Management of communication and synchronization between network energy saving cells and network entities

Abstract

Embodiments disclosed herein provide a method and system for managing communication and synchronization between network energy saving (NES) cells and network entities in wireless communication networks. The method includes transmitting a setup request message by a first network entity 102 to a second network entity 104. The setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity 102 and the second network entity 104. The method includes receiving a response comprising setup configuration information from the second network entity by the first network entity. The method includes updating, at least one of the first network entity, the second network entity 104, with the configuration information.

Description

MANAGEMENT OF COMMUNICATION AND SYNCHRONIZATION BETWEEN NETWORK ENERGY SAVING CELLS AND NETWORK ENTITIESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to Indian provisional patent application 202441062144, filed on August 16, 2024, and Indian non-pro visional patent application 202441062144, filed on January 24, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to management of communication and synchronization between network energy saving cells and network entities.BACKGROUND

[0003] The information disclosed in this background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the disclosure and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.

[0004] In wireless communication systems, such as those employing New Radio (NR) technology, Network Energy Saving (NES) cell plays a crucial role in providing advanced services to users. The NES cell optimizes energy consumption by dynamically transitioning between active and inactive states based on traffic demand. The NES cell operates in a low-power or sleep mode during periods of low network usage, reducing energy usage without compromising the overall network performance. The NES cell offers enhanced capabilities and features compared to traditional cells, enabling improved performance, capacity, and quality of sendee. Cell A is a primary or anchor cell in network that maintains continuous connectivity' and handles critical signaling and control functions. The cell A ensures seamless communication for user devices and coordinates with other cells, including NES cells, to manage datatraffic and handovers efficiently. The cell A always remains operational to ensure stable network performance and acts as a control anchor.

[0005] The NES cell often has multiple neighboring cells, with some neighboring cells having overlapping coverage. To enable on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) operations, it is essential for the NES cell to transmit the NES cells information to relevant neighboring cells with overlapping coverage that requires the information.

[0006] However, in existing systems, the NES cell may transmit its information to all neighboring cells with overlapping coverage, including those that do not need it. Accordingly, there is a need to provide a method that overcomes the disadvantages of the existing systems.SUMMARY

[0007] The present disclosure relates to a method that includes transmitting, by a first network entity to a second network entity, a setup request message. The setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity. The method further includes receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

[0008] The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus configured to transmit, by a first network entity to a second network entity, a setup request message. The setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity’ and the second network entity. The apparatus is further configured to receive, by the first network entity from the second netw ork entity', a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

[0009] In an embodiment, there is a non-transitory computer readable medium including instructions stored thereon that when processed by at least one processor, causes the at least one processor to perform operations of (i) transmitting a setup request message, the setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and thesecond network entity, and (ii) receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

[0010] The foregoing summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described above, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and wherein:

[0012] Fig. 1A illustrates an exemplary environment for managing transmission of mapping information and wake-up signaling parameters of a Network Energy Saving (NES) cell to relevant network entities in wireless communication networks, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. IB is an exemplary diagram of management of NES cell, cell A and other network entities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 2 is an exemplary' call flow diagram of managing communication between celll and cell2, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] Fig. 3 shows an exemplary flow chart illustrating method steps for managing transmission of mapping information and wake-up signaling parameters of an NES cell to relevant network entities in wireless communication networks, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a device wherein the method for managing transmission of mapping information and wake-up signaling parameters of an NES cell to relevant network entities in wirelesscommunication networks may be implemented, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein.

[0017] It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any block diagram herein represents conceptual views of illustrative systems embodying the principles of the present subject matter. Similarly, it will be appreciated that any flow charts, flow diagrams, state transition diagrams, pseudo code, and the like represent various processes which may be substantially represented in computer readable medium and executed by a computer or processor, whether or not such computer or processor is explicitly shown.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] No element, act, or instruction used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" (in other words, nouns not mentioned in the plural) are intended to include one or more items and may be used interchangeably with "one or more.” Also, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” “include,” “including,” or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, expressions such as “at least one of [A] and [B].” “[A] and / or [B].” or “at least one of [A] or [B]” are to be understood as including only A, only B, or both A and B.

[0019] The following detailed description of example embodiments refers to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure provides illustrations and descriptions but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the present disclosure or may be acquired from practice of the implementations. Further, one or more features or components of one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with another embodiment (or one or more features of another embodiment). Additionally, the flow chart and description of operations provided below relate to at least one of the embodiments in the present disclosure. It should be noted that it is possible to make other embodiments that do not exactly match the flowchart and itsdescription. It is understood that in other embodiments one or more operations may be omitted, one or more operations may be added, one or more operations may be performed simultaneously (at least in part).

[0020] It will be apparent that systems and / or methods described herein, may be implemented in different fonns of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. The actual specialized control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods should not limit their implementations. Thus, the operation and behavior of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software code. It is understood that software and hardware may be designed to implement the systems and / or methods based on the description herein.

[0021] Even though particular combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, the particular combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of implementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification. Even if a dependent claim directly depends on only one claim, the present disclosure may indicate that the dependent claim is dependent on other claims in the claim set.

[0022] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure or may be acquired from practice of the implementations.

[0023] In general, wireless communication systems employing NR technology are designed to provide advanced services to users, with network energy saving (NES) cells playing a critical role in optimizing network performance by minimizing energy consumption. However, as stated earlier, in certain scenarios, the NES cells must communicate with multiple neighboring cells with overlapping coverage, resulting in unnecessary signaling and inefficient network operations. In some examples, an NES cell (also referred, in the context of the present example as ‘subject NES cell’) may overlap with the multiple neighboring cells, including both cell A and other NES cells. For example, thesubject NES cell may have an overlapping coverage with other NES cells. In such scenarios, it is critical to ensure that the NES cells transmit information only to relevant neighboring cells to avoid resource wastage. For example, the subject NES cell should avoid sending the transmit information to other NES cells as the other NES cells may transition into energy saving mode. The relevant neighboring cells may be cell As, on which the user equipment (UE) is masked on or on which UEs are landed on. For example, the relevant neighboring cells may be anchor cells (cell As), which manage signaling, and hybrid cells, which perform both control and data-plane functions. For example, when an NES cell overlaps with another NES cell, it is not required to transmit configuration information from the first NES cell to the second NES cell. This is because the second NES cell is also operating in energy-saving mode and will eventually enter sleep mode. As a result, it will not be able to further communicate the configuration to the user equipment (UE). Transmitting such information to another NES cell expends valuable resources, such as bandwidth, processing power, and energy', without any meaningful outcome. Conversely, transmitting information to cell A is essential since cell A serves as an anchor and remains active, ensuring the configuration can be effectively communicated to the UE. These scenarios highlight the importance of selectively transmitting information only to relevant neighboring cells, such as cell A, and avoiding unnecessary communication with other NES cells that cannot utilize or propagate the transmitted data. The unnecessary communication with other NES cells results in unnecessary signaling overhead, with irrelevant neighboring cells responding to the received information, triggering unnecessary processes. The combined effect of unnecessary' signaling and undesired actions reduces overall network efficiency and performance.

[0024] Accordingly, there is a need to enable NES cells to identify relevant overlapping cells and for overlapping cells to be aware of all NES cells within its coverage area.

[0025] The methods and systems of the present disclosure solve a technical problem of managing NES cell information transmission in wireless networks. Specifically, the disclosure addresses the issue of unnecessary' signaling overhead and the resulting degradation in network perfonnance caused by transmitting information to irrelevant neighboring cells with overlapping coverage. The irrelevant neighboring cells may be the other NES cells. When NES cells transmit information to neighboring cells that do not require or cannot effectively utilize the transmitted data, the network expends valuable resources, such as bandwidth, processing power, and energy on unnecessary’ signaling.

[0026] The present disclosure solves this technical problem as described in the embodiments below by’ selectively’ transmitting a setup request configuration information, which includes NES cell information, cell As information, and wake-up signal (WUS) configuration of NES cells to only relevant neighboring cells. This enables effective information flow between NES cells and cell A to support on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) operations. The NES cells are made aware of all overlapping neighboring cells and vice versa. Further, various embodiments disclosed herein optimize the exchange of mapping information and wake-up signaling parameters between the NES cell in an energy-saving mode and the relevant network entity in a non-energy saving mode. The above techniques as per the present subject matter, reduce unnecessary signaling, enhance overall efficiency, and ensure seamless communication. Therefore, the present disclosure introduces techniques for minimizing network load, enhancing performance, and enabling more efficient communication in energy-saving modes.

[0027] Thus, the present disclosure enables the dynamic management of NES cell communication based on overlapping coverage, thereby improving network efficiency, reducing signaling overhead, and enhancing the quality of service.

[0028] Fig. 1A illustrates an exemplary environment 100A for managing transmission of mapping information and wake-up signaling parameters of an NES cell to relevant network entities in wireless communication networks, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 1A, the exemplary environment 100A includes a first network entity 102, communicatively coupled with a second network entity 104 via a communication netw ork 106.

[0030] In one non-limiting example, the first network entity 102 may be the NES cell operating in an energy-saving mode. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the second network entity 104 may be a cell A or a NES cell in a non-energy saving mode.

[0031] As a non-limiting example, the NES cell includes devices or systems for transmitting a setup request. The setup request includes mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity 102 and the second network entity 104. The NES cell 102 may be but not limited to a Next Generation Node B (gNB), an evolved Node B (eNB), a femtocell, a relay node, a picocell, an loT gateway, or any other suitable network infrastructure component or system capable of wired or wireless communication.

[0032] The second network entity 104 may be implemented as network infrastructure like a central gNB, the eNB, a macrocell, or a high-capacity access point, and the like. In an embodiment, the second network entity 104 may be a centralized network controller for managing communication, synchronization, and dynamic configuration of mapping information and wake-up signaling parameters across network entities.

[0033] Further, the first network entity 102 may include a processor (not shown in Fig. 1), a I / O interface (not shown in Fig. 1), and the memory (not shown in Fig. 1). In some embodiments, the memory is communicatively coupled to the processor. The memory stores instructions, executable by the processor, which, on execution, may cause the first network entity 102 to update and coordinate dynamic configurations with the second network entity 104 for seamless operation of the communication network 106, as disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0034] Further, the second network entity 104 may include a processor (not shown in Fig. 1), an I / O interface (not shown in Fig. 1), and memory (not shown in Fig. 1). In some embodiments, the memory is communicatively coupled to theprocessor. The memory stores instructions, executable by the processor, which, on execution, may cause the second network entity 104 to coordinate dynamic configurations with the first network entity 102 for seamless operation of the communication network 106, as disclosed in the present disclosure.

[0035] In an embodiment the communication network 106 may include, without limitation, NR-based networks, a direct interconnection. Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Controller Area Network (CAN), wireless network (e.g., using a Wireless Application Protocol), the Internet, and the like.

[0036] In an embodiment, the first network entity 102 transmits a setup request message to the second network entity 104. The setup request includes mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity 102 and the second network entity 104. The setup request message may be an XN setup request message. The mapping information includes a first mapping information comprising information of a first set of the one or more network entities in a nonenergy saving mode with the first network entity 102, a second mapping information comprising information of a second set of the one or more network entities in the energy -saving mode with the second network entity 104, and a plurality of wake-up signaling parameters of one or more entities in the energysaving mode.

[0037] The first mapping information includes NES Cell identity (ID) and configurations relevant for energy-saving operations and communication coordination. The second mapping information includes a list of second network entity information providing details about neighboring Cell A, which acts as an anchor cell, including its configurations and relationship with the NES cell. The plurality of wake-up signaling parameters include wake-up signaling (WUS) configurations necessary for managing transitions in energy-saving modes efficiently. Furthermore, the setup request includes a list of NES cells, detailing overlapping NES cells, their configurations, and their interaction with the first network entity 102. The setup request facilitates seamless configuration, coordination, and optimized operation between the first and second network entities, ensuring efficient resource utilization and effective communication inthe network environment 106. In an embodiment, the plurality of wake-up signaling parameters comprise uplink wake-up signals, wake-up timers, trigger conditions, access parameters, response configurations, and a mode of operation.

[0038] In an example, the first network entity 102 may receive a response comprising setup configuration information from the second network entity 104. The setup configuration information may be an XN setup configuration information. The first network entity 102 and the second network entity 104 may be configured to reduce unnecessary signaling, improve network efficiency, minimize redundant communication and prevent irrelevant neighboring cells from responding unnecessarily, thereby reducing signaling overhead and enhance overall performance. In another embodiment, the setup configuration information may be updated at least one of the first network entity 102 and the second network entity 104. In another embodiment, the setup configuration information may be updated by configuring the first set of the one or more network entities in the non-energy saving mode with the second mapping information. In an alternate embodiment, the setup configuration information may also be updated by configuring the second set of the one or more network entities with the first mapping information.

[0039] In an embodiment, the setup configuration information may be updated based on the response message by dynamically updating configuration of the one or more network entities based on an associated mode of operation. The mode of operation includes one or more of an energy-saving mode, a non-energy saving mode, an active mode, an inactive mode, and a hybrid operation mode. For example, if new- neighboring entities are detected or existing entities transition between modes, the first network entity 102 dynamically adjusts its configurations.

[0040] In an embodiment, a connection of a user equipment may be managed by the first network entity 102 upon receiving a connection request with one of the network entities in the energy-saving mode based on the setup configuration information.

[0041] In an embodiment, the set up request may be transmitted to the second network entity 102 and the one or more network entities. In an embodiment, an updated setup request may be received if a change is determined in the setup request of associated network entities. The setup request may be updated by the first network entity 102 with the updated setup configuration information.

[0042] In an embodiment, the first network entity is configured to dynamically transition between the modes of operation by evaluating the changes in the network requirements, the topology, and the traffic load.

[0043] In an embodiment, the wake-up signaling parameters may be coordinated among the plurality of entities that are overlapped to avoid signaling conflicts. In an embodiment, transmission schedules may be adjusted based on the mode of operation of the plurality of entities.

[0044] Fig. IB is an exemplary diagram 100B of management ofNES cell 102, cell A 104 and other network entities 108A-B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] As shown in Fig. IB, the exemplary' diagram 100B includes the first network entity 102, operating as NES cell in the energy-saving mode, the second network entity 104, operating as cell A in the non-energy saving mode, and the other network entities 108A-B. The overlapping coverage areas between the first network entity 102 and the other network entity 108 A depict the interactions required for managing the transmission and synchronization of configuration information, and wake-up signaling parameters. The configuration information includes the wake-up signaling parameters of the other network entity 108 A.

[0046] In an example, each of the other network entities 108A-B may be Cell A. In another example, each of the other network entities 108A-B may be operating in a hybrid mode. In yet another example, the other network entity 108A may be a cell A and the other network entity 108B may be an NES cell. In yet another example, each of the other network entities 10 A-B may operate similar to the second network entity 104.

[0047] In an embodiment, if the first network entity 102 operating in the nonenergy saving mode, the setup request comprises the mapping information of all entities in the energy’ saving mode corresponding to the first network entity' 102. The setup request may be the XN setup request.

[0048] In an embodiment, if the first network entity 102 is operating in the energy-saving mode with the one or more entities, setup request message comprises the mapping information of all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity' 102. In an embodiment, if the first network entity 102 is operating in a hybrid mode, the setup request message comprises the mapping information of (i) all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity' 102, and (ii) all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity 102. In the hybrid mode, the first network entity (102) includes a set of cells operating in the non- energy saving mode and another set of cells operating in the energy-saving mode.

[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, when the NES cell operates with one or more NES cells, the XN setup request includes the mapping information of all the Cell As corresponding to the NES cell.

[0050] In another exemplary’ embodiment, when the cell A operates with one or more NES cells, the XN setup request includes the mapping information of all the NES Cells corresponding to the Cell A.

[0051] In another exemplary embodiment, when the network entity operates as both Cell A and the NES cell, then the mapping information included in the XN setup request with other NES cells and / or Cell As if they have overlapping coverage.

[0052] In another exemplary embodiment, when the NES cell and the Cell A are configured (or decommissioned or shut down) after the XN setup procedure is successfully completed, next generation-random access node (NG-RAN) node configuration update procedure is used to indicate the mapping information between the relevant cells.

[0053] In another exemplary embodiment, when there is a change in NES Cell information, the mapped Cell A is informed using NG-RAN Node configuration update procedure.

[0054] Fig. 2 is an exemplary call flow diagram of managing communication between cell 1 200A and cell2 200B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At 202, the exemplary call flow diagram includes transmitting XN setup request from the cell 1 200A and the cell2200B. The cell 1 200A may be a NES cell and the cell2200B may be a cell A or another NES cell in non-energy saving mode. The XN setup request includes celll information including NES cell with list of all cell As, wake-up signal configuration (WUS) of NES cells and cell A with list of NES cells. At 204, the exemplary call flow diagram includes receiving an XN setup response from the cell2 200B by the celll 200A. The XN setup response includes cell2 information including NES cell with list of all cell As, WUS of NES cells and cell A with list of NES cells. At 206, the exemplary call flow diagram includes adding or deleting of NES cell or cell A. At 208, the exemplary7call flow diagram includes updating next generation random access network (NG_RAN) node configuration. The updated configuration includes served cell information including NES cell with list of all cell As, WUS of NES cells and cell A with list of NES cells. At 210, the exemplary7call flow diagram includes changing uplink WUS configuration. At 212, the exemplary7call flow diagram includes updating NG_RAN node configuration. The updated configuration includes served cell information including served cell information including NES cell ID, and WUS configuration.

[0055] Fig. 3 shows an exemplary7flow chart illustrating method steps for managing transmission of mapping infonnation and wake-up signaling parameters of an NES cell to relevant network entities in wireless communication networks, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0056] As illustrated in Fig. 3, the method 300 may comprise one or more steps. The method 300 may be described in the general context of computer executableinstructions. Generally, computer executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions, which perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types.

[0057] The order in which the method 300 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement the method. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the methods without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof.

[0058] At step 302, a setup request may be transmitted by a first network entity to a second network entity. The setup request comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity.

[0059] At step 304, a response message may be received by the first network entity from the second network entity. The response may include setup configuration information. For example, the setup configuration information includes a plurality of wake-up signaling parameters of the one or more neighboring network entities, a first mapping information comprising information of a first set of the one or more neighboring network entities in a non-energy saving mode, and a second mapping information comprising information of a second set of the one or more network entities in an energy saving mode.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the wake-up signaling parameters comprises uplink wake-up signals, wake-up timers, trigger conditions, access parameters, response configurations, and a mode of operation.

[0061] In an alternate embodiment, at least one of the first netw ork entity and the second network entity are updated with the setup configuration information. In an alternate embodiment, updating the setup configuration information further comprises configuring the first set of the one or more netw ork entities in the nonenergy saving mode with the second mapping information, and configuring thesecond set of the one or more network entities in the energy saving mode with the first mapping information.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, updating the setup configuration information, further comprises step of dynamically updating configuration of the one or more network entities based on an associated mode of operation. The mode of operation comprises one or more of an energy-saving mode, anon-energy saving mode, an active mode, an inactive mode or a hybrid mode. For example, a network entity operating in hybrid mode may dynamically update to energysaving mode during off-peak hours and to active mode during high traffic demand.

[0063] For example, the energy-saving mode and the non-energy saving mode have the necessary data to maintain synchronization and avoid conflicts.

[0064] In an alternate embodiment, a connection of a user equipment may be managed by the first network entity upon receiving a connection request with one of the network entities in the energy-saving mode based on the setup configuration information.

[0065] For example, updated configurations may include new access rules or modified wake-up signaling parameters to enable seamless communication for user equipment transitioning between overlapping network entities.

[0066] In an embodiment, the setup request may be transmitted to the second network entity and the one or more network entities. In an embodiment, an updated setup request may be received by the first network entity from the second network entity if a change is determined in the setup request of associated network entities. In an embodiment, the setup request may be updated by the first network entity with the updated setup configuration information.

[0067] In an embodiment, if the first network entity is operating in the nonenergy saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode, the setup request comprises the mapping information of all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity. In an embodiment, if the first network entity is operating in an energy-saving mode, the setup requestmessage comprises the mapping information of all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity .

[0068] In an embodiment, if the first network entity is operating in a hybrid mode, the setup request message comprises the mapping information of (i) all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity, and (ii) all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity. In the hybrid mode operation, the first network entity includes a set of cells operating in the non-energy' saving mode and another set of cells operating in the energy-saving mode.

[0069] Fig. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a device 400 wherein the method for performing channel estimation in the NB-IoT physical layer may be implemented, according to the embodiments as disclosed herein. It will be appreciated that the device 400 is associated with the first network entity 102 and the second network entity 104. As shown in Fig. 4. the device 400 includes a processor 410, a memory 420, a storage component 430, an input component 440, an output component 450, a communication interface 460, and a bus 470.

[0070] The processor 410, as used herein, means any type of computational circuit that may comprise hardware elements and software elements. The processor 410 may be embodied as a multi-core processor, a single core processor, or a combination of one or more multi-core processors and / or one or more single core processors, a distributed processing system, or the like. The processor 410 may be a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component.

[0071] Memory' 420 includes a non-transitory computer readable medium. Memory 420 includes a random-access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., a flash memory, a magnetic memory, and / or an optical memory) that stores information and / or instructions for use by processor 410. The memory' 420 comprises machine-readable instructions which are executable by the processor 410. These machine-readable instructions when executed by the processor 410 cause theprocessor 410 to perform one or more method steps of an embodiment described above.

[0072] Storage component 430 stores information and / or software related to the operation and use of the device 400. For example, storage component 430 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, and / or a solid-state disk), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge, a magnetic tape, and / or another ty pe of non-transitory computer-readable medium, along with a corresponding drive.

[0073] Input component 440 is configured to receive information, such as user input. For example, the input component 440 may include, but not be limited to, a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a switch, and / or a microphone. Additionally, or alternatively, the input component 440 may include a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or an actuator).

[0074] Output component 450 is configured to provide output information from the device 400. For example, the output component 450 may be, but not limited to, a display, a speaker, an instruction device to an external device, and / or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0075] Communication interface 460 is an interface that provides a communication connection to other devices, such as external devices and internal devices. The connection by the communication interface 460 can be a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections, and can be a direct connection or an indirect connection via a communication network that exists between the device 400 and other devices. In other w ords, the standard of the communication interface 460 is not limited.

[0076] The bus 470 acts as an interconnect between the processor 410, the memory 420, the storage component 430, the input component 440, the output component 450, and the communication interface 460 of the device 400. The bus 470 may include a w ired interconnection or a wireless interconnection.

[0077] The number and arrangement of components shown in Fig. 4 are provided as an example. In practice, device 400 may include additionalcomponents, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than those shown in Fig. 4. Additionally, or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of device 400 may perform one or more functions described as being perfonned by another set of components of device 400. Further, one or more method steps described in any of the embodiments may be performed utilizing a plurality of devices 400 in communication with one another.

[0078] In an embodiment [1], a method comprising: transmitting, by a first network entity to a second network entity, setup request, the setup request comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity; receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

[0079] In an embodiment [2], the mapping information as described in the embodiment [1] comprises at least one of a plurality of wake-up signaling parameters of the one or more network entities in an energy -saving mode, a first mapping information comprising information of a first set of the one or more network entities in a non-energy saving mode, a second mapping information comprising information of a second set of the one or more network entities in the energy-saving mode.

[0080] In an embodiment [3], if the first network entity described in the embodiment [2] is operating in the non-energy saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode, the setup request comprises the mapping information of all entities in the energy7saving mode corresponding to the first network entity.

[0081] In an embodiment [4], if the first network entity described in the embodiment [2] is operating in the energy-saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode, the setup request message comprises the mapping infonnation of all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity7.

[0082] In an embodiment [5], if the first network entity described in the embodiment [2] is operating in a hybrid mode, the setup request message comprises the mapping information of (i) all entities in the non-cnergy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity, and (ii) all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity, in the hybrid mode, the first network entity comprises a set of cells operating in the non-energy saving mode and another set of cells operating in the energy -saving mode.

[0083] In an embodiment [2], updating at least one of the first network entity, and the second network entity, with the setup configuration information. In an embodiment, the updating as described in the embodiment [2] includes configuring the first set of the one or more network entities with the second mapping information and configuring the second set of the one or more network entities with the first mapping information.

[0084] In an embodiment [7], the plurality of wake-up signaling parameters as described in the embodiment [2] includes at least one of uplink wake-up signal configuration, uplink wake-up timers, wake-up trigger conditions, access parameters, response configurations, and a scheduled mode of operation.

[0085] In an embodiment [8]. updating the setup configuration information as described in the embodiment [6] includes dynamically updating configuration of the one or more network entities based on an associated mode of operation. The mode of operation includes one or more of an energy-saving mode, a non-energy saving operation mode, an active mode, an inactive mode, and a hybrid operation mode.

[0086] In an embodiment [9], the method in the embodiment [1] further includes managing a connection of a user equipment by the first network entity upon receiving a connection request with one of the network entities in the energysaving mode based on the setup configuration information.

[0087] In an embodiment

[0010] , the method in the embodiment [1] further includes transmitting the setup request to the second network entity and the one or more network entities; receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, an updated setup request if a change is determined in the setuprequest of associated network entities; and updating, by the first network entity, the setup request with the updated setup configuration information.

[0088] In an embodiment

[0011] , an apparatus is configured to: transmit, by a first network entity to a second network entity, a setup request, wherein the setup request comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity; and receive, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

[0089] In an embodiment

[0012] , the mapping information as described in the embodiment

[0011] comprises at least one of a plurality of wake-up signaling parameters of the one or more network entities in an energy-saving mode, a first mapping information comprising information of a first set of the one or more network entities in a non-energy saving mode, a second mapping information comprising information of a second set of the one or more network entities in the energy-saving mode.

[0090] In an embodiment

[0013] , if the first network entity described in the embodiment

[0012] in the non-energy saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode, the setup request comprises the mapping information of all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity.

[0091] In an embodiment

[0014] , if the first network entity described in the embodiment

[0012] is operating in the energy-saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode, the setup request message comprises the mapping information of all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first netw ork entity.

[0092] In an embodiment

[0015] , if the first network entity described in the embodiment

[0012] is operating in a hybrid mode, the setup request message comprises the mapping information of (i) all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first netw ork entity, and (ii) all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity, in the hybrid mode, thefirst network entity comprises a set of cells operating in the non-energy saving mode and another set of cells operating in the energy -saving mode.

[0093] In an embodiment

[0016] , the apparatus as described in the embodiment

[0011] is configured to update at least one of the first network entity, and the second network entity, with the setup configuration information. In an embodiment, the updating includes configuring the first set of the one or more network entities with the second mapping information, and configuring the second set of the one or more network entities with the first mapping information.

[0094] In an embodiment

[0017] , the plurality of wake-up signaling parameters comprises at least one of uplink wake-up signal configuration, uplink wake-up timers, wake-up trigger conditions, access parameters, response configurations, and a scheduled mode of operation.

[0095] In an embodiment

[0018] , to update the setup configuration information as described in the embodiment

[0016] , the apparatus is configured to: dynamically update configuration of the one or more netw ork entities based on an associated mode of operation. The mode of operation comprises one or more of an energysaving mode, a non-energy saving operation mode, an active mode, an inactive mode, and a hybrid operation mode.

[0096] In an embodiment

[0019] , the apparatus, as described in the embodiment

[0011] , is configured to: manage, by the first network entity, a connection of a user equipment upon receiving a connection request with one of the network entities in an energy-saving mode based on the setup configuration information.

[0097] In an embodiment

[0020] , the apparatus as described in embodiment

[0011] further configured to transmit the setup request to the second network entity and the one or more network entities; receive, by the first network entity from the second network entity, an updated setup request if a change is determined in the setup request of associated network entities; and update, by the first network entity, the setup request with the updated setup configuration information.

[0098] In an embodiment

[0021] , a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, executed by an apparatus forwireless communication, is disclosed. The program instructions may comprise: transmitting, by a first network entity to a second network entity, setup request, the setup request comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity; receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

[0099] In a non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, one or more non- transitory computer-readable media may be utilized for implementing the embodiments consistent with the present disclosure. A computer-readable medium refers to any type of physical memory (such as the memory 420) on which information or data readable by a processor may be stored. Thus, a computer-readable media may store one or more instructions for execution by the at least one processor 410. including instructions for causing the at least one processor 410 to perform steps or stages consistent with the embodiments described herein. The term “computer-readable media” should be understood to include tangible items and exclude carrier waves and transient signals. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media can comprise Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, hard drives, Compact Disc (CD) ROMs, Digital Video Disc (DVDs), flash drives, disks, and any other known physical storage media.

[0100] Thus, certain aspects may comprise a computer program product for performing the operations presented herein. For example, such a computer program product may comprise a computer readable media having instructions stored (and / or encoded) thereon, the instructions being executable by one or more processors to perform the operations described herein. For certain aspects, the computer program product may include packaging material.

[0101] The various illustrative logical blocks, modules, and operations described in connection with the present disclosure may be implemented or performed with a general-purpose processor, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components or any combination thereof designed to performthe functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may include a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may include any commercially available processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, e.g., a plurality of microprocessors, or any other such configuration.

[0102] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

CLAIMSWe Claim;1. A method comprising: transmitting, by a first network entity to a second network entity, a setup request message, wherein the setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity; and receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mapping information comprises at least one of: a plurality of wake-up signaling parameters of one or more entities in an energy-saving mode; a first mapping information comprising information of a first set of the one or more network entities in a non-energy saving mode with the first network entity; and a second mapping information comprising information of a second set of the one or more network entities in the energy-saving mode with the second network entity.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein, if the first network entity is operating in the non-energy saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode: the setup request message comprises the mapping information of all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity.

4. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein,if the first network entity is operating in the energy-saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode: the setup request message comprises the mapping information of all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity.

5. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein, if the first network entity is operating in a hybrid mode: the setup request message comprises the mapping information of (i) all entities in the non-energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity, and (ii) all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity', wherein the operating in the hybrid mode, the first network entity comprises a set of cells operating in the non-energy saving mode and another set of cells operating in the energy -saving mode.

6. The method as claimed in claim 2, the method further comprises updating at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity, with the setup configuration information, wherein the updating the setup configuration information further comprises: configuring the first set of the one or more network entities in the non- energy saving mode with the second mapping infonnation; and configuring the second set of the one or more network entities in the energy saving mode with the first mapping information.

7. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the plurality of wake-up signaling parameters comprises at least one of uplink wake-up signal configuration, uplink wake-up timers, wake-up trigger conditions, access parameters, response configurations, and a scheduled mode of operation.

8. The method as claimed in claim 6, wherein updating the setup configuration information, further comprises step of: dynamically updating configuration of the one or more netw ork entities based on an associated mode of operation, wherein the mode of operation comprises one or more of the energy-saving mode, the non-energy saving operation mode, an active mode, an inactive mode, and a hybrid operation mode.

9. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: managing, by the first network entity, a connection of a user equipment upon receiving a connection request with one of the network entities in an energy-saving mode based on the setup configuration information.

10. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising: transmitting the setup request message to the second network entity and the one or more network entities; receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, an updated setup request message if a change is determined in the setup request message of associated network entities; and updating, by the first network entity, the setup request message with the updated setup configuration information.

11. An apparatus configured to: transmit, by a first network entity to a second network entity, a setup request message, wherein the setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity; and receive, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

12. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the setup configuration information comprises at least one of: a plurality of wake-up signaling parameters of the one or more network entities in an energy-saving mode; a first mapping information comprising information of a first set of the one or more network entities in a non-energy saving mode with the first network entity; and a second mapping information comprising information of a second set of the one or more network entities in the energy-saving mode with the second network entity.

13. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein, if the first network entity is operating in the non-energy saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode: the setup request message comprises the mapping information of all entities in the energy' saving mode corresponding to the first network entity.

14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein, if the first network entity is operating in the energy -saving mode with the one or more entities in the non-energy saving mode: the setup request message comprises the mapping information of all entities in the non-energy' saving mode corresponding to the first network entity.

15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein, if the first network entity is operating in a hybrid mode: the setup request message comprises the mapping information of (i) all entities in the non-energy' saving mode corresponding to the first network entity, and (ii) all entities in the energy saving mode corresponding to the first network entity; and 1wherein the operating in the hybrid mode, the first network entity comprises a set of cells operating in the non-energy saving mode and another set of cells operating in the energy -saving mode.

16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11. further configured to: update at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity, with the setup configuration information, wherein, to update at least one of the first network entity, and the second network entity, with the setup configuration information, the apparatus is further configured to: configure the first set of the one or more network entities in an nonenergy saving mode with the second mapping information; and configure the second set of the one or more network entities in an energy saving mode with the first mapping information.

17. The apparatus as claimed in claim 12, wherein the plurality of wake-up signaling parameters comprises at least one of uplink wake-up signal configuration, uplink wake-up timers, wake-up trigger conditions, access parameters, response configurations, and a scheduled mode of operation.

18. The apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein, to update the setup configuration information, the apparatus is further configured to: dynamically update configuration of the one or more network entities based on an associated mode of operation, wherein the mode of operation comprises one or more of the energy-saving mode, the non-energy saving operation mode, an active mode, an inactive mode, and a hybrid operation mode.

19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 1, further configured to: manage, by the first network entity, a connection of a user equipment upon receiving a connection request with one of the network entities in an energysaving mode based on the setup configuration infomiation.

20. The apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the apparatus is further configured to: transmit the setup request message to the second network entity and the one or more network entities; receive, by the first network entity from the second network entity, an updated setup request message if a change is determined in the setup request message of associated network entities; and update, by the first network entity, the setup request message with the updated setup configuration information.

21. A non -transitory computer- readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, executed by an apparatus for wireless communication, for: transmitting, by a first network entity to a second network entity, a setup request message, wherein the setup request message comprises mapping information relating to at least one of the first network entity and the second network entity; and receiving, by the first network entity from the second network entity, a response message, to the setup request message, comprising setup configuration information.

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