RAN Node Reachability Parameter for 5G CIoT Power Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
5G Cellular Internet of Things (CIoT) devices face power limitations and inefficiencies in battery life due to keeping transmitters and receivers active during non-communication periods, leading to reduced battery life and increased power consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method in the Radio Access Network (RAN) node to receive a connection resume request from a wireless terminal, determine the state of a reachability request parameter, and only transmit a connection release message after receiving uplink data, thereby suspending the connection when necessary to conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the RAN node immediately transmits connection release message after connection resume request, then network resources are efficiently released, but power-limited CIoT devices cannot receive pending downlink data or signaling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control of connection release timing through the reachability request parameter. The RAN node adapts its behavior based on the UE's reachability status and network conditions, transitioning between immediate release and delayed release modes. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize between resource efficiency and reliable data delivery based on real-time conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The reachability request parameter acts as an intermediary mechanism between the UE and the RAN node. It conveys the UE's reachability status to the network, enabling the RAN node to make informed decisions about connection release timing. This intermediary parameter facilitates coordinated action between the power-limited device and the network to ensure reliable data delivery.
2Speed
If the transmitter and receiver are kept on during non-communication periods, then the device can quickly resume communication, but battery life is reduced due to increased power consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring of the reachability request parameter instead of continuous transmission/reception. The UE and RAN node periodically check reachability conditions and resume communication only when necessary. This periodic approach significantly reduces power consumption compared to continuous operation while maintaining the ability to quickly resume communication when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational state parameter from continuous active to conditional active based on the reachability request parameter. When the parameter indicates non-reachability, the transmitter and receiver are turned off or placed in low-power mode. When reachability is confirmed, normal operation resumes. This parameter-driven state change optimizes the balance between communication speed and power consumption.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the RAN node suspends connection to conserve power in CIoT devices, then battery life is extended, but pending downlink data and signaling may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The RAN node performs preliminary actions by buffering pending downlink data and signaling before the UE becomes unreachable. The reachability request parameter triggers the RAN node to store necessary data in advance, ensuring that when the UE resumes communication, the buffered data can be delivered without loss. This preliminary buffering action prevents information loss while allowing power-saving suspension.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuity of useful action through data buffering in the RAN node. Even though the UE connection is suspended for power saving, the network continues to hold and manage downlink data continuously. When the UE becomes reachable again, the data transmission continues without interruption or loss, ensuring seamless service restoration.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a method for operating a radio access network (RAN) node of a wireless communication network. The method comprises: receiving a connection resume request message from a wireless terminal at the RAN node instructing the RAN node to establish a connection with the wireless terminal; providing release information for the wireless terminal at the RAN node; determining a state of a reachability request parameter at the RAN node; receiving uplink data from the wireless terminal at the RAN node, wherein the uplink data is associated with the connection resume request message; and transmitting a connection release message to the wireless terminal after receiving the uplink data responsive to the release information for the wireless terminal and determining the state of a reachability request parameter at the RAN node, wherein responsive to the state of the reachability request parameter at the RAN node having a first state, instructing the RAN node to not immediately transmit a connection release message to release and/or suspend the connection with the wireless terminal.