Fast Activation Deactivation for Low Latency Wireless Communications
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communications systems, ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) require frequent monitoring of the downlink control channel to meet latency requirements, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced battery life in user equipment (UE) due to continuous power usage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mechanism for fast activation and deactivation of the URLLC service mode in UE, where the base station transmits activation and deactivation indications via medium access control (MAC) control elements or layer 1 signaling, allowing the UE to conserve power when no traffic is present, and using a timer for automatic deactivation when no service traffic is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE frequently monitors the downlink control channel to meet latency requirements, then the reliability and latency requirements for URLLC are satisfied, but the energy consumption at the UE increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between two operational modes: a first mode where the UE frequently monitors the downlink control channel to meet URLLC latency requirements, and a second mode where monitoring is reduced to conserve energy. The base station dynamically indicates to the UE which mode to operate in, allowing the system to adapt to varying traffic conditions and prioritize either latency or energy consumption based on current needs.
2Speed
If the UE continuously monitors the downlink control channel, then low latency communications are maintained, but the battery life of the UE is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by implementing a timer mechanism that automatically switches the UE from the first monitoring mode to the second energy-saving mode after a predetermined period of inactivity or when no URLLC traffic is detected. This periodic switching allows the system to maintain low latency when needed while conserving battery life during periods when URLLC services are not actively required.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. As described herein, a service type may be configured, activated, and utilized for subsequent communications according to the service type. For example, a user equipment (UE) may monitor a downlink control channel associated with the service type based on configuring the service type and activating the service type, receive downlink messages associated with the service type, or transmit uplink messages associated with the service type. In some cases, the service type may be activated by transmitting a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE) or a downlink control information (DCI) message. When traffic associated with the service type is no longer present, the service type may be deactivated based on a deactivation indication and/or a deactivation timer. In some cases, the service type may include an ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC) service or a low latency service.