Secondary Cell Activation via MAC Command Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current Scell activation procedure in telecommunication networks is delayed due to the SMTC periodicity, which hinders efficient power management and user experience, as it relies on SSB-based synchronization, leading to significant activation delays.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves transmitting a MAC layer command from a network device to a terminal device to guide DL synchronization tracking, CSI-Reference Signal measurement, and CSI reporting, allowing the terminal device to utilize synchronization information from an active synchronization reference cell, thereby removing the SMTC periodicity component from the Scell activation delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SSB-based RRM measurement timing (SMTC periodicity) is used for Scell activation, then the terminal device can acquire synchronization with the network device, but the Scell activation delay increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the terminal device acquire downlink synchronization information in advance from the primary cell or another active secondary cell before the actual Scell activation is needed. This pre-synchronization eliminates the need to wait for SMTC periodicity when the Scell activation command is received, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable synchronization acquisition and minimizing activation delay
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a synchronization reference cell (primary cell or another active secondary cell) that provides downlink synchronization information to the terminal device. This intermediary source allows the terminal to obtain synchronization without relying on the Scell's own SSB transmissions, thus reducing activation delay while maintaining synchronization reliability
2Loss of time
If Scell is kept active to reduce activation delay, then user experience improves, but power consumption of the terminal device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the terminal device to perform preliminary synchronization using downlink reference signals from the primary cell or another active secondary cell before Scell activation. This pre-synchronization means that when the Scell is activated, the terminal can immediately use it without waiting for SSB-based synchronization, thus reducing activation delay while allowing the network to deactivate Scells when not in use to save power
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the terminal device reports channel state information and synchronization status to the network device. This feedback allows the network to make informed decisions about when to activate or deactivate Scells, optimizing the balance between reducing activation delay and minimizing power consumption based on actual channel conditions and traffic requirements
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to secondary cell activation. A method comprises transmitting, from a first apparatus and on a serving cell in an active status, a MAC layer command for activating at least one secondary cell to a second apparatus, the MAC layer command indicating a configuration on a procedure for activating the at least one secondary cell. The method further comprises receiving an acknowledgement for the MAC layer command from the second apparatus. The method further comprises causing the second apparatus to synchronize, based on at least the configuration and the acknowledgement, with the first apparatus on the at least one secondary cell. As such, the time for activating a Scell can be greatly shortened.