Carbon intelligent quality of service mechanism

Abstract

A method of selecting a Quality of Service (QoS) profile (QP) includes setting at least one usage for a User Equipment (UE), determining a first list of QoS profiles related to a first eco-rating, and a second list of QoS profiles related to a second eco-rating, and selecting a first QP or a second QP of the UE according to the first ecological rating, the second ecological rating and the at least one setup usage. The first QP list includes a first QP, and the first QP includes a first set of QoS parameters. The second QP list includes a second QP, and the second QP includes a second set of QoS parameters. The second ecological rating is higher than the first ecological rating. The UE subscribes to a green subscription.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 501,421, filed on May 11, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to wireless communication, and more particularly, to quality of service 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 can have a low carbon intensity in most cases, while fossil fuels can have a high 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). In particular, 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 / Communications Technology (ICT) industry is one of the largest consumers of electricity. Currently, the ICT sector is estimated to account for 2-3% of global electricity consumption, a figure 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 each of these components.

[0008] In the software industry, information on green factors is already being provided. For example, the Carbon Aware SDK helps developers build software that considers its environmental impact, particularly its carbon footprint. The Carbon Aware 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 intensity during periods of high emissions. They also optimize resource use by choosing to operate in areas with lower carbon footprints, potentially by leveraging cloud computing resources in areas with cleaner energy sources. 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 metric for 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 selecting a Quality-of-Service (QoS) profile (QP). The method includes setting at least one usage for User Equipment (UE), determining a first QoS profile list associated with a first ecosystem rating and a second QoS profile list associated with a second ecosystem rating, and selecting either a first QP or a second QP for the UE based on the first ecosystem rating, the second ecosystem rating, and at least one usage setting. The first QP list includes the first QP, and the first QP includes a first set of QoS parameters. The second QP list includes the second QP, and the second QP includes a second set of QoS parameters. The second ecosystem rating is higher than the first ecosystem rating. The UE is subscribed to a green subscription.

[0011] One embodiment provides user equipment (UE) including a memory and a processor connected to the memory. The memory stores a list of first Quality-of-Service (QoS) profiles (QPs) related to a first ecosystem rating and a list of second QoS profiles related to a second ecosystem rating. The first QP list includes first QPs, and the second QP list includes second QPs. The processor is used to set at least one usage for the UE and determine either a first QP or a second QP for the UE based on the first ecosystem rating, the second ecosystem rating, and at least one usage. The first QP includes a first set of QoS parameters, and the second QP includes a second set of QoS parameters. The second ecosystem rating is higher than the first ecosystem rating. The UE has subscribed to a green subscription.

[0012] One embodiment provides a method for selecting a Quality of Service (QoS) profile (QP) performed by a 3GPP network. The method includes setting at least one usage for User Equipment (UE), determining a first QoS profile list associated with a first ecosystem rating and a second QoS profile list associated with a second ecosystem rating, and selecting either a first QP or a second QP for the UE based on the first ecosystem rating, the second ecosystem rating, and at least one usage setting. The first QP list includes the first QP, and the first QP includes a first set of QoS parameters. The second QP list includes the second QP, and the second QP includes a second set of QoS parameters. The second ecosystem rating is higher than the first ecosystem rating. The UE is subscribed to a green subscription.

[0013] These and other objectives of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 An exemplary scenario of a communication system according to an embodiment of this disclosure is described.

[0015] Figure 2 A block diagram illustrating user equipment and network entities according to embodiments of the present disclosure is provided.

[0016] Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 An example of carbon smart network selection that incorporates ecological ratings is illustrated.

[0017] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 An example of carbon smart network reselection combined with ecological rating is described.

[0018] Figure 9 This illustrates an example of carbon-smart community selection that incorporates ecological ratings.

[0019] Figure 10 This illustrates another implementation of carbon-smart community selection that incorporates ecological ratings.

[0020] Figure 11 This illustrates an example of a carbon-smart service quality mechanism that incorporates ecological ratings.

[0021] Figure 12 This illustrates another embodiment of a carbon-smart service quality mechanism that incorporates ecological ratings. Detailed Implementation

[0022] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following detailed description to provide a thorough understanding of this disclosure. However, those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits are not 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.

[0023] Introduction and Definition

[0024] 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 Frequency Division Multiple Access (SC-FDMA) systems, Carrier Frequency Division Multiple Access (CDMA) 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), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), or Enhanced Datarates for 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 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).

[0025] 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 detailed description is based on mobile communication systems corresponding to 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.

[0026] 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 generally referred to as RAN nodes, network nodes, or simply nodes) and wireless communication equipment called user equipment (UE). 3GPP RANs can include, for example, Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) RAN (GSM EDGE Radio Access Network (GERAN), Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN), and / or Next-Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN). RANs 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.

[0027] The RAN can include one or more access nodes, which may be referred to as base stations, NodeBs (NodeBs), evolved Node-Bs (eNBs), Next Generation Node-Bs (gNBs), 6G nodes, RAN nodes, controllers, transmission reception points (TRPs), etc., and may include ground stations (e.g., terrestrial access points) or satellite stations to provide signal coverage within 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 a relatively large geographic area (e.g., a radius of several kilometers) and can allow unrestricted access by UEs with service subscriptions. Microcells can cover a relatively small geographic area and can allow unrestricted access by UEs with service subscriptions. Nanocells can cover a relatively small geographic area (e.g., a home) and can allow restricted access by UEs associated with the nanocell (e.g., UEs in a Closed Subscriber Group (CSG), home subscribers, etc.).

[0028] 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).

[0029] 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.

[0030] 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 RAT, 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.

[0031] For terms and technologies not specifically described, please refer to wireless communication standard documents published prior to this specification (e.g., 3GPP specifications).

[0032] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "ecological rating" is used to describe carbon intensity or other terms that measure the "greenness" of energy. Ecological ratings are adapted to the context of the total amount and rate of environmental impact (i.e., a measure relative to another measure).

[0033] More specifically, an eco-rating can be defined as a factor calculated based on environmental impacts, such as carbon efficiency, carbon emissions, and / or carbon footprint related to energy consumption. Using the concept of ratios, eco-ratings can be further defined per service, per network slice, per subscriber, per user equipment (UE), per unit (e.g., byte) of data transmission / reception, per network element (e.g., per wireless base station), per core network element, per application server, etc.

[0034] In other words, a high ecological rating can mean "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which can be equated with 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 can be equated with more environmental impact and lower sustainability, such as higher carbon intensity, higher carbon efficiency, higher carbon emissions, and a higher carbon footprint.

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

[0036] Furthermore, an "eco-rating" can represent energy consumption. High energy consumption can mean "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which is equivalent to less environmental impact. Conversely, low energy consumption can mean "less green," which is equivalent to more environmental impact.

[0037] Furthermore, an "ecological rating" can represent a green factor. A high green factor can mean "greener" or "more environmentally friendly," which is equivalent to less environmental impact. Conversely, a low green factor can mean "less green," which is equivalent to environmental impact.

[0038] The terms "carbon smart" or "carbon-sensing" can refer to a approach aimed at achieving a lower environmental impact, i.e., a higher ecological rating. This can typically be achieved, for example, by implementing more renewable and / or clean energy sources.

[0039] In this specification, the term "network" may include, but is not limited to, Public landmobile network (PLMN), Stand-alone Non-Public Network (SNPN), and Public Network Integrated Non-Public Network (PNI-NPN). Ecosystem rating information or ecosystem rating thresholds (or targets) for candidate networks can be obtained from UE configuration, upper layers, user input, broadcast information, and / or signaling (Non-Access-Stratum; NAS, Radio Resource Control; RRC, or Layer 2 / Layer 1; L2 / L1) messages from the serving network or home network.

[0040] UE configuration / parameters can be (pre)configured or (pre)stored in the UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) or Non-volatile random-access memory (NVRAM). Optionally, UE configuration can be updated by the network and / or controlled by the home network.

[0041] In this specification, ecosystem rating information can be defined by frequency, frequency group, individual cell, cell group, access technology, slice or service type, traffic type or QoS flow, traffic descriptor or routing descriptor and / or group ID.

[0042] Furthermore, ecological rating information can be associated with temporal information, including time 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 for a specific time interval and / or within a specific location area.

[0043] Figure 1An exemplary scenario of a communication system 100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is illustrated. The communication system 100 includes networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150. Each network 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150 may 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 may be a Home PLMN (HPLMN), a Visited PLMN (VPLMN), or another type of PLMN.

[0044] 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 audio access network (RAT). Base station gNB 112 belongs to RAN 113. The control plane includes various functions such as Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), Session Management Function (SMF), Authentication Server Function (AUSF), Unified Data Management (UDM), and Policy Control Function (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, and applications that provide various services through communication with user equipment, 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, and applications that provide various services, such as UE 101, by communicating with user equipment. 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.

[0045] Similarly, networks 140 and 150 have essentially the same architecture as networks 110, 120, or 130. Therefore, they will not be described again here.

[0046] Figure 2A block diagram of a UE 201 and a network entity 211 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is shown. UE 201 may be an implementation of UE 101. Network entity 211 may be a base station (e.g., gNB 112) coupled with an 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 transmits and receives 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 sends the baseband signals to the processor 213. The RF transceiver 214 receives baseband signals from the processor 213, converts the baseband signals into RF signals, and sends the baseband signals to the antenna 215. The processor 213 processes the received baseband signals and invokes different function modules to perform functions in network entity 211. The memory 212 stores program instructions and data 220 to control the operation of network entity 211. The control function module and circuit 290 includes a registration circuit 231 for handling registration and mobility processes, a session management circuit 232 for handling session management functions, and a configuration and control circuit (CONFIG / CTL) 233 for adjusting different parameters to configure and control user equipment (e.g., UE 201).

[0047] Similarly, UE 201 includes memory 202, processor 203, and radio frequency (RF) transceiver module 204 coupled to antenna 205. RF transceiver 204 receives RF signals from antenna 205, converts the RF signals into baseband signals, and sends the baseband signals to processor 203. RF transceiver 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 perform functions in UE 201. Memory 202 stores data and program instructions 210 to be executed by processor 203 to control the operation of UE 201.

[0048] User equipment (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 Layer (NAS) for communicating with AMF entities connected to the core network, a Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer for higher-layer 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 the processor executes program instructions in memory 202, the functional modules and circuitry cooperate to enable UE 201 to perform implementations and functional tasks and features within the network. In one example, system module and circuit 270 includes a registration circuit 221 for performing network registration and mobility procedures, a network and cell selection circuit 222 for performing network and cell selection, a PLMN / PNI-NPN / SNPN information maintenance circuit 223 for handling the addition, deletion, and reset of PLMN / PNI-NPN / SNPN information in SIM / USIM 225 and / or memory 202 (the information source may also be signaling), and a configuration and control circuit 224 for handling configuration and control parameters. It should be noted that network selection and registration related information, such as HPLMN, operator-controlled PLMN / SNPN selector lists, and user-controlled PLMN / SNPN selector lists, may be stored in SIM / USIM 225 and / or memory 202.

[0049] Carbon Smart Network Selection and Reselection

[0050] 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 and other factors such as signal strength, roaming protocols, and user preferences.

[0051] 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) if the EHPLMN list does not exist or is empty, then the HPLMN, or if the EHPLMN list exists, then the highest priority EHPLMN available; 2) each PLMN / access technology combination in the "User-Controlled PLMN Selector & Access Technology" data file in the SIM (in priority); 3) each PLMN / access technology combination in the "Operator-Controlled PLMN Selector & Access Technology" data file in the SIM (in priority); 4) other PLMN / access technology combinations that receive high-quality signals, in random order; 5) other PLMN / access technology combinations, in descending order of signal quality.

[0052] 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) is selected. Then, if the combination in the highest priority list is not available, the UE moves down the list and checks the next available and permitted combination. This process continues until a suitable PLMN is found, or there are no further options.

[0053] In another example of automatic network selection, the UE selects and attempts to register on available and permitted SNPNs in the following order: 1) the SNPN last registered by the UE (if available); 2) the subscribed SNPN identified by the PLMN ID and Network Identifier (NID), for which the UE has a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and credentials; 3) if the UE supports access to the SNPN using the credentials of the credential holder (CH), the UE continues to select and attempt to register on available and permitted SNPNs that broadcast an indication that support access using the credential holder's credentials, in the following order: i) SNPNs in the user-controlled priority SNPN list (in priority order); ii) SNPNs in the credential holder-controlled priority SNPN list (in priority order); iii) SNPNs, additionally broadcasting the Network Selection Group ID (GIN) in the credential holder-controlled priority GIN list (in priority order); 4) SNPNs, additionally broadcasting an indication that the SNPN allows UEs that have not explicitly configured to select the SNPN to attempt registration, i.e., the broadcast NID or GIN is not in the credential holder-controlled priority SNPN / GIN list in the UE.

[0054] In other words, the UE searches for available SNPNs and checks if they match a 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 an SNPN in the highest priority list is unavailable, 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 is important to note that the combination of PLMN ID and Network Identifier (NID) identifies an SNPN. NIDs support two allocation models. In the self-allocation model, the NID is chosen individually by the SNPN at deployment time (and therefore may not be unique), but uses a different numbering space than the coordinated allocation NID. In the coordinated allocation model, the NID is allocated using one of two options: 1) the NID allocation makes it globally unique, independent of the PLMN ID used; or 2) the NID allocation makes the combination of NID and PLMN ID globally unique. Network Selection Group IDs (GINs) also support two allocation models. In the self-allocation model, the GIN is chosen individually and therefore may not be unique. In the coordinated allocation model, the GIN uses a combination of PLMN ID and NID and is allocated using one of two options: 1) the GIN allocation makes the NID globally unique (e.g., using an IANA Private Enterprise Number), independent of the PLMN ID used; or 2) the GIN allocation makes the combination of NID and PLMN ID globally unique.

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

[0057] By incorporating the concept of renewable energy, these 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 energy (i.e., grey energy, grid-supplied). Renewable energy is optional for each network because its supply is highly variable and unpredictable. In contrast, non-renewable energy (i.e., grey energy, grid-supplied) is stable but produces more carbon emissions. For 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 select networks 110, 120, 130, 140 and 150 according to their original priorities. In other words, network 110 is the highest priority network, while network 150 is the lowest priority network.

[0059] exist Figure 4 In this embodiment, when UE 101 considers ecological ratings in network selection (e.g., by enabling ecological / green or energy-saving options), UE 101 can make preferred selections for 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 prioritized network, while network 110, with an ecological rating of 10 (i.e., the lowest ecological rating), will be the least prioritized network. Specifically, UE 101 can prioritize or give preference to 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 carbon 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, 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 whose ecological ratings exceed the threshold. If no network meets the ecological rating threshold, UE 101 may repeat the network selection procedure 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) will be 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) will also be 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 a certain network when the following conditions are met: 1) the UE is in automatic network selection mode; 2) the UE supports "carbon-aware network selection"; 3) the UE is configured with "carbon-aware network selection" in the mobile device (ME); and / or 4) "carbon-aware network selection" is configured in the universal user 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 an 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-intelligent network reselection incorporating ecological ratings is illustrated. UE 101 can maintain, receive, and / or pre-configure a list of networks and store it in memory. 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 periodically execute a network selection procedure, and the network selection procedure 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 target network (i.e., network 130) with a higher priority, based on the original priority order. Specifically, both the target network and the initially registered network have an ecosystem rating greater than (or equal to) an ecosystem rating threshold (e.g., 50). In other words, if the target network's ecosystem rating is greater than (or equal to) the ecosystem rating threshold, UE 101 will reselect a network with a higher priority (based on the original priority order).

[0066] exist Figure 7In this embodiment, UE 101 initially registers with network 150. During periodic network selection, UE 101 can reselect a target network (i.e., network 140) with a higher priority, based on the original priority order. Specifically, the target network's ecosystem rating is greater than (or equal to) an ecosystem rating threshold (e.g., 50), but the initially registered network's ecosystem rating is less than the ecosystem rating threshold. In other words, UE 101 will only reselect a network with a higher priority (based on the original priority order) if the target network's ecosystem rating is greater than (or equal to) the ecosystem rating threshold and the initially registered network's ecosystem rating is less than the ecosystem rating threshold.

[0067] exist Figure 8 In this embodiment, User Equipment (UE) 101 initially registers with Network 150. During periodic network selection, UE 101 can reselect a target network (i.e., Network 110) with a higher priority based on the original priority order. Specifically, both the target network and the initially registered network have an ecosystem rating below an ecosystem rating threshold (e.g., 50). In other words, if no network, including the registered network, meets the ecosystem rating threshold, UE 101 can perform normal periodic network selection to select a higher-priority network, i.e., considering only the original priority without considering the ecosystem rating.

[0068] The proposed carbon-smart network selection and reselection approach can optimize carbon emissions or footprint, thereby contributing to a more sustainable planet from an environmental perspective and potentially reducing carbon taxes from a financial perspective.

[0069] Carbon Smart Community Selection and Reselection

[0070] A cell is a geographical area covered by the signal of a single base station. Cell selection is performed through one of two procedures: a) initial cell selection (without prior knowledge that the radio frequency channel is an NR frequency); or b) cell selection by utilizing stored information, which requires stored frequency information and optionally cell parameter information obtained from previously received measurement control information elements or from previously detected cells. Initial cell selection includes the following steps: 1) The UE scans all radio frequency channels in the NR band according to its capabilities to find a suitable cell; 2) At each frequency, the UE only searches for the strongest cell, except in shared spectrum channel access operations, where the UE may search for the next strongest cell or cell; 3) Once a suitable cell is found, that cell should be selected.

[0071] Cell selection criterion S, defined in the 3GPP specification and applicable to both 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), cell selection criterion S is satisfied when the following conditions are met:

[0072]

[0073] in:

[0074]

[0075]

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

[0077] Table 1

[0078]

[0079] Based on existing cell selection and reselection procedures, this paper introduces carbon-smart cell selection. Figure 9 An embodiment of carbon-smart cell 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 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 cells 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 covered by gNB 112 is selected because it is the strongest cell (in terms of signal quality and strength) that meets the ecological rating thresholds.

[0080] By incorporating the concept of renewable energy, cells associated with a base station (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 is optional 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 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.

[0081] Figure 10 Another implementation of carbon-smart cell 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 cells from different frequencies, UE 101 can consider ecological ratings during the process. First, UE 101 scans radio frequency (RF) channels, frequencies, and / or bands based on its capabilities. On each RF channel, frequency, and / or band, UE 101 can search for and select cells according to selection rules. In this implementation, 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 covered by gNB 122 is selected because it is the greenest cell (highest ecological rating) that meets the basic signal standard thresholds.

[0082] When camped on a cell, the UE (e.g., UE 101) should periodically search for better cells based on cell reselection criteria. The UE can determine the priority of a set of frequencies or cells during the cell reselection process. Different absolute priorities for NR frequencies or inter-system frequencies may be provided to the UE in system information, RRCRelease messages, or through inheritance from another RAT in inter-system cell reselection. In the case of system information, NR frequencies or inter-system frequencies may be listed without prioritization (i.e., the cellReselectionPriority field for that frequency is missing). If the UE receives an RRCRelease with a depriorityReq, the UE should consider the current frequency and frequencies stored due to previously received RRCReleases with depriorityReq, or all NR frequencies as the lowest priority frequency (i.e., below any network configuration value), while T325 (a timer defined in 3GPP TS 38.331) is running, regardless of the camped RAT. When a NAS requests PLMN or SNPN selection, the UE removes the stored depriority request.

[0083] If the serving cell satisfies Srxlev>S IntraSearchP And Squal>S IntraSearchQ The UE may not perform intra-frequency measurements; otherwise, the UE performs intra-frequency measurements. If the serving cell satisfies Srxlev > S... nonIntraSearchP And Squal>S nonIntraSearchQ The UE may choose not to perform measurements of equal or low-priority NR inter-frequency cells or low-priority inter-system frequency cells; otherwise, the UE will perform measurements of equal or low-priority NR inter-frequency cells or low-priority inter-system frequency cells.

[0084] It should be noted 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.

[0085] When incorporating the concept of renewable energy, during cell reselection, the UE (e.g., UE 101) can determine a set of frequencies or cells with lower priority if that set of frequencies or cells does not support ecological rating, has a lower ecological rating, or its ecological rating is below the ecological rating threshold. Conversely, the UE (e.g., UE 101) can determine a set of frequencies or cells with higher priority if that set of frequencies or cells supports ecological rating, has a higher ecological rating, or its ecological rating is above the ecological rating threshold. Furthermore, the cell selection criteria can be modified to Srxlev > 0 and / or Squal > 0.

[0086] In one example, the UE can maintain, receive, and / or pre-configure a set of cells and store them in its memory. In the cell list, the first set of cells contains information related to ecological ratings. This first set of cells is assigned first-level priority. This allows the UE to preferentially select and register cells with ecological ratings during cell reselection, rather than cells without ecological ratings.

[0087] In a further example, a second group of cells could consist only of those cells with an ecological rating greater than or equal to the ecological rating threshold. This second group of cells is assigned a higher priority (Level 2) than the full Level 1 priority of the first group. This allows the UE to prioritize and register cells with the highest ecological rating during cell reselection.

[0088] Eco ratings and priority levels enable the network to influence UEs to reselect to more environmentally friendly or energy-efficient cells when possible (e.g., by enabling eco / green or energy-efficient options). This provides both environmental benefits and energy savings.

[0089] In addition, the UE can determine the priority of a set of frequencies or cells based on UE status, power type, usage, or subscription. UE status can represent the UE's battery level. For example, when the UE's battery level is relatively high, the UE may prefer cells with weaker signal strength; when the UE's battery level is relatively low, the UE may prefer cells with stronger signal strength.

[0090] Usage may include specific services used by the UE (e.g., extended reality (XR), AI recomputation), sessions (e.g., high-speed sessions, high data rate sessions), and / or network slicing. The UE can determine the priority of a set of frequencies or cells based on the above usage.

[0091] Subscriptions may indicate that the subscriber is subscribing to carbon efficiency services. Therefore, UEs with such subscriptions may prefer cells with higher ecological ratings.

[0092] It should be noted 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 determine the priority of a range of frequencies.

[0093] Carbon-intelligent service sensing reselection

[0094] User equipment (e.g., UE 101) may sometimes use computationally 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. When the UE performs power-intensive uses, it can select more environmentally friendly cells and / or networks from the available cells and / or networks to mitigate its environmental impact (e.g., reduce carbon emissions). Conversely, when the UE does not use computationally intensive services, applications, network sessions, and / or network slices, it may or may not need to select more environmentally friendly cells and / or networks.

[0095] Therefore, when selecting cells, networks, and / or frequencies from a range of available frequencies, the services, applications, network sessions, and / or network slices that the UE is using can be considered. For example, when the UE is engaged in computationally intensive tasks (e.g., AI training or inference), the UE may prefer to select more environmentally friendly networks, cells, and / or frequencies. This can be achieved by temporarily adjusting the priorities of networks, cells, and / or frequencies while the UE is performing computationally intensive tasks. The UE can then proceed with the selection process based on the adjusted priorities.

[0096] For example, an AI training application might require the UE to register with a more environmentally friendly network before the application begins. A regular messaging application, however, might not require the UE to register with a green network before starting the application. Therefore, a UE running an AI training application will perceive the more environmentally friendly network as having higher priority. The same applies to cells and frequencies.

[0097] To further clarify, UEs using high-power applications (e.g., AI inference) may be more inclined to select networks or cells that meet the ecosystem rating requirements. When a UE 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 UE's priority list. The same applies to services, network sessions, and / or network slices. UEs 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, cells, and / or frequencies that meet the ecosystem rating requirements.

[0098] In other words, if the ecological rating of a network, cell, and / or frequency meets the ecological rating requirements, it can be given first priority. If the ecological rating of a network, cell, and / or frequency does not meet the ecological rating requirements, it can be given second priority. First priority is higher than second priority.

[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 approach 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] Quality of Service (QoS) refers to a network's ability to provide different levels of service for different types of traffic or applications. QoS helps ensure that network resources are allocated efficiently and that time-sensitive or mission-critical applications receive the required level of service during periods of network congestion.

[0104] The 5G QoS model is a comprehensive framework designed to support diverse services and applications with varying QoS requirements. The 5G QoS model is based on QoS flows. In the context of 5G networks, a QoS flow is the fundamental unit used to define and apply Quality of Service (QoS) to user plane traffic. It acts as a virtual "pipe" within a PDU session, carrying specific types of traffic with defined quality requirements.

[0105] Key components of the 5G QoS model include the 5G QoS Flow Identifier (5QI), QoS profiles, QoS flow binding and mapping, policy control, prioritization, dynamic management, and network slicing integration. The 5G QoS model supports QoS flows that require guaranteed bit rate (GBR QoS flows) and QoS flows that do not require guaranteed bit rate (non-GBR QoS flows). The 5G QoS model also supports reflection QoS. A QoS flow can be "GBR" or "non-GBR," depending on its QoS profile. The QoS profile of a QoS flow is sent to the RAN, containing QoS parameters, including the 5G QoS Identifier (5QI) and the Assignment and Reservation Priority (ARP). For each non-GBR QoS flow, the QoS parameters may also include the Reflection QoS Attribute (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.

[0106] A QoS profile is a set of QoS parameters and characteristics associated with a specific 5QI value. It defines the QoS requirements and processing for a particular QoS flow or service. It typically defines 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 affecting other types. Traffic shaping conditions and smooths data flows to avoid bursts or congestion, resulting in more stable and consistent network performance. A QoS profile includes parameters such as resource type (guaranteed bit rate or non-guaranteed bit rate), priority level, packet delay budget (PDB), packet error rate (PER), and maximum data burst size.

[0107] Alternate QoS Profile (AQP) also represents a set of QoS parameters that application traffic can accommodate (i.e., Packet Delay Budget (PDB), Packet Error Rate (PER), Guaranteed Stream Bit Rate (GFBR) for uplink and downlink).

[0108] The Session Management Function (SMF) provides the NG-RAN with a priority list of AQPs. 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 it, to indicate the QoS that the NG-RAN is currently meeting.

[0109] When an NG-RAN node supports alternative QoS features but cannot meet even the lowest priority alternative QoS profile, the QoS flow should be released. 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 lowest priority alternative service requirement to a less stringent level.

[0110] 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.

[0111] Figure 11An embodiment of a carbon-intelligent Quality of Service (QoS) mechanism incorporating eco-rating is illustrated. In this embodiment, 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 (UE), 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 the above conditions occur, GQP may be implemented because it is more environmentally friendly.

[0112] Figure 12 This document demonstrates another embodiment of a carbon-intelligent Quality of Service (QoS) mechanism that incorporates eco-ratings. In addition to QPs, this embodiment includes a list of alternative QPs (AQPs). For example, AQP1 (network with a low eco-rating) has the following QoS parameters: PDB: 40ms, PER: 0.1%, GFBR: 15Mbps, and eco-rating: 20; while Green AQP1 (network with a high eco-rating) has the following QoS parameters: PDB: 40ms, PER: 0.1%, GFBR: 10Mbps, and eco-rating: 50. Similarly, Green AQP might be implemented because it is more environmentally friendly, when the network, 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)).

[0113] In other words, there can be two lists of Quality of Service (QoS) profiles. The first QoS profile list is associated with the first ecosystem rating, and the second QoS profile list is associated with the second ecosystem rating. The second ecosystem rating is higher than the first ecosystem rating. The first QoS profile list includes the first QoS profile and AQPs (Advanced Quality of Service), and the second QoS profile list includes the second QoS profile and AQPs (which are more environmentally friendly than the first QoS profile list). The UE or network can identify the applications, services, network sessions, and / or network slices that the UE is using. It can then select either the first or second QoS profile for the UE based on the first ecosystem rating, the second ecosystem rating, and the applications and / or services. If the UE performance of the applications and / or services based on the second QoS profile meets the performance requirements, and the second ecosystem rating meets the ecosystem rating requirements, then the second QoS profile can be selected. If the UE performance of the applications and / or services based on the first QoS profile meets the performance requirements, and the first ecosystem rating meets the ecosystem rating requirements, but the second QoS profile fails to meet the performance requirements, then the first QoS profile can be selected.

[0114] Illustrative example

[0115] The carbon-intelligent service quality mechanism can be further illustrated by the following example.

[0116] Suppose a user watches video during their commute and receives 5G service from mobile network operator A. The 5G network operated by operator A 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 5G network can be calculated and obtained within a given time unit. Operator A offers "green communication service options," where the service has alternative quality of service profiles that take into account the proportion of renewable energy and the user's preferences. For example, the operator could offer a service with two lists of alternative quality of service profiles.

[0117] - Traditional Quality of Service (QoS) profile: Packet latency budget of 300ms (and minimum renewable energy ratio of 0%, meaning 5GS does not guarantee the use of any renewable energy source when providing services to this user);

[0118] - Alternative Quality of Service Profile: Packet latency budget of 400ms, minimum renewable energy ratio of 40%.

[0119] Operator A can monitor the renewable energy supply of its 5G system and adjust communication services accordingly.

[0120] As an environmentally conscious individual, the user subscribed to an optional "green subscription" with an alternative quality of service profile. Therefore, operator A could decide to offer the user service from a network functionality entity with higher latency but a more environmentally friendly network (e.g., a large-scale computing / communication center located in a remote location but powered by over 80% renewable energy).

[0121] It should be noted that the green subscriptions described above ensure that the service quality level standards continue to be met (i.e., there is no trade-off between energy efficiency and quality of experience (QoE)) because the service quality level in the profiles of all subscriptions meets the minimum service quality.

[0122] 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 provided by operator A, which has the following list of alternative quality of service profiles:

[0123] - Alternative Quality of Service Profile 1: Packet latency budget of 400ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 10Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 40%;

[0124] - Alternative Quality of Service Profile 2: Packet latency budget of 350ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 15Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 30%;

[0125] - Alternative Quality of Service Profile 3: Packet latency budget of 300ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 20Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 20%;

[0126] - Alternative Quality of Service Profile 4: Packet latency budget of 250ms; Guaranteed bit rate of 25Mbps; Minimum renewable energy ratio of 10%;

[0127] - Alternative Quality of Service Profile 5: Packet latency budget of 200ms; guaranteed bit rate of 30Mbps; minimum renewable energy ratio of 0%.

[0128] In other words, users are satisfied with all of the above quality of service profiles when watching videos.

[0129] 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 service quality level specified in profile 1 can be met; therefore, users can receive video streams with a bitrate of 10 Mbps, and the service utilizes 40% renewable energy. At night, solar power supply decreases; therefore, users receive video streams with alternative service quality levels as specified in profiles 2, 3, 4, or 5.

[0130] By using a "green subscription" provided by operator A, users can request services that utilize renewable energy as much as possible while still being satisfied with the quality of their video streams. Other benefits include reducing energy consumption in mobile networks by prioritizing connections with lower environmental impact, enabling users to make environmentally friendly choices when selecting network connections, and providing flexibility in 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, making it a viable solution for network operators seeking to minimize their environmental impact while maintaining high-quality service.

[0131] Carbon-based smart access control

[0132] Current 5G system access control mechanisms largely rely on access identity and mapped access category to determine whether to allow or deny access to the network, as well as to apply appropriate priority and resource allocation strategies.

[0133] 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 applied to that specific UE or service. Some access identities include:

[0134] Emergency services: Used for emergency services, such as dialing emergency numbers;

[0135] Voice services: used for voice calls and other voice-related services;

[0136] Data services: Used for routine data services, such as web browsing and message passing;

[0137] Multimedia services: Used for multimedia services such as video streaming and online games.

[0138] Table 2 below shows some access identities defined by 3GPP.

[0139] Table 2

[0140]

[0141] Access categories are classifications of priorities and access control rules that should be applied to a specific type of service or UE. They directly map to the access identity provided by the UE during Radio Resource Control (RRC) establishment. Some access categories include:

[0142] The mapping between access identity and access category is defined in the 5G specification and is used by the network to determine the appropriate access control and priority mechanisms for each UE or service.

[0143] For example, the 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 the emergency call receives the highest priority and access to network resources in congestion or overload conditions.

[0144] Similarly, a UE requesting regular data services will provide a data service access identity, which 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.

[0145] Table 3 below shows the mapping table of access identity / access category and RRC establishment reason defined by 3GPP when establishing a NAS signaling connection via NR to 5GCN.

[0146] Table 3

[0147]

[0148] 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."

[0149] New access identities and / or access classes can be configured in the Universal User Identity 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.

[0150] In one example, a UE with a green battery (e.g., charged from a renewable energy source) may receive a higher access class than a UE with a gray battery (e.g., charged from a non-renewable energy source). A UE with a green subscription may receive a higher access class than a UE without a green subscription. On the other hand, a UE running computationally intensive tasks may receive a lower access class than a UE not running computationally intensive tasks.

[0151] In a further example, a UE with a gray battery might receive access class 4 in a voice call, while a UE with a green battery might receive access class 3 in the same service. A UE without a green subscription might receive access class 7 in an IMS call, while a UE with a green subscription might receive access class 6 in the same service.

[0152] In another example, a green UE can obtain a new access identity and / or access class configured in the USIM, which has a higher priority than the access identity and / or access class dynamically configured via NAS signaling messages.

[0153] Furthermore, green UEs with green batteries can receive 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 to 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.

[0154] Note that the blocking factor is a value between 0 and 1 that determines the probability of allowing a UE 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 performing the procedure.

[0155] It's also important to note that the blocking time is the duration during which the UE is prohibited from retrying the procedure after it has been initially blocked. This prevents the UE from repeatedly trying the same procedure, which could further lead to network overload.

[0156] In some embodiments, the UE can determine what percentage of its battery is charged from a renewable energy source. 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).

[0157] 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.

[0158] In some embodiments, a user equipment (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, BarringFactor, BarringTime, etc.

[0159] It should be noted that the determination of the UE is only valid when the UE registers to its HPLMN or its EHPLMN (if an EHPLMN list exists), and is valid for a specific time interval and / or a specific location area.

[0160] The carbon-smart solutions disclosed here aim to optimize carbon emissions and the overall carbon footprint. By implementing the disclosed methods and systems, atmospheric carbon production can be reduced. This minimization of carbon emissions serves the critical objective of mitigating the environmental impacts associated with such emissions, thereby contributing to a more sustainable planet from an ecological perspective. Furthermore, the carbon output reduction facilitated by the disclosed solutions brings the incidental benefit of potentially reducing the financial 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.

[0161] Additional notes

[0162] 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 capable of connecting to one or more cellular networks). A UE may also include any mobile or non-mobile computing device, such as a personal data assistant (PDA), pager, laptop computer, desktop computer, wireless handheld device, or any computing device with a wireless communication interface.

[0163] A 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. A UE can include an IoT UE, which may include a network access layer designed for low-power IoT applications, utilizing ephemeral UE connections. IoT UEs can exchange data with MTC servers or devices via a PLMN using technologies such as M2M, MTC, or mMTC, exchange data with 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 UEs, which may include uniquely identifiable embedded computing devices within an internet infrastructure. IoT UEs can execute background applications (e.g., keeping track of activity messages, status updates, etc.) to facilitate connectivity within the IoT network.

[0164] Furthermore, the UE can be configured to connect or communicatively couple to the Radio Access Network (RAN) via a radio interface, which 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 protocol stack using a Uu interface (e.g., LTE-Uu interface), 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 a sidechain 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 Sidechain Control Channel (PSCCH), Physical Sidechain Shared Channel (PSSCH), Physical Sidechain Discovery Channel (PSDCH), and Physical Sidechain Broadcast Channel (PSBCH).

[0165] The terminology used in the various embodiments described herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used in the various embodiments described herein and in the appended claims are also intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and includes all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Further understanding is that the terms “comprising,” “including,” “comprises,” and / or “including” as used in this specification 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.

[0166] The terms “coupled,” “connected,” “linked,” 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). Further note that the various diagrams (including component diagrams) shown and discussed herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale.

[0167] Various illustrative logic blocks, modules, functions, and circuits related to the aspects described herein may be implemented or executed 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, intended 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.

[0168] The aspects described herein can be embodied in hardware and in instructions stored in hardware, and can 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, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Alternatively, the storage medium can be the entire processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. The ASIC can reside in a remote station. Alternatively, the processor and storage medium can reside as discrete components in a remote station, base station, or server.

[0169] It should also be noted that the operational steps in any of the exemplary aspects described herein are described for the purpose of example and discussion. The operations can be performed in many different orders, and are not limited to the order shown. Furthermore, the operations described in a single operational step can actually be performed through multiple different steps. Additionally, one or more operational steps discussed in the exemplary aspects can be combined. It should be understood that the operational steps shown in the figures can be modified in many different ways, 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, which may be referenced in the above description, can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0170] In some embodiments, the computation instructions may be executed by an operating system, such as Microsoft Windows™, Apple Mac OS / X or iOS, some Linux operating system, Google Android™ or a similar system.

[0171] 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 an embodiment. 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.

[0172] 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 in order 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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.

[0175] While some different diagrams illustrate multiple logical stages in a particular order, stages independent of order can be reordered, and others can be merged or decomposed. Although some reorderings or other groupings are specifically mentioned, others are obvious to those skilled in the art, and therefore the orderings and groupings presented herein are not an exhaustive list of alternatives. Furthermore, it should be recognized that these stages can be implemented using hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof.

[0176] Those skilled in the art will readily observe that many modifications and changes can be made to the apparatus and methods while retaining the teachings of the present invention. Therefore, the above disclosure should be interpreted only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for selecting a quality of service profile, comprising: Configure at least one usage for a user device that has subscribed to a green subscription; Determine the list of first service quality profiles related to the first ecosystem rating, and the list of second service quality profiles related to the second ecosystem rating, wherein: The first service quality profile list includes a first service quality profile, and the first service quality profile includes a first set of service quality parameters; The second service quality profile list includes a second service quality profile, and the second service quality profile includes a second set of service quality parameters; and The second ecological rating is higher than the first ecological rating; as well as Select the first or second quality of service profile for the user device based on the first ecological rating, the second ecological rating, and the at least one setting usage.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the user equipment that selects the first quality of service profile or the second quality of service profile based on the first ecological rating, the second ecological rating, and the at least one setting usage comprises: If the performance of the user device based on the at least one setting meets the performance requirements, and the second ecosystem rating meets the ecosystem rating requirements, then the second quality of service profile is selected.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the user equipment selecting the first quality of service profile or the second quality of service profile based on the first ecological rating, the second ecological rating, and the at least one usage includes: If the performance of the user device based on at least one setting meets the performance requirements, and the first ecosystem rating meets the ecosystem rating requirements, then the first quality of service profile is selected.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the quality of the parameters in the second set of service quality parameters is lower than the quality of the parameters in the first set of service quality parameters.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein: The first service quality profile list further includes at least one first alternative service quality profile, including a first set of alternative service quality parameters; and The quality of the parameters in the first set of alternative service quality is lower than the quality of the parameters in the first set of service quality parameters.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein: The second service quality profile list further includes at least one second alternative service quality profile, including a second set of alternative service quality parameters; The quality of the parameters in the second set of alternative service quality parameters is lower than the quality of the parameters in the second set of service quality parameters. and The quality of the parameters in the second set of alternative service quality parameters is lower than that in the first set of alternative service quality parameters.

7. The method of claim 6, further comprising selecting the at least one second alternative quality of service profile if the performance of the user equipment based on the at least one setting usage meets the performance requirements and the second ecological rating meets the ecological rating requirements.

8. The method of claim 6, further comprising selecting the at least one first alternative quality of service profile if the performance of the user equipment based on the at least one setting usage meets the performance requirements and the first ecological rating meets the ecological rating requirements.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the steps of setting the user equipment for the at least one setting usage, maintaining the first quality of service profile list and the second quality of service profile list, and selecting the first quality of service profile or the second quality of service profile for the user equipment are performed by the user equipment.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the steps of setting the user equipment for the at least one setting usage, maintaining the first quality of service profile list and the second quality of service profile list, and selecting the user equipment for the first quality of service profile or the second quality of service profile are managed by network management.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one use includes at least one application, at least one service, at least one network session and / or at least one network slice.

12. The method of claim 1, further comprising: Identify the configuration of the user device, including the user identity module, the general user identity module, settings and / or preferences; and Select the first or second quality of service profile for the user device based on the first ecosystem rating, the second ecosystem rating, and the configuration.

13. A user equipment comprising: A memory configured to store a first list of quality of service (QoS) profiles related to a first ecosystem rating and a second list of QoS profiles related to a second ecosystem rating, the first list of QoS profiles including a first QoS profile and the second list of QoS profiles including a second QoS profile; and A processor connected to this memory is configured as follows: Configure at least one usage for the user equipment; and The first quality of service profile or the second quality of service profile of the user equipment is determined based on the first ecological rating, the second ecological rating and the at least one usage. in: The first service quality profile includes a first set of service quality parameters; the second service quality profile includes a second set of service quality parameters; and The second ecological rating is higher than the first ecological rating.

14. The user equipment of claim 13, wherein the processor is configured to select the second quality of service profile when the performance of the user equipment based on the at least one setting usage meets performance requirements and the second ecological rating meets ecological rating requirements.

15. The user equipment of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to select the first quality of service profile when the user equipment performance based on the at least one setting usage meets performance requirements and the first ecosystem rating meets ecosystem rating requirements.

16. The user equipment of claim 13, wherein the quality of the parameters in the second set of quality of service parameters is lower than the quality of the same parameters in the first set of quality of service parameters.

17. The user equipment as claimed in claim 13, wherein: The list of first quality of service profiles further includes at least one first alternative quality of service profile, including first alternative quality of service parameters; as well as The quality of the parameter in the first set of alternative service quality parameters is lower than the quality of the parameter in the first set of service quality parameters.

18. The user equipment as claimed in claim 17, wherein: The second service quality profile list further includes at least one second alternative service quality profile, including a second set of alternative service quality parameters; The quality of the parameters in the second set of alternative service quality parameters is lower than the quality of the parameters in the second set of service quality parameters. as well as The quality of the parameters in the second set of alternative service quality parameters is lower than that in the first set of alternative service quality parameters.

19. The user equipment of claim 18, wherein the processor is further configured to select the at least one second alternative quality of service profile when the performance of the user equipment in the at least one setting usage meets the performance requirements and the second ecological rating meets the ecological rating requirements.

20. The user equipment of claim 18, wherein the processor is further configured to select the at least one first alternative quality of service profile when the performance of the user equipment in the at least one setting usage meets the performance requirements and the first ecological rating meets the ecological rating requirements.

21. The user equipment of claim 13, wherein the at least one usage includes at least one application, at least one service, at least one network session and / or at least one network slice.

22. The user equipment of claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: Identify the configuration of the user equipment; and Select the first or second quality of service profile for the user device based on the first ecosystem rating, the second ecosystem rating, and the configuration. This configuration includes a user identity module, a general user identity module, settings and / or preferences.

23. A method for selecting a quality of service profile performed by a third-generation collaborative project network, comprising: Configure at least one usage for a user device that has subscribed to a green subscription; Determine the list of first-service quality profiles related to the first ecosystem rating and the list of second-service quality profiles related to the second ecosystem rating, wherein: The first service quality profile list includes a first service quality profile, which includes a first set of service quality parameters; The second service quality profile list includes a second service quality profile, which includes a second set of service quality parameters; and The second ecological rating is higher than the first ecological rating; and Select the first or second quality of service profile for the user device based on the first ecological rating, the second ecological rating, and the at least one setting usage.

Images