NB-IoT UE Link Quality Based RX Sleep Mode

The patent implements dynamic RX sleep mode determination by evaluating link quality metrics (such as RSRP, RSRQ, or SINR) during gaps between reception events. The UE adaptively decides whether to enter sleep mode based on real-time channel conditions, transitioning from static to dynamic behavior. This resolves the contradiction by making the sleep mode decision contingent on measured link quality, ensuring measurements are performed when channel conditions warrant it.

The patent introduces a feedback mechanism where the UE measures downlink channel quality during reception gaps and uses this feedback to determine whether to enter RX sleep mode. The measurement results feed back into the sleep mode decision logic, creating a closed-loop system. This feedback approach ensures that sleep mode is only entered when link quality indicates acceptable conditions, preventing performance degradation.

The patent applies partial action by performing link quality measurements only during specific gaps between reception events rather than continuously. The UE selectively measures channel quality in gaps where it determines measurements are beneficial, rather than maintaining constant measurement activity. This partial measurement approach achieves sufficient link quality estimation accuracy while significantly reducing power consumption compared to continuous measurement.

The patent implements periodic measurement action by evaluating link quality at scheduled intervals during reception gaps rather than continuously. The UE performs measurements periodically when gaps occur, rather than maintaining constant measurement operations. This periodic approach balances measurement accuracy requirements with power conservation, as the channel conditions are assessed frequently enough to make informed sleep mode decisions without continuous power expenditure.

The patent applies preliminary action by performing link quality measurements and evaluations during gaps before entering autonomous RX sleep mode. The UE proactively assesses channel conditions and determines whether sleep mode is safe to enter, rather than reacting after missing transmissions. This preliminary evaluation ensures that sleep mode is only entered when link quality metrics indicate the channel is stable enough to tolerate the extended sleep period, preventing critical transmissions from being missed.

The patent implements self-service through autonomous RX sleep mode determination, where the UE independently evaluates its own link quality and makes sleep mode decisions without continuous network control. The device serves itself by monitoring its own channel conditions and autonomously transitioning to sleep mode when appropriate, reducing power consumption while maintaining reliability through self-based quality assessments.