WO2015170009A1

WO2015170009A1 - Method and apparatus for indicating user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network

Info

Publication number: WO2015170009A1
Application number: PCT/FI2015/050308
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jussi-Pekka Koskinen; Ilkka Keskitalo
Original assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
Current assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
Priority date: 2014-05-09
Filing date: 2015-05-07
Publication date: 2015-11-12
Anticipated expiration: 2016-11-09
Also published as: JP2017515402A; JP6378782B2; CN106465269A

Abstract

A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for indicating user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network. A method is provided for causing (306) the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI). The PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration (306). The method also includes receiving (308) a connection release indication and entering a power saving mode (310) in response to the connection release indication and the expiration of the power saving mode timer.

Description

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INDICATING USER EQUIPMENT POWER SAVING MODE CONFIGURATION TO A NETWORK

[0001] An example embodiment of the present invention relates to user equipment power modes and, more particularly, to indicating a user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Machine-to -Machine (M2M) or machine-type communications (MTC) have increased and been deployed in smart grids, home networking, healthcare networking, and vehicular networking environments. MTC user equipment (UE) may have limited battery life and in some instances replacement of batteries may be very difficult or not cost effective. In some MTC UEs the UE may remain in an active connection state regardless of data activity wasting battery capacity by maintaining the connection to the network.

[0003] Although UEs may enter reduced power consumption radio resource control connections, such as cell paging channel (CELL/URA PCH) or cell forwarding channel (CELL FACH), the UE will expend significantly more energy than if the connection was disestablished.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0004] A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided in accordance with an example embodiment for indicating user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network. In an example embodiment, a method is provided that includes causing the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI). The PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration. The method also includes receiving a connection release command indication and entering a power saving mode in response to the connection release command indication and the satisfaction of power saving mode configuration conditions.

[0005] In an example embodiment, the method also includes determining a user equipment has entered a reduced power consumption radio resource control connection. In a further example embodiment, the method also includes starting a power saving mode timer. The satisfaction of the power saving mode configuration conditions includes satisfaction of the power saving mode timer.

[0006] In an example embodiment of the method, the PSMI further comprises a power saving mode timer value. In some example embodiments of the method, the PSMI further comprises a current power saving mode timer value and an initial power saving mode timer value. In an example embodiment of the method, the PSMI is a signaling connection release indication or a power preference indication.

[0007] In an example embodiment, a method is provided including receiving a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment and causing the transmission of a connection release command indication based on the user equipment satisfying at least one power saving mode configuration condition.

[0008] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided including at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code with the at least one memory and computer program code configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to at least cause the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI). The PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration. The at least one memory and computer program code are configured to, with the processor, cause to the apparatus to also receive a connection release command indication and enter a power saving mode in response to the connection release command indication and the satisfaction of power saving mode configuration conditions. [0009] The at least one memory and computer program code of an example

embodiment are also configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to determine a user equipment has entered a reduced power consumption radio resource control connection. The at least one memory and computer program code, of an example embodiment are also configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to start a power saving mode timer. The satisfaction of the power saving mode configuration conditions includes satisfaction of the power saving mode timer.

[0010] In an example embodiment of the apparatus, the PSMI further comprises a power saving mode timer value. In some example embodiments of the apparatus, the PSMI further comprises a current power saving mode timer value and an initial power saving mode timer value.

[0011] In an example embodiment of the apparatus, the PSMI is a signaling connection release indication or a power preference indication.

[0012] In another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided including at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code with the at least one memory and computer program code configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to at least receive a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment and cause the transmission of a connection release command indication based on the user equipment satisfying at least one power saving mode configuration condition.

[0013] In still a further embodiment, a computer program product is provided including at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer- executable program portions stored therein with the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions configured to cause the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI). The PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration. The computer-executable program code portions comprise program code instructions configured to also receive a connection release command indication and enter a power saving mode in response to the connection release command indication and the satisfaction of power saving mode configuration conditions.

[0014] The computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions of an example embodiment are also configured to determine a user equipment has entered a reduced power consumption radio resource control connection. The computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions of an example embodiment are also configured to start a power saving mode timer. Satisfaction of the power saving mode configuration conditions includes satisfaction of the power saving mode timer.

[0015] In an example embodiment of the computer program product, the PSMI further comprises a power saving mode timer value. In some example embodiments of the computer program product, the PSMI further comprises a current power saving mode timer value and initial power saving mode timer value.

[0016] In an example embodiment of the computer program product, the PSMI is a signaling connection release indication or a power preference indication.

[0017] In an example embodiment, a computer program product is provided including at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program portions stored therein with the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions configured to receive a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment and cause the transmission of a connection release command indication based on the user equipment satisfying at least one power saving mode configuration condition. [0018] In yet another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes means for causing the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMl). The PSMl comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration. The apparatus also includes means for receiving a connection release command indication and means for entering a power saving mode in response to the connection release command indication and the satisfaction of power saving mode configuration conditions.

[0019] In still another example embodiment, an apparatus is provided that includes means for receiving a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment and means for causing the transmission of a connection release command indication based on the user equipment satisfying at least one power saving mode configuration condition.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] Having thus described example embodiments of the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

[0021] Figure 1 illustrates a communications diagram in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 2 is a block diagram of an apparatus that may be specifically configured for indicating user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention; and

[0023] Figures 3 and 4 are flow charts illustrating the operations performed, such as by the apparatus of Figure 2, in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0024] Some embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. As used herein, the terms "data," "content," "information," and similar terms may be used interchangeably to refer to data capable of being transmitted, received and/or stored in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Thus, use of any such terms should not be taken to limit the spirit and scope of embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] Additionally, as used herein, the term 'circuitry' refers to (a) hardware-only circuit implementations (for example, implementations in analog circuitry and/or digital circuitry); (b) combinations of circuits and computer program product(s) comprising software and/or firmware instructions stored on one or more computer readable memories that work together to cause an apparatus to perform one or more functions described herein; and (c) circuits, such as, for example, a microprocessor(s) or a portion of a microprocessor(s), that require software or firmware for operation even if the software or firmware is not physically present. This definition of 'circuitry' applies to all uses of this term herein, including in any claims. As a further example, as used herein, the term 'circuitry' also includes an implementation comprising one or more processors and/or portion(s) thereof and accompanying software and/or firmware. As another example, the term 'circuitry' as used herein also includes, for example, a baseband integrated circuit or applications processor integrated circuit for a mobile phone or a similar integrated circuit in a server, a cellular network device, other network device, and/or other computing device.

[0026] As defined herein, a "computer-readable storage medium," which refers to a non-transitory physical storage medium (for example, volatile or non- volatile memory device), can be differentiated from a "computer-readable transmission medium," which refers to an electromagnetic signal.

[0027] A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided in accordance with an example embodiment for indicating user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network. Figure 1 illustrates a communication diagram including a radio access network (RAN) 104, which may facilitate machine-to -machine (M2M) or machine type communication (MTC) between user equipment (UEs) 102. The RAN may be in data communication with a core network 106. A UE 102 may be a mobile computing terminal, e.g. laptop computer, tablet computer, smart phone, wearable computing device, personal data assistant (PDA), or the like; a fixed computing device, e.g. personal computer, kiosk, or the like; a monitoring device, e.g. sensor; actuator device, e.g. switch or servo; or the like. The RAN 104 may be a Long-Term Evolution (LTE), 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP), or other cellular or radio network. The core network 106 may be a mobility management entity (MME) or a Service General Packet Radio Service Support Node (SGSN).

[0028] The UE 102, of an example embodiment, may be configured with a power saving mode (PSM). The PSM may terminate or limit access stratum (AS) functions after a predetermined period of inactivity. A non-access stratum (NAS) layer signaling exchanging PSM timer may be used to determine when to enter the PSM. The UE 102 may enter the PSM by stopping all AS level functions including mobility related measurements and reselection. In PSM, the UE 102 may not be reachable by the RAN 104, e.g., the UE is not listening to a paging channel. The UE 102 may however initiate connection establishment with the RAN 104 at any time in which there is data to be transferred to the network. The UE 102 may enter the PSM in an instance in which PSM configuration conditions are satisfied, such as connection status, PSM timer satisfaction, e.g. PSM delay period, or the like. The PSM configuration may also include conditions in which the PSM will start a PSM timer to enter a PSM and/or conditions in which a PSMI indication may be sent to the RAN 14.

[0029] During active data communication the UE 102 may operate in a dedicated channel (CELL DCH) with the RAN 104. When active data communication with the RAN 104 conclude the UE 102 may enter a reduced power consumption radio resource control (RRC) connection, such as cell paging channel (CELL/URA PCH) or cell forwarding channel (CELL FACH). The UE 102 may start the PSM timer in response to entering the reduced power consumption RRC connection. The PSM timer may be a configured to count until a predetermined time value is satisfied, for example 10 seconds, or until the timer expires, e.g. countdown to 0 from 10 seconds. The initial PSM timer value may be 1, 5, 10, 30 or 60 seconds or any other time value.

[0030] In an example embodiment, the UE 102 may cause the transmission of a PSM indication (PSMI) to the RAN 104. The PSMI may be a signal connection release indication in an instance in which the RAN is 3GPP, e.g. universal terrestrial radio access (UTRAN), an power preference indication in an instance in which the RAN is LTE, e.g. Evolved -UTRAN (E-UTRAN), or other message. The PSMI may include one or more of the following: a PSM configuration, a PSM timer running indication, a PSM timer initial value, a PSM timer current value, an entering PSM indication, a leaving PSM indication, a PSM request, or the like. [0031] In an example embodiment, the UE 102 may cause the transmission of the PSMI in response to the UE 102 meeting at least a portion of the PSM configuration conditions, such as entering a reduced power consumption RRC connection, starting or satisfying the PSM timer, or the like. The PSMI may indicate the PSM configuration and the satisfaction of the PSM timer, e.g. the PSM timer has expired, connections status, such as the UE has entered a reduced power consumption RRC connection, or the like. In another example embodiment, the UE 102 may cause the transmission of the PSMI in conjunction with starting the PSM timer. The PSMI may include the PSM configuration and the PSM timer initial value. In another example embodiment, the UE 102 may start the PSM timer prior to sending the SCRI, but also prior to the PSM timer satisfaction the PSMI may include the PSM configuration, the PSM timer current and/or initial value.

[0032] Additionally or alternatively, the PSMI may be sent to the RAN 14 during the Radio resource control (RRC) connection establishment, during the RRC connection, in an RRC release phase.

[0033] In an example embodiment, the core network 106 may transmit a PSMI to the RAN 104. The PSMI transmitted by the core network 106 may include PSM configuration and/or PSM timer information for a UE 102. The PSM timer may be configured on the NAS layer between the core network 106 and the UE 102. The PSMI may also include an indication that the PSMI timer has been started, PSM timer current value, satisfaction of the PSM timer, or the like.

[0034] The RAN 104 may cause the transmission of a connection release command indication based on the PSM conditions. The RAN 104 may determine the UE 102 has satisfied at least a portion of the PSM configuration conditions based on receipt of the PSMI, in an instance in which the UE 102 PSM configuration directs sending the PSMI based upon satisfying one or more PSM configuration conditions, such as entering a reduced power consumption RCC connection, and/or starting or satisfying a PSM timer. Additionally or alternatively, the RAN 104 may cause the transmission of the release connection indication based on determining one or more of the PSM configuration conditions has been satisfied. For example, in an instance in which the RAN 104 receives the PSMI during a RRC connection of RRC connection establishment, the RAN may determine that a PSM configuration condition is satisfied, such as entering a reduced power consumption RRC connection with the UE 102, and transmit the release connection indication.

[0035] The connection release command indication may indicate that the UE 102 enters an Idle mode or a PSM. In response to receiving the release connection indication, the UE102 may immediately enter the PSM, in an instance in which the PSM timer has been satisfied and/or the connection release command indication indicated that the UE 102 enter PSM, if it satisfies the PSM configuration conditions. In another example

embodiment the UE 102 may wait to enter the PSM based on the PSM timer not being satisfied, e.g. the timer has not completed the count. In a further example embodiment the UE 102 PSM configuration may restart the PSM timer based on the connection release command indication, such as an enter Idle mode indication. The UE may enter PSM after the PSM timer is satisfied in the Idle mode, satisfying the PSM configuration condition. In another example embodiment, the UE may wait to enter PSM based on other PSM configuration conditions.

Example Apparatus

[0036] A UE 102 or RAN 104 may include or otherwise be associated with an apparatus 200 as shown in Figure 2. The apparatus, such as that shown in Figure 2, is specifically configured in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention to provide an indication of user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network. The apparatus may include or otherwise be in communication with a processor 202, a memory device 204, a communication interface 206, and a user interface 208. In some embodiments, the processor (and/or co-processors or any other processing circuitry assisting or otherwise associated with the processor) may be in communication with the memory device via a bus for passing information among components of the apparatus. The memory device may be non-transitory and may include, for example, one or more volatile and/or non-volatile memories. In other words, for example, the memory device may be an electronic storage device (for example, a computer readable storage medium) comprising gates configured to store data (for example, bits) that may be retrievable by a machine (for example, a computing device like the processor). The memory device may be configured to store information, data, content, applications, instructions, or the like for enabling the apparatus to carry out various functions in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention. For example, the memory device could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the processor. Additionally or alternatively, the memory device could be configured to store instructions for execution by the processor.

[0037] As noted above, the apparatus 200 may be embodied by UE 102 or RAN 104. However, in some embodiments, the apparatus may be embodied as a chip or chip set. In other words, the apparatus may comprise one or more physical packages (for example, chips) including materials, components and/or wires on a structural assembly (for example, a baseboard). The structural assembly may provide physical strength, conservation of size, and/or limitation of electrical interaction for component circuitry included thereon. The apparatus may therefore, in some cases, be configured to implement an embodiment of the present invention on a single chip or as a single "system on a chip." As such, in some cases, a chip or chipset may constitute means for performing one or more operations for providing the functionalities described herein.

[0038] The processor 202 may be embodied in a number of different ways. For example, the processor may be embodied as one or more of various hardware processing means such as a coprocessor, a microprocessor, a controller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a processing element with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other processing circuitry including integrated circuits such as, for example, an ASIC

(application specific integrated circuit), an FPGA (field programmable gate array), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a hardware accelerator, a special-purpose computer chip, or the like. As such, in some embodiments, the processor may include one or more processing cores configured to perform independently. A multi-core processor may enable multiprocessing within a single physical package. Additionally or alternatively, the processor may include one or more processors configured in tandem via the bus to enable independent execution of instructions, pipelining and/or multithreading.

[0039] In an example embodiment, the processor 202 may be configured to execute instructions stored in the memory device 204 or otherwise accessible to the processor. Alternatively or additionally, the processor may be configured to execute hard coded functionality. As such, whether configured by hardware or software methods, or by a combination thereof, the processor may represent an entity (for example, physically embodied in circuitry) capable of performing operations according to an embodiment of the present invention while configured accordingly. Thus, for example, when the processor is embodied as an ASIC, FPGA or the like, the processor may be specifically configured hardware for conducting the operations described herein. Alternatively, as another example, when the processor is embodied as an executor of software instructions, the instructions may specifically configure the processor to perform the algorithms and/or operations described herein when the instructions are executed. However, in some cases, the processor may be a processor of a specific device (for example, a mobile terminal or a fixed computing device) configured to employ an embodiment of the present invention by further configuration of the processor by instructions for performing the algorithms and/or operations described herein. The processor may include, among other things, a clock, an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and logic gates configured to support operation of the processor.

[0040] The apparatus 200 of an example embodiment may also include a

communication interface 206 that may be any means such as a device or circuitry embodied in either hardware or a combination of hardware and software that is configured to receive and/or transmit data from/to a communications device in communication with the apparatus, such as to facilitate communications with one or more user equipment 110, utility device, or the like. In this regard, the communication interface may include, for example, an antenna (or multiple antennas) and supporting hardware and/or software for enabling communications with a wireless communication network. Additionally or alternatively, the communication interface may include the circuitry for interacting with the antenna(s) to cause transmission of signals via the antenna(s) or to handle receipt of signals received via the antenna(s). In some environments, the communication interface may alternatively or also support wired communication. As such, for example, the communication interface may include a communication modem and/or other hardware and/or software for supporting communication via cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), universal serial bus (USB) or other mechanisms.

[0041] The apparatus 200 may also include a user interface 208 that may, in turn, be in communication with the processor 202 to provide output to the user and, in some embodiments, to receive an indication of a user input. As such, the user interface may include a display and, in some embodiments, may also include a keyboard, a mouse, a joystick, a touch screen, touch areas, soft keys, one or more microphones, a plurality of speakers, or other input/output mechanisms. In one embodiment, the processor may comprise user interface circuitry configured to control at least some functions of one or more user interface elements such as a display and, in some embodiments, a plurality of speakers, a ringer, one or more microphones and/or the like. The processor and/or user interface circuitry comprising the processor may be configured to control one or more functions of one or more user interface elements through computer program instructions (for example, software and/or firmware) stored on a memory accessible to the processor (for example, memory device 204, and/or the like).

Example Process for Transmitting a Power Saving Mode Indication

[0042] Referring now to Figure 3, the operations performed, such as by the apparatus 200 of Figure 2, for providing an indication of a user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network are depicted. As shown in block 302 of Figure 3, the apparatus 200 may include means, such as a processor 202, a communications interface 206, or the like, configured to determine the apparatus 200 has entered a reduced power consumption radio resource control connection. During data communication the communications interface 206 may operate in a dedicated channel (CELL DCH) with the RAN 104. When active communication with the RAN 104 conclude the communications interface 206 may enter a reduced power consumption radio resource control (RRC) connection, such as cell paging channel (CELL/URA PCH) or cell forwarding channel (CELL FACH). The processor 202 may receive an RRC connection status indication, from the communications interface 206 for each change in RRC connections status between the communications interface 206 and the RAN 104. [0043] As shown in block 304 of Figure 3, the apparatus 200 may include means, such as a processor 202, or the like, configured to start a PSM timer. The processor 202 may start the PSM timer in response to entering the reduced power consumption radio resource control connection. The PSM timer may be a configured to count until a predetermined time value is satisfied, for example 10 seconds, or until the timer expires, e.g. countdown to 0 from 10 seconds. The initial PSM timer value may be 1, 5, 10, 30 or 60 seconds or any other time value.

[0044] As shown at block 306, of Figure 3, the apparatus 200 may include means, such as a processor 202, communications interface 206, or the like, configured to cause the transmission of a PSM indication (PSMI). The processor 202 may cause the transmission of a PSMI, using the communications interface 206, to the RAN 104. By way of example, the PSMI may be a signal connection release indication in an instance in which the RAN is 3GPP, e.g. universal terrestrial radio access (UTRAN), an power preference indication in an instance in which the RAN is LTE, e.g. Evolved -UTRAN (E-UTRAN), or other message. The PMSI may include one or more of the following PSM configurations: PSM timer running indication, PSM timer initial value, PSM current value, entering PSM, leaving PSM, PSM request, or the like.

[0045] In an example embodiment, the processor 202 may cause the transmission of the PSMI in response to the PSM timer satisfying the predetermined time value. The PSMI may indicate the PSM configuration and the satisfaction of the PSM timer, e.g. the PSM timer has expired. In another example embodiment, the processor 202 may cause the transmission of the PSMI in conjunction with starting the PSM timer. The PSMI may include the PSM configuration and the PSM timer initial value. In another example embodiment, the processor may start the PSM timer prior to sending the SCRI, but also prior to the PSM timer satisfaction the PSMI may include the PSM configuration, the PSM timer current and/or initial value.

[0046] Additionally or alternatively, the PSMI may be transmitted to the RAN 14 during the R C connection establishment, during the RRC connection, in an RRC release phase, or the like.

[0047] In an example embodiment, the core network 106 may transmit a PSMI to the RAN 104. The PSMI transmitted by the core network 106 may include PSM configuration and/or PSM timer information for a UE 102. The PSM timer may be configured on the NAS layer between the core network 106 and the UE 102. The PSMI may also include an indication that the PSMI timer has been started, PSM timer current value, satisfaction of the PSM timer, or the like.

[0048] As shown at block 308 of Figure 3, the apparatus 200 may include means, such as the processor 202, communications interface 206, or the like, configured to receive a connection release command indication. The processor 202 may receive a connection release command indication from the communications interface 206, which in turn receives the connection release command indication from the RAN 104. The connection release may indicate that the apparatus 200 enters an Idle mode or a PSM. The connection release command indication may be received in response to the apparatus 200 meeting at least a portion of the PSM configuration conditions, such as entering a reduced power

consumption RRC connection, starting or satisfying the PSM timer, or the like.

[0049] As shown at block 310 of Figure 3, the apparatus 200 may include means, such as a processor 202, or the like, configured to enter a PSM based on satisfying the PSM configuration conditions. In response to receiving the release connection indication, the processor 202 may cause the apparatus 200 to immediately enter the PSM, in an instance in which the PSM timer has been satisfied and/or the connection release command indication indicated that the apparatus enter PSM, if it satisfies the PSM configuration conditions. In another example embodiment, the processor 202 may wait to enter the PSM based on the PSM timer not being satisfied, e.g. the timer has not completed the count. In a further example embodiment, the PSM configuration may cause the processor 202 to restart the PSM timer based on the connection release command indication, such as an indication that the Idle mode has been entered. The processor 202 may enter PSM after the PSM timer is satisfied in the Idle mode, satisfying the PSM configuration condition. In another example embodiment, the processor 202 may wait to enter PSM based on other PSM configuration conditions. Example Process for Transmitting a Connection Release Command Indication in Response to a Power Saving Mode Indication

[0050] Referring now to Figure 4, the operations performed, such as by the apparatus 200 of Figure 2, for providing an indication of a user equipment power saving mode configuration to a network are depicted. As shown in block 402 of Figure 4, the apparatus 200 may include means, such as a processor 202, a communications interface 206, or the like, configured to receive a power saving mode indication (PSMI). The processor 202 may receive a PSMI from the communications interface 206, which in turn receives the PSMI from a UE 102. The PSMI may be included in a signal connection release indication in an instance in which the RAN is 3GPP, e.g. universal terrestrial radio access (UTRAN), a power preference indication in an instance in which the RAN is LTE, e.g. Evolved -

UTRAN (E -UTRAN), or other message. The PMSI may include one or more of the following: PSM configuration, PSM timer running indication, PSM timer initial value,

PSM current value, entering PSM, leaving PSM, PSM request, or the like.

[0051] In an example embodiment, the processor 202 may receive the PSMI in response to the UE 102 PSM timer satisfying the predetermined time value. The PSMI may indicate the PSM configuration and the satisfaction of the PSM timer, e.g. the PSM timer has expired. In another example embodiment, the processor 202 may receive the PSMI in conjunction with the UE 102 starting the PSM timer. The PSMI may include the PSM configuration and the PSM timer initial value. In another example embodiment, the UE 102 may start the PSM timer prior to sending the SCRI, but also prior to the PSM timer satisfaction the PSMI may include the PSM configuration, the PSM timer current and/or initial value.

[0052] Additionally or alternatively, the PSMI may be received by the apparatus 200 during the RRC connection establishment, during the RRC connection, in an RRC release phase, or the like.

[0053] As shown in block 404 of Figure 4, the apparatus 200 may include means such as a processor 202, a communications interface 206, or the like, configured to cause the transmission of a connection release command indication based on the PSM configuration. The processor 202 may cause the communications interface to transmit the connection release command indication based on the UE 102 satisfying at least a portion of the PSM configuration conditions. The connection release command indication may indicate that the UE 102 enter an Idle mode or a PSM. The PMSI may be received, in operation 402, in response to the apparatus 200 satisfying at least a portion of the PSM configuration conditions, such as entering a reduced power consumption RRC connection, starting or satisfying the PSM timer, or the like. The processor 202 may determine the UE 102 has satisfied at least a portion of the PSM configuration conditions based on receipt of the PSMI, in an instance in which the UE 102 PSM configuration directs sending the PSMI based upon satisfying one or more PSM configuration conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 202 may cause the transmission of the release connection indication based on the processor determining one or more of the PSM configuration conditions has been satisfied. In an instance in which the apparatus receives the PSMI during a RRC connection of RRC connection establishment, the processor 202 may determine that a PSM configuration condition is satisfied, such as entering a reduced power consumption RRC connection with the UE 102, and transmit the release connection indication.

[0054] The UE 102 indicating the PSM configuration to the RAN 104 may allow the UE to enter a PSM which may conserve more battery energy than traditional reduced power consumption RRC connections, which maintain a data connection with the UE. The decreased battery consumption may allow for the application of a life time battery, e.g. a battery which would be installed and used for the life of the UE without replacement or recharging. Additionally, the RAN 104 having access to the PSM configuration allows for improved network control and knowledge of the UE 102 modes and behavior.

[0055] As described above, Figures 3and 4 illustrate flowcharts of an apparatus 200, method, and computer program product according to example embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, may be implemented by various means, such as hardware, firmware, processor, circuitry, and/or other communication devices associated with execution of software including one or more computer program instructions. For example, one or more of the procedures described above may be embodied by computer program instructions. In this regard, the computer program instructions which embody the procedures described above may be stored by a memory device 204 of an apparatus employing an embodiment of the present invention and executed by a processor 202 of the apparatus. As will be appreciated, any such computer program instructions may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus (for example, hardware) to produce a machine, such that the resulting computer or other programmable apparatus implements the functions specified in the flowchart blocks. These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable memory that may direct a computer or other programmable apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufacture the execution of which implements the function specified in the fiowchart blocks. The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide operations for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart blocks.

[0056] Accordingly, blocks of the flowcharts support combinations of means for performing the specified functions and combinations of operations for performing the specified functions for performing the specified functions. It will also be understood that one or more blocks of the flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based computer systems which perform the specified functions, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0057] In some embodiments, certain ones of the operations above may be modified or further amplified. Furthermore, in some embodiments, additional optional operations may be included, such as illustrated by the dashed outline of block 302 and 304 in Figure 3. Modifications, additions, or amplifications to the operations above may be performed in any order and in any combination.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, although the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings describe example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and/or functions, it should be appreciated that different combinations of elements and/or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements and/or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated as may be set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

THAT WHICH IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method comprising:

causing the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI), from a user equipment, wherein the PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration;

receiving a connection release indication; and

entering a power saving mode in response to the connection release indication or the satisfaction of power saving mode configuration conditions.

2. The method of Claim 1, wherein the PSMI further comprises a power saving mode timer value.

3. The method of Claim 1, wherein the PSMI further comprises an elapsed power saving mode timer value and an initial power saving mode timer value.

4. The method of any one of Claims 1 to 3 further comprising:

determining a user equipment has entered a reduce power consumption radio resource control connection.

5. The method of Claim 1, wherein the PSMI comprises a signaling connection release indication or a power preference indication.

6. The method of any one of Claims 1 to 5 further comprising:

starting a power saving mode timer; and

wherein power saving mode configuration conditions comprise satisfaction of the power saving mode timer.

7. A method comprising:

receiving a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment; and

causing the transmission of a connection release indication based on the user equipment satisfying at least one power saving mode configuration condition.

8. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and computer program code configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: cause the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI), from a user equipment, wherein the PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration;

receive a connection release indication; and

enter a power saving mode in response to the connection release indication or the satisfaction of power saving mode configuration conditions.

9. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein the PSMI further comprises a power saving mode timer value.

10. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein the PSMI further comprises an elapsed power saving mode timer value and an initial power saving mode timer value.

11. The apparatus of any one of Claims 8 to 10, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are further configured to: determine a user equipment has entered a reduce power consumption radio resource control connection.

12. The apparatus of Claim 8, wherein the PSMI comprises a signaling connection release indication or a power preference indication.

13. The apparatus of any one of Claims 8 to 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are further configured to: start a power saving mode timer; and wherein power saving mode configuration conditions comprise satisfaction of the power saving mode timer.

14. An apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and computer program code configured to, with the processor, cause the apparatus to at least: receive a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment; and

cause the transmission of a connection release indication based on the user equipment satisfying at least one power saving mode configuration condition.

15. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program portions stored therein, the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions configured to: cause the transmission of a power saving mode indication (PSMI), from a user equipment, wherein the PSMI comprises an indication of the power saving mode configuration;

receive a connection release indication; and

16. The computer program product of Claim 15, wherein the PSMI further comprises a power saving mode timer value.

17. The computer program product of Claim 15, wherein the PSMI further comprises an elapsed power saving mode timer value and an initial power saving mode timer value.

18. The computer program product of any one of Claims 15 to 17, wherein the computer- executable program code portions further comprise program code instructions configured to: determine a user equipment has entered a reduce power consumption radio resource control connection.

19. The computer program product of Claim 15, wherein the PSMI comprises a signaling connection release indication or a power preference indication.

20. The computer program product of any one of Claims 15 to 19, wherein the computer- executable program code portions further comprise program code instructions configured to: start a power saving mode timer; and

21. A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program portions stored therein, the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions configured to: receive a power saving mode indication comprising the power saving mode configuration of a user equipment; and