Method and system for determining transmission status in wireless communication cells

Abstract

The present invention relates to wireless communication systems and, more particularly, to determining transmission status of system information in wireless communication cells, including cells operating in energy-saving modes. The disclosure provides mechanisms that enable user equipments (UEs) to efficiently acquire system information, such as system information block 1 (SIB 1), while reducing unnecessary uplink signaling. In one aspect, a base station operating as an NFS cell indicates a transmission status of on-demand system information using uplink wakeup signal (UL-WUS) configuration, repurposed broadcast parameters conveyed through a master information block or physical broadcast channel, and / or blind decoding during a predefined transmission duration. A first UE may trigger on-demand transmission of system information using UL-WUS, while additional UEs determine the transmission status and acquire the system information without transmitting redundant UL-WUS signals.

Description

[0001] METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING TRANSMISSION STATUS IN WIRELESS COMMUNICATION CELLS

[0002] Cross reference to other applications

[0003] This application claims priority to Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202541009810 entitled “SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING TRANSMISSION STATUS OF NETWORK ENERGY SAVING CELLS” filed on February 06, 2025, Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202541013141 entitled “STANDALONE NETWORK ENERGY SAVING CELL FOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATION” filed on February 15, 2025, which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

[0004] Field of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to wireless communication systems, and more particularly to methods and systems for determining transmission status of wireless communication cells during on-demand system information transmission to user equipment.

[0006] Background of the Invention

[0007] Wireless communication systems broadcast system information to enable user equipment (UE) to access and operate within a radio access network. In legacy cellular systems, including earlier releases of fifthgeneration new radio (5G-NR), certain system information blocks, such as system information block 1 (SIB1), are transmitted periodically by base stations irrespective of actual network load. While such always-on transmission simplifies initial access, it results in unnecessary energy consumption, particularly under low traffic conditions.

[0008] To improve network energy efficiency, on-demand system information transmission mechanisms have been introduced in which a network energy saving (NES) cell transmits system information only when requested by a UE. In such mechanisms, a UE transmits an uplink wakeupsignal (UL-WUS), for example through a random access preamble, to request transmission of SIB1 or other system information. In response, the NES cell transmits the requested system information for a predefined duration. These approaches reduce continuous downlink transmissions and improve energy efficiency compared to always-on broadcasting.

[0009] However, existing on-demand system information transmission solutions introduce new technical challenges. First technical problem arises when multiple UEs attempt to access the same NES cell. In particular, when a first UE triggers on-demand transmission of SIB1, the NES cell transmits SIB1 for a predefined time interval. During this interval, additional UEs may independently transmit their own UL-WUS requests, even though the system information is already being transmitted. As a result, redundant uplink signaling, repeated random access responses, and unnecessary control signaling occur, leading to increased signaling overhead, higher access latency, and inefficient utilization of radio resources.

[0010] A second technical problem observed in existing implementations arises in multi-cell deployment scenarios involving anchor cells and neighboring cells operating in energy-efficient modes. In such architectures, a user equipment (UE) typically initially accesses an anchor or serving cell to obtain baseline system information and access configuration and may subsequently attempt to access a neighboring cell, such as a network energy saving (NES) cell. While the NES cell may be capable of providing updated uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration information to the UE, indication of system information broadcast status and coordination of UL-WUS-related parameters across multiple cells generally require intercell signaling and coordination. Consequently, system information associated with anchor or serving cells may continue to be transmitted periodically irrespective of actual traffic demand. Further, changes in UL-WUS configuration or system information transmission status for neighboring cells may require backhaul signaling and coordination among multiple cells, increasing system complexity and signaling overhead. Theseaspects can restrict flexible deployment of cells operating in energy-efficient modes and may lead to increased access latency for UEs in dense or dynamic deployment scenarios. Accordingly, there exists a need for improved methods and systems for on-demand system information transmission in network energy saving cells that primarily reduce redundant uplink signaling and access latency when multiple UEs attempt to access an NES cell, while also addressing additional inefficiencies associated with reliance on always-on anchor cells for system information and wakeup signal configuration.

[0011] Objective of the Invention

[0012] The principal objective of the present invention is to provide a method and system for determining transmission status of on-demand system information in network energy saving cells so as to reduce redundant uplink signaling and access latency when multiple user equipments attempt to access a network energy saving cell.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to improve efficiency of on-demand system information transmission by enabling user equipment to identify and determine whether system information is already being transmitted by a network energy saving cell, thereby avoiding unnecessary uplink wakeup signal transmissions.

[0014] Another objective of the present invention is to reduce signaling overhead and radio resource consumption in wireless communication networks by minimizing repeated random access procedures associated with on-demand system information requests.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention is to enhance network energy savings by enabling flexible transmission of system information in network energy saving cells without requiring continuous periodic broadcasting of system information.

[0016] Another objective of the present invention is to reduce dependency of network energy saving cells on always-on anchor cells for systeminformation and uplink wakeup signal configuration, thereby improving deployment flexibility and reducing backhaul signaling overhead.

[0017] Another objective of the present invention is to improve user equipment access performance by reducing system information acquisition delay in low-traffic and high-density deployment scenarios.

[0018] A further objective of the present invention is to provide a scalable mechanism for on-demand system information transmission that is applicable across different wireless communication standards, including but not limited to 4G, 5G, and 6G networks.

[0019] Summary of the Invention

[0020] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0021] According to an aspect of the present invention, the invention relates to a method and system for determining transmission status of on-demand system information in network energy saving cells to reduce redundant uplink signaling and access latency. The method includes determining, by a user equipment, whether system information is being transmitted by a network energy saving cell before initiating an uplink wakeup signal transmission. Based on the determined transmission status, the user equipment selectively transmits an uplink wakeup signal or directly acquires the system information, thereby minimizing unnecessary uplink signaling and repeated access procedures.

[0022] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method enables indication of system information transmission status through signaling associated with uplink wakeup signal configuration, synchronization signals, or broadcast channel information. The network energy saving cell may provide transmission status information using oneor more parameters conveyed through downlink signaling, allowing multiple user equipments to identify ongoing on-demand system information transmission and avoid redundant uplink requests. This approach reduces control signaling overhead and improves radio resource utilization during system information acquisition.

[0023] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method supports flexible determination of system information transmission status by enabling user equipment to perform monitoring or decoding operations for a predefined duration prior to transmitting an uplink wakeup signal. If the system information is determined to be available during the monitoring duration, the user equipment acquires the system information without initiating an uplink request. If the system information is not available, the user equipment transmits the uplink wakeup signal to trigger on-demand transmission, thereby enabling adaptive and efficient access behavior.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the method facilitates reduced dependency on always-on anchor cells by enabling a network energy saving cell to provide uplink wakeup signal configuration and transmission status information directly to user equipment. This allows network energy saving cells to operate in a standalone manner without requiring continuous system information broadcasting by an anchor cell, thereby improving deployment flexibility, reducing backhaul signaling overhead, and enhancing overall network energy efficiency.

[0025] According to another aspect of the present invention, the method supports multiple operating modes for a network energy saving cell, including an energy-saving mode in which system information is transmitted on-demand and a normal mode in which system information is periodically broadcast. The transmission status information enables user equipment to adapt its access procedure according to the operating mode of the network energy saving cell, thereby improving access reliability and reducing latency across diverse network conditions.The foregoing summary outlines key aspects of the invention, which provides an efficient mechanism for on-demand system information acquisition in network energy saving cells. By enabling determination of system information transmission status, reducing redundant uplink signaling, and supporting flexible network architectures including standalone deployment of network energy saving cells, the invention improves network efficiency, reduces access latency, and enhances energy savings in wireless communication systems, including but not limited to 4G, 5G, and 6G networks.

[0026] Brief description of the drawings

[0027] The figures described below depict various aspects of the system and methods disclosed herein. It should be understood that each figure depicts an embodiment of a particular aspect of the disclosed system and methods, and that each of the figures is intended to accord with a possible embodiment thereof. Further, wherever possible, the following description refers to the reference numerals included in the following figures, in which features depicted in multiple figures are designated with consistent reference numerals.

[0028] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system architecture (100) including one or more user equipments and a network energy saving cell, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates an example block diagram (200) of a system for implementing transmission status determination and system information delivery, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram (300) depicting on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) transmission status indication using uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow chart (400) depicting determination of OD-SIB1 transmission status by a user equipment based on UL-WUSconfiguration information, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram (500) depicting determination of OD-SIB1 transmission status using one or more parameters conveyed in a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) and / or a master information block (MIB), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates an example flow diagram (600) depicting acquisition of OD-SIB1 by a user equipment using blind decoding for a predefined duration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 7 illustrates an example computing system (700) that may be used to implement one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates an example computer system (800) in which or with which one or more embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and may have not been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figure may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that like reference numbers are used to depict the same or similar elements, features, and structures.

[0038] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0039] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of exemplary embodiments of the invention as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary.

[0040] Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the embodiments described hereincan be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions are omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0041] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings but are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the invention as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0042] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes reference to one or more of such surfaces.

[0043] By the term “substantially” it is meant that the recited characteristic, parameter, or value need not be achieved exactly, but that deviations or variations, including for example, tolerances, measurement error, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors known to those of skill in the art, may occur in amounts that do not preclude the effect the characteristic is intended to provide.

[0044] Figures discussed below, and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present disclosure in this patent document are by way of illustration only and should not be construed in any way that would limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented in any suitably arranged system. The terms used to describe various embodiments are exemplary. It should be understood that these are provided to merely aid the understanding of the description, and that their use and definitions, in no way limit the scope of the invention. Terms first, second, and the like are used to differentiate between objects having the same terminology and are in no way intended to represent a chronological order, unless whereexplicitly stated otherwise. A set is defined as a non-empty set including at least one element.

[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system architecture (100) for system information delivery in a wireless communication network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] As illustrated in FIG. 1 , the system architecture (100) includes a base station (105) communicatively coupled to one or more user equipments (UEs) (120-1, 120-2, ..., 120-N) through a network (115). The base station (105) may operate as a serving cell, an anchor cell, or a network energy saving (NES) cell depending on network configuration and operational mode. The base station (105) includes a system (110) configured to manage signaling, system information transmission, and uplink wake-up procedures.

[0047] In an embodiment, the one or more UEs (120-1, 120-2, ..., 120-N) may include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, smartphones, laptops, tablet computers, desktop computers, virtual reality devices, augmented reality devices, or other wireless communication devices. The UEs may include one or more input and output components such as displays, touch interfaces, cameras, microphones, keyboards, or other peripheral devices.

[0048] In an embodiment, the network (115) may include one or more communication networks, such as wireless networks, cellular networks, packet-switched networks, core networks, backhaul networks, or combinations thereof, and may facilitate exchange of control signaling and user data between the base station (105) and the UEs (120).

[0049] In some embodiments, when the base station (105) operates as a network energy saving cell, the system (110) may support on-demand transmission of system information, such as system information block 1 (SIB1). A first UE (e.g., UE 120-1) may transmit an uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) to request the system information based on radio measurements associated with the NES cell. Configuration information required for transmitting the UL-WUS may be obtained from a serving or anchor cell.In such embodiments, the system (110) may indicate a transmission status of the system information to one or more UEs using signaling conveyed through uplink wake-up signal configuration, synchronization signals, or repurposed broadcast parameters. Based on the indicated transmission status, additional UEs (e.g., UE 120-2 to UE 120-N) may determine whether the system information is already being transmitted and may avoid transmitting redundant uplink wake-up signals.

[0050] In an alternative embodiment, the system architecture of FIG. 1 also supports a user equipment-based access procedure in which a UE determines whether system information or a subset of system information is broadcast periodically or transmitted on demand by decoding synchronization signals and associated broadcast information. When the system information is broadcast periodically, the UE may directly decode the system information. When the system information is transmitted on demand, the UE may transmit an uplink wake-up signal to request the system information and subsequently receive the system information from the base station.

[0051] In some embodiments, the base station (105) may dynamically transition between operating as an anchor cell and operating as a network energy saving cell. During such transitions, the system (110) may provide updated configuration information, system information broadcast status indicators, or timing information to the UEs. Legacy user equipments that assume periodic system information transmission may be handed over to other cells prior to transition into network energy saving operation.

[0052] FIG. 2 illustrates an example block diagram (200) of a system (110) for supporting system information delivery and uplink wake-up signaling in a wireless communication network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Referring to FIG. 2, the system (110) comprises one or more processor(s) (205) configured to execute instructions for performing one or more operations described herein. The processor(s) (205) may include, butare not limited to, microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitry, or other processing devices capable of executing computer-readable instructions.

[0054] The system (110) further comprises a memory (210) operatively coupled to the processor(s) (205). The memory (210) may store computer-readable instructions, configuration parameters, system information, signaling state information, and other data required for implementing various system information access mechanisms. The memory (210) may include non-transitory storage media such as random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or other volatile or nonvolatile memory technologies.

[0055] In an embodiment, the system (110) includes one or more interface(s) (215) configured to enable communication between the system (110) and external entities, including user equipments, base stations, serving cells, anchor cells, and network elements. The interface(s) (215) may support wired and / or wireless communication protocols and may facilitate transmission and reception of control signaling, system information, and uplink wake-up signals.

[0056] The system (110) further includes a processing engine (220) operatively coupled to the processor(s) (205), the memory (210), and the interface(s) (215). The processing engine (220) may be implemented using hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof, and may be configured to control system information delivery, uplink wake-up signal coordination, signaling status determination, and access control operations as described herein.

[0057] In an embodiment, the system (110) may further include a database (225) configured to store operational data, including uplink wake-up signal configuration information, system information transmission status, broadcast status indicators, timing information, and other parameters used by the processing engine (220) for coordinating communication between the system (110) and one or more user equipments.In some embodiments, the system (110) illustrated in FIG. 2 may be configured to support transmission status determination mechanisms that enable multiple user equipments to determine ongoing system information transmission and avoid redundant uplink wake-up signaling. In some embodiments, the system (110) may alternatively or additionally support user equipment-centric access procedures based on system information broadcast status, including operation in normal broadcast mode or network energy saving mode.

[0058] Such system information access mechanisms may be implemented independently or in combination, depending on deployment requirements, network configuration, and operational mode of the base station.

[0059] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram (300) depicting transmission status indication of on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) using uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 3, a first user equipment, UE1 (310), establishes a connection with a serving or anchor cell, referred to as Cell-A (315). Through the established connection, UE1 receives configuration information related to uplink wake-up signaling from Cell-A. The UL-WUS configuration may include information indicative of whether system information block 1 (SIB1) is broadcast periodically by a network energy saving (NES) cell (320) or transmitted on demand.

[0061] Based on the UL-WUS configuration received from Cell-A, UE1 determines that SIB1 is not broadcast by the NES cell. In response to this determination, UE1 transmits an uplink wake-up signal to the NES cell to request on-demand transmission of SIB1. Upon receiving the uplink wakeup signal from UE1, the NES cell initiates transmission of SIB1 for a predefined transmission duration (T1).

[0062] In an embodiment, while transmitting SIB1 in response to the request from UE1, the NES cell updates transmission status information associated with SIB1 and communicates updated UL-WUS configuration information toCell-A via a backhaul interface. The updated UL-WUS configuration indicates that SIB1 transmission is active during the predefined duration.

[0063] Subsequently, a second user equipment, UE2 (305), establishes a connection with Cell-A. UE2 receives the updated UL-WUS configuration from Cell-A, which includes information indicating the active transmission status of SIB1 by the NES cell. Based on the indicated transmission status, UE2 determines that SIB1 is currently being transmitted by the NES cell and acquires SIB1 directly from the NES cell without transmitting an uplink wake-up signal. The flow illustrated in FIG. 3 enables multiple user equipments to obtain on-demand system information efficiently by sharing transmission status information via UL-WUS configuration, thereby avoiding redundant uplink wake-up signaling and reducing signaling overhead in network energy saving deployments.

[0064] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow chart (400) for determining transmission status of on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) using uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] As illustrated in FIG. 4, a user equipment (UE) establishes a connection with a serving or anchor cell, referred to as Cell-A (step 405). Upon establishing the connection, the UE receives UL-WUS configuration information associated with one or more network energy saving (NES) cells from Cell-A (step 410). The UL-WUS configuration may include parameters for identifying candidate NES cells and information related to system information access.

[0066] The UE then identifies an NES cell having a better reference signal received power (RSRP) relative to Cell-A based on synchronization signal block (SSB) measurements and the received UL-WUS configuration (step 415).

[0067] Thereafter, the UE determines a broadcast status of system information block 1 (SIB1) associated with the identified NES cell using the UL-WUS configuration (step 420). The broadcast status indicates whetherSIB1 is being broadcast periodically by the NES cell or is available only through on-demand transmission.

[0068] When the determination indicates that SIB1 is not broadcast by the NES cell, the UE transmits an uplink wake-up signal to the NES cell to request on-demand transmission of SIB1 (step 425). In response to receiving the uplink wake-up signal, the NES cell transmits a random access response (RAR) to the UE (step 430), followed by transmission of SIB1 to the UE for a predefined duration (step 435).

[0069] Alternatively, when the determination indicates that SIB1 is broadcast or otherwise available based on the UL-WUS configuration, the UE decodes SIB1 directly from the NES cell without transmitting the uplink wake-up signal (step 440). The flow illustrated in FIG. 4 enables a user equipment to determine the transmission status of system information and to selectively initiate uplink wake-up signaling only when required, thereby reducing unnecessary uplink signaling and improving system efficiency in network energy saving deployments.

[0070] FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram (500) depicting determination of on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) transmission status using one or more repurposed parameters conveyed in a physical broadcast channel (PBCH) and / or a master information block (MIB), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] As illustrated in FIG. 5, a first user equipment, UE1 (510), establishes a connection with a serving or anchor cell, referred to as Cell-A (515). UE1 then monitors broadcast signaling transmitted by a network energy saving (NES) cell (520), including synchronization signal blocks and associated PBCH / MIB information.

[0072] Based on the received PBCH / MIB information, UE1 determines a transmission status of OD-SIB1 using one or more repurposed parameters conveyed in the PBCH and / or MIB of the NES cell. The repurposed parameters may include one or more existing parameters defined inaccordance with a wireless communication standard and may be interpreted to indicate whether OD-SIB1 is currently being transmitted by the NES cell.

[0073] When the determination indicates that OD-SIB1 is not being transmitted by the NES cell, UE1 transmits an uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) to the NES cell to request on-demand transmission of OD-SIB1. In response to receiving the UL-WUS, the NES cell transmits a random access response (RAR) to UE1 and initiates transmission of OD-SIB1 for a predefined transmission duration.

[0074] Subsequently, a second user equipment, UE2 (505), establishes a connection with Cell-A. UE2 similarly monitors the PBCH / MIB transmitted by the NES cell and determines the transmission status of OD-SIB1 using the repurposed parameters conveyed therein. Based on the determination that OD-SIB1 is currently being transmitted by the NES cell, UE2 acquires OD-SIB1 directly from the NES cell without transmitting an uplink wake-up signal. The flow illustrated in FIG. 5 enables multiple user equipments to determine OD-SIB1 transmission status by decoding repurposed PBCH / MIB parameters and to selectively initiate uplink wake-up signaling only when OD-SIB1 is not already being transmitted, thereby reducing redundant uplink signaling and improving signaling efficiency in network energy saving deployments.

[0075] FIG. 6 illustrates an example flow diagram (600) depicting acquisition of on-demand system information block 1 (OD-SIB1) by blind decoding, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] As illustrated in FIG. 6, a first user equipment, UE1 (610), establishes a connection with a serving or anchor cell, referred to as Cell-A (615). After establishing the connection, UE1 performs blind decoding of OD-SIB1 transmitted by a network energy saving (NES) cell (620) for a predefined duration, without initially transmitting an uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS). If UE1 is unable to successfully decode OD-SIB1 during the predefined duration, UE1 transmits a UL-WUS to the NES cell to request on-demand transmission of OD-SIB1. In response to receiving the UL-WUS, the NEScell transmits a random access response (RAR) and initiates transmission of OD-SIB1 to UE1 for a predefined transmission duration.

[0077] Subsequently, a second user equipment, UE2 (605), establishes a connection with Cell-A. UE2 receives UL-WUS configuration information from Cell-A, which may include parameters indicative of OD-SIB1 transmission timing and duration. Based on the received configuration, UE2 performs blind decoding of OD-SIB1 transmitted by the NES cell during the ongoing transmission duration.

[0078] As a result, UE2 acquires OD-SIB1 from the NES cell without transmitting an uplink wake-up signal. Accordingly, the flow illustrated in FIG. 6 enables multiple user equipments to acquire on-demand system information by performing blind decoding during an active transmission window, thereby reducing redundant uplink wake-up signaling and improving signaling efficiency in network energy saving deployments.

[0079] FIG. 7 illustrates an example flowchart (700) depicting a method for system information (SI) acquisition by a user equipment (UE) in a wireless communication system operating with a standalone network energy saving (NES) cell, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the method begins with the UE decoding one or more synchronization signals transmitted by a cell (step 705). Decoding the synchronization signals enables the UE to achieve time and frequency synchronization with the cell and to obtain basic cell configuration parameters.

[0081] Thereafter, the UE extracts one or more parameters related to a broadcast status of system information or a subset of system information associated with the cell (step 710). The extracted parameters may be conveyed through the synchronization signals and / or associated broadcast signaling.

[0082] The UE then evaluates the broadcast status of the system information or the subset of system information (step 715). Based on this evaluation, the method proceeds along one of two paths depending onwhether the system information is broadcast periodically or transmitted on demand.

[0083] When the system information is determined to not be broadcast, indicating operation in a network energy saving mode, the UE obtains a subset of or complete uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration information from the cell (step 720). The UL-WUS configuration information may be conveyed through synchronization signals and / or through downlink signaling such as a physical downlink shared channel (PDSCH).

[0084] After obtaining the UL-WUS configuration information, the UE transmits an uplink wake-up signal to the base station to request transmission of the system information or the subset of system information (step 725). In response, the UE receives an acknowledgement from the base station (step 730). The acknowledgement may include scheduling information or parameters required for decoding subsequent transmissions.

[0085] Using the acknowledgement and / or the UL-WUS configuration information, the UE decodes downlink control information transmitted on a physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) (step 735). Based on the decoded PDCCH information, the UE subsequently decodes a physical downlink shared channel carrying the requested system information or the subset of system information (step 740).

[0086] Alternatively, when the system information is determined to be broadcast periodically, indicating operation in a normal mode, the UE retrieves control resource set (CORESET) information from the synchronization signals (step 745). The UE then decodes the PDCCH to obtain time, frequency, and other scheduling parameters associated with the PDSCH carrying the system information or the subset of system information (step 750). Using the decoded scheduling parameters, the UE decodes the PDSCH to acquire the system information. The flow illustrated in FIG. 7 enables a UE to dynamically determine whether system information is broadcast or transmitted on demand and to selectively initiate uplink wake-up signaling only when required. This approach supportsstandalone NES cell operation, reduces unnecessary signaling, and improves energy efficiency and signaling efficiency in wireless communication systems.

[0087] FIG. 8 illustrates an example computer system (800) in which or with which one or more embodiments of the present invention may be implemented.

[0088] As illustrated in FIG. 8, the computer system (800) includes one or more processors (870), a bus (820), a main memory (830), a read-only memory (840), a mass storage device (850), one or more communication ports (860), and an external storage device (810). The components of the computer system (800) may be communicatively coupled to one another through the bus (820).

[0089] In an embodiment, the processor (870) may comprise one or more general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, digital signal processors, microcontrollers, or other processing devices capable of executing computer-readable instructions. The processor (870) may be configured to execute instructions for performing one or more operations described in the present invention, including system information transmission, uplink wake-up signal handling, transmission status determination, or broadcast status-based access procedures.

[0090] The main memory (830) may comprise a volatile memory, such as random-access memory (RAM), for storing information and instructions to be executed by the processor (870). The read-only memory (840) may comprise a non-volatile memory, such as programmable read-only memory (PROM), for storing static information and instructions, including startup or basic input / output system (BIOS) instructions.

[0091] The mass storage device (850) may include one or more non-volatile storage devices for storing information and instructions. Exemplary mass storage devices include, but are not limited to, hard disk drives, solid-state drives, or other current or future storage technologies. The external storage device (810) may provide additional removable or non-removable storageand may be coupled to the computer system (800) through the bus (820) or other interfaces.

[0092] In an embodiment, the communication port(s) (860) may provide communication interfaces between the computer system (800) and external devices or networks. The communication port(s) (860) may include wired or wireless interfaces, such as Ethernet interfaces, serial interfaces, parallel interfaces, USB interfaces, fiber-optic interfaces, or other communication interfaces suitable for connecting the computer system (800) to one or more networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or cellular networks.

[0093] The bus (820) may include one or more communication buses or interconnects for transferring data between the processor (870), the memory components, the storage devices, and the communication port(s). The bus (820) may include, for example, a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) bus, a PCI-Express bus, a system bus, or other suitable bus architectures.

[0094] In some embodiments, the computer system (800) may further include operator or administrative interfaces, such as a display, a keyboard, or a cursor control device, coupled to the bus (820) to support direct user interaction. Such interfaces may also be provided remotely through network connections via the communication port(s) (860).

[0095] The components illustrated in FIG. 8 are provided by way of example only, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the computer system (800) may include additional components, fewer components, or different combinations of components without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0096] A number of implementations have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A method for determining transmission status of system information in a wireless communication cell, the method comprising:determining, by a user equipment (UE), a transmission status of system information or a subset of system information associated with the cell;performing, in response to the determined transmission status, one of:transmitting an uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) to the cell to request transmission of the system information, oracquiring the system information without transmitting the UL- WUS; andreceiving the system information from the cell when the transmission status indicates availability of the system information.

2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising determining the transmission status based on UL-WUS configuration information received from a serving cell or from the cell.

3. The method as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising determining the transmission status based on one or more parameters conveyed through synchronization signals, a master information block, or a physical broadcast channel transmitted by the cell.

4. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising monitoring for the system information for a predefined duration prior to transmitting the UL-WUS.

5. The method as claimed in claim 4, further comprising transmitting the UL-WUS only when the system information is not detected during the predefined duration.

6. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the system information comprises system information block 1 transmitted on-demand.

7. A method performed by a base station, the method comprising: indicating a broadcast status of system information or a subset of system information, including through signaling associated with a synchronization signal block;transmitting uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration information while operating in an energy-saving mode;receiving a trigger from a user equipment (UE) based on the UL-WUS configuration information;transmitting an acknowledgement to the UE in response to the trigger; andtransmitting the system information or the subset of system information to the UE in response to the trigger.

8. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising transmitting the UL-WUS configuration information through synchronization signal blocks, broadcast channels, or downlink shared channels.

9. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising including in the UL-WUS configuration information at least one of time-domain location information, frequency-domain location information, transmit power information, acknowledgement window information, beam mapping information, timing advance information, subcarrier spacing, or synchronization signal periodicity.

10. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising receiving the trigger as a contention-based random access signal or a contention-free random access signal transmitted using a predefined preamble.

11. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising operating the base station in a normal mode in which the system information or the subset of system information is transmitted periodically.

12. The method as claimed in claim 11, further comprising switching between the energy-saving mode and the normal mode based on a utilization level of on-demand system information requests.

13. The method as claimed in claim 1, further comprising reducing redundant uplink signaling when multiple UEs attempt to access the cell within a same time interval.

14. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising providing the UL-WUS configuration information independently of an always-on anchor cell.

15. The method as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 7, further comprising applying the method in wireless communication systems compliant with at least one of 4G, 5G, or 6G standards.

16. A wireless communication cell comprising:a transmitter;a receiver; anda controller operatively coupled to the transmitter and the receiver, wherein the controller is configured to:indicate a transmission status of system information or a subset of system information;provide uplink wake-up signal (UL-WUS) configuration information to a user equipment (UE);receive a trigger from the UE based on the UL-WUS configuration information; andtransmit the system information to the UE based on the transmission status and the trigger.

17. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the transmitter is configured to convey the transmission status using synchronization signals or broadcast channel signaling, or UL-WUS configuration signaling.

18. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to enable multiple UEs to acquire the system information without transmitting additional UL-WUS signals when the transmission status indicates availability.

19. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the wireless communication cell is operable in an energy-saving mode and a normal mode.

20. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to switch between the energy-saving mode and the normal mode based on traffic demand or system information request density.

21. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to transmit the UL-WUS configuration information through synchronization signal blocks, a physical broadcast channel, or a physical downlink shared channel.

22. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to receive the trigger as a contention-based or contention-free random access signal.

23. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the controller is configured to transmit an acknowledgement comprising a complete random access response or a subset of random access response parameters.

24. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the wireless communication cell operates independently of an anchor cell for providing system information and UL-WUS configuration information.

25. The wireless communication cell as claimed in claim 16, wherein the controller comprises at least one of a processor, firmware, software, or a combination thereof.

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