UE Load-Adaptive Configuration Switching for Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in optimizing energy consumption on both the network and user equipment (UE) sides, particularly in scenarios where base stations and UEs operate with varying loads, leading to inefficiencies in energy usage.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a dynamic configuration mechanism where UEs receive control signals from base stations to activate or deactivate further configurations, such as Cell DTX and DRX, allowing for adjustments in operating parameters based on load conditions, thereby optimizing energy savings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If UE operates with baseline configuration continuously, then network performance is maintained, but energy consumption increases during low load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic configuration switching where the UE transitions between baseline configuration and further configurations based on real-time load conditions. The control signal enables the UE to activate additional configurations (like extended DRX cycles or DTX modes) during low load periods, optimizing energy savings while maintaining the ability to switch back to baseline configuration when performance requirements demand it.
2Loss of energy
If UE activates further configurations for energy saving, then power consumption decreases, but configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the configuration into a baseline configuration and multiple optional further configurations. Each further configuration represents a distinct energy-saving mode (e.g., different DRX cycle lengths or DTX patterns). This segmentation allows the UE to selectively activate only the necessary configuration level based on load conditions, avoiding the need to manage all possible configurations simultaneously and reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control signal acts as an intermediary mechanism that simplifies configuration management. Instead of requiring the UE to autonomously determine when to switch configurations or manage multiple configuration parameters independently, the base station sends a dedicated control signal that carries configuration activation instructions. This intermediary approach centralizes the decision-making logic and reduces UE processing complexity.
3Productivity
If UE switches configurations dynamically, then energy efficiency improves, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by tailoring the configuration switching behavior to specific UE conditions and network scenarios. Rather than using a uniform signaling approach for all UEs, the system adapts the configuration activation based on individual UE capabilities, current load conditions, and network policies. This allows the system to activate further configurations only when beneficial, avoiding unnecessary signaling overhead in scenarios where energy saving is not prioritized.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments provide a user equipment, UE, of a wireless communication network [e.g., 5G/NR], wherein the user equipment is configured to operate [e.g., to transmit and/or receive signals] using a baseline configuration, wherein the user equipment is configured to receive a control signal from a base station [e.g., eNB] of the wireless communication network, wherein the user equipment is configured to activate or deactivate, in dependence on the received control signal, a further configuration [e.g., load-adapted or load-specific configuration] [e.g., one out of at least two different further configurations].