with LPWUR, the MR can possibly be turned off. Notably, in such LPWUS mode, the UE monitors LPWUS (or LP-synchronization signal, reference signal if possible) without actions related to RRCJDLE / INACTIVE (e.g., paging / PEI reception, SSB / SI reception). It is contemplated that during such monitoring, the UE may also be performing RRM measurement(s). Moreover, a UE supporting LPWUR may be mobile and the UE may need to continuously perform measurement to at least ascertain whether the UE could be within LPWUS coverage. Additionally, one or more gNBs periodically broadcast a LPRS ((low power wake up reference signal) which can be decoded by a LPWUR (Low Power Wake-Up Receiver). It is further contemplated that the above-noted possibility may, however, not facilitate energy / power efficiency in an optimal / efficient manner as energy / power may still need to be consumed (e.g., by a UE) during the above discussed monitoring. This may possibly still lead to energy / power inefficiency.

[0062] In this regard, the present disclosure contemplates that it may be helpful to consider some form of dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement which will aid in power / energy consumption efficiency as will be discussed further in detail in the context of an example scenario associated with the system 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0063] Referring to Fig. 1c and Fig. 1 d, 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 / RSRQ threshold.

[0064] 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.

[0065] It is contemplated that in a situation where UE1 and UE2 are, for example, mobile, both the UEs (i.e., UE1 and UE2) may need to perform RRM measurement which may possibly not be energy efficient. In this regard, the present disclosure contemplates the possibility of performing RRM Measurement relaxation for a mobile UE (e.g., UE1 ) which can be in LPWUS coverage, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0066] Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates the possibility that a UE (e.g., UE1) which is located within LPWUS coverage, and which is not moving (stationary) or mobile (non-stationary) can be configured to perform RRM measurement relaxation (rather than basic reliance on LPRS, performing RRM relaxation only on condition(s) that UE is not mobile / low mobility and / or UE is not located at cell edge), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. It is contemplated that, accordingly, the UEs (e.g., UE1 ) 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. 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 an association (e.g., mapping) between offset range (e.g., LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range) and RRM Measurement periodicity 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:

[0067] • In RRCJDLE mode, system information message can be utilized.

[0068] • In RRCJNACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, system information message and / or UE specific message can be utilized.

[0069] • 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.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] The aforementioned apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter. 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.

[0073] 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).

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] The processing method 300 can, for example, be suitable for / capable of facilitating energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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).

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b shows an example context in association with the processing method 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0092] In the example context as shown in Fig. 4a, a gNB can, for example, be configured to provide an association (e.g., a map / mapping) between an offset (e.g., based on LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range) and RRM measurement periodicity (e.g., mapping between offset and RRM measurement periodicity) and communicate one or more input signals which can correspond to / be associated with / include / indicative of the an association between an offset and RRM measurement periodicity, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Moreover, the gNB can, for example, be further configured to generate / define at least one LPWUS RSRQ and / or RSRQ offset range, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0093] In the example context as shown in Fig. 4b, a UE can be configured to receive the input signal(s). The UE can be further configured to determ ine / calculate an offset (based on a comparison between a current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and LPWUS threshold). The UE can be further configured to apply RRM measurement periodicity based on the offset, according to the association between the offset and RRM measurement periodicity.

[0094] 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.

[0095] Specifically, the association between the offset and RRM measurement periodicity can be in the form of a mapping table as shown in Fig. 5, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. If UE calculates 02 as offset, the UE can be configured to skip RRM Measurements for P2 periodicity (number of DRX cycles). Input signal(s) associated with / corresponding to / indicative of / including the mapping table can, for example, be received (e.g., by the UE) based on system information message and / or UE specific message.

[0096] Generally, with regard to the example context, it is contemplated that a UE can, for example, adapt RRM Measurement periodicity based on LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset range. The gNB can, for example, be configured to determine mapping between the offset range and RRM Measurement periodicity (number of DRX cycles). The UE can be configured to measure / determine a current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and can be configured to compare the measured / determined current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value with a LPWUS threshold. The UE can be further configured to calculate / determine, based on the comparison (e.g., as between the measured / determined current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS threshold), an offset. The UE can yet be further configured to determine RRM Measurement periodicity based on the calculated offset. The UE can yet be further configured to perform one or more tasks in association with RRM related processing based on the determined RRM Measurement periodicity. In one example, if the RRM measurement periodicity is “10”, the UE can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to RRM measurement relaxation for 10 DRX cycles. In another example, if the RRM measurement periodicity is “10”, the UE can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to impeding LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement for 10 DRX cycles.

[0097] In view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a processing method 300.

[0098] 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.

[0099] The input step 302 can include receiving at least one or more input signal(s). The input signal(s) can, for example, be indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity.

[0100] The processing step 304 can include any one of, or any combination of, a measuring step, a comparison step, a first determining step and a second determining step (i.e. , a measuring step, a comparison step, a first determining step and / or a second determining step).

[0101] The measuring step can include measuring one or more values associated with a current Low Power Wake-Up Signal (LPWUS) RSRP / RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Power / Reference Signal Received Quality).

[0102] The comparison step can include comparing the value(s) with a LPWUS threshold. The first determining step can include calculating an offset based on the comparison between the value(s) and the LPWUS threshold.

[0103] The second determining step can include determining the RRM measurement periodicity by manner of identifying the offset range within which the offset resides (e.g., whether the offset falls within an offset range).

[0104] It is contemplated that, based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity, one or more processing tasks in relation to either RRM measurement relaxation or impeding RRM can be performed. In one example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to RRM measurement relaxation based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity. In another example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to impeding RRM measurement based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity.

[0105] In one embodiment, the mapping can be associated with a plurality of RRM measurement periodicities and each RRM measurement periodicity can be associated with an offset range. The plurality of RRM measurement periodicities can, for example, include a first RRM measurement periodicity and a second RRM measurement periodicity. The first RRM measurement periodicity is associable with a first offset range and the second RRM measurement periodicity is associable with a second offset range. In one example, the first RRM measurement periodicity is based on a first number of predetermined cycles and the second RRM measurement periodicity is based on a second number of predetermined cycles. The first number of predetermined cycles and the second number of predetermined cycles can be different, and the first offset range and the second offset range can be different. In a more specific example, the first number of predetermined cycles is associated with a first number of discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles and the second number of predetermined cycles is associated with a second number of discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles.

[0106] In one embodiment, RRM measurement relaxation can be performed based on the first number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the first offset range, and RRM measurement relaxation can be performed based on the second number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the second offset range.

[0107] In one embodiment, RRM measurement can be impeded based on the first number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the first offset range, and RRM measurement can be impeded based on the second number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the second offset range.

[0108] In one embodiment, at least one user equipment (UE) can be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in relation to the input step 302 and the processing step 304.

[0109] In one embodiment, at least one base station (e.g., at least one Next Generation Node B, gNB) is configurable to generate the at least one input signal. For example, the gNB can be configured to communicate the at least one input signal via a system information message and / or a User Equipment (UE) specific message.

[0110] In one embodiment, the offset range can correspond to a LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) offset range and / or a LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) offset range.

[0111] In one embodiment, impeding RRM measurement includes impeding LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement.

[0112] 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. 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 be indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity.

[0115] The second module 204 can be configured to process and / or facilitate processing of the input signal(s) according to the processing method 300, as discussed earlier, to generate one or more output signals.

[0116] The third module 206 can be configured to communicate the output signal(s).

[0117] The output signal(s) can correspond to at least one control signal for facilitating performance of at least one processing task, based on RRM measurement periodicity, in relation to RRM measurement and / or impediment of RRM measurement. In one example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement relaxation based on RRM measurement periodicity. In another example, at least one processing task can be performed in relation to impediment of RRM measurement based on RRM measurement periodicity. Moreover, RRM measurement can, for example, be associated with (measurement of) LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and / or (measurement of) LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0118] 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).

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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).

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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. 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. 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 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 indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity; a processing step (304) which comprises at least one of: a measuring step which comprises measuring at least one value associated with a current Low Power Wake-Up Signal (LPWUS) RSRP / RSRQ (Reference Signal Received Power / Reference Signal Received Quality); a comparison step which comprises comparing the at least one value with a LPWUS threshold; a first determining step which comprises calculating an offset based on the comparison between the at least one value and the LPWUS threshold; a second determining step which comprises determining the RRM measurement periodicity by manner of identifying the offset range within which the offset resides, wherein at least one processing task in relation to one of:RRM measurement relaxation is performed based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity, and impeding RRM measurement is performed based on the determined RRM measurement periodicity.

2. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein the mapping is associable with a plurality of RRM measurement periodicities and each RRM measurement periodicity being associable with an offset range, the plurality of RRM measurement periodicities comprising: a first RRM measurement periodicity and a second RRM measurement periodicity, wherein the first RRM measurement periodicity is associable with a first offset range and the second RRM measurement periodicity is associable with a second offset range.

3. The processing method (300) as in claim 2, wherein the first RRM measurement periodicity is based on a first number of predetermined cycles and the second RRM measurement periodicity is based on a second number of predetermined cycles.

4. The processing method (300) as in claim 3, wherein the first number of predetermined cycles and the second number of predetermined cycles being different, and wherein the first offset range and the second offset range are different.

5. The processing method (300) as in claim 4, wherein the first number of predetermined cycles is associated with a first number of discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles and the second number of predetermined cycles is associated with a second number of discontinuous reception (DRX) cycles.

6. The processing method (300) as in claim 5, wherein RRM measurement relaxation is performed based on the first number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the first offset range, and wherein RRM measurement relaxation is performed based on the second number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the second offset range.

7. The processing method (300) as in claim 5, wherein RRM measurement is impeded based on the first number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the first offset range, and wherein RRM measurement is impeded based on the second number of DRX cycles if the offset resides within the second offset range.

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 generate 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. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein the offset range corresponds to at least one of a LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) offset range and a LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) offset range.

13. The processing method (300) as in claim 1 , wherein impeding RRM measurement comprises impeding LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ measurement14. 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.

15. A computer readable storage medium having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, when executed 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.

16. An apparatus (102) comprising: a first module (202) configurable to receive at least one input signal indicative of a mapping between at least one offset range and at least one Radio Resource Management (RRM) Measurement periodicity; 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 at least one of:Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement relaxation based on RRM measurement periodicity, andImpediment, based on RRM measurement periodicity, of RRM measurement associated with at least one of:LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), and LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

17. The apparatus (102) as in claim 16, 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).

18. A system comprising: at least one apparatus (102) according to any of claims 16 and 17; and at least one device (104) according to any of claims 16 and 17, 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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