On demand SIB1

Abstract

On demand SIB1 A user equipment (UE) comprising means for: receiving in radio resource control connected state, from a connected first access node a dedicated radio resource control message provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; transmitting, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, to the second access node, an uplink wake-up signal in accordance with the provisioned uplink wake-up signal configuration; receiving, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, from the second access node, system information in dependence upon the transmitted uplink wake-up signal.

Description

[0001] TITLE

[0002] On demand SIB1

[0003] TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

[0004] Examples of the disclosure relate to on-demand SIB1

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] A capacity cell (Network energy saving, NES, cell) will not periodically broadcast SIB1. Instead, the capacity cell (or a corresponding anchor (coverage) cell of the capacity cell) will provide the SIB1 on-demand, based on the user equipment, UE, requesting the SIB1 . The UE will trigger the transmission of SIB1 by sending a wakeup signal (WUS), which could e.g., be a Random Access preamble.

[0007] In order for the UE to transmit the WUS, the UE first needs to acquire a WUS configuration, so that the UE knows which resources the UE can use to transmit the WUS.

[0008] There is no SIB1 available from the NES cell, and the NES cell is unable to provision the WUS configuration

[0009] An anchor cell (CellA) supports provisioning, to the UE, of the WUS configuration for the capacity cell (NES Cell) by transmitting the WUS Configuration of the NES cell - in one of its SIBs.

[0010] The UE obtains the broadcast UL WUS configuration, transmits the UL WUS on NES Cell, and receives on-demand SIB1 from the NES Cell.

[0011] BRIEF SUMMARY

[0012] According to various, but not necessarily all, embodiments there is provided examples as claimed in the appended claims.

[0013] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples there is provided examples as defined in the SUPPORTING PARAGRAPHS section. While the above examples of the disclosure and optional features are described separately, it is to be understood that their provision in all possible combinations and permutations is contained within the disclosure. It is to be understood that various examples of the disclosure can comprise any or all the features described in respect of other examples of the disclosure, and vice versa. Also, it is to be appreciated that any one or more or all the features, in any combination, may be implemented by / comprised in / performable by an apparatus, a method, and / or computer program instructions as desired, and as appropriate. The description of a function should additionally be considered to also disclose any means suitable for performing that function

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0015] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0016] FIG. 1 A shows an example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 1 B shows an example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 2 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 3 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 4 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 5 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 6A shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 6B shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 6C shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 7A shows another example of the subject matter described herein;

[0017] FIG. 7B shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 70 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 8 shows another example of the subject matter described herein; FIG. 9 shows another example of the subject matter described herein.

[0018] The figures are not necessarily to scale. Certain features and views of the figures can be shown schematically or exaggerated in scale in the interest of clarity and conciseness. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures can be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid explication. Similar reference numerals are used in the figures to designate similar features. For clarity, all reference numerals are not necessarily displayed in all figures.

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] Fig. 1 illustrates an example of a network 100 comprising a plurality of network entities including terminal apparatus 110, node apparatus 120 and one or more network apparatus 130. The terminal apparatus 110 and node apparatus 120 communicate 124 with each other. The one or more network apparatus 130 communicate 128 with the node apparatus 120.

[0021] In some examples the one or more network apparatus 130 communicate with the terminal apparatus 110. The one or more network apparatus 130 can, in some examples, communicate with each other. The one or more node apparatus 120 can, in some examples, communicate 126 with each other.

[0022] The network 100 can be a cellular network comprising a plurality of cells 122 each served by a node apparatus 120. In this example, the interface between the terminal apparatus 110 and a node apparatus 120 defining a cell 122 is a wireless interface 124.

[0023] The node apparatus 120 comprises one or more cellular radio transceivers. The terminal apparatus 110 comprises one or more cellular radio transceivers.

[0024] In the example illustrated the cellular network 100 is a third generation Partnership Project (3GPP) network in which the terminal apparatus 110 are user equipment (UE) and the node apparatus 120 can be access nodes such as base stations.

[0025] A user equipment comprises a mobile equipment. Where reference is made to user equipment that reference includes and encompasses, wherever possible, a reference to mobile equipment.

[0026] In some examples, during operation, a user equipment 110 comprises a mobile equipment comprising a smart card for authentication / encryption etc. such as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM). In some examples, during operation, a user equipment 110 comprises mobile equipment comprising circuitry embedded as part of the user equipment 110 for authentication / encryption such as software SIM.

[0027] The node apparatus 120 can be any suitable access node such as a base station or transmission reception point. The node apparatus 120 can be a network element responsible for radio transmission and reception in one or more cells 122, to or from the UE 110. The node apparatus 120 can be a network element in a Radio Access Network (RAN), an Open-Radio Access Network (O-RAN) or any other suitable type of network.

[0028] The network apparatus 130 can be part of a core network. The network apparatus 130 can be configured to manage functions relating to connectivity for the UEs 110. For example, the network apparatus 130 can be configured to manage functions such as connectivity, mobility, authentication, authorization, and / or other suitable functions. In some examples the network apparatus 130 can comprise an Access and Mobility management Function (AMF) and / or a User Plane Function (UPF) or any other suitable entities.

[0029] In the example of Fig. 1 the network apparatus 130 is shown as a single entity. In some examples the network apparatus 130 could be distributed across a plurality of entities. For example, the network apparatus 130 could be cloud based or distributed in any other suitable manner. The network apparatus 130 can be a core network node.

[0030] The network 100 can be a 4G or 5G network, for example. It can for example be a New Radio (NR) network that uses gNB or eNB as access nodes 120. New Radio is the 3GPP name for 5G technology. In such cases the node apparatus 120 can comprise gNodeBs (gNBs) 120 configured to provide user plane and control plane protocol terminations towards the UE 110 and / or to perform any other suitable functions. The gNBs 120 are interconnected with each other by means of an X2 / Xn interface 126. The gNBs are also connected by means of the N2 interface 128 to the network apparatus 130. The gNBs can be connected to an AMF or any other suitable network apparatus 130. Other types of networks and interfaces could be used in other examples. Other types of network could comprise next generation mobile and communication network, for example, a 6G network.

[0031] Different kinds of data transfer services are offered by the Medium Access control (MAC) layer. Each logical channel type is defined by what type of information is transferred. Logical channels are classified into two groups: Control Channels and Traffic Channels. Control channels are used for the transfer of control plane information only:

[0032] Broadcast Control Channel (BCCH): a downlink channel for broadcasting system control information.

[0033] Paging Control Channel (PCCH): a downlink channel that carries paging messages. Common Control Channel (CCCH): channel for transmitting control information between UEs and network. This channel is used for UEs having no RRC connection with the network.

[0034] Dedicated Control Channel (DCCH): a point-to-point bi-directional channel that transmits dedicated control information between a UE and the network. Used by UEs having an RRC connection.

[0035] Dedicated signaling: Signaling sent on DCCH logical channel between the network and a single UE.

[0036] Consequently, any RRC message sent over DCCH could be considered to be a dedicated RRC message.

[0037] For a UE in RRC_CONNECTED, the network can provide system information through dedicated signaling using the RRCReconfiguration message

[0038] The DCCH is a dedicated channel, which means that it is used exclusively for control information exchange and is not used for voice or data transmission. This channel is reserved for the network to communicate with the mobile station and vice versa. The DCCH can be used for a variety of signaling and control functions, such as call setup, call release, handovers, and paging.

[0039] The DL-DCCH-Message class is the set of RRC messages that may be sent from the network to the UE on the downlink DCCH logical channel. It includes rrcReconfiguration, rrcResume, rrcRelease, rrcReestablishment The RRCRelease message is used to command the release of an RRC connection or the suspension of the RRC connection. The Signalling radio bearer is SRB1. The Logical channel is DCCH. The Direction is Network to UE

[0040] The BCCH-DL-SCH-Message class is the set of RRC messages that may be sent from the network to the UE via DL-SCH on the BCCH logical channel. It includes system Information, which includes SIB1.

[0041] In the following description, there is a one-to-one correspondence between an access node and a cell. However, it should be appreciated that a single access node can support multiple cells. The FIGs shows the three cells (CellX, NES, CellA).

[0042] These cells could be in different access nodes 120 (gNBs) or in a single access node (gNB). If the cells are in different access nodes then the inter-cell signaling is internode signaling via Xn interface between central units. If the cells are in the same access node then the inter-cell signaling with be intra access node signaling.

[0043] FIG 1 B illustrates an example of on demand SIB. A second access node 120_2 (NES) is configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32. A third access node 120_3 (CellA) is configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wakeup signal 32 that triggers on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) from a second access node 120_2 to the user equipment 110. The user equipment (UE) 110 obtains the broadcast UL WUS configuration 30 from third access node 120_3 (CellA), the UE 110 transmits UL WUS 32 to the second access node 120_2 (NES) , and the UE 110 receives on-demand system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) from the second access node 120_2 (NES) ,.

[0044] The intention is that RRC Idle / lnactive UEs can receive a wake-up signal configuration from a CellA to request a NES cell, which is not transmitting SIB1 periodically, to transmit the SIB1 to the UE(s).

[0045] In some examples, the UE 110 transmits the UL WUS 32 to the second access node 120_2 (NES) as a Random Access Request and the UE 110 receives the on-demand system information 34. The RAR message can be used for indicating the UE behavior concerning when to expect on-demand SIB1 transmission, in which directions the transmission of on-demand SIB1 can be expected, and how to proceed if on-demand SIB1 is not received when expected.

[0046] FIG 2 is similar to FIG 1B, it additionally comprises a first access node 120_1 (CellX). The first access node 120_1 (CellX) is NOT configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration 20. A wake-up signal configuration 30 is for configuring a wakeup signal 32 that triggers on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) by a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32.

[0047] As previously described, the second access node 120_2 (NES) is configured for on- demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32.

[0048] As previously described, the third access node 120_1 (CellA) is configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to a second access node 120_2 (NES) to cause on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32

[0049] The first access node 120_1 (CellX) is NOT configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30.

[0050] FIG 2 illustrates an example of a user equipment 110 comprising means for: receiving in radio resource control (RRC) connected state, from a connected first access node 120_1 (CellX) a dedicated radio resource control message 20 provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32; transmitting, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, to the second access node 120_2 (NES), an uplink wake-up signal 32 (WUS) in accordance with the provisioned uplink wake-up signal configuration 30; receiving, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, from the second access node 120_2 (NES), system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the transmitted uplink wake-up signal 32.

[0051] In at least some examples, the dedicated radio resource control message 20 is a radio resource control message provided via dedicated signaling sent on downlink dedicated control channel.

[0052] In at least some examples, the dedicated radio resource control message 20 is an instance of a downlink dedicated control channel message class (DL-DCCH- Message class).

[0053] In at least some examples, the dedicated radio resource control message 20 is a RRCReconfiguration Message.

[0054] In at least some examples, the system information 34 is system information 34 block one, SIB 1.

[0055] In at least some examples, the system information 34 enables one or more of: network attachment of user equipment 110; connection establishment of user equipment 110; reception of further system information.

[0056] In at least some examples, the system information 34 indicates one or more of: system bandwidth, frame structure, and physical layer timing information, frequency bands supported by the network, beamforming information, scheduling of other system information, and downlink control information.

[0057] In at least some examples, the user equipment 110 comprises means for transferring, to the first access node 120_1 (CellX), user equipment capability information comprising information relating to a capability of the user equipment 110 to request on-demand system information (SIB1).

[0058] FIG 2 illustrates an access node 120_1 (CellX) comprising means for: transmitting to a user equipment 110 (UE) in radio resource control connected state, a dedicated radio resource control message 20 provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32; FIG 3 illustrates an example of the first access node 120_1 (CellX) is more detail. In this example, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprises means 40 for selecting the user equipment 110 based on information 42 provided by the User equipment 110.

[0059] In this example, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprises means 40 for selecting the user equipment 110 based on a capability 42_1 of the user equipment 110.

[0060] In this example, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprises means for selecting the user equipment 110 based on a capability 42_1 of the user equipment 110 to request on-demand system information 34.

[0061] In this example, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprises means for selecting the user equipment 110 based on received user equipment 110 measurement reports 42_2.

[0062] The first access node 120_1 (CellX) may determine there is a need for sending UL WUS configuration 30 to its served UEs based on UE capability (i.e. the UE supports the OD-SIB1 feature) and optionally based on radio measurements where it can be determined that the UE is located in proximity of the second access node 120_2 (NES)I.

[0063] FIG 2 illustrates an example of a first access node 120_1 (NES) comprising means for: receiving an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission to the second access node 120_2 (NES) by a user equipment 110 wherein an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 has been transferred by a second access node (NES) performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node (NES) provides on-demand delivery of system information (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal

[0064] In at least some example, the first access node 120_1 (NES) comprises means for transferring uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 to a user equipment via dedicated signaling 20 , for example, as previously described. In at least some examples, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) is configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration, and is configured to not provide confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration to the second access node 120_2 (NES).

[0065] FIG 2 illustrates an example of a second access node 120_2 (NES) comprising means for: receiving a wake-up signal 32; on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) in dependence upon reception of the wake-up signal 32; and transferring to neighboring access nodes 120 an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission to the second access node 120_2 (NES) by a user equipment 110.

[0066] It is of note that the transfer is to neighboring access nodes 120, not just a third access node 120_3 (CellA) configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal that trigger on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) by the second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32.

[0067] It is of note that the transfer is to neighboring access nodes 120, including the first access node 120_1 (CellX) which is NOT configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration. A wake-up signal configuration is for configuring a wake-up signal that triggers on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) by a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32. The first access node 120_1 (CellX) can be configured for dedicated transfer 20 of a wake-up signal configuration 30, as previously described. A wake-up signal configuration is for configuring a wakeup signal 32 that triggers on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) by a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon a wake-up signal 32. In at least some examples, transfer to each neighboring access nodes 120 of the uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 is via the Xn interface.

[0068] In at least some example, transferring to neighboring access nodes 120 an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission to the second access node 120_2 (NES) by a user equipment 110 comprises transferring the same an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 to all neighboring access nodes 120.

[0069] In at least some examples, the neighboring access nodes are a collection of access nodes 120 that extend beyond at least one access node (CellA) configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30 to include at least one access node (CellX) configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30.

[0070] In at least some examples, the second access node 120_2 is configured to not expect confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from access nodes (CellX) configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration. In at least some examples, the second access node 120-2 is configured to expect confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30 from access nodes (CellA) configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30.

[0071] In at least some examples, the second access node 120_2 comprises means for determining the uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by a user equipment 110 to the access node.

[0072] In at least some examples, the second access node 120_2 knows it neighboring access nodes 120 via Automatic Neighbor Cell Relation (ANCR) function defined in TS 38.300 clause 15.3.3.1.

[0073] This function also exists from LTE, there named Automatic Neighbor Relation (ANR), defined in TS 36.300. The Xn interface is setup between neighboring access nodes 120 determined via the ANCR function. In some examples, the neighboring access nodes inform the second access node 120_2 of their capability of serving as CellA via Xn signaling (Xn Setup procedure, NG-RAN Node Configuration Update procedure, defined in TS 38.423).

[0074] In some examples, the XnAP Served Cell Information NR IE is enhance and comprises cell A capability information (to be used by access nodes having this capability) and UL WUS Configuration information (to be used by NES cells).

[0075] FIG 4 illustrates an example based on the previous examples of FIGs 2 & 3, and the description of those Figs is herein incorporated by reference.

[0076] At stepl, the second access node 120_2 (NES) sends a wake-up signal configuration 30 to all its neighboring access node 120.

[0077] At steps 2, the first access node 120_1 (CellA) sends whether it supports Anchor role as part of Served Cell Information (ex: Xn Setup or RAN Config Update procedures) and would not wait for the confirmation from all the gNBs.

[0078] At steps 3 to 5, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) has several serving user equipments 110. The user equipment 110 are in RRC-Connected state (step 3). The serving user equipment 110 indicate 42_1 their support of on-demand SIB 1 (OD- SIB1) at step 4.. The user equipment 110 send 42_2 measurement reports of neighboring cells.

[0079] At Step 6, based on local condition, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) decides to send OD-SIB1 related Assistance Information to its served UEs 110.

[0080] The trigger conditions could include one or more of:

[0081] % of second access nodes 120_1(NES) and / or % of third access nodes 120_3 (CellA) reported by UEs measurements for second access nodes 120_1(NES) and / or third access nodes 120_3 (CellA) reported by UEs are better than a configured threshold value If the above conditions are met, at step 7a, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) provides the UL WUS configuration 20 of thesecond access node 120_2 (NES) over dedicated RRC signaling. The UL WUS configuration 30 can be used by the UEs 110 to access the second access node 120_2 (NES) cell should the UE 1101 choose to reselect to the cell associated with the second access node 120_2 (NES).

[0082] Note that, at step 1 , the second access node 120_2 (NES) provides the UL WUS configuration 30 to the first access node 120_1 (CellX). It is essential for step 7a but not step 7b.

[0083] Note that at step 7a, dedicated RRC signaling is used to transfer the UL WUS configuration 30 during RRC-connected mode.

[0084] FIG 5 illustrates an example of a user equipment 110 (UE) comprising means for: communicating with a remote first access node 120_1 (CellX) to receive information 60 that controls prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), so that the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) can provision 64 an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 (UE) to a second access node 120_2 (NES), wherein the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES), in which the third access node 120_3 (CellA) provisions 64 an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES); and wherein the second access node 120_2 (NES) is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) provides on- demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32 and in dependence upon the received information 60 that controls prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), selecting the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) wherein selecting the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) comprises communicating 62 with the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) to receive information 64 provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32. FIG 5 illustrates an example of a first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprising means for: communicating with a user equipment 110 to provide information 60 that controls prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), so that the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) can provision an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 (UE) to a second access node 120_2 (NES), wherein the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES), in which the third access node 120_3 (CellA) provisions 64 an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES); and wherein the second access node 120_2 (NES) is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) provides on- demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) in dependence upon the wakeup signal 32.

[0085] In at least some examples, the remote first access node 120_1 (CellX) is not performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES) and is not performing an on-demand delivery role.

[0086] On-demand anchor capability from CellA to neighboring Cells (inc CellX)

[0087] FIG 5 illustrates a first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprising means for: communicating with a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) (CellA) to receive an indication 50 of whether or not the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role, in which the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) provisions an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wakeup signal 32 for transmission by a user equipment 110 to a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32; conditionally, if the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on- demand anchor role, communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), so that the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) can provision 64 an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 (UE) to the second access node 120_2 (NES).

[0088] FIG 5 illustrates an example of a third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprising means for: communicating with a remote first access node 120_1 (CellX) to send an indication of whether or not the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role, in which the third access node 120_3 (CellA) broadcasts an uplink wakeup signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by a user equipment 110 to a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on- demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32.

[0089] The third access node 120_3 (CellA) notifies its neighboring access nodes 120, including the first access node 120_2 (CellX) about an anchor cell capability of the third access node 120_3 (cellA), which is then used by the cellar first access node 120_2 for the prioritization described above.

[0090] In some examples, the third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises means for sending the indication 50 of whether or not the access node (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role to neighboring access nodes 120. In some examples, the third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises means for sending the indication 50 of whether or not the access node (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role to all neighboring access nodes 120. In some examples, the third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises means for sending the indication 50 of whether or not the access node (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role to all neighboring access nodes via Xn interfaces. In at least some examples, the neighboring access nodes extend beyond at least one access node (CellA) configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30 to include at least one access node (CellX) configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration 30. In at least some examples , the third access node 120_3 (CellA) knows its neighboring access nodes due to existing Automatic Neighbor Cell Relation (ANCR) function defined in TS 38.300 clause 15.3.3.1. The XNA interface is setup between neighbor nodes determined via the ANCR function. Access nodes 120 can inform neighboring nodes 120 about their capability to serve as cell A (broadcast source of UL WUS configuration 30) via XNA signaling (Xn Setup procedure, NG-RAN Node Configuration Update procedure, defined in TS 38.423). In some examples, the XnAP Served Cell Information NR IE comprises cell A capability information 50 (to be used by nodes / cells having this capability) and UL WUS Configuration information (to be used by NES cells).

[0091] In at least some examples, the received indication 50, from the third access node 120_3 (CellA), indicates whether or not the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role that enable camping on the third access node 120_3 (CellA) to get the uplink wake-up signal configuration 30.

[0092] In at least some examples, the received indication 50, from the third access node 120_3 (CellA), of whether or not the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role is comprised within cell capabilities. In at least some examples, the received indication 50, from the third access node 120_3 (CellA), of whether or not the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role is comprised within a XnAP Served Cell Information NR IE with capability information for the third access node 120_3 (CellA)

[0093] In at least some examples, the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 that triggers on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) by the second access node 120_2 (NES) and the first access node 120_2 (CellX) is NOT configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wakeup signal 32 that triggers on-demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) by the second access node 120_2 (NES).

[0094] Further example of communicating with a remote first access node 120_1 (CellX) to receive information 60 that controls prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), are illustrated in FIGs 6A, 6B, 6C and 7A, 7B, 7C. In these example, selection by the UE of CellA is prioritized , so that the UE gets UL WUS config for the second access node 120_2 (NES) from the third access node 120_3 (CellA) not from the first access node 120-1 (CellX)

[0095] In the examples illustrated in FIG 6A & 7A , the first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprises means 70 for prioritizing the remote third access node (CellA), wherein communicating 60 with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises: sending to the user equipment 110 information 60 prioritizing selection by the user equipment 110 of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that user equipment 110 gets an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 from the third access node 120_3 (CellA). The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) occurs during a RRC connection release procedure. The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) uses dedicated RRC signaling 80.

[0096] In these examples, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) prioritizes the third access node (CellA) over other access nodes (e.g. over itself) and informs the user equipment 110. This encourages the user equipment 110 to camp on the third access node 120_2 (CellA) to get the uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for the second access node 120-2 (NES) from the third access node 120_2 (CellA).

[0097] In the examples illustrated in FIG 6B & 7B , the communicating 60 with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises: communicating 60 with a user equipment 110 to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment 110 of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that user equipment 110 gets an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 from the third access node 120_3 (CellA). The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) occurs during a RRC connection release procedure. The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises network assisted user equipment selection. The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) uses dedicated RRC signaling 80. In these examples, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) delegates prioritization of the third access node (CellA) over other access nodes (e.g. over itself) to the user equipment 110. This encourages the user equipment 110 to preferentially camp on the third access node 120_2 (CellA) to get the uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for the second access node 120-2 (NES) from the third access node 120_2 (CellA).

[0098] In the examples illustrated in FIG 6C & 7C , the communicating 60 with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises: communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment 110 of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that user equipment 110 gets an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 from the third access node 120_3 (CellA). The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) occurs while the user equipment 110 is in RRC idle state or RRC inactive state. The communicating 60 with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises network assisted user equipment 110 selection. The communicating 60 with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) uses broadcast RRC signaling 82, in this case system information (e.g. SIB) In these examples, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) delegates prioritization of the third access node (CellA) over other access nodes (e.g. over itself) to the user equipment 110. This encourages the user equipment 110 to preferentially camp on the third access node 120_2 (CellA) to get the uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for the second access node 120-2 (NES) from the third access node 120_2 (CellA). In FIG 7B, communicating with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), comprises communicating with the user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) over selection of the first access node 120_1 (CellX).

[0099] In at least some examples (FIG 6A, 7A) , the first access node 120_1 (CellX) comprises means 70 for prioritizing the remote third access node (CellA), wherein communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises: sending to the user equipment 110 information 60 prioritizing selection by the user equipment 110 of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that user equipment 110 gets an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 from prioritizing the third access node 120_3 (CellA).

[0100] In at least some examples (FIG 6B, 6C, 7B, 7C) , communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises: communicating 60 with a user equipment 110 to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment 110 of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that user equipment 110 gets an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 from prioritizing the third access node 120_3 (CellA).

[0101] In at least some examples (FIG 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B) ,the communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) occurs during a RRC connection release procedure. In at least some examples (FIG 6C, 7C) communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) occurs while user equipment 110 is in RRC idle state or RRC inactive state.

[0102] In at least some examples (FIG 6B, 6C, 7B, 7C) ,the communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) comprises network assisted user equipment 110 selection.

[0103] In at least some examples (FIG 6A, 6B, 7A, 7B),the communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) uses dedicated RRC signaling

[0104] In at least some examples (FIG 6C, 7C),the communicating with a user equipment 110 to control prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) uses broadcast RRC signaling

[0105] In some examples, such as FIGs 5, 6A, 6B, 6C, 7A, 7B, 7C, the user equipment 110 comprises means for: receiving, from the first access node 120_1 (CellX), a configuration for requesting 62 transmission 64 from a third access node 120_3 (CellA) of a first uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on- demand delivery of system information 34 (e.g. SIB1) in dependence upon the wakeup signal 32; wherein the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES), in which the third access node 120_3 (CellA) broadcasts an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES); wherein the second access node 120_2 (NES) is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) provides on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32.

[0106] The examples of FIGs 2 to 4 and FIGs 5 to 7C, can be combined such that a user equipment is configured to perform direct provisioning as described with reference to FIGs 2 to 4 and is also configured to perform direct provisioning as described with reference to FIGs 5 to 7c. For example, the user equipment 110 comprises means for: receiving, from a first access node 120_1 (CellX), a first uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to a second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32; and receiving, from the first access node 120_1 (CellX), a configuration for requesting 63 transmission from a third access node 120_3 (CellA) of a first uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32; wherein the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES), in which the third access node 120_3 (CellA) broadcasts an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES);

[0107] In at least some examples, the second access node 120_2 (NES) is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) provides on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32.

[0108] In at least some examples (e.g. FIGs 6B, 6B, 7A, 70) indirect provisioning is achieved using network assisted II E-selection of the third access node 120 for network attachment procedure.

[0109] In these examples, the user equipment 110 (UE) comprises means for: communicating with a remote first access node 120_1 (CellX) to receive assistance information that controls user equipment 110 prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), so that the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) can provision an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 (UE) to a second access node 120_2 (NES), wherein the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES), in which the third access node 120_3 (CellA) provisions an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES); and wherein the second access node 120_2 (NES) is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) provides on- demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32 and wherein the remote first access node 120_1 (CellX) is not performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node 120_2 (NES) and is not performing an on- demand delivery role; in dependence upon the received information that controls prioritization of user equipment 110 selection of a remote third access node 120_3 (CellA), selecting the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) wherein selecting the remote second access node 120_2 (NES) comprises communicating with the remote third access node 120_3 (CellA) to receive information provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration 30 for configuring a wake-up signal 32 for transmission by the user equipment 110 to the second access node 120_2 (NES) configured for on-demand delivery of system information 34 (SIB1) in dependence upon the wake-up signal 32.

[0110] FIG 7A illustrates an example based on the previous examples of FIGs 5 & 6A, and the description of those Figs is herein incorporated by reference.

[0111] The steps 1 to 6 are as described previously for FIG 4.

[0112] If the conditions of step 6 are met, at step 7b,

[0113] The first access node 120_1 (CellX) prioritizes the third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that the UE 110 first reselects to the third access node 120_3 (CellA) to gets the WUS configuration 30 of the second access node 120_2 (NES) for subsequent use.

[0114] Note that, at step 2, the second access node 120_2 (NES) provides the UL WUS configuration 30 to the first access node 120_1 (CellX).

[0115] Note that at step 7b, the prioritization is performed only at the first access node 120_1 (CellX) and does not occur at the UE 110.

[0116] FIG 7B illustrates an example based on the previous examples of FIGs 5 & 6B, and the description of those Figs is herein incorporated by reference.

[0117] The steps 1 to 6 are as described previously for FIG 4 and 7A.

[0118] If the conditions of step 6 are met, at step 7b, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) provides assistance information to assist the UE with prioritizing the third access node 120_3 (CellA) so that the UE 110 first reselects to the third access node 120_3 (CellA) to get the WUS configuration 30 of the second access node 120_2 (NES) for subsequent use.

[0119] The first access node 120_1 (CellX) provides information 60 to the user equipment 110 than enables the user equipment 110 to prioritize the third access node 120_3 (CellA), so that the user equipment 110 first reselects to the third access node 120_3 and gets the UL WUS configuration 30 of the second access node 120_2 (NES) for subsequent use

[0120] Note that, at step 2, the second access node 120_2 (NES) provides the UL WUS configuration 30 to the first access node 120_1 (CellX).

[0121] Note that at step 7b, the prioritization is performed at the user equipment 110.

[0122] The information 60 can be provided to the user equipment 110 in a RRC Release message on a transition from RRC Connected to RRC Idle / lnactive:

[0123] The first access node 120_1 provides assistance to help the UE 110 for fast reselection of the third access node 120-3 (CellA).:

[0124] Referring to FIG 7C, the user equipment 110 detects SSB of the second access node 120_2 (NES) as rankl cell based on cell selection / reselection procedure. However, UE 110 is not able to identify the second access node 120_2 as NES cell. The can identify second access node 120_2 as NES cell based on an UL WUS configuration 30.

[0125] The UE 110 re-select another cell. In our scenario, the first access node 120_1 (CellX) is the cell that the UE 110 is expected to select / re-select. The UE re-selects the first access node 120_1 (CellX) and it acquires the system information.

[0126] The first access node 120_1 (CellX) redirects the UE 110 to re-select the third access node (CellA). The first access node 120_1 (CellX) transmits the third access node 120_3 (CellA) identifiers in SIB3 or SIB5.

[0127] The UE 110 may re-select the third access node 129_3 (CellA) based on the assistance information from the first access node 120_1 (CellX).

[0128] The example relates to a procedure during RRC Idle / lnactive. There is no dedicated RRC signaling.

[0129] The third access node 120_3 (CellA) provides assistance information to the first access node 120_1 (CellX).

[0130] In some examples the assistance information is:

[0131] Indication that the third access node 120_3 (CellA) is an anchor for the second access node 120_2 (NES); Indication that the third access node 120_3 (CellA) an UL WUS config for the second access node 120_2 (NES);

[0132] Explicit prioritization of access nodes 120.

[0133] In the FIG, the second access node 120_2 (NES) is closest, then the first access node 120_1 (CellX), then the third access node 120_3 (CellA). The Fig illustrates a failure to connect (camp on) first access node 120_1 (CellX) and second access node 120_2 (NES). It successfully connects (camps on) the third access node 120_3, from which it receives

[0134] Information enabling it to camp on the second access node 120_2 to receive WUS config 30 to camp on the second access nodes 120_2

[0135] In one embodiment, the user equipment 110 may receive system information from a the second access node 120_2 (NES). The system information indicates that a neighbor cell is a CellA (anchor cell). The system information is not SIB1. The cell of the first access node 120_1 (CellX) is not on-demand SIB 1 and UE does not have UL WUS config.

[0136] In one embodiment, UE 110 may receive at least one CellA identifiers from a second access node 120_2 (NES)I .

[0137] In one embodiment, UE 110 may receive at least one CellA identifiers as a list of PCIs, ARFCN carried by SIB3 or SIB5 of a cell of the second access node 120_2 (NES).

[0138] In one embodiment, UE 110 may receive dedicated cell selection / re-selection parameters from a cell associated to a second neighbor cell. UE may apply the dedicated cell selection / reselection targeting to re-select a CellA.

[0139] In one embodiment, UE may receive RRC release message or RRC reconfiguration message, indicating the on-demand status of another neighbor cell.

[0140] It can be also that CellX transmits in SIBs an information indicative that CellA is a cell assisting NES cell with OD-SIB1 operation.

[0141] For example, Slb3 of CellX can carries in :

[0142] Intra or inter FreqNeighCelllnfo { physCellld Indication of phyCellld is refering to CellA type . ...}

[0143] Or simply a dedicated cell list where CellA identifiers are added

[0144] SUPPORTING PARAGRAPHS

[0145] There are present different sets of numbered paragraphs A1.1 , A1.2; A2.1 , A2.2;

[0146] B1.1 , B1 .2; B2.1 , B2.2; C, D, E. The first paragraph in any of these sets of paragraphs could form the basis for an independent claim. Features present in one set of paragraphs can be combined with features present in other sets of paragraphs.

[0147] A1.1 DIRECT PROVISIONING UE<->CellX: UE

[0148] 1 . A user equipment (UE) comprising means for: receiving in radio resource control connected state, from a connected first access node a dedicated radio resource control message provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; transmitting, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, to the second access node , an uplink wake-up signal in accordance with the provisioned uplink wake-up signal configuration; receiving, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, from the second access node, system information in dependence upon the transmitted uplink wake-up signal.

[0149] 2. A user equipment as defined in paragraph 1 , wherein the dedicated radio resource control message is a radio resource control message provided via dedicated signaling sent on downlink dedicated control channel.

[0150] 3. A user equipment as defined in paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the dedicated radio resource control message is an instance of a downlink dedicated control channel message (DL-DCCH-Message) class.

[0151] 4. A user equipment as defined in paragraph 1 , 2 or 3 wherein the dedicated radio resource control message is a RRCReconfiguration Message.

[0152] 5. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the system information is system information block one, SIB 1.

[0153] 6. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 5, wherein the system information enables one or more of: network attachment of user equipment; connection establishment of user equipment; reception of further system information.

[0154] 7. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein the system information indicates one or more of: system bandwidth, frame structure, and physical layer timing information, frequency bands supported by the network, beamforming information, scheduling of other system information, and downlink control information.

[0155] 8. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein the user equipment comprises means for transferring to the first access node UE capability information comprising information relating to a capability of the user equipment to request on-demand system information.

[0156] A1.2 DIRECT PROVISIONING UE<->CellX :CellX

[0157] 9. An access node (CellX) comprising means for: transmitting to a user equipment in radio resource control connected state, a dedicated radio resource control message provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal;

[0158] 10. An access node as defined in paragraph 9, comprising means for selecting the user equipment based on a capability of the user equipment.

[0159] 11. An access node as defined in paragraph 9 or 10, comprising means for selecting the user equipment based on a capability of the user equipment to request on- demand system information.

[0160] 12. An access node as defined in any or paragraphs 9 to 11, comprising means for selecting the user equipment based on received user equipment measurement reports.

[0161] 13. An access node as defined in any or paragraphs 9 to 12, wherein the access node is not configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration and the second access node is configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0162] A2.1 DIRECT PROVISIONING CellX<-> NES :CellX 1. An access node (CellX) comprising means for: receiving an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission to the second access node by a user equipment wherein an uplink wake-up signal configuration has been transferred by a second access node performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0163] 2. An access node as defined in paragraph 1, comprising means transferring uplink wake-up signal configuration to a user equipment via dedicated signaling.

[0164] 3. An access node as defined in paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the means for receiving an uplink wake-up signal configuration are configured to use the Xn interface.

[0165] 4. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the same uplink wake-up signal configuration is transferred to all neighboring access nodes 120.

[0166] 5. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the neighboring access nodes are a collection of access nodes that extend beyond at least one access node configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration to include at least one access node configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration .

[0167] 6. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 5, configured to not provide confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from the access node being configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

[0168] A2.2 DIRECT PROVISIONING CellX<-> NES : NES

[0169] 7. An access node (NES) comprising means for: receiving a wake-up signal; on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon reception of the wake-up signal; transferring to neighboring access nodes an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission to the access node by a user equipment.

[0170] 8. An access node as defined in paragraph 7, wherein the uplink wake-up signal configuration is transferred via an Xn interface.

[0171] 9. An access node as defined in paragraph 7 or 8, comprising means for transferring to all neighboring access nodes the uplink wake-up signal configuration. 10. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 7 to 9, wherein the neighboring access nodes extend beyond at least one access node configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration to include at least one access node configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

[0172] 11. An access node as defined in paragraph 10, wherein the access node is configured to not expect confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from access nodes configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

[0173] 12. An access node as defined in paragraph 11 , wherein the access node is configured to expect confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from access nodes configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

[0174] 13. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 6, comprising means for determining the uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by a user equipment to the access node.

[0175] B1.1 INDIRECT PROVISIONING UE<-> CellX: UE

[0176] 1. A user equipment comprising means for: communicating with a remote first access node to receive information that controls prioritization of user equipment selection of a remote third access node , so that the remote third access node can provision an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node , wherein the third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node, in which the third access node provisions an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node ; and wherein the second access node is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal and wherein the remote first access node is not performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node and is not performing an on-demand delivery role, and in dependence upon the received information that controls prioritization of user equipment selection of a remote third access node, selecting the remote third access node wherein selecting the remote second access node comprises communicating with the remote third access node to receive information provisioning an uplink wakeup signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0177] 2. A user equipment as defined in paragraph 1 , wherein the first access node determines a prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node, and communicates the prioritizarion explicitly or implicitly to the user equipment.

[0178] 3. A user equipment as defined in paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the user equipment determines a prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node

[0179] 4. A user equipment as defined in paragraph 1 , 2 or 3, wherein the first access node assists the user equipment determination of the prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node, by transmitting to the user equipment assistance information.

[0180] 5. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: receiving information prioritizing selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node.

[0181] 5. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 5, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: communicating with the first access node to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from from the third access node.

[0182] 6. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 6, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs during a RRC connection release procedure.

[0183] 7. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs while user equipment is in idle state or inactive state.

[0184] 8. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises network assisted user equipment selection.

[0185] 9. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses dedicated RRC signaling.

[0186] 10. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 8, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses broadcast RRC signaling.

[0187] 11. A user equipment as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein communicating with a first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node, comprises communicating with the first access node to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node over selection of the access node.

[0188] B1.2 INDIRECT PROVISIONING UE<-> CellX: CellX

[0189] 12. An access node (CellX) comprising means for: communicating with a user equipment to provide information that controls prioritization of user equipment selection of a remote third access node , so that the remote third access node can provision an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node , wherein the third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node, in which the third access node provisions an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node ; and wherein the second access node is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0190] 13. An access node as defined in paragraph 12, comprising means for prioritizing the remote third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: sending to the user equipment information prioritizing selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wakeup signal configuration from from the third access node.

[0191] 14. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 2to 13, comprising means for prioritizing selection of the remote third access node , so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: communicating with a user equipment to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wakeup signal configuration from the third access node.

[0192] 15. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 12 to 14, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs during a RRC connection release procedure.

[0193] 16. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 12 to 15, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs while user equipment is in idle state or inactive state.

[0194] 17. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 12 to 16, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises network assisted user equipment selection.

[0195] 18. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 12 to 17, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses dedicated RRC signaling.

[0196] 19. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 12 to 18, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses broadcast RRC signaling.

[0197] 20. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 12 to 19, comprising means for prioritizing the remote third access node, wherein communicating with a user

[0198] B2.1 INDIRECT PROVISIONING CellX<-> CellA :CellX 1. An access node (CellX) comprising means for: communicating with a remote third access node to receive indications of whether or not the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role, in which the remote third access node provisions an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by a user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; conditionally, if the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role, communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node , so that the remote third access node can provision an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node .

[0199] 2. An access node as defined in paragraph 1 , wherein the received indications, from the third access node, of whether the remote third access node is performing an on- demand anchor role to enabling camping

[0200] On the third access node to get the uplink wake-up signal configuration

[0201] 3. An access node as defined in paragraph 1 or 2, wherein the received indications, from the third access node, of whether or not the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role is comprised within cell capabilities.

[0202] 4. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 3, wherein the received indications, from the third access node, of whether the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role is comprised within an XnAP Served Cell Information NR IE with capability information for the third access node.

[0203] 5. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 4, wherein the third access node is configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal that triggers on-demand delivery of system information by the second access node and the access node is not configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal that triggers on-demand delivery of system information by the second access node .

[0204] 6. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 5, comprising means for prioritizing the remote third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: sending to the user equipment information prioritizing selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node.

[0205] 7. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 6, comprising means for prioritizing selection of the remote third access node , so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: communicating with a user equipment to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wakeup signal configuration from the third access node.

[0206] 8. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs during a RRC connection release procedure.

[0207] 9. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 7, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs while user equipment is in idle state or inactive state.

[0208] 10. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 9, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises network assisted user equipment selection.

[0209] 11. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 10, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses dedicated RRC signaling.

[0210] 12. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 10, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses broadcast RRC signaling.

[0211] 13. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 12, comprising means for prioritizing the remote third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: sending to the user equipment information prioritizing selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs during a RRC connection release procedure, and wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses dedicated RRC signaling.

[0212] 14. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 13, comprising means for prioritizing selection of the remote third access node , so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: communicating with a user equipment to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs during a RRC connection release procedure, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises network assisted user equipment selection, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses broadcast RRC signaling.

[0213] 15. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 14, comprising means for prioritizing selection of the remote third access node, so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises: communicating with a user equipment to enable prioritized selection by the user equipment of the remote third access node so that user equipment gets uplink wake-up signal configuration from the third access node, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node occurs while user equipment is in idle state or inactive state, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node comprises network assisted user equipment selection, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node uses broadcast RRC signaling.

[0214] 16. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 15, wherein communicating with a user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node, comprises communicating with the user equipment to control prioritization of user equipment selection of the remote third access node over selection of the access node.

[0215] 17. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 16, comprising means for receiving the uplink wake-up signal configuration for the second access node from the second access node, using: the received uplink wake-up signal configuration for the second access node from the second access nodes to identify second access nodes and the received indications, from the third access node, of whether or not the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role, to identify the third access nodes.

[0216] 18. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 1 to 17, wherein the uplink wake-up signal configuration is transferred from the second access node to the access node via an Xn interface.

[0217] B2.2 INDIRECT PROVISIONING CellX<-> CellA :CellA

[0218] 19. An access node (CellA) comprising means for: communicating with a remote first access node to send indications of whether or not the access node is performing an on-demand anchor role, in which the third access node broadcasts an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by a user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0219] 20. An access node as defined in paragraph 19, wherein the sent indication of whether or not the access node is performing an on-demand anchor role enables camping on the access node to get the uplink wake-up signal configuration.

[0220] 21. An access node as defined in paragraph 19 or 20, wherein the sent indication of whether or not the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role is comprised within cell capabilities.

[0221] 22. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 19 to 21, wherein the sent indication, from the third access node, of whether the remote third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role is comprised within an XnAP Served Cell Information NR IE with capability information for the third access node.

[0222] 23. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 19 to 22, wherein the access node is configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal that triggers on-demand delivery of system information by the second access node, and the first access node is not configured for broadcasting a wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal that triggers on-demand delivery of system information by the second access node.

[0223] 24. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 19 to 23, comprising means for sending the indication of whether or not the access node is performing an on- demand anchor role to neighboring access nodes.

[0224] 25. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 19 to 24, comprising means for sending the indications of whether or not the access node is performing an on- demand anchor role to all neighboring access nodes via Xn interfaces.

[0225] 26. An access node as defined in any of paragraphs 19 to 25, wherein the neighboring access nodes extend beyond at least one access node configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration to include at least one access node configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

[0226] C: DIRECT & INDIRECT PROVISIONING UE

[0227] 1. A user equipment comprising means for: receiving, from a first access node , a first uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; and receiving, from the first access node , a configuration for requesting transmission from a third access node of a first uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; wherein the third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node, in which the third access node broadcasts an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node ; wherein the second access node is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0228] D: INDIRECT PROVISIONING UE

[0229] 1. A user equipment comprising means for: receiving, from the first access node , a configuration for requesting transmission from a third access node of a first uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; wherein the third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node, in which the third access node broadcasts an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node ; wherein the second access node is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0230] E: NW ASSISTANCE : UE

[0231] 1. A user equipment comprising means for: communicating with a remote first access node to receive assistance information that controls user equipment prioritization of user equipment selection of a remote third access node , so that the remote third access node can provision an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node , wherein the third access node is performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node, in which the third access node provisions an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node ; and wherein the second access node is performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal and wherein the remote first access node is not performing an on-demand anchor role for the second access node and is not performing an on-demand delivery role; in dependence upon the received information that controls prioritization of user equipment selection of a remote third access node, selecting the remote third access node wherein selecting the remote second access node comprises communicating with the remote third access node to receive information provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to the second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

[0232] Fig 8 illustrates an example of a controller 400 suitable for use in an apparatus 110, 120. Implementation of a controller 400 may be as controller circuitry. The controller 400 may be implemented in hardware alone, have certain aspects in software including firmware alone or can be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0233] As illustrated in Fig 8 the controller 400 may be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functionality, for example, by using executable instructions 406 in a general-purpose or special-purpose processor 402 that may be stored on a machine readable storage medium (disk, memory etc.) to be executed by such a processor 402.

[0234] The processor 402 is configured to read from and write to the memory 404. The processor 402 may also comprise an output interface via which data and / or commands are output by the processor 402 and an input interface via which data and / or commands are input to the processor 402.

[0235] The memory 404 stores instructions, program, or code 406 that controls the operation of the apparatus 110, 120 when loaded into the processor 402. The computer program instructions, program or code am 406, provide the logic and routines that enables the apparatus 110, 120 to perform the methods illustrated in the accompanying FIGs. The processor 402 by reading the memory 404 is configured to load and execute the instructions, program, or code 406. The apparatus 110, 120 comprises: at least one processor 402; and at least one memory 404 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 402, cause the apparatus at least to: perform any of the features described.

[0236] As illustrated in Fig 9, the instructions, program, or code 406 may arrive at the apparatus 110, 120 via any suitable delivery mechanism 408. The delivery mechanism 408 may be, for example, a machine readable medium, a computer- readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a record medium such as a Compact Disc Read- Only Memory (CD-ROM) or a Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) or a solid-state memory, an article of manufacture that comprises or tangibly embodies the computer program 406. The delivery mechanism may be a signal configured to reliably transfer the computer program 406. The apparatus 110, 120 may propagate or transmit the computer program 406 as a computer data signal.

[0237] The term “non-transitory” as used herein, is a limitation of the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not a signal ) as opposed to a limitation on data storage persistency (e.g., RAM vs. ROM).

[0238] In some examples, a computer program 406 comprises computer program instructions for causing an apparatus 110, 120 to perform or for performing: any of the methods and procedures described.

[0239] The computer program instructions may be comprised in a computer program, a non- transitory computer readable medium, a computer program product, a machine readable medium. In some but not necessarily all examples, the computer program instructions may be distributed over more than one computer program.

[0240] Although the memory 404 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it may be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which may be integrated / removable and / or may provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0241] Although the processor 402 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it may be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which may be integrated / removable. The processor 402 may be a single core or multi-core processor.

[0242] References to ‘computer-readable storage medium’, ‘computer program product’, ‘tangibly embodied computer program’ etc. or a ‘controller’, ‘computer’, ‘processor’ etc. should be understood to encompass not only computers having different architectures such as single / multi- processor architectures and sequential (Von Neumann) / parallel architectures but also specialized circuits such as field- programmable gate arrays (FPGA), application specific circuits (ASIC), signal processing devices and other processing circuitry. References to computer program, instructions, code etc. should be understood to encompass software for a programmable processor or firmware such as, for example, the programmable content of a hardware device whether instructions for a processor, or configuration settings for a fixed-function device, gate array or programmable logic device etc.

[0243] As used in this application, the term ‘circuitry’ may refer to one or more or all the following: hardware-only circuitry implementations (such as implementations in only analog and / or digital circuitry) and combinations of hardware circuits and software, such as (as applicable): a combination of analog and / or digital hardware circuit(s) with software / firmware and any portions of hardware processor(s) with software (including digital signal processor(s)), software, and memory or memories that work together to cause an apparatus, such as a mobile phone or server, to perform various functions and (c) hardware circuit(s) and or processor(s), such as a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that requires software (for example, firmware) for operation, but the software may not be present when it is not needed for operation.

[0244] This definition of circuitry applies to all uses of this term in this application, including in any claims. As a further example, as used in this application, the term circuitry also covers an implementation of merely a hardware circuit or processor and its (or their) accompanying software and / or firmware. The term circuitry also covers, for example and if applicable to the claim element, a baseband integrated circuit for a mobile device or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, or other computing or network device.

[0245] The blocks illustrated in the accompanying Figs may represent steps in a method and / or sections of code in the computer program 406. The illustration of a particular order to the blocks does not necessarily imply that there is a required or preferred order for the blocks and the order and arrangement of the block may be varied. Furthermore, it may be possible for some blocks to be omitted.

[0246] As used here ‘module’ refers to a unit or apparatus that excludes certain parts / components that would be added by an end manufacturer or a user. The apparatus 110, 120 can, for example be a module. A controller 400 of the apparatus 110, 120 can, for example be a module.

[0247] Where a structural feature has been described, it may be replaced by means for performing one or more of the functions of the structural feature whether that function or those functions are explicitly or implicitly described.

[0248] The above-described examples find application as enabling components of: automotive systems; telecommunication systems; electronic systems including consumer electronic products; distributed computing systems; media systems for generating or rendering media content including audio, visual and audio visual content and mixed, mediated, virtual and / or augmented reality; personal systems including personal health systems or personal fitness systems; navigation systems; user interfaces also known as human machine interfaces; networks including cellular, non-cellular, and optical networks; ad-hoc networks; the internet; the internet of things; virtualized networks; and related software and services.

[0249] The apparatus can be provided in an electronic device, for example, a mobile terminal, according to an example of the present disclosure. It should be understood, however, that a mobile terminal is merely illustrative of an electronic device that would benefit from examples of implementations of the present disclosure and, therefore, should not be taken to limit the scope of the present disclosure to the same. While in certain implementation examples, the apparatus can be provided in a mobile terminal, other types of electronic devices, such as, but not limited to: mobile communication devices, hand portable electronic devices, wearable computing devices, portable digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, mobile computers, desktop computers, televisions, gaming devices, laptop computers, cameras, video recorders, GPS devices and other types of electronic systems, can readily employ examples of the present disclosure. Furthermore, devices can readily employ examples of the present disclosure regardless of their intent to provide mobility.

[0250] The term ‘comprise’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y. If it is intended to use ‘comprise’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context by referring to ‘comprising only one...’ or by using ‘consisting.’

[0251] In this description, the wording ‘connect’, ‘couple’ and ‘communication’ and their derivatives mean operationally connected / coupled / in communication. It should be appreciated that any number or combination of intervening components can exist (including no intervening components), i.e. , to provide direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Any such intervening components can include hardware and / or software components.

[0252] As used herein, the term "determine / determining" (and grammatical variants thereof) can include, not least: calculating, computing, processing, deriving, measuring, investigating, identifying, looking up (for example, looking up in a table, a database, or another data structure), ascertaining and the like. Also, "determining" can include receiving (for example, receiving information), accessing (for example, accessing data in a memory), obtaining and the like. Also, " determine / determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like.

[0253] In this description, reference has been made to various examples. The description of features or functions in relation to an example indicates that those features or functions are present in that example. The use of the term ‘example’ or ‘for example’ or ‘can’ or ‘may’ in the text denotes, whether explicitly stated or not, that such features or functions are present in at least the described example, whether described as an example or not, and that they can be, but are not necessarily, present in some of or all other examples. Thus ‘example’, ‘for example’, ‘can’, or ‘may’ refers to a particular instance in a class of examples. A property of the instance can be a property of only that instance or a property of the class or a property of a sub-class of the class that includes some but not all the instances in the class. It is therefore implicitly disclosed that a feature described with reference to one example but not with reference to another example, can where possible be used in that other example as part of a working combination but does not necessarily have to be used in that other example.

[0254] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements are joined by “and” or “or” mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all the elements.

[0255] Although examples have been described in the preceding paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be appreciated that modifications to the examples given can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0256] Features described in the preceding description may be used in combinations other than the combinations explicitly described above.

[0257] Although functions have been described with reference to certain features, those functions may be performable by other features whether described or not.

[0258] The description of a feature, such as an apparatus or a component of an apparatus, configured to perform a function, or for performing a function, should additionally be considered to also disclose a method of performing that function. For example, description of an apparatus configured to perform one or more actions, or for performing one or more actions, should additionally be considered to disclose a method of performing those one or more actions with or without the apparatus.

[0259] Although features have been described with reference to certain examples, those features may also be present in other examples whether described or not.

[0260] The term ‘a’, ‘an’ or ‘the’ is used in this document with an inclusive not an exclusive meaning. That is any reference to X comprising a / an / the Y indicates that X may comprise only one Y or may comprise more than one Y unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. If it is intended to use ‘a’, ‘an’ or ‘the’ with an exclusive meaning then it will be made clear in the context. In some circumstances the use of ‘at least one’ or ‘one or more’ may be used to emphasis an inclusive meaning but the absence of these terms should not be taken to infer any exclusive meaning. The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature or (combination of features) itself and to features that achieve substantially the same technical effect (equivalent features). The equivalent features include, for example, features that are variants and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same way. The equivalent features include, for example, features that perform substantially the same function, in substantially the same way to achieve substantially the same result.

[0261] In this description, reference has been made to various examples using adjectives or adjectival phrases to describe characteristics of the examples. Such a description of a characteristic in relation to an example indicates that the characteristic is present in some examples exactly as described and is present in other examples substantially as described.

[0262] The above description describes some examples of the present disclosure however those of ordinary skill in the art will be aware of possible alternative structures and method features which offer equivalent functionality to the specific examples of such structures and features described herein above and which for the sake of brevity and clarity have been omitted from the above description. Nonetheless, the above description should be read as implicitly including reference to such alternative structures and method features which provide equivalent functionality unless such alternative structures or method features are explicitly excluded in the above description of the examples of the present disclosure.

[0263] Whilst endeavoring in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features believed to be of importance the Applicant may seek protection via the claims in respect of any patentable feature or combination of features hereinbefore referred to and / or shown in the drawings whether or not emphasis has been placed thereon, l / we claim:

Claims

45CLAIMS1. A user equipment (UE) comprising means for: receiving in radio resource control connected state, from a connected first access node a dedicated radio resource control message provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal; transmitting, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, to the second access node , an uplink wake-up signal in accordance with the provisioned uplink wake-up signal configuration; receiving, in radio resource control idle state or in radio resource control inactive state, from the second access node, system information in dependence upon the transmitted uplink wake-up signal.

2. A user equipment as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the dedicated radio resource control message is a radio resource control message provided via dedicated signaling sent on downlink dedicated control channel.

3. A user equipment as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the dedicated radio resource control message is an instance of a downlink dedicated control channel message (DL-DCCH-Message) class.

4. A user equipment as claimed in claim 1 , 2 or 3 wherein the dedicated radio resource control message is a RRCReconfiguration Message.

5. A user equipment as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the system information is system information block one, SIB 1.

6. A user equipment as claimed in any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system information enables one or more of: network attachment of user equipment; connection establishment of user equipment; reception of further system information.

467. A user equipment as claimed in any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the system information indicates one or more of: system bandwidth, frame structure, and physical layer timing information, frequency bands supported by the network, beamforming information, scheduling of other system information, and downlink control information.

8. A user equipment as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the user equipment comprises means for transferring to the first access node UE capability information comprising information relating to a capability of the user equipment to request on- demand system information.

9. An access node (CellX) comprising means for: transmitting to a user equipment in radio resource control connected state, a dedicated radio resource control message provisioning an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by the user equipment to a second access node configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal;10. An access node as claimed in claim 9, comprising means for selecting the user equipment based on a capability of the user equipment.

11. An access node as claimed in claim 9 or 10, comprising means for selecting the user equipment based on a capability of the user equipment to request on-demand system information.

12. An access node as claimed in any or claims 9 to 11, comprising means for selecting the user equipment based on received user equipment measurement reports.

13. An access node as claimed in any or claims 9 to 12, wherein the access node is not configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration and the second access node is configured for on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.4714. An access node (CellX) comprising means for: receiving an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission to the second access node by a user equipment wherein an uplink wake-up signal configuration has been transferred by a second access node performing an on-demand delivery role, in which the remote second access node provides on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon the wake-up signal.

15. An access node as claimed in claim 14, comprising means transferring uplink wake-up signal configuration to a user equipment via dedicated signaling.

16. An access node as claimed in claim 14 or 15, wherein the means for receiving an uplink wake-up signal configuration are configured to use the Xn interface.

17. An access node as claimed in any of claims 14 to 16, wherein the same uplink wake-up signal configuration is transferred to all neighboring access nodes 120.

18. An access node as claimed in any of claims 14 to 17, wherein the neighboring access nodes are a collection of access nodes that extend beyond at least one access node configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration to include at least one access node configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration .

19. An access node as claimed in any of claims 14 to 18, configured to not provide confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from the access node being configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

20. An access node (NES) comprising means for: receiving a wake-up signal; on-demand delivery of system information in dependence upon reception of the wake-up signal;transferring to neighboring access nodes an uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission to the access node by a user equipment.

21. An access node as claimed in claim 20, wherein the uplink wake-up signal configuration is transferred via an Xn interface.

22. An access node as claimed in claim 20 or 21 , comprising means for transferring to all neighboring access nodes the uplink wake-up signal configuration.

23. An access node as claimed in any of claims 20 to 22, wherein the neighboring access nodes extend beyond at least one access node configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration to include at least one access node configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

24. An access node as claimed in any of claims 20 to 23, wherein the access node is configured to not expect confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from access nodes configured for not broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

25. An access node as claimed in any of claims 20 to 24, wherein the access node is configured to expect confirmation of broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration from access nodes configured for broadcasting the wake-up signal configuration.

26. An access node as claimed in any of claims 20 to 25, comprising means for determining the uplink wake-up signal configuration for configuring a wake-up signal for transmission by a user equipment to the access node.

Images