Multi-Interval DRX Synchronization for Discontinuous Satellite Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In non-terrestrial network (NTN) scenarios, such as those involving Low Earth Orbiting (LEO) satellites, the discontinuous coverage due to satellite motion leads to inefficient power consumption in IoT devices, as existing DRX methods fail to account for satellite constellation and UE mobility, resulting in unnecessary activation and battery drain.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-interval DRX method that synchronizes wake-up intervals with satellite coverage timing, determined by network-based orbit and UE information, to optimize energy usage and ensure access during satellite availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing DRX methods are used in NTN scenarios, then device activation occurs according to fixed intervals, but unnecessary activation happens due to discontinuous satellite coverage, leading to increased energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the DRX wake-up intervals adaptive rather than fixed. The network device dynamically adjusts the wake-up interval based on satellite coverage information, UE mobility state, and location data. This allows the device to wake up only when satellite coverage is predicted to be available, eliminating unnecessary activations during coverage gaps while ensuring reliable network access when satellites are visible.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the network device predict future satellite coverage positions and calculate optimal wake-up intervals in advance. Using orbit information and UE location data, the system pre-determines when the UE should wake up to coincide with satellite passes, rather than reacting to coverage availability in real-time. This proactive approach ensures the device is activated only when network access is likely to succeed.
2Reliability
If the device wakes up frequently to ensure network access during satellite passes, then network access reliability improves, but battery life decreases due to unnecessary activations outside coverage areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the DRX wake-up interval parameter based on multiple factors including satellite orbital parameters, UE mobility state (idle, inactive, connected), and predicted coverage duration. The network device calculates optimal wake-up intervals that balance access reliability with battery conservation, adapting the parameter to different operational conditions and satellite constellations (LEO, MEO, GEO).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network device monitors UE location updates, mobility state changes, and actual network access outcomes to refine wake-up interval predictions. The system uses this feedback to continuously optimize the DRX parameters, ensuring that wake-up timing remains synchronized with satellite coverage while adapting to changing operational conditions, thereby extending battery life without compromising access reliability.
3Device complexity
If the device uses continuous coverage assumption, then simple DRX configuration is maintained, but discontinuous satellite coverage causes missed access opportunities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the coverage prediction into discrete time intervals based on satellite orbital parameters and UE mobility states. Instead of treating coverage as a continuous assumption, the system segments the time domain into wake-up intervals aligned with predicted satellite passes. This segmentation allows the relatively simple DRX mechanism to adapt to discontinuous coverage by creating distinct activation windows rather than attempting continuous coverage tracking.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure propose a solution for multi-interval DRX. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a DRX method is introduced to use multiple intervals synchronized with the satellites' coverage timing. The DRX according to embodiments of the present disclosure allows the terminal device to wake up according to a set of pre-determined intervals determined by the network. The network determines the wake-up intervals based on the information on the satellite orbits (ephemeris) and the UE device information. In this way, the energy at the terminal device has been saved, thereby maximizing the battery life of the terminal device. Moreover, it also avoids the terminal device from unnecessary activation.