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

Abstract

Disclosed is a method for optimizing power consumption of a wireless network. The method comprises receiving, by way of a first module, at least one input signal comprising an offset range, the offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS); and executing, by way of a second module, a processing step for determining a differential value. The processing step comprises measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance; determining a differential value between a threshold value and the at least one value associated with the LPWUS measured; and determining whether the differential value determined falls within the offset range; or whether the differential value determined falls outside the offset range. In response to the differential value executed by the second module, the processing step performs executing, by way of a third module, a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. A system, an apparatus and a computer-readable medium is also disclosed.

Description

SYSTEM AND APPARATUS SUITABLE FOR FACILITATING ENERGY EFFICENCY AND A PROCESSING METHOD IN ASSOCIATION THERETOField Of Invention

[0001] This disclosure relates to facilitating power consumption for wireless communication networks. More specifically, a system and method for facilitating power consumption of wireless communication networks.Background

[0002] Power consumption management is important to increase throughput of wireless communication networks such as a 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) 5G (fifth generation) New Radio (NR) standard-based telecommunications network, broadcast network, radio network or even ambient Internet of Things (loT) devices.

[0003] Conventional techniques apply the concept of turning devices into idle state when not receiving signals and sending signals to trigger the devices from idle state to working state. An example of such technique commonly used may be a Discontinuous Reception (DRX) mechanism which focus on reducing power consumption and improve battery life by reducing devices’ resource draw.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for improved power efficiency and amelioration of power consumption of wireless communications to increase environmental responsibilities.Summary of the Invention

[0005] In an aspect of this disclosure, a method for optimizing power consumption of a wireless network is provided. The method comprises an input step of receiving, by way of a first module, at least one input signal comprising an offset range, the offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS). The comprises a processing step of executing, by way of a second module, a processing step for determining a differential value. The processing step further comprises measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance. The processing step further comprises determining a differential value between a threshold value and the at least one value associated with the LPWUS measured. The processing step further comprises determining whether the differential value determined falls within the offset range or whether the differential value determined falls outside the offset range. In response to the differential value executed by the second module at the processing step, an output step is executed, by way of a third module, the output being a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. Advantageously, the RRM measurement may be done on a relaxed measurement or on a serving cell and neighboring cells thereof, to support mobility management such as cell reselection in accordance with the differential value and the offset range, thereby achieving power saving.

[0006] In response to determining the differential value falling outside the offset range, the third module may execute a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement. Consequently, power saving mode is achieved.

[0007] In some embodiment, the method comprises determining the at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a first time instance in accordance with at least one low power wake up reference signal (LPRS). In some embodiment, the method comprises determining the at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a second time instance in accordance with at least one low power wake up reference signal (LPRS). Advantageously, the method allows measurement intervals at different time instances. The number of different time instances may be determined relative to the low power reference signal (LP-RS).

[0008] The method may comprise measuring, by way of a user equipment (UE) within a coverage range of the LPWUS, at least one value associated with the LPWUS. The at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP). The at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). The at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with both at least one of RSRP and at least one of RSRQ.

[0009] The method may comprise measuring, by way of a mobile user equipment (UE) within a coverage range of the LPWUS, at least one value associated with the LPWUS. The at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP). The at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). The at least one value may be associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with both at least one of RSRP and at least one of RSRQ.

[0010] The method may comprise obtaining at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a first time instance (t) and storing, by way of a memory of the mobile user equipment (UE), the at least one value associated with the LPWUS obtained during the at least a first time instance (t).

[0011] The method may comprise obtaining at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a second time instance (t+1) and storing, by way of the memory of the mobile user equipment (UE), the at least one value associated with the LPWUS obtained during the at least a second time instance (t+1).

[0012] The processing step as discussed above may further comprise comparing the at least one value associated with (t) with the at least one value associated with (t+1). The processing step as discussed above may further comprise determining whether the mobile UE is within the coverage range. The processing step as discussed above may further comprise both sequence of comparing the at least one value associated with (t) with the at least one value associated with (t+1) and sequence of determining whether the mobile UE is within the coverage range to decide on an output of executing a RRM measurement relaxation.

[0013] The method may include performing, by way of at least one base station, a communication step of communicating at least one signal associated with the offset range. The at least one base station may be for example, at least one Next Generation Node B (gNB).

[0014] In some embodiment, the method comprising the input step of receiving (302) at least one input signal comprising an offset range, the offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) is executable by a User Equipment (UE). That is to say, the first module may be a UE.

[0015] The offset range may be associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) received has a signal value corresponding to a reference signal, the reference signal comprising at least one of a Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP).

[0016] In some embodiment, the at least one LPWUS comprises a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP). The at least one LPWUS comprises a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). In some embodiment the at least one LPWUS LPWUS comprises a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and a signalvalue corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0017] In an aspect of disclosure, a computer program is provided. The computer program may comprise 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 the input step and the processing step according to the method as disclosed.

[0018] In an aspect of disclosure, a computer readable storage medium is provided. The computer readable storage medium may have 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 method disclosed.

[0019] In an aspect of this disclosure, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus comprises a first module may be operable to receive at least one input signal. The input signal may comprise at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) associated with an offset range. The apparatus comprises a second module (204) may be operable to retrieve and execute a processing step (304) to determine a differential value. The second module is operable to measure at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance. The second module is operable to determine a differential value between a threshold value and the at least one value associated with the LPWUS measured. The second module is operable to determine, whether the differential value determined falls within the offset range or whether the differential value determined falls outside the offset range. The apparatus comprises a third module may be operable to generate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal to execute a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement in response to the differential value determined. Advantageously, the apparatus as disclosed herein may provide energy efficiency through RRM relaxation method at time intervals using parameters of a LPWUS signal as an offset range, or a threshold.

[0020] The apparatus may comprise a User Equipment (UE) in wireless communication with a device (104) comprising to a base station. The base station may be a Next generation Node B (gNB) may be operable to wirelessly communicate at least one signal associated with the offset range to the UE.

[0021] In an aspect of this disclosure, a system is provided. The system comprises at least one apparatus as disclosed in this disclosure and at least one device as disclosed in this disclosure. In some embodiment, the apparatus and the device may be operable to be coupled via at least one of a wired coupling. In some embodiment, the apparatus and the device may be operable to be coupled via at least one of a wireless coupling. In some embodiment, the apparatus and the device may be operable to be coupled via at least one of a wired coupling and at least one of a wireless coupling.

[0022] Advantageously, the system as disclosed herein may provide energy efficiency through RRM relaxation method at time intervals using parameters of a LPWUS signal as an offset range, or a threshold.Brief Description of Drawings

[0023] Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0024] Fig. 1 a shows a system which may be operable to include at least one apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 1 b to Fig. 1 d show an example scenario in association with the system of Fig. 1 a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0026] Fig, 2 shows the apparatus of Fig, 1 a in further detail, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] Fig. 3 shows a processing / communication method in association with the system of Fig. 1a, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0028] 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.

[0029] 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

[0030] Hereinafter, the term “a first”, “a second” and the like shall refer to separate technical features or technical functions having substantially the same characteristics and functions in no sequence of importance. For example, when used in the context herein, “ a first time instance” shall refer to an instance when a RRM measurement is performed and “a second time instance" shall refer to another RRM measurement being performed, of which each of the “a first time instance" and “a second time instance” may be performed at different time intervals.

[0031] The term “associated” shall refer to a connection between one or more technical elements, as a result of one element producing technical result of another element, or as a result of one or more elements producing technical result of another element. By way of an example, the phrase “LPWUS region may be operable to be associated with LPWUS coverage”, shall be understood by a skilled practitioner a “LPWUS coverage” refers to an area where the wireless communication network is may be operable to transmit signals to and receive signals from other hardware devices within the wireless communication network and the term “LPWUS region” shall refer to a physical area which corresponds to the network coverage, i.e. the extent of how far the wireless signals is may be operable to transmit at a reasonably good signal strength such that the receiving hardware device(s) is may be operableto detect and receive the wireless signal. Henceforth, the term “associated” used in the context herein is to support the reader in understanding a correlation between a physical object such as a physical area and non-physical object such as exchange of wireless signal within a wireless communication network.

[0032] The present specification discloses apparatus for performing the operations of the methods. Such apparatus may be specially constructed for the required purposes or may comprise a computer or other device selectively activated or reconfigured by a computer program stored in the computer. The algorithms and displays presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computer or other apparatus. Various machines may be used with programs in accordance with the teachings herein. Alternatively, the construction of more specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps may be appropriate. The structure of a computer will appear from the description below.

[0033] In addition, the present specification also implicitly discloses a computer program, in that it would be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the individual steps of the method described herein may be put into effect by computer code. The computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular programming language and implementation thereof. It will be appreciated that a variety of programming languages and coding thereof may be used to implement the teachings of the disclosure contained herein. Moreover, the computer program is not intended to be limited to any particular control flow. There are many other variants of the computer program, which may be operable to use different control flows without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.

[0034] Furthermore, one or more of the steps of the computer program may be performed in parallel rather than sequentially. Such a computer program may be stored on any computer readable medium. The computer readable medium may include storage devices such as magnetic or optical disks, memory chips, or other storage devices suitable for interfacing with a computer. The computer readable medium may also include a hard-wired medium such as exemplified in the Internet system, or wireless medium such as exemplified in the mobile telephone system.The computer program when loaded and executed on such a computer effectively results in an apparatus that implements the steps of the preferred method.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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 may be operable to be introduced to monitor low power wake up signal (LPWUS). A Main Radio (MR) which may be operable to 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)) may be operable to be performed. When no data / signals are being communicated, a UE may turn off the MR or maintain the MR in ultra deep-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 may be operable to 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).

[0037] 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 measurements to at least ascertain whether the UE could be within LPWUS coverage. Additionally, one or more gNBs periodically broadcast a low power wake up reference signal (LPRS) which may be operable to be decoded by a Low Power Wake-Up Receiver (LPWUR).

[0038] 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. However, these efforts may not optimize power reduction and increase power efficiency.

[0039] 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 may be operable to be based on an offset which may facilitate RRM measurement within LPWUS coverage (only) when / if necessary (i.e., facilitate avoidance of unnecessary RRM measurement within LPWUS coverage), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0040] In one specific example, the gNB may be operable to be configured to generate at least one LPWUS Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) Offset range and / or at least one LPWUS Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) Offset range to determine, for example, whether a UE should perform RRM relaxation. The UE within the coverage of LPWUS may be operable to, for example, be configured to perform LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ measurement(s) during / at one or more different time instances based on LPRS. The UE may be operable to be configured to compute a difference between the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value(s) (i.e., based on the LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ measurement(s)) and a LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold. The LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold may be operable to, for example, be generated / configured by the gNB. Based on the difference between a current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold which may be operable to be determined to be within / outside the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ Offset range, the UE may be operable to be configured to perform either RRM measurement or RRM measurement relaxation. For example, a UE may be operable to be configured to perform RRM measurement when the determined difference (i.e., difference between a current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold) is determined to be within the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ Offset range. For example, a UE may be operable to beconfigured to perform RRM measurement relaxation when the determined difference (i.e., difference between a current LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold) is determined to be outside (i.e., not within) the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ Offset range.

[0041] In the above manner, dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement may be operable to be facilitated and power / energy consumption efficiency may be operable to also be possibility facilitated, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Notably, it is appreciable that dynamic / adaptive RRM measurement (may be operable to be based on an offset) UE may be operable to , for example, facilitate RRM measurement (e.g., within LPWUS coverage) (only) when / if necessary (e.g., facilitate avoidance of unnecessary RRM measurement within LPWUS coverage), thus facilitate savings / efficiency in power / energy consumption efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0042] The foregoing will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 hereinafter.

[0043] Referring to Fig. 1 a, a system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The system 100 may for example, be suitable for facilitating energy / power efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] As shown, the system 100 may be operable to 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.

[0045] The apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to be coupled to the device(s) 104. Specifically, the apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to, for example, be coupled to the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0046] In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to be coupled to the communication network 106 and the device(s) 104 may be operable to be coupled to the communication network 106. Coupling may be operable to be by manner of one or both of wired coupling and wireless coupling. The apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to, in general, be configured to communicate with the device(s) 104 via the communication network 106, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0047] The apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to, for example, be associated with / correspond to / include one or more user equipment (UE) which may be operable to carry one or more computers, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, an apparatus 102 may be operable to 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 may be operable to be carried into a vehicle or an electronic module which may be operable to be installed in a vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure) which may be operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with / which may be operable to 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 may be operable to, for example, include / be associated with one or both of RRM measurement and RRM measurement relaxation (i.e., RRM measurement and / or RRM measurement relaxation). In a more specific example, the apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to, in one embodiment, include one or more processors (not shown) which may be operable to 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 may be operable to, 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 to generate one or more output signals. The input signal(s) may be operable to, 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) may be operable to, for example, becommunicated 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.

[0048] The device(s) 104 may be operable to, for example, be associated with / correspond to at least one base station (e.g., at least one gNB). Moreover, the device(s) 104 may be operable to , for example, be configured to carry / be associated with / include one or more computers (e.g., an electronic device / module having computing capabilities) which may be operable to , for example, be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with the base station. The device(s) 104 may be operable to be configured to generate one or more input signals which may be operable to 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.

[0049] The communication network 106 may be operable to, 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 may be operable to be by manner of one or both of wired communication and wireless communication.

[0050] Earlier mentioned, the apparatus(es) 102 may be operable to, 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 may be operable to, 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 anembodiment of the disclosure, in the context of an example scenario with reference to Fig. 1 b to Fig. 1 d, hereinafter.

[0051] Specifically, Fig. 1 b shows an example context for discussion in connection with the example scenario as shown in Fig. 1 c and Fig. 1 d, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] More specifically, in the example context, referring to Fig. 1 b, 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 may be operable to be introduced to monitor low power wake up signal (LPWUS). A Main radio (MR) which may be operable to 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)) may be operable to be performed. When no data / signals are being communicated, a UE may turn off the MR or maintain the MR in ultra deep-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 may be operable to 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 Low power wake up reference signal (LPRS) which may be operable to be decoded by a Low Power Wake-Up Receiver (LPWUR). 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 still lead to energy / power inefficiency.

[0053] 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.

[0054] Referring to Fig. 1 c and Fig. 1 d, in the example scenario, the system 100 may be operable to 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 may be operable to 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) may be operable to be carried in / by a vehicle. Moreover, a device 104 (referable to as a “gNB” hereinafter in the context of this example scenario) may be operable to be coupled to the UE (e.g., via the communication network 106). Furthermore, in the example scenario, there may be operable to be a plurality of UEs (e.g., UE1 and UE2) coupled to a gNB. The UEs may be operable to, for example, be located in various locations / regions within the network 106. The locations / regions may be operable to, 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 may be operable to be considered to be / may be operable to denote a RSRP / RSRQ threshold.

[0055] In one example, as shown, UE1 which is closer (as compared to UE2) in proximity to the gNB may be operable to be considered to be located in a LPWUS region. The LPWUS region may be operable to, for example, be associated with LPWUS coverage. In this regard, UE1 may be operable to 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 may be operable to be considered to be outside of LPWUS coverage but in thePDCCH region. The PDCCH region may be operable to, for example, be associated with PDCCH coverage. In this regard, UE2 may be operable to be considered to be outside LPWUS coverage whereas UE1 may be operable to be considered to be within LPWUS coverage.

[0056] 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 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 may be operable to be in LPWUS coverage, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0057] 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) may be operable to 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, benefit from efficiency in power / energy consumption (e.g., if RRM Measurement relaxation is performed), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0058] Generally, the present disclosure contemplates the possibility of, for example, utilizing LPRS in association with RRM measurement relaxation within the LPWUS coverage, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0059] The UE may be operable to, for example, configured to receive one or more input signal(s) communicable from the gNB. For example, the gNB may be operable to be configured to generate and / or communicate one or more input signals associated with / corresponding to / including LPWUS RSRP offset range and / or LPWUS RSRQ Offset range to the UE. In one embodiment, communicationof the input signal(s) from the gNB to the UE may be operable to, for example, be based on any one of, or any combination of, the following:• In RRCJDLE mode, system information message may be operable to be utilized.• In RRCJNACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, system information message and / or UE specific message may be operable to be utilized.• In RRCJNACTIVE / CONNECTED mode, it is possible that the UE may be operable to be configured to select Offset range which is configured only using UE specific message.

[0060] It is contemplated that the electronic module 200a may be operable to be capable of performing one or more processing tasks in association with adaptive / dynamic / gradual control related processing, in accordance with the embodiments as disclosed. The UE may be operable to , 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) may be operable to 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.

[0061] The above-described advantageous aspect(s) of the system 100 of the present disclosure may be operable to 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 may be operable to also apply analogously (all) the aspect(s) of above-described system 100 of the disclosure.

[0062] The aforementioned apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter.

[0063] 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. In the example implementation 200, the apparatus 102 may be operable to correspond to an electronic module 200a. The electronic module 200a may be operable to, in one example, correspond to a mobile device which may be operable to, 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 may be operable to correspond to an electronic device which may be operable to be installed / mounted in the vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In this regard, the electronic module 200a may be operable to be considered to be carried by the vehicle (e.g., either carried into the vehicle by a user or installed / mounted in the vehicle).

[0064] It is contemplated that the electronic module 200a may be operable to be capable of performing one or more processing tasks in association with RRM related processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0065] The electronic module 200a may be operable to, for example, include a casing 200b. Moreover, the electronic module 200a may be operable to, for example, carry any one of a first module 202, a second module 204, a third module 206, or any combination thereof.

[0066] In one embodiment, the electronic module 200a may be operable to carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and / or a third module 206. In a specific example, the electronic module 200a may be operable to carry a first module 202, a second module 204 and a third module 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0067] In this regard, it is appreciable that, in one embodiment, the casing 200b may be operable to 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.

[0068] The first module 202 may be operable to be coupled to one or both of the second module 204 and the third module 206. The second module 204 may be operable to be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the third module 206. The third module 206 may be operable to be coupled to one or both of the first module 202 and the second module 204. In one example, the first module 202 may be operable to be coupled to the second module 204 and the second module 204 may be operable to 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 may be operable to, 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 may be operable to correspond to one or both of a hardware-based module and a software-based module, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0069] In one example, the first module 202 may be operable to correspond to a hardware-based receiver which may be operable to be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) may be operable to, for example, be communicated from the device(s) 104 (e.g., a gNB), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0070] The second module 204 may be operable to , for example, correspond to a hardware-based processor which may be operable to 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.

[0071] The third module 206 may be operable to correspond to a hardware-based transmitter which may be operable to be configured to communicate one or more output signals from the electronic module 200a. The output signal(s) may be operable to , 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 facilitateefficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency and / or communication efficiency), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Efficiency may be operable to, 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.

[0072] The present disclosure contemplates the possibility that the first and second modules 202 / 204 may be operable to be an integrated software-hardware based module (e.g., an electronic part which may be operable to 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 may be operable to be an integrated software-hardware based module (e.g., an electronic part which may be operable to 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 may be operable to be an integrated hardware module (e.g., a hardware-based transceiver) capable of performing the functions of receiving and transmitting.

[0073] The above-described advantageous aspect(s) of the apparatus 102 of the present disclosure may be operable to 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 may be operable to 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] The processing method 300 may be operable to, for example, be suitable for / capable of facilitating energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0076] The processing method 300 may be operable to 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.

[0077] In one embodiment, the processing method 300 may be operable to include the input step 302. In another embodiment, the processing method 300 may be operable to include the input step 302 and the processing step 304. In another embodiment, the processing method 300 may be operable to include the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306. In yet another embodiment, the processing method 300 may be operable to 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 may be operable to include the input step 302, the processing step 304 and the output step 306. In yet a further additional embodiment, the processing method 300 may be operable to include the processing step 304. In yet another further additional embodiment, the processing method 300 may be operable to 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).

[0078] With regard to the input step 302, one or more input signal(s) may be operable to be received. For example, the input signal(s) may be operable to be communicated from the device(s) 104 and may be operable to be received by an apparatus 102, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0079] With regard to the processing step 304, at least processing task may be operable to be performed in association with the received input signal(s) in amanner so as to generate one or more output signals, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0080] With regard to the output step 306, the output signal(s) may be operable to, for example, be communicated, as an option, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0081] For example, the output signal(s) may be operable to optionally be communicated from the apparatus 102. In a more specific example, the output signal(s) may be operable to 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.

[0082] Fig. 4a and Fig. 4b shows an example context in association with the processing method 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0083] In the example context as shown in Fig. 4a, a gNB may be operable to be configured to generate / define at least one LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ offset range and communicate one or more input signals which may be operable to correspond to / be associated with / include the generated / defined LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ offset range.

[0084] In the example context as shown in Fig. 4b, a UE may be operable to be configured to receive the generated / defined LPWUS RSRP and / or RSRQ offset range. The UE may be operable to be further configured to determine whether the offset between a current LPWUS RSRP and threshold is within the offset range. If within the offset range (i.e., “Yes”), the UE may be operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks associated with RRM measurement. If not within the offset range (i.e., “No”), the UE may be operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks associated with RRM measurement relaxation.

[0085] 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.

[0086] Specifically, when the offset is within the offset range one or more RRM Measurement related processing tasks may be operable to be performed. When the offset falls outside the offset range one or more RRM measurement relaxation related processing tasks may be operable to be performed

[0087] In view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a processing method 300.

[0088] The processing method 300 may be operable to, for example, include an input step 302 and a processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0089] The input step (302) may be operable to include receiving an offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS).

[0090] The processing step (304) may be operable to include any one-off, or any combination of, a measuring step, a primary determining step and a secondary determining step (i.e., a measuring step, a primary determining step and / or a secondary determining step).

[0091] The measuring step may be operable to include measuring one or more values associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance. The primary determining step may be operable to include determining difference between a threshold value and the value(s) associated with the LPWUS. The secondary determining step may be operable to include determining whether the determined difference is within the offset range.

[0092] When the determined difference is determined to be within the offset range, Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement may be operable to be performed. Otherwise, when the determined difference is determined not to be within the offset range, Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement relaxation may be operable to be performed.

[0093] Generally, in this manner, it is appreciable that dynamic / adaptive Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement may be operable to be facilitated in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0094] In one embodiment, the value associated with the LPWUS may be operable to, for example, correspond to at least one parameter associated with one or both of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) (i.e., RSRP and / or RSRQ). In one example, the value associated with the LPWUS may be operable to correspond to at least one parameter associated with either at least one RSRP or at least one RSRQ. In another example, the value associated with the LPWUS may be operable to correspond to a plurality of parameters associated with at least one RSRP and at least one RSRQ.

[0095] In one embodiment, the value(s) associated with the LPWUS being measured during at least one time instance may be operable to, for example, be based on at least one LPRS (low power wake up reference signal).

[0096] In one embodiment, the value(s) associated with the LPWUS may be operable to be measured during a plurality of time instances based on at least one LPRS (low power wake up reference signal).

[0097] In one embodiment, a user equipment (UE) which is within the LPWUS coverage range may be operable to be configured to perform measurement of one or more values associated with the LPWUS. Moreover, the value(s) associated with the LPWUS may be operable to, for example, correspond to one or moreparameters associated with Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and / or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0098] In one embodiment, a mobile user equipment (UE) which is within the LPWUS coverage range may be operable to be configured to perform measurement of one or more values associated with the LPWUS. Moreover, the value(s) associated with the LPWUS may be operable to, for example, correspond to at least one parameter associated with Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and / or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0099] In one embodiment, the mobile user equipment (UE) may be operable to include a memory which may be operable to be configured to store one or more values associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance.

[0100] In one embodiment, the memory may be operable to be configured to store the value(s) associated with the LPWUS during a current time instance (t) and a subsequent time instance (t+1).

[0101] In one embodiment, the mobile UE may be operable to be configured, based the value(s) associated with “t” and the value(s) associated with “t+1”, to determine whether there is improvement. Improvement may be operable to, for example, be determinable based on whether or not the determined difference is within the offset range. When the determined difference is determined not to be within the offset range, RRM measurement relaxation may be operable to be performed.

[0102] In one embodiment, one or more base stations (e.g., corresponding to one or more gNB) may be operable to be configured to perform a communication step of communicating one or more signals associated with the offset range (e.g., the input signal(s)).

[0103] In one embodiment, a User Equipment (UE) may be operable to be configured to perform the input step. The signal(s) (e.g., the input signal(s)) associated with the offset range may be operable to, for example, be communicated from the gNB to the UE.

[0104] The present disclosure further contemplates a computer program (not shown) which may be operable to 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 may be operable to 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.

[0105] 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 may be operable to 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.

[0106] Further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates an apparatus (102) which may be operable to include a first module (202), a second module (204) and / or a third module (206).

[0107] The first module 202 may be operable to be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) may be operable to include at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) associated with an offset range.

[0108] The second module 204 may be operable to 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.

[0109] The third module 206 may be operable to be configured to communicate one or more output signals. The output signal(s) may be operable to, for example, correspond to one or more control signals for facilitating performance of either Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement or Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement relaxation.

[0110] In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 may be operable to correspond to a User Equipment (UE) which may be operable to communicate with a device 104 corresponding to a base station. The base station may be operable to, for example, correspond to a Next generation Node B (gNB) which may be operable to be configured to communicate one or more signals (e.g., input signal(s)) associated with the offset range to the UE.

[0111] Yet further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a system 100 which may be operable to include one or more apparatuses 102 and one or more devices 104. The apparatus(es) 102 and the device(s) 104 may be operable to, for example, be capable of being coupled via wired coupling and / or wireless coupling.

[0112] It should be appreciated that the embodiments described above may be operable to be combined in any manner as appropriate (e.g., one or more embodiments as discussed in the “Detailed Description” section may be operable to be combined with one or more embodiments as described in the “Summary of the Invention” section).

[0113] 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.

[0114] 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) may be operable to, 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.

[0115] 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) may be operable to be possible, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0116] In yet another example, the device(s) 104 (e.g., gNB) may be operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with RRM measurement relaxation.

[0117] In yet a further example, the apparatus(es) 102 (e.g., UE) and / or the device(s) 104 (e.g., gNB) may be operable to be configured to perform one or more processing tasks in association with RRM measurement relaxation.

[0118] 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 notto 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 may be operable to be made, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

Claim(s)1 . A method (300) for optimizing power consumption of a wireless network, the method comprising: receiving (302), by way of a first module (202), at least one input signal comprising an offset range, the offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS); and executing, by way of a second module (204), a processing step (304) for determining a differential value, characterized by that the processing step (304) comprises: measuring at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance; determining a differential value between a threshold value and the at least one value associated with the LPWUS measured; and determining: whether the differential value determined falls within the offset range; or whether the differential value determined falls outside the offset range, and in response to the differential value executed by the second module (204) executing (304), by way of a third module (206), a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement.

2. The method (300) according to claim 1 , characterized by that in response to determining the differential value falling outside the offset range, executing, by way of the third module (206), a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement.3.. The method (300) according to claims 1 -2, the method comprising:determining the at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a first time instance in accordance with at least onelow power wake up reference signal (LPRS).

4. The method (300) according to claims 1 - 3, the method comprising: determining the at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a second time instance in accordance with at least onelow power wake up reference signal (LPRS).

5. The method (300) according to claims 1 - 4, the method comprising: measuring, by way of a user equipment (UE) within a coverage range of the LPWUS, at least one value associated with the LPWUS, wherein the at least one value associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP); at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), or combination thereof.

6. The method (300) according to claims 1 - 4, the method comprising: measuring, by way of a mobile user equipment (UE) within a coverage range of the LPWUS, at least one value associated with the LPWUS, wherein the at least one value associated with the LPWUS corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one of Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP); at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), or combination thereof.

7. The method (300) according to claim 6, the method comprising: obtaining at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a first time instance (t); and storing, by way of a memory of the mobile user equipment (UE), the at least one value associated with the LPWUS obtained during the at least a first time instance (t).

8. The method (300) in according to claim 1 - 7, the method comprising: obtaining at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least a second time instance (t+1); and storing, by way of the memory of the mobile user equipment (UE), the at least one value associated with the LPWUS obtained during the at least a second time instance (t+1).

9. The method (300) according to claims 1 - 8, wherein the processing step (304) further comprises: comparing the at least one value associated with (t) with the at least one value associated with (t+1); determining whether the mobile UE is within the coverage range; or combination thereof.

10. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising: performing, by way of at least one base station, a communication step of communicating at least one signal associated with the offset range.

11. The processing method (300) according to claim 10, wherein at least one base station is at least one Next Generation Node B (gNB).

12. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the step of receiving (302) at least one input signal comprising an offset range, the offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) is executable by a User Equipment (UE).

13. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the offset range associated with at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) received has a signal value corresponding to a reference signal,the reference signal comprising at least one of a Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP).

14. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the offset range associated with the at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) received has a signal value corresponding to a reference signal, the reference signal comprising at least one of Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

15. The method (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one LPWUS comprises a signal value corresponding to at least one parameter associated with at least one Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP); and at least one Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), or combination thereof.

16. 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 the input step (302) and the processing step (304) according to the method (300) of any of the preceding claims.

17. 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 (302) and the processing step (304) according to the method (300) of any of the preceding claims.

18. An apparatus (102) comprising: a first module (202) may be operable to receive at least one input signal, the input signal comprising at least one low power wake up signal (LPWUS) associated with an offset range;a second module (204) may be operable to retrieve and execute a processing step (304) to determine a differential value, characterized in that the second module (204) is may be operable to : measure at least one value associated with the LPWUS during at least one time instance; determine a differential value between a threshold value and the at least one value associated with the LPWUS measured; and determine, whether the differential value determined falls within the offset range; or whether the differential value determined falls outside the offset range, and a third module (206) may be operable to generate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal to execute a Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurement in response to the differential value determined.

19. The apparatus (102) according to claim 18, characterized in that the apparatus (102) comprises a User Equipment (UE) in wireless communication with a device (104) comprising to a base station, wherein the base station is a Next generation Node B (gNB) may be operable to wirelessly communicate at least one signal associated with the offset range to the UE.

20. A system (100) comprising: at least one apparatus (102) according to any of claims 18 and 19; and at least one device (104) according to any of claims 18 and 19, wherein the apparatus (102) and the device (104) are capable of being coupled via at least one of wired coupling; at least one wireless coupling, or combination thereof.

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