Multi-Connectivity UE Power Savings via Dynamic RAT Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-connectivity user equipment (UE) for wireless communication, the higher power consumption of 5G NR compared to 4G LTE leads to inefficiencies in battery life, especially when the higher throughput of 5G NR is not required, as both technologies are often used simultaneously, leading to unnecessary power usage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where the UE determines its operational state and disables the 5G NR when the required throughput can be adequately met by 4G LTE, using a cross-layer design to communicate throughput information between the MAC layer and the PHY layer, allowing the UE to continue communication solely via 4G LTE to conserve power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If 5G NR and 4G LTE are used simultaneously in multi-connectivity mode, then throughput capability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between 5G NR and 4G LTE based on real-time throughput requirements. The system dynamically adjusts the operating mode from simultaneous dual-connectivity to single-RAT mode when throughput demands are met by 4G LTE alone, thereby optimizing the trade-off between productivity and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the UE by switching between different RAT configurations. When throughput requirements are satisfied by 4G LTE, the system changes the active RAT parameter from dual-connectivity to single-RAT mode, reducing power consumption while maintaining adequate performance.
2Speed
If 5G NR is enabled for higher throughput, then data rate is improved, but battery life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts its operating mode based on real-time throughput requirements. When 4G LTE can satisfy the data rate requirements, the system transitions from 5G NR dual-connectivity mode to 4G LTE-only mode, thereby extending battery life while maintaining adequate speed performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the UE continuously monitors throughput performance and battery status. Based on this feedback, the system intelligently switches between 5G NR and 4G LTE modes, disabling 5G NR when not needed to conserve battery life while ensuring data rate requirements are met.
3Reliability
If both 4G LTE and 5G NR are active, then communication reliability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its connectivity configuration based on real-time conditions. When 4G LTE alone provides sufficient communication reliability, the system transitions from dual-connectivity to single-RAT mode, reducing power consumption while maintaining adequate reliability for the current operational context.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communication in a multi-connectivity user equipment (UE) are described. The UE may communicate with one or more base stations via a first radio access technology (RAT). The UE may determine whether the UE is in a selected state. The selected state may correspond to one or more modes of operation (e.g., a doze mode, a relaxed doze mode, an active WiFi communication mode, a low battery mode). The UE may disable communication via a second RAT in response to determining that the UE is in the selected state. The UE may continue to communicate via the first RAT.