Layer 2 UE Relay DRX Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing layer 2 user equipment (UE) relay procedures, particularly in connected discontinuous reception modes, which affect the reliability and efficiency of sidelink communications.
Innovation Solution
The method involves identifying a relay UE operating in a connected discontinuous reception mode, configuring radio resource control for links between the remote UE, relay UE, and base station, and transmitting or receiving layer-2 communications through the relay UE to enhance communication efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If relay UE operates in connected discontinuous reception mode to save energy, then energy efficiency is improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to periodic reception interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mediator entity (network side or relay UE itself) that manages the DRX configuration and message forwarding. The mediator ensures that during relay UE's reception sleep periods, incoming messages are properly buffered or forwarded through alternative paths, thus maintaining communication reliability while allowing the relay UE to enter low-power states periodically
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the DRX parameters (cycle length, active time, inactivity timer) based on communication conditions. When communication reliability requirements are high, the system shortens DRX cycles or extends active periods. When energy saving is prioritized and conditions permit, longer DRX cycles are used, creating a dynamic balance between energy efficiency and reliability
2Area of stationary object
If layer 2 relay procedure is implemented to extend coverage, then coverage area is improved, but system complexity deteriorates due to additional relay management overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the relay functionality into modular components: relay UE identification, link establishment procedures, message forwarding mechanisms, and DRX coordination. This segmentation allows selective implementation of relay features and simplifies management by treating each aspect as an independent manageable unit rather than a monolithic complex system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the relay mechanism to be universal across different scenarios. The same relay UE can serve multiple remote UEs, the same DRX configuration principles apply whether the relay is UE-to-UE or UE-to-network, and the protocol handles both data forwarding and control signaling through unified procedures, reducing overall system complexity through standardized multi-functional approaches
3Use of energy by moving object
If DRX mode is used on sidelink to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but message transmission timeliness deteriorates due to periodic unavailability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the receiving end monitors the DRX state of the relay UE and provides feedback about message arrival timing requirements. This feedback allows the transmitting end to adjust transmission timing to coincide with DRX active periods, or to trigger wake-up signals, ensuring timely delivery while maintaining DRX power-saving benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses preliminary actions by configuring DRX parameters in advance based on expected communication patterns. Inactivity timers are set to anticipate potential message arrivals, and wake-up indications are prepared beforehand. This preliminary configuration ensures that the relay UE is awake when messages are likely to arrive, reducing transmission delays while maintaining power efficiency during truly idle periods
Data Source
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AI summary
Various aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to wireless communication. In some aspects, a remote user equipment may identify a relay UE that is operating in a connected discontinuous reception mode, wherein the relay UE and the remote UE are connected to a base station, wherein the relay UE is in a discontinuous reception mode on a first link with the base station and a discontinuous reception mode or an active mode on a sidelink with the remote UE and transmit one or more layer-2 communications to, or receiving one or more layer-2 communications from, the base station via the relay UE.