System and apparatus suitable for energy savings in a network and a method in association thereto

Abstract

System (100), apparatus (102) and a method (300) suitable for energy savings in a network are disclosed. The method (300) includes an input step (302) which comprises receiving at least one input signal associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; and a processing step (304) which comprises at least one of: determining whether a current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; initiating a timer based on the at least one timer value if the current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; determining a count value based on a plurality of signals within the at least one timer value; and determining whether the count value is within the at least one count limit upon an expiration of the timer; wherein radio is enabled if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit and radio is disabled if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

Description

SYSTEM AND APPARATUS SUITABLE FOR ENERGY SAVINGS IN A NETWORK AND A METHOD IN ASSOCIATION THERETOField Of Invention

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to one or both of a system and an apparatus suitable for energy savings in a network in association with, for example, a User Equipment (UE) usable for communication. The present disclosure further relates a method which can be associated with the system and / or the apparatus.Background

[0002] Generally, energy efficiency and energy savings would be helpful or 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.

[0003] Typically, conventional techniques such as a Discontinuous Reception (DRX) mechanism and communication of Wake-Up Signals (WUS) can be utilized to assist in facilitating energy efficiency and energy savings. The present disclosure contemplates that conventional techniques (e.g., DRX and / or WUS) may not facilitate efficiency and energy savings in an optimal manner.

[0004] 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 energy efficiency and energy savings.Summary of the Invention

[0005] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method comprising: an input step which comprises receiving at least one input signal associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; and a processing step (304) which comprises at least one of: determining whether a current signalvalue is within the at least one signal offset value; initiating a timer based on the at least one timer value if the current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; determining a count value based on a plurality of signals within the at least one timer value; and determining whether the count value is within the at least one count limit upon an expiration of the timer; wherein radio is enabled if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit and radio is disabled if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

[0006] Advantageously, the method as described herein can provide enhanced energy savings as a User Equipment (UE) (or user device) may not have to switch frequently between main radio (MR) and low power wake up receiver (LPWUR). A failsafe buffer can also be provided when low power wake up signal (LPWUS) Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) or Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ) threshold is crossed without the UE being outside the coverage of LPWUS.

[0007] In an embodiment, the at least one signal offset value correspond to at least one value associable with Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

[0008] In an embodiment, the processing step further comprises discarding the timer if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit.

[0009] In an embodiment, the processing step further comprises monitoring LPWUS signals if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

[0010] In an embodiment, the processing step further comprises stopping the timer when the count value exceeds a maximum counter limit.

[0011] In an embodiment, at least one base station is configured to: pre-determine the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; and communicate the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit.

[0012] In an embodiment, communicating the mapping table comprises communicating via a system information message broadcast.

[0013] In an embodiment, the at least one base station corresponds to at least one Next Generation Node B (gNB).

[0014] In an embodiment, a User Equipment (UE) is configured to perform the input step and the processing step, and wherein the mapping table is communicable from the gNB to the UE.

[0015] In an embodiment, the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit is received by the UE from the gNB via at least one of: System Information Block (SIB) or UE specific message.

[0016] In an embodiment, there is provided 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 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.

[0017] In an embodiment, there is provided 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 method of the first aspect.

[0018] In accordance with a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided an apparatus comprising: a first module configured to receive at least one input signal associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; a second moduleconfigured to at least one of process and facilitate the processing step according to the method of the first aspect to generate at least one output signal; and a third module configured to communicate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal for enabling radio if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit and disabling radio if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

[0019] In an embodiment, the apparatus can correspond to a User Equipment (UE) which can communicate with a device corresponding to a base station. The base station can, for example, correspond to a Next generation Node B (gNB) which can be configured to communicate one or more signals (e.g., input signal(s)) to the UE.

[0020] In an embodiment, there is provided a system comprising 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.

[0021] Advantageously, the system can allow UEs (or user devices) outside the LPWUS coverage temporarily to have additional energy savings by utilizing the timer before turning on the MR.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0023] Fig. 1A shows a schematic diagram illustrating a system suitable for energy savings in a network which can include at least one apparatus, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0024] Fig. 1 B to Fig. 1 E show example scenarios in association with the system of Fig. 1 A, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 2 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the apparatus of Fig. 1A in further detail, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 3 shows a method in association with the system of Fig. 1A, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B show schematic diagrams illustrating example scenarios in association with the method of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.Detailed Description

[0028] The detailed description set forth below, with reference to annexed drawings, is intended as a description of various configurations and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the concepts described herein may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the various concepts. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these concepts may be practiced without these specific details. In particular, although terminology from 3GPP 5G NR may be used in this disclosure to exemplify embodiments herein, this should not be seen as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0029] In addition, some of the embodiments contemplated herein will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other embodiments, however, are contained within the scope of the subject matter disclosed herein, the disclosed subject matter should not be construed as limited to only the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example to convey the scope of the subject matter to those skilled in the art.

[0030] Generally, all terms used herein are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the relevant technical field, unless a different meaning is clearly given and / or is implied from the context in which it is used. All references to a / an / the element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc. are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of the element, apparatus, component, means, step,etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any methods disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless a step is explicitly described as following or preceding another step and / or where it is implicit that a step must follow or precede another step. Any feature of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be applied to any other embodiment, wherever appropriate. Likewise, any advantage of any of the embodiments may apply to any other embodiments, and vice versa. Other objectives, features and advantages of the enclosed embodiments will be apparent from the following description.

[0031] In some embodiments, the non-limiting term User Equipment (UE) or wireless device or user device may be used and may refer to any type of wireless device communicating with a network node and / or with another UE in a cellular or mobile communication system. Examples of UE are target device, device-to-device (D2D) UE, machine type UE or UE capable of machine to machine (M2M) communication, PDA, PAD, Tablet, mobile terminals, smart phone, laptop embedded equipped (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, UE category Ml, UE category M2, ProSe UE, V2V UE, V2X UE, etc.

[0032] In some embodiments, a more general term “network node” may be used and may correspond to any type of radio network node or any network node, which communicates with a User Equipment (directly or via another node) and / or with another network node. Examples of network nodes are NodeB, MeNB, ENB, a network node belonging to MCG or SCG, base station (BS), multi-standard radio (MSR) radio node such as MSR BS, eNodeB, gNodeB, network controller, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), relay, donor node controlling relay, base transceiver station (BTS), access point (AP), transmission points, transmission nodes, RRU, RRH, nodes in distributed antenna system (DAS), core network node (e.g. Mobile Switching Center (MSC), Mobility Management Entity (MME), etc), Operations & Maintenance (O&M), Operations Support System (OSS), Self Optimized Network (SON), positioning node (e.g. Evolved- Serving Mobile Location Centre (E-SMLC)), Minimization of Drive Tests (MDT), test equipment (physical node or software), etc.

[0033] Additionally, terminologies such as base station / gNodeB and UE should be considered non-limiting and do in particular not imply a certain hierarchical relation between the two; in general, “gNodeB” could be considered as device 1 and “UE” could be considered as device 2 and these two devices communicate with each other over some radio channel. And in the following the transmitter or receiver could be either gNodeB (gNB), or UE.

[0034] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics of the embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner. In the following description, numerous specific details are provided, such as examples of programming, software modules, user selections, network transactions, database queries, database structures, hardware modules, hardware circuits, hardware chips, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of an embodiment. Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, but mean “one or more but not all embodiments” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including,” “comprising,” “having,” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to,” unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a,” “an,” and “the” also refer to “one or more” unless expressly specified otherwise.

[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] Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates the possibility of optimization for Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) in connection with 3GPP Release 18 (and beyond) standard(s). A WuS (Wake-up Signal) mechanism can be introduced to improve energy efficiency of the UE (User Equipment). The UE will state in sleep mode and switches off the main radio, until a WuS signal is detected at the secondary radio (WuS receiver). Once the WuS receiver detects a WuS signal, the main radio is triggered to switch on. A LPWuS receiver can be a low complex and low power consuming component of a UE while the main radio cane be a high energy consuming component of the UE. The main radio is switched off (sleep mode) as much as possible to reduce the energy consumption at the UE.

[0037] The present disclosure contemplates that extended discontinuous reception, eDRX, has been introduced in 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) wireless communication systems to reduce energy consumption. In eDRX, the UE periodically goes to sleep for an asleep duration during which a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) is not monitored before waking up for an awake duration to monitor the PDCCH for possible downlink data. The amount of energy that can be saved depends on how long and how often the UE remains asleep. The longer the UE remains asleep, the greater the amount of energy saved. However, increasing the asleep duration comes with increased latency, which may not be suitable for latency-critical use cases.

[0038] The present disclosure also contemplates that current UEs may need to periodically wake up once per eDRX cycle, which dominates the energy consumption in periods with no signaling or data traffic. If UEs were able to wake up only when they are triggered, e.g., paging, energy consumption could be dramatically reduced. This can be achieved by providing the UE with both a main radio (MR) unit, and a low power wake-up receiver (LPWUR). The MR unit may correspond to a 5G NR wireless communication unit, and the LPWUR may correspond to a wireless communication unit that is used to monitor a wake-up signal with low power consumption. Once the wake-up signal is detected, theLPWUR can trigger the MR unit which can transition from a low power state to an active state.

[0039] The present disclosure further contemplates that the active state may correspond to any state in which the MR unit can exchange data with a radio access network, RAN, of the wireless communication system without being triggered by the LPWUR. Hence, a MR unit that is awake is in the active state. Also, a MR unit that is asleep but wakes-up periodically (e.g., eDRX) without being triggered by a LPWUR is also in the active state. The low power state may correspond to a state in which the MR unit cannot exchange data with the RAN without being triggered by the LPWUR. For example, the low power state corresponds to the MR unit being always asleep. However, since the MR unit does not have to wake-up periodically in the low power state, the MR unit may be even more deeply asleep than in current UEs and may even be turned off since the LPWUR can be used to turn the MR unit on. “Low power” state may indicate that the mean power consumption of the MR unit in the low power state is lower than (and preferably significantly lower than, e.g., ten times or even a hundred times lower than) the mean power consumption of the MR unit in the active state.

[0040] The present disclosure contemplates that the “low power” wake-up receiver can indicate that the LPWUR is used for receiving a wake-up signal while the MR unit is in the low power state. The monitoring of the wake-up signal can be done with a low power consumption, and the mean power consumption of the LPWUR should therefore be lower than (and preferably significantly lower than, e.g., ten times or even a hundred times lower than) the mean power consumption of the MR unit when it is awake.

[0041] Hence, the present disclosure contemplates that the energy consumption is reduced by placing the MR unit in the low power state (e.g., turned off). The MR unit is not required to wake-up periodically and may wake-up only when triggered by the LPWUR. Since the LPWUR may monitor the wake-up signal continuously, or at least frequently, the MR unit can be awakened by the LPWUR at any time, thereby reducing latency compared to e.g., eDRX.

[0042] The present disclosure generally contemplates that the LPWUS can be monitored and received by a separated or integrated receiver, for example a Low Power Wake Up Receiver (LPWUR). It is contemplated that coverage of the LPWUS can be lesser than the physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) coverage. Moreover, an offset value can be defined or set in connection with a LPWUS value which can be associated with or include one or both of Reference Signal Received Power RSRP (i.e., referable to as “LPWUS RSRP value” and / or “LPWUS RSRP”) and Reference Signal Received Quality RSRQ (i.e., referable to as “LPWUS RSRQ value” and / or “LPWUS RSRQ”).

[0043] The present disclosure contemplates that it may be helpful to consider some form of dynamic / adaptive / gradual configuration / determination strategy which will aid in power / energy consumption efficiency and energy savings at the UE (or user device), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] The present disclosure thus contemplates the possibility of a method for enhanced energy savings at UE for temporary poor coverage conditions. Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates that the gNB may configure a mapping table including an LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset value together with a counter for the UE to determine when to enable the main radio.

[0045] In the above manner, there can be enhanced energy savings as the UE may not have to switch frequently between MR and LPWUR. Furthermore, a failsafe buffer can be provided for the cases when LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold is crossed without the UE actually being outside the coverage of LPWUS. Power and energy consumption efficiency can therefore be possibly facilitated, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0046] The foregoing will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 hereinafter.

[0047] 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 energy savings andfacilitating energy / power efficiency in a network, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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 adaptive / dynamic / gradual control, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. For example, dynamic / adaptive / gradual control can be based on, for example, multiple LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset values. 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 dynamic / adaptive / gradual control (e.g., based on multiple LPWUS RSRP offset values and / or LPWUS RSRQ offset values), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In one embodiment, the apparatus(es) 102 can, forexample, 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) 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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 dynamic / adaptive / gradual control (e.g., based on multiple LPWUS RSRP offset values and / or LPWUS RSRQ offset values) 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) tothe 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. 1 B to Fig. 1 D, hereinafter.

[0055] Fig. 1 B to 1 E show example scenarios in association with the system of Fig. 1A, according to an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, Fig. 1 B and Fig. 1 C show examples of different embodiments of a Wake-up Signal (WuS) transmission. The example embodiment of Fig. 1 B can be a WuS transmission framework for a wireless communication network, for example IEEE 802.11 ba. In this embodiment, a wakeup pattern (WUP) may be transmitted to one or more user devices or User Equipment (UE), which can be for example, an Internet-of-Things (loT) device. Each of the user device (or loT device) can be in communication with a server or a base station (e.g. a gNB) via Wifi and may include a wake-up receiver (WuRx) or a Low- power wake-up receiver (LPWUR) that can be turned on. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the loT device (or UE or user device) that is receiving the WUP can turn on its main radio while the loT device (or UE or user device) that is not receiving the WUP can have its main radio turned off.

[0056] In an implementation, the WuRx may be a front-end device with low power active or passive device to trigger the Radio Frequency (RF) and baseband processors of a User Equipment (UE) receiver. In an example embodiment, the wake-up receiver (WuRx) can be a low-complexity and low-cost device in addition to the new radio (NR) receiver. The wake-up signal (WuS) or low power wake-up signal (LPWUS) can be a waveform detected by the wakeup receiver (WuRx) such that the wakeup signal (WuS) or low power wake-up signal (LPWUS) can be operated at the same or different frequency band of the NR operation band, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0057] The example embodiment of Fig. 1 C can be a WuS transmission framework for another wireless communication network, for example 3GPP. In this embodiment, a low-power wake-up transmitter (WuTx) may be in communication with a user device or UE (e.g. loT device) and sends the WuS to the WuRx of the user device(or UE). The WuTx may be installed in a server or a base station (e.g. gNB) or may also be installed in another user device or UE (e.g. loT device).

[0058] One possibility to address the issue of energy / power efficiency is utilization of a separated or 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 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 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).

[0059] The present disclosure contemplates that energy / power saving (i.e., as facilitated by the LPWUR) may possibly be restricted depending on whether the UE can detect an RSRP / RSRQ to be within a certain defined / set threshold or offset value. Accordingly, the present disclosure contemplates that energy / power efficiency may possibly not be facilitated in an optimal / efficient manner due to such restriction. Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates that it may be possible for one or more LPWUS signals to be detected even in a situation where the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ is outside a set / defined threshold or offset value, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Moreover, a UE may, for example, be configured to turn on the MR if a LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ count value is determined to be above a predetermined count limit.

[0060] The present disclosure contemplates, 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, that it may be helpful to consider some form ofdynamic / adaptive / gradual configuration / determination strategy which will aid in power / energy consumption efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. The dynamic / adaptive / gradual control configuration / determination strategy can, for example, be in relation to dynamic / adaptive / gradual control based on multiple LPWUS offset values, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] Referring to Fig. 1 D and Fig. 1 E, in the example scenario, the system 100 can be suitable for facilitating dynamic / adaptive / gradual control, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. In a more specific example, the system 100 can be suitable for facilitating dynamic / adaptive / gradual control based on multiple LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset values 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 or can denote a RSRP / RSRQ threshold (e.g., which can be indicative of the aforementioned threshold which can be defined or set in connection with the LPWUS RSRP).

[0062] In one example, as shown in Fig. 1 D, 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 outside of LPWUS coverage but in the PDCCH region. The PDCCH region can, for example, be associated with PDCCH coverage. In this regard, UE2 can be considered to beoutside LPWUS coverage whereas UE1 can be considered to be within LPWUS coverage.

[0063] Appreciably, coverage of the LPWUS region can be considered to be less than that of the PDCCH region. In this regard, a LPWUR which is monitoring a LPWUS may not always be able to meet the RSRP / RSRQ threshold or range configured by the network (e.g., gNB) for LPWUS detection, even when it (e.g., a LPWUR carried by UE2) is within the PDCCH coverage of the serving cell.

[0064] The RSRP threshold (and / or RSRQ threshold) value can, for example, be defined / set by the network (e.g., gNB) for the UE to turn on the MR and disable the LPWUR. The present disclosure contemplates that this may possibly not facilitate power / energy saving (e.g., with respect to a UE) in an optimal / efficient manner. For example, a mobile UE (e.g., UE2) which turns on the MR when it is outside the LPWUS coverage temporarily but in the PDCCH coverage, may not be very energy efficient.

[0065] Fig. 1 E shows another example scenario whereby the main radio activation or deactivation is based on LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold or offset value. In this case, it is possible the UE (e.g. UE1 ) may not be moving or mobile in the LPWUS coverage area and the main radio is turned on immediately. The UEs which have gone outside the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold or region permanently may utilize this but a UE which has gone out temporarily (e.g. UE2) for a short time period and returns back to LPWUS coverage may not benefit from LPWUS.

[0066] The present disclosure contemplates it may be beneficial to have techniques or mechanisms to enhance coverage performance of LPWUS. In particular, the potential gains available as well as drawback(s) of the technique(s) or mechanisms(s), e.g. system overhead, increased complexity network energy consumption etc., can be further evaluated to identify potential issues and corresponding solutions when LPWUS coverage is insufficient. In addition, there can be fallback mechanisms where the Main Radio (MR) switches to legacy operation incase the channel condition of LPWUS is insufficient, e.g. below or outside a predefined threshold or range.

[0067] The present disclosure further contemplates that it may be helpful to consider some form of dynamic / adaptive / gradual configuration / determination strategy which will aid in power / energy consumption efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates the possibility of how to perform enhanced energy savings at UE using LPWUS for temporary poor coverage conditions. The dynamic / adaptive / gradual control configuration / determination strategy can, for example, be in relation to dynamic / adaptive / gradual control based on multiple LPWUS offset values, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0068] 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.

[0069] The aforementioned apparatus(es) 102 will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter.

[0070] 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.

[0071] 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).

[0072] It is contemplated that the electronic module 200a can be capable of performing one or more processing tasks in association with adaptive / dynamic / gradual control related processing, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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 inputsignal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the device(s) 104 (e.g., a gNB), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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 with the aforementioned dynamic / adaptive / gradual control configuration / determination strategy so as to facilitate efficiency (e.g., power / energy efficiency and / or communication efficiency), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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, allbelow 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.

[0082] Referring to Fig. 3, a method (also referable to as a processing method) in association with the system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0083] The method 300 can, for example, be suitable for / capable of facilitating energy efficiency, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] 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.

[0087] The input step 302 can include receiving at least one input signal associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit (or counter limit). In an embodiment, the input signal(s) may be generated by the device 104 and transmitted from the device 104 to the apparatus 102. Alternatively, the input signal(s) may be generated and received by the apparatus 102 to advance to the processing step 304. For example, the input signal(s) may be generated by a transmitting UE (or user device) and received by a receiving UE (or user device).

[0088] 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.

[0089] The processing step 304 may include at least one of: determining whether a current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; initiating a timer based on the at least one timer value if the current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; determining a count value based on a plurality of signals within the at least one timer value; and determining whether the count value is within the at least one count limit upon an expiration of the timer. If the count value is greater than the at least one count limit, radio is enabled. On the other hand, if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit, radio is disabled. The at least one signal region may correspond to at least one value associable with Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). The count limit (or counter limit) can be the maximum number of times the UE LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value is above the threshold.

[0090] The processing step 304 may further include discarding the timer if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit; monitoring LPWUS signals if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit; and stopping the timer when the count value exceeds a maximum counter limit.

[0091] The processing step 304 may also include pre-determining the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; and communicating the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit, where communicating the mapping table comprises communicating via a system information message broadcast.

[0092] The at least one base station may correspond to at least one Next Generation Node B (gNB) and a User Equipment (UE) may be configured to perform the input step 302 and the processing step 304, and the mapping table is communicable from the gNB to the UE. The mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal region and at least one timer value is received by the UE from the gNB via at least one of: System Information Block (SIB) or UE specific message.

[0093] In an embodiment, the gNB may configure a mapping between LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset value and timer along with a counter limit for the UE to decide when to turn on the MR and the mapping may be broadcasted through system information message. The UE may determine associated timer value (provided by the gNB as a mapping table) based on the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset value. The UE may start the timer when it measures the first LPWUS Reference signal below a configured LPWUS threshold and stops the timer when the counter reaches its maximum limit. The UE then counts the number of times the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value is below the threshold. If the count value is above the count limit, the timer is discarded and the UE switches on the main radio. If the count value is below the count limit, the UE continues monitoring the LPWUS. In this way, the UEs that are outside the LPWUS coverage temporarily can achieve additional energy savings by utilizing the timer before turning on the MR. The count limit (or counter limit) can be the maximum number of times the UE LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value is above the threshold.

[0094] In an example embodiment as shown in Table 1 below, if the UE has a offset of 01 , it may set the timer value to T1. The UE may then calculate the count values while the timer is running. If the count value is above the count limit, the UE discardsthe timer and switches on the main radio. Otherwise, the UE continues to monitor the LPWUS. An increase in count value can describe the increase in the difference between the measured LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value and the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ threshold.Table 1

[0095] 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.

[0096] 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 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 invention.

[0097] 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 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 thecomputer, cause the computer to carry out the input step 302 and / or the processing step 304, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0098] Further in view of the foregoing, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates an apparatus 102 suitable for energy saving in a network which can include a first module 202, a second module 204 and / or a third module 206.

[0099] The first module 202 can be configured to receive one or more input signals. The input signal(s) can, for example, be associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal region and at least one timer value.

[0100] The second module 204 can be configured to process and / or facilitate processing of the input signal(s) according to the method 300 as discussed earlier to generate one or more output signals.

[0101] The third module 206 can be configured to communicate one or more output signals. The output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to one or more control signals for enabling radio if the average signal value is not within the at least one signal region and disabling radio if the average signal value is within the at least one signal region.

[0102] In one embodiment, the apparatus 102 can correspond to a User Equipment (UE) which can communicate with a device 104 corresponding to a base station. The base station can, for example, correspond to a Next generation Node B (gNB) which can be configured to communicate one or more signals (e.g., input signal(s)) to the UE.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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).

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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 invention. 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 invention.

[0107] Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B show schematic diagrams illustrating example scenarios in association with the method 300, in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0108] In the example context as shown in Fig. 4A, the gNB (or base station) is configured to provide a mapping table indicative of a mapping between LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset value, a timer value and a counter limit. The gNB (or base station) may then communicate this mapping table to the UE (or user device).

[0109] In the example context as shown in Fig. 4B, the UE (or user device) is configured to receive the mapping table and set the timer based on the received LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ offset value. The UE (or user device) may then count when the LPWUS RSRP / RSRQ value is below the threshold value. The UE then determines if the count value during the timer period is above the counter limit whenthe timer expires. If the count value is more than the counter limit, the UE (or user device) discards the timer and turns on the main radio. If the count value is less than or equal to the counter limit, the UE (or user device) continues monitoring the LPWUS signals.

[0110] 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.Abbreviations:BWP Bandwidth partCBG Code block groupCLI Cross Link InterferenceCP Cyclic prefixCPU CSI processing unitCQI Channel quality indicatorCRB Common resource blockCRC Cyclic redundancy checkCRI CSI-RS Resource IndicatorCSI Channel state informationCSI-RS Channel state information reference signalCSI-RSRP CSI reference signal received powerCSI-RSRQ CSI reference signal received qualityCSI-SINR CSI signal-to-noise and interference ratioCW CodewordDCI Downlink control informationDL DownlinkDM-RS Demodulation reference signalsDRX Discontinuous ReceptionEPRE Energy per resource elementIAB-MT Integrated Access and Backhaul - Mobile TerminalL1-RSRP Layer 1 reference signal received powerLI Layer IndicatorLP-WUR Low power wake up receiverLP-WUS Low power wake up signalMCS Modulation and coding schemeMR Main receiverPDCCH Physical Downlink Control ChannelPDSCH Physical downlink shared channelPMI Precoding Matrix IndicatorPRB Physical resource blockPRG Precoding resource block groupPRS Positioning reference signal PSS Primary Synchronisation signal PT-RS Phase-tracking reference signal PUCCH Physical uplink control channel QCL Quasi co-location RB Resource block RBG Resource block group Rl Rank Indicator RIV Resource indicator value RS Reference signal RSRP Reference Signal Received Power RSRQ Reference Signal Received QualitySCI Sidelink control information SLIV Start and length indicator value SR Scheduling Request SRS Sounding reference signal SS Synchronisation signal SS-RSRP SS reference signal received power SS-RSRQ SS reference signal received quality SSS Secondary Synchronisation signal SS-SINR SS signal-to-noise and interference ratioTB Transport Block TCI Transmission Configuration Indicator TDM Time division multiplexing UE User equipment UL Uplink

Claims

Claim(s)1 . A method (300) comprising: an input step (302) which comprises receiving at least one input signal associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; and a processing step (304) which comprises at least one of: determining whether a current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; initiating a timer based on the at least one timer value if the current signal value is within the at least one signal offset value; determining a count value based on a plurality of signals within the at least one timer value; and determining whether the count value is within the at least one count limit upon an expiration of the timer; wherein radio is enabled if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit and radio is disabled if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

2. The method (300) according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one signal offset value correspond to at least one value associable with Low Power Wake Up Signal (LPWUS) Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ).

3. The method (300) according to claim 1 , wherein the processing step (304) further comprises discarding the timer if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit.

4. The method (300) according to claim 1 , wherein the processing step (304) further comprises monitoring LPWUS signals if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

5. The method (300) according to claim 1 , wherein the processing step (304) further comprises stopping the timer when the count value exceeds a maximum counter limit.

6. The method (300) according to claim 1 , wherein at least one base station is configured to: pre-determine the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; and communicate the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit.

7. The method (300) according to claim 6, wherein communicating the mapping table comprises communicating via a system information message broadcast.

8. The method (300) according to claim 6, wherein the at least one base station corresponds to at least one Next Generation Node B (gNB).

9. The method (300) according to claim 8, wherein a User Equipment (UE) is configured to perform the input step (302) and the processing step (304), and wherein the mapping table is communicable from the gNB to the UE.

10. The method (300) according to claim 9, wherein the mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit is received by the UE from the gNB via at least one of: System Information Block (SIB) or UE specific message.

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

12. A computer readable storage medium having data stored therein representing software executable by a computer, the software including instructions, whenexecuted by the computer, to carry out at least one of the input step (302) and the processing step (304) according to the method (300) of claims 1-10.

13. An apparatus (102) comprising: a first module (202) configured to receive at least one input signal associated with a mapping table indicative of mapping between at least one signal offset value, at least one timer value and at least one count limit; a second module (204) configured to at least one of process and facilitate the processing step (304) according to the method (300) of claim 1 to claim 10 to generate at least one output signal; and a third module (206) configured to communicate at least one output signal, wherein the output signal corresponds to a control signal for enabling radio if the count value is greater than the at least one count limit and disabling radio if the count value is less than or equal to the at least one count limit.

14. The apparatus (102) according to claim 13, wherein the apparatus (102) corresponds to a User Equipment (UE) communicable with a device (104) corresponding to a base station, and wherein the base station corresponds to a Next generation Node B (gNB) configured to communicate the at least one input signal to the UE.

15. A system (100) comprising: at least one apparatus (102) according to any of claims 13 and 14; and at least one device (104) according to claim 14, 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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