UE Idle Mode Power Saving via Additional Reference Symbol Pattern Estimation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
User Equipment (UE) in idle mode experiences power wastage due to the reliance on Synchronization Signal Blocks (SSBs) with long time intervals, necessitating a method to exploit additional reference symbols like CSI-RS/TRS for power saving.
Innovation Solution
The UE estimates the transmission pattern of additional reference symbols (e.g., CSI-RS/TRS) and determines when to wake up during idle mode to perform measurements based on this pattern, thereby reducing the need for frequent SSB receptions and extending deep sleep periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If the UE relies on SSBs with long time intervals for measurements in idle mode, then the UE can maintain basic synchronization, but the UE experiences power wastage due to frequent wake-ups
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary reference signal (CSI-RS or TRS) that acts as a mediator between the SSB and the UE measurement needs. This intermediate reference signal provides additional measurement opportunities without requiring the UE to wake up for every SSB, thus reducing power consumption while maintaining measurement reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the measurement function into two parts: coarse synchronization and cell identification using SSB, and fine-tuned channel quality measurement using additional reference signals. This segmentation allows the UE to use lower-power measurement methods for routine tasks while reserving higher-power SSB reception for essential functions
2Loss of energy
If the UE wakes up frequently to receive SSBs for measurements, then the UE can maintain accurate channel quality information, but the UE cannot extend deep sleep periods for power saving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the network pre-configure multiple reference signal resources (SSB and additional CSI-RS/TRS) with different periodicities and time locations. The UE can then select the most appropriate reference signal for measurements based on current conditions, potentially using the additional reference signals that require less frequent UE wake-ups
3Adaptability or versatility
If the UE uses only SSB for idle mode measurements, then the system maintains simplicity, but the UE cannot exploit additional reference symbols for power saving
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the measurement system multi-functional by enabling the UE to use both SSB and additional reference signals (CSI-RS/TRS) for measurements. The UE can adaptively select which reference signal type to use based on configuration, channel conditions, and power state, providing versatility without requiring complex decision logic
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication device having a receiving module, a transmitting module, and a processor which includes a determining module, and a processing module, wherein the wireless communication device is arranged to perform a method for power saving when operating in idle mode in a wireless communication system. Transmissions of a first set of reference symbols, RSs, and a second set of RSs are provided in the wireless communication system. The method includes estimating transmission pattern of the second set of RSs, and determining when to wake up in the idle mode to perform associated measurements based on the estimated transmission pattern of the second set of RSs. The first set of RSs are provided periodically, and the second set of RSs are provided in any of periodic, semi-persistent or aperiodic transmissions.