On-Demand Synchronization Signal Block Control for Energy-Efficient Mobility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing mechanisms for triggering on-demand synchronization signal blocks (SSBs) in wireless networks are inadequate, leading to inefficiencies in energy consumption and network resource utilization.

Innovation Solution

Implementing mechanisms for activating on-demand SSBs using RRC signaling, MAC control elements, and DCI to optimize their operation, including configuration of SSB patterns and triggers for Type-2 SSBs in secondary cells (SCells) to enhance energy efficiency and network performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If periodic SSB transmissions are used, then network coverage and synchronization are maintained, but energy consumption and network resource utilization deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork coverage and synchronizationVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic SSB transmission by introducing on-demand SSB (OD-SSB) configurations that can be activated or deactivated based on network conditions and UE requirements. The MAC CE mechanism enables dynamic switching between periodic and on-demand transmission modes, allowing the system to adapt transmission behavior to actual needs rather than following a fixed periodic schedule.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the transmission parameter from fixed periodic intervals to variable on-demand timing. By introducing activation commands and configuration parameters (such as ssb-PositionInBurst, ssb-PeriodicityServingCell), the system can adjust transmission characteristics based on current network state, transforming the rigid periodic parameter into a flexible on-demand parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If on-demand SSB configurations are implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but device complexity and signaling overhead worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the existing MAC CE mechanism universal by extending its functionality to handle SSB activation commands in addition to its traditional purposes. The same MAC CE structure and processing logic are reused for multiple functions (scheduling, activation, configuration), reducing the need for separate dedicated signaling mechanisms and thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces configuration parameters as intermediaries that bridge the gap between network decisions and UE actions. These parameters (ssb-PositionInBurst, ssb-PeriodicityServingCell, etc.) carry the necessary information from the network to the UE, enabling the UE to autonomously execute on-demand SSB operations without requiring complex real-time signaling for each transmission decision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Use of energy by moving object

If SSB transmissions are reduced, then energy consumption decreases, but measurement accuracy for mobility and handover deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidmeasurement accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the network monitors UE measurement reports and mobility status, then uses this information to make informed decisions about SSB activation. The MAC CE activation commands are triggered based on feedback from UE measurements and network conditions, ensuring that SSB transmissions occur when they are most needed for accurate mobility measurements and handover decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent prepares the system for on-demand SSB operations by pre-configuring parameters (ssb-PositionInBurst, ssb-PeriodicityServingCell, measurement timing configurations) before actual on-demand transmissions occur. This preliminary configuration ensures that when SSB transmissions are activated, the UEs are already prepared to perform accurate measurements, eliminating the need for frequent transmission just for configuration purposes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20260032609A1Technologies for synchronization signal block adaptation
Publication Date: 2026.01.29 APPLE INC
  • US20260032609A1 patent drawing
  • US20260032609A1 patent drawing
  • US20260032609A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods for hybrid synchronization signal block.