Resuming radio resource management measurements

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging a configuration enabling resuming of RRM measurements. Transmitting a first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability. Receiving a second indication to skip RRM measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving a first scheduling indication. Receiving first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting a first HARQ response corresponding to the first data. Receiving a third indication to resume RRM measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving a second scheduling indication. Receiving second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting a second HARQ response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, RRM measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

Description

[0001] RESUMING RADIO RESOURCE MANAGEMENT MEASUREMENTS

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] Various example embodiments described herein relate to the field of wireless communications.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Wireless communication using radio resource management measurements may enable skipping measurements on one or more measurement opportunities. Enabling a possibility to revert a skipping decision or resume measurements that have been indicated to be skipped may provide more efficient data transmission or reception.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0008] Example embodiments of the present disclosure may enable improving data transmission or reception. This benefit may be achieved by the features of the independent claims. Further example embodiments are provided in the dependent claims, the detailed description, and the drawings.

[0009] According to a first aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion. Such an apparatus may enable accurate estimation of the channel quality and state, efficient and accurate handover procedures with minimum service interruption due to link or beam failure recovery, and an efficient and low latency data reception.

[0010] According to an example embodiment of the first aspect, the at least one criterion may comprise the second hybrid automatic repeat request response being a positive acknowledgement. Such an apparatus may enable making a revert decision based on the transmitted positive acknowledgement.

[0011] According to an example embodiment of the first aspect, the exchanged configuration may comprise a first time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements. Such an apparatus may enable reserving time needed for re-tuning the radio frequency interface.

[0012] According to an example embodiment of the first aspect, the second number indicating antenna ports per comb-offset value may be a pre-determined value.

[0013] According to an example embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the second indication and the first scheduling indication by receiving a single indication. The apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the third indication and the second scheduling indication by receiving a single indication.

[0014] According to an example embodiment of the first aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the first scheduling indication, and the second scheduling indication by receiving downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

[0015] According to a second aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication. Such an apparatus may enable accurate estimation of the channel quality and state, efficient and accurate handover procedures with minimum service interruption due to link or beam failure recovery, and efficient and low latency data transmission.

[0016] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the first criterion may comprise the apparatus receiving a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a positive acknowledgement. The second criterion may comprise the apparatus receiving the second hybrid automatic repeat request response, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a negative acknowledgement. Such an apparatus may comprise determining if the user device will resume radio resource management measurements based on the received second hybrid automatic repeat request response.

[0017] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the exchanged configuration may comprise a first time period for the user device to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements. The apparatus may be further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on at least one of the following: a time gap between the transmitting the second data and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period, a time gap between the transmitting the third indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period, or a time gap between a time instant of the determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period. Such an apparatus may enable allowing the user device time needed for re-tuning the radio frequency interface.

[0018] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on a status of a buffer containing data corresponding to the user device.

[0019] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: Determining that the user device is unavailable for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions based on as if a positive acknowledgement were received. According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: Determining that the user device is available for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, the third scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, the third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0020] According to an example embodiment of the second aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the transmitting the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the first scheduling indication, the second scheduling indication, and the third scheduling indication by transmitting downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

[0021] According to a third aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may be computer-implemented. The method may comprise: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

[0022] According to a fourth aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may be computer-implemented. The method may comprise: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0023] According to a fifth aspect, a computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium may comprise program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

[0024] According to a sixth aspect, a computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium may comprise program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0025] According to a seventh aspect, a computer program is disclosed. The computer program may comprise instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

[0026] According to an eighth aspect, a computer program is disclosed. The computer program may comprise instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0027] According to a ninth aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on one or more fractional gaps within a plurality of fractional gaps comprised in a subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on at least one fractional gap within the one or more fractional gaps. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurement on the at least one fractional gap.

[0028] According to an example embodiment of the ninth aspect, the at least one criterion may comprise the second hybrid automatic repeat request response being a positive acknowledgement.

[0029] According to an example embodiment of the ninth aspect, the exchanged configuration may comprise a first time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements. The apparatus may be further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on at least one of the following: a time gap between the receiving the second data and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period, a time gap between the receiving the third indication and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period, or a time gap between a time instant of the determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period.

[0030] According to an example embodiment of the ninth aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the second indication and the first scheduling indication by receiving a single indication. The apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the third indication and the second scheduling indication by receiving a single indication.

[0031] According to an example embodiment of the ninth aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the first scheduling indication, the second scheduling indication, and the third scheduling indication by receiving downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

[0032] According to a tenth aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise at least one processor, and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0033] According to an example embodiment of the tenth aspect, the first criterion may comprise the apparatus receiving a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a positive acknowledgement. The second criterion may comprise the apparatus receiving the second hybrid automatic repeat request response, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a negative acknowledgement.

[0034] According to an example embodiment of the tenth aspect, the exchanged configuration may comprise a first time period for the user device to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements. The apparatus may be further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on at least one of the following: a time gap between the transmitting the second data and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period, a time gap between the transmitting the third indication and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period, or a time gap between a time instant of the determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period.

[0035] According to an example embodiment of the tenth aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a status of a buffer containing data corresponding to the user device.

[0036] According to an example embodiment of the tenth aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: Determining that the user device is unavailable for scheduling in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on as if a positive acknowledgement were received.

[0037] According to an example embodiment of the tenth aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: Determining that the user device is available for scheduling in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. Transmitting, to the user device, the third scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0038] According to an example embodiment of the tenth aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the transmitting the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the fourth indication, and the fifth indication by transmitting downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

[0039] According to an eleventh aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may be computer-implemented. The method may comprise: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to one or more fractional gaps within a plurality of fractional gaps comprised in a subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to at least one fractional gap within the one or more fractional gaps. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurement in relation to the at least one fractional gap. According to a twelfth aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may be computer-implemented. The method may comprise: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0040] According to a thirteenth aspect, a computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium may comprise program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to one or more fractional gaps within a plurality of fractional gaps comprised in a subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to at least one fractional gap within the one or more fractional gaps. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurement in relation to the at least one fractional gap.

[0041] According to a fourteenth aspect, a computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium may comprise program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0042] According to a fifteenth aspect, a computer program is disclosed. The computer program may comprise instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to one or more fractional gaps within a plurality of fractional gaps comprised in a subsequent measurement occasion. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to at least one fractional gap within the one or more fractional gaps. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurement in relation to the at least one fractional gap.

[0043] According to a sixteenth aspect, a computer program is disclosed. The computer program may comprise instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements capability. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0044] According to a seventeenth aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions starting from an initial measurement occasion indicated by the ordinal number from measurement occasions within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions occurring at least the first time period after a pre-determined event.

[0045] According to an example embodiment of the seventeenth aspect, the at least one criterion may comprise the second hybrid automatic repeat request response being a positive acknowledgement.

[0046] According to an example embodiment of the seventeenth aspect, the first time period may correspond to a time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements.

[0047] According to an example embodiment of the seventeenth aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the second indication and the first scheduling indication by receiving a single indication. The apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the third indication and the second scheduling indication by receiving a single indication.

[0048] According to an example embodiment of the seventeenth aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the receiving the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the first scheduling indication, the second scheduling indication, and the third scheduling indication by receiving downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

[0049] According to an example embodiment of the seventeenth aspect, the predetermined event is one of: the transmitting the second hybrid automatic repeat request response or the receiving the third indication.

[0050] According to an eighteenth aspect, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, may cause the apparatus at least to perform: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0051] According to an example embodiment of the eighteenth aspect, the first criterion may comprise the apparatus receiving a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a positive acknowledgement. The second criterion may comprise the apparatus receiving the second hybrid automatic repeat request response, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a negative acknowledgement.

[0052] According to an example embodiment of the eighteenth aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device on at least one measurement occasion within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions based on a status of a buffer containing data corresponding to the user device.

[0053] According to an example embodiment of the eighteenth aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: Determining that the user device is unavailable for scheduling on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions based on as if a positive acknowledgement were received.

[0054] According to an example embodiment of the eighteenth aspect, the apparatus may be further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: Determining that the user device is available for scheduling on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, the third scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, the third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0055] According to an example embodiment of the eighteenth aspect, the apparatus may be caused to perform the transmitting the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the fourth indication, and the fifth indication by transmitting downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

[0056] According to a nineteenth aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may be computer-implemented. The method may comprise: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions starting from an initial measurement occasion indicated by the ordinal number from measurement occasions within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions occurring at least the first time period after a pre-determined event.

[0057] According to a twentieth aspect, a method is disclosed. The method may be computer-implemented. The method may comprise: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0058] According to a twenty-first aspect, a computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium may comprise program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions starting from an initial measurement occasion indicated by the ordinal number from measurement occasions within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions occurring at least the first time period after a pre-determined event.

[0059] According to a twenty-second aspect, a computer-readable medium is disclosed. The computer-readable medium may comprise program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0060] According to a twenty -third aspect, a computer program is disclosed. The computer program may comprise instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication. Receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data. Performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions starting from an initial measurement occasion indicated by the ordinal number from measurement occasions within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions occurring at least the first time period after a pre-determined event.

[0061] According to a twenty-fourth aspect, a computer program is disclosed. The computer program may comprise instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: Exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming radio resource management measurements, wherein the configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. Receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability with multiple measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising a first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication. Receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data. Transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprising the first number of measurement occasions. Transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication. Transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication. Performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasion, transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication, and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

[0062] Any example embodiment may be combined with one or more other example embodiments. Many of the attendant features will be more readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0063] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0064] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the example embodiments and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments and together with the description help to understand the example embodiments. In the drawings:

[0065] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplified wireless communication system;

[0066] FIG. 2 illustrates example functionalities of an apparatus according to an example embodiment;

[0067] FIG. 3 illustrates example functionalities of an apparatus according to an example embodiment;

[0068] FIG. 4 illustrates a signaling diagram according to an example embodiment; FIG. 5 illustrates a signaling diagram according to an example embodiment;

[0069] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of message exchange according to an example embodiment;

[0070] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of message exchange according to an example embodiment;

[0071] FIG. 8 illustrates an example of message exchange according to an example embodiment;

[0072] FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an apparatus according to an example embodiment; and

[0073] FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an apparatus according to an example embodiment.

[0074] Like references are used to designate like parts in the accompanying drawings.

[0075] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] Reference will now be made in detail to example embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The detailed description provided below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the present examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present example may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions of the example and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different examples.

[0077] Although the specification may refer to “an”, “one”, or “some” embodiment(s) in several locations, this does not necessarily mean that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature may not apply to other embodiments. Single features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments. Furthermore, words “comprising” and “including” should be understood as not limiting the described embodiments / examples to consist of only those features that have been mentioned and such embodiments / examples may contain also features / structures that have not been specifically mentioned.

[0078] Furthermore, although the numerative terminology, such as “first”, “second”, etc., may be used herein to describe various embodiments, elements, or features, it should be understood that these embodiments, elements, or features should not be limited by this numerative terminology. This numerative terminology is used herein only to distinguish one embodiment, element, or feature from another embodiment, element, or feature. For example, a first indication discussed below could be called a second indication, and vice versa, without departing from the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0079] In the following, different exemplifying embodiments will be described using, as an example of an access architecture to which the embodiments may be applied, a radio access architecture based on long term evolution advanced (LTE Advanced, LTE-A) or new radio (NR, 5G), without restricting the embodiments to such an architecture, however. The embodiments may also be applied to other kinds of communications networks having suitable means by adjusting parameters and procedures appropriately. Some examples of other options for suitable systems are the universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS) radio access network (UTRAN or E-UTRAN), long term evolution (LTE, the same as E-UTRA), wireless local area network (WiAN or WiFi), worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), Bluetooth®, personal communications services (PCS), ZigBee®, wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), systems using ultra-wideband (UWB) technology, sensor networks, mobile ad-hoc networks (MANETs) and Internet Protocol multimedia subsystems (IMS) or any combination thereof.

[0080] FIG. 1 depicts examples of simplified system architectures only showing some elements and functional entities, all being logical units, whose implementation may differ from what is shown. The connections shown in FIG. 1 are logical connections; the actual physical connections may be different. It is apparent to a person skilled in the art that the system typically comprises also other functions and structures than those shown in FIG. 1.

[0081] The embodiments are not, however, restricted to the system given as an example but a person skilled in the art may apply the solution to other communication systems provided with necessary properties.

[0082] The example of FIG. 1 shows a part of an exemplifying radio access network 100.

[0083] FIG. 1 shows user devices 101, 101’ configured to be in a wireless connection on one or more communication channels with a node 102. The node 102 is further connected to a core network 105. In one example, the node 102 may be an access node such as (e / g)NodeB providing or serving devices in a cell. In one example, the node 102 may be a non-3GPP access node. The physical link from a device to a (e / g)NodeB is called uplink or reverse link and the physical link from the (e / g)NodeB to the device is called downlink or forward link. It should be appreciated that (e / g)NodeBs or their functionalities may be implemented by using any node, host, server or access point etc. entity suitable for such a usage.

[0084] A communications system typically comprises more than one (e / g)NodeB in which case the (e / g)NodeBs may also be configured to communicate with one another over links, wired or wireless, designed for the purpose. These links may be used for signaling purposes. The (e / g)NodeB is a computing device configured to control the radio resources of communication system it is coupled to. The NodeB may also be referred to as a base station, an access point or any other type of interfacing device including a relay station capable of operating in a wireless environment. The (e / g)NodeB includes or is coupled to transceivers. From the transceivers of the (e / g)NodeB, a connection is provided to an antenna unit that establishes bi-directional radio links to devices. The antenna unit may comprise a plurality of antennas or antenna elements. The (e / g)NodeB is further connected to the core network 105 (CN or next generation core NGC). Depending on the system, the counterpart on the CN side can be a serving gateway (S-GW, routing and forwarding user data packets), packet data network gateway (P-GW), for providing connectivity of user devices (UEs) to external packet data networks, or mobile management entity (MME), or access and mobility management function (AMF), etc.

[0085] The user device (also called UE, user equipment, user terminal, terminal device, etc.) illustrates one type of an apparatus to which resources on the air interface are allocated and assigned, and thus any feature described herein with a user device may be implemented with a corresponding apparatus, such as a relay node. An example of such a relay node is a layer 3 relay (self-backhauling relay) towards the base station.

[0086] The user device typically refers to a device (e.g. a portable or nonportable computing device) that includes wireless mobile communication devices operating with or without a subscriber identification module (SIM), including, but not limited to, the following types of devices: a mobile station (mobile phone), smartphone, personal digital assistant (PDA), handset, device using a wireless modem (alarm or measurement device, etc.), laptop and / or touch screen computer, tablet, game console, notebook, and multimedia device. It should be appreciated that a device may also be a nearly exclusive uplink only device, of which an example is a camera or video camera loading images or video clips to a network. A device may also be a device having capability to operate in Internet of Things (loT) network which is a scenario in which objects are provided with the ability to transfer data over a network without requiring human-to-human or human-to-computer interaction, e.g., to be used in smart power grids and connected vehicles. The user device may also utilize cloud. In some applications, a user device may comprise a user portable device with radio parts (such as a watch, earphones, eyeglasses, other wearable accessories or wearables) and the computation is carried out in the cloud. The device (or in some embodiments a layer 3 relay node) is configured to perform one or more of user equipment functionalities. The user device may also be called a subscriber unit, mobile station, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal or user equipment (UE) just to mention but a few names or apparatuses.

[0087] Various techniques described herein may also be applied to a cyberphysical system (CPS) (a system of collaborating computational elements controlling physical entities). CPS may enable the implementation and exploitation of massive amounts of interconnected ICT devices (sensors, actuators, processors microcontrollers, etc.) embedded in physical objects at different locations. Mobile cyber physical systems, in which the physical system in question has inherent mobility, are a subcategory of cyber-physical systems. Examples of mobile physical systems include mobile robotics and electronics transported by humans or animals.

[0088] Additionally, although the apparatuses have been depicted as single entities, different units, processors and / or memory units (not all shown in FIG. 1) may be implemented.

[0089] 5G enables using multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, many more base stations or nodes than the LTE (a so-called small cell concept), including macro sites operating in co-operation with smaller stations and employing a variety of radio technologies depending on service needs, use cases and / or spectrum available. 5G mobile communications supports a wide range of use cases and related applications including video streaming, augmented reality, different ways of data sharing and various forms of machine type applications (such as (massive) machine-type communications (mMTC), including vehicular safety, different sensors and real-time control. 5G is expected to have multiple radio interfaces, namely below 6 GHz, cmWave and mmWave, and also being integrable with existing legacy radio access technologies, such as the LTE. Integration with the LTE may be implemented, at least in the early phase, as a system, where macro coverage is provided by the LTE and 5G radio interface access comes from small cells by aggregation to the LTE. In other words, 5G is planned to support both inter-RAT operability (such as LTE-5G) and inter-RI operability (inter-radio interface operability, such as below 6 GHz-cmWave, below 6 GHz-cmWave-mmWave). One of the concepts considered to be used in 5G networks is network slicing in which multiple independent and dedicated virtual sub-networks (network instances) may be created within the same infrastructure to run services that have different requirements on latency, reliability, throughput, and mobility.

[0090] The current architecture in LTE networks is fully distributed in the radio and fully centralized in the core network. The low latency applications and services in 5G require to bring the content close to the radio which leads to local break out and multi-access edge computing (MEC). 5G enables analytics and knowledge generation to occur at the source of the data. This approach requires leveraging resources that may not be continuously connected to a network such as laptops, smartphones, tablets, and sensors. MEC provides a distributed computing environment for application and service hosting. It also has the ability to store and process content in close proximity to cellular subscribers for faster response time. Edge computing covers a wide range of technologies such as wireless sensor networks, mobile data acquisition, mobile signature analysis, cooperative distributed peer-to-peer ad hoc networking and processing also classifiable as local cloud / fog computing and grid / mesh computing, dew computing, mobile edge computing, cloudlet, distributed data storage and retrieval, autonomic self-healing networks, remote cloud services, augmented and virtual reality, data caching, Internet of Things (massive connectivity and / or latency critical), critical communications (autonomous vehicles, traffic safety, real-time analytics, time-critical control, healthcare applications).

[0091] The communication system is also able to communicate with other networks, such as a public switched telephone network or the Internet 106, or utilize services provided by them. The communication network may also be able to support the usage of cloud services, for example at least part of core network operations may be carried out as a cloud service (this is depicted in FIG. 1 by “cloud” 107). The communication system may also comprise a central control entity, or a like, providing facilities for networks of different operators to cooperate for example in spectrum sharing.

[0092] The technology of Edge cloud may be brought into a radio access network (RAN) by utilizing network function virtualization (NVF) and software defined networking (SDN). Using the technology of edge cloud may mean access node operations to be carried out, at least partly, in a server, host or node operationally coupled to a remote radio head or base station comprising radio parts. It is also possible that node operations will be distributed among a plurality of servers, nodes, or hosts. Application of cloud RAN architecture enables RAN real time functions being carried out at the RAN side (in a distributed unit, DU 102) and non-real time functions being carried out in a centralized manner (in a centralized unit, CU 104).

[0093] It should also be understood that the distribution of labor between core network operations and base station operations may differ from that of the LTE or even be non-existent. Some other technology advancements probably to be used are Big Data and all-IP, which may change the way networks are being constructed and managed. 5G (or new radio, NR) networks are being designed to support multiple hierarchies, where MEC servers can be placed between the core and the base station or nodeB (gNB). It should be appreciated that MEC can be applied in 4G networks as well.

[0094] 5G may also utilize satellite communication to enhance or complement the coverage of 5G service, for example by providing backhauling. Possible use cases are providing service continuity for machine-to-machine (M2M) or Internet of Things (loT) devices or for passengers on board of vehicles, or ensuring service availability for critical communications, and future railway / maritime / aeronautical communications. Satellite communication may utilize geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite systems, but also low earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems, in particular mega-constellations (systems in which hundreds of (nano)satellites are deployed). Each satellite 103 in the megaconstellation may cover several satellite-enabled network entities that create on- ground cells. The on-ground cells may be created through an on-ground relay node 102 or by a gNB located on-ground or in a satellite.

[0095] It is obvious for a person skilled in the art that the depicted system is only an example of a part of a radio access system and in practice, the system may comprise a plurality of (e / g)NodeBs, the user device may have an access to a plurality of radio cells and the system may comprise also other apparatuses, such as physical layer relay nodes or other network elements, etc. At least one of the (e / g)NodeBs or may be a Home(e / g)NodeB. Additionally, in a geographical area of a radio communication system a plurality of different kinds of radio cells as well as a plurality of radio cells may be provided. Radio cells may be macro cells (or umbrella cells) which are large cells, usually having a diameter of up to tens of kilometers, or smaller cells such as micro-, femto- or picocells. The (e / g)NodeBs of FIG. 1 may provide any kind of these cells. A cellular radio system may be implemented as a multilayer network including several kinds of cells. Typically, in multilayer networks, one access node provides one kind of a cell or cells, and thus a plurality of (e / g)NodeBs are required to provide such a network structure.

[0096] For fulfilling the need for improving the deployment and performance of communication systems, the concept of “plug-and-play” (e / g)NodeBs has been introduced. Typically, a network which is able to use “plug-and-play” (e / g)NodeBs, includes, in addition to Home (e / g)NodeBs (H(e / g)NodeBs), a home node B gateway, or HNB-GW (not shown in FIG. 1). A HNB Gateway (HNB-GW), which is typically installed within an operator's network may aggregate traffic from a large number of HNBs back to a core network.

[0097] In 5G and 6G networks, and beyond, it is envisaged that a possibility to revert radio resource management (RRM) measurement skipping may be beneficial. An apparatus configured to skip RRM measurements may be configured to resume the RRM measurements, e.g., as described below with FIG. 2 to 8.

[0098] FIG. 2 illustrates example functionalities of an apparatus configured to skip and resume radio resource management (RRM) measurements. The apparatus may be a user device.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 2, a configuration enabling skipping and resuming of RRM measurements is exchanged in operation 201 with a network. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises a first time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform RRM measurements. The first time period may be, e.g., 5 milliseconds (ms) or less. A first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability is transmitted in operation 202 to the network. In an example embodiment, the first indication may be transmitted in a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element. A second indication to skip RRM measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion is received in operation 203 from the network. A measurement occasion may be understood as an occasion for performing measurements, such as, e.g., a measurement gap (MG) or synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel (SS / PBCH) block measurement timing configuration (SMTC) window. In an example embodiment, the second indication may be received in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. A first scheduling indication is received in operation 204 from the network. In an example embodiment, the first scheduling indication may be received in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. First data corresponding to the first scheduling indication is received in operation 205 from the network. A first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response is transmitted in operation 206 to the network. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0100] Referring to FIG. 2, a third indication to resume RRM measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion is received in operation 207 from the network. In an example embodiment, the third indication may be received in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the at least one subsequent measurement occasion is a next measurement occasion. A second scheduling indication is received in operation 208 from the network. In an example embodiment, the second scheduling indication may be received in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. Second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication is received in operation 209 from the network. A second HARQ response is transmitted in operation 210 to the network.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 2, it is determined in operation 211 whether at least one criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the at least one criterion may comprise the second HARQ response being a positive acknowledgement (ACK). If the at least one criterion is satisfied (operation 211 : yes), radio resource management measurements are performed in operation 212 on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and a time gap between the receiving the third indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeds the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period and a time gap between the receiving the second scheduling indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeds the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period and a time gap between the transmitting the second HARQ response and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeds the first time period. If the at least one criterion is not satisfied (operation 211 : no), the RRM measurements are skipped in operation 213.

[0102] In an example embodiment, the apparatus supports partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. In this example embodiment, measurement occasions are split or divided into a plurality of fractional gaps. This example functionality of the apparatus may be illustrated with FIG. 2. The apparatus may be a user device.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 2, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements is exchanged in operation 201. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises a first time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform RRM measurements. A first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of RRM measurements capability is transmitted in operation 202 to the network. In an example embodiment, the first indication may be transmitted in a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element. A second indication to skip RRM measurements on or in relation to one or more fractional gaps within a plurality of fractional gaps comprised in a subsequent measurement occasion is received in operation 203 from the network. In an example embodiment, performing RRM measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps may be understood as performing the RRM measurements on the one or more fractional gaps. The second indication comprises information of which subset of fractional gaps within the plurality of fractional gaps the user device skips RRM measurements in relation to and which remaining subset of fractional gaps within the plurality of fractional gaps the user device performs RRM measurements in relation to. In an example embodiment, the second indication may comprise an indication to skip RRM measurements on or in relation to the plurality of fractional gaps. A relation to a fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the second indication may be received in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. A first scheduling indication is received in operation 204 from the network. In an example embodiment, the first scheduling indication may be received in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. First data corresponding to the first scheduling indication is received in operation 205 from the network. A first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response is transmitted in operation 206 to the network. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0104] Referring to FIG. 2, a third indication to resume RRM measurements on or in relation to at least one fractional gap within the one or more fractional gaps is received in operation 207 from the network. In an example embodiment, the third indication may comprise an indication to resume RRM measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. In an example embodiment, the third indication may be received in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. A second scheduling indication is received in operation 208 from the network. In an example embodiment, the second scheduling indication may be received in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. Second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication is received in operation 209 from the network. A second HARQ response is transmitted in operation 210 to the network.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 2, it is determined in operation 211 whether at least one criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the at least one criterion may comprise the second HARQ response being a positive acknowledgement (ACK). If the at least one criterion is satisfied (operation 211 : yes), radio resource management measurements are performed in operation 212 in relation to the at least one fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the receiving the third indication and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. A relation to a fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the receiving the second scheduling indication and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. In this context, the at least one fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the at least one fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the receiving the second data and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. In this context, the at least one fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the at least one fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the transmitting the second HARQ response and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. In this context, the at least one fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the at least one fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the determining that RRM measurements are resumed and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. In this context, the at least one fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the at least one fractional gap. If the at least one criterion is not satisfied (operation 211 : no), the RRM measurements are skipped in operation 213 in relation to the one or more fractional gaps within the plurality of fractional gaps. In an example embodiment, the apparatus supports skipping of radio resource management measurements on multiple measurement occasions. This example functionality of the apparatus may be illustrated with FIG. 2. The apparatus may be a user device.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 2, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements is exchanged in operation 201. The configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. In an example embodiment, the first time period corresponds to a time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform RRM measurements. The ordinal number may be understood as indicating which measurement occasion to resume RRM measurements on. In yet another example embodiment, the ordinal number may be understood as a number of bits in a bitmap included in an indication to skip and in an indication to resume. Each bit in the bitmap may be understood as indicating which subsequent measurement occasion to resume RRM measurement on (e.g., bit equal to 0) and which subsequent measurement occasion to skip (e.g., bit equal to 1). A first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability is transmitted in operation 202 to the network. In an example embodiment, the first indication may be transmitted in a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element. A second indication to skip RRM measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions is received in operation 203 from the network. The first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprises a first number of measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, the second indication may be received in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. A first scheduling indication is received in operation 204 from the network. In an example embodiment, the first scheduling indication may be received in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. First data corresponding to the first scheduling indication is received in operation 205 from the network. A first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response is transmitted in operation 206 to the network. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK). Referring to FIG. 2, a third indication to resume RRM measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions is received in operation 207 from the network. The second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprises the first number of measurement occasions. The first set of subsequent measurement occasions and the second set of subsequent measurement occasions may be understood as sets of measurement occasions occurring within a sliding window containing the same number (the first number) of measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, a subset of the second set of subsequent measurement occasions is a subset of the first set of subsequent measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, the second set of subsequent measurement occasions is the first set of measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, the third indication may be received in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. A second scheduling indication is received in operation 208 from the network. In an example embodiment, the second scheduling indication may be received in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. Second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication is received in operation

[0107] 209 from the network. A second HARQ response is transmitted in operation

[0108] 210 to the network.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 2, it is determined in operation 211 whether at least one criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the at least one criterion may comprise the second HARQ response being a positive acknowledgement (ACK). If the at least one criterion is satisfied (operation 211 : yes), radio resource management measurements are performed in operation 212 within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions starting from an initial measurement occasion indicated by the ordinal number from measurement occasions within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions occurring at least the first time period after a pre-determined event. That is, RRM measurements may be resumed on those measurement occasions within the second set of subsequent measurement occasions that do not occur during the first time period after the pre-determined event. In an example embodiment, the pre-determined event is the transmitting the second HARQ response. In another example embodiment, the pre-determined event is the receiving the third indication. In another example embodiment, the pre-determined event is the receiving the second scheduling indication. In another example embodiment, the pre-determined event is the receiving the second data. If the at least one criterion is not satisfied (operation 211 : no), the RRM measurements are skipped in operation 213 on the first set of subsequent measurement occasions.

[0110] FIG. 3 illustrates example functionalities of an apparatus configured to indicate to a user device to skip and resume radio resource management (RRM) measurements. The apparatus may comprise one or more network elements such as an access node.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 3, a configuration enabling skipping and resuming of RRM measurements is exchanged in operation 301 with a user device. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises a first time period for the user device to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform RRM measurement. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on a time gap between the transmitting the third indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on a time gap between the transmitting the second scheduling indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on a time gap between the transmitting the second data and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on a time gap between the determining that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 3, a first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability is received in operation 302 from the user device. In an example embodiment, the first indication may be received in a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element. A second indication to skip RRM measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion is transmitted in operation 303 to the user device. A measurement occasion may be understood as an occasion for performing measurements, such as, e.g., a measurement gap (MG) or synchronization signal / physical broadcast channel (SS / PBCH) block measurement timing configuration (SMTC) window. In an example embodiment, the second indication may be transmitted in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. A first scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 304 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the first scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication may be transmitted as a single indication. First data corresponding to the first scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 305 from the network. A first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response is received in operation 306 from the user device. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 3, a third indication to resume RRM measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion is transmitted in operation 307 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the third indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the at least one subsequent measurement occasion is a next measurement occasion. A second scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 308 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the second scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication may be transmitted as a single indication. Second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 309 to the user device.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 3, it is determined in operation 310 whether a first criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the first criterion may comprise receiving a second HARQ response corresponding to the second data from the user device, wherein the second HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement. If the first criterion is satisfied (operation 310: yes), scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion are applied in operation 311 to the user device. If the first criterion is not satisfied (operation 310: no), it is determined in operation 312 whether a second criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the second criterion may comprise receiving the second HARQ response from the user device, wherein the second HARQ response is a negative acknowledgement (NACK). If the second criterion is satisfied (operation 312: yes), scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion are relaxed in operation 313 to the user device. Relaxing scheduling restrictions may be understood as not applying scheduling restrictions. Then a third scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 314 to the user device and third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 315 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the third scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. If the second criterion is not satisfied (operation 312: no), the user device’s availability for scheduling is determined in operation 316. In an example embodiment, the determining the user device’s availability, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied, may comprise that the user device is determined to be unavailable for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Then scheduling restrictions are applied (operation 311) to the user device based on as if a positive acknowledgement (ACK) were received. In another example embodiment, the determining the user device’s availability, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied, may comprise that the user device is determined to be available for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion. Then the third scheduling indication is transmitted (operation 314) to the user device, and the third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication is transmitted (operation 315) to the user device.

[0115] In an example embodiment, the user device supports partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements. In this example embodiment, measurement occasions are split into a plurality of fractional gaps. This example functionality of the apparatus may be illustrated with FIG. 3. The apparatus may comprise one or more network elements such as an access node.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 3, a configuration enabling partial skipping and partial resuming of radio resource management measurements is exchanged in operation 301. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises a first time period for the user device to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform RRM measurements. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one measurement occasion based on a time gap between the transmitting the third indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device on or in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the transmitting the second scheduling indication and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the transmitting the second data and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. In an example embodiment, the configuration comprises the first time period, and it is further determined that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on a time gap between the determining that RRM measurements are resumed by the user device and the at least one fractional gap exceeding the first time period. A relation to a fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the fractional gap- Referring to FIG. 3, a first indication of partial skipping and partial resuming of RRM measurements capability is received in operation 302 from the user device. In an example embodiment, the first indication may be received in a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element. A second indication to skip RRM measurements in relation to one or more fractional gaps within a plurality of fractional gaps comprised in a subsequent measurement occasion is transmitted in operation 303 to the user device. The second indication comprises information of which subset of fractional gaps within the plurality of fractional gaps the user device skips RRM measurements in relation to and which remaining subset of fractional gaps within the plurality of fractional gaps the user device performs RRM measurements in relation to. In an example embodiment, the second indication may comprise an indication to skip RRM measurements in relation to the plurality of fractional gaps. A relation to a fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the second indication may be transmitted in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. A first scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 304 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the first scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication may be transmitted as a single indication. First data corresponding to the first scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 305 from the network. A first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response is received in operation 306 from the user device. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0117] Referring to FIG. 3, a third indication to resume RRM measurements in relation to at least one fractional gap within the one or more fractional gaps is transmitted in operation 307 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the third indication may comprise an indication to resume RRM measurements in relation to the one or more fractional gaps. A relation to a fractional gap may be considered as a beginning of, a start of, or a time slot preceding the fractional gap. In an example embodiment, the third indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. A second scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 308 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the second scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication may be transmitted as a single indication. Second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 309 to the user device.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 3, it is determined in operation 310 whether a first criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the first criterion may comprise receiving a second HARQ response corresponding to the second data from the user device, wherein the second HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement. If the first criterion is satisfied (operation 310: yes), scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap are applied in operation 311 to the user device. If the first criterion is not satisfied (operation 310: no), it is determined in operation 312 whether a second criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the second criterion may comprise receiving the second HARQ response from the user device, wherein the second HARQ response is a negative acknowledgement (NACK). If the second criterion is satisfied (operation 312: yes), scheduling restrictions in relation to the at least one fractional gap are relaxed in operation 313 to the user device. Then a third scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 314 to the user device and third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 315 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the third scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. If the second criterion is not satisfied (operation 312: no), the user device’s availability for scheduling is determined in operation 316. In an example embodiment, the determining the user device’s availability, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied, may comprise that the user device is determined to be unavailable for scheduling in relation to the at least one fractional gap. Then scheduling restrictions are applied (operation 311) to the user device in relation to the at least one fractional gap based on as if a positive acknowledgement (ACK) were received. In another example embodiment, the determining the user device’s availability, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied, may comprise that the user device is determined to be available for scheduling in relation to one or more fractional gaps. Then the third scheduling indication is transmitted (operation 314) to the user device, and the third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication is transmitted (operation 315) to the user device.

[0119] In an example embodiment, the user device supports skipping of radio resource management measurements on multiple measurement occasions. This example functionality of the apparatus may be illustrated with FIG. 3. The apparatus may comprise one or more network elements such as an access node.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 3, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements is exchanged in operation 301. The configuration comprises a first time period and an ordinal number. In an example embodiment, the first time period corresponds to a time period for the user device to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform RRM measurements. The ordinal number may be understood as indicating which measurement occasion to resume RRM measurements on. In yet another example embodiment, the ordinal number may be understood as the number of bits in a bitmap included in an indication to skip and in an indication to resume. Each bit in the bitmap may be understood as indicating which subsequent measurement occasion to resume RRM measurement on (e.g., bit equal to 0) and which subsequent measurement occasion to skip (e.g., bit equal to 1). A first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability is received in operation 302 from the user device. In an example embodiment, the first indication may be received in a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element. A second indication to skip RRM measurements on a first set of subsequent measurement occasions is transmitted in operation 303 to the user device. The first set of subsequent measurement occasions comprises a first number of measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, the second indication may be transmitted in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. A first scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 304 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the first scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication may be received as a single indication. First data corresponding to the first scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 305 to the user device. A first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response is received in operation 306 from the user device. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0121] Referring to FIG. 3, a third indication to resume RRM measurements on a second set of subsequent measurement occasions is transmitted in operation 307 to the user device. The second set of subsequent measurement occasions comprises the first number of measurement occasions. The first set of subsequent measurement occasions and the second set of subsequent measurement occasions may be understood as sets of measurement occasions occurring within a sliding window containing the same number (the first number) of measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, a subset of the second set of subsequent measurement occasions is a subset of the first set of subsequent measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, the second set of subsequent measurement occasions is the first set of measurement occasions. In an example embodiment, the third indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. A second scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 308 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the second scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication may be transmitted as a single indication. Second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 309 to the user device.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 3, it is determined in operation 310 whether a first criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the first criterion may comprise receiving a second HARQ response corresponding to the second data from the user device, wherein the second HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement. If the first criterion is satisfied (operation 310: yes), scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions are applied in operation 311 to the user device. If the first criterion is not satisfied (operation 310: no), it is determined in operation 312 whether a second criterion is satisfied. In an example embodiment, the second criterion may comprise receiving the second HARQ response from the user device, wherein the second HARQ response is a negative acknowledgement (NACK). If the second criterion is satisfied (operation 312: yes), scheduling restrictions on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions are relaxed in operation 313 to the user device. Then a third scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 314 to the user device and third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication is transmitted in operation 315 to the user device. In an example embodiment, the third scheduling indication may be transmitted in a DCI, a MAC CE, or an information element. If the second criterion is not satisfied (operation 312: no), the user device’s availability for scheduling is determined in operation 316. In an example embodiment, the determining the user device’s availability, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied, may comprise that the user device is determined to be unavailable for scheduling on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Then scheduling restrictions are applied (operation 311) to the user device based on as if a positive acknowledgement (ACK) were received. In another example embodiment, the determining the user device’s availability, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied, may comprise that the user device is determined to be available for scheduling on the second set of subsequent measurement occasions. Then the third scheduling indication is transmitted (operation 314) to the user device, and the third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication is transmitted (operation 315) to the user device.

[0123] FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 illustrate signaling diagrams according to examples of information exchange in a communication network configured to enable skipping and resuming radio resource management measurements. The term “UE” is used for a user device configured to support resuming RRM measurements The term “NW” is used for one or more network elements such as an access node configured to indicate to the user device to skip and to resume RRM measurements. The access node may be, e.g., gNB or a distributed access node, comprising for example a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU) enabling RAN real time functions being carried out at the RAN side (in the DU) and non-real time functions being carried out in a centralized manner (in the CU). The UE is assumed to be in a connected mode operation and an initial access with system information is assumed to have been obtained successfully from the NW. The term “message” is used for, e.g., a downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or an information element.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 4, a configuration for skipping and resuming RRM measurements is exchanged in block 4-1 by the UE 101 and the NW 401. The UE transmits (message 4-2) a message comprising a first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability to the NW. In an example embodiment, the capability may support partial resuming of RRM measurements. In an example embodiment, the capability may support resuming RRM measurements with multiple measurement occasions. The NW transmits (message 4-3) a message comprising a second indication to skip RRM measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion and a first scheduling indication to the UE. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication are transmitted in separate messages. The NW transmits (message 4- 4) a message comprising a first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication to the UE. The UE transmits (message 4-5) a message comprising a first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response corresponding to the first data to the network. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response may be a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0125] Referring to FIG. 4, the NW transmits (message 4-6) a message comprising a third indication to resume RRM measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion and a second scheduling indication to the UE. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication are transmitted in separate messages. The NW transmits (message 4- 7) a message comprising a second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication to the UE. The UE transmits (message 4-8) a message comprising a second HARQ response to the NW, wherein the second HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement. RRM measurements are performed in block 4-9 on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion by the UE. Scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion are applied in block 4-10 by the NW to the UE.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 5, a configuration for skipping and resuming RRM measurements is exchanged in block 5-1 by the UE 101 and the NW 401. The UE transmits (message 5-2) a message comprising a first indication of RRM measurements resuming capability to the NW. In an example embodiment, the capability may support partial resuming of RRM measurements. In an example embodiment, the capability may support resuming RRM measurements with multiple measurement occasions. The NW transmits (message 5-3) a message comprising a second indication to skip RRM measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion and a first scheduling indication to the UE. In an example embodiment, the second indication and the first scheduling indication are transmitted in separate messages. The NW transmits (message 5- 4) a message comprising a first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication to the UE. The UE transmits (message 5-5) a message comprising a first hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) response corresponding to the first data to the network. In an example embodiment, the first HARQ response may be a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 5, the NW transmits (message 5-6) a message comprising a third indication to resume RRM measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion and a second scheduling indication to the UE. In an example embodiment, the third indication and the second scheduling indication are transmitted in separate messages. The NW transmits (message 5- 7) a message comprising a second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication to the UE. The UE transmits (message 5-8) a message comprising a second HARQ response to the NW, wherein the second HARQ response is a negative acknowledgement (NACK). RRM measurements are skipped in block 5-9 on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion by the UE. The UE is determined available for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion in block 5-10 by the NW. The NW transmits (message 5-11) a message comprising a fourth indication to skip RRM measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion and a third scheduling indication to the UE. The NW transmits (message 5-12) a message comprising a third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication to the UE. The UE transmits (message 5-13) a message comprising a second HARQ response to the NW, wherein the second HARQ response is a positive acknowledgement (ACK).

[0128] FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and FIG. 8 illustrate examples of message exchange in a communication network configured to enable skipping and resuming radio resource management measurements. The term “UE” is used for a user device configured to support resuming RRM measurements The term “gNB” is used for an access node configured to indicate to the user device to skip and to resume RRM measurements. The access node may be, e.g., gNB or a distributed access node, comprising for example a centralized unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU) enabling RAN real time functions being carried out at the RAN side (in the DU) and non-real time functions being carried out in a centralized manner (in the CU). The UE is assumed to be in a connected mode operation and an initial access with system information is assumed to have been obtained successfully from the NW.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 6, it is assumed that an extended reality (XR) frame k requires two transport blocks (TBs). Two scheduling DCI commands are transmitted by the gNB to schedule these two TBs. A first DCI command includes an indication to skip a next measurement occasion (bit S=l), since the gNB is unsure if the XR frame k in its entirety can be successfully delivered before the next measurement occasion. A second DCI command allows to revert this decision: the bit S=0 indicates to the UE a possibility of resuming the RRM measurements provided that it successfully decodes a physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH) and transmits the HARQ ACK. The network can determine that a first time period T between a first data DATA transmission on the PDSCH and the next measurement occasion is long enough for the UE to prepare a re-tuning of radio frequency (RF) interface. If the UE successfully decodes the PDSCH with the DATA transmission, then it can start preparing for the re-tuning of the RF interface and perform a switch from transmission mode to measurement mode soon after the HARQ ACK has been transmitted. If the HARQ ACK is lost (successfully decoded), the gNB assumes that the UE is unavailable, and it applies scheduling restrictions as if HARQ ACK was received. This default behavior is conservative and may prevent the network from wrongly assuming that the UE has skipped RRM measurements and would be available for scheduling.

[0130] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of message exchange in a communication network configured to enable partial skipping and partial resuming radio resource management measurements. Measurement occasions such as SMTC windows are split into a plurality of fractional gaps.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 7, a DCI resume indication indicates one or more fractional gaps where RRM measurements may be resumed by the UE provided that a positive HARQ ACK is transmitted by the UE. Thus, even if the UE has not enough time to re-tune the RF interface before the beginning of the next measurement occasion, it can still partially resume measurements in at least one fractional gap indicated by the network.

[0132] Referring to FIG. 7, the next measurement occasion is split into four fractional gaps. The UE may therefore skip any subset of fractional gaps and perform measurement in a remaining subset. A first DCI includes an indication to skip all fractional gaps in the next measurement occasion (bitmap S=1111), since the gNB is unsure if the XR frame k in its entirety may be successfully delivered before the next measurement occasion. A second DCI allows to partially revert this decision: a bitmap 8=1000 indicates to the UE a possibility of resuming RRM measurements in last three fractional gaps of the measurement occasion provided that it successfully decodes a PDSCH and transmits a HARQ ACK.

[0133] In another example embodiment, fractions (fractional gaps) for which RRM measurements can be determined based on a timeline of the UE (i.e., retuning latency) such that for fractions that occur (start) after a predetermined timeline (based on the UE’s capability or configured by the NW) after the indication, allows resuming of RRM measurements. For example, it is assumed that the four fractional gaps in FIG. 7 are identified by following intervals: represent a starting slot and an ending slot of an i-th fractional gap, respectively. It is also assumed that a last DCI is transmitted in slot TDCI. Then, RRM measurements may be resumed in all fractional gaps such that T > TDCI+ T . FIG. 8 illustrates an example of message exchange in a communication network configured to enable skipping and resuming radio resource management measurements on multiple measurement occasions.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 8, the NW indicates to skip a first number N of subsequent measurement occasions. The resume indication enables the UE to resume RRM measurements starting from a K-th (the ordinal number) subsequent measurement occasion at least time units (the first time period) after a transmission of a positive HARQ ACK feedback. For example, with K=l, RRM measurements are resumed at the first measurement occasion after time units after the transmission of the positive HARQ ACK feedback. The parameter K can be configured by the network as part of the (re)configuration procedure.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 8, the first number N=4. A skipping (or resuming) indication refers to skipping (or resuming) some of the subsequent N measurement occasions, where N is a parameter configured by the NW. A window containing the next N measurement occasions may be understood as sliding over time. This way a DCI may always indicate whether to skip (or resume) some of the next (subsequent) N measurement occasions. With a first DCI corresponding to scheduling of a first fragment of the XR frame k, the NW indicates to skip the next N=4 measurement occasions from MGk to MGk+3. With a second DCI corresponding to scheduling of a second and last fragment of the XR frame k, the NW indicates to resume RRM measurements in the next N=4 measurement occasions from MGk+i to MGk+4 starting from the second occasion in the window (MGk+2), since MGk+2 is the first occasion within MGk+i to MGk+4 that is at least time units away from the HARQ ACK. When a first fragment of the XR frame k+1 is scheduled with a third DCI, the network indicates to skip the next N=4 measurement occasions from MGk+4 to MGk+7. With a fourth DCI, which corresponds to the scheduling of the second and last fragment of the XR frame k+1, the NW indicates to resume RRM measurements in the next 4 measurement occasions from MGk+5 to MGk+s starting from the first occasion in the window MGk+5 In this case MGk+s is the first measurement occasion in the window from MGk+s to MGk+s that is Ti time units away from the HARQ ACK. FIG. 9 illustrates an example embodiment of an apparatus 900, which may be an apparatus such as, or comprised in, a user device. The apparatus 900 may correspond to any of the user devices 101, 101’ of FIG. 1. The apparatus may also be called a subscriber unit, mobile station, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, terminal device, user equipment (UE), vehicle, or any electric device. Although the apparatus 900 is illustrated as a single device, it is appreciated that, wherever applicable, functions of the apparatus 900 may be distributed to a plurality of devices.

[0136] The apparatus 900 may comprise at least one processor 902. The at least one processor 902 may comprise, for example, one or more of various processing devices or processor circuitry, such as for example a co-processor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processing circuitry with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other processing devices including integrated circuits such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a hardware accelerator, a special-purpose computer chip, or the like.

[0137] The apparatus 900 may further comprise at least one memory 904. The at least one memory 904 may be configured to store, for example, computer program code or the like, for example operating system software and application software. The at least one memory 904 may comprise one or more volatile memory devices, one or more non-volatile memory devices, and / or a combination thereof. For example, the at least one memory 904 may be embodied as magnetic storage devices (such as hard disk drives, floppy disks, magnetic tapes, etc.), optical magnetic storage devices, or semiconductor memories (such as mask ROM, PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (random access memory), etc.).

[0138] The apparatus 900 may further comprise a communication interface 608 configured to enable the apparatus 900 to transmit and / or receive information to / from other devices. In one example, the apparatus 900 may use the communication interface 908 to transmit or receive signaling information and data in accordance with at least one data communication or cellular communication protocol. The communication interface 908 may comprise, or be configured to be coupled to, at least one antenna to transmit and / or receive radio frequency signals. One or more of the various types of connections may be also implemented as separate communication interfaces, which may be coupled or configured to be coupled to one or more of a plurality of antennas. The communication interface 908 may comprise a receiver, a transmitter, or a transceiver.

[0139] FIG. 10 illustrates an example embodiment of an apparatus 1000, which may be an apparatus such as, or comprised in, an access node. The apparatus 1000 may correspond to the access node 102 of FIG. 1 such as (e / g)NodeB or any access node, or in general a device configured to implement the functionalities or some of the functionalities described herein. Although the apparatus 1000 is illustrated as a single device, it is appreciated that, wherever applicable, functions of the apparatus 1000 may be distributed to a plurality of devices.

[0140] The apparatus 1000 may comprise at least one processor 1002. The at least one processor 1002 may comprise, for example, one or more of various processing devices or processor circuitry, such as for example a co-processor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processing circuitry with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other processing devices including integrated circuits such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a hardware accelerator, a special-purpose computer chip, or the like.

[0141] The apparatus 1000 may further comprise at least one memory 1004. The at least one memory 1004 may be configured to store, for example, computer program code or the like, for example operating system software and application software. The at least one memory 1004 may comprise one or more volatile memory devices, one or more non-volatile memory devices, and / or a combination thereof. For example, the at least one memory 1004 may be embodied as magnetic storage devices (such as hard disk drives, floppy disks, magnetic tapes, etc.), optical magnetic storage devices, or semiconductor memories (such as mask ROM, PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (random access memory), etc.). The apparatus 1000 may further comprise a communication interface 1008 configured to enable the apparatus 1000 to transmit and / or receive information to / from other devices. In one example, the apparatus 1000 may use the communication interface 1008 to transmit or receive signaling information and data in accordance with at least one data communication or cellular communication protocol. The communication interface 1008 may be configured to provide at least one wireless radio connection, such as, for example, a 3 GPP mobile broadband connection (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G, 6G etc.). The communication interface 1008 may comprise, or be configured to be coupled to, at least one antenna to transmit and / or receive radio frequency signals. One or more of the various types of connections may be also implemented as separate communication interfaces, which may be coupled or configured to be coupled to one or more of a plurality of antennas. The communication interface 1008 may comprise a receiver, a transmitter, or a transceiver.

[0142] Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, when the apparatus 900, 1000 is configured to implement some functionality, some component and / or components of the apparatus 900, 1000, such as for example the at least one processor 902, 1002 and / or the at least one memory 904, 1004, may be configured to implement this functionality. Furthermore, when the at least one processor 902, 1002 is configured to implement some functionality, this functionality may be implemented using program code 906, 1006 comprised, for example, in the at least one memory 904, 1004.

[0143] The functionality described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more computer program product components such as for example software components. According to an example embodiment, the apparatus 900, 1000 may comprise a processor or processor circuitry, such as for example a microcontroller, configured by the program code when executed to execute the embodiments of the operations and functionality described. The program code 906, 1006 is provided as an example of instructions which, when executed by the at least one processor 902, 1002, cause performance of apparatus. Alternatively, or additionally, the functionality described herein can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, and without limitation, illustrative types of hardware logic components that can be used include Field-programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), application-specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), application-specific Standard Products (ASSPs), System-on-a-chip systems (SOCs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), Graphics Processing Units (GPUs).

[0144] The apparatus 900, 1000 may be configured to perform or cause performance of any aspect of the method(s) described herein. Further, a computer program may comprise instructions for causing, when executed, an apparatus to perform any aspect of the method(s) described herein. The computer program may be stored on a computer-readable medium. Further, the apparatus 900, 1000 may comprise means for performing any aspect of the method(s) described herein. In one example, the means may comprise the at least one processor 902, 1002, the at least one memory 904,1004 including the program code 906, 1006 (instructions) configured to, when executed by the at least one processor 902, 1002, cause the apparatus 900, 1000 to perform the method(s). In general, computer program instructions may be executed on means providing generic processing functions. The method(s) may be thus computer-implemented, for example, algorithm(s) executable by the generic processing functions, an example of which is the at least one processor 902, 1002. The means may comprise transmission and / or reception means, for example one or more radio transmitters or receivers, which may be coupled or be configured to be coupled to one or more antennas, or transmitter(s) or receiver(s) of a wired communication interface.

[0145] As used in this application, the term ‘circuitry’ refers to all of the following: (a) hardware-only circuit implementations, such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry, and (b) combinations of circuits and software (and / or firmware), such as (as applicable): (i) a combination of processor(s) or (ii) portions of processor(s) / software including digital signal processor(s), software, and memory(ies) that work together to cause an apparatus to perform various functions, and (T) circuits, such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor s), that require software or firmware for operation, even if the software or firmware is not physically present. This definition of ‘circuitry’ applies to all uses of this term in this application. As a further example, as used in this application, the term ‘circuitry’ would also cover an implementation of merely a processor (or multiple processors) or a portion of a processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term ‘circuitry’ would also cover, for example and if applicable to the particular element, a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a sensor, a cellular network device, or another network device.

[0146] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and / or acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example embodiments of implementing the claims and other equivalent features and acts are intended to be within the scope of the claims.

[0147] It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one example embodiment or may relate to several example embodiments. The example embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems or those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages. It will further be understood that reference to 'an' item may refer to one or more of those items.

[0148] The steps or operations of the methods described herein may be carried out in any suitable order, or simultaneously where appropriate. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from any of the methods without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. Aspects of any of the example embodiments described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other example embodiments described to form further example embodiments without losing the effect sought.

[0149] It will be understood that the above description is given by way of example embodiments only and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. The above specification, example embodiments and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments. Although various example embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous

Claims

alterations to the disclosed example embodiments without departing from scope of this specification.CLAIMS1. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements; transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability; receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data; receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data; performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one criterion comprises the second hybrid automatic repeat request response being a positive acknowledgement.

3. An apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the exchanged configuration comprises a first time period for the apparatus to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements.

4. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is caused to perform the receiving the second indication and the first scheduling indication by receiving a single indication, and wherein the apparatus is caused to perform the receiving the third indication and the second scheduling indication by receiving a single indication.

5. An apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the apparatus is caused to perform the receiving the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the first scheduling indication, and the second scheduling indication by receiving downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

6. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to perform: exchanging, with a user device, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements; receiving, from the user device, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability; transmitting, to the user device, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion; transmitting, to the user device, a first scheduling indication; transmitting, to the user device, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication; receiving, from the user device, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data; transmitting, to the user device, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion;transmitting, to the user device, a second scheduling indication; transmitting, to the user device, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication; performing, in response to a first criterion being satisfied, at least: applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; and performing, in response to a second criterion being satisfied, at least: relaxing, to the user device, scheduling restrictions on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; transmitting, to the user device, a third scheduling indication; and transmitting, to the user device, third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

7. An apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the first criterion comprises the apparatus receiving a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a positive acknowledgement, and wherein the second criterion comprises the apparatus receiving the second hybrid automatic repeat request response, wherein the second hybrid automatic repeat request response is a negative acknowledgement.

8. An apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the exchanged configuration comprises a first time period for the user device to re-tune radio frequency interface to perform radio resource management measurements, and wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on at least one of the following: a time gap between the transmitting the second data and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period; a time gap between the transmitting the third indication and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period; ora time gap between a time instant of the determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device and the at least one subsequent measurement occasion exceeding the first time period.

9. An apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 8, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform determining that radio resource management measurements are resumed by the user device on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion based on a status of a buffer containing data corresponding to the user device.

10. An apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 9, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: determining that the user device is unavailable for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; and applying, to the user device, scheduling restrictions based on as if a positive acknowledgement were received.

11. An apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 9, wherein the apparatus is further caused to perform, in response to the first criterion not being satisfied and the second criterion not being satisfied: determining that the user device is available for scheduling on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; transmitting, to the user device, the third scheduling indication; and transmitting, to the user device, the third data corresponding to the third scheduling indication.

12. An apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 11, wherein the apparatus is caused to perform the transmitting the first indication, the second indication, the third indication, the first scheduling indication, the second scheduling indication, and the third scheduling indication by transmitting downlink control information, medium access control control elements, or information elements.

13. A method comprising: exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements; transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability; receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data; receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data; performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

14. A computer-readable medium comprising program instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements; transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability; receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication;transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data; receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data; performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

15. A computer program comprising instructions for causing an apparatus to perform at least the following: exchanging, with a network, a configuration enabling resuming of radio resource management measurements; transmitting, to the network, a first indication of radio resource management measurements resuming capability; receiving, from the network, a second indication to skip radio resource management measurements on at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a first scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, first data corresponding to the first scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a first hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the first data; receiving, from the network, a third indication to resume radio resource management measurements on the at least one subsequent measurement occasion; receiving, from the network, a second scheduling indication; receiving, from the network, second data corresponding to the second scheduling indication; transmitting, to the network, a second hybrid automatic repeat request response corresponding to the second data;performing, in response to at least one criterion being satisfied, radio resource management measurements on the subsequent measurement occasion.

Images