eNB RRC Release Timing for MTC Power Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing number of Machine Type Communication (MTC) devices in LTE networks poses a challenge due to their low data transmission requirements, leading to potential overload of radio access and core networks, and the need for improved power saving mechanisms, especially for devices that cannot charge their batteries.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a Power Saving Mode (PSM) configuration indication system where eNBs adjust the timing of RRC connection release based on UE-specific PSM configuration, allowing UEs to enter idle mode and PSM sooner, thereby reducing power consumption and network resource waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If MTC devices transmit data through LTE networks, then network coverage and connectivity are improved, but the radio access network and core network become overloaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic communication patterns where MTC devices transmit data at scheduled intervals rather than continuously. The network can configure periodic resource allocations for MTC devices, allowing them to wake up, transmit data, and return to idle mode periodically. This reduces the overall network load while maintaining connectivity for all devices.
2Speed
If MTC devices remain in connected mode to ensure quick data transmission, then data transmission speed is improved, but battery power is consumed faster
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-configuring MTC devices with uplink data buffers and pre-allocating radio resources before actual data transmission is needed. When data arrives at the device, it can be quickly buffered and transmitted using pre-configured resources, eliminating the need for lengthy connection setup procedures. This allows devices to remain in idle mode longer, saving battery power while maintaining fast transmission capability when needed.
3Reliability
If RRC connection release timing is delayed, then network control and monitoring are improved, but UE power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by differentiating connection management for different UE types and scenarios. For MTC devices with small, periodic data transmissions, the network applies early RRC connection release to allow these devices to enter idle mode and save power. For other UEs requiring continuous monitoring or large data transfers, the network maintains connections longer. This localized approach optimizes power consumption for MTC devices without compromising network control for other scenarios.
Data Source
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AI summary
An evolved NodeB (eNB), user equipment (UE) and mobility management entity (MME), as well as method of communicating using a power saving mode (PSM) are generally described. A PSM configuration indication of the UE may be received at the eNB from the UE or MME in an Initial UE Context Setup Request, a UE Context Modify Request, core network assistance information, or a dedicated message to the eNB. The eNB may adjust the time for transmitting to the UE an RRC connection release message based on the PSM configuration indication. The eNB may determine whether the UE is in a connection mode and the inactivity timer of the eNB having reached the activation timer of the PSM configuration indication, transmit the RRC connection release message to the MME. The PSM configuration may be provided between eNBs during handover.