Wireless access network node, core network node, radio terminal, and methods for same

Abstract

A wireless access network node according to the present invention transmits information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX), cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both to a core network. The present invention can thereby contribute to solving problems related to cell DTX or cell DRX.

Description

Radio access network node, core network node, radio terminal, and methods thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wireless communication networks, and more particularly to various techniques that directly or indirectly contribute to improving network energy saving.

[0002] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP®) specifies UE positioning (see, for example, Non-Patent Documents 1-4). UE positioning includes a UE locating its own location and a Radio Access Network (RAN) node (e.g., gNB or eNB) locating the UE's location. UE positioning methods include not only methods using Long Term Evolution (LTE) signals or Fifth Generation (5G) New Radio (NR) signals, but also various positioning methods such as network-assisted Global Navigation Satellites System (GNSS) positioning, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) positioning, and Bluetooth® positioning.

[0003] UE positioning based on NR downlink positioning signals includes Downlink Angle-of-Departure (DL-AoD) and Downlink Time Difference of Arrival (DL-TDOA). The NR downlink positioning signals used in these UE positioning include a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS), sometimes referred to as Downlink PRS (DL-PRS).

[0004] UE positioning based on NR uplink positioning signals includes Uplink Time Difference of Arrival (UL-TDOA) and Uplink Angle-of-Arrival (UL-AoA). NR uplink positioning signals used for UE positioning include the Positioning Sounding Reference Signal (SRS). Positioning SRS is sometimes called SRS for positioning or Uplink SRS (UL-SRS).

[0005] Currently, 3GPP is discussing network energy saving for 3GPP Release 18 (see, for example, non-patent documents 5-7). Network energy saving is abbreviated as NES. As described in non-patent documents 5 and 6, there are various techniques for improving network energy saving, including cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and cell discontinuous reception (DRX). In one example, the network may provide a mechanism to notify UEs in a cell whether the cell is in an inactive state. During cell DTX or cell DRX, i.e., while the cell is in an inactive state, the cell may not transmit or receive, or may maintain only limited transmission or reception. For example, the cell does not need to transmit or receive some periodic signals and channels, such as cell common channels and signals and UE-specific signals and channels.

[0006] Hereinafter, the term "cell DTX / DRX" may be used to refer to either or both of cell DTX and cell DRX. Although the definition of the term cell DTX / DRX is unclear at present, the terms "cell DTX active time," "cell DTX inactive time," "cell DRX active time," and "cell DRX inactive (inactive or non-active) time" are used in this specification to refer to cell DTX / DRX. Cell DTX / DRX active time refers to the duration, time, or period during which a cell is in an active state and can transmit and receive all necessary cell common channels and signals and UE-specific signals and channels. In contrast, cell DTX / DRX inactive time refers to the duration, time, or period during which a cell is in an inactive state due to NES and does not transmit or receive, or can maintain only limited transmission or reception. The cell DTX / DRX active time may be referred to as a cell DTX / DRX active period or duration, or as a cell DTX / DRX on duration, time, or period. The cell DTX / DRX inactive time may be referred to as a cell DTX / DRX inactive period or duration, or as a cell DTX / DRX off duration, time, or period.

[0007] Chapter 3 of Non-Patent Document 7 states that one of the agreements reached at the 114th 3GPP RAN1 meeting is that the SRS for uplink positioning is not affected by cell DRX operation. This agreement can be understood to mean that cell DRX does not apply to the Positioning SRS. In other words, in a cell where cell DRX is activated, the UE is expected to transmit the Positioning SRS even during cell DRX inactive time. On the other hand, whether cell DTX applies to the DL-PRS, in other words, whether the UE is expected to receive or process the PRS during cell DTX inactive time, is still under discussion and has not yet been agreed upon.

[0008] 3GPP TS 38.305 V17.5.0 (2023-06) "3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network; NG Radio Access Network (NG-RAN); Stage 2 functional specification of User Equipment (UE) positioning in NG-RAN (Release 17)", June 2023 3GPP TS 23.273 V18.2.0 (2023-06) "3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Services and System Aspects; 5G System (5GS) Location Services (LCS); Stage 2 (Release 18)", June 2023 3GPP TS 38.455 V17.5.0 (2023-06) "3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network; NG-RAN; NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) (Release 17)", June 2023 3GPP TS 37.355 V17.5.0 (2023-06) "3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network; LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) (Release 17)", June 2023 Huawei, "New WID: Network energy savings for NR", RP-223540, 3GPP TSG RAN Meeting #98-e, December 12-16, 2022 3GPP TR 38.864 V18.1.0 (2023-03) "3rd Generation Partnership Project; Technical Specification Group Radio Access Network; Study on network energy savings for NR (Release 18)", March 2023 Intel Corporation, "Discussion summary #5 for enhancements on cell DTX / DRX mechanism", R1-2308620, 3GPP TSG RAN WG1 Meeting #114, Toulouse, France, August 21-25, 2023.

[0009] The inventors have studied cell DTX / DRX and found various problems. Some of the problems identified by the inventors relate to the transmission of physical signals or channels related to UE positioning during cell DTX / DRX inactive time. For example, when a UE requests an emergency call or emergency service during cell DTX inactive time, the UE may need to perform UE positioning using DL-PRS. Considering such cases, it may be preferable that whether to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time can be configured or requested by a core network node related to UE positioning or by the UE. Similarly, it may be preferable that whether to continue Positioning SRS transmission even during cell DRX inactive time can be configured or requested by a core network node related to UE positioning or by the UE. In these cases, it is not clear how to control the transmission of downlink or uplink positioning signals (e.g., DL-PRS or Positioning SRS) during cell DTX / DRX inactive time. Also, it is not clear how the core network (eg, location server, Location Management Function (LMF)) knows the cell DTX / DRX setting.

[0010] In addition to positioning signals (e.g., DL-PRS or Positioning SRS), there may be other physical signals or channels for which it is preferable to be able to set or change whether or not to continue transmitting during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0011] One of the problems solved by the inventors is to provide an improvement that contributes to enabling a core network (e.g., location server, LMF) to know the cell DTX / DRX configuration. Another of the problems solved by the inventors is to provide an improvement that contributes to enabling a core network or a UE to control transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal (e.g., positioning signal, DL-PRS, or Positioning SRS) during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0012] One of the objectives that the embodiments disclosed in this specification aim to achieve is to provide an apparatus, a method, and a program that contribute to solving at least one of the problems, including the problems described above. It should be noted that this objective is only one of the objectives that the embodiments disclosed in this specification aim to achieve. Other objectives or objectives and novel features will become apparent from the description of this specification or the accompanying drawings.

[0013] In a first aspect, the radio access network node is configured to transmit information about cell DTX and / or cell DRX to the core network.

[0014] In a second aspect, a method performed by a radio access network node includes transmitting information about cell DTX or cell DRX or both to a core network.

[0015] In a third aspect, the core network node is configured to receive information about cell DTX or cell DRX or both from the radio access network node.

[0016] In a fourth aspect, a method performed by a core network node includes receiving information about cell DTX or cell DRX or both from a radio access network node.

[0017] In a fifth aspect, the core network node is configured to provide information about cell DTX or cell DRX or both of neighboring cells to a radio terminal via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell for the radio terminal.

[0018] In a sixth aspect, a method performed by a core network node includes providing information about cell DTX or cell DRX or both of neighboring cells to a radio terminal via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell for the radio terminal.

[0019] In a seventh aspect, the radio terminal is configured to receive information about cell DTX and / or cell DRX of neighbouring cells from a core network node via a radio access network node providing the serving cell.

[0020] In an eighth aspect, a method performed by a wireless terminal includes receiving information about cell DTX or cell DRX or both of a neighboring cell from a core network node via a radio access network node providing a serving cell.

[0021] In a ninth aspect, the core network node is configured to transmit to a radio access network node first configuration information indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting certain downlink signals during a cell DTX inactivity time of a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0022] In a tenth aspect, a method performed by a core network node includes transmitting, to a radio access network node, first configuration information indicating whether or not transmission of a particular downlink signal is permitted to stop during a cell DTX inactivity time of a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0023] In an eleventh aspect, a radio access network node is configured to receive from a core network first configuration information indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting certain downlink signals during a cell DTX inactivity time of a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0024] In a twelfth aspect, a method performed by a radio access network node includes receiving first configuration information from a core network indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting certain downlink signals during a cell DTX inactivity time of a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0025] In a thirteenth aspect, a core network node is configured to send to a radio access network node a first request for deactivation of cell DTX or cell DRX in a cell served by said radio access network node.

[0026] In a fourteenth aspect, a method performed by a core network node includes sending to a radio access network node a first request for deactivation of cell DTX or cell DRX in a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0027] In a fifteenth aspect, a radio access network node is configured to receive from a core network a first request for deactivation of cell DTX or cell DRX in a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0028] In a sixteenth aspect, a method performed by a radio access network node includes receiving a first request from a core network for deactivation of cell DTX or cell DRX in a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0029] In a seventeenth aspect, a core network node is configured to send to a radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell DTX or cell DRX in a cell served by said radio access network node.

[0030] In an eighteenth aspect, a method performed by a core network node includes transmitting to a radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during a cell DTX or cell DRX inactivity time in a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0031] In a nineteenth aspect, a radio access network node is configured to receive from a core network a first request to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell DTX or cell DRX in a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0032] In a twentieth aspect, a method performed by a radio access network node includes receiving a first request from a core network to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during a cell DTX or cell DRX inactivity time in a cell served by the radio access network node.

[0033] In a twenty-first aspect, the wireless terminal is configured to transmit to a serving radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell DTX or cell DRX.

[0034] In a twenty-second aspect, a method performed by a wireless terminal includes transmitting to a serving radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell DTX or cell DRX.

[0035] In a twenty-third aspect, the radio access network node is configured to receive a first request from a wireless terminal to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of a cell DTX or cell DRX.

[0036] In a twenty-fourth aspect, a method performed by a radio access network node includes receiving a first request from a wireless terminal to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell DTX or cell DRX.

[0037] In a twenty-fifth aspect, a program includes a group of instructions (software code) that, when loaded into a computer, causes the computer to perform a method according to any one of the above aspects.

[0038] According to the above-described aspects, it is possible to provide an apparatus, a method, and a program that contribute to solving at least one of a plurality of problems including the above-described problem.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates an example configuration of a wireless communication system according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 2 illustrates an example configuration of a wireless communication system according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3 illustrates a cell DTX pattern. FIG. 4 illustrates a cell DRX pattern. FIG. 5 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 6 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 7 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 8 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 9 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 10 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 11 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. FIG. 12 illustrates an example of signaling between a gNB and an LMF according to one or more embodiments. Figure 1 illustrates an example of signaling between a UE and an LMF, which is relevant to one or more embodiments; Figure 2 illustrates an example of signaling between a UE and an LMF, which is relevant to one or more embodiments; Figure 3 illustrates an example of a PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message, which is relevant to one or more embodiments; Figure 4 illustrates an example of a PRS CONFIGURATION RESPONSE message, which is relevant to one or more embodiments; Figure 5 illustrates an example of a POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message, which is relevant to one or more embodiments; Figure 6 illustrates an example of a POSITIONING INFORMATION RESPONSE message, which is relevant to one or more embodiments; Figure 7 illustrates an example of a POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message, which is relevant to one or more embodiments;FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an LPP NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceDataPerTRP information element, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating example operations of a UE, gNBs, AMF, and LMF, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 3 is a sequence diagram illustrating example operations of a UE, gNBs, AMF, and LMF, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram illustrating example operations of a UE and gNBs, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram illustrating example operations of a UE, gNBs, and a RIC, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a UE, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example configuration of a gNB, which is relevant to one or more embodiments. FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating example configurations of an AMF, LMF, and RIC, which is relevant to one or more embodiments.

[0040] Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and for clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations will be omitted as necessary.

[0041] The multiple embodiments described below may be used independently, or two or more embodiments may be combined as appropriate. These multiple embodiments may have different novel features. Therefore, these multiple embodiments may contribute to achieving different objectives or solving different problems, and may contribute to achieving different effects.

[0042] Each drawing is merely an example for describing one or more embodiments. Each drawing may not relate to only one particular embodiment, but may also relate to one or more other embodiments. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create, for example, an embodiment not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing are necessary to describe an exemplary embodiment, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps described in any drawing may be changed as appropriate.

[0043] The following embodiments are described primarily for the 3GPP fifth generation mobile communication system (5G system), but may also be applied to other wireless communication systems that support technologies similar to 3GPP cell DTX and cell DRX.

[0044] As used herein, depending on the context, "if" may be interpreted to mean "when," "while," "at or around the time," "after," "upon," "in response to determining," "in accordance with a determination," or "in response to detecting." These expressions may be interpreted to have the same meaning, depending on the context.

[0045] First, the configuration and operation of multiple network elements common to multiple embodiments will be described. Fig. 1 shows an example configuration of a wireless communication system related to multiple embodiments. Each element (network function) shown in Fig. 1 can be implemented, for example, as a network element on dedicated hardware, as a software instance running on dedicated hardware, or as a virtualized function instantiated on an application platform.

[0046] In the example of Figure 1, the wireless communication system includes UE 1, gNBs 2A and 2B, and a 5G Core Network (5GC) 3. Hereinafter, when describing matters common to multiple gNBs, reference will be made to gNB 2 unless otherwise specified. UE 1 may be referred to by other terms such as a wireless terminal, a mobile terminal, a mobile station, or a wireless transmit receive unit (WTRU). gNB 2 may be referred to by other terms such as a RAN node, a base station, or a radio station. 5GC 3 may be referred to by other terms such as a core network.

[0047] The UE 1 has at least one radio transceiver and communicates with the gNB 2. The gNB 2 manages, operates, or provides a cell 21 and communicates with the UE 1 within the cell 21 using cellular communication technology (i.e., NR Radio Access Technology). These communications include downlink and uplink transmissions. The downlink transmissions include transmissions of cell-specific (or cell-common) synchronization signals, cell-specific (or cell-common) and UE-specific reference signals, broadcast channels (e.g., Physical Broadcast Channel (PBCH)), control channels (e.g., PDCCH), and data transmission channels (e.g., Physical Downlink Shared Channel (PDSCH)). The cell-specific and UE-specific downlink reference signals include DL-PRS. The uplink transmission includes transmission of a reference signal, a random access channel (i.e., a physical RACH (PRACH)), a control channel (e.g., a physical uplink control channel (PUCCH)), and a data transmission channel (e.g., a physical uplink shared channel (PUSCH)). The uplink reference signal includes a positioning SRS.

[0048] One gNB 2 may provide multiple cells 21, and the UE 1 may be simultaneously connected to multiple cells provided by one gNB 2. In other words, the UE 1 may perform carrier aggregation (CA) between multiple cells provided by one gNB 2. In addition, the UE 1 may be simultaneously connected to multiple gNBs 2 or to one gNB 2 and another RAN node (e.g., eNB) for dual connectivity (DC).

[0049] The 5G Core 3 includes multiple core network nodes. These core network nodes include one or more control plane nodes and one or more user plane (or data plane) nodes. In the case of a 5G system, the control plane nodes include the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) 4, the Session Management Function (SMF), and other nodes (e.g., the Location Management Function (LMF) 5, the Unified Data Management (UDM), and the Policy Control Function (PCF)), while the user plane nodes include the User Plane Function (UPF).

[0050] The AMF 4 is one of the network functions within the 5GC control plane. The AMF 4 provides the termination of the RAN control plane interface (i.e., N2 interface). The AMF 4 terminates a single signaling connection (i.e., NAS signaling connection) with the UE 1 and provides registration management, connection management, and mobility management. Registration management is used to register or deregister the UE 1 to the network (5G system). Connection management is used to establish and release the NAS signaling connection between the UE 1 and the AMF 4. Mobility management is used to keep track of the location of the UE 1. Mobility management uses a periodic registration update procedure and a mobility registration update procedure. Therefore, in the 5G system, mobility management can also be said to be included in registration management.

[0051] The AMF 4 provides NF services to NF consumers (e.g., other AMFs, SMFs, and LMFs 5) over a service-based interface (i.e., Namf interface). The NF services provided by the AMF 4 include a communication service (Namf_Communication). The communication service enables NF consumers (e.g., LMFs 5) to communicate with UEs 1 and gNBs 2 via the AMF 4. Furthermore, the AMF 4 uses NF services provided by other NFs (e.g., UDMs).

[0052] The LMF 5 is one of the network functions in the 5GC control plane. The LMF 5 is a location server in the NG-RAN UE positioning architecture. The LMF 5 or location server is a physical or logical entity that manages the positioning of a target device (e.g., UE 1) by obtaining measurements and other location information from one or more positioning units (e.g., UE 1 or gNB 2 or both) and providing assistance data to the positioning units. The LMF 5 or location server may compute or verify a final location estimate.

[0053] The LMF 5 manages support for various location-based services for the UE 1, including positioning the UE 1 and delivering Assistance Data to the UE 1. The LMF 5 may interact with the UE 1's serving gNB 2 (e.g., gNB 2A) to obtain position measurements for the UE 1. The position measurements for the UE 1 include uplink measurements by the NG-RAN (e.g., gNB 2A) and downlink measurements by the UE 1. The LMF 5 may interact with the UE 1 to provide Assistance Data or to obtain a location estimate. The LMF 5 may interact with multiple gNBs 2 to provide Assistance Data information for broadcast.

[0054] For positioning of UE 1, the LMF 5 determines one or more positioning methods to be used based on factors such as the type of Location Service (LCS) client, the required Quality of Service (QoS), the positioning capabilities of UE 1, and the positioning capabilities of gNB 2. The LMF 5 then invokes these positioning methods on UE 1, the serving gNB 2 (e.g., gNB 2A), or both. The positioning methods can yield a location estimate in the case of UE-based positioning methods, or positioning measurements in the case of UE-assisted and network-based positioning methods. The LMF 5 may combine all received results to determine a single location estimate for UE 1 (hybrid positioning).

[0055] The LMF 5 has an NL1 interface with the AMF 4. The NL1 interface is transparent to all UE-related and gNB-related positioning procedures. The NL1 interface is used only as a transport link for the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) and NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa). The LPP is used between a location server (e.g., LMF 5) and a target device (e.g., UE 1) to determine the location of the target device (e.g., UE 1) using location-related measurements obtained from one or more reference sources. The NRPPa is used between the LMF 5 and an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) for the transfer of positioning-related information.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 2, a gNB 2 may include a gNB Central Unit (gNB-CU) 201 and one or more gNB Distributed Units (gNB-DUs) (e.g., gNB-DUs 211 and 212). The gNB-CU 201 is a logical node that controls the operation of the gNB-DUs 211 and 212. The gNB-CU 201 hosts the Radio Resource Control (RRC), Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), and Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) protocols (or the RRC and PDCP protocols) of the gNB 2. Each of the gNB-DUs 211 and 212 is a logical node that hosts the Radio Link Control (RLC) layer and Medium Access Control (MAC) layer of the gNB 2 and hosts part of the Physical (PHY) layer, i.e., the upper (high) PHY layer, of the gNB 2. The remaining PHY layer signal processing, i.e., the lower PHY layer, is located in TRPs 231 to 235.

[0057] One gNB-DU supports one or more cells. One cell is supported by only one gNB-DU. In the example of Figure 2, gNB-DU 211 is connected to TRPs 231 to 233, while gNB-DU 212 is connected to TRPs 234 and 235. TRPs 231 to 233 provide one cell 241, and TRPs 234 and 235 provide separate cells 242 and 243, respectively. In other words, gNB-DU 211 provides one cell 241, and TRPs 231 to 233 correspond to cell 241. gNB-DU 212 provides multiple cells 242 and 243, and TRPs 234 and 235 correspond to cells 242 and 243, respectively.

[0058] Each of the TRPs 231 to 235 can communicate with UE 1 using a beam. The TRPs 231 to 235 may also be referred to as Radio Units (RUs), Remote Radio Heads (RRHs), access points (APs), or distributed antennas. Each TRP is a set of geographically co-located antennas (e.g., an antenna array with one or more antenna elements). Each TRP supports one or both of the Transmission Point (TP) and Reception Point (RP) functions. A TP is a set of geographically co-located transmit antennas for a cell, a portion of a cell, or a DL-PRS-only TP. An RP is a set of geographically co-located receive antennas for a cell, a portion of a cell, or a UL-SRS-only RP.

[0059] UE 1 and gNB 2 support cell DTX and cell DRX. As mentioned above, this specification uses the terms "cell DTX active time," "cell DTX inactive time," "cell DRX active time," and "cell DRX inactive or non-active time" to refer to cell DTX / DRX. Cell DTX / DRX active time refers to the duration, time, or period during which a cell is in an active state and can transmit and receive all necessary cell common channels and signals and UE-specific signals and channels. In contrast, cell DTX / DRX inactive time refers to the duration, time, or period during which a cell is in an inactive state due to NES and can either not transmit or receive or can maintain only limited transmission or reception. Cell DTX / DRX active time may also be referred to as cell DTX / DRX active period or duration, or cell DTX / DRX on duration, time, or period. The cell DTX / DRX inactive time may be referred to as a cell DTX / DRX inactive period or duration, or may be referred to as a cell DTX / DRX off duration, time, or period.

[0060] If cell DTX of cell 21 is activated, gNB 2 may not perform downlink transmission in cell 21 or may maintain only limited downlink transmission during cell DTX inactive time. Similarly, if cell DRX of cell 21 is activated, gNB 2 may not perform uplink reception in cell 21 or may maintain only limited uplink reception during cell DRX inactive time. In a first example, during cell DTX / DRX inactive time, gNB 2 is expected to turn off all transmission or reception of data traffic and reference signals in cell 21. In a second example, during cell DTX / DRX inactive time, gNB 2 is expected to turn off transmission or reception of only data traffic in cell 21. That is, gNB 2 continues to transmit or receive reference signals. In a third example, during cell DTX / DRX inactive time, gNB 2 is expected to turn off dynamic data transmission or reception in cell 21. That is, gNB 2 is expected to still transmit or receive on periodic resources such as SPS, CG PUSCH, DL-PRS, Scheduling Request (SR), RACH, and SRS. In a fourth example, during cell DTXX inactive time, gNB 2 is expected to transmit only reference signals (e.g., CSI-RS for measurements, DL-PRS, Tracking Reference Signal (TRS), etc.) in cell 21.

[0061] The cell DTX mode and the cell DRX mode can be configured and operated separately (e.g., one RRC configuration set for the downlink and another for the uplink). The cell DTX and cell DRX can also be configured and operated together. For each cell DTX / DRX configuration, parameters can be configured, including at least a periodicity or cycle, a start offset, and an on-duration. The on-duration corresponds to at least a portion of the cell DTX / DRX active time. The start offset defines the starting point (e.g., subframe or slot) of the cell DTX / DRX cycle. The gNB 2 may provide the cell DTX / DRX configuration information to the UE 1 via cell-specific (or cell-common) or UE-specific RRC signaling. The cell-specific RRC signaling may be system information (e.g., SIB). The UE-specific RRC signaling may be an RRC Reconfiguration message. If system information is used to send the cell DTX / DRX configuration information, updating of the cell DTX / DRX configuration information may be done using a system information modification procedure.

[0062] Cell DTX and cell DRX may be activated or deactivated separately or together. Activation of cell DTX / DRX may be performed using Layer 1, Layer 2, or Layer 3 (L1 / L2 / L3) signaling. The gNB 2 may send L1 / L2 / L3 signaling indicating activation of cell DTX / DRX. This indication may be referred to as an NES mode indication, an NES activation indication, etc. L1 / L2 / L3 signaling may be UE-specific, UE group-specific (i.e., UE group-wide), or cell-specific (i.e., cell-wide).

[0063] More specifically, cell DTX / DRX may be implicitly activated and deactivated. That is, cell DTX / DRX may be immediately activated when configured by UE-specific RRC signaling, or may be deactivated when the RRC configuration is released. In addition, cell DTX / DRX may be dynamically activated and deactivated by L1 / L2 signaling. Dynamic L1 / L2 signaling may be UE-specific or UE-group-wide.

[0064] gNB2 may configure multiple sets of cell DTX configurations for UE1 via RRC signaling and may activate one cell DTX configuration set to be applied using L1 / L2 signaling. Similarly, gNB2 may configure multiple sets of cell DRX configurations for UE1 via RRC signaling and may activate one cell DRX configuration set to be applied using L1 / L2 signaling.

[0065] The UE-specific L1 signaling may be in a Downlink Control Information (DCI) format with Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) bits scrambled by a UE-specific Radio Network Temporary Identifier (RNTI) (e.g., Cell RNTI (C-RNTI)). In other words, the UE-specific L1 signaling may be a PDCCH carrying CRC bits scrambled by the UE-specific RNTI.

[0066] The UE group-common L1 signaling may be in a DCI format with CRC bits scrambled by a UE group-specific RNTI. In other words, the UE group-common L1 signaling may be a PDCCH carrying CRC bits scrambled by a UE group-specific RNTI. The UE group may be a group to which only NES-capable UEs in the cell 21 belong, and may exclude legacy UEs that are not NES-capable. The UE group-specific RNTI may be a newly defined RNTI for cell DTX / DRX.

[0067] The cell-common L1 signaling may be in a DCI format with CRC bits scrambled by a cell-specific RNTI. In other words, the cell-common L1 signaling may be a PDCCH carrying CRC bits scrambled by a cell-specific RNTI. The cell-specific or cell-common RNTI may be a System Information RNTI (SI-RNTI) or a Paging RNTI (P-RNTI), or may be a newly defined RNTI for cell DTX / DRX. Specifically, the cell-common L1 signaling may be a DCI including a short message indicating a change in system information, or a PDCCH carrying the DCI and CRC bits scrambled by the P-RNTI. The DCI may indicate a short message indicating cell DTX / DRX activation or NES mode indication in addition to the short message indicating the change in system information.

[0068] The UE-specific L2 signaling may be a Medium Access Control (MAC) Control Element (CE) transmitted on a PDSCH scheduled by a DCI format with CRC bits scrambled by a UE-specific RNTI. The UE group-common L2 signaling may be a MAC CE transmitted on a PDSCH scheduled by a DCI format with CRC bits scrambled by a UE group-specific RNTI. The cell-specific L2 signaling may be a MAC CE transmitted on a PDSCH scheduled by a DCI format with CRC bits scrambled by a cell-specific RNTI.

[0069] The cell-common L3 signaling may be system information (e.g., SIB), and the UE-specific L3 signaling may be a UE-dedicated RRC message, specifically, an RRC Reconfiguration message.

[0070] The cell DTX / DRX on-duration may be extended. The cell DTX on-duration and the cell DRX on-duration may be extended separately or together. If the gNB 2 wishes to extend the cell DTX on-duration, the cell DRX on-duration, or both, it may send L1 / L2 signaling to the UE 1 to trigger the on-duration extension. This L1 / L2 signaling may be cell-specific (or cell-general), UE group-specific, or UE-specific. Specific examples of L1 / L2 signaling for extending the cell DTX / DRX on-duration are similar to those described for the L1 / L2 signaling for cell DTX / DRX activation. Extending the cell DTX / DRX on-duration within a cell DTX / DRX cycle results in an increase in the cell DTX / DRX active time and a decrease in the cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0071] Figure 3 shows an example of a cell DTX cycle. In the example of Figure 3, one cell DTX cycle 301 includes an on duration 302 at the beginning of the cycle. The on duration 302 is followed by an off duration 303. The cell DTX active time includes or is equal to the cell DTX on duration 302. The cell DTX inactive time includes or is equal to the cell DTX off duration 303.

[0072] Figure 4 shows an example of a cell DRX cycle. In the example of Figure 4, one cell DRX cycle 401 includes an on duration 402 at the beginning of the cycle. The on duration 402 is followed by an off duration 403. The cell DRX active time includes or is equal to the cell DRX on duration 402. The cell DRX inactive time includes or is equal to the cell DRX off duration 403.

[0073] The gNB 2 may be connected to a RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) 6. The RIC 6 may include one or both of a Non-Real-Time (Non-RT) RIC and a Near-RT RIC as defined in the Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) Alliance technical specifications. The gNB 2 may be connected to the RIC 6 via one or both of an O1 interface and an E2 interface. According to the O-RAN architecture, the gNB 2 may be referred to as an E2 node.

[0074] The Non-RT RIC is a logical function within the Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) framework. The SMO framework is sometimes simply referred to as SMO. The Non-RT RIC consists of the Non-RT RIC framework and Non-RT RIC applications (rApps). The Non-RT RIC framework contains functionality that logically terminates the A1 interface and exposes a set of R1 services to rApps through the R1 interface. The A1 termination allows the Non-RT RIC framework and Near-RT RIC to exchange messages over the A1 interface. The set of R1 services includes, among other services, A1-related services and O1-related services.

[0075] O1-related services are provided by the SMO framework and / or the Non-RT RIC framework and enable rApps to obtain information about alarms, obtain performance information related to the network, obtain the current configuration of the network, provision changes to the network's configuration, and obtain additional information related to the network.

[0076] The SMO framework provides various logical functions that are not anchored within the Non-RT RIC. These logical functions include, among other functions, O1 termination, O2 termination, and external terminations. O1 termination allows the SMO framework to exchange messages with Near-RT RICs and E2 nodes over the O1 interface. O2 termination allows the SMO framework to exchange messages with the O-Cloud platform over the O2 interface.

[0077] The Near-RT RIC is a logical function that enables near-real-time control and optimization of RAN elements and resources through granular data collection and action over the E2 interface. The Near-RT RIC hosts a set of applications called Near-RT RIC applications (xApps) and provides a set of commonly used platform functions to support the specific functions hosted by the xApps. The set of platform functions includes, among other functions, interface terminations and provision of Near-RT RIC Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). The interface terminations include E2 termination, A1 termination, and O1 termination, which provide termination for the E2 interface, A1 interface, and O1 interface, respectively.

[0078] The E2 interface connects the Near-RT RIC to one or more E2 nodes. The E2 node is a logical node that terminates the E2 interface. The E2 node is a RAN node that exposes one or more RAN functions to the Near-RT RIC and hosted xApps. For NR access, the E2 node includes one or more O-RAN Central Units - Control Plane (O-CU-CPs), one or more O-RAN Central Units - User Plane (O-CU-UPs), one or more O-RAN Distributed Units (O-DUs), or any combination thereof. For Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) access, the E2 node includes one or more O-RAN eNodeBs (O-eNBs).

[0079] <First embodiment> A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is the same as the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides an improvement that contributes to enabling a 5GC 3 (e.g., LMF 5) to know the setting or implementation status of cell DTX / DRX.

[0080] Figure 5 shows an example of signaling between gNB 2 and LMF 5. In step 501, gNB 2 sends cell DTX / DRX information to LMF 5. The cell DTX / DRX information is information about cell DTX or cell DRX, or both, for a cell 21 served by gNB 2. The cell DTX / DRX information may indicate whether cell DTX or cell DRX is configured in cell 21.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively, the cell DTX / DRX information may include a cell DTX pattern configured for the cell 21 or information for identifying the cell DTX pattern, such as a cell DTX / DRX setting or cell DTX / DRX parameters. The cell DTX / DRX setting or cell DTX / DRX parameters may include a cell DTX / DRX periodicity or cycle, a start offset, and an on duration.

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, the cell DTX / DRX information may indicate whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is stopped during a cell DTX or cell DRX inactive period configured for the cell 21. In other words, the cell DTX / DRX information may indicate whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is continued even during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time. The specific downlink or uplink signal may include one or both of a downlink positioning signal (e.g., DL-PRS) and an uplink positioning signal (e.g., Positioning SRS).

[0083] Additionally or alternatively, the cell DTX / DRX information may indicate whether cell DTX or cell DRX is activated in the cell 21 .

[0084] The transfer of cell DTX / DRX information in step 501 is performed via the AMF 4. Specifically, the gNB 2 sends an NG Application Protocol (NGAP) message carrying an NRPPa message or an NRPPa Protocol Data Unit (PDU) containing the cell DTX / DRX information to the AMF 4. This NGAP message may be an UPLINK UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message or an UPLINK NON UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message. The AMF 4 forwards the received NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the LMF 5.

[0085] The gNB 2 may send the cell DTX / DRX information to the LMF 5 periodically or aperiodically. In one example, the gNB 2 may send the cell DTX / DRX information to the LMF 5 in response to receiving a request from the LMF 5. FIGS. 6 and 7 show examples of cell DTX / DRX information based on a request from the LMF 5. In the example of FIG. 6, in step 601, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message to the gNB 2 containing a request for cell DTX / DRX information. In step 602, in response to receiving the request from the LMF 5, the gNB 2 sends an NRPPa PRS CONFIGURATION RESPONSE message to the LMF 5 containing the cell DTX / DRX information. In the example of FIG. 7, in step 701, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message to the gNB 2 containing a request for cell DTX / DRX information. In step 602, in response to receiving the request from the LMF 5, the gNB 2 sends an NRPPa POSITIONING INFORMATION RESPONSE message to the LMF 5 containing cell DTX / DRX information.

[0086] The operations shown in Figure 5 can be modified as appropriate. For example, gNB 2 may send cell DTX / DRX information to a core network node (e.g., AMF 4) other than LMF 5. The operations described with reference to Figure 5 enable a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) to know information about cell DTX or cell DRX in cell 21 provided by gNB 2.

[0087] By way of example and not limitation, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may utilize the cell DTX / DRX information as follows: Using or based on the received cell DTX information, the core network node may generate and send configuration information to the gNB 2 indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting a particular downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time. The particular downlink signal may be a downlink positioning signal (e.g., DL-PRS).

[0088] Additionally or alternatively, the core network node may use or based on the received cell DRX information to generate and send to the gNB 2 configuration information indicating whether or not the gNB is permitted to stop transmitting a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time. The specific uplink signal may be an uplink positioning signal (e.g., Positioning SRS).

[0089] Additionally or alternatively, the core network node may generate and send to gNB 2 a request to stop (or deactivate) cell DRX or cell DTX using or based on the received cell DTX / DRX information.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, the core network node may use or based on the received cell DTX information to generate and send to the gNB 2 a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time. The specific downlink signal may be a downlink positioning signal (e.g., DL-PRS).

[0091] Additionally or alternatively, the core network node may use or based on the received cell DRX information to generate and send to the gNB 2 a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time. The specific uplink signal may be an uplink positioning signal (e.g., Positioning SRS).

[0092] Additionally or alternatively, the core network node may use or based on the received cell DRX information to provide information about the cell DTX / DRX of a neighboring cell (e.g., cell 21B) to UE 1 via gNB 2 (e.g., gNB 2A) that serves UE 1's serving cell (e.g., cell 21A).

[0093] <Second embodiment> A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is similar to the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides an improvement that contributes to enabling the 5GC 3 (e.g., LMF 5) to control transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal (e.g., positioning signal, DL-PRS, or Positioning SRS) during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0094] 8 shows an example of signaling between the gNB 2 and the LMF 5. In step 801, the LMF 5 sends configuration information to the gNB 2 indicating whether the gNB 2 is allowed to stop transmitting downlink positioning signals (e.g., DL-PRS) during cell DTX inactivity times of the cell 21 served by the gNB 2. The LMF 5 may send the configuration information to the gNB 2 via an NRPPa message. The NRPPa message may be a PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message.

[0095] The gNB 2 determines whether to continue transmitting downlink positioning signals even during the cell DTX inactive time using or based on the received configuration information. The gNB 2 may generate a cell DTX configuration indicating whether to continue transmitting downlink positioning signals even during the cell DTX inactive time and send the same to the UE 1.

[0096] The transfer of the configuration information in step 801 is performed via the AMF 4. Specifically, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa message or an NRPPa PDU containing the configuration information to the AMF 4. The AMF 4 forwards the received NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the gNB 2 via an NGAP message. This NGAP message may be a DOWNLINK UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message or a DOWNLINK NON UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message.

[0097] The operations shown in Figure 8 can be modified as appropriate. For example, there may be downlink physical signals or channels other than downlink positioning signals (e.g., DL-PRS) whose transmission during the cell DTX inactive time can be preferably configured or changed. In this case, the LMF 5 or a core network node other than the LMF 5 (e.g., AMF 4) may send configuration information to the gNB 2 indicating whether the gNB 2 is permitted to stop transmitting a specific downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time of the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2. The operations described with reference to Figure 8 enable the core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) to control whether to stop transmitting a specific downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time in the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2.

[0098] 9 shows another example of signaling between gNB 2 and LMF 5. In step 901, LMF 5 sends configuration information to gNB 2 indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting uplink positioning signals (e.g., Positioning SRS) during the cell DRX inactive time of the cell 21 served by gNB 2. LMF 5 may send the configuration information to gNB 2 via an NRPPa message. The NRPPa message may be a POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message.

[0099] The gNB 2 may use or based on the received configuration information to determine whether the UE 1 is expected to continue transmitting uplink positioning signals even during the cell DRX inactive time. The gNB 2 may generate and send to the UE 1 a cell DTX configuration indicating whether the UE 1 is expected to continue transmitting uplink positioning signals even during the cell DRX inactive time.

[0100] The transfer of the configuration information in step 901 is performed via the AMF 4. Specifically, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa message or an NRPPa PDU containing the configuration information to the AMF 4. The AMF 4 forwards the received NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the gNB 2 via an NGAP message. This NGAP message may be a DOWNLINK UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message or a DOWNLINK NON UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message.

[0101] The operations shown in Figure 9 can be modified as appropriate. For example, there may be uplink physical signals or channels other than uplink positioning signals (e.g., Positioning SRS) whose transmission during the cell DRX inactive time can be preferably configured or changed. In this case, the LMF 5 or a core network node other than the LMF 5 (e.g., AMF 4) may send configuration information to the gNB 2 indicating whether or not the gNB 2 is permitted to stop transmitting a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time of the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2. The operations described with reference to Figure 9 enable the core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) to control whether or not to stop transmitting a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time in the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2.

[0102] <Third embodiment> A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is the same as the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides an improvement that contributes to enabling a 5GC 3 (e.g., LMF 5) to temporarily stop cell DTX / DRX.

[0103] Figure 10 shows an example of signaling between gNB 2 and LMF 5. In step 1001, LMF 5 sends to gNB 2 a request to stop, suspend or deactivate one or both of cell DTX and cell DRX in the cell 21 served by gNB 2. gNB 2 stops, suspends or deactivates cell DTX / DRX using or based on the received cell DTX / DRX stop request.

[0104] As shown in Figure 11, when requesting the stopping (or suspension or deactivation) of cell DTX, the LMF 5 may send the request to the gNB 2 via an NRPPa PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message (step 1101). As shown in Figure 12, when requesting the stopping (or suspension or deactivation) of cell DRX, the LMF 5 may send the request to the gNB 2 via an NRPPa POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message (step 1201).

[0105] The transfer of the cell DTX / DRX deactivation request in steps 1001, 1101, and 1201 is performed via the AMF 4. Specifically, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa message or an NRPPa PDU containing the cell DTX / DRX deactivation request to the AMF 4. The AMF 4 forwards the received NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the gNB 2 via an NGAP message. This NGAP message may be a DOWNLINK UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message or a DOWNLINK NON UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message.

[0106] The operations shown in FIG. 10 can be modified as appropriate. For example, a core network node other than the LMF 5 (e.g., the AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request to the gNB 2. The operations described with reference to FIG. 10 enable the core network node (e.g., the LMF 5 or the AMF 4) to control the stopping, pausing, or deactivation of cell DTX / DRX in the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2. In an implementation in which transmission of downlink positioning signals is stopped during cell DTX inactive time, the operations described with reference to FIG. 10 enable the core network node (e.g., the LMF 5 or the AMF 4) to prompt the gNB 2 to start transmitting downlink positioning signals. Similarly, in an implementation in which transmission of uplink positioning signals is stopped or not expected during cell DRX inactive time, the operations described with reference to FIG. 10 enable the core network node (e.g., the LMF 5 or the AMF 4) to prompt the gNB 2 to start transmitting uplink positioning signals.

[0107] A core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request (step 1001) to a gNB 2 managing the cell 21 in response to a request for an emergency call or emergency service from a UE 1 camping in the cell 21. Specifically, the AMF 4 may send an indication of the emergency call or emergency service to the LMF 5 in response to receiving the request for the emergency call or emergency service from the UE 1. In response to receiving the indication of the emergency call or emergency service, the LMF 5 may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request to the gNB 2. When a UE requests an emergency call or emergency service during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time, the UE may need to perform UE positioning using a downlink positioning signal (e.g., DL-PRS) or an uplink positioning signal (e.g., Positioning SRS). This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning performed in connection with an emergency call or emergency service during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request (step 1001) to the gNB 2A managing the cell 21A in response to an emergency call or emergency service request from a UE camped in a neighboring cell 21B of the cell 21A. To improve the accuracy of UE positioning, it is preferable that a UE camped in the neighboring cell 21B can use downlink positioning signals from multiple cells or multiple TRPs. This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning.

[0109] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request (step 1001) to a gNB 2 managing the cell 21 in response to a request from a UE 1 camping on the cell 21. The UE 1 may transmit an LPP message containing the request to the LPF 5. Specifically, the UE 1 sends an RRC message containing an LPP message or LPP PDU containing the request to the gNB 2. The RRC message may be an RRC UL Information Transfer message. The gNB 2 forwards the received LPP message or LPP PDU to the AMF 4 via an NGAP message. The NGAP message may be an NGAP UPLINK NAS TRANSPORT message. The AMF 4 forwards the received LPP message or LPP PDU to the LMF 5. This implementation enables the transmission of positioning signals during cell DTX / DRX inactive times to be resumed in response to a request from the UE 1.

[0110] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request (step 1001) to the gNB 2A managing the cell 21A in response to a request from a UE camped in a neighboring cell 21B of the cell 21A. To improve the accuracy of UE positioning, it is preferable that a UE camped in the neighboring cell 21B can use downlink positioning signals from multiple cells or multiple TRPs. This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning.

[0111] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request (step 1001) to a gNB 2 managing a cell 21 in response to a request from the gNB 2. This implementation allows the transmission of positioning signals during cell DTX / DRX inactive times to be resumed in response to a request from the gNB 2.

[0112] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a cell DTX / DRX stop request (step 1001) to the gNB 2A managing the cell 21A in response to a request from the gNB 2B managing the neighboring cell 22B of the cell 21A. To improve the accuracy of UE positioning, it is preferable that a UE staying in the neighboring cell 21B can use downlink positioning signals from multiple cells or multiple TRPs. This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning.

[0113] The cell DTX / DRX deactivation request (step 1001) may specify a period for which deactivation of cell DTX / DRX is requested or desired. In this case, the gNB 2 may temporarily suspend cell DTX / DRX for the period specified in the request. Alternatively, the gNB 2 may temporarily suspend cell DTX / DRX for a predefined or configured period. Alternatively, the gNB 2 may temporarily suspend cell DTX / DRX until it receives a message from a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) requesting or authorizing resumption of cell DTX / DRX.

[0114] <Fourth embodiment> A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is similar to the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides an improvement that contributes to enabling the 5GC 3 (e.g., LMF 5) to control transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal (e.g., positioning signal, DL-PRS, or Positioning SRS) during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0115] 13 shows an example of signaling between a gNB 2 and an LMF 5. In step 1301, the LMF 5 sends a request to the gNB 2 to resume or continue transmission of downlink positioning signals (e.g., DL-PRS) during cell DTX inactivity time of a cell 21 served by the gNB 2. The request requests the gNB 2 to continue transmitting downlink positioning signals even during cell DTX inactivity time. The LMF 5 may send the request to the gNB 2 via an NRPPa message. The NRPPa message may be a PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message.

[0116] Using or based on the received request, gNB 2 decides to continue transmitting downlink positioning signals even during the cell DTX inactive time. gNB 2 may generate and send to UE 1 a cell DTX configuration indicating that transmission of downlink positioning signals will continue even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0117] The forwarding of the request in step 1301 is performed via the AMF 4. Specifically, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa message or an NRPPa PDU containing the request to the AMF 4. The AMF 4 forwards the received NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the gNB 2 via an NGAP message. This NGAP message may be a DOWNLINK UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message or a DOWNLINK NON UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message.

[0118] The operations shown in Figure 13 can be modified as appropriate. For example, there may be downlink physical signals or channels other than downlink positioning signals (e.g., DL-PRS) whose transmission during the cell DTX inactive time can be preferably changed. In this case, the LMF 5 or a core network node other than the LMF 5 (e.g., AMF 4) may send a request to the gNB 2 to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time of the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2. The operations described with reference to Figure 13 enable the core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) to control the resumption or continuation of transmission of a specific downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time in the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2.

[0119] In response to a request for an emergency call or emergency service from a UE 1 camping in a cell 21, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal to a gNB 2 managing the cell 21 (step 1301). Specifically, in response to receiving the request for the emergency call or emergency service from the UE 1, the AMF 4 may send an indication of the emergency call or emergency service to the LMF 5. In response to receiving the indication of the emergency call or emergency service, the LMF 5 may send a request to resume or continue transmission of the downlink positioning signal to the gNB 2. When a UE requests an emergency call or emergency service during a cell DTX inactive time, the UE may need to perform UE positioning using a downlink positioning signal (e.g., DL-PRS). This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning performed in connection with an emergency call or emergency service during a cell DTX inactive time.

[0120] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal (step 1301) to the gNB 2A managing the cell 21A in response to an emergency call or emergency service request from a UE located in a neighboring cell 21B of the cell 21A. To improve the accuracy of UE positioning, it is preferable that a UE located in the neighboring cell 21B can use downlink positioning signals from multiple cells or multiple TRPs. This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning.

[0121] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal to a gNB 2 managing the cell 21 in response to a request from a UE 1 camping in the cell 21 (step 1301). The UE 1 may send an LPP message containing the request to the LPF 5. This implementation allows the transmission of downlink positioning signals during cell DTX inactive times to be resumed in response to a request from the UE 1.

[0122] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal to the gNB 2A managing the cell 21A in response to a request from a UE camped in a neighboring cell 21B of the cell 21A (step 1301). To improve the accuracy of UE positioning, it is preferable that a UE camped in the neighboring cell 21B can use downlink positioning signals from multiple cells or multiple TRPs. This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning.

[0123] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may, in response to a request from a gNB 2 managing a cell 21, send a request (step 1301) to the gNB 2 to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink signal. This implementation allows transmission of downlink positioning signals during cell DTX inactive times to be resumed in response to a request from the gNB 2.

[0124] Additionally or alternatively, a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) may send a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal to the gNB 2A managing the cell 21A in response to a request from the gNB 2B managing the neighboring cell 22B of the cell 21A (step 1301). To improve the accuracy of UE positioning, it is preferable that a UE staying in the neighboring cell 21B can use downlink positioning signals from multiple cells or multiple TRPs. This implementation can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning.

[0125] The request to resume or continue transmission of the specific downlink signal (step 1301) may specify a period for which continued transmission of the specific downlink signal is requested or desired. In this case, the gNB 2 may continue transmitting the specific downlink signal for the period specified in the request. Alternatively, the gNB 2 may continue transmitting the specific downlink signal for a predefined or configured period. Alternatively, the gNB 2 may continue transmitting the specific downlink signal until it receives a message from a core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) requesting or authorizing it to stop transmitting the specific downlink signal.

[0126] 14 shows another example of signaling between gNB 2 and LMF 5. In step 1401, LMF 5 sends to gNB 2 a request to resume or continue transmission of uplink positioning signals (e.g., Positioning SRS) during cell DRX inactive time of a cell 21 served by gNB 2. The request requests gNB 2 to continue transmitting uplink positioning signals even during cell DRX inactive time. LMF 5 may send the request to gNB 2 via an NRPPa message. The NRPPa message may be a PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message.

[0127] Using or based on the received request, gNB 2 decides to continue transmitting uplink positioning signals even during the cell DRX inactive time. gNB 2 may generate and send to UE 1 a cell DRX configuration indicating that continued transmission of uplink positioning signals is required or expected even during the cell DRX inactive time.

[0128] The forwarding of the request in step 1401 is performed via the AMF 4. Specifically, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa message or an NRPPa PDU containing the request to the AMF 4. The AMF 4 forwards the received NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the gNB 2 via an NGAP message. This NGAP message may be a DOWNLINK UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message or a DOWNLINK NON UE ASSOCIATED NRPPA TRANSPORT message.

[0129] The operations shown in Figure 14 can be modified as appropriate. For example, there may be uplink physical signals or channels other than uplink positioning signals (e.g., Positioning SRS) whose transmission during the cell DRX inactive time can be preferably changed. In this case, the LMF 5 or a core network node other than the LMF 5 (e.g., AMF 4) may send a request to the gNB 2 to resume or continue transmission of a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time of the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2. The operations described with reference to Figure 14 enable the core network node (e.g., LMF 5 or AMF 4) to control the resumption or continuation of transmission of a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time in the cell 21 provided by the gNB 2.

[0130] The triggers for a core network node (eg, LMF 5 or AMF 4) to send the request of step 1401 may be similar to those described with respect to the request of step 1301.

[0131] Fifth Embodiment A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is the same as the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides an improvement that contributes to enabling UE 1 to know the configuration or implementation status of cell DTX / DRX in neighboring cells.

[0132] 15 shows an example of signaling between UE 1 and LMF 5. In step 1501, LMF 5 provides cell DTX / DRX information of a neighboring cell (e.g., cell 21B) to UE 1 via gNB 2 (e.g., gNB 2A) that provides the serving cell (e.g., cell 21A) of UE 1. The cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell is information about cell DTX or cell DRX, or both, in the neighboring cell. LMF 5 may collect the cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell using, for example, the procedure described in the first embodiment (e.g., Figures 5, 6, or 7).

[0133] The cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell may indicate whether cell DTX or cell DRX is configured in the neighboring cell. Additionally or alternatively, the cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell may include information for identifying the cell DTX pattern configured in the neighboring cell or the cell DTX pattern, such as a cell DTX / DRX configuration or cell DTX / DRX parameters. The cell DTX / DRX configuration or cell DTX / DRX parameters may include the periodicity or cycle, start offset, and on-duration of the cell DTX / DRX.

[0134] Additionally or alternatively, the cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell may indicate whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is stopped during a cell DTX or cell DRX inactivity period configured for the neighboring cell. In other words, the cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell may indicate whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is continued in the neighboring cell even during the cell DTX / DRX inactivity time. The specific downlink or uplink signal may include one or both of a downlink positioning signal (e.g., DL-PRS) and an uplink positioning signal (e.g., Positioning SRS).

[0135] Additionally or alternatively, the cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell may indicate whether cell DTX or cell DRX is activated in the neighboring cell.

[0136] The transfer of cell DTX / DRX information in step 1501 is performed via the AMF 4 and the serving gNB 2. In one example, the LMF 5 may send an LPP message or LPP PDU containing the cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell to the target UE 1. The LPP message or LPP PDU may be an LPP ProvideAssistanceData message. The cell DTX / DRX information of the neighboring cell may be included in an NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceData information element (IE) in the LPP ProvideAssistanceData message. Specifically, the LMF 5 sends the LPP message or LPP PDU to the AMF 4. The AMF 4 forwards the received LPP message or LPP PDU to the serving gNB 2 via an NGAP message. The NGAP message may be an NGAP DOWNLINK NAS TRANSPORT message. The gNB 2 sends an RRC message containing the received LPP message or LPP PDU to the UE 1. The RRC message may be an RRC DL Information Transfer message.

[0137] In another example, as shown in Figure 16, the LMF 5 may transmit cell DTX / DRX information of neighboring cells to the UE 1 via a positioning System Information Block (posSIB) broadcast in the serving cell of the UE 1. The posSIB is carried by an RRC System Information (SI) message. In step 1601, the LMF 5 sends an NRPPa ASSISTANCE INFORMATION CONTROL message to the gNB 2 via the AMF 4. The ASSISTANCE INFORMATION CONTROL message includes a PosSIB Segments IE containing the assistance data or information to be broadcast (e.g., LPP NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceData IE). In step 1602, the gNB 2 broadcasts the posSIB containing the assistance data or information (e.g., LPP NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceData IE) in the cell 21 via an RRC SystemInformation message. Alternatively, gNB 2 may send the posSIB to UE 1 in RRC_CONNECTED using the dedicatedPosSysInfoDelivery field in the RRCReconfiguration message.

[0138] The operations described with reference to Figures 15 and 16 enable UE 1 to know the configuration or implementation status of cell DTX / DRX in neighboring cells.

[0139] Sixth Embodiment A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is similar to the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides a specific example of a control message related to UE positioning.

[0140] Figure 17 shows an example of an NRPPa PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message. The PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message is used by the LMF 5 to request an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to configure or update (i.e., turn off) DL-PRS transmission. The PRS Configuration Request Type IE 1701 is an enumerated IE and can indicate "PRS DTX suspend", "PRS DTX resume", and "configure_cell DTX / DRX".

[0141] The value "PRS DTX suspend" indicates a request to stop DTX operation for DL-PRS. In other words, a PRS Configuration Request Type IE 1701 set to the value "PRS DTX suspend" requests an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to continue transmitting DL-PRS even during cell DTX inactive time. This can be used for requesting resumption or continuation of transmission of a specific downlink signal (step 1301) as described in the fourth embodiment.

[0142] The value "PRS DTX resume" indicates a request to resume DTX operation for DL-PRS. In other words, a PRS Configuration Request Type IE 1701 set to the value "PRS DTX resume" requests or authorizes an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to stop transmitting DL-PRS during cell DTX inactive time. This can be used for messages requesting or authorizing the stop of transmission of a specific downlink signal, as described in the fourth embodiment.

[0143] The value "configure_cell DTX / DRX" indicates a request for cell DTX / DRX information. In other words, a PRS Configuration Request Type IE 1701 set to the value "configure_cell DTX / DRX" requests an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to provide cell DTX / DRX information to the LMF 5. This can be used for the message requesting cell DTX / DRX information (step 601) described in the first embodiment.

[0144] Figure 18 shows an example of an NRPPa PRS CONFIGURATION RESPONSE message. The PRS CONFIGURATION RESPONSE message is sent from an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to the LMF 5 in response to receiving a PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message. In the example of Figure 18, the PRS CONFIGURATION RESPONSE message may include a Cell DTX / DRX Configuration IE 1801. The Cell DTX / DRX Configuration IE 1801 indicates the cell DTX / DRX configuration (e.g., periodicity or cycle, start offset, and on duration) per TRP. This can be used for the message carrying cell DTX / DRX information (step 602) described in the first embodiment.

[0145] Figure 19 shows an example of an NRPPa POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message. The POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message is used by the LMF 5 to request positioning information from an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2). In the example of Figure 19, the POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message can include a Cell DTX / DRX Information Request IE 1901. The Cell DTX / DRX Information Request IE 1901 requests the NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to provide cell DTX / DRX information to the LMF 5. This can be used for the message requesting cell DTX / DRX information (step 701) described in the first embodiment.

[0146] Figure 20 shows an example of an NRPPa POSITIONING INFORMATION RESPONSE message. The POSITIONING INFORMATION RESPONSE message is sent from an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to the LMF 5 in response to receiving a POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST message. In the example of Figure 20, the POSITIONING INFORMATION RESPONSE message may include a Cell DTX / DRX Configuration IE 2001. The Cell DTX / DRX Configuration IE 2001 indicates the cell DTX / DRX configuration (e.g., periodicity or cycle, start offset, and on duration). This can be used for the message carrying cell DTX / DRX information (step 702) described in the first embodiment.

[0147] Figure 21 shows an example of an NRPPa POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message. The POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message is used by the LMF 5 to cause an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to activate or trigger the transmission of UL-SRS (or Positioning SRS) by the UE. In the example of Figure 21, the POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message can include a Suspend Cell DRX IE 2101 and a Suspend Cell DTX IE 2102.

[0148] The Suspend Cell DRX IE 2101 requests an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to suspend cell DRX operation. This can be used for the Cell DRX suspension request (step 1001 or 1201) described in the third embodiment. Alternatively, the Suspend Cell DRX IE 2101 requests an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to continue transmitting Positioning SRS even during Cell DRX inactive time. This can be used for the request to resume or continue transmission of a specific uplink signal (step 1401) described in the fourth embodiment.

[0149] The Suspend Cell DTX IE 2102 requests an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to suspend cell DTX operation. This can be used for the Cell DTX Suspension Request (step 1001) described in the third embodiment. Alternatively, the Suspend Cell DTX IE 2101 requests an NG-RAN node (e.g., gNB 2) to continue transmitting DL-PRS even during cell DTX inactivity time. This can be used for the Request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal (step 1301) described in the fourth embodiment.

[0150] Figure 22 shows an example of the LPP NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceDataPerTRP IE. The NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceDataPerTRP IE is included in the NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceData IE and sent from the LMF 5 to the UE 1. The NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceDataPerTRP IE indicates DL-PRS assistance data or information per TRP. In the example of Figure 22, the NR-DL-PRS-AssistanceDataPerTRP IE can include an nr-DL-PRS-cellDTX field 2201. The nr-DL-PRS-cellDTX field 2201 indicates cell DTX information of the cell to which or associated with the TRP. The cell to which or associated with the TRP belongs is identified by the nr-PhysCellID and nr-CellGlobalID fields 2202. This can be used for the transfer of cell DTX / DRX information of neighboring cells from the LMF 5 to the UE 1 (step 1501) as described in the fifth embodiment.

[0151] Seventh Embodiment A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is similar to the configuration example described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. This embodiment provides a specific example of the procedures described in the third and fourth embodiments. More specifically, this embodiment provides an example of a procedure for temporarily suspending cell DTX / DRX, or resuming or continuing transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time, in response to an emergency call or a request for emergency service from UE 1.

[0152] Figure 23 shows an example of the operations of the UE 1, gNBs 2A and 2B, the AMF 4, and the LMF 5. In step 2301, the UE 1 sends a request for an emergency call or service to the AMF 4 via the serving gNB 2A. The request may be a Registration Request message for emergency registration, a PDU Session Establishment Request message requesting a PDU Session for emergency services, or a Service Request message.

[0153] In step 2302, the AMF 4 sends an indication of the emergency call or service to the LMF 5. In step 2303, in response to receiving the indication of the emergency call or emergency service, the LMF 5 requests the serving gNB 2A to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time. In addition, the LMF 5 may also request the neighboring gNB 2B serving the neighboring cell 21B to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time.

[0154] In step 2304, the serving gNB 2A resumes DL-PRS transmission during the cell DTX inactive time. In other words, the serving gNB 2A continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time. Similarly, the neighboring gNB 2B, if requested, continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0155] The procedure in Figure 23 can be modified as appropriate. For example, if UE positioning is performed using Positioning SRS, the LMF 5 may request the serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B) to continue transmitting Positioning SRS even during cell DRX inactive time. Additionally or alternatively, in step 2303, the LMF 5 may request the serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B) to stop cell DTX, cell DRX, or both.

[0156] Additionally or alternatively, the procedure of Figure 23 can be used to resume or continue transmission of specific uplink or downlink signals other than DL-PRS and Positioning SRS during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0157] The operations described with reference to FIG. 23 can contribute to improving the accuracy of UE positioning performed in connection with emergency calls or emergency services during cell DTX / DRX inactive times.

[0158] Eighth Embodiment A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is the same as the configuration example described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. This embodiment provides a specific example of the procedures described in the third and fourth embodiments. More specifically, this embodiment provides an example of a procedure for temporarily suspending cell DTX / DRX, or resuming or continuing transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time, in response to a request from UE 1.

[0159] Figure 24 shows an example of the operation of the UE 1, gNBs 2A and 2B, AMF 4, and LMF 5. In step 2401, the UE 1 sends an LPP message or an LPP PDU to the LMF 5 via the serving gNB 2A and AMF 4. This LPP message or LPP PDU requests the resumption or continuation of DL-PRS transmission during cell DTX inactive time.

[0160] In step 2402, in response to receiving the request from UE 1, LMF 5 requests the serving gNB 2A to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time. In addition, LMF 5 may also request neighboring gNB 2B serving neighboring cell 21B to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time.

[0161] In step 2403, the serving gNB 2A resumes DL-PRS transmission during the cell DTX inactive time. In other words, the serving gNB 2A continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time. Similarly, the neighboring gNB 2B, if requested, continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0162] The procedure of Figure 24 can be modified as appropriate. For example, if UE positioning using Positioning SRS is performed, UE 1 may request resumption or continuation of Positioning SRS transmission during cell DRX inactive time in step 2401. Similarly, LMF 5 may request serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B) to continue Positioning SRS transmission even during cell DRX inactive time in step 2402.

[0163] Additionally or alternatively, in step 2401, UE 1 may request the suspension of cell DTX or cell DRX, or both. In step 2402, LMF 5 may request the serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B) to suspension of cell DTX or cell DRX, or both.

[0164] Additionally or alternatively, the procedure of Figure 24 can be used to resume or continue transmission of specific uplink or downlink signals other than DL-PRS and Positioning SRS during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0165] The operations described with reference to Figure 24 enable UE 1 to request the network to resume or continue transmission of a particular uplink or downlink signal during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0166] Ninth Embodiment A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is the same as the configuration example described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. This embodiment provides a specific example of the procedures described in the third and fourth embodiments. More specifically, this embodiment provides an example of a procedure for temporarily suspending cell DTX / DRX, or resuming or continuing transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time, based on a request from UE 1 to serving gNB 2.

[0167] Figure 25 shows an example of the operation of the UE 1, gNBs 2A and 2B, AMF 4, and LMF 5. In step 2501, the UE 1 sends a request to the serving gNB 2A to resume or continue DL-PRS transmission during cell DTX inactivity time. This request may be a request to stop or deactivate cell DTX. In other words, this request may be a request to wake up the serving cell 21A.

[0168] In step 2502, the serving gNB 2A sends an NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU to the LMF 5 via the AMF 4. This NRPPa message or NRPPa PDU includes a request to resume or continue DL-PRS transmission during cell DTX inactivity time. The serving gNB 2A may forward the request received from the UE 1 to the LMF 5.

[0169] In step 2503, in response to receiving a request from the serving gNB 2A, the LMF 5 requests the serving gNB 2A to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time. In addition, the LMF 5 may also request the neighboring gNB 2B serving the neighboring cell 21B to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time.

[0170] In step 2504, the serving gNB 2A resumes DL-PRS transmission during the cell DTX inactive time. In other words, the serving gNB 2A continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time. Similarly, the neighboring gNB 2B, if requested, continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0171] The procedure of Figure 25 can be modified as appropriate. For example, if UE positioning using Positioning SRS is performed, in step 2501, UE 1 may request resumption or continuation of Positioning SRS transmission during cell DRX inactive time. Alternatively, UE 1 may transmit a request to stop or deactivate cell DRX. In step 2502, the serving gNB 2A may send a request to the LMF 5 to resume or continue Positioning SRS transmission during cell DRX inactive time. Similarly, in step 2503, the LMF 5 may request the serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B) to continue Positioning SRS transmission even during cell DRX inactive time.

[0172] Additionally or alternatively, the procedure of Figure 25 can be used to resume or continue transmission of specific uplink or downlink signals other than DL-PRS and Positioning SRS during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0173] The operations described with reference to Figure 25 enable UE 1 to request the network to resume or continue transmission of a particular uplink or downlink signal during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0174] Tenth Embodiment A configuration example of a wireless communication system according to this embodiment is similar to the configuration example described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. This embodiment provides an improvement that contributes to enabling a UE 1 to control transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal (e.g., a positioning signal, DL-PRS, or Positioning SRS) during a cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0175] FIG. 26 shows an example of the operation of UE 1 and gNBs 2A and 2B. In step 2601, UE 1 sends a request to the serving gNB 2A to resume or continue DL-PRS transmission during cell DTX inactive time. This request may request that DL-PRS transmission be continued even during cell DTX inactive time. More specifically, this request may request that DL-PRS transmission be continued in the serving cell 21A even during cell DTX inactive time. This request may request that DL-PRS transmission be continued by the serving TRP of the serving cell 21A even during cell DTX inactive time. This request may request that DL-PRS transmission be continued by the serving TRP and one or more neighboring TRPs even during cell DTX inactive time. Additionally or alternatively, this request may request that DL-PRS transmission be continued in the neighboring cell 21B even during cell DTX inactive time.

[0176] In step 2602, in response to receiving the request from UE 1, the serving gNB 2A requests the neighboring gNB 2B to continue DL-PRS transmission even during cell DTX inactive time. The serving gNB 2A may forward the request received from UE 1 to the neighboring gNB 2B. The destination of the request, including the neighboring gNB 2B, may be configured by an Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) server. Alternatively, the serving gNB 2A may determine the destination of the request, including the neighboring gNB 2B, using or based on a neighbor cell list.

[0177] In step 2603, the serving gNB 2A resumes DL-PRS transmission during the cell DTX inactive time. In other words, the serving gNB 2A continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time. Similarly, the neighboring gNB 2B, if requested, continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0178] The procedure in Figure 26 can be modified as appropriate. For example, if UE positioning is performed using Positioning SRS, UE 1 may request resumption or continuation of Positioning SRS transmission during the cell DRX inactive time in step 2601. In step 2602, the serving gNB 2A sends a request to neighboring gNB 2B to resume or continue Positioning SRS transmission during the cell DRX inactive time.

[0179] Additionally or alternatively, the procedure of Figure 26 can be used to resume or continue transmission of specific uplink or downlink signals other than DL-PRS and Positioning SRS during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0180] The operations described with reference to Figure 26 enable UE 1 to request the network to resume or continue transmission of a particular uplink or downlink signal during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0181] Figure 27 shows a variation of Figure 26. In the example of Figure 27, the serving gNB 2A sends a request to the RIC 6 to resume or continue transmission of a particular uplink or downlink signal during cell DTX / DRX inactivity time.

[0182] Step 2701 is similar to step 2601 in Figure 26. In step 2702, the serving gNB 2A sends a request to the RIC 6 to resume or continue Positioning SRS transmission during the cell DRX inactive time. In step 2703, in response to receiving the request from the serving gNB 2A, the RIC 6 requests the serving gNB 2A to continue DL-PRS transmission even during the cell DTX inactive time. In addition, the RIC 6 may also request the neighboring gNB 2B that serves the neighboring cell 21B to continue DL-PRS transmission even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0183] In step 2704, the serving gNB 2A resumes DL-PRS transmission during the cell DTX inactive time. In other words, the serving gNB 2A continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time. Similarly, the neighboring gNB 2B, if requested, continues transmitting DL-PRS even during the cell DTX inactive time.

[0184] The procedure in Figure 27 can be modified as appropriate. For example, if UE positioning is performed using Positioning SRS, in step 2701, UE 1 may request resumption or continuation of Positioning SRS transmission during the cell DRX inactive time. In step 2702, the serving gNB 2A may send a request to RIC 6 to resume or continue Positioning SRS transmission during the cell DRX inactive time. Similarly, in step 2703, RIC 6 may request the serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B) to continue Positioning SRS transmission even during the cell DRX inactive time.

[0185] Additionally or alternatively, the procedure of Figure 27 can be used to resume or continue transmission of specific uplink or downlink signals other than DL-PRS and Positioning SRS during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0186] Additionally or alternatively, the serving gNB 2A may send the request of step 2702 to an OAM server different from the RIC 6. The OAM server may send the request of step 2703 to the serving gNB 2A (and neighboring gNB 2B).

[0187] The operations described with reference to Figure 27 enable UE 1 to request the network to resume or continue transmission of a particular uplink or downlink signal during cell DTX / DRX inactive time.

[0188] Next, exemplary configurations of the UE 1, gNB 2, AMF 4, LMF 5, and RIC 6 related to the above-described embodiments will be described below. FIG. 28 is a block diagram showing an exemplary configuration of the UE 1. A Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver 2801 performs analog RF signal processing for communication with the gNB 2. The RF transceiver 2801 may include multiple transceivers. The analog RF signal processing performed by the RF transceiver 2801 includes frequency up-conversion, frequency down-conversion, and amplification. The RF transceiver 2801 is coupled to an antenna array 2802 and a baseband processor 2803. The RF transceiver 2801 receives modulation symbol data (or OFDM symbol data) from the baseband processor 2803, generates a transmit RF signal, and provides the transmit RF signal to the antenna array 2802. The RF transceiver 2801 also generates a baseband receive signal based on the receive RF signal received by the antenna array 2802 and provides the baseband receive signal to the baseband processor 2803. The RF transceiver 2801 may include an analog beamformer circuit for beamforming, which may include, for example, multiple phase shifters and multiple power amplifiers.

[0189] The baseband processor 2803 performs digital baseband signal processing (data plane processing) and control plane processing for wireless communications. Digital baseband signal processing includes (a) data compression / decompression, (b) data segmentation / concatenation, (c) transmission format (transmission frame) generation / decomposition, (d) transmission path coding / decoding, (e) modulation (symbol mapping) / demodulation, and (f) generation of OFDM symbol data (baseband OFDM signal) using Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT). Meanwhile, control plane processing includes communication management for Layer 1 (e.g., transmit power control), Layer 2 (e.g., radio resource management and hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) processing), and Layer 3 (e.g., signaling related to attachment, mobility, and call management).

[0190] For example, the digital baseband signal processing by the baseband processor 2803 may include signal processing of a Service Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP) layer, a Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) layer, a Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, a Medium Access Control (MAC) layer, and a Physical (PHY) layer. Also, the control plane processing by the baseband processor 2803 may include processing of a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) protocol, a Radio Resource Control (RRC) protocol, MAC Control Elements (CEs), and Downlink Control Information (DCIs).

[0191] The baseband processor 2803 may perform Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) encoding and precoding for beamforming.

[0192] The baseband processor 2803 may include a modem processor (e.g., a Digital Signal Processor (DSP)) that performs digital baseband signal processing and a protocol stack processor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a Micro Processing Unit (MPU)) that performs control plane processing. In this case, the protocol stack processor that performs control plane processing may be shared with the application processor 2804, which will be described later.

[0193] The application processor 2804 is also referred to as a CPU, MPU, microprocessor, or processor core. The application processor 2804 may include multiple processors (multiple processor cores). The application processor 2804 executes a system software program (operating system (OS)) and various application programs (e.g., a calling application, a web browser, a mailer, a camera operation application, and a music playback application) read from the memory 2806 or other memories, thereby realizing various functions of the UE 1.

[0194] In some implementations, the baseband processor 2803 and the application processor 2804 may be integrated on a single chip, as shown by the dashed line (2805) in Figure 28. In other words, the baseband processor 2803 and the application processor 2804 may be implemented as a single System on Chip (SoC) device 2805. An SoC device is sometimes called a system Large Scale Integration (LSI) or chipset.

[0195] The memory 2806 is volatile memory, nonvolatile memory, or a combination thereof. The memory 2806 may include multiple physically independent memory devices. Volatile memory is, for example, static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), or a combination thereof. Nonvolatile memory is mask read only memory (MROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, a hard disk drive, or any combination thereof. For example, the memory 2806 may include an external memory device accessible from the baseband processor 2803, the application processor 2804, and the SoC 2805. The memory 2806 may also include an internal memory device integrated within the baseband processor 2803, the application processor 2804, or the SoC 2805. Furthermore, the memory 2806 may include memory within a Universal Integrated Circuit Card (UICC).

[0196] The memory 2806 may store one or more software modules (computer programs) 2807 containing instructions and data for processing by the UE 1. In some implementations, the baseband processor 2803 or the application processor 2804 may be configured to read and execute the software modules 2807 from the memory 2806 to perform the processing of the UE 1 described in one or more of the embodiments.

[0197] It should be noted that the control plane processing and operations performed by UE 1 described in the above embodiment can be realized by elements other than the RF transceiver 2801 and the antenna array 2802, namely, at least one of the baseband processor 2803 and the application processor 2804, and the memory 2806 storing the software module 2807.

[0198] FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of gNB2. Referring to FIG. 29, gNB2 includes a Radio Frequency (RF) transceiver 2901, a network interface 2903, a processor 2904, and a memory 2905. The RF transceiver 2901 performs analog RF signal processing to communicate with UEs1. The RF transceiver 2901 may include multiple transceivers. The RF transceiver 2901 is coupled to an antenna array 2902 and a processor 2904. The RF transceiver 2901 receives modulation symbol data from the processor 2904, generates a transmit RF signal, and provides the transmit RF signal to the antenna array 2902. The RF transceiver 2901 also generates a baseband receive signal based on the receive RF signal received by the antenna array 2902 and provides the baseband receive signal to the processor 2904. The RF transceiver 2901 may include an analog beamformer circuit for beamforming. The analog beamformer circuitry includes, for example, multiple phase shifters and multiple power amplifiers.

[0199] The network interface 2903 is used to communicate with network nodes (e.g., other RAN nodes, and control and forwarding nodes of the core network), and may include, for example, a network interface card (NIC) compliant with the IEEE 802.3 series.

[0200] The processor 2904 performs digital baseband signal processing (data plane processing) and control plane processing for wireless communication. The processor 2904 may include multiple processors. For example, the processor 2904 may include a modem processor (e.g., a Digital Signal Processor (DSP)) that performs digital baseband signal processing and a protocol stack processor (e.g., a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a Micro Processing Unit (MPU)) that performs control plane processing. The processor 2904 may include a digital beamformer module for beamforming. The digital beamformer module may include a Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) encoder and precoder.

[0201] The memory 2905 is configured by a combination of volatile memory and non-volatile memory. The volatile memory is, for example, Static Random Access Memory (SRAM), Dynamic RAM (DRAM), or a combination thereof. The non-volatile memory is, for example, Mask Read Only Memory (MROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, or a hard disk drive, or any combination thereof. The memory 2905 may include storage located remotely from the processor 2904. In this case, the processor 2904 may access the memory 2905 via the network interface 2903 or other I / O interface.

[0202] The memory 2905 may store one or more software modules (computer programs) 2906 containing instructions and data for processing by the gNB 2. In some implementations, the processor 2904 may be configured to read and execute the software modules 2906 from the memory 2905 to perform the processing of the gNB 2 described in one or more of the embodiments.

[0203] Note that if gNB 2 is a gNB-CU or gNB-CU-CP, gNB 2 may not include RF transceiver 2901 (and antenna array 2902).

[0204] 30 shows an example configuration of the AMF 4. The configurations of other network nodes such as the LMF 5 and the RIC 6 may also be similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 30. Referring to FIG. 30, the AMF 4 includes a network interface 3001, a processor 3002, and a memory 3003.

[0205] The network interface 3001 is used, for example, to communicate with other network functions (NFs) or nodes, and may include, for example, a network interface card (NIC) compliant with the IEEE 802.3 series.

[0206] The processor 3002 may be, for example, a microprocessor, an MPU, or a CPU. The processor 3002 may include multiple processors.

[0207] The memory 3003 is composed of volatile memory and nonvolatile memory. The memory 3003 may include a plurality of physically independent memory devices. The volatile memory is, for example, SRAM or DRAM, or a combination thereof. The nonvolatile memory is, for example, MROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or a hard disk drive, or any combination thereof. The memory 3003 may include storage located remotely from the processor 3002. In this case, the processor 3002 may access the memory 3003 via the network interface 3001 or the I / O interface.

[0208] The memory 3003 may store one or more software modules (computer programs) 3004 including instructions and data for performing processing by the AMF 4 described in the above-described embodiments. In some implementations, the processor 3002 may be configured to read and execute the software modules 3004 from the memory 3003, thereby performing the processing of the AMF 4 described in the above-described embodiments.

[0209] As described with reference to Figures 28, 29, and 30, each of the processors included in the UE 1, gNB 2, AMF 4, LMF 5, and RIC 6 according to the above-described embodiments can execute one or more programs including instructions for causing a computer to perform the algorithms described with reference to the drawings. The programs include instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The programs may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium or a tangible storage medium. By way of example and not limitation, computer-readable media or tangible storage media include random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD) or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disk (DVD), Blu-ray (registered trademark) disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage device. The programs may also be transmitted on a transitory computer-readable medium or a communication medium. By way of example, and not limitation, transitory computer-readable or communication media include electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0210] The above-described embodiments are merely examples of application of the technical ideas obtained by the inventors of the present invention. In other words, the technical ideas are not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible.

[0211] For example, some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as, but are not limited to, the following appendices. Some or all of the elements (e.g., configurations and functions) described in appendices directed to apparatuses (e.g., RAN nodes, core network nodes, wireless terminals) may naturally also be described as appendices directed to methods and programs. For example, some or all of the elements described in appendices 2-13, which are dependent on appendices 1, may also be described as appendices dependent on appendices 22 and 24, due to the same dependency relationship as appendices 2-13. Similarly, some or all of the elements described in appendices 15-21, which are dependent on appendices 14, may also be described as appendices dependent on appendices 23 and 25, due to the same dependency relationship as appendices 15-21. Some or all of the elements described in any appendice may be applicable to various hardware, software, recording means for recording software, systems, and methods.

[0212] (Supplementary Note 1) A radio access network node comprising means for transmitting information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) to a core network. (Supplementary Note 2) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 3) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the information specifies a pattern of the cell DTX or a pattern of the cell DTX configured in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 4) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 1, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 5) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 4, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal includes one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal. (Supplementary Note 6) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 7) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 1 to 6, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the information to a location server disposed in the core network and managing positioning of one or more radio terminals via another core network node in the core network. (Supplementary Note 8) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 7, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary Note 9) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 1 to 8, further comprising means for receiving from the core network configuration information indicating whether it is allowed to stop transmission of a specific downlink signal during an inactive time of the cell DTX.(Supplementary Note 10) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 1 to 9, further comprising: means for receiving, from the core network, configuration information indicating whether it is permitted to stop transmission of a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time. (Supplementary Note 11) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 1 to 10, further comprising: means for receiving, from the core network, a request to stop the cell DTX or the cell DRX. (Supplementary Note 12) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 1 to 11, further comprising: means for receiving, from the core network, a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink signal during the cell DTX inactive time. (Supplementary Note 13) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 1 to 12, further comprising: means for receiving, from the core network, a request to resume or continue transmission of a specific uplink signal during the cell DRX inactive time. (Supplementary Note 14) A core network node comprising means for receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) from a radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 15) The core network node of Supplementary Note 14, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 16) The core network node of Supplementary Note 14, wherein the information specifies a pattern of the cell DTX or a pattern of the cell DTX configured in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 17) The core network node of Supplementary Note 14, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 18) The core network node of Supplementary Note 17, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal includes one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal.(Supplementary Note 19) A core network node according to Supplementary Note 14, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 20) A core network node according to any one of Supplements 14 to 19, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of one or more radio terminals communicating with the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 21) A core network node according to Supplementary Note 20, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary Note 22) A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising transmitting information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) to a core network. (Supplementary Note 23) A method performed by a core network node, comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) from a radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 24) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising transmitting information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both to a core network. (Supplementary Note 25) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both from a radio access network node.(Supplementary Note 26) A core network node comprising means for providing information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) of a neighboring cell to a radio terminal via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell of the radio terminal. (Supplementary Note 27) The core network node of Supplementary Note 26, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary Note 28) The core network node of Supplementary Note 26, wherein the information specifies a pattern of the cell DTX or a pattern of the cell DTX configured in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary Note 29) The core network node of Supplementary Note 26, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary Note 30) The core network node of Supplementary Note 29, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal includes one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal. (Supplementary note 31) The core network node according to Supplementary note 26, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary note 32) The core network node according to any one of Supplements 26 to 31, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of the radio terminal. (Supplementary note 33) The core network node according to Supplementary note 32, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary note 34) The core network node according to Supplementary note 32 or 33, wherein the providing means is adapted to send the information to the radio terminal via an LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) ProvideAssistanceData message or via a positioning System Information message.(Supplementary Note 35) A radio terminal comprising means for receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both, of a neighboring cell from a core network node via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell. (Supplementary Note 36) The radio terminal of Supplementary Note 35, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary Note 37) The radio terminal of Supplementary Note 35, wherein the information specifies a pattern of the cell DTX configured in the neighboring cell or a pattern of the cell DTX. (Supplementary Note 38) The radio terminal of Supplementary Note 35, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary Note 39) The radio terminal of Supplementary Note 38, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal includes one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal. (Supplementary Note 40) The radio terminal according to Supplementary Note 35, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in the neighboring cell. (Supplementary Note 41) The radio terminal according to any one of Supplements 35 to 40, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of the radio terminal. (Supplementary Note 42) The radio terminal according to Supplementary Note 41, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary Note 43) The radio terminal according to Supplementary Note 41 or 42, wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the information from the core network node via a LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) ProvideAssistanceData message or via a positioning System Information message.(Supplementary Note 44) A method performed by a core network node, comprising providing, to a radio terminal, information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both, of neighboring cells via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell of the radio terminal. (Supplementary Note 45) A method performed by a radio terminal, comprising receiving, from a core network node via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell, information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both, of neighboring cells. (Supplementary Note 46) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising providing, to a radio terminal, information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both, of neighboring cells via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell of the radio terminal. (Supplementary Note 47) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a wireless terminal, the method comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) of a neighboring cell from a core network node via a radio access network node providing a serving cell. (Supplementary Note 48) A core network node comprising means for transmitting, to the radio access network node, first configuration information indicating whether or not transmission of a specific downlink signal is permitted to stop during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) of a cell provided by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 49) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 48, wherein the specific downlink signal includes a downlink positioning signal.(Supplementary Note 50) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 48 or 49, wherein the transmitting means is further adapted to transmit, to the radio access network node, second configuration information indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmission of a specific uplink signal during a cell discontinuous reception (DRX) inactive time of the cell. (Supplementary Note 51) The core network node according to any one of Supplements 48 to 50, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of one or more radio terminals communicating with the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 52) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 51, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary Note 53) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 51 or 52, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first configuration information to the radio access network node via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message. (Supplementary Note 54) A radio access network node comprising means for receiving from a core network first configuration information indicating whether it is permitted to stop transmission of specific downlink signals during inactive times of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) of a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 55) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 54, wherein the specific downlink signals include downlink positioning signals. (Supplementary Note 56) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 54 or 55, wherein the receiving means is further adapted to receive from the core network second configuration information indicating whether it is permitted to stop transmission of specific uplink signals during inactive times of cell discontinuous reception (DRX) of the cell.57. The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 54 to 56, wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first configuration information from a location server disposed in the core network and managing positioning of one or more radio terminals via another core network node in the core network. 58. The radio access network node according to Supplement 57, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). 59. The radio access network node according to Supplement 57 or 58, wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first configuration information via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message. ... (Supplementary Note 61) A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising receiving, from a core network, first configuration information indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmission of a specific downlink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) of a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 62) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising sending, to a radio access network node, first configuration information indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmission of a specific downlink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) of a cell served by the radio access network node.(Supplementary Note 63) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising receiving, from a core network, first configuration information indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmission of a specific downlink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) of a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 64) A core network node comprising means for sending, to a radio access network node, a first request to stop cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 65) The core network node of Supplementary Note 64, wherein the means for sending is adapted to send the first request in response to a request for an emergency call from a radio terminal camped in the cell. (Supplementary Note 66) The core network node of Supplementary Note 64, wherein the means for sending is adapted to send the first request in response to a request for an emergency call from a radio terminal camped in a cell adjacent to the cell. (Supplementary Note 67) The core network node of Supplementary Note 64, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio terminal camped in the cell. (Supplementary Note 68) The core network node of Supplementary Note 64, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio terminal camped in a cell adjacent to the cell. (Supplementary Note 69) The core network node of Supplementary Note 64, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 70) The core network node of Supplementary Note 64, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio access network node different from the radio access network node.(Supplementary Note 71) The core network node according to any one of Supplements 64 to 70, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of one or more radio terminals communicating with the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 72) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 71, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary Note 73) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 71 or 72, wherein the first request is a request for deactivation of the cell DTX, and wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request to the radio access network node via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message. (Supplementary Note 74) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 71 or 72, wherein the first request is a request for deactivation of the cell DRX, and wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request to the radio access network node via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message. (Supplementary Note 75) A radio access network node comprising: means for receiving from a core network a first request for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 76) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 75, wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request from a location server disposed in the core network and managing positioning of one or more radio terminals via another core network node in the core network. (Supplementary Note 77) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 76, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).78. The radio access network node of claim 76 or 77, wherein the first request is a request for deactivating the cell DTX, and wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message. 79. The radio access network node of claim 76 or 77, wherein the first request is a request for deactivating the cell DRX, and wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message. 70. A method performed by a core network node, comprising: sending to a radio access network node a first request for deactivating cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 81) A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising receiving from a core network a first request to stop cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 82) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising sending to a radio access network node a first request to stop cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.(Supplementary Note 83) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising receiving from a core network a first request to stop cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 84) A core network node comprising means for sending to a radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 85) A core network node according to Supplementary Note 84, wherein the first request requests the radio access network node to continue transmitting the specific downlink or uplink signal even during the inactive time. (Supplementary Note 86) The core network node of Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is further adapted to transmit to the radio access network node a second request to stop transmission of the particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of the cell DTX or cell DRX in the cell. (Supplementary Note 87) The core network node of Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to an emergency call request from a radio terminal camped in the cell. (Supplementary Note 88) The core network node of Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to an emergency call request from a radio terminal camped in a cell adjacent to the cell. (Supplementary Note 89) The core network node of Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio terminal camped in the cell.(Supplementary Note 90) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio terminal camped in a neighboring cell of the cell. (Supplementary Note 91) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 92) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 84 or 85, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio access network node different from the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 93) The core network node according to any one of Supplements 84 to 92, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of one or more radio terminals communicating with the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 94) The core network node according to Supplementary Note 93, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary note 95) The core network node of any one of Supplementary notes 84 to 94, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal comprises a downlink positioning signal, and wherein the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the downlink positioning signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX. (Supplementary note 96) The core network node of Supplementary note 95, wherein the downlink positioning signal comprises a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS). (Supplementary note 97) The core network node of any one of Supplementary notes 84 to 94, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal comprises an uplink positioning signal, and wherein the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the uplink positioning signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX. (Supplementary note 98) The core network node of Supplementary note 97, wherein the uplink positioning signal comprises a Positioning Sounding Reference Signal (SRS).(Supplementary Note 99) A radio access network node comprising: means for receiving from a core network a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 100) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 99, wherein the first request requests the radio access network node to continue transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal even during the inactive time. (Supplementary Note 101) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 99 or 100, wherein the receiving means is further adapted to receive a second request to stop transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell DTX or cell DRX in the cell. (Supplementary Note 102) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 99 or 100, wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request from a location server arranged in the core network and managing positioning of one or more radio terminals via another core network node in the core network. (Supplementary Note 103) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 102, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF). (Supplementary Note 104) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplements 99 to 103, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal comprises a downlink positioning signal, and the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the downlink positioning signal during an inactive time of the cell DTX. (Supplementary Note 105) The radio access network node according to Supplementary Note 104, wherein the downlink positioning signal comprises a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS).(Supplementary Note 106) The radio access network node of any one of Supplements 99 to 103, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal comprises an uplink positioning signal, and wherein the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the uplink positioning signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX. (Supplementary Note 107) The radio access network node of Supplementary Note 106, wherein the uplink positioning signal comprises a Positioning Sounding Reference Signal (SRS). (Supplementary Note 108) A method performed by a core network node, comprising sending to a radio access network node a first request for resumption or continuation of transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 109) A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising receiving from a core network a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 110) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising sending to a radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.(Supplementary Note 111) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising receiving from a core network a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node. (Supplementary Note 112) A wireless terminal comprising means for sending to a serving radio access network node the first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX). (Supplementary Note 113) The wireless terminal of Supplementary Note 112, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 114) The wireless terminal of Supplementary note 112 or 113, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal in a serving cell be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 115) The wireless terminal of any one of Supplements 112 to 114, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal in a neighboring cell be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 116) The wireless terminal of Supplementary note 112 or 113, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal by a serving Transmission Reception Point (TRP) be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 117) The wireless terminal of any one of Supplements 112, 113 and 116, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal by the serving TRP and neighboring TRPs be continued even during the inactive time.(Supplementary note 118) The wireless terminal of any one of Supplements 112 to 117, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal includes a downlink positioning signal, and the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the downlink positioning signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX. (Supplementary note 119) The wireless terminal of Supplementary note 118, wherein the downlink positioning signal includes a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS). (Supplementary note 120) The wireless terminal of any one of Supplements 112 to 117, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal includes an uplink positioning signal, and the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the uplink positioning signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX. (Supplementary note 121) The wireless terminal of Supplementary note 120, wherein the uplink positioning signal includes a Positioning Sounding Reference Signal (SRS). (Supplementary note 122) A radio access network node comprising means for receiving from a wireless terminal a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX). (Supplementary note 123) The radio access network node of Supplementary note 122, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 124) The radio access network node of Supplementary note 122 or 123, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal in a serving cell be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 125) The radio access network node of any one of Supplements 122 to 124, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal in a neighboring cell be continued even during the inactive time.(Supplementary note 126) The radio access network node of Supplementary note 122 or 123, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal by a serving Transmission Reception Point (TRP) be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 127) The radio access network node of any one of Supplements 122, 123 and 126, wherein the first request requests that transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal by the serving TRP and neighboring TRPs be continued even during the inactive time. (Supplementary note 128) The radio access network node of any one of Supplements 122 to 127, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal comprises a downlink positioning signal, and the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the downlink positioning signal during the inactive time of the cell DTX. (Supplementary note 129) The radio access network node of Supplementary note 128, wherein the downlink positioning signal comprises a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS). (Supplementary note 130) The radio access network node of any one of Supplements 122 to 127, wherein the specific downlink or uplink signal comprises an uplink positioning signal, and wherein the first request requests resumption or continuation of transmission of the uplink positioning signal during the cell DRX inactive time. (Supplementary note 131) The radio access network node of Supplementary note 130, wherein the uplink positioning signal comprises a Positioning Sounding Reference Signal (SRS). (Supplementary note 132) The radio access network node of any one of Supplements 122 to 131, further comprising means for transmitting, in response to receiving the first request, to a neighbouring radio access network node, a second request for resumption or continuation of transmission of the specific downlink or uplink signal during cell DTX or cell DRX inactive time in a neighbouring cell.(Supplementary Note 133) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplementary Notes 122 to 131, further comprising: means for transmitting, in response to receiving the first request, to a core network, a second request to resume or continue transmission of the particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of the cell DTX or cell DRX. (Supplementary Note 134) The radio access network node according to any one of Supplementary Notes 122 to 131, further comprising: means for transmitting, in response to receiving the first request, to an Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) server or a Radio Access Network (RAN) Intelligent Controller (RIC), a second request to resume or continue transmission of the particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of the cell DTX or cell DRX. (Supplementary Note 135) A method performed by a wireless terminal, comprising sending to a serving radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX). (Supplementary Note 136) A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising receiving from a wireless terminal a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX). (Supplementary Note 137) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a wireless terminal, the method comprising sending to a serving radio access network node a first request to resume or continue transmission of a specific downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX).(Supplementary Note 138) A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising receiving a first request from a wireless terminal to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal during an inactive time of cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX).

[0213] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-166466, filed on September 27, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0214] 1 UE 2 gNB 3 5GC 4 AMF 5 LMF 6 RIC 21 Cell 2803 Baseband processor 2804 Application processor 2806 Memory 2807 Modules 2904 Processor 2905 Memory 2906 Modules 3002 Processor 3003 Memory 3004 Modules

Claims

1. A radio access network node comprising: means for transmitting information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both to a core network.

2. A radio access network node as claimed in claim 1, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in a cell served by the radio access network node.

3. A radio access network node as claimed in claim 1, wherein the information specifies a pattern of the cell DTX or a pattern of the cell DTX configured for a cell served by the radio access network node.

4. The radio access network node according to claim 1, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured for a cell served by the radio access network node.

5. A radio access network node as claimed in claim 4, wherein the particular downlink or uplink signal comprises one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal.

6. A radio access network node as claimed in claim 1, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in a cell served by the radio access network node.

7. A radio access network node according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the information via another core network node in the core network to a location server arranged in the core network and managing the positioning of one or more radio terminals.

8. A radio access network node according to claim 7, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).

9. A radio access network node according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising means for receiving configuration information from the core network indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting certain downlink signals during an inactive time of the cell DTX.

10. A radio access network node according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising means for receiving configuration information from the core network indicating whether or not it is permitted to stop transmitting a particular uplink signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX.

11. A radio access network node according to any preceding claim, further comprising means for receiving a request for stopping the cell DTX or the cell DRX from the core network.

12. A radio access network node according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising means for receiving from the core network a request to resume or continue transmission of a particular downlink signal during an inactive time of the cell DTX.

13. A radio access network node according to any preceding claim, further comprising means for receiving from the core network a request to resume or continue transmission of a particular uplink signal during an inactive time of the cell DRX.

14. A core network node comprising: means for receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both from a radio access network node.

15. A core network node according to claim 14, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in a cell served by the radio access network node.

16. A core network node according to claim 14, wherein the information specifies the cell DTX pattern or the cell DTX pattern configured for a cell served by the radio access network node.

17. A core network node according to claim 14, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured for a cell served by the radio access network node.

18. A core network node as claimed in claim 17, wherein the particular downlink or uplink signal comprises one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal.

19. A core network node according to claim 14, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in a cell served by the radio access network node.

20. A core network node according to any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of one or more wireless terminals communicating with the radio access network node.

21. The core network node according to claim 20, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).

22. A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising transmitting information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both to a core network.

23. A method performed by a core network node, comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both from a radio access network node.

24. A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising transmitting information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both to a core network.

25. A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both from a radio access network node.

26. A core network node comprising: means for providing information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) of neighbouring cells to a radio terminal via a radio access network node providing a serving cell of said radio terminal.

27. A core network node according to claim 26, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is configured in the neighboring cell.

28. A core network node according to claim 26, wherein the information identifies a pattern of the cell DTX or a pattern of the cell DTX configured in the neighbouring cell.

29. A core network node according to claim 26, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX configured in the neighboring cell.

30. A core network node as claimed in claim 29, wherein the particular downlink or uplink signal comprises one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal.

31. A core network node according to claim 26, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in the neighboring cell.

32. A core network node according to any one of claims 26 to 31, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of the wireless terminal.

33. The core network node according to claim 32, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).

34. A core network node according to claim 32 or 33, wherein the providing means is adapted to send the information to the radio terminal via a LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) ProvideAssistanceData message or via a positioning System Information message.

35. A wireless terminal comprising: means for receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) and / or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) of neighboring cells from a core network node via a radio access network node providing a serving cell.

36. The wireless terminal according to claim 35, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is set in the neighboring cell.

37. The radio terminal according to claim 35, wherein the information identifies the cell DTX pattern or the cell DTX pattern set in the neighboring cell.

38. The wireless terminal according to claim 35, wherein the information indicates whether transmission of a particular downlink or uplink signal is stopped during an inactive period of the cell DTX or cell DRX set in the neighboring cell.

39. The wireless terminal of claim 38, wherein the particular downlink or uplink signal includes one or both of a downlink positioning signal and an uplink positioning signal.

40. The wireless terminal of claim 35, wherein the information indicates whether the cell DTX or the cell DRX is activated in the neighboring cell.

41. The wireless terminal according to any one of claims 35 to 40, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of the wireless terminal.

42. The wireless terminal of claim 41, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).

43. A radio terminal according to claim 41 or 42, wherein said receiving means is adapted to receive said information from said core network node via a LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) ProvideAssistanceData message or via a positioning System Information message.

44. A method performed by a core network node, comprising providing information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both of neighbouring cells to a radio terminal via a radio access network node providing a serving cell for said radio terminal.

45. A method performed by a wireless terminal, comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) or both of neighbouring cells from a core network node via a radio access network node providing a serving cell.

46. ​​A program causing a computer to execute a method for a core network node, the method comprising providing information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both, of neighboring cells to a wireless terminal via a radio access network node that provides a serving cell for the wireless terminal.

47. A program causing a computer to execute a method for a wireless terminal, the method comprising receiving information about cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX), or both, of a neighboring cell from a core network node via a radio access network node providing a serving cell.

48. A core network node comprising: means for transmitting to a radio access network node a first request for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by said radio access network node.

49. A core network node according to claim 48, wherein said means for transmitting is adapted to transmit said first request in response to a request for an emergency call from a wireless terminal camped on said cell.

50. A core network node according to claim 48, wherein said means for transmitting is adapted to transmit said first request in response to a request for an emergency call from a wireless terminal camped in a cell adjacent to said cell.

51. A core network node according to claim 48, wherein said means for transmitting is adapted to transmit said first request in response to a request from a radio terminal camped on said cell.

52. A core network node according to claim 48, wherein said means for transmitting is adapted to transmit said first request in response to a request from a radio terminal camped on a neighboring cell of said cell.

53. A core network node according to claim 48, wherein the means for transmitting is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from the radio access network node.

54. A core network node according to claim 48, wherein the means for transmitting is adapted to transmit the first request in response to a request from a radio access network node different from the radio access network node.

55. A core network node according to any one of claims 48 to 54, wherein the core network node is a location server that manages positioning of one or more wireless terminals communicating with the radio access network node.

56. The core network node according to claim 55, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).

57. A core network node according to claim 55 or 56, wherein the first request is a request for stopping the cell DTX, and the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request to the radio access network node via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message.

58. A core network node according to claim 55 or 56, wherein the first request is a request for stopping the cell DRX, and the transmitting means is adapted to transmit the first request to the radio access network node via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message.

59. A radio access network node, comprising: means for receiving from a core network a first request for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.

60. A radio access network node according to claim 59, wherein the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request from a location server located in the core network and managing positioning of one or more radio terminals via another core network node in the core network.

61. A radio access network node according to claim 60, wherein the location server is a Location Management Function (LMF).

62. A radio access network node according to claim 59 or 60, wherein the first request is a request for stopping the cell DTX, and the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) PRS CONFIGURATION REQUEST message.

63. A radio access network node according to claim 59 or 60, wherein the first request is a request to stop the cell DRX, and the receiving means is adapted to receive the first request via an NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) POSITIONING ACTIVATION REQUEST message.

64. A method performed by a core network node, comprising sending to a radio access network node a first request for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.

65. A method performed by a radio access network node, comprising receiving a first request from a core network for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.

66. A program causing a computer to perform a method for a core network node, the method comprising sending to a radio access network node a first request for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.

67. A program causing a computer to perform a method for a radio access network node, the method comprising receiving a first request from a core network for stopping cell discontinuous transmission (DTX) or cell discontinuous reception (DRX) in a cell served by the radio access network node.

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