DRX Configuration for Timely Uplink Scheduling in 5G
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, particularly in 5G networks supporting ultra-reliable and low latency communications (URLLC), the discontinuous reception (DRX) mode can lead to transmission delays due to the UE entering an inactive state, which is detrimental for low-latency applications.
Innovation Solution
The method involves configuring DRX configuration information and preventing the MAC entity from entering into inactive time by starting specific timers such as drx-RetransmissionTimerUL and drx-HARQ-RTT-TimerUL, even if a MAC PDU is not transmitted in an uplink grant, thereby ensuring timely retransmissions for de-prioritized uplink transmissions, especially for URLLC traffic.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the UE enters inactive state during DRX mode, then power consumption is reduced, but transmission delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically adjusts the DRX operation by preventing the MAC entity from entering inactive time when de-prioritized uplink transmissions are pending. The system transitions from a static DRX cycle to a dynamic state where the inactive period is suppressed, allowing the UE to remain in active state and monitor PDCCH for retransmission grants, thus resolving the contradiction between power saving and transmission delay
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the DRX parameter behavior by modifying when the inactive time is entered. Specifically, it prevents entry into inactive time under certain conditions (when de-prioritized MAC PDU is not transmitted), effectively changing the drx-InactivityTimer behavior to maintain active state longer, thereby reducing transmission delay while managing power consumption
2Loss of time
If the UE remains in active state to avoid transmission delay, then transmission latency is reduced, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the uplink transmission into prioritized and de-prioritized grants, applying different DRX behaviors to each. Prioritized transmissions follow normal DRX cycles for power saving, while de-prioritized transmissions trigger prevention of inactive state entry. This segmentation allows the system to optimize for low latency when needed while maintaining power efficiency for other transmissions
3Productivity
If de-prioritized uplink transmission is scheduled, then resource utilization is improved, but transmission reliability deteriorates due to potential inactive state entry
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the MAC entity monitors the transmission status of de-prioritized MAC PDUs. When a de-prioritized transmission is not successfully sent, the system provides feedback by preventing entry into inactive time and triggering monitoring of PDCCH for retransmission grants, ensuring reliable delivery while maintaining resource utilization
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present application are directed to a method and apparatus for timely scheduling. The method may include: configuring DRX configuration information; and preventing a MAC entity from entering into inactive time in response to that a first MAC PDU is not transmitted in an uplink grant.