D2D DRX Configuration Switching for Power-Efficient Reception

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication networks lack efficient mechanisms for configuring Discontinuous Reception (DRX) in Device-to-Device (D2D) communication, which is complex due to the broadcast nature and distributed control in D2D transmissions, differing from traditional one-to-one DL/UL communication.

Innovation Solution

Implementing multiple DRX configurations simultaneously for D2D communication, including class-specific and common DRX configurations, to manage active and inactive times based on specific traffic classes and control transitions using timers and control messages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If multiple DRX configurations are implemented simultaneously for different D2D transmission modes, then energy efficiency and power savings are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the DRX configuration into multiple independent configurations, each associated with a specific transmission mode (united, separate, or both). This allows the device to manage different D2D communication scenarios through distinct DRX parameters, enabling targeted power saving for each mode while maintaining overall system manageability through structured organization of configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic switching between different DRX configurations based on the active transmission mode. The device can transition between united DRX configuration and separate DRX configuration depending on whether unicast or broadcast transmissions are occurring, allowing adaptive power management that responds to changing communication conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If DRX configurations are aligned among multiple UEs for D2D communication, then communication reliability is improved, but control complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication reliabilityVSAvoidcontrol complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the DRX alignment mechanism with the existing network-controlled procedures for D2D communication. By utilizing the network's role in coordinating UEs, the alignment of DRX configurations across multiple devices is achieved through established control channels, reducing the need for complex peer-to-peer coordination while maintaining synchronization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where UEs report their DRX configuration status and reception capabilities to the network. This feedback loop enables the network to adjust DRX parameters to ensure proper alignment among UEs, maintaining communication reliability through continuous monitoring and adaptation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Reliability

If DRX active time is extended to ensure reliable reception processing, then communication reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereception processing reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial DRX action by configuring DRX active time to cover only the essential reception windows for D2D transmissions. Instead of maintaining continuous active state, the system uses calculated active periods that are sufficient for reliable reception based on transmission timing and DRX parameters, avoiding excessive energy consumption while ensuring adequate processing time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS12574993B2Multiple DRX configurations for D2D communication
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US12574993B2 patent drawing
  • US12574993B2 patent drawing
  • US12574993B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A wireless communication device (10) simultaneously maintains a first DRX configuration for D2D communication and a second DRX configuration for D2D communication. Based on at least one of the first DRX configuration and the second DRX configuration, the wireless communication device (10) participates in D2D communication with one or more further wireless communication devices (10).