Multi-Level Discontinuous Activity Configuration for UE Power Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Enhanced Discontinuous Reception (eDRX) solutions in cellular communications networks are inadequate for UEs that require infrequent wake-ups, as existing DRX cycles are too short, leading to insufficient power savings and unclear UE behavior, especially for M2M devices with limited battery life.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-level discontinuous activity configuration that adapts the activity of User Equipment (UE) by extending the DRX cycle length, allowing for longer measurement periods and improved measurement accuracy, enabling UEs to meet various power saving requirements and ensuring consistent network awareness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If DRX cycle is extended to enable infrequent wake-ups, then battery savings improve, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the discontinuous activity into multiple levels: a first level with longer cycles (e.g., eDRX) for battery saving and a second level with shorter cycles for measurements. The UE performs measurements during the shorter cycles while maintaining the longer overall cycle structure, thus achieving both power savings and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic measurement opportunities within the discontinuous reception framework. The UE wakes up at regular intervals (shorter DRX cycles) specifically for measurements, then returns to sleep, while the overall eDRX cycle remains extended. This periodic action ensures measurements are performed without requiring continuous wakefulness.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If DRX cycle is extended for power savings, then battery lifetime improves, but network awareness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE reports measurement results to the network during its wake-up periods. The network uses this feedback to make scheduling decisions, maintaining awareness of UE conditions and channel quality without requiring continuous UE presence. The UE provides periodic feedback that keeps the network informed.
3Loss of energy
If DRX cycle is extended to reduce wake-up frequency, then power consumption decreases, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the DRX cycle dynamic by implementing multi-level configurations. The UE can operate with longer cycles during periods when measurements are less critical, and switch to shorter cycles when measurement accuracy is required. This dynamic adjustment optimizes the balance between power consumption and measurement accuracy based on current network conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods relating to operation under multi-level discontinuous activity configuration are disclosed. In some embodiments, a method of operation of a User Equipment device (UE) is disclosed. The multi-level discontinuous activity configuration is associated with a first level and a second level of discontinuous activity configuration. In some embodiments, the method comprises obtaining a configuration of the first level of a multi-level discontinuous activity. The first level of the multi-level discontinuous activity configuration is associated with a first discontinuous activity cycle that is longer than a second discontinuous activity cycle associated with the second level of the multi-level discontinuous activity. The method further comprises adapting at least one procedure related to the configuration of the first level of the multi-level discontinuous activity and/or at least one parameter in the configuration of the first level of the multi-level discontinuous activity.