Uplink Timing Alignment Management in SCG Dormant States
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication systems, particularly in multi-RAT Dual Connectivity configurations, there is a conflict between reducing power consumption by entering a non-activated state and maintaining timing alignment with the network to quickly return to an activated state, which affects the efficiency of UE transitions in SCG deactivated or dormant states.
Innovation Solution
A method for wireless communication that involves receiving an indication to establish uplink timing alignment with a secondary node of a secondary cell group, determining if the UE is in alignment, and taking actions to achieve alignment, such as performing a RACH procedure, when operating in SCG deactivated or dormant states, using configured timing alignment timers to manage the duration of non-alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the UE enters a non-activated state (SCG deactivated or dormant state) to reduce power consumption, then power consumption is reduced, but the UE loses uplink timing alignment with the network
Solution Approach 1:
The network configures the UE with a timing alignment timer before the UE enters the non-activated state. This preliminary configuration enables the UE to maintain uplink timing alignment during the deactivated or dormant state, allowing quick transition back to activated state without performing full random access procedure, thus resolving the contradiction between power saving and timing alignment maintenance
2Reliability
If the UE maintains uplink timing alignment while in a non-activated state, then timing alignment is maintained for quick return to activated state, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the timing alignment maintenance behavior based on the state of the SCG. When the SCG is deactivated or dormant, the UE can maintain timing alignment if configured to do so. The network can dynamically control this behavior through configuration messages, allowing flexible adaptation between power saving and timing alignment maintenance based on current network conditions and UE state
3Reliability
If the UE performs RACH procedure to re-establish uplink timing alignment upon activation, then timing alignment is restored, but transition delay increases
Solution Approach 1:
The timing alignment timer is configured in advance before the UE enters the non-activated state. This preliminary action allows the UE to maintain timing alignment information during the deactivated or dormant state, so that upon activation, the UE can immediately use the stored timing alignment without performing the full RACH procedure, thereby reducing transition delay while maintaining reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure relate to wireless communications, and more particularly, to mechanisms for maintaining timing alignment between a user equipment (UE) and a secondary cell group (SCG), which may help the UE may quick and efficient transitions from a dormant or de-active state in the SCG to an active state.