eDRX Parameter Configuration for RRC_INACTIVE State Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G network environments, there is a need to configure Extended Discontinuous Reception (eDRX) parameters for terminal devices in the RRC_INACTIVE state to conserve energy while maintaining service latency, as existing methods lack clarity on how to support eDRX operations in this state.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for configuring eDRX parameters in the RRC_INACTIVE state, where a base station receives indication or configuration information from a terminal device to set up eDRX operations, allowing the terminal device to use these parameters for energy-saving discontinuous reception without affecting service latency, involving a receiving unit to gather information and a configuring unit to set the eDRX parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If eDRX operation is implemented in RRC_INACTIVE state, then power consumption is reduced and standby time is prolonged, but service latency may be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic eDRX configuration where the network can adjust eDRX parameters (such as eDRX cycle length, paging window size) based on terminal device behavior patterns, service requirements, and network conditions. This allows the system to adaptively balance power saving and latency - using longer eDRX cycles for power-sensitive applications while maintaining shorter cycles for latency-sensitive services, thereby resolving the contradiction between reduced power consumption and maintained service latency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multiple eDRX parameter configurations (eDRX cycle, paging window parameters, PTW offset) that can be dynamically adjusted. By changing these parameters based on service type and network conditions, the system can optimize the balance between power saving and latency - for example, configuring shorter eDRX cycles or larger paging windows for low-latency services while using longer cycles for bulk data transfers, thus resolving the power-latency tradeoff
2Use of energy by moving object
If eDRX configuration parameter is configured for terminal device in RRC_INACTIVE state, then energy efficiency is improved, but network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent configures eDRX parameters in advance when the terminal device transitions to RRC_INACTIVE state, based on predicted service patterns and network conditions. The network pre-configures appropriate eDRX parameters (cycle length, paging window) before the device enters inactive state, eliminating the need for complex real-time adjustments and reducing signaling overhead. This preliminary configuration approach simplifies network complexity while maintaining energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables terminal devices to self-report their eDRX capabilities and preferences to the network. The terminal device can indicate supported eDRX parameters, service requirements, and power saving preferences, allowing the network to automatically select appropriate configurations without complex manual intervention. This self-service mechanism reduces network operational complexity while achieving energy efficiency goals
3Duration of action of stationary object
If eDRX operation is supported in inactive state, then standby time is prolonged, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reuses existing DRX mechanism designs and parameter structures for the eDRX implementation in RRC_INACTIVE state. By copying and adapting proven DRX parameter configurations and timing structures from connected state, the patent avoids inventing entirely new complex mechanisms. The eDRX parameters (cycle, window size, offset) follow the same mathematical relationships and timing structures as traditional DRX, reducing device implementation complexity while extending standby time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the eDRX mechanism to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides power saving during inactive state, maintains service latency requirements through configurable parameters, and works across different service types (voice, data, signaling). The same eDRX parameter set can be used for various service scenarios by simple parameter adjustment rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each service type, thereby reducing overall device complexity while achieving extended standby time
Data Source
AI summary
Provided in the embodiments of the disclosure are methods and apparatuses for parameter configuration, a network device, and a terminal device. The method includes that: a first base station receives first indication information and/or first configuration information from a terminal device in a connected state. The first indication information indicates the terminal device uses or supports an extended Discontinuous Reception (eDRX) operation in an inactive state, and the first configuration information includes an eDRX configuration parameter configured by the terminal device; and the first base station configures a first eDRX configuration parameter for the terminal device based on the first indication information and/or the first configuration information, the first eDRX configuration parameter is an eDRX configuration parameter corresponding to the inactive state.