MICO Mode Registration Timer Control for 5G UE Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication networks, particularly in 5G systems, face challenges in efficiently managing the Mobile Initiated Connection Only (MICO) mode, which affects the mobility framework and connection management.

Innovation Solution

A method is introduced that involves a UE (User Equipment) requesting registration with a preferred MICO mode and suggested duration, which is then determined by an AMF (Access and Mobility Management Function) based on communication patterns. The AMF transmits a determination and a periodic registration update timer value to the UE, allowing it to perform registration updates accordingly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If the UE operates in MICO mode to reduce power consumption and limit reachability, then energy efficiency is improved, but network control and monitoring capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveUE power consumptionVSAvoidnetwork control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic registration updates where the UE transitions to connected state at regular intervals defined by a periodic registration update timer. This allows the network to periodically regain control and monitoring capability while the UE remains in idle state for extended periods, achieving a balance between power savings and network control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Reliability

If the UE frequently updates registration to maintain network reachability, then network control capability is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork reachabilityVSAvoidUE power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the periodic registration update timer value based on network policies and UE behavior. The timer can be modified by the network to optimize the balance between reachability and power consumption, allowing the system to adapt to different operational scenarios rather than using fixed update intervals.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Speed

If the network maintains continuous connection to ensure immediate service delivery, then service responsiveness is improved, but network resource consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice delivery speedVSAvoidnetwork resource consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent allows the network to prepare for potential service delivery by maintaining the ability to quickly transition the UE from idle to connected state through periodic registration updates. While the UE is in idle state saving resources, the network retains control information and can rapidly establish connection when service is needed, achieving a balance between resource efficiency and service responsiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP4061070B1Method and apparatus for supporting access control and mobility management
Publication Date: 2025.04.09 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • EP4061070B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4061070B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4061070B1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

The present application provides a method and apparatus for supporting general registration of user equipment to facilitate MO only mode preferences.