On-Demand System Information Update for Wireless UE Power Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless communication systems with network-centric MAC layers perpetually broadcast synchronization signals and system information, leading to power consumption and inefficiency, as not all UEs may receive or use the broadcasted information.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a UE-centric MAC layer that allows system information to be transmitted on-demand, where UEs request updates based on changes or movements, using unicast or narrow-beam operations, reducing unnecessary broadcasts and power consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the network perpetually broadcasts synchronization signals and system information, then UEs can discover and access the network reliably, but power consumption increases and network efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork access reliabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The network switches from continuous broadcasting to periodic broadcasting of synchronization signals and system information. The base station transmits these signals at regular intervals rather than continuously, reducing power consumption while ensuring UEs can still discover and access the network reliably during the broadcast periods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements an on-demand mechanism where UEs can request system information updates when needed, rather than relying solely on periodic broadcasts. The network responds to these requests by providing updated system information, allowing the system to serve itself efficiently based on actual demand.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If the network perpetually broadcasts system information, then all UEs can receive updates, but network processing overhead and inefficiency increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem information deliveryVSAvoidnetwork efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential function of system information delivery from continuous broadcasting and implements it through targeted, on-demand transmissions. Instead of broadcasting to all UEs regardless of need, the network extracts and delivers only the necessary information to specific UEs that have requested it, improving overall network efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static, continuous broadcasting model to a dynamic, adaptive model where system information transmission is adjusted based on actual UE needs and requests. The network dynamically determines when and what to broadcast based on UE feedback and movement detection, optimizing network efficiency while maintaining reliable information delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If UEs continuously monitor for system information updates, then they can stay synchronized with network changes, but UE power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem information synchronizationVSAvoidUE power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables UEs to self-manage their system information updates by allowing them to request updates only when they detect they have moved to a new zone or when network changes are indicated. This self-service approach eliminates the need for continuous monitoring while ensuring UEs maintain synchronization with network changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The network provides feedback mechanisms such as zone identifiers and change indicators that allow UEs to determine whether system information updates are available without continuously monitoring. UEs use this feedback to intelligently decide when to request updates, reducing their power consumption while maintaining synchronization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10616822B2System information updating
Publication Date: 2020.04.07 QUALCOMM INC
  • US10616822B2 patent drawing
  • US10616822B2 patent drawing
  • US10616822B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A first method includes receiving a first signal at a user equipment (UE), where the UE communicates with a network using first system information, the first signal including an indication of whether system information is to be requested by the UE; determining, based at least in part on the first signal, to request updated system information; and requesting updated system information based at least in part on the determining. A second method includes transmitting a first signal from a base station to a UE, where the UE communicates with a network using first system information, the first signal including an indication of whether system information is to be requested by the UE and information to allow the UE to determine to request updated system information; receiving a request from the UE for updated system information; and transmitting the updated system information based at least in part on the request.