Establishing and maintaining network energy saving (NES) using cell mapping information

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus is configured to monitor one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell. The apparatus is also configured to determine, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode. In response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to determine, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell.

Description

ESTABLISHING AND MAINTAINING NETWORK ENERGY SAVING (NES) USING CELL MAPPING INFORMATIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to Indian Provisional Application 202511009970, filed on February 6, 2025, and to Indian Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 202511009970, filed on November 19, 2025, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to establishing and maintaining Network Energy Saving (NES) using cell mapping information.BACKGROUND

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

[0004] Network Energy Saving (NES) features are implemented in wireless communication networks to optimize power consumption while maintaining network performance. In cellular networks, particularly in Fifth Generation (5G) New Radio (NR) networks, a base station (gNodeB) may operate in various modes to achieve energy efficiency, for instance ideal / inactive mode. The gNodeB broadcasts System Information Block Type 1 (SIB1) messages containing essentialsystem information, including cell identity, system bandwidth, and parameters required for initial network access.

[0005] The Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Release 19 Network Energy Saving (NES) work item (RP-2114065) introduced support for on-demand SIB 1 transmission mechanisms for User Equipment (UE) operating in idle / inactive mode. The key aspects of such a study include signaling and procedures to enable on-demand SIB1 transmission for UEs in idle / inactive mode. For instance, triggering method by uplink wake-up-signal using an existing signal / channel. The procedure further includes utilizing an uplink wake-up-signal mechanism without modifying the existing Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) structure, and an information exchange between gNBs at least for the configuration of the wake-up signal, if necessary. The study also covers a checkpoint for normative work to assess the progress and the readiness for further standardization.

[0006] Furthermore, Radio Access Network Working Group 1 (RANI) agreements from meeting #117 (May 2024) established three cases for implementation of on-demand SIB1 transmission. A first case involves implementation of UE transmission of uplink wake-up-signal (UL WUS) to NES cell, obtaining UL WUS configuration from NES cell, and reception of on-demand SIB1 from NES cell. A second case involves implementing UE transmission of UL WUS to NES cell, obtaining UL WUS configuration from an anchor cell (i.e., Cell A), and reception of on-demand SIB1 from NES cell. A third case involves implementing UE transmission of UL WUS to serving cell, obtaining UL WUS configuration from the Cell A, and reception of on-demand SIB1 from the serving cell.

[0007] The Radio Access Network plenary meeting #106 agreements (RP -243297) established provisions for Cell A to transition into NES Cell. The Cell A transitioning to NES Cell can provide UL WUS configuration information prior to becoming NES Cell.SUMMARY

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the disclosure. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the disclosure nor is it intended for determining the scope of the disclosure.

[0009] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus is configured to monitor one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell. The apparatus is also configured to determine whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode. The determination whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between the default mode and the NES mode is made based on the one or more network characteristics. In response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to determine at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell. The determination of the at least one anchor cell is made based on based on the cell mapping information. The cell mapping information includes a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, andUplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is provided. The method includes monitoring one or more network characteristics associated with at least one associated cell. The method further includes determining whether the at least one associated cell requires a transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode based on the one or more network characteristics. In response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the method includes determining at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell. The determination of the at least one anchor cell is made based on cell mapping information. The cell mapping information includes a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided. The computer-readable medium stores instructions that are executed by one or more processors. The instructions cause the one or more processors to monitor one or more network characteristics associated with at least one associated cell. The instructions further cause the one or more processors to determine whether the at least one associated cell requires a transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode based on the one or more network characteristics. In response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the instructions cause the one or moreprocessors to determine at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell. The determination of the at least one anchor cell is made based on cell mapping information. The cell mapping information includes a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

[0012] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail in the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Features, aspects, and advantages of embodiments of the disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and wherein:FIG. 1 illustrates an on-demand System Information Block (SIB)-l mechanism as discussed by Radio Access Network- 1 (RANI), according to the state of art;FIG. 2 illustrates an example scenario for Network Energy Saving (NES) cells and an anchor cell topography, according to the state of art;FIG. 3 illustrates a framework for establishing and maintaining NES Neighbour Relationship Table (NRT), according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method for enabling NES mode using cell mapping information, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method of generating the cell mapping information, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method for encoding Uplink Wake Up Signal (UL WUS) configuration for enabling NES mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart of a method performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein;FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of a method for configuring the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein; andFIG. 11 illustrates a diagram of example components of an apparatus, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] The following detailed description of example embodiments refers to the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure provides illustrations and descriptions, but is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the implementations to the precise form disclosed. Modifications and variations are possible in light of the present disclosure or may be acquired from practice of the implementations. Further, one or more features or components of one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with another embodiment (or one or more features of another embodiment). Additionally, the flowchart and description of operations provided below relate to at least one of the embodiments in the present disclosure. It should be noted that it is possible to make other embodiments that do not exactly match the flowchart and 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).

[0015] 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 should not limit their implementations. Thus, the operation and behavior of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software code. It is understood that software and hardware may be designed to implement the systems and / or methods based on the description herein.

[0016] Even though particular combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, the particular combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure ofimplementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in ways not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification. Even if a dependent claim directly depends on only one claim, the present disclosure may indicate that the dependent claim is dependent on other claims in the claim set.

[0017] No element, act, or instruction used herein should be construed as critical or essential unless explicitly described as such. Also, as used herein, the articles “a” and “an” (in other words, nouns not mentioned in the plural) are intended to include one or more items, and may be used interchangeably with “one or more.” Also, as used herein, the terms “has,” “have,” “having,” “include,” “including,” or the like are intended to be open-ended terms. Further, the phrase “based on” is intended to mean “based, at least in part, on” unless explicitly stated otherwise. Furthermore, expressions such as “at least one of [A] and [B],” “[A] and / or [B],” or “at least one of [A] or [B]” are to be understood as including only A, only B, or both A and B.

[0018] 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.

[0019] In the present disclosure, specific tasks may be performed using AI / ML (Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning) models. An AI / ML model is a model generated using one or more Al technologies, one or more ML algorithm or both, and generates output data based on input data. This output data is used to perform tasks. Tasks performed using AI / ML models include those generally referred to as intellectual tasks, such as classification, prediction, natural language processing, etc.

[0020] Although Al and ML are explained separately, ML is a technology included in Al. In ML, instead of being explicitly programmed for a specific task, systems can improve their performance over time by identifying patterns and making inferences from training data. Typically, the generation of ML models includes data collection, model training, and model inference. Data collection involves gathering and preprocessing data to be used for training and inference. Model training involves developing and validating models using the collected data. Model inference involves applying the trained models to new data to generate new output data and perform tasks.

[0021] Machine learning includes various types of learning methods such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, reinforcement learning, semi-supervised learning, self-supervised learning, transductive learning, transfer learning, meta learning, and the like. These types of learning methods can be appropriately selected according to the embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, the application of types not mentioned in this description is not precluded. Additionally, the structure of ML models may vary depending on the embodiments and learning methods, and is not limited to the methods disclosed. Furthermore, ML includes deep learning, which uses models that include neural networks. Deep learning models may include, for example, deep neural networks (DNNs), convolutional neural networks (CNNs), etc.

[0022] It should be noted that the AI / ML models presented hereinafter are examples and are not limited to the illustrated AI / ML models. They can be modified or altered by using different Al or ML algorithms. The configuration of the neural network is not limited to the configuration disclosed in the present disclosure and can be modified.

[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an on-demand System Information Block (SIB)-l mechanism 100 as discussed by Radio Access Network- 1 (RANI), according to the state of art.

[0024] In the context of the Release- 19 (Rel-19) Network Energy Saving (NES) work item (RP-2114065) on the support of on-demand SIB1 for User Equipment (UEs) in an idle / inactive mode, one or more following assumptions were made during the RAN 1#116 meeting for the purpose of discussion:a. Cell A: A cell that periodically transmits at least its own SIB1 information. This cell represents a traditional cell that continuously broadcasts the SIB1 message, as done in previous cellular network generations.b. NES cell: A cell that may transmit the SIB1 information in response to an Uplink Wake-Up Signal (UL WUS) received from a User Equipment (UE). The NES cell represents a 5G New Radio (NR) cell that supports the on-demand SIB1 transmission mechanism, where the SIB 1 is provided to the UE upon request, rather than being continuously broadcast.

[0025] The above assumptions provide a clear distinction between a behavior of a traditional cell (i.e., the Cell A, also referred to as an anchor cell) and an on-demand SIB1 transmission mechanism (i.e., the NES Cell) being studied as part of the Rel-19 NES work item. This allows the RANI working group to focus the technical discussions and evaluations on one or more specific procedures and signaling required to enable the on-demand SIB1 approach for UEs in the idle / inactive mode while considering the interactions with the existing continuous SIB1 broadcast mechanisms.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates an example scenario for NES cells and an anchor cell topography 200, according to the state of art. In the illustrated scenario, the cell A is the anchor cell for a UE. The UE is attached to one of the NES cells (for example, an NES cell 1), which are neighboring cellsof an anchor cell (for example, Cell A). In general, the anchor cell serves as a reference point for the UE’s mobility management. When the UE enters a new coverage area or establishes an initial connection, the cell A becomes the anchor cell. The anchor cell is responsible for maintaining the continuity of the UE’s active sessions and enabling efficient location tracking and paging procedures as the UE moves within the network.

[0027] The NES cells (for example, the NES Cell 1 and NES cell 2) are neighboring cells of the anchor cell, which are identified and monitored by the UE. The NES cells, represented by two cells in the illustrated scenario, provide the UE with additional information about their signal strength, configuration, and other relevant parameters. This additional information allows the UE to manage mobility and prepare for potential handover procedures, reducing a likelihood of service disruptions.

[0028] In the aforementioned topography 200, a cell can be an NES cell or Cell A and can transition from one to another. For a cell to go into NES mode, the cell needs support of partially / fully overlapping cell to support the transmission of its Uplink WakeUp Signal (UL WUS) Configuration. This partially / fully overlapping cell, if transmitting periodic SIB1 in the default mode, is Cell A. The cell which goes into NES mode (supporting OD-SIB1 transmission) is the NES Cell. One NES cell can have overlap with multiple Cell As. One Cell A can have overlap with multiple NES Cells. Cell A will have overlapping coverage with one or more other Cell As. NES cells can have overlapping coverage with other one of more NES cells.

[0029] However, there are some fundamental problems / challenges that need to be addressed for proper transition of a Cell A to a NES cell, or the NES cell to the Cell A. So far, it has not been discussed in any of the working groups on how the cells know whether any of their neighbouringcells with overlapping coverage are the Cell A or NES cells. When a cell decides to go into the NES mode, the cell is supposed to transmit UL WUS Configuration information to the Cell A with which it has overlapping coverage. And then the Cell A will broadcast this information in its SLB to the UEs camped on it. Therefore, the cells need to know who their neighbours are, what their current NES state is, and whether the cells themselves are in default mode (periodic SIB1 transmission) or NES mode (OD-SIB1 transmission). Besides this, it is important for the cells to track what their relationship is with the overlapping cells, i.e., a given neighbor cell, a NES cell for which it is acting as Cell A, or when it is a NES cell and a given neighbour cell is acting as Cell A, or none of these.

[0030] In the present disclosure, solutions are proposed to address the aforementioned challenges / issues.

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates a framework 300 for establishing and maintaining NES Neighbour Relationship Table (NRT), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one or more embodiments, the NRT may be referred as cell mapping information. Further, the cell mapping information may be stored in any suitable format.

[0032] The framework 300 may include a first gNodeB (gNB 1) 302 and a second gNodeB (gNB2) 304. The first gNodeB (gNBl) 302 may include a first distributed unit (DU11) and a second distributed unit (DU12). The second gNodeB (gNB2) 304 may include a third distributed unit (DU21). The first distributed unit (DU11), the second distributed unit (DU12), and the third distributed unit (DU21) may serve a plurality of cells. For instance, the first distributed unit (DUH) may serve a first cell (Cell 101) and a second cell (Cell 102). The second distributed unit (DU12)may serve a third cell (Cell 103). The third distributed unit (DU21) may serve a fourth cell (Cell 201), a fifth cell (Cell 202), and a sixth cell (Cell 203).

[0033] A method for establishing and maintaining the NES NRT may involve the following steps:1. Based on the mobility Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and UE measurement reports, a cell creates a list of neighboring cells with which it has overlapping coverage. The list is continuously monitored and updated with certain hysteresis in place to avoid ping-pong scenarios.2. Once overlapping cells are identified, it is assumed all of the cells are in default mode (with periodic SIB l transmission).3. When a cell decides to transition to NES mode, and the cell seeks support of neighbour cells, then a source gNB-CU sends a request to a target gNB-CU. This confirms the entry in the list of two overlapping cells.4. Whenever a cell changes its mode from default mode (with periodic SIB 1 transmission) to NES mode (with OD-SIB1 transmission) or vice-versa, then the source gNB-CU notifies all the neighboring gNB-CUs of overlapping cells of the change in the NES mode.5. All the cells maintain a list of overlapping cells and their current NES mode, along with UL WUS Configuration details, if the neighboring cell is currently in NES mode.6. The cell also maintains its current relationship status with the overlapping cell.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the gNBl 302 may correspond to the gNB-Central Unitl (gNB-CUl), and the gNB2304 may correspond to the gNB-CU2.

[0035] The method for establishing and maintaining the NES NR.T may involve creating a list of overlapping cells. The cell may create a list of neighboring cells having overlapping coveragebased on mobility Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and UE measurement reports. The list is continuously monitored and updated with certain hysteresis in place to avoid ping-pong scenarios. Based on Handover (HO) KPIs and UE measurements, a gNodeB Central Unit (gNB-CU) may create a map of overlapping cells (overlapping cell mapping table) for its own cells.

[0036] For instance, the first gNodeB (gNBl) 302 may create and maintain an overlapping cell mapping table as shown in table 1.Table 1 : Overlapping cell mapping table created by gNB 1

[0037] The second gNodeB (gNB2) 304 may create and maintain a corresponding overlapping cell list similar to the gNBl 302.

[0038] The method for establishing and maintaining NES NR.T may further involve the addition of UL WUS Configuration details to the overlapping cell list. At the start, all the overlapping cellsare assumed to be in default mode, which is the periodic SIB1 transmission mode. When a target cell receives a request for OD-SIB1 transmission from a source cell, then the target gNB-CU updates the table 1 with the relevant UL WUS Configuration for the source cell. Table 2 illustrates an example update of overlapping cell mapping table.Table 2 Example update of Overlapping cell mapping table

[0039] The method for establishing and maintaining NES NRT may further involve addition of NES mode operational details. If the target cell decides to support the NES mode of the source cell, then target cell sends an acknowledgement (ACK) to the source cell. Once the source cell transitions to the NES mode, it sends a notification to the target cell. Based on this, the target gNB-CU updates the NES mode entry against the listing of the source cell, as depicted in table 3. Therequest message transmission may confirm overlapping cell table entries in source cell and target cell tables.Table 3 Example update of NES mode entry of the source cell

[0040] The method for establishing and maintaining NES NRT may further involve the addition of relationship details defining target cell roles for source cells. Whenever a cell changes its mode from default mode (with periodic SIB1 transmission) to NES mode (with OD-SIB1 transmission) or vice-versa, then the source gNB-CU notifies all the neighboring gNB-CUs of overlapping cells of the change in the NES mode

[0041] Case A: If the target cell decides to support the NES mode of the source cell, and once the source cell sends a notification to inform the target cell that the NES mode is activated, the tableis updated with the relationship information that the target cell is Cell A to the source cell, and its status is supported.

[0042] If the target cell refuses to support the NES mode of the source cell, there are two possibilities:a. The source cell (based on some other target cell’s support) transitions to NES mode.It informs all the overlapping cells of its NES mode. The source cell’s entry in the target cell’s gNB-CU will still be Cell A, but its status will be not supported, and its mode is update to NES mode.b. The source cell does not transition to NES mode due to lack of support. The source cell’s entry in the target cell’s gNB-CU will still be Cell A, but its status will be not supported, and its mode remains default mode.

[0043] In the source cell gNB-CU, the corresponding entry of the target cell will reflect the relationship as Cell A and update the status as supported or not supported.

[0044] In summary, the following are the possible relationship entries and the status entries:a. Source Cell is NES cell and the target Cell is Cell A and the status is supported if the target cell is currently supporting the NES mode of the source cell;b. Source Cell is NES cell to the target Cell which is Cell A and the status is that target cell is currently not supporting the NES mode;c. Source Cell is a Cell A and the target cell is the NES cell, where the status is supported if the source cell is supporting the NES mode of the target cell;d. Source Cell is a Cell A and the target cell is the NES cell, where the status is not supported if the source cell is not supporting the NES mode of the target cell;e. Source Cell is a NES cell, and Target Cell is a NES cell, then the relationship is NULL and the status is Not Applicable;f. Source Cell is a Cell A, and Target Cell is a Cell A, then the relationship is NULL and the status is Not Applicable.

[0045] Case B: When a source cell attempts to deactivate NES mode: There are two conditions under which a cell decides to deactivate the NES mode. One when the trigger conditions for energy saving are no longer valid, then the source cell might decide to deactivate NES mode, and transition to default mode with periodic SIB1 transmission. The second possibility is that when none of the overlapping cells continue to support the NES mode of the source cell, then the source cell might be forced to deactivate the INES mode.

[0046] In either of these cases, when the source cell deactivates the NES mode, it sends a notification to all the overlapping cells of the change in the NES mode. The receiving target nodes will update the table entry for NES mode, current relationship and current status, as indicated in Table 4 below.Table 4 Example update of relationship status of source cell and target cell

[0047] The method for establishing and maintaining NES NRT may further involve additional update mechanisms.

[0048] Whenever a source cell’s UL WUS Configuration changes, it informs all the overlapping cells with this information. This is especially important, if the source cell is in the NES mode. When the target cell receives this information, it updates the database and also updates the UL WUS configuration of the source cell before broadcasting it in its own SIB.

[0049] If the initial table is created at the gNB-CU based on the HO KPIs and UE measurements, the entries in the table might fluctuate based on these reports. However, the gNB-CU can apply a hysteresis to keep the table constant, and not susceptible to transient network behaviour. This is especially important, since a cell in NES mode might not support incoming HOs and the neighbouring cells might not consider it as a valid overlapping cell.

[0050] On the other hand, the table should reflect the neighbours with which it has the highest successful mobility transactions, so that unnecessary signalling is avoided between neighbours which might not have too much of UE movementNetwork cells may maintain overlapping cell lists involving current NES mode status and UL WUS Configuration parameters for neighboring cells operating in NES mode.

[0051] The method for establishing and maintaining NES NRT may further involve optimization mechanisms.

[0052] If a cell consistently gets a failure response from an overlapping cell in response to its request for UL WUS transmission, then the gNB-CU of the source cell may decide not to send further requests to that particular cell.

[0053] The source cell gNB-CU may send the request to transmit UL WUS Configuration to the target cell eNB-CU with an additional field containing the target cell IDs which it wants as a support for its NES activation.

[0054] With the use of AI / ML, an NG RAN node (gNB-CU) may optimize the creation and maintenance of INES NRT (Neighbour relationship table).

[0055] In one or more embodiment, the initial overlapping cell list may be configured by the operator or derived from the inventory database.

[0056] In one or more embodiment, the NES mechanism may be driven from an external platform like RIC, where this entire functionality may be moved out of the RAN nodes.

[0057] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method 400 for enabling NES mode using cell mapping information, in accordance with an embodiment disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 400 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNB / eNodeB(eNB) 302, 304.

[0058] At step 402, the method 400 may include monitoring one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell. The at least one associated cell may correspond to one or more cells supported by the gNB-CU. In one embodiment, the one or more network characteristics may include, but are not limited to, traffic load metrics, cell utilization indicators, signal quality parameters, energy consumption profiles, and signaling activity patterns. Trafficload metrics may include downlink and uplink data volumes, a number of active User Equipment (UEs), and idle-to-active transition rates, which help determine whether continuous broadcasting of System Information Blocks (SIBs) is necessary. Cell utilization indicators may include Physical Resource Block (PRB) usage and scheduling activity, reflecting an overall resource demand on the cell. Signal quality parameters, such as Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), along with neighbour cell measurements, ensure that transitioning to NES mode does not compromise coverage or service quality. Energy consumption profdes may include a current power draw of the cell and historical energy usage patterns. Energy consumption profiles may assist in identifying periods of low activity suitable for energy-saving operations. Signaling activity patterns may include the frequency of STB requests and the reliability of Uplink Wake-Up Signals (WUS), which are critical for enabling On-Demand STB transmission in NES mode. Collectively, the one or more characteristics provide a comprehensive basis for determining whether a cell should transition from a default mode to a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode.

[0059] At step 404, the method 400 may include determining whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a NES mode based on the one or more network characteristics. In one embodiment, determining whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between the default mode and the NES mode may involve analyzing the monitored network characteristics to assess current traffic demand, resource utilization, and signaling patterns. This determination may include evaluating whether the cell exhibits low downlink and uplink traffic volumes, a reduced number of active UEs, and minimal scheduling activity, which collectively indicate underutilization. Additionally, the decision may consider the frequency ofSystem Information Block (SIB) requests and the reliability of UL WUS, ensuring that On-Demand SIB transmission can be supported without service degradation. Signal quality parameters such as RSRP and RSRQ may also be reviewed to confirm that coverage remains adequate when the cell enters NES mode. Furthermore, historical energy consumption trends and time-of-day patterns may be factored in to identify periods where energy-saving measures are most effective. By correlating these indicators, the method determines whether maintaining the default mode is inefficient and whether transitioning to NES mode will optimize energy usage while preserving network performance.

[0060] Next, at step 406, the method 400 may include determining at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell based on cell mapping information. The step 406 may be performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode. The cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB 1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell. In one embodiment, determining at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode may involve analyzing cell mapping information to identify a suitable cell that can maintain essential signaling and coverage when the associated cell transitions to NES mode. This process may include reviewing a plurality of source cells and their corresponding attributes, such as cell identifiers, associated target gNodeB (gNB) details, and System Information Block (SIB1) mode configurations, to ensure compatibility with NES operations. Additionally, Uplink Wake-Up Signal (WUS) configurationsmay be examined to confirm that the anchor cell can reliably handle wake-up signaling for user equipment (UE) when the associated cell is in NES mode. NES mode information and cell relationship data may be considered to maintain seamless inter-cell coordination and avoid service disruptions. Furthermore, the current operational status of candidate cells may be evaluated to ensure that the selected anchor cell has sufficient capacity and coverage to support signaling requirements during the energy-saving state. By leveraging this comprehensive mapping information, the method ensures that the transition to NES mode is efficient, reliable, and does not compromise network performance.

[0061] The disclosed method 400 provides a systematic approach for enabling efficient and reliable transition of cells between the default mode and the NES mode by leveraging real-time network characteristics and comprehensive cell mapping information. By monitoring traffic load, signaling patterns, and energy consumption indicators, the method 400 ensures that NES mode is activated only when beneficial, thereby reducing unnecessary signaling and power usage. Furthermore, determining an appropriate anchor cell based on detailed cell mapping information facilitates seamless inter-cell coordination and prevents service disruptions. This approach addresses the challenge of identifying neighboring cells’ NES states and their relationships, ensuring that UL Wake-Up Signal (WUS) configurations are correctly propagated and broadcasted through anchor cells. Consequently, the solution enhances energy efficiency, maintains coverage integrity, and supports dynamic network optimization without requiring manual intervention or complex signaling exchanges.

[0062] FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a method 500 of generating cell mapping information, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 500 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNBZeNodeB(eNB) 302, 304.

[0063] At step 502, the method 500 may include receiving one or more measurement reports from a User Equipment (UE). The one or more measurement reports may include, but not limited to, one or more Handover (HO) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and one or more UE measurements. In one embodiment, receiving one or more measurement reports from a User Equipment (UE) may involve collecting detailed information that reflects the UE’s radio environment and mobility conditions to support network optimization and decision-making processes. The one or more HO KPIs may include, but not limited to, a handover success rate, a failure rate, and signal quality during mobility events. The one or more HO KPIs may help in assessing the stability and reliability of ongoing connections. Additionally, the one or more UE measurement reports may contain UE-specific measurements such as Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR), and other radio link metrics that indicate a quality of the serving cell and neighboring cells. Such measurements enable the network and / or the gNB to evaluate coverage conditions, detect potential degradation, and determine whether mobility actions like handovers or cell reselection are required.

[0064] At step 504, the method 500 may include generating the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports. In one embodiment, generating the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports may involve processing the received UE measurements and HO KPIs tocreate a comprehensive mapping of the UE’s serving and neighboring cells. This mapping may include identifying the source cell currently serving the UE, along with its associated attributes such as cell ID, gNodeB (gNB) details, and System Information Block (S1B1) mode configuration. Additionally, the mapping may incorporate information about neighboring cells detected in the measurement reports, including their signal strength, quality metrics (e.g., RSRP, RSRQ, SINR), and current NES state, to determine potential anchor cells for NES mode operation. The mapping may also include Uplink Wake-Up Signal (WUS) configuration details, NES mode information, and cell relationship data to establish whether a given cell acts as an anchor or a NES cell in relation to others. By consolidating these parameters into a structured mapping, the method 500 enables accurate decision-making for mobility management, NES transitions, and inter-cell coordination, ensuring optimized energy efficiency and seamless user experience.

[0065] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method 600 for encoding Uplink Wake Up Signal (UL WUS) configuration for enabling NES mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 600 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNB / eNodeB(eNB) 302, 304. The method 600 may be performed in response determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode.

[0066] At step 602, the method 600 may include determining one or more overlapping cells based on the cell mapping information. In one embodiment, determining one or more overlapping cells based on the cell mapping information may involve analyzing the spatial and coverage relationships between the serving cell and its neighboring cells. This determination may include evaluating signal strength measurements such as RSRP and RSRQ from the UE measurement reports, along with cell identifiers and gNodeB associations contained in the mapping information,to establish proximity and coverage overlap. Additionally, the process may consider the NES state of each neighboring cell that indicate whether the cell is operating in default mode or NES mode. The mapping may also include historical handover patterns and mobility KPIs to confirm actual overlap based on UE movement trends. By leveraging these parameters, the method 600 may accurately identifies overlapping cells that require coordination for UL WUS configuration and SIB broadcasting, ensuring seamless NES mode transitions and maintaining service continuity for UEs.

[0067] At step 604, the method 600 may include encode the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more SIBs of the one or more overlapping cells. The at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells. In one embodiment, encoding the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more SIBs of the one or more overlapping cells may involve updating the broadcast information of the anchor cell to include parameters necessary for NES mode operation. This step ensures that when the associated cell transitions to NES mode, the anchor cell can inform UEs camped on it about the UL WUS configuration required to wake up the NES cell for on-demand SIB transmission. The encoding process may include inserting details such as WUS timing, resource allocation, and signaling format into the SIB structure of the overlapping cells, which act as anchor cells. This enables the UEs connected to these anchor cells to initiate wake-up signaling toward the NES cell whenever needed, thereby maintaining service continuity while reducing unnecessary periodic SIB broadcasts. This mechanism enables efficient inter-cell coordination and ensures that NES mode operation does not compromise network performance or user experience.

[0068] FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart of a method 700 performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 700 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNB / eNodeB(eNB) 302, 304.

[0069] At step 702, the method 700 may include configuring the at least one associated cell to transmit default System Information Block (SIB1) information. In one embodiment, configuring the at least one associated cell to transmit default System Information Block (SIB1) information may involve enabling the cell to periodically broadcast essential system parameters required for initial access and mobility management by user equipment (UE). This configuration ensures that the cell operates in its default mode, where SIB1 messages are transmitted at predefined intervals to provide UEs with critical information such as cell identity, tracking area code, scheduling details, and access parameters. The process may include setting transmission periodicity, defining resource allocation for SIB 1 within the downlink frame structure, and updating any relevant parameters to reflect the current network state.

[0070] At step 704, the method 700 may include removing the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell from SIBs of the one or more overlapping cell. The at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells. In one embodiment, removing the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell from the SIBs of the one or more overlapping cells may involve updating the broadcast information of anchor cells to reflect the change in NES mode status of the associated cell. The step 704 may be performed when the associated cell transitions back from NES mode to the default mode, where it resumes periodic SIB 1 transmission and no longer requires wake-up signaling from UEs. The removal process may include deletingUL WUS parameters such as timing, resource allocation, and signaling format from the SIB structure of the overlapping cells that previously acted as anchor cells. By clearing the UL WUS configuration, the network prevents unnecessary signaling and ensures that UEs camped on anchor cells do not attempt to wake up a cell that is already active in default mode. This mechanism maintains accurate and up-to-date system information, reduces signaling overhead, and supports efficient inter-cell coordination during mode transitions.

[0071] FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart of a method 800 performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 800 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNB / eNodeB(eNB) 302, 304.

[0072] At step 802, the method 800 may include transmitting a provision request to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell. The provision request comprising a cell ID and the UL WUS configuration associated with the at least one associated cell. In one embodiment, transmitting a provision request to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell may involve sending a signaling message that contains configuration details necessary for enabling NES mode coordination between the associated cell and its anchor cell. The provision request may include the unique cell ID of the associated cell along with its UL WUS configuration parameters, such as timing, resource allocation, and signaling format. The UL WUS configuration parameters are required for the anchor cell to broadcast in its SIBs. This ensures that UEs camped on the anchor cell are informed about how to wake up the NES cell when needed for on-demand SIB transmission. By transmitting this request, the network establishes a reliable mechanism for intercell coordination, allowing the anchor cell to act as a signaling proxy for the NES cell, therebyreducing unnecessary periodic broadcasts and improving overall energy efficiency without compromising service continuity.

[0073] At step 804, the method 800 may include receiving, from the gNB, an acknowledgement message indicating acceptance of the provision request. In one embodiment, receiving an acknowledgement message from the gNB indicating an acceptance of the provision request may involve confirming that the anchor cell has successfully processed. The acknowledgement message may indicate that the configuration parameters provided for NES mode coordination are successfully applied. This acknowledgement serves as a confirmation that the UL WUS configuration and associated cell ID have been correctly encoded into the SIBs of the anchor cell. This enables UEs camped on the anchor cell to initiate wake-up signaling when required. The acknowledgement may also indicate that the gNB has validated the request for consistency with current network policies and resource availability, ensuring that the NES mode transition can proceed without service disruption. By receiving this confirmation, the method establishes a reliable signaling mechanism between the associated cell and its anchor cell, thereby reducing configuration errors, improving inter-cell coordination, and supporting efficient energy-saving operations.

[0074] At step 806, the method 800 may include configuring the at least one associated cell to stop default SIB1 transmission. In one embodiment, configuring the at least one associated cell to stop default SIB1 transmission may involve transitioning the cell from its standard operating mode, where SIB1 messages are broadcast periodically, to a NES mode that relies on on-demand signaling. This configuration may include disabling the periodic scheduling of SIB1 within the downlink frame structure. The configuration may also include updating the cell’s operationalparameters to ensure that system information is transmitted only when triggered by an UL WUS from a UE. By stopping default SIB1 transmission, the cell reduces unnecessary signaling overhead and conserves energy, particularly during periods of low traffic or inactivity. This step is critical for enabling efficient NES mode operation while maintaining the ability to provide essential system information dynamically when required, thereby optimizing network performance and energy utilization without compromising user experience.

[0075] FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart of a method 900 performed in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 900 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNB / eNodeB(eNB) 302, 304.

[0076] At step 902, the method 900 may include transmitting a notification to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change of status of the at least one associated cell. In one embodiment, transmitting a notification to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change of status of the at least one associated cell may involve sending a signaling message that informs the anchor cell about the updated operational mode of the associated cell. This notification may specify whether the associated cell has transitioned from default mode (periodic SIB1 transmission) to Network Energy Saving (NES) mode (On-Demand SIB1 transmission) or vice versa. The message may include relevant identifiers such as the cell ID and updated configuration parameters to ensure that the anchor cell can adjust its System Information Block (SIB) content accordingly, either by adding or removing Uplink Wake-Up Signal (WUS) configuration details. By transmitting this notification, the method 900 maintains accurate inter-cell coordination, prevents outdated signaling information from being broadcast,and ensures that UEs camped on the anchor cell receive correct instructions for interacting with the NES cell. This step is critical for preserving service continuity and optimizing energy efficiency during dynamic mode transitions.

[0077] At step 904, the method 900 may include configuring the at least one associated cell to perform default SIB1 transmission. In one embodiment, configuring the at least one associated cell to perform default SIB1 transmission may involve reactivating the periodic broadcast of essential system information after the cell exits NES mode. This configuration ensures that the cell resumes its standard operating behavior, where SIB1 messages are transmitted at predefined intervals to provide UE with critical parameters such as cell identity, access restrictions, scheduling details, and mobility information. The process may include enabling the SIB1 scheduling within the downlink frame structure, allocating appropriate resources for transmission, and updating any configuration changes made during NES mode to reflect the current network state. By restoring default SIB1 transmission, the cell guarantees continuous accessibility for UEs, supports initial access and handover procedures, and maintains service reliability, particularly in scenarios where energy-saving measures are no longer required or have been disabled.

[0078] FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart of a method 1000 for configuring the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode, according to an embodiment as disclosed herein. In an embodiment, the method 1000 may be performed by a gNB-CU or the gNB / eNodeB(eNB) 302, 304.

[0079] At step 1002, the method 1000 may include receiving, from a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, a notification indicating a change in support status of NES mode for the at least one associated cell. In one embodiment, receiving a notification from a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change in support status of NES mode for theat least one associated cell may involve processing an update message that reflects the current operational capability of the anchor cell to assist in NES mode coordination. This notification may specify whether the anchor cell can continue to support NES functionality, such as broadcasting Uplink Wake-Up Signal (WUS) configuration in its System Information Blocks (SIBs), or if it has transitioned to a state where such support is no longer available. The message may include details such as the anchor cell’s identifier, updated NES status, and any configuration changes that impact inter-cell signaling. By receiving and interpreting this notification, the method 1000 ensures that the associated cell can dynamically adjust its NES mode behavior, either by selecting an alternative anchor cell or reverting to default SIBl transmission if necessary. Accordingly, the step 1002 is critical for maintaining accurate inter-cell coordination, preventing service disruptions, and optimizing energy-saving operations in a dynamic network environment.

[0080] At step 1004, the method 1000 may include configuring the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode based on the received notification. In one embodiment, configuring the at least one associated cell to disable the Network Energy Saving (NES) mode based on the received notification may involve transitioning the cell from an energy-saving state back to its default operational mode to ensure continuous accessibility and service reliability. This configuration is triggered upon receiving a notification from the anchor cell’s gNodeB (gNB) indicating that NES support is no longer available or that network conditions require reverting to standard behavior. The process may include removing any NES-specific parameters, such as Uplink WUS handling logic, and re-enabling periodic SIBl transmission within the downlink frame structure. Additionally, resource allocation and scheduling configurations may be updated to reflect the default mode requirements. By disabling NES mode promptly, the method 1000 prevents signalinginconsistencies, ensures that UEs can access system information without delay, and maintains overall network stability during dynamic changes in inter-cell coordination.

[0081] The methods 400-1000 as disclosed in FIGS. 4-10, respectively may be performed by a gNB-CU, a gNB-DU, and / or the gNB associated with the cell that either transition or require transition from a default mode to the NES mode, or vice versa.

[0082] FIG. 11 illustrates a diagram of example components of an apparatus / device 1100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The apparatus 1100 may correspond to one of a gNodeB (gNB), a gNB-Central Unit (gNB-CU), and a gNB -Distributed Unit (gNB-DU) associated with either anchor cell or a NES cell. As shown in FIG. 11, the device 1100 includes a processor 1110, a memory 1120, a storage component 1130, an input component 1140, an output component 1150, a communication interface 1160, and a bus 1170. The device 1100 may be associated with the UE 201, and the gNB. In one embodiment, the device 1100 may correspond to the UE. In one embodiment, the device 1100 may correspond to an apparatus implemented at the target gNB. The one or more components of the device 1100 may be configured to implement one or more operations / functionalities of the present disclosure as discussed above.

[0083] The processor 1110, as used herein, means any type of computational circuit that may comprise hardware elements and software elements. The processor 1110 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 1110 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.

[0084] The memory 1120 includes a non-transitory computer readable medium. The memory 1120 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 the processor 1110. The memory 1120 comprises machine-readable instructions which are executable by the processor 1110. These machine-readable instructions when executed by the processor 1110 cause the processor 1110 to perform one or more method steps of an embodiment described above.

[0085] The storage component 1130 stores information and / or software related to the operation and use of the device 1100. For example, the storage component 1130 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.

[0086] The input component 1140 is configured to receive information, such as user input. For example, the input component 1140 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 1140 may include a sensor for sensing information (e.g., a global positioning system (GPS), an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or an actuator).

[0087] The output component 1150 is configured to provide output information from the device 1100. For example, the output component 1150 may be, but not limited to, a display, a speaker, an instruction device to an external device, and / or one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0088] The communication interface 1160 is an interface that provides a communication connection to other devices, such as external devices and internal devices. The connection by thecommunication interface 1160 can be a wired connection, a wireless connection, or a combination of wired and wireless connections, and can be a direct connection or an indirect connection via a communication network that exists between the device 1100 and other devices. In other words, the standard of the communication interface 1160 is not limited.

[0089] The bus 1170 acts as an interconnect between the processor 1110, the memory 1120, the storage component 1130, the input component 1140, the output component 1150, and the communication interface 1160 of the device 1100. The bus 1170 may include a wired interconnection or a wireless interconnection.

[0090] The number and arrangement of components shown in FIG. 11 are provided as an example. In practice, device 1100 may include additional components, fewer components, different components, or differently arranged components than those shown in FIG. 11. Additionally, or alternatively, a set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the device 1100 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of components of the device 1100. Further, one or more method steps described in any of the embodiments may be performed utilizing a plurality of devices 1100 in communication with one another.

[0091] In an advantageous aspect, by implementing the disclosed method, energy saving is managed optimally at the NG RAN nodes.

[0092] The present disclosure corresponds to a standard for 3GPP Rel 19.

[0093] The present disclosure may define one or more example embodiments as:Step 1 : Creating a list of overlapping cellsBased on HO KPIs and HE measurements, a gNB-CU creates a map of overlapping cells for all its own cells.For example, from the figure above, gNBl will create and maintain the following table:A similar table is created and maintained at gNB2 also.Step 2: Adding the UL WUS Configuration detailsAt the start, all the overlapping cells are assumed to be in default mode, which is the periodic SIB1 transmission mode. When a target cell receives a request for OD-SIB1 transmission from a source cell, then the target gNB-CU updates the table with the relevant UL WUS Configuration for the source cell.Step 3: Adding the NES mode detailsIf the target cell decides to support the NES mode of the source cell, then target cell sends a ACK to the source cell. Once the source cell transitions to the NES mode, it sends a notification to the target cell. Based on this, the target gNB-CU updates the NES mode entry against the listing of the source cell.Step 4: Adding the relationship details (What is the role of target cell for the source cell) Case a: When a source cell attempts to activate NES mode:If the target cell decides to support the NES mode of the source cell, and once the source cell sends a notification to inform the target cell that the NES mode is activated, the table is updated with the relationship information that the target cell is Cell A to the source cell. And its status is supported. If the target cell refuses to support the NES mode of the source cell, there are two possibilities:1. The source cell (based on some other target cell’s support) transitions to NES mode. It informs all the overlapping cells of its NES mode. The source cell’s entry in the target cell’s gNB-CU will still be Cell A, but its status will be not supported, and its mode is update to NES mode.2. The source cell does not transition to NES mode due to lack of support. The source cell’s entry in the target cell’s gNB-CU will still be Cell A, but its status will be not supported, and its mode remains default mode.In the source cell gNB-CU, the corresponding entry of the target cell will reflect the relationship as Cell A and update the status as supported or not supported.In summary, the following are the possible relationship entries and the status entries:• Source Cell is NES cell and the target Cell is Cell A and the status is supported if the targetcell is currently supporting the NES mode of the source cell.• Source Cell is NES cell to the target Cell which is Cell A and the status is that target cell is currently not supporting the NES mode.• Source Cell is a Cell A and the target cell is the NES cell, where the status is supported if the source cell is supporting the NES mode of the target cell.• Source Cell is a Cell A and the target cell is the NES cell, where the status is not supported if the source cell is not supporting the NES mode of the target cell.• Source Cell is a NES cell, and Target Cell is a NES cell, then the relationship is NULL and the status is Not Applicable• Source Cell is a Cell A, and Target Cell is a Cell A, then the relationship is NULL and the status is Not ApplicableCase b: When a source cell attempts to deactivate NES mode:There are two conditions under which a cell decides to deactivate the NES mode. One when the trigger conditions for energy saving are no longer valid, then the source cell might decide to deactivate NES mode, and transition to default mode with periodic SIB 1 transmission. The second possibility is that when none of the overlapping cells continue to support the NES mode of the source cell, then the source cell might be forced to deactivate the NES mode.In either of these cases, when the source cell deactivates the NES mode, it sends a notification to all the overlapping cells of the change in the NES mode. And the receiving target nodes will update the table entry for NES mode, current relationship and current status.Step 5: Other Updates• Whenever a source cell’s UL WUS Configuration changes, it informs all the overlapping cells with this information. This is especially important, if the source cell is in the NES mode. When the target cell receives this information, it updates the database and also updates the UL WUS configuration of the source cell before broadcasting it in its own SIB.• If the initial table is created at the gNB-CU based on the HO KPIs and UE measurements, the entries in the table might fluctuate based on these reports. However, the gNB-CU can apply a hysteresis to keep the table constant, and not susceptible to transient networkbehaviour. This is especially important, since a cell in NES mode might not support incoming HOs and the neighbouring cells might not consider it as a valid overlapping cell.• On the other hand, the table should reflect the neighbours with which it has the highest successful mobility transactions, so that unnecessary signalling is avoided between neighbours which might not have too much of UE movement.Step 6: Optimization• If a cell consistently gets a failure response from an overlapping cell in response to its request for UL WUS transmission, then the gNB-CU of the source cell may decide not to send further requests to that particular cell• The source cell gNB-CU may send the request to transmit UL WUS Configuration to the target cell eNB-CU with an additional field containing the target cell IDs which it wants as a support for its NES activation.• With the use of AI / ML a NG RAN node (gNB-CU) may optimize the creation and maintenance of NES NRT (Neighbour relationship table).

[0094] Examples of the techniques and apparatus described herein include, but are not limited to, the following enumerated embodiments:[1] An apparatus configured to:monitor one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell; determine, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode; andin response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, determine, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell; wherein the cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.[2] The apparatus as described in [1], wherein prior to determining the at least one anchor cell, the apparatus is configured to:receive, from a User Equipment (UE), one or more measurement reports; and generate the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports.[3] The apparatus as described in any of [l]-[2], wherein in response determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to:determine, based on the cell mapping information, one or more overlapping cells; and encode the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more System Information Blocks (SIBs) of the one or more overlapping cells,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.[4] The apparatus as described in any of [l]-[3], wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, the apparatus is configured to:configure the at least one associated cell to transmit default System Information Block (SIB1) information; andremove the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell from SIBs of the one or more overlapping cell,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.[5] The apparatus as described in any of [ l]-[4], wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to:transmit a provision request to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, wherein the provision request comprising a cell ID and the UL WUS configuration associated with the at least one associated cell;receive, from the gNB, an acknowledgement message indicating acceptance of the provision request; andconfigure the at least one associated cell to stop default SIB1 transmission.[6] The apparatus as described in any of [l]-[5], wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, the apparatus is configured to:transmit a notification to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change of status of the at least one associated cell; andconfigure the at least one associated cell to perform default System Information Block (SIB1) transmission.[7] The apparatus as described in any of

[0001] -[6], further configured to:receive, from a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, a notification indicating a change in support status of NES mode for the at least one associated cell; and configure the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode.[8] The apparatus as described in any of [l]-[7], wherein the one or more measurement reports comprises at least one of one or more Handover (HO) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and one or more UE measurements.[9] The apparatus as described in any of

[0001] -[8], wherein the apparatus corresponds to one of a gNodeB (gNB), a gNB-Central Unit (gNB-CU), and a gNB-Distributed Unit (gNB-DU).

[0010] A method comprising:monitoring one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell; determining, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode; andin response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, determining, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell;wherein the cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System InformationBlock (SIB1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

[0011] The method as described in

[0010] , wherein prior to determining the at least one anchor cell, the method comprises:receiving, from a User Equipment (UE), one or more measurement reports; and generating the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports.

[0012] The method as described in any of

[0010] -

[0011] , wherein in response determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the method comprises:determining, based on the cell mapping information, one or more overlapping cells; and encode the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more System Information Blocks (SIBs) of the one or more overlapping cells,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

[0013] The method as described in any of

[0010] -

[0012] , wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, the method comprises:configuring the at least one associated cell to transmit default System Information Block (SIB1) information; andremoving the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell from SIBs of the one or more overlapping cell,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

[0014] The method as described in any of

[0010] -

[0013] , in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to:transmitting a provision request to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, wherein the provision request comprising a cell ID and the UL WUS configuration associated with the at least one associated cell;receiving, from the gNB, an acknowledgement message indicating acceptance of the provision request; andconfiguring the at least one associated cell to stop default SIBl transmission.

[0015] The method as described in any of

[0010] -

[0014] , wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, the method comprises:transmitting a notification to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change of status of the at least one associated cell; andconfiguring the at least one associated cell to perform default System Information Block (SIBl) transmission.

[0015] The method as described in any of

[0010] -

[0014] , further comprises:receiving, from a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, a notification indicating a change in support status of NES mode for the at least one associated cell; and configuring the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode.

[0016] The method as described in any of

[0010] -

[0015] , wherein the one or more measurement reports comprises at least one of one or more Handover (HO) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and one or more UE measurements.

[0017] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:monitor one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell; determine, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode; andin response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, determine, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell; wherein the cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

[0095] The embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented through at least one software program running on at least one hardware device and performing network management functions to control the elements. The elements can be at least one of a hardware device or a combination of hardware devices and software modules.

[0096] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0097] The drawings and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein.

[0098] Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible. The scope of embodiments is at least as broad as given by the following claims.

[0099] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature or component of any or all the claims.

[0100] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and / or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of at least one embodiment, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.

Claims

1. We Claim:

1. An apparatus configured to:monitor one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell; determine, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode; andin response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, determine, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell, wherein the cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein prior to determining the at least one anchor cell, the apparatus is configured to:receive, from a User Equipment (UE), one or more measurement reports; and generate the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein in response determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to:determine, based on the cell mapping information, one or more overlapping cells; and encode the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more System Information Blocks (SIBs) of the one or more overlapping cells,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, the apparatus is configured to: configure the at least one associated cell to transmit default System Information Block (SIBl) information; andremove the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell from SIBs of the one or more overlapping cell,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode, the apparatus is configured to: transmit a provision request to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, wherein the provision request comprising a cell ID and the UL WUS configuration associated with the at least one associated cell;receive, from the gNB, an acknowledgement message indicating acceptance of the provision request; andconfigure the at least one associated cell to stop default SIBl transmission.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode, the apparatus is configured to: transmit a notification to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change of status of the at least one associated cell; andconfigure the at least one associated cell to perform default System Information Block (SIB1) transmission.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, further configured to:receive, from a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, a notification indicating a change in support status of NES mode for the at least one associated cell; and configure the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode.

8. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the one or more measurement reports comprises at least one of one or more Handover (HO) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or one or more UE measurements.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus corresponds to one of a gNodeB (gNB), a gNB-Central Unit (gNB-CU), or a gNB -Distributed Unit (gNB-DU).

10. A method compri sing :monitoring one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell;determining, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode; andin response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, determining, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell,wherein the cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising, prior to determining the at least one anchor cell:receiving, from a User Equipment (UE), one or more measurement reports; and generating the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports.

12. The method of claim 10, further comprising, in response determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode:determining, based on the cell mapping information, one or more overlapping cells; andencoding the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more System Information Blocks (SIBs) of the one or more overlapping cells,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

13. The method of claim 10, further comprising, in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode:configuring the at least one associated cell to transmit default System Information Block (SIB1) information; andremoving the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell from SIBs of the one or more overlapping cell,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

14. The method of claim 10, further comprising, in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode:transmitting a provision request to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, wherein the provision request comprising a cell ID and the UL WUS configuration associated with the at least one associated cell;receiving, from the gNB, an acknowledgement message indicating acceptance of the provision request; andconfiguring the at least one associated cell to stop default SIB1 transmission.

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising, in response to determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the NES mode to the default mode:transmitting a notification to a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell indicating a change of status of the at least one associated cell; andconfiguring the at least one associated cell to perform default System Information Block (SIB1) transmission.

16. The method of claim 10, further comprising:receiving, from a gNodeB (gNB) associated with at least one anchor cell, a notification indicating a change in support status of NES mode for the at least one associated cell; and configuring the at least one associated cell to disable the NES mode.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the one or more measurement reports comprises at least one of one or more Handover (HO) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) or one or more UE measurements.

18. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to:monitor one or more network charactertics associated with at least one associated cell; determine, based on the one or more network characteristics, whether the at least one associated cell requires transition between a default mode and a Network Energy Saving (NES) mode; andin response to determining that the at least one associated cell requires transition from the default mode to the NES mode, determine, based on cell mapping information, at least one anchor cell for the at least one associated cell to enable NES mode at the at least one associated cell, wherein the cell mapping information comprises a plurality of source cells and associated at least one of a cell ID, an associated target gNodeB (gNB) information, System Information Block (SIB1) mode information, and Uplink (UL) Wake Up Signal (WUS) configuration, NES mode information, cell relationship information, and a current status of the corresponding cell.

19. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the instructions when executed cause the one or more processors to, prior to determining the at least one anchor cell:receive, from a User Equipment (UE), one or more measurement reports; and generate the cell mapping information corresponding to the UE based on the one or more measurement reports.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 18, wherein the instructions when executed cause the one or more processors to, in response determining that the at least one associated cell require transition from the default mode to the NES mode:determine, based on the cell mapping information, one or more overlapping cells; and encode the UL WUS configuration of the at least one associated cell within one or more System Information Blocks (SIBs) of the one or more overlapping cells,wherein the at least one anchor cell is determined from the one or more overlapping cells.

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