Terminal Communication Module Activation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
In a multi-radio access technology (RAT) environment, terminals face challenges in managing power consumption while supporting both licensed and unlicensed band communication systems, particularly in maintaining activation states of communication modules and performing downlink monitoring across different terminals, leading to inefficient power usage and potential data transmission delays.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that dynamically control the activation states of communication modules in terminals, activating only those necessary for traffic presence and deactivating them in absence of traffic, with a representative terminal in a group performing downlink monitoring and controlling activation states for other terminals based on monitoring results, using techniques like power saving mode (PSM) and beacon signal optimization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a terminal simultaneously supports multiple communication modules for different RATs, then communication versatility is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic activation and deactivation of communication modules based on real-time traffic conditions. The terminal controller activates only the necessary communication modules (licensed or unlicensed band) when traffic is detected and deactivates them when traffic is absent, making the system adaptable rather than static.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational state parameter of communication modules from a fixed always-on state to a dynamically changing state based on traffic presence. This parameter change enables the terminal to switch between active and inactive states, reducing power consumption while maintaining communication versatility.
2Speed
If all communication modules are kept in activation state, then data transmission speed is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic monitoring of traffic conditions and periodic activation/deactivation of communication modules. The controller periodically checks for traffic presence and adjusts module activation states accordingly, creating a rhythmic pattern of activity that balances speed requirements with power conservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary activation of communication modules only when traffic is detected or anticipated, rather than keeping them continuously active. This preliminary action based on traffic detection ensures that modules are activated just in time for data transmission, maintaining speed when needed while conserving power during idle periods.
3Reliability
If each terminal performs independent downlink monitoring, then communication reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the downlink monitoring function from individual terminals to a representative terminal within a group. Instead of each terminal performing independent monitoring, one terminal is designated to perform monitoring on behalf of the group, combining multiple monitoring functions into a single execution point.
Solution Approach 2:
The representative terminal acts as an intermediary between the network and other terminals in the group. It performs downlink monitoring and relays information to other terminals, eliminating the need for each terminal to independently monitor downlink signals while maintaining communication reliability for the entire group.
4Use of energy by moving object
If communication modules are deactivated to save power, then power consumption is reduced, but data transmission delays may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the terminal controller continuously monitors traffic conditions and uses this feedback to determine when to activate or deactivate communication modules. This closed-loop control ensures that modules are activated in response to actual traffic needs, preventing delays while avoiding unnecessary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent activates communication modules in advance when traffic is detected, ensuring that the modules are ready for immediate data transmission. This preliminary activation based on traffic detection prevents transmission delays that would occur if modules were activated after traffic arrival, while still maintaining power savings during truly idle periods.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a 5th Generation (5G) or pre-5G communication system supporting a higher data transfer rate after a 4th Generation (4G) communication system such as Long Term Evolution (LTE). In particular, a method and an apparatus for controlling communication of a terminal in a wireless communication system are provided. The method includes receiving information regarding an operation of a second system by using a first communication module configured to support a first system and controlling an activation state of a second communication module configured to support the second system, based on the information regarding the operation of the second system.