User Equipment DRX Configuration for Multicast Broadcast Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems face challenges in implementing discontinuous reception for multicast and broadcast services in a 5G network, particularly in ensuring high-reliability service delivery when user equipment (UE) is in an RRC connected state, as existing DRX configurations are primarily designed for unicast and do not effectively interact with MBS services.
Innovation Solution
The proposed method involves user equipment (UE) receiving configuration information for MBS services and determining if a DRX configuration is present; if not, it employs a DRX configuration corresponding to unicast, monitoring a PDCCH addressed via an MBS service identifier, and manages timers associated with HARQ processes to maintain active monitoring for reliable service reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If UE employs unicast DRX configuration for MBS service reception, then energy consumption is reduced, but service reliability may be compromised due to lack of MBS-specific DRX optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the unicast DRX configuration to serve dual purposes: traditional unicast communication and MBS service reception. The UE reuses the existing unicast DRX parameters (onDurationTimer, inactivityTimer, retransmissionTimers) to manage MBS service reception, eliminating the need for separate MBS-specific DRX configuration while maintaining energy efficiency and service reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the UE monitors PDCCH for MBS service identifiers (G-RNTI) and adjusts its reception state based on received feedback signals. The UE enters active time when MBS service data is detected and transitions to dormant state when no data is received, creating a feedback-driven DRX operation that balances energy consumption with service reliability
2Reliability
If UE continuously monitors PDCCH for MBS service, then service quality is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through DRX cycling, where the UE alternates between active monitoring periods and dormant periods. The UE monitors PDCCH periodically based on configured timers (onDurationTimer for initial monitoring, inactivityTimer for continued monitoring after data reception) rather than continuously, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining service quality through timely reactivation when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the UE's reception state flexible and adaptive rather than fixed. The UE dynamically transitions between active and dormant states based on real-time MBS service reception status, timer expiration events, and network feedback, allowing the system to optimize the balance between service quality monitoring and energy consumption based on actual service conditions
3Device complexity
If UE uses unicast DRX configuration for MBS, then implementation complexity is reduced, but interaction between unicast and MBS DRX operations becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating MBS service identification from the DRX timing control. The UE uses separate identifiers (G-RNTI for MBS service detection, C-RNTI for unicast control) and distinct timer logic (MBS-specific onDurationTimer and inactivityTimer alongside unicast DRX timers), allowing independent configuration and management of unicast and MBS DRX operations while using a unified power management framework
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer in the form of a dedicated timer management mechanism that coordinates between unicast DRX operations and MBS service requirements. The UE maintains separate timer instances for unicast and MBS services, with the MAC layer acting as an intermediary that reconciles timing conflicts and ensures proper interaction between the two DRX operation modes
Data Source
AI summary
Provided in the present disclosure are a discontinuous reception method and user equipment. The discontinuous reception method includes: user equipment (UE) receiving configuration information or scheduling information related to a multicast and broadcast service (MBS) service; the UE determining whether a discontinuous reception (DRX) configuration is configured in the configuration information or the scheduling information; and if no DRX configuration is configured in the configuration information or the scheduling information, the UE employing a DRX configuration corresponding to unicast for reception of the MBS service.