Small Data Transmission for RRC Idle and Inactive Terminals
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in efficiently transmitting and receiving small data packets in high-frequency bands, particularly in 5G networks, due to the need for methods that support intermittent data transmission and reception without transitioning the terminal from an RRC idle or inactive state.
Innovation Solution
The method involves generating an indicator for small data transmission using DCI scrambled with P-RNTI or SM-RNTI, configuring a transmission window, and utilizing HARQ responses within a defined reception window to facilitate data transfer in RRC idle or inactive states, with specific resource allocation and monitoring operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the terminal transitions from RRC idle or inactive state to connected state for small data transmission, then reliable data transmission is achieved, but transmission time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The base station performs preliminary actions by monitoring PDCCH for small data destined to idle/inactive terminals and proactively initiating transmission without waiting for terminal state transition. The terminal is pre-configured with monitoring parameters including PDCCH monitoring occasions, RNTI values (P-RNTI, SM-RNTI), and reception window timing, enabling immediate data reception when indicated.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the small data transmission function from the traditional connected-state-only paradigm. By separating small data transmission from the RRC connected state requirement, the system allows idle and inactive terminals to receive data directly through configured monitoring mechanisms, eliminating the need for full state transitions while maintaining reliable delivery through HARQ and acknowledged protocols.
2Loss of time
If the terminal remains in RRC idle or inactive state for small data reception, then transmission time is reduced, but the ability to receive data efficiently deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes key parameters including introducing specific RNTI values (P-RNTI for paging, SM-RNTI for small data) to scramble DCI CRC, configuring specific PDCCH monitoring occasions for idle/inactive terminals, and defining reception window timing parameters. These parameter changes enable efficient data detection and reception while terminals remain in low-power states.
Solution Approach 2:
The terminal dynamically adjusts its monitoring behavior based on received indicators. When an indicator signaling small data availability is detected in the configured monitoring occasion, the terminal activates reception within the defined window. This dynamic approach balances power consumption with efficient data reception, allowing terminals to remain mostly inactive while being ready to receive when necessary.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional DCI formats are used for small data transmission to idle terminals, then compatibility is maintained, but transmission efficiency and resource utilization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by creating specialized DCI formats and monitoring configurations tailored specifically for small data transmission to idle and inactive terminals. Instead of using generic DCI formats designed for connected terminals, the system implements localized optimizations including specific RNTI scrambling, dedicated monitoring occasions, and compact indicator formats that match the unique requirements of intermittent small data traffic patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method of a base station in a communication system may include generating an indicator indicating transmission of small data; transmitting the indicator to a terminal; and transmitting the small data associated with the indicator to the terminal, wherein the terminal operates in a radio resource control (RRC) idle state or an RRC inactive state.