Selective Connected-State RS Reception in Non-Connected UEs
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Solution Overview
Problem
In wireless communication networks, especially in 5G/NR, user equipment (UE) operating in non-connected states (RRC_IDLE or RRC_INACTIVE) face challenges in reducing energy consumption due to the infrequent transmission of reference signals (RS) like SSB, which are less frequent than in LTE networks.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves methods for a UE to receive configurations for connected-state RS, such as periodic channel state information RS (CSI-RS) or periodic tracking RS (TRS), while in a non-connected state. The UE determines when these connected-state RS will be available based on the received configuration and selectively receives them to reduce energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If reference signals are transmitted infrequently in non-connected states, then energy consumption is reduced, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The network pre-configures the UE with connected-state RS parameters (CSI-RS or TRS) before the UE enters non-connected state. This preliminary configuration enables the UE to know when and how to receive reference signals during non-connected state, allowing selective reception that reduces energy consumption while maintaining synchronization accuracy through pre-planned signal reception at designated occasions.
2Use of energy by moving object
If connected-state RS are selectively received during designated occasions, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic state transition where RS configuration changes from connected-state parameters to non-connected-state operation. The UE dynamically adjusts its reception behavior based on pre-configured parameters, switching between receiving connected-state RS during designated occasions and non-connected-state RS (SSB) at other times. This dynamic approach reduces energy consumption while managing device complexity through standardized state transition procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include methods, performed by a user equipment (UE), for receiving reference signals (RS) in a wireless network. Such methods include receiving, from a network node in the wireless network, a configuration for connected-state RS transmitted by the network node. In some embodiments, the connected-state RS can be periodic channel state information RS (CSI-RS) or periodic tracking RS (TRS). Such methods include, while the UE is in a non-connected state and based on the received configuration, determining that the connected-state RS are available during one or more first occasions. Such methods include, while the UE is in the non-connected state, selectively receiving the connected-state RS during the first occasions. Other embodiments include complementary methods performed by a network node, as well as UEs and network nodes configured to perform such methods.