DRX Active Time Control for Fast Wireless Cell Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing Discontinuous Reception (DRX) during cell switching, particularly in L1/L2-based mobility scenarios, leading to long delays, high signaling overhead, and increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing lower-layer signaling for DRX active time management, including RRC signaling and PDCCH monitoring, to facilitate timely and efficient cell switching without entering inactive times, thereby reducing delays and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If L3-based serving cell change is implemented through RRC signaling, then reliability is improved, but delay increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cell switching process into two independent parts: L3 RRC signaling for configuration (maintaining reliability) and L1/L2 physical layer switching for execution (reducing delay). The UE can execute physical layer switching based on L1/L2 indicators without waiting for L3 RRC completion, thereby segmenting the sequential dependency and reducing overall switching time.
Solution Approach 2:
The network performs preliminary actions by configuring DRX parameters and preparing target cell information through RRC signaling before the actual switching event. The UE receives and processes these configurations in advance, so when switching is triggered by L1/L2 signaling, the necessary parameters are already ready, enabling faster execution without compromising reliability.
2Productivity
If L1/L2-based mobility enhancement is implemented for fast cell switching, then productivity is improved, but DRX power saving function deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the DRX active time adjustable and flexible. The network can dynamically extend the DRX active time when cell switching is detected, allowing the UE to remain in active state during the switching transition and then resume normal DRX power-saving mode. This dynamic adjustment maintains both fast switching capability and power efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the DRX parameter (active time duration) based on the switching scenario. When L1/L2 cell switching is detected, the network modifies the DRX active time parameter to accommodate the switching process, ensuring the UE remains awake long enough to complete switching while minimizing overall energy consumption. This parameter adaptation resolves the contradiction between switching speed and power saving.
3Reliability
If DRX active time is extended to complete cell switch, then reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network monitors the cell switching status and provides feedback information to the UE. Based on this feedback, the network can accurately determine when the switching process is complete and adjust the DRX active time accordingly. This feedback-based approach ensures reliable switching completion while minimizing the extension of active time, thereby reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed in the present application are a method used for wireless communications, and an apparatus. A first node receives a first RRC signaling, the first RRC signaling indicating a DRX active time, and the DRX active time being applied to at least a second cell; receives a first signaling on a first cell, the first signaling instructing switching to the second cell; and monitors the PDCCH within the DRX active time on the second cell, wherein the DRX active time depends on the first signaling, and the first signaling is a low-layer signaling. The present application can effectively reduce cell switching delays.