Carbon smart cell reselection

Abstract

A method of cell reselection includes providing a plurality of cells and giving a first priority to a first group of cells of the plurality of cells. The first set of cells has an ecological rating. According to the method, the balance is sought between ensuring reliable network performance and promoting environmental protection practice through the optimal signal quality, so that the method becomes a feasible solution for seeking to reduce environmental influence while keeping high-quality service for a network operator.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 501,154, filed May 10, 2023. Additionally, this application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 501,689, filed May 12, 2023. The contents of these applications are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to wireless communication, and more particularly, to cell selection in wireless communication. Background Technology

[0004] Energy (e.g., electricity) can be tagged with carbon intensity based on where, when, and how it is produced and consumed. Carbon intensity is a key metric for assessing the environmental impact of various activities. For example, solar energy may have a lower carbon intensity in most cases, while fossil fuels may have a higher carbon intensity. With increasing environmental awareness, the question of how to design, develop, deploy, and operate “green” wireless networks is becoming increasingly important.

[0005] Electricity is generated from energy sources with varying carbon emission levels (e.g., natural gas, coal, wind power). Particularly due to the high variability and unpredictability of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar energy), the carbon intensity of the power grid (i.e., the average carbon emissions per unit of energy consumed) varies significantly across time and location. Therefore, to ensure the reduction of carbon emissions in computing and / or communication networks, it is imperative to design a signaling framework or scheduling strategy that considers the temporal and spatial dimensions of energy sources.

[0006] The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) industry is one of the largest consumers of electricity. Currently estimated at 2-3% of global electricity consumption, this figure is projected to increase to 8-21% by 2030. Therefore, the ICT industry not only needs to consider reducing its electricity consumption but also transitioning to cleaner energy sources. However, quantifying and subsequently reducing energy consumption is not a simple task.

[0007] For example, web-based mobile applications have many contributors: 1) the power consumption of the mobile devices running the applications; 2) the infrastructure that transmits application messages to base stations via radio links; 3) base stations shared by multiple operators and the fiber optic cables connecting these base stations to the internet backbone networks owned by various internet service providers; and 4) the data centers that run the application logic on cloud platforms shared by different companies. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the combined environmental impact of these components.

[0008] In the software industry, information on green factors is already being provided. For example, the Carbonaware SDK helps developers build software that focuses on its environmental impact, particularly its carbon footprint. The Carbonaware SDK enables developers to create “carbon-sense” applications. These applications can adjust their behavior based on the carbon intensity of the power grid. When the grid is powered by cleaner energy sources, such as wind or solar, they can perform more intensive tasks and reduce load during periods of higher emissions. They also optimize resource utilization by choosing to operate in areas with lower carbon footprints, potentially by leveraging cloud computing resources in cleaner energy regions. The SDK provides features such as carbon emission measurement, data collection, and reporting. By making software more energy-efficient and potentially reducing its environmental impact, developers can help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the technology industry.

[0009] In wireless communications, standards developed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) provide models for the industry to follow. However, understanding energy consumption alone is insufficient. A measure of carbon intensity is also needed to determine the carbon footprint of wireless network components, including both hardware and software, when they are put into use. Summary of the Invention

[0010] One embodiment provides a method for cell reselection. The method includes providing a plurality of cells and assigning a first group of cells from the plurality of cells a first priority. This first group of cells has an Eco-Rating.

[0011] One embodiment provides another method for cell reselection. The method includes providing a plurality of cells and assigning a first group of cells from the plurality of cells a first priority. The ecological rating of the first group of cells from the plurality of cells is less than or equal to an ecological rating threshold.

[0012] These, and other objectives of the invention, will undoubtedly become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with various illustrations and figures. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1 An exemplary scenario of a communication system according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 2 A block diagram of a user equipment (UE) and a network entity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5An example of carbon smart network selection that incorporates ecological ratings is shown.

[0016] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 An example of carbon smart network reselection incorporating ecological ratings is shown.

[0017] Figure 9 An example of carbon-smart community selection that incorporates ecological ratings is shown.

[0018] Figure 10 Another embodiment of carbon-smart community selection that incorporates ecological ratings is shown.

[0019] Figure 11 An example of a carbon-smart quality of service (QoS) mechanism that incorporates ecological rating is shown.

[0020] Figure 12 Another embodiment of a carbon-smart quality of service (QoS) mechanism that incorporates ecological ratings is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description in order to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure this disclosure. It should be understood that this disclosure is primarily described in the context of 3GPP-specified wireless networks (e.g., 4G and 5G), but may also be implemented in other forms of cellular or non-cellular wireless networks.

[0022] Introduction and Definition

[0023] Specifically, the following technologies, devices, and systems can be applied to various wireless multiple access systems. Examples of multiple access systems include Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) systems, Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) systems, Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) systems, Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) systems, Single-Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) systems, Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (C-FDMA) systems, and Multi-Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (MC-FDMA) systems. CDMA can be implemented using wireless technologies such as Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA) or CDMA2000. TDMA can be implemented using wireless technologies such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Universal Packet Radio Service (GPRS), or Enhanced Data Rate GSM Evolution (EDGE). OFDMA can be implemented using wireless technologies such as IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, or Evolved UTRA (E-UTRA). UTRA is part of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Long Term Evolution (LTE) is part of the Evolved UMTS (E-UMTS) using E-UTRA. 3GPP LTE uses OFDMA in the downlink (DL) and SC-FDMA in the uplink (UL). The evolution of 3GPP LTE includes LTE-A (Advanced), LTE-A Pro, and / or 5G New Radio (NR).

[0024] For ease of description, the implementation of this specification is primarily described within 3GPP-related wireless communication systems. However, the technical features of this specification are not limited to this. For example, the following describes in detail mobile communication systems based on 3GPP-related wireless communication systems, but aspects of this specification that are not limited to 3GPP-related wireless communication systems can be applied to other wireless communication systems.

[0025] As described in 3GPP, different wireless communication system standards and protocols can use various Radio Access Networks (RANs) to communicate between RAN base stations (sometimes referred to as RAN nodes, network nodes, or simply nodes) and wireless communication devices called User Equipment (UEs). 3GPP RANs can include, for example, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rate GSM Evolution (EDGE) RAN (GERAN), Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN), and / or Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN). A RAN can include base stations (cell sites), Radio Equipment Controllers (RECs), and fronthaul and backhaul networks for transmitting data between base stations, RECs, and the core network.

[0026] The RAN can include one or more access nodes, which may be referred to as base stations, NodeBs, evolved NodeBs (eNBs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs), RAN nodes, controllers, transport receiver points (TRPs), etc., and may include ground stations (e.g., terrestrial access points) or satellite stations providing signal coverage, covering a geographic area (e.g., a cell). The RAN can include one or more RAN nodes for providing macrocells, microcells, nanocells, or other types of cells. Macrocells can cover relatively large geographic areas (e.g., a radius of several kilometers) and may allow unrestricted access for UEs with service subscriptions. Microcells can cover relatively small geographic areas and may allow unrestricted access for UEs with service subscriptions. Nanocells can cover relatively small geographic areas (e.g., a household) and may allow restricted access for UEs associated with the nanocell (e.g., UEs in a closed subscriber group (CSG), UEs of home users, etc.).

[0027] The base stations used by a RAN can correspond to that RAN. An example of an E-UTRAN base station is an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) Node B (also known as an evolved Node B, enhanced Node B, eNodeB, or eNB). Another example of an NG-RAN base station is a Next Generation Node B (also known as a gNodeB or gNB).

[0028] The RAN provides its communication services to external entities through its connection to the core network (CN). For example, E-UTRAN can utilize the evolved packet core.

[0029] Each RAN can use one or more Radio Access Technologies (RATs) to communicate between the base station and the UE. For example, GERAN implements GSM and / or EDGE RAT, UTRAN implements UMTS RAT or other 3GPP RATs, E-UTRAN implements LTE RAT (sometimes called LTE), and NG-RAN implements NR RAT (sometimes called 5G RAT, 5GNR RAT, or NR). In some deployments, E-UTRAN may also implement NR RAT. In some deployments, NG-RAN may also implement LTE RAT.

[0030] For terms and technologies not specifically described, please refer to wireless communication standard documents published prior to this specification (e.g., 3GPP specifications).

[0031] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "Eco-Rating" is used to describe carbon intensity or other terms that measure the "greenness" of energy. Depending on the context, an eco-rating can apply to both the total amount and the ratio of environmental impacts (i.e., a measure relative to another metric).

[0032] More specifically, an eco-rating can be defined as a factor based on environmental impact calculations, such as carbon efficiency, carbon emissions, and / or carbon footprint related to energy consumption. Based on the concept of ratios, eco-ratings can also be further defined as per service, per subscriber, per user device (UE), per unit (e.g., per byte) of data transmission / reception, per network element (e.g., per wireless base station), per core network element, per application server, etc.

[0033] In other words, a high ecological rating can mean "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which is equivalent to less environmental impact and higher sustainability, such as lower carbon intensity, lower carbon efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and a lower carbon footprint. Conversely, a low ecological rating can mean "less green," which is equivalent to more environmental impact and lower sustainability, such as higher carbon intensity, higher carbon efficiency, higher carbon emissions, and a higher carbon footprint.

[0034] Furthermore, an "eco-rating" can indicate energy efficiency. High energy efficiency can indicate "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which is equivalent to less environmental impact. Conversely, low energy efficiency can indicate "less green," which is equivalent to more environmental impact.

[0035] Furthermore, "eco-rating" can indicate energy consumption. High energy consumption can indicate "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which is equivalent to less environmental impact. Conversely, low energy consumption can indicate "less green," which is equivalent to more environmental impact.

[0036] Furthermore, the "ecological rating" can represent a green factor. A high green factor indicates "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which is equivalent to less environmental impact. Conversely, a low green factor indicates "less green," which is equivalent to environmental impact.

[0037] The terms "carbon-intelligent" or "carbon-aware" can refer to a method aimed at reducing environmental impact, i.e., achieving a high ecological rating. This can typically be achieved, for example, by implementing more renewable and / or clean energy sources.

[0038] In this specification, the term "network" may include, but is not limited to, Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMN), Standalone Non-Public Networks (SNPN), and Public Network Integrated Non-Public Networks (PNI-NPN). Ecological rating information or ecological rating thresholds (or targets) for candidate networks can be obtained through user equipment configuration, upper layers, user input, broadcast information, and / or signaling (NAS, RRC, or L2 / L1) messages from the serving network or home network.

[0039] User equipment configuration / parameters can be (pre)configured or (pre)stored in the UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) or Non-volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM). Optionally, user equipment configuration can be updated by the network and / or controlled by the home network.

[0040] In this specification, ecosystem rating information can be defined as per frequency, per frequency group, per cell, per cell group, per access technology, per slice or service type, per traffic type or QoS flow, per traffic descriptor or routing descriptor, and / or per group ID.

[0041] Furthermore, ecological rating information can be associated with temporal information, including temporal validity information to indicate when the ecological rating information is valid, and / or location information, including location validity information to indicate where the ecological rating information is valid. In other words, ecological rating information may only be valid within a specific time interval and / or a specific location area.

[0042] Figure 1 An exemplary scenario of a communication system 100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is described. The communication system 100 includes networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150. Each of networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 can be a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), a Stand-alone Non-public Network (SNPN), or a Public Network Integrated Non-public Network (PNI-NPN). The PLMN can be a home PLMN (HPLMN), a visited PLMN (VPLMN), or another type of PLMN.

[0043] Network 110 may include a control plane, user plane functionality (UPF), and applications that provide various services through communication with user equipment (UE), such as UE 101. Radio access network (RAN) 113 provides radio access to UE 101 via radio access technology (RAT). Base station gNB 112 belongs to RAN 113. The control plane includes various functions such as access and mobility management functions (AMF), session management functions (SMF), authentication server functions (AUSF), unified data management (UDM), and policy control functions (PCF). These network functions cooperate to provide connectivity, mobility management, security, and data processing in the core network. Network 120 may include a control plane, user plane functionality (UPF), and applications that provide various services through communication with user equipment (UE), such as UE 101. Base station gNB 112 belongs to RAN 123. RAN 123 provides radio access to UE 101 via RAT. The control plane includes various functions such as AMF, SMF, AUSF, UDM, and PCF. The control plane in network 110 communicates with gNB 112. Similarly, network 130 may include a control plane, user plane functions (UPF), and applications that provide various services through communication with user equipment (UE), such as UE 101. Base station gNB 112 belongs to RAN 113. RAN 113 provides radio access to UE 101 via RAT. The control plane includes various functions such as AMF, SMF, AUSF, UDM, and PCF. The control plane in network 110 communicates with gNB 112. Furthermore, UE 101 may be equipped with one or more radio frequency (RF) transceivers.

[0044] Similarly, networks 140 and 150 have essentially the same architecture as networks 110, 120, or 130. Therefore, they will not be described again here.

[0045] Figure 2A block diagram illustrating a user equipment (UE) 201 and a network entity 211 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is provided. UE 201 may be an implementation of UE 101. Network entity 211 may be a base station (e.g., gNB 112) combined with Access and Mobility Management Functions (AMF). Network entity 211 includes an antenna 215, a radio frequency (RF) transceiver module 214, a processor 213, a memory 212, and control function modules and circuitry 290. The antenna 215 is used to transmit and receive radio signals. The RF transceiver module 214 is coupled to the antenna 215, receives RF signals from the antenna 215, converts the RF signals into baseband signals, and transmits the baseband signals to the processor 213. The RF transceiver module 214 receives baseband signals from the processor 213, converts the baseband signals into RF signals, and transmits the RF signals to the antenna 215. The processor 213 processes the received baseband signals and invokes different function modules to execute functional features in network entity 211. Memory 212 stores program instructions and data 220 to control the operation of network entity 211. Control function modules and circuits 290 include registration circuitry 231 for handling registration and mobility processes, session management circuitry 232 for handling session management functions, and configuration and control circuitry (CONFIG / CTL) 233 for adjusting various parameters to configure and control user equipment (e.g., UE 201).

[0046] Similarly, UE 201 includes memory 202, processor 203, and radio frequency (RF) transceiver module 204 coupled to antenna 205. RF transceiver module 204 receives RF signals from antenna 205, converts the RF signals into baseband signals, and sends the baseband signals to processor 203. RF transceiver module 204 also converts baseband signals received from processor 203 into RF signals and sends the RF signals to antenna 205. Processor 203 processes the received baseband signals and invokes different functional modules and circuits to execute functional features in UE 201. Memory 202 stores data and program instructions 210, which are executed by processor 203 to control the operation of UE 201.

[0047] UE 201 also includes a set of functional modules and control circuitry to perform the functional tasks of UE 201. Protocol stack 260 includes a Non-Access-Stratum (NAS) layer for communicating with AMF entities coupled to the core network; a Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer for higher-level configuration and control; a Packet Data Convergence Protocol / Radio Link Control (PDCP / RLC) layer; a Media Access Control (MAC) layer; and a Physical (PHY) layer. System modules and circuitry 270 can be implemented and configured through software, firmware, hardware, and / or combinations thereof. When functional modules and circuitry are executed by a processor via program instructions in memory 202, they cooperate with each other to enable UE 201 to perform implementations and functional tasks and features within the network. For example, system module and circuit 270 includes registration circuit 221 for performing registration and mobility procedures with the network, network and cell selection circuit 222 for performing network and cell selection, PLMN / PNI-NPN / SNPN information maintenance circuit 223 (wherein the information may also originate from signaling) for processing the addition, removal, and reset of PLMN / PNI-NPN / SNPN information in SIM / USIM 225 and / or memory 202, and configuration and control circuit 224 for processing configuration and control parameters. It should be noted that information related to network selection and registration, such as HPLMN, operator-controlled PLMN / SNPN selector lists, and user-controlled PLMN / SNPN selector lists, can be stored in SIM / USIM 225 and / or memory 202.

[0048] Carbon Smart Network Selection and Reselection

[0049] Network (e.g., PLMN) selection refers to the process by which a UE (such as a mobile phone or tablet) selects a specific cellular network to connect to. This network is identified by a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) identifier. For the UE, selecting a network based on a set of rules and priorities is crucial. The selection can be based on predefined priorities as well as other factors such as signal strength, roaming protocols, and user preferences.

[0050] As described in the current 3GPP technical specifications, the exemplary priority order of networks (e.g., networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150) can be an automatic mode candidate priority order. That is, the mobile station (MS) or user equipment (UE) selects and attempts to register on a PLMN / access technology combination in the following order: 1) HPLMN (if the EHPLMN list is absent or empty) or the highest priority available EHPLMN (if the EHPLMN list exists); 2) each PLMN / access technology combination in the "User-Controlled PLMN Selector & Access Technology" data file in the SIM (in priority order); 3) each PLMN / access technology combination in the "Operator-Controlled PLMN Selector & Access Technology" data file in the SIM (in priority order); 4) other PLMN / access technology combinations with high-quality received signals (in random order); 5) other PLMN / access technology combinations (in descending order of signal quality).

[0051] In other words, the UE searches for available PLMNs and checks if they match the priority list on the USIM. Only available and permitted PLMNs from the priority list are considered for selection. The highest priority PLMN / access technology combination (from the SIM card) available and permitted is selected. Then, if the combination in the highest priority list is not available, the UE checks the next available and permitted combination in the list. This process continues until a suitable PLMN is found, or no further options are available.

[0052] In another example of automatic network selection, the UE selects and attempts to register on available and permitted SNPNs in the following order:

[0053] 1) The last independent non-public network (SNPN) registered by the user equipment (UE) (if available); 2) The subscribed SNPN, identified by the Public Land Mobile Network ID (PLMN ID) and Network Identifier (NID) of the UE with a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and credentials; 3) If the UE supports access to the SNPN using credentials of a Credentials Holder (CH), the UE continues to select and attempt to register on available and permitted SNPNs that support access using credentials holder credentials in the following order: i) SNPNs in the user-controlled priority SNPN list (in priority order); ii) SNPNs in the credentials holder-controlled priority SNPN list (in priority order); iii) SNPNs of GINs in the credentials holder-controlled priority Network Selection Group ID (GIN) list (in priority order); 4) SNPNs that indicate the UE is allowed to attempt to register on if the UE has not explicitly configured the selected SNPN, i.e., the broadcast NID or GIN is not in the credentials holder-controlled priority SNPN / GIN list in the UE.

[0054] In other words, the UE searches for available SNPNs and checks if they match the priority list. Only available and allowed SNPNs from the priority list are considered for selection. The highest priority available and allowed SNPN is selected. Then, if no available SNPN is found in the highest priority list, the UE moves down the list and checks the next available and allowed SNPN. This process continues until a suitable SNPN is found, or there are no further options.

[0055] It should be noted that the combination of PLMN ID and Network Identifier (NID) identifies an SNPN. Network identifiers support two allocation models. In the self-allocation model, the network identifier is chosen separately by the SNPN at deployment time (and therefore may not be unique), but uses a different numbering space than the coordinated allocation network identifier. In the coordinated allocation model, the network identifier is allocated using one of two options: 1) the network identifier is assigned as globally unique, independent of the PLMN ID used; or 2) the network identifier is assigned as a globally unique combination of the network identifier and the PLMN ID. Network Selection Group ID (GIN) also supports two allocation models. In the self-allocation model, the Network Selection Group ID is chosen separately and therefore may not be unique. In the coordinated allocation model, the Network Selection Group ID uses a combination of PLMN ID and network identifier and is allocated using one of two options: 1) the Network Selection Group ID is assigned as globally unique (e.g., using an IANA Private Enterprise Number) independent of the PLMN ID used; or 2) the Network Selection Group ID is assigned as a globally unique combination of the network identifier and the PLMN ID.

[0056] Based on existing community selection and reselection procedures, this disclosure introduces carbon-smart network selection. Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 An embodiment of carbon-smart network selection incorporating ecological ratings is illustrated. In this diagram, network 110 has priority 1 (i.e., highest priority); network 120 has priority 2; network 130 has priority 3; network 140 has priority 4; and network 150 has priority 5 (i.e., lowest priority), according to the automatic mode candidate priority order specified by 3GPP. Furthermore, each network is also labeled with an ecological rating. For example, network 110 has an ecological rating of 10; network 120 has 60; network 130 has an ecological rating of 70; network 140 has an ecological rating of 80; and network 150 has an ecological rating of 20.

[0057] By incorporating the concept of renewable energy, networks (i.e., networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150) may have the same or different ecological ratings. For example, some networks use more renewable (green) energy, while others use more non-renewable (i.e., grey energy, grid electricity) energy. Renewable energy can be an option for each network because its supply is highly variable and unpredictable. Conversely, non-renewable energy (i.e., grey energy, grid electricity) is stable but produces more carbon emissions. In one example, a network could use 100% renewable energy, 90% renewable energy, 80% renewable energy, or even 0% renewable energy. In another example, a network could use 90% renewable energy at 9 a.m. and only 10% renewable energy at 3 p.m.

[0058] exist Figure 3 In the embodiment, when UE 101 does not consider ecological rating in network selection, UE 101 will prefer networks 110, 120, 130, 140 and 150 according to its original priority. In other words, network 110 is the highest priority network, while network 150 is the lowest priority network.

[0059] exist Figure 4 In the embodiment, when UE 101 considers ecological ratings in network selection, UE 101 can prefer networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 based on their ecological ratings. Therefore, network 140 with an ecological rating of 80 (i.e., the highest ecological rating) will be the most preferred network, while network 110 with an ecological rating of 10 (i.e., the lowest ecological rating) will be the least preferred network. Specifically, UE 101 can prefer or prioritize networks with higher ecological ratings over those with lower ecological ratings. This network selection method is considered carbon-smart because it can optimize carbon emissions or footprint to some extent.

[0060] exist Figure 5 In this embodiment, networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 are divided into two groups based on an ecological rating threshold (e.g., 50). For example, if a network's ecological rating is greater than (or equal to) the ecological rating threshold, user equipment (UE) 101 can select that network. If multiple networks have ecological ratings greater than (or equal to) the ecological rating threshold, UE 101 can select the network with the highest priority from among the networks exceeding the threshold. If no network meets the ecological rating threshold, UE 101 can repeat the network selection process without considering the ecological rating threshold. In this case, UE 101 will select the network with the highest original priority.

[0061] In other words, the UE (e.g., UE 101) prioritizes or gives preference to networks with an ecological rating greater than (or equal to) the ecological rating threshold, rather than networks with an ecological rating less than the ecological rating threshold. Among the networks with an ecological rating greater than (or equal to) the ecological rating threshold, these networks (e.g., networks 120, 130, and 140) are further sorted according to their original priority order. Among the networks with an ecological rating less than the ecological rating threshold, these networks (e.g., networks 110 and 150) are also sorted according to their original priority order.

[0062] It should be noted that in the above embodiments, the UE (e.g., UE 101) may preferentially select or prioritize the network in the following situations: 1) the UE is in automatic network selection mode; 2) the UE supports "carbon-aware network selection"; 3) the UE is configured to use "carbon-aware network selection" in the mobile device (ME); and / or 4) "carbon-aware network selection" is configured in the UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM).

[0063] In the case of manual network selection, if the user triggers the manual network selection mode, UE 101 will indicate any available networks to the user and indicate the ecological rating of each available network, and / or whether the ecological rating of the available network is higher than, equal to or lower than the ecological rating threshold.

[0064] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 An embodiment of carbon-smart network reselection incorporating ecological ratings is illustrated. When UE 101 reselects a network from one or more networks (e.g., networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150), UE 101 can consider ecological ratings during the reselection process. UE 101 can perform the network selection process periodically, and the network selection process can consider all available networks.

[0065] exist Figure 6 In this embodiment, UE 101 initially registers with network 140. During periodic network selection, UE 101 can reselect a higher-priority target network (i.e., network 130) based on the original priority order. Specifically, the ecosystem ratings of both the target network and the originally registered network are greater than (or equal to) the ecosystem rating threshold (i.e., network 130). In other words, if the ecosystem rating of the target network is greater than (or equal to) the ecosystem rating threshold, UE 101 will reselect a higher-priority network based on the original priority order.

[0066] exist Figure 7 In this embodiment, UE 101 initially connects to network 140. During periodic network selection, UE 101 can reselect a higher-priority target network (i.e., network 140) based on the original priority order. Specifically, the target network's ecosystem rating is greater than (or equal to) the ecosystem rating threshold (i.e., network 140), but the original registered network's ecosystem rating is less than the ecosystem rating threshold. In other words, if the target network's ecosystem rating is greater than (or equal to) the ecosystem rating threshold, and the original registered network's ecosystem rating is less than the ecosystem rating threshold, UE 101 will reselect a higher-priority network (based on the original priority order).

[0067] exist Figure 8In this embodiment, UE 101 can reselect a target network (i.e., network 110) with a higher priority based on the original priority order. Specifically, the ecological ratings of both the target network and the original registered network are less than the ecological rating threshold. In other words, if no network meets the ecological rating threshold, UE 101 can perform normal periodic network selection to choose a higher-priority network, i.e., considering only the original priority without considering the ecological rating.

[0068] Combining recommendations for eco-smart community selection and reselection can contribute to a more sustainable planet from an environmental perspective and potentially reduce carbon taxes from a financial perspective.

[0069] Carbon Smart Community Selection and Reselection

[0070] A cell is a geographical area covered by a single base station signal. Cell selection can be performed in one of two ways: a) initial cell selection (without prior knowledge of which radio frequency channels are NR frequencies); or b) cell selection using stored information, which requires stored frequency information and optionally parameter information from previously received measurement control information elements or previously detected cells. Initial cell selection includes the following steps: 1) The UE scans all radio frequency channels within the NR band according to its capabilities to find a suitable cell; 2) At each frequency, the UE only needs to search for the strongest cell, unless in shared spectrum channel access operations, in which case the UE may need to search for the second strongest cell or multiple cells; 3) Once a suitable cell is found, it should be selected.

[0071] According to the 4GPP specification, the signal selection standard S for 4G and 5G primarily focuses on signal strength and quality. It essentially determines whether a user equipment (UE) should initiate the registration process with a specific cell based on these parameters. Under the current 3GPP specification (TS 38.304), the signal selection standard S is implemented when the following conditions are met:

[0072] Srxlev>0&&Squal>0

[0073] in:

[0074] Srxlev=Q rxlevmeas –(Q rxlevmin +Q rxlevminoffset )–P compensation -Qoffset temp

[0075] Squal = Q qualmeas –(Q qualmin +Q qualminoffset –Qoffset_temp

[0076] The descriptions of the above parameters are listed in Table 1 below.

[0077] Table 1

[0078]

[0079]

[0080] Based on existing signal selection and reselection procedures, this disclosure introduces carbon-intelligent signal selection. Figure 9 An embodiment of carbon-smart signal selection incorporating ecological ratings is illustrated. The vertical axis represents ecological ratings, and the horizontal axis represents signal quality and strength. A cell is a geographic area covered by the signal of a single base station (e.g., gNB 112, 122, or 132). When UE 101 selects a signal from cells at different frequencies, UE 101 can consider ecological ratings during the process. First, UE 101 scans radio frequency channels, frequencies, and / or bands based on its capabilities. At each frequency, UE 101 can search for and select a cell according to selection rules. In this embodiment, UE 101 selects the strongest cell (in terms of signal quality and strength) that meets the ecological rating thresholds. For example, the cell covering gNB 112 is selected because it is the strongest cell (in terms of signal quality and strength) that meets the ecological rating thresholds.

[0081] By incorporating the concept of renewable energy, cells associated with base stations (i.e., gNB 112, 122, or 123) may have the same or different eco-ratings. For example, some cells (or base stations) use more renewable (green) energy, while others use more non-renewable (i.e., grey energy, grid electricity) energy. Renewable energy can be an option for each cell because its supply is highly variable and unpredictable. In contrast, non-renewable energy (i.e., grey energy, grid electricity) is stable, but it produces more carbon emissions. In one example, a cell (or base station) could use 100% renewable energy, 90% renewable energy, 80% renewable energy, or even 0% renewable energy. In another example, a cell (or base station) could use 90% renewable energy at 9 a.m. and only 10% renewable energy at 3 p.m.

[0082] Figure 10Another embodiment of carbon-smart signal selection incorporating ecological ratings is illustrated. The vertical axis represents ecological ratings, and the horizontal axis represents signal quality and strength. A cell is a geographical area covered by the signal of a single base station (e.g., gNB 112, 122, or 132). When UE 101 selects a signal from cells at different frequencies, UE 101 can consider ecological ratings during the process. First, UE 101 scans radio frequency channels, frequencies, and / or bands based on its capabilities. On each radio frequency channel, frequency, and / or band, UE 101 can search for and select a cell according to selection rules. In this embodiment, UE 101 selects the greenest cell (highest ecological rating) that meets the basic signal standard thresholds, i.e., the cell with the highest ecological rating that meets the standard S threshold, signal quality (e.g., RSRQ, SNR) threshold, and / or strength (e.g., RSRP) threshold. For example, the cell covering gNB 122 is selected because it is the greenest cell (highest ecological rating) that meets the basic signal standard thresholds.

[0083] When camped on a cell, a User Equipment (UE) (e.g., UE 101) should periodically search for better cells according to cell reselection criteria. The UE can determine a set of frequencies or cell priorities during the cell reselection process. The absolute priority of different NR frequencies or inter-system frequencies can be provided to the UE through system information, RRCRelease messages, or inherited from another RAT during inter-system cell reselection. In the case of system information, an NR frequency or inter-system frequency can be listed without providing a priority (i.e., the cellReselectionPriority field for that frequency does not exist). If the UE receives an RRCRelease with a depriorityReq, the UE should, during T325 (a timer defined in 3GPP TS38.331), regardless of the camped RAT, treat the current frequency and frequencies stored due to previously received RRCReleases with depriorityReq, or all NR frequencies, as the lowest priority frequencies (i.e., below any network configuration value). When a NAS requests PLMN or SNPN selection, the UE removes the stored depriority request.

[0084] If the serving cell satisfies Srxlev>S IntraSearchP And Squal>S IntraSearchQ If the serving cell satisfies Srxlev>S, the user equipment may not perform co-frequency measurements; otherwise, the user equipment will perform co-frequency measurements. nonIntraSearchP And Squal>S nonIntraSearchQThe user equipment may choose not to perform measurements of NR inter-frequency cells of equal or lower priority or inter-system frequency cells of lower priority; otherwise, the user equipment shall perform measurements of NR inter-frequency cells of equal or lower priority or inter-system frequency cells of lower priority.

[0085] It is important to note that S IntraSearchP (Cell Selection RX Level Threshold) represents the minimum acceptable RSRP of the serving cell, measured in dBm. IntraSearchQ (Cell Selection Quality Threshold) represents the minimum acceptable signal quality of the serving cell, measured in dB.

[0086] When introducing the concept of renewable energy, during the cell reselection process, if a group of frequencies or cells does not support an ecological rating, has a low ecological rating, or its ecological rating is below the ecological rating threshold, the user equipment (e.g., user equipment 101) can determine that the group of frequencies or cells has a low priority. Conversely, if a group of frequencies or cells supports an ecological rating, has a high ecological rating, or its ecological rating is above the ecological rating threshold, the user equipment (e.g., user equipment 101) can determine that the group of frequencies or cells has a high priority.

[0087] In one example, a user equipment (UE) may receive a list of cells and store it in its memory. In this cell list, the first group of cells contains information related to ecological ratings. This first group of cells is assigned the highest priority. This allows the UE to preferentially select and register cells with ecological ratings during cell reselection, rather than cells without ecological ratings.

[0088] In a further example, there could be a second group of cells, consisting only of those with an ecological rating greater than or equal to an ecological rating threshold. This second group of cells is assigned a second priority, which is higher than the first priority of the entire first group. This allows user devices to prioritize and register with cells having the highest ecological rating during cell reselection.

[0089] Eco ratings and priority levels allow the network to influence user equipment to reselect to more environmentally friendly or energy-efficient cells, where possible. This provides both environmental benefits and energy savings.

[0090] Furthermore, user equipment (UE) can prioritize frequencies or cell lists based on UE status, intended use, or subscription. UE status refers to the UE's battery level. For example, when the UE's battery is relatively high, it may prefer cells with weaker signal strength; when the UE's battery is relatively low, it may prefer cells with stronger signal strength.

[0091] The intended use may be a specific service used by the user equipment (e.g., extended reality (XR), artificial intelligence recomputation), a session (e.g., a high-speed session, a high data rate session), and / or network slicing. The user equipment can determine the priority of the frequency or cell list based on the intended service described above.

[0092] A subscription may indicate that the subscriber is using carbon efficiency services. Therefore, users with such subscriptions may be more likely to choose neighborhoods with higher ecological ratings.

[0093] It is important to note that each cell typically operates on multiple frequencies or frequency channels within a specific frequency band in the network. Therefore, the methods used to determine cell priority can be applied to determining the priority of a frequency list.

[0094] Carbon-intelligent service sensing reselection

[0095] User equipment (e.g., user equipment 101) may sometimes use compute-intensive services, applications, network sessions, and / or network slices (e.g., AI training or inference), which may require significant power and generate more carbon emissions. In such cases, the user equipment may choose a more environmentally friendly cell and / or network to reduce its environmental impact. Conversely, when the user equipment does not use compute-intensive services, applications, network sessions, and / or network slices, it may not need to choose a more environmentally friendly cell and / or network.

[0096] Therefore, when selecting a cell and / or network, the services, applications, network sessions, and / or network slices being used by the user equipment can be considered. For example, when a user equipment is engaged in a compute-intensive task (e.g., AI training or inference), it may prefer to select a greener cell, frequency, and / or network. This can be achieved by temporarily adjusting the priority of the cell, frequency, and / or network during the compute-intensive task, allowing the user equipment to perform the cell, frequency, and / or network selection procedure based on the adjusted priority.

[0097] To illustrate, an AI training application might require the user's device to register with a more environmentally friendly network before the application starts. A regular messaging application, on the other hand, might not require the user's device to register with a green network before starting. Therefore, a user device running an AI training application would likely prioritize a more environmentally friendly network.

[0098] To further clarify, user devices using high-power applications (e.g., AI inference) may be more inclined to select networks or cells that meet ecosystem rating requirements. When a user device uses this service, it may be more inclined to select available networks or cells with an ecosystem rating greater than or equal to an ecosystem rating threshold (e.g., 50). That is, the network or cell has a higher priority according to the user device's priority list. The same applies to services, network sessions, and / or network slices. User devices using high-power services (e.g., extended reality (XR)), network sessions (e.g., high-speed or data rate sessions), or network slices (e.g., network slice activation) may be more inclined to select networks or cells that meet ecosystem rating requirements.

[0099] It is important to note that, although not explicitly stated, network or cell priority is both time- and location-dependent. In other words, ecological rating requirements may only be valid within a specific time interval or location area.

[0100] In addition, ecosystem rating requirements can be specified for a single service or a group of services, a single application or a group of applications, a single session or a group of sessions, and a single slice or a group of slices.

[0101] The described method offers the flexibility to define eco-rating requirements based on specific services, applications, network sessions, or network slices. It also contributes to a more sustainable mobile network ecosystem while empowering users with environmentally conscious connectivity choices.

[0102] Carbon-based intelligent service quality mechanism

[0103] The 5G Quality of Service (QoS) model is based on QoS flows. In the context of 5G networks, a QoS flow is the basic unit used to define and apply Quality of Service (QoS) for user plane traffic. It acts as a virtual "pipe" in a PDU session, carrying specific types of traffic with defined quality requirements.

[0104] The 5G QoS model supports QoS flows that require guaranteed flow bit rate (GBR QoS flows) and QoS flows that do not require guaranteed flow bit rate (Non-GBR QoS flows). The 5G QoS model also supports reflection QoS. Depending on its QoS profile, a QoS flow can be either "GBR" or "Non-GBR". The QoS profile for a QoS flow is sent to the RAN and includes QoS parameters, including the 5G QoS Identifier (5QI) and Allocation and Reservation Priority (ARP). For each Non-GBR QoS flow, the QoS parameters may also include reflection QoS attributes (RQA). For each GBR QoS flow, the QoS parameters also include the guaranteed flow bit rate (GFBR) for uplink and downlink, and the maximum flow bit rate (MFBR) for uplink and downlink.

[0105] QoS profiles typically define settings for priority queuing, bandwidth management, and traffic shaping. Priority queuing categorizes data into different classes (e.g., high priority, low priority), ensuring that high-priority traffic is processed first. Bandwidth management assigns specific bandwidth limits to different types of traffic, preventing any single type from consuming too many resources and impacting other types. Traffic shaping conditions and smooths data flows to avoid bursts or congestion, resulting in more stable and consistent network performance.

[0106] Alternate QoS Profile (AQP) represents a set of QoS parameters (i.e., Packet Delay Budget (PDB), Packet Error Rate (PER), Uplink and Downlink Guaranteed Stream Bit Rate (GFBR)) that application traffic can accommodate.

[0107] The Session Management Function (SMF) provides the NG-RAN with an AQP (Advanced Quality Plan) for a priority list. When the NG-RAN sends a notification to the SMF indicating that a QoS profile is not being met, the NG-RAN should include a reference to the AQP if the currently met value matches, to indicate the QoS that the NG-RAN is currently meeting.

[0108] When an NG-RAN node supports alternative QoS features but cannot meet, or even the least preferred, alternative QoS profile, it should release the QoS flow. Note that to reduce the risk of GBR QoS flows being released under RAN resource constraints (and then encountering difficulties during re-establishment), the Application Function (AF) can set the least preferred alternative service requirement to a less stringent level.

[0109] Building upon existing QoS profiles (QPs), this disclosure introduces the concept of a Green QoS Profile (GQP). A QoS profile can be combined with an ecosystem rating. For example, a QoS profile can include a set of existing QoS parameters (e.g., PDB, PER, GFBR UL, GFBR DL, Maximum Bit Rate UL, Maximum Bit Rate DL) plus an ecosystem rating. A Green QoS Profile is a QoS profile with a relatively high ecosystem rating.

[0110] Figure 11An example of a carbon-smart QoS mechanism incorporating eco-rating is illustrated. In this example, QP (low eco-rating network) has the following QoS parameters: PDB: 20ms, PER: 0.01%, GFBR: 30Mbps, and eco-rating: 20; GQP (high eco-rating network) has the following QoS parameters: PDB: 20ms, PER: 0.01%, GFBR: 20Mbps, and eco-rating: 50. (Note that GQP has a higher eco-rating than QP, but GQP has a lower GFBR than QP.) Furthermore, the network, user equipment, or user may perceive QP and GQP as providing the same level of service (e.g., the same customer satisfaction or quality of experience (QoE)). When this occurs, GQP may be chosen because it is more environmentally friendly.

[0111] Figure 12 This paper describes another embodiment of a carbon-intelligent Quality of Service (QoS) mechanism that incorporates Eco-Rating. In addition to QPs, this embodiment includes a set of AQPs. For example, AQP1 (the network with a low Eco-Rating) has the following QoS parameters: PDB: 40ms, PER: 0.1%, GFBR: 15Mbps, Eco-Rating: 20; Green AQP1 (the network with a high Eco-Rating) has the following QoS parameters: PDB: 40ms, PER: 0.1%, GFBR: 10Mbps, Eco-Rating: 50. Similarly, Green AQPs can be selected because they are more environmentally friendly, when the network, user equipment (UE), or user believes that the corresponding AQP and Green AQP provide the same level of service (e.g., the same customer satisfaction or Quality of Experience (QoE)).

[0112] Example description

[0113] The carbon-intelligent quality of service (QoS) mechanism can be further illustrated by the following example.

[0114] Suppose a user watches video during their commute and receives 5G service from mobile network operator A. Operator A's 5G system (5GS) is powered by both renewable energy sources (e.g., solar) and non-renewable energy sources (e.g., coal). The proportion of renewable energy used by the 5GS within a given time unit can be calculated and obtained. Operator A offers a "green communications service option" where the service has alternative QoS profiles that take into account the proportion of renewable energy and the subscriber's preferences. For example, the operator could offer a list of services containing two alternative QoS profiles:

[0115] - Traditional QoS profile: Packet Delay Budget is 300ms (and the minimum renewable energy ratio is 0%, meaning that 5GS does not guarantee the use of any renewable energy when serving this subscriber);

[0116] - Alternative QoS profile: Packet latency budget of 400ms, minimum renewable energy ratio of 40%.

[0117] Operator A can monitor the renewable energy supply of its 5G system and adjust communication services accordingly.

[0118] This user, being environmentally conscious, subscribed to an optional "green subscription service" with an alternative QoS profile. Therefore, operator A can decide to offer the user service from a network functionality entity with higher latency but a greener environment (e.g., a large-scale computing / communication center located in a remote area but powered by over 80% renewable energy).

[0119] It is important to note that the aforementioned "green subscription service" ensures that QoS level standards are still met (i.e., there is no trade-off between energy efficiency and quality of experience (QoE)) because all QoS profiles of the subscription meet the minimum quality of service.

[0120] In another example, suppose a user watches video during their commute and receives 5G service from mobile network operator A. The user subscribes to a "green subscription service" offered by operator A, which includes a list of alternative QoS profiles:

[0121] - Alternative QoS Profile 1: Packet delay budget of 400ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 10Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 40%;

[0122] - Alternative QoS Profile 2: Packet delay budget of 350ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 15Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 30%;

[0123] - Alternative QoS Profile 3: Packet delay budget of 300ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 20Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 20%;

[0124] - Alternative QoS Profile 4: Packet delay budget of 250ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 25Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 10%;

[0125] - Alternative QoS Profile 5: Packet delay budget of 200ms; guaranteed bit rate of 30Mbps; minimum renewable energy ratio of 0%.

[0126] In other words, when watching videos, users are satisfied with all of the above QoS profiles.

[0127] Operator A can monitor the renewable energy supply to its 5G system and adjust communication services accordingly. During the day, with sufficient solar power supply to the remote computing / communication center, the QoS level specified in Profile 1 can be met; therefore, users can receive video streams at a bit rate of 10 Mbps, and the service utilizes 40% renewable energy. At night, due to reduced solar power supply, users can receive video streams with QoS levels that are alternative to QoS Profiles 2, 3, 4, or 5.

[0128] By using the "green subscription service" offered by operator A, the services requested by users can utilize renewable energy as much as possible while still meeting the quality requirements of video streaming. Other benefits include reducing mobile network energy consumption by prioritizing connections to networks with lower environmental impact, enabling users to make environmentally friendly choices when selecting network connections, and flexibly defining eco-rating requirements based on specific services, applications, network sessions, or slices. This solution also seeks to strike a balance between ensuring reliable network performance through optimal signal quality and promoting environmentally friendly practices, providing a viable solution for network operators seeking to minimize their environmental impact while maintaining high-quality service.

[0129] Carbon Smart Access Control

[0130] Current 5G systems rely heavily on access identity and mapped access categories to determine whether to grant or deny network access, as well as to apply appropriate priority and resource allocation strategies.

[0131] An access identity is a unique identifier assigned to a specific type of user equipment (UE) or service. It is used to determine the access control policies and procedures applicable to that particular UE or service. Some access identities include:

[0132] - Emergency services: Emergency services used to dial emergency numbers;

[0133] - Voice services: used for voice calls and other voice-related services;

[0134] - Data services: Used for routine data services, such as web browsing and message passing;

[0135] - Multimedia services: Used for multimedia services such as video streaming, online games, etc.

[0136] Table 2 below shows some access identities defined by 3GPP.

[0137] Table 2

[0138] Access ID Terminal Configuration 0 The UE is not configured with any parameters in this table. 1 The UE is configured for Multimedia Priority Service (MPS). 2 The UE is configured as a mission-critical service (MCS). 3 UE in disaster situation 4-10 Reserved for future use

[0139] Access categories are classifications corresponding to priority levels and access control rules applied to specific types of services or UEs. They directly map to the access identity provided by the UE during Radio Resource Control (RRC) establishment. Some access categories include:

[0140] The mapping between access identity and access category is defined in the 5G specification, and the network uses this mapping to determine the appropriate access control and priority mechanism for each UE or service.

[0141] For example, a UE initiating an emergency call will provide an emergency service access identity during the RRC setup process. This access identity will be mapped to the highest access class, ensuring that emergency calls receive the highest priority and network resource access in congestion or overload conditions.

[0142] Similarly, a UE requesting regular data services will provide a data service access identity that will be mapped to a lower access category, enabling the network to prioritize more critical services such as voice or emergency calls over regular data traffic.

[0143] Table 3 below shows a mapping table (defined by 3GPP) for access identity / access category and RRC establishment reason when establishing a NAS signaling connection via an NR connected to a 5GCN.

[0144] Table 3

[0145]

[0146] Building upon the current access control mechanism, the "green" concept can also be applied to access control in 3GPP network systems. New access categories and / or access identities related to ecosystem ratings can be introduced. For example, UEs with green batteries and / or green subscriptions (i.e., higher ecosystem ratings) can obtain new access identities and / or new access categories. UEs with green batteries and UEs with green subscriptions can be referred to as "green UEs."

[0147] New access identities and / or access classes can be configured in the UMTS User Identification Module (USIM). New access identities and / or access classes configured in the USIM can have a higher priority than access identities and / or access classes dynamically configured via NAS signaling messages.

[0148] In one example, a user equipment (UE) with a green battery (e.g., charged from renewable energy sources) can be assigned a higher access class than a UE with a gray battery (e.g., charged from non-renewable energy sources). A UE with a green subscription can be assigned a higher access class than a UE without a green subscription. On the other hand, a UE running compute-intensive tasks can be assigned a lower access class than a UE not running compute-intensive tasks.

[0149] In a further example, a UE with a gray battery might be assigned to Access Class 4 for a voice call, while a UE with a green battery might be assigned to Access Class 3 for the same service. A UE without a green subscription might be assigned to Access Class 7 for an IMS call, while a UE with a green subscription might be assigned to Access Class 6 for the same service.

[0150] In another example, a green UE can be assigned a new access identity and / or access class configured in the SIM or UMTS User Identification Module (USIM), which takes precedence over access identities and / or access classes dynamically configured via Non-Access Stratum (NAS) signaling messages.

[0151] Furthermore, green UEs with green batteries can be assigned lower blocking factors (e.g., 0 to 0.2) and / or lower blocking times (e.g., 0 to 4 seconds) based on their access identity and / or access category. The blocking factor and blocking time are broadcast to the UE via dedicated System Information Broadcast (SIB) signaling messages. The UE then applies the blocking factor and blocking time to determine whether it should continue executing a specific procedure or back off and retry after a certain time interval. These parameters are used by network operators to manage network congestion and prioritize access for certain services or user groups. By adjusting the blocking factor and blocking time, the network can control the number of UEs allowed to access the network simultaneously, preventing overload and ensuring efficient resource utilization.

[0152] Please note that the blocking factor is a value between 0 and 1 used to determine the probability that a UE is allowed to perform a specific procedure (such as registration, service request, or mobility management). In other words, a lower blocking factor value means a higher probability of being allowed to perform the procedure.

[0153] Please also note that the blocking time is the duration during which a UE is prohibited from retrying a procedure after it has been initially blocked. This prevents the UE from repeatedly trying the same procedure, which could potentially further increase the network load.

[0154] In some embodiments, the UE can determine what percentage of its battery is charged from renewable energy sources. If that percentage is greater than or equal to a threshold, the UE can be considered a green UE or a UE with a green battery (i.e., a UE with an eco-rating).

[0155] In some embodiments, a UE can determine whether its radio service subscription is a green subscription by receiving a green subscription indicator, for example, from a NAS signaling message or other signaling type.

[0156] In some embodiments, the UE may identify one or more applications, services, network sessions and / or network slices associated with its access attempt in order to adjust access control policies accordingly, such as access identity, access category, blocking factor, blocking time, etc.

[0157] It should be noted that the determination of the UE is only valid when the UE is registered to its Home Public Land Mobile Network (HPLMN) or its Enhanced Home Public Land Mobile Network (EHPLMN) (if an EHPLMN list exists), and is valid for a specific time interval and / or a specific location area.

[0158] The carbon-smart solutions disclosed so far aim to optimize carbon emissions and the overall carbon footprint. By implementing the disclosed methods and systems, atmospheric carbon formation can be reduced. This minimization of carbon emissions serves the critical objective of mitigating the environmental impacts associated with such emissions, thus contributing to a more sustainable planet from an ecological perspective. Furthermore, the carbon emission reductions facilitated by the disclosed solutions bring the potential additional benefit of reducing the economic burden imposed by carbon tax regimes. Therefore, the disclosed solutions simultaneously address the environmental aspects of reducing atmospheric carbon accumulation and the economic considerations of mitigating the carbon tax burden, synergistically promoting the dual objectives of ecological protection and fiscal prudence.

[0159] Additional Notes

[0160] The user equipment (UE) described in this disclosure may include devices with wireless communication capabilities. For example, a UE may include a smartphone (e.g., a handheld touchscreen mobile computing device that can connect to one or more cellular networks). A UE may also include any mobile or non-mobile computing device, such as personal data assistants (PDAs), pagers, laptops, desktop computers, wireless handheld devices, or any computing device with a wireless communication interface.

[0161] User equipment (UE) can also be referred to as a client, mobile device, mobile terminal, user terminal, mobile unit, mobile station, mobile user, subscriber, user, remote station, access agent, user agent, receiver, wireless device, reconfigurable wireless device, or reconfigurable mobile device. UEs can include Internet of Things (IoT) user equipment, which may include a network access layer designed for low-power IoT applications, utilizing short-lived UE connections. IoT user equipment can use technologies (e.g., M2M, MTC, or mMTC technologies) to exchange data with MTC servers or devices via a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), other UEs using ProSe or D2D communication, sensor networks, or IoT networks. M2M or MTC data exchange can be machine-initiated data exchange. An IoT network describes the interconnection of IoT user equipment, which may include uniquely identifiable embedded computing devices within the Internet infrastructure. IoT user equipment can execute background applications (e.g., keeping track of activity messages, status updates, etc.) to facilitate connectivity within the IoT network.

[0162] Furthermore, the UE can be configured to connect to or communicatively couple to the Radio Access Network (RAN) via a radio interface. This interface can be a physical communication interface or layer configured to operate with cellular communication protocols such as GSM, CDMA, PTT, POC, UMTS, 3GPP LTE, 5G, and NR. For example, the UE and RAN can exchange control plane data via a Uu interface (e.g., LTE-Uu interface) through a protocol stack including the PHY, MAC, RLC, PDCP, and RRC layers. Downlink transmissions can be from the RAN to the UE, and uplink transmissions can be from the UE to the RAN. The UE can also use sidelinks to directly communicate with another UE (not shown) via D2D, P2P, and / or ProSe. For example, the ProSe interface can include one or more logical channels, including but not limited to the Physical Sidelink Control Channel (PSCCH), Physical Sidelink Shared Channel (PSSCH), Physical Sidelink Discovery Channel (PSDCH), and Physical Sidelink Broadcast Channel (PSBCH).

[0163] The terminology used in the various implementations described herein is for the purpose of describing a particular implementation only and is not intended to be limiting. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used in the various implementations described herein and in the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes all possible combinations of one or more of the related listed items. Further understanding is needed, and the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0164] The terms “coupled,” “connected,” “connected,” and “electrically connected,” etc., are used interchangeably herein and generally refer to the state of an electrical / electronic connection. Similarly, when a first entity electrically sends and / or receives (whether via wired or wireless means) information signals (whether containing voice information or non-voice data / control information) to / from a second entity, the first entity is considered to be in a “communicating” state with the second entity (or entity), regardless of the type of these signals (analog or digital). It should also be noted that the various diagrams (including component diagrams) shown and discussed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale.

[0165] Various illustrative logic blocks, modules, functions, and circuits related to the aspects disclosed herein may be implemented or performed by a processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. The processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, it may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration.

[0166] The aspects disclosed herein may be embodied in hardware and instructions stored in the hardware, and may reside in, for example, random access memory (RAM), flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), electrically programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), registers, hard disks, removable disks, CD-ROMs, or any other form of computer-readable medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor such that the processor can read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium may be the entire processor. The processor and storage medium may reside in an ASIC. The ASIC may reside in a remote station. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium may reside as discrete components in a remote station, base station, or server.

[0167] It should also be noted that the operational steps of any exemplary aspect described herein are for illustrative and discussion purposes only. The described operations may be performed in many orders different from those shown. Furthermore, the operations described in a single operational step may actually be performed in multiple different steps. Additionally, one or more operational steps discussed in the exemplary aspects may be combined. It should be understood that the operational steps shown in the flowcharts may be subject to many different modifications, which will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Those skilled in the art will also understand that information and signals can be represented using a variety of different techniques and methods. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0168] In some embodiments, the computation instructions may be executed by an operating system, such as Microsoft Windows. TM Apple Mac OS / X or iOS operating system, some Linux operating system, Google Android TM Operating system or similar system.

[0169] In some embodiments, the computers may reside on a distributed computing network, such as a network with any number of clients and / or servers. Each client may run software for implementing the client portion of the embodiments. Furthermore, any number of servers may be provided to handle requests received from one or more clients. Clients and servers may communicate via one or more electronic networks, which in various embodiments may be the Internet, a wide area network, a mobile phone network, a wireless network (e.g., Wi-Fi, 5G, etc.), or a local area network. The network may be implemented using any known network protocol.

[0170] Detailed reference has been made to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Numerous specific details have been set forth in the foregoing detailed description to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various embodiments described can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various aspects of the embodiments.

[0171] In cases where the aforementioned systems collect user information, users can be provided with the opportunity to opt in / out of programs or features that may collect personal information (e.g., information about user preferences or smart device usage). Furthermore, in some embodiments, certain data may be anonymized in one or more ways before storage or use to remove personally identifiable information. For example, a user's identity may be anonymized so that the user's personally identifiable information cannot be determined or associated, and user preferences or user interactions may be generalized (e.g., based on user demographics) rather than associated with a specific user.

[0172] While some embodiments include the disclosed features and may therefore include additional features not specifically described, other embodiments may substantially exclude or completely exclude undisclosed elements. That is, undisclosed elements may be selectively omitted substantially or completely.

[0173] While some diagrams illustrate multiple logical stages in a specific order, stages that are not dependent on the order can be reordered, and other stages can be merged or decomposed. Although certain reorderings or other groupings are specifically mentioned, other groupings will be obvious to those skilled in the art, and therefore the orders and groupings provided herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives. Furthermore, it should be recognized that these stages can be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof.

[0174] Those skilled in the art will readily observe that many modifications and alterations can be made to the apparatus and methods while retaining the teachings of the invention. Therefore, the foregoing disclosure should be interpreted only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for cell reselection, comprising: Determine a plurality of one or more cells, and the first group of cells in the plurality of one or more cells; as well as Determine the first priority of the first group of cells.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The user equipment (UE) registers with one of the cells in the first group of cells.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: Determine the second priority of one or more cells in the second group; In this second group of communities, the ecological rating of each community is greater than or equal to the ecological rating threshold, and the second priority is higher than the first priority.

4. The method of claim 3, further comprising: The user equipment (UE) registers with one of the cells in the second group of cells.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising obtaining the ecological rating of the first group of cells from broadcast information.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising obtaining the ecological rating of the first group of cells from signaling messages.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the signaling message includes a non-access stratum message, a radio resource control message, an L2 message, and / or an L1 message.

8. The method of claim 6, wherein the signaling message is provided by the serving network or the home network.

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising obtaining the ecological rating of the first group of cells from user input.

10. The method of claim 1, further comprising configuring the ecological rating of the first group of cells in the memory of the UMTS user identification module or user equipment.

11. A method for cell reselection, comprising: Provide a plurality of one or more cells, wherein the ecological rating of the first group of cells in the one or more cells is less than or equal to the ecological rating threshold; as well as Determine the first priority of the first group of cells.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The user equipment (UE) registers with one of the plurality of cells other than the first group of cells.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Determine a second priority for one or more communities in a second group, wherein each community in the second group has no ecological rating and the second priority is lower than the first priority.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: The user equipment (UE) registers with one of the multiple cells, excluding the first group of cells and the second group of cells.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising obtaining the ecological rating of the first group of cells from broadcast information.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising obtaining the ecological rating of the first group of cells from signaling messages.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the signaling message includes a non-access stratum message, a radio resource control message, an L2 message, and / or an L1 message.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the signaling message is provided by the serving network or the home network.

19. The method of claim 11, further comprising obtaining the ecological rating of the first group of cells from user input.

20. The method of claim 11, further comprising configuring the ecological rating of the first group of cells in the memory of the UMTS Subscriber Identity Module or the User Equipment.

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