Sidelink DRX Control via MAC CE for Power and Latency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies face challenges in effectively controlling the discontinuous reception (DRX) status of terminal devices in wireless communication networks, particularly in managing DRX cycles and resource allocation for sidelink transmissions, which affects power consumption and latency performance.

Innovation Solution

The method involves transmitting and receiving messages over sidelinks to control the DRX status of terminal devices, aligning DRX active periods between devices, and using MAC control elements to manage DRX configurations, thereby optimizing DRX cycles and resource usage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Use of energy by moving object

If DRX operation is configured to reduce power consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but latency performance deteriorates due to discontinuous monitoring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower consumptionVSAvoidlatency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic DRX configuration where the network can adjust DRX parameters (cycle length, active time, offset) based on current traffic conditions and service requirements. This allows the system to switch between aggressive power-saving modes and low-latency modes dynamically, resolving the contradiction between energy efficiency and latency performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes DRX operational parameters including cycle duration, active time window, and offset values to optimize both power consumption and latency. By adjusting these parameters based on traffic patterns and QoS requirements, the system achieves a balance between energy savings and response time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of time

If DRX active time is extended to reduce latency, then response time is improved, but power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresponse timeVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by extending DRX active time only when necessary for specific services or traffic types that require low latency, while maintaining shorter active times for other traffic. This selective extension minimizes overall power consumption while providing low-latency response when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Use of energy by moving object

If DRX cycles are shortened to improve power efficiency, then energy savings increase, but data loss risk increases due to missed transmissions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy savingsVSAvoiddata loss
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network monitors transmission success and DRX operation effectiveness, then adjusts DRX parameters accordingly. When data loss is detected or traffic patterns change, the system modifies active time duration or cycle length to prevent future data loss while maintaining energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent prepares for potential data loss by configuring buffer resources and implementing redundancy mechanisms that activate when DRX cycles are shortened. This cushioning approach allows aggressive power-saving DRX configurations while protecting against data loss through pre-configured safety nets.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20240073991A1Controlling active time of a terminal device
Publication Date: 2024.02.29 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US20240073991A1 patent drawing
  • US20240073991A1 patent drawing
  • US20240073991A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides a method implemented by a first terminal device. The method includes the step of transmitting, over a sidelink, to a second terminal device, a first message for controlling discontinuous reception (DRX) status of the second terminal device.The corresponding apparatus, system, device, computer-readable storage and carrier, etc. thereof are also provided.