Dynamically changing periodicities of common channels

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure disclose a gNodeB. The gNB is configured to monitor network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics. The gNB is then configured to update gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics. Thus, the updated gNB configuration optimizes the energy saving gains without impacting the critical performance KPIs. Further, the dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR allows the network to adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance in a data-driven manner.

Description

TITLEDYNAMICALLY CHANGING PERIODICITIES OF COMMON CHANNELSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION (S)This application claims priority to Indian Non-provisional application 202441087580, filed on November 13, 2024, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0001] Hie embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to dynamic change of periodicities of common channels.BACKGROUND

[0002] Modern communication systems, such as the Fifth Generation (5G) mobile communication technology, has revolutionized a wide variety of industries with its increased speed, reduced latency and improved reliability. The 5G technology is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency, and reliable communication services, enabling the delivery of large volumes of data. Data often flows from internet server to 5G User Equipment (UEs). This has enabled the seamless transmission of large volumes of data across wireless networks.

[0003] Power consumption of 5G hardware is between two and four times greater than Fourth Generation (4G), raising great challenges for site infrastructure construction. The concept of Network Energy Saving (NES) introduced energy-saving mode for cells. NES cells do not need to transmit common channel signals in absence of UE transmission in the cell, thereby allowing the cell to be in energy-saving mode. For example, the NES cells have the flexibility to not transmit periodic Synchronization Signal Block (SSB), so that in case of no UE transmissions in the associated cell, energy saving can be facilitated.

[0004] With respect to New Radio (NR) releases, 3GPP has introduced several enhancements to support Network Energy Savings (NES). In 3GPP Rel-15, time-domain positions of transmitted Synchronization Signal Block (SSBs) within a half frame are semi- statically configured. Further, the UE assumes a single periodicity for the transmitted SSBs. The transmission of common signal and channels or reception of random-access signals may limit the gNB’s ability to use (deeper) sleep modes to save energy.

[0005] Currently, system information (SI) update mechanism can adapt the parameters in the cell, such as those associated with downlink common and broadcast signals. The downlink common and broadcast signals may comprise SSB / System information (SI) / paging / cell common Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH), and / or Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periodicities.

[0006] The energy saving (ES) gains depend on traffic models and the values of these system parameters including SSB, SI, Paging and Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periodicities. Presently, these system parameters are statically configured based on statistical analysis of the network over a period of time. This limits the energy saving gains. Thus, there is a scope to further optimize energy saving by configuring system parameters dynamically.[00(17] The information disclosed in this background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the disclosure and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.SUMMARY

[0008] In Rel-15 NR, time-domain positions of transmitted Synchronization Signal Block (SSBs) within a half frame are semi-statically configured. The transmission of common signal and channels or reception of random-access signals may limit the gNB’s ability to use (deeper) sleep modes to save energy. Hence, the energy saving (ES) gains depend on the traffic models and the values of various parameters like SSB, SI, Pagingand Random Access Channel (RACK) transmission periodicities. Presently, these system parameters are statically configured based on statistical analysis of the network over a period of time. This limits the energy saving gains. Thus, there exist a need in the art to optimize energy saving by configuring system parameters dynamically.

[0099] In one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a gNodeB (gNB) is disclosed. The gNB is configured to monitor network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics. The gNB is then configured to update gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.

[0010] In another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is disclosed. The method comprises monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics. The method then comprises updating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.

[0011] In yet another non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is disclosed. The non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions that when executed by an apparatus causes the apparatus to perform operations of monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics. The computer-readable instructions when executed by the apparatus further causes the apparatus to perform operation of updating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network per forman ce metrics.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0012] Further embodiments and advantages of the present disclosure will be readily understood from the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings. Reference numerals have been used to refer to identical or functionally similar elements. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present disclosure wherein:

[0013] FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary SSB transmission periodicity of a cell, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates a communication environment depicting communication between two gNodeB (gNB) for dynamically changing periodicities of common channels, in accordance with some embodiments of tire present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 3 illustrates training of AVML Model for optimizing the various network configuration periodicities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG 4 illustrates a detailed diagram of an apparatus for dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of a method for dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure; and[001 §] FIG. 6 shows a diagram of example components of a gNodeB (gNB) for dynamically changing periodicities of common channels, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

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

[0021] Even though particular combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of implementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification. Although each dependent claim listed below may directly depend on only one claim, die disclosure of implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with every other claim in the claim set.

[0022] No element, act, or instruction used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles “a” and “an” are intended to include one or more items, and may be used interchangeably with“one or more.” Also, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” “include,” “including,” or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, expressions such as “at least one of [A] and [Bl,” “[A] and / or [B],” or “at least one of [A] or [B ]” are to be understood as including only A, only B, or both A and

[0023] The foregoing disclosure provides illustration and description but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure or may be acquired from practice of the implementations.

[0024] It shall be noted that, for convenience of explanation, the disclosure uses terms and names defined in the 3rd Generation Partnership Project Radio Access Network (3GPP RAN) standards. More specifically, the terminology Physical Resource Block (PRB) Utilization, RRC Connected UEs, Idle / Inactive UEs), mobility patterns, guaranteed bit rate (GBR) PRB usage, non-GBR PRB usage, Active UEs per Data Radio Bearer (DRB), Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) Control Channel Element(CCE) usage, Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) Service Data Unit (SDU) data, Quality of service Class Identifier (QCI), and 5G QoS Identifier (5QI) are to be interpreted as specified by the 3GPP RAN standards.

[0025] Mie terminology “common channel signals” and “common channels” have same meaning and are alternatively used throughout the specification. The terminology “network configuration periodicities” and “periodicities of the common channel” have same meaning and are alternatively used throughout the specification.[0(126] In an embodiment, the gNodeB may monitor network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics may comprise a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics. The gNodeB may then update gNB configuration to change common channel periodicities of thecommon channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics. Thus, the updated gNB configuration optimizes the energy saving gains without impacting the critical performance KPIs. Further, the dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR allows the network to adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance in a data-driven manner. The gNB dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals is explained in detail with reference to FIGS.1-6.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates exemplary SSB transmission periodicity of a cell, in accordance wi th some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0028] The SSB periodicity refers to an interval at which the SSB is transmitted by the cell. As shown in fig. 1, the cell may transmit SSB transmissions SSB Txi, SSB TX2, SSB TX3, SSB TX4, periodically after a predetermined time interval ‘Tl’. This predetermined time interval is statically configured by the operator.

[0029] Hence, even though there are no UE transmissions in the Cell, the SSB transmissions take place periodically. To overcome the above drawback, the present disclosure describes dynamic optimization of SSB transmission periodicity and other common channels like system information (SI) / Paging / RACH transmission periods to maximize energy saving gains.

[0030] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, changes in the SSB transmission periodicity should be carefully planned and coordinated to ensure smooth network operation and minimize disruptions to the ongoing services. When the SSB periodicity changes, several other transmissions may need to be adjusted to maintain network efficiency and synchronization, thereby ensuring stable network behavior, and ‘"correct” network behavior. The present disclosure, by using data-driven mechanism, all the periodicities are changed such that the relative periods of the common channel transmissions maintain a logical flow.

[0031] The present disclosure describes critical parameters which drive the requirement of the transmission periods of various system configurations. In one non-limiting embodiment, the critical parameters may define network performance metrics and may include cell related measurements, LIE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics. However, the critical parameters are not limited to above examples and any other parameter contributes to transmission periods of various system configurations is well within the scope of present disclosure.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the SSB transmission periodicities may be configured with different values such as 5ms, 10ms, 20ms, 40ms, 80ms, or 160ms. The choice of SSB transmission periodicity may depend on various factors such as network load that may comprise Physical Resource Block (PRB) Utilization, Number of Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs), Number of Idle / inactive UEs. The choice of SSB transmission periodicity may depend on mobility patterns that is defined by at least Number of Incoming Handover (HO) and Number of Outgoing HO. However, the choice of SSB transmission is not limited to above parameters and any other parameter related to SSB transmission is well within the scope of present disclosure.

[0033] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, System Information Block (SIB) and other System information (SI) are transmitted periodically, and the periodicity can vary depending on the type of SIB and network requirements. The factors influencing the SIB / SI periodicities may include a number of idle / inactive UEs, Control Resource Set (CORESET) multiplexing options, Inter- / Intra-cell reselection parameters, etc. However, the factors influencing the SIB / SI periodicities are not limited to above parameters and any other parameter related to SIB / SI is well within the scope of present disclosure.

[0034] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, paging is a method used by the network to notify the RRC Connected UEs of changes in SIB / SI content. The UE’s mobility state plays a significant role in determining the paging cycle. If the UE is in a highly mobile state, the network may opt for shorter paging cycles to ensure timelydelivery of paging messages. Conversely, for UEs in a less mobile state, longer paging cycles may be used to reduce unnecessary paging overhead.

[0035] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the periodicity of RACK transmission opportunities may also be adjusted to balance between access delay, resource utilization, and network load. Further, the dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR allows the network to adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance of the network in a data-driven manner.

[0036] FIG. 2 illustrates a communication environment depicting communication between two gNodeB (gNB) for dynamically changing periodicities of common channels, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] The communication environment 200 may include a first gNB 210 and a second gNB 220. The first gNB 210 may comprise a gNodeB Centralized Unit (gNB-CU) 211 and gNodeB Distributed Unit (gNB-DU) 213 in communication with each other via Fl interface. The first gNB 210 may further comprise a cell 215. The second gNB 220 may comprise a gNodeB Centralized Unit (gNB-CU) 221 and gNodeB Distributed Unit (gNB-DU) 223 in communication with each other via Fl interface. The second gNB 220 may further comprise a cell 225. In one non-limiting embodiment, the first gNB 210 may be a first Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) node and the second gNB 220 may be a second NG-RAN node.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, the gNB 210 may continuously monitor network performance metrics as defined earlier for each of the common channel signals. In one non-limiting embodiment, the network performance metrics may be monitored at regular interval.

[0039] Then, the gNB 210 may identify conditions that trigger the need for changing the periodicity of the common channel signals, such as increased UE density, or PRB usage, or changes in mobility patterns. For the identification of the trigger condition, the plurality of parameters of network performance metrics are compared with respectivepredetermined threshold criteria. For example, if the PRB usage of the cell is increased to 80 percent, then a trigger condition for decreasing the periodicity is generated.

[0040] Once the trigger condition is generated, the gNB 210 may update the gNB configuration to change the periodicity of the of the common channel signals. This involves modification of periodicity parameters in the gNB’s configuration files or through network management systems. In one embodiment, the OAM / Configuration Manager may update the gNB configuration to change the periodicity of the of the common channel signals. In another embodiment, a RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) platform entity may push down configuration changes to the OAM / Configuration Manager.

[0041] Then, the modified common channel periodicities of the common channel signals need to be broadcasted to the RRC Connected UEs or the modified common channel periodicities of the common channel signals need to be configured on the RRC Connected UEs.

[0042] In an embodiment, additional modifications to the UEs may be required. The modification may include changes in configurations like measurement object. For example, the RRC Connected UE of cell 215 may be configured to report measurements of cell 225 and that configuration might tell the user to report measurements at every 20ms. But if cell 225 is not transmitting the corresponding SSB every 20ms, then, the gNB 210 needs to notify its neighbors, and the neighbors need to reconfigure the users to then measure cell 225 SSB at a different periodicity.

[0043] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, some of the common channel transmission in one cell has an impact on the neighbouring cells. For example, an update in periodicities of the common channel signals of the cell 215 may impact the transmission of the cell 225. In such a scenario, information on periodicities of the common channel signals of cell 215 may be communicated from the gNB 210 to the gNB 220. The information on periodicities of the common channel signals of cell 215 may be transmitted by gNB-CU 211 to the neighboring gNB-CU 221 over Xn interface.

[0044] Thus, the updated gNB configuration optimizes the energy saving gains without impacting the critical performance KPIs. Further, the dynamically changing periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR allows the network to adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance of the network in a data-driven manner.

[0045] FIG. 3 illustrates training of AI / ML Model for optimizing the various network configuration periodicities, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI / ML) model may be used for optimizing the various network configuration periodicities of common channel signals. The AI / ML model may make data-driven decisions based on historical data from the network and using the real-time network conditions to make predictions.

[0047] In an embodiment, the steps involved in making dynamic changes to the periodicities of common channel signals with the use of AI / ML models are discussed:

[0048] At step SI, relevant data may be collected from the network. The relevant data may comprise sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals. The relevant data undergoes the step of pre-processing, as shown in step S2.

[0049] At step S3, an appropriate AI / ML model may be selected and the AI / ML model may be trained using the preprocessed data. In one non-limiting embodiment, the AI / ML model may be based on supervised learning or reinforcement learning. Then in the step S3, the trained AI / ML model may be validated using a separate validation dataset to ensure it generalizes well to unknown data. Also, data is continuously fed into the trained model to improve the efficiency of the AI / ML model.

[0050] At step S4, the trained AI / ML model may be deployed in the network management system and the real-time data of the network condition may be used as aninput to the trained AI / ML model. The trained AI / ML model may make inferences about optimal periodicities based on current network conditions. In one non-limiting aspect, the trained AI / ML model may be configured to change thresholds dynamically for triggering conditions of the plurality of parameters and the periodicities of the common channel signals, as discussed in above embodiments.

[0051] Thus, the trained AI / ML model dynamically changes periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR, allows the network to adapt to real-time changing network conditions, and optimizes performance in a data-driven manner.

[0052] FIG 4 illustrates a detailed diagram of an apparatus 400 for dynamically changing periodicities of common channels, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The apparatus 400 may be gNB or NG-RAN node, as discussed in above embodiments.

[0053] In some implementations, the apparatus 400 may include an I / O interface 401, a processor 403, and a memory 405. In one non-limiting embodiment, the apparatus 400 may comprise other components for performing the functionalities of the gNB or NG-RAN node. In an embodiment, the memory 405 may be communicatively coupled to the processor 403. The processor 403 may be configured to perform one or more functions of the gNB 210 for dynamically changing periodicities of common channels. In an embodiment, the memory 405 may store data 407. Although the FIG. 4 shows the hardware components of the gNB 210, it is to be understood that other embodiments are not limited thereon. In other embodiments, the gNB 210 may include less or a greater number of components. Further, the labels or names of the components are used only for illustrative purpose and does not limit the scope.

[0054] In an embodiment, the data 407 stored in the memory 405 may include, without limitation, gNB configuration database. Further, the memory 405 may include AI / ML Model 409. In some implementations, the data 407 may be stored within the memory 405 in the form of various data structures. Additionally, the data 407 may be organized using data models, such as relational or hierarchical data models.

[0055] As used herein, the term module may refer to an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a hardware processor 403 (shared, dedicated, or group) and memory that execute one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality. In an implementation, the processor 403 may be configured as stand-alone hardware computing unit. In an embodiment, the processor 403 may be used to perform various miscellaneous functionalities on the gNB 210.

[0056] The I / O interfaces 401 may allow the apparatus 400 to communicate with one or more nodes / devices either directly or through other devices. The I / O interfaces 401 may include network interface to allow the apparatus 400 to interact with one or more networks either directly or via any other network.

[0057] The processor 403 may be configured to monitor network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics.

[0058] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cell related measurements at least comprises Physical Resource Block (PRB) utilization and number of RRC Connected UEs, the UE related measurements comprises one or more of: average downlink (DL) / uplink (UL) throughput, DL / UL PRB usage, DL / UL scheduled IP throughput, buffer status information, the mobility statistics comprises one or more of: Intra / Inter- frequency handover (HO) success ratio, number of incoming HO, number of outgoing HO, and the random access channel statistics comprises one or more of: Random Access Channel (RACH) Success Rate and Number of RACH attempts.

[0059] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cell related measurements may further comprise DL / UL Total PRB usage, DL / UL guaranteed bit rate (GBR) PRB Usage, DL / UL non-GBR PRB Usage, RRC connection number, available RRC connection, Mean and Maximum Number of Active UEs per Data Radio Bearer (DRB)in the DL / UL, DL / UL Scheduling Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) Control Channel Element(CCE) usage, DL / UL Cell Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) Service Data Unit (SDU) data, DL / UL PRB usage per Quality of service Class Identifier (QCI), DL / UL PRB usage per 5G QoS Identifier (5QI), and DL / UL PRB usage per slice.

[0060] To monitor the network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, the processor 403 may be configured to compare the plurality of parameters with respective predetermined threshold criteria to identify a trigger condition. For example, the number of RRC Connected UEs is increased to 80 percent, then a trigger condition for decreasing the periodicity is generated.

[0061] The processor 403 may be then configured to update gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics. The gNB configuration may be updated in response to a detection of the trigger condition.

[0062] The updating of the gNB configuration may require the processor 403 to modify periodicity parameters in gNB’s configuration files in the gNB configuration database to change periodicities of the common channel signals. The common channel signals at least comprise System Information Block (SIB), other System information (SI), Paging, Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periods.

[0063] Once the gNB configuration is updated, the processor 403 may be configured to broadcast updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals to Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs) or may be configured to configure updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals on the RRC connected UEs.

[0064] Further, the processor 403 may be configured to notify updated gNB configuration to one or more neighboring gNB over Xn interface. Some of the common channel transmission in one cell has an impact on the neighbouring cells. For example.an update in periodicities of the common channel signals of a cell A may impact the transmission of a neighbour cell B. In such a scenario, notify updated gNB configuration of cell A may be communicated to the neighbour cell B.

[0065] In another embodiment, the AI / ML model 409 may be trained by the processor 403. The processor 403 may be configured to train the AI / ML model 409 with sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals. In the same embodiment, update the gNB configuration, the processor 403 may be configured to change, using the AI / ML Model 409, dynamic thresholds for triggering conditions and the periodicities of the common channel signals.

[0066] The AI / ML Model 409 may apply model training along with the real-time data of the network condition to generate optimal periodicities based on current network conditions. Thus, the trained AI / ML model dynamically changes periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR, allows the network to adapt to real-time changing network conditions, and optimizes performance in a data-driven manner.

[0067] Further, the apparatus 400 provides updated gNB configuration optimizes the energy saving gains without impacting the critical performance KPIs.

[0068] Referring now to FIG. 5, which illustrates a flowchart of a method for dynamically changing periodicities of common channels. The method 500 is merely provided for exemplary purposes, and embodiments are intended to include or otherwise cover network energy saving (NES) and carrier aggregation procedures. In one non-limiting embodiment, the method 400 may be performed by gNB or a NG-RAN node, as discussed in above embodiments.

[0069] The method 500 may include, at block 501, monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals. The network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics.

[0070] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cell related measurements at least comprises Physical Resource Block (PRB) utilization and number of RRC Connected UEs, the UE related measurements comprises one or more of: average downlink (DL) / uplink (UL) throughput, DL / UL PRB usage, DL / UL scheduled IP throughput, buffer status information, the mobility statistics comprises one or more of: Intra / lnter- frequency handover (HO) success ratio, number of incoming HO, number of outgoing HO, and the random access channel statistics comprises one or more of: Random Access Channel (RACH) Success Rate and Number of RACH attempts.

[0071] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cell related measurements may further comprise DL / UL Total PRB usage, DL / UL guaranteed bit rate (GBR) PRB Usage, DL / UL non-GBR PRB Usage, RRC connection number, available RRC connection, Mean and Maximum Number of Active UEs per Data Radio Bearer (DRB) in the DL / UL, DL / UL Scheduling Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) Control Channel Element(CCE) usage, DL / UL Cell Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP) Service Data Unit (SDU) data, DL / UL PRB usage per Quality of service Class Identifier (QCI), DL / UL PRB usage per 5G QoS Identifier (5QI), DL / UL PRB usage per slice.

[0072] For monitor the network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, the method 500 may comprise comparing the plurality of parameters with respective predetermined threshold criteria to identify a trigger condition. For example, the number of RRC Connected UEs is increased to 80 percent, then a trigger condition for decreasing the periodicity is generated.

[0073] The method 500 may include, at block 503, updating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics. For updating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals, the method 500 may comprise updating the gNB configuration in response to a detection of the trigger condition.

[0074] For the updating of the gNB configuration the method 500 may comprise modifying periodicity parameters in gNB’s configuration files in the gNB configuration database to change periodicities of the common channel signals. The common channel signals at least comprise System Information Block (SIB), other System information (SI), Paging, Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periods.

[0075] Once the gNB configuration is updated, the method 500 may comprise broadcasting updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals to Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs) or may comprise configuring updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals on the RRC connected UEs.

[0076] Further, the method 500 may comprise notifying updated gNB configuration to one or more neighboring gNB over Xn interface. Some of the common channel transmission in one cell has an impact on the neighbouring cells. For example, an update in periodicities of the common channel signals of a cell A may impact the transmission of a neighbour cell B. In such a scenario, notify updated gNB configuration of cell A may be communicated to the neighbour cell B.

[0077] In another embodiment, the AI / ML model may be trained for updating the gNB configuration. The method 500 may comprise training the AI / ML model with sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals. In the same embodiment, for updating the gNB configuration, the method 500 may comprise changing, using the AI / ML Model, dynamic thresholds for triggering conditions and the periodicities of the common channel signals.

[0078] In an embodiment, the method 500 may comprise applying the model training of the AI / ML Model along with the real-time data of the network condition to generate optimal periodicities based on current network conditions. Thus, the trained AI / ML model dynamically changes periodicities of common channel signals in 5G NR, allows the network to adapt to real-time changing network conditions, and optimizes performance in a data-driven manner.

[0079] Further, the method 500 provides updated gNB configuration optimizes the energy saving gains without impacting the critical performance KPIs.

[0080] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a gNB 600. As shown in FIG. 6, the gNB 600 comprises a processor 610, a memory 620, a storage component 630, an input component 640, an output component 650, a communication interface 660, and a bus 670.

[0081] The processor 610, as used herein, means any type of computational circuit that may comprise hardware elements and software elements. The processor 610 may be embodied as a multi-core processor, a single core processor, or a combination of one or more multi-core processors and / or one or more single core processors, a distributed processing system, or the like. The processor 610 may be a Central Processing Unit (CPU) a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component.

[0082] The memory 620 includes a non-transitory computer readable medium. Memory 620 includes a random-access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., a flash memory, a magnetic memory, and / or an optical memory) that stores information and / or instructions for use by processor 610. The memory 620 comprises machine-readable instructions which are executable by the processor 610. These machine-readable instructions when executed by the processor 610 cause the processor 610 to perform one or more method steps of an embodiment described above.

[0083] The storage component 630 stores information and / or software related to the operation and use of the gNB 600. For example, the storage component 630 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optic disk, and / or a solid- state disk), a compact disc (CD), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a floppy disk, a cartridge,a magnetic tape, and / or another type of non-transitory computer-readable medium, along with a corresponding drive.

[0084] The input component 640 is configured to receive information, such as user input. For example, the input component 640 may include, but not be limited to, a touch screen display, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a switch, and / or a microphone. Additionally, or alternatively, the input component 640 may include a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or an actuator).

[0085] The output component 650 is configured to provide output information from the gNB 600. For example, the output component 650 may be, but not limited to, a display, a speaker, instructions to an external device, and / or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0086] The communication interface 660 is an interface that provides a communication connection to other devices, such as external devices and internal devices. The connection by the communication interface 660 can be a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections, and can be a direct connection or an indirect connection via a communication network that exists between the gNB 600 and other devices. In other words, the standard of the communication interface 660 is not limited.

[0087] The bus 670 acts as an interconnect between the processor 610, the memory 620, the storage component 630, the input component 640, the output component 650, and the communication interface 660 of the gNB 600. The bus 670 may include a wired interconnection or a wireless interconnection.

[0088] The number and arrangement of components shown in FIG. 6 are provided as an example. In practice, gNB 600 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than thoseshown in FIG. 6. Additionally, or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the gNB 600 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the gNB 600.

[0089] The present disclosure may further include the below embodiments:1. A gNodeB (gNB ) configured to:monitor network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, wherein the network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics; andupdate gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.2. The gNB of embodiment 1, wherein to monitor the network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, the gNB is configured to:compare the plurality of parameters with respective predetermined threshold criteria to identify a trigger condition.3. The gNB of embodiment 2, wherein to update the gNB configuration, the gNB is configured to:update gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals, in response to a detection of the trigger condition.4. The gNB of embodiment 1, wherein to update the gNB configuration, the gNB is configured to:modify periodicity parameters in gNB’s configuration files to change periodicities of the common channel signals, wherein the common channel signals at least comprise System Information Block (SIB), other System information (SI), Paging, Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periods.b. The gNB of embodiment 1, further configured to:broadcast or configure updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals to Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs).6. The gNB of embodiment 1, further configured to:notify updated gNB configuration to one or more neighboring gNB over Xn interface.7. The gNB of embodiment 1, wherein:the cell related measurements at least comprises Physical Resource Block (PRB) utilization and number of RRC Connected UEs,the UE related measurements comprises one or more of: average downlink (DL) / uplink (UL) throughput, DL / UL PRB usage, DL / UL scheduled IP throughput, buffer status information,the mobility statistics comprises one or more of: Intra / Inter-frequency handover (HO) success ratio, number of incoming HO, number of outgoing HO, andthe random access channel statistics comprises one or more of: Random Access Channel (RACH) Success Rate and Number of RACH attempts.8. The gNB of embodiment 1, further configured to:train an Al Model with sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals.9. The gNB of embodiment 8, wherein to update the gNB configuration, the gNB is configured to:change, using the Al Model, dynamic thresholds for triggering conditions and the periodicities of the common channel signals.10. A method performed by a gNodeB (gNB), the method comprising: monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, wherein the network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics; andupdating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.11. The method of embodiment 10, wherein monitoring the network performance metrics for each of common channel signals comprises:comparing the plurality of parameters with respective predetermined threshold criteria to identify a trigger condition.12. The method of embodiment 11, wherein updating the gNB configuration comprises:updating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals, in response to a detection of the trigger condition.13. The method of embodiment 10, wherein updating the gNB configuration comprises:modifying periodicity parameters in gNB’s configuration files to change periodicities of the common channel signals, wherein the common channel signals at least comprise System Information Block (SIB), other System information (SI), Paging, Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periods.14. The method of embodiment 10, further comprising:broadcasting or configuring updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals to Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs).15. The method of embodiment 10, further comprising:notifying updated gNB configuration to one or more neighboring gNB over Xn interface.16. The method of embodiment 10, wherein:the cell related measurements at least comprises Physical Resource Block (PRB) utilization and number of RRC Connected UEs,the UE related measurements comprises one or more of: average downlink (DL) / uplink (UL) throughput, DL / UL PRB usage, DL / UL scheduled IP throughput, buffer status information,the mobility statistics comprises one or more of: Intra / Inter- frequency handover (HO) success ratio, number of incoming HO, number of outgoing HO, andthe random access channel statistics comprises one or more of: Random Access Channel (RACH) Success Rate and Number of RACH attempts.17. The method of embodiment 10, further comprising:training an AI Model with sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals.18. The method of embodiment 17, wherein update the gNB configuration comprises:changing, using the AI Model, dynamic thresholds for triggering conditions and the periodicities of the common channel signals.19. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions that when executed by an apparatus causes the apparatus to perform operations of:monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, wherein the network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics; andupdating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A gNodeB (gNB) configured to:monitor network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, wherein the network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics; and update gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.

2. The gNB of claim 1, wherein to monitor the network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, the gNB is configured to:compare the plurality of parameters with respective predetermined threshold criteria to identify a trigger condition.

3. The gNB of claim 2, wherein to update the gNB configuration, the gNB is configured to:update gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals, in response to a detection of the trigger condition.

4. The gNB of claim 1, wherein to update the gNB configuration, the gNB is configured to:modify periodicity parameters in gNB’s configuration files to change periodicities of the common channel signals, wherein the common channel signals at least comprise System Information Block (SIB), other System information (SI), Paging, Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periods.

5. The gNB of claim 1, further configured to:broadcast or configure updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals to Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs).

6. The gNB of claim 1, further configured to:notify updated gNB configuration to one or more neighboring gNB over Xn interface.

7. The gNB of claim 1, wherein:the cell related measurements at least comprises Physical Resource Block (PRB) utilization and number of RRC Connected UEs,the UE related measurements comprises one or more of: average downlink (DL) / uplink (UL) throughput, DL / UL PRB usage, DL / UL scheduled IP throughput, buffer status information,the mobility statistics comprises one or more of: Intra / Inter-frequency handover (HO) success ratio, number of incoming HO, number of outgoing HO, andthe random access channel statistics comprises one or more of: Random Access Channel (RACH) Success Rate and Number of RACH attempts.

8. The gNB of claim 1, further configured to:train an AI Model with sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals.

9. The gNB of claim 8, wherein to update the gNB configuration, the gNB is configured to:change, using the AI Model, dynamic thresholds for triggering conditions and the periodicities of the common channel signals.

10. A method performed by a gNodeB (gNB), the method comprising:monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, wherein the network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics; andupdating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein monitoring the network performance metrics for each of common channel signals comprises:comparing the plurality of parameters with respective predetermined threshold criteria to identify a trigger condition.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein updating the gNB configuration comprises:updating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals, in response to a detection of the trigger condition.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein updating the gNB configuration comprises:modifying periodicity parameters in gNB’s configuration files to change periodicities of the common channel signals, wherein the common channel signals at least comprise System Information Block (SIB), other System information (SI), Paging, Random Access Channel (RACH) transmission periods.

14. The method of claim 10, further comprising:broadcasting or configuring updated gNB configuration along with the change in the content in the common channel signals to Radio Resource Control (RRC) connected user equipment (UEs).

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising:notifying updated gNB configuration to one or more neighboring gNB over Xn interface.

16. The method of claim 10, wherein:the cell related measurements at least comprises Physical Resource Block (PRB) utilization and number of RRC Connected UEs,the UE related measurements comprises one or more of: average downlink (DL) / uplink (UL) throughput, DL / UL PRB usage, DL / UL scheduled IP throughput, buffer status information,the mobility statistics comprises one or more of: Intra / Inter-frequency handover (HO) success ratio, number of incoming HO, number of outgoing HO, andthe random access channel statistics comprises one or more of: Random Access Channel (RACH) Success Rate and Number of RACH attempts.

17. The method of claim 10, further comprising:training an AI Model with sample values of plurality of parameters and corresponding sample periodicities of the common channel signals.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein update the gNB configuration comprises: changing, using the AI Model, dynamic thresholds for triggering conditions and the periodicities of the common channel signals.

19. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having computer-readable instructions that when executed by an apparatus causes the apparatus to perform operations of:monitoring network performance metrics for each of common channel signals, wherein the network performance metrics comprises a plurality of parameters including one or more of: cell related measurements, UE related measurements, mobility statistics, and random access channel statistics; andupdating gNB configuration to change periodicities of the common channel signals at least based on the monitored network performance metrics.

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