Location-Triggered SSB Control for NES Cell Energy Savings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face inefficiencies in network energy savings due to unnecessary synchronization signal block (SSB) transmissions in network energy savings (NES) cells when idle UEs are present, leading to increased power consumption without measurement capabilities for idle UEs.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize location information to dynamically activate or deactivate SSB transmissions in NES cells based on the presence of UEs, allowing for dynamic sleep state configurations to reduce network energy expenditure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SSB transmissions are continuously performed in NES cells, then synchronization and system information are reliably provided to UEs, but network energy consumption increases unnecessarily when idle UEs are present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic activation and deactivation of SSB transmissions based on UE presence detection. The gNB monitors whether UEs are present in the NES cell coverage area and adjusts SSB transmission accordingly - activating when UEs are detected and deactivating when no UEs are present, thereby adapting the system state to current operational needs and reducing energy waste
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the gNB receives location information from UEs (via L1/L2 measurement reports or other signaling) and uses this feedback to control SSB transmission. The system continuously monitors UE presence and adjusts transmission behavior based on this feedback, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes energy consumption while maintaining service quality
2Loss of energy
If SSB transmissions are deactivated to save energy, then network energy consumption is reduced, but idle UEs cannot perform measurements or access the network
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by proactively activating SSB transmissions when the gNB detects that idle UEs are approaching or entering the NES cell coverage area. Based on location information and movement patterns, the system prepares by activating transmissions before UEs actually need to perform measurements, ensuring seamless service while avoiding unnecessary prolonged activation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic monitoring of UE location information and periodic activation/deactivation cycles for SSB transmissions. The gNB periodically checks whether idle UEs are present in the coverage area and switches transmission states accordingly, creating a rhythm of activation when needed and deactivation when not needed, balancing energy savings with service availability
3Loss of energy
If location information processing is implemented to control SSB transmissions, then energy efficiency is improved, but device and network complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses location information as an intermediary parameter to control SSB transmission decisions. Rather than directly monitoring complex UE states or transmission needs, the system uses location information (obtained through existing measurement reports or signaling) as a simple, reliable indicator to trigger activation or deactivation, simplifying the control logic while achieving energy optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent leverages existing location information mechanisms that serve multiple purposes in the network - location data is already collected for mobility management, handover decisions, and other functions. By reusing this existing multi-functional location information for SSB transmission control, the patent avoids adding dedicated complexity while achieving energy efficiency goals
Data Source
AI summary
On-demand SSB transmissions for NES cells based on location information is described. An apparatus is configured to obtain location information associated with a UE and detect a condition is met based on the location information. The condition is associated with a parameter-based relationship of the UE to a first network node. The apparatus is configured to transmit, based on the condition, an indication associated with activation or deactivation of SSB transmissions at the first or a second network node. Another apparatus is configured to select a sleep state configuration associated with power or latency for a sleep state for a second network node. The apparatus is configured to transmit, to the second network node based on the sleep state configuration, an indication for activation or deactivation of SSB transmissions at the second network node. The indication is indicative of sleep state information associated with the sleep state and the deactivation.