Non-Uniform Integer DRX Positioning for 5G Power Saving

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing positioning methods in 5G wireless networks face challenges in efficiently determining the locations of mobile devices due to the limitations of discontinuous reception (DRX) modes, which affect power consumption and traffic accommodation.

Innovation Solution

Implementing non-uniform integer DRX cycles and reference signal configurations with non-uniform integer spacings between transmissions to align positioning and sensing operations, allowing for efficient power management and accommodation of non-uniform-integer traffic.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If uniform integer DRX cycles are used, then device operation is simplified and synchronized, but power consumption increases and flexibility to accommodate non-uniform traffic is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveDRX cycle synchronizationVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static uniform DRX cycles to dynamic non-uniform DRX cycles. The network entity configures different DRX cycle lengths for different UEs or different time periods based on traffic patterns. This allows the system to adapt DRX parameters dynamically to match actual traffic demands, reducing power consumption during low-activity periods while maintaining synchronization during high-activity periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of DRX cycle length from fixed uniform values to variable non-uniform values. By adjusting the DRX cycle parameter based on traffic characteristics, UE capabilities, and network conditions, the system optimizes the balance between power saving and operational efficiency. Different UEs can be assigned different DRX cycle parameters tailored to their specific requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If non-uniform integer DRX cycles are implemented, then power savings improve and traffic accommodation flexibility increases, but positioning and sensing operation alignment becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidpositioning operation alignment
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism in the form of reference signal configurations that act as a mediator between non-uniform DRX cycles and positioning/sensing operations. The network entity configures reference signals with specific timing relationships that bridge the non-uniform DRX wake-up times with the required positioning/sensing measurement times. This intermediary layer simplifies the alignment process by providing a structured framework for coordinating operations across different time scales.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring reference signal transmission times and UE measurement times before actual positioning or sensing operations occur. The network entity establishes the timing relationships in advance through RRC configuration, so that when UEs wake up during non-uniform DRX cycles, they already have predetermined reference signal occasions to measure. This eliminates the need for complex real-time alignment calculations during active operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If reference signal transmissions are uniformly spaced, then transmission scheduling is simplified, but positioning precision and sensing accuracy are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission schedulingVSAvoidpositioning accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by making reference signal transmissions non-uniformly spaced to optimize positioning and sensing performance in specific local conditions. Instead of applying a uniform spacing pattern across all transmissions, the system adjusts the spacing of individual reference signal occasions based on local requirements such as UE velocity, channel conditions, and positioning accuracy demands. This allows higher precision where needed while maintaining simpler scheduling where conditions permit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Productivity

If non-uniform integer spacing between reference signal transmissions is used, then positioning and sensing efficiency improves, but transmission configuration complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning efficiencyVSAvoidtransmission configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing the non-uniform reference signal configuration framework to serve multiple functions simultaneously. The same configuration mechanism supports both positioning operations and sensing operations, accommodates different UE capabilities, and adapts to various traffic patterns. By creating a universal configuration approach that handles diverse requirements through a single standardized interface, the patent reduces the effective complexity despite the non-uniform nature of the transmissions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12507315B2Non-uniform-integer positioning and/or sensing behavior
Publication Date: 2025.12.23 QUALCOMM INC
  • US12507315B2 patent drawing
  • US12507315B2 patent drawing
  • US12507315B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method, for at least one of positioning or sensing, includes: operating a UE in a non-uniform integer DRX mode having non-uniform integer DRX cycles; and performing, at the UE, at least one of a positioning operation or a sensing operation, corresponding to a reference signal, based on the UE operating in the non-uniform integer DRX mode.