Carbon smart network selection

Abstract

A network selection method includes connecting to a source 3GPP network, receiving a plurality of candidate 3GPP networks having ecological ratings, respectively, and selecting a target 3GPP network having a higher ecological rating from the candidate 3GPP networks when a power saving option is enabled. 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 reducing environmental influence while maintaining high-quality service of a network operator.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 500,295, filed May 5, 2023. The contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to wireless communications, and more specifically to network selection in wireless communications. BACKGROUND

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

[0005] The production of electricity comes from energy sources (e.g., natural gas, coal, wind energy) with different levels of carbon emissions. 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 consumption) varies greatly in time and space. Therefore, in order to guarantee the reduction of carbon emissions in computing and / or communication networks, it is urgent to design a signaling framework or scheduling strategy to consider the time and spatial dimensions of energy sources.

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

[0007] For example, a network-based mobile application has many contributors: 1) the electricity usage of the mobile device running the application; 2) the infrastructure that transmits application messages over the radio link to the base station; 3) the base station shared by multiple operators and the optical fiber that connects the base station to the Internet backbone network owned by various Internet service providers; 4) the data center that runs the application logic on a cloud platform shared by different enterprises. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the combined environmental impact of these components.

[0008] In the software industry, information on green factors has been provided. For example, the Carbonaware SDK helps developers build software that takes into account its environmental impact, specifically its carbon footprint. The Carbonaware SDK enables developers to create "carbon-aware" applications. These applications can adjust their behavior according to the carbon intensity of the grid. When the grid is powered by cleaner energy, such as wind or solar, they can perform more intensive tasks and reduce their load during periods of higher emissions. They also optimize resource utilization by choosing to run in areas with lower carbon footprints, possibly by utilizing cloud computing resources in areas with cleaner energy. The software development kit provides features such as measuring carbon emissions, data collection, and reporting. The Carbonaware SDK helps developers reduce the overall carbon footprint of the technology industry by making software more energy-efficient, potentially reducing its environmental impact.

[0009] In wireless communications, standards developed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) provide a model for the industry to follow. However, knowing only the energy consumption is not enough. A measure of carbon intensity also needs to be derived for the energy consumption to determine the carbon footprint of wireless network components, including hardware and software, when they are put into use. SUMMARY

[0010] One embodiment provides a network selection method performed by a user equipment (UE). The method includes connecting to a source 3GPP network, maintaining a plurality of candidate 3GPP networks with Eco-Ratings, respectively, and selecting a target 3GPP network with a higher Eco-Rating from the candidate 3GPP networks when a power saving option or an eco / green option is enabled.

[0011] Another embodiment provides a network selection method performed by a user equipment (UE). The method includes connecting to a source 3GPP network, maintaining a plurality of candidate 3GPP networks with Eco-Ratings, respectively, and selecting a target 3GPP network with an Eco-Rating greater than or equal to an Eco-Rating threshold from the candidate 3GPP networks when a power saving option or an eco / green option is enabled.

[0012] One embodiment provides a user equipment (UE) comprising a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The memory is configured to store a list of a plurality of candidate networks with Eco-Ratings. The processor is configured to connect to a source 3GPP network, maintain a plurality of candidate 3GPP networks with Eco-Ratings, respectively, and select a target 3GPP network with a higher Eco-Rating from the candidate 3GPP networks when a power saving option or an eco / green option is enabled.

[0013] These and other objects of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the following detailed description in conjunction with the preferred embodiments illustrated in the following drawings and described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 An exemplary scenario of a communication system is shown in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2 Block diagrams of a user equipment (UE) and a network entity are shown in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure.

[0016] Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 Embodiments of carbon-smart network selection in conjunction with eco-rating are shown.

[0017] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Embodiments of carbon-smart network reselection in conjunction with eco-rating are shown.

[0018] Figure 9 One embodiment of carbon-smart cell selection in conjunction with eco-rating is shown.

[0019] Figure 10 Another embodiment of carbon-smart cell selection in conjunction with eco-rating is shown.

[0020] Figure 11 One embodiment of carbon-smart quality of service (QoS) mechanism in conjunction with eco-rating is shown.

[0021] Figure 12 Another embodiment of carbon-smart quality of service (QoS) mechanism in conjunction with eco-rating is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present disclosure can 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 the present disclosure. It should be understood that the present disclosure primarily described in the context of 3GPP-specified wireless networks (e.g., 4G and 5G) but can also be implemented in other forms of cellular or non-cellular wireless networks.

[0023] INTRODUCTION AND DEFINITIONS

[0024] In particular, the techniques, devices, and systems described below can be applied in 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 systems, and multi-carrier frequency division multiple access (MC-FDMA) systems. CDMA can be implemented by a radio technology such as universal terrestrial radio access (UTRA) or CDMA2000. TDMA can be implemented by a radio technology such as global system for mobile communications (GSM), general packet radio service (GPRS), or enhanced data rates for GSM evolution (EDGE). OFDMA can be implemented by a radio technology such as institute of electrical and electronics engineers (IEEE) 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, or evolved UTRA (E-UTRA). UTRA is part of universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS). Third generation partnership project (3GPP) long term evolution (LTE) is a part of evolved UMTS (E-UMTS) using E-UTRA. 3GPP LTE employs OFDMA on the downlink (DL) and SC-FDMA on the uplink (UL). Evolutions of 3GPP LTE include LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-A Pro, and / or 5G new radio (NR).

[0025] For convenience of description, implementation of the present specification is primarily described in a wireless communication system related to 3GPP. However, technical features of the present specification are not limited thereto. For example, the following detailed description is based on a mobile communication system corresponding to a wireless communication system related to 3GPP, but aspects of the present specification not limited to the wireless communication system related to 3GPP can be applied to other wireless communication systems.

[0026] As described by 3GPP, different wireless communication system standards and protocols can use various radio access networks (RANs) to communicate between base stations (which can sometimes be referred to as RAN nodes, network nodes, or simply nodes) of the RAN and wireless communication devices referred to as user equipment (UEs). A 3GPP RAN can include, for example, a global system for mobile communications (GSM), enhanced data rates for 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 transporting data between the base stations, RECs, and core networks.

[0027] A RAN can include one or more access nodes, which can be referred to as base stations, NodeBs, evolved NodeBs (eNBs), next Generation NodeBs (gNBs), 6G nodes, RAN nodes, controllers, transmission reception points (TRPs), etc., and can include ground stations (e.g., terrestrial access points) or satellite stations that provide signal coverage for a geographic area (e.g., a cell). A RAN can include one or more RAN nodes for providing macrocells, microcells, femtocells, or other types of cells. Macrocells can cover a relatively large geographic area (e.g., a few kilometers in radius) and can allow unrestricted access to UEs with service subscription. Microcells can cover a relatively small geographic area and can allow restricted access to UEs with service subscription. Femtocells can cover a relatively small geographic area (e.g., a home) and can allow restricted access to UEs associated with the femtocell (e.g., UEs in a closed subscriber group (CSG), UEs of a family, etc.).

[0028] A base station used by a RAN can correspond to that RAN. One example of an E-UTRAN base station is an Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) Node B (also referred to as an Evolved Node B, an Enhanced Node B, an eNodeB, or an eNB). Another example of an NG-RAN base station is a Next Generation Node B (also referred to as a gNodeB or gNB).

[0029] A RAN provides its communication services to external entities through a connection with a core network (CN). For example, an E-UTRAN can utilize an Evolved Packet Core.

[0030] Each RAN can use one or more radio access technologies (RATs) for communication between base stations and UEs. For example, a GERAN implements GSM and / or EDGE RAT, a UTRAN implements UMTS RAT or other 3GPP RAT, an E-UTRAN implements LTE RAT (sometimes referred to as LTE), and an NG-RAN implements NR RAT (sometimes referred to as 5G RAT, 5G NR RAT, or NR). In certain deployments, an E-UTRAN can also implement NR RAT. In certain deployments, an NG-RAN can also implement LTE RAT.

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

[0032] Furthermore, in this specification, the term "Eco-Rating" is used to describe a carbon intensity or other term that measures the "greenness" of energy. Eco-Rating can apply to both the total amount and the ratio (i.e., a measure relative to another measure) of environmental impact depending on the context.

[0033] More specifically, Eco-Rating can be defined as a factor that is calculated based on environmental impact, such as carbon efficiency, carbon emissions, and / or carbon footprint related to energy consumption. Based on the concept of ratio, Eco-Rating can be further defined as per service, per network slice, per subscribed user, per user equipment (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, and so on.

[0034] In other words, a high Eco-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 lower carbon footprint. Conversely, a low Eco-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 higher carbon footprint.

[0035] Furthermore, "Eco-Rating" can mean 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, "Eco-Rating" can mean 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, "Eco-Rating" can mean green factor. High green factor can mean "greener" or "more environmentally friendly", which is equivalent to less environmental impact. Conversely, low green factor can mean "less green", which is equivalent to environmental impact.

[0038] The term "carbon-intelligent" or "carbon-aware" approach can mean an approach that aims to reduce environmental impact, i.e., high Eco-Rating. This can be generally achieved by, for example, implementing more renewable and / or clean energy.

[0039] In this specification, the term "network" can include, but is not limited to, a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), a Stand-alone Non-public Network (SNPN), and a Public Network Integrated Non-public Network (PNI-NPN). The eco-rating information or eco-rating threshold (or target) of a candidate network can be obtained by user equipment configuration, upper layer, user input, broadcast information, and / or signaling (NAS, RRC, or L2 / L1) messages from a serving network or a home network.

[0040] The user equipment configuration / parameters can be (pre-)configured or (pre-) stored in a UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) or a Non-volatile Random Access Memory (NVRAM). Optionally, the user equipment configuration can be updated by the network and / or controlled by the home network.

[0041] In this specification, the eco-rating information can be defined 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.

[0042] In addition, the eco-rating information can be associated with time information, including time validity information to indicate when the eco-rating information is valid, and / or location information, including location validity information to indicate where the eco-rating information is valid. In other words, the eco-rating information can be valid only within a certain time interval and / or within a certain location area.

[0043] Figure 1 An exemplary scenario of a communication system 100 according to embodiments of the disclosure is illustrated. The communication system 100 includes networks 110, 120, 130, 140, and 150. Each of the 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 other types of PLMN.

[0044] The network 110 can include control plane, user plane functionality (UPF), and applications that provide various services by communicating with user equipment (UE), such as the UE 101. A radio access network (RAN) 113 provides wireless access for the UE 101 through a radio access technology (RAT). The base station gNB 112 belongs to the RAN 113. The control plane includes various functions, such as an access and mobility management function (AMF), a session management function (SMF), an authentication server function (AUSF), a unified data management (UDM), and a policy control function (PCF). These network functions cooperate to provide connectivity, mobility management, security, and data handling in the core network. The network 120 can include control plane, user plane functionality (UPF), and applications that provide various services by communicating with user equipment (UE), such as the UE 101. The base station gNB 112 belongs to the RAN 123. The RAN 123 provides wireless access for the UE 101 through a RAT. The control plane includes various functions, such as an AMF, an SMF, an AUSF, a UDM, and a PCF. The control plane in the network 110 communicates with the gNB 112. Likewise, the network 130 can include control plane, user plane functionality (UPF), and applications that provide various services by communicating with user equipment (UE), such as the UE 101. The base station gNB 112 belongs to the RAN 113. The RAN 113 provides wireless access for the UE 101 through a RAT. The control plane includes various functions, such as an AMF, an SMF, an AUSF, a UDM, and a PCF. The control plane in the network 110 communicates with the gNB 112. Further, the UE 101 can be equipped with one or more radio frequency (RF) transceivers.

[0045] Likewise, the networks 140 and 150 have substantially the same architecture as the networks 110, 120, or 130. Therefore, the description is not repeated here.

[0046] Figure 2Block diagrams of a user equipment (UE) 201 and a network entity 211 according to embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. The UE 201 can be an implementation form of the UE 101. The network entity 211 can be a base station (e.g., gNB 112) in combination with an access and mobility management function (AMF). The network entity 211 includes antennas 215, radio frequency (RF) transceiver modules 214, a processor 213, a memory 212, and control function modules and circuits 290. The antennas 215 are used to transmit and receive wireless signals. The RF transceiver modules 214 are coupled with the antennas 215, receive RF signals from the antennas 215, convert the RF signals to baseband signals and send the baseband signals to the processor 213. The RF transceiver modules 214 receive baseband signals from the processor 213, convert the baseband signals to RF signals, and send the RF signals to the antennas 215. The processor 213 processes the received baseband signals and invokes different function modules to perform the functional features in the network entity 211. The memory 212 stores program instructions and data 220 to control the operations of the network entity 211. The control function modules and circuits 290 include a registration circuit 231 for handling registration and mobility procedures, 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, the UE 201 includes a memory 202, a processor 203, and radio frequency (RF) transceiver modules 204 coupled with antennas 205. The RF transceiver modules 204 receive RF signals from the antennas 205, convert the RF signals to baseband signals, and send the baseband signals to the processor 203. The RF transceiver modules 204 also convert baseband signals received from the processor 203 to RF signals and send the RF signals to the antennas 205. The processor 203 processes the received baseband signals and invokes different function modules and circuits to perform the functional features in the UE 201. The memory 202 stores data and program instructions 210 executed by the processor 203 to control the operations of the UE 201.

[0048] The UE 201 also includes a set of functional means and control circuitry to perform the functional tasks of the UE 201. The protocol stack 260 includes a Non-Access-Stratum (NAS) layer for communication with an AMF entity coupled to a core network, a Radio Resource Control (RRC) layer for high 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. The system modules and circuitry 270 can be implemented and configured through software, firmware, hardware, and / or combinations thereof. The functional means and circuitry cooperate with each other and with the program instructions in the memory 202 executed by the processor to enable the UE 201 to perform embodiments and functional tasks and features in the network. For example, the system modules and circuitry 270 include a registration circuitry 221 for performing registration and mobility procedures with the network, a network and cell selection circuitry 222 for performing network and cell selection, a PLMN / PNI-NPN / SNPN information maintenance circuitry 223 for handling adding, removing, and resetting PLMN / PNI-NPN / SNPN information in the SIM / USIM 225 and / or the memory 202 (where the source of the information can also come from signaling), and a configuration and control circuitry 224 for handling configuration and control parameters. It is noted that information related to network selection and registration, such as HPLMN, operator-controlled PLMN / SNPN selector list, user-controlled PLMN / SNPN selector list, can be stored in the SIM / USIM 225 and / or the 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 cell phone or tablet) selects a particular cellular network to connect to. The network is identified by a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) identifier. It is important for the UE to select a network according to a set of rules and priorities. The selection can be based on predefined priorities as well as other factors such as signal strength, roaming agreements, 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) 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).

[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) 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.

[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 standalone non-public network (SNPN) last registered by the UE (if available); 2) a subscribed SNPN, identified by the UE with a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and credentials, and a Public Land Mobile Network Identifier (PLMN ID) and Network Identifier (NID); 3) if the UE supports the use of credentials. If the UE receives a credential access SNPN from the credential holder (CH), then the UE continues to select and attempt to broadcast available and permitted SNPNs that support the use of the credential holder credential access indication 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 of GINs in the credential holder-controlled priority Network Selection Group ID (GIN) list (in priority order); iv) SNPNs that indicate that the UE does not have an explicitly configured SNPN to attempt to register, 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 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 , 4 Figures 1 and 5 illustrate an embodiment of carbon-smart network selection incorporating eco-ratings. In this illustration, 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 eco-rating. For example, network 110 has an eco-rating of 10; network 120 has 60; network 130 has 70; network 140 has 80; and network 150 has 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] existFigure 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 this embodiment, when UE 101 considers ecological ratings in network selection (e.g., by enabling the eco / green option or energy-saving option), 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 , 7 Figures 1 and 8 illustrate an embodiment of carbon-smart network reselection incorporating ecological ratings. UE 101 can maintain, receive, and / or pre-configure a list of networks and store it in its 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 perform the network selection process, which 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] Furthermore, user equipment (UE) can prioritize a set of frequencies or cells based on UE status, usage, power type, or subscription. UE status can indicate the UE's battery level. For example, when the UE's battery level is relatively high, it may be more inclined to select cells with weaker signal strength; when the UE's battery level is relatively low, it may be more inclined to select cells with stronger signal strength.

[0088] In one example, a user equipment (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. The first set of cells with ecological ratings 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.

[0089] 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 than the first group's first priority. This allows user devices to prioritize and register cells from the first group with the highest ecological rating during cell reselection.

[0090] Eco ratings and priority levels allow the network to redirect users to more environmentally friendly or energy-efficient cells via reselection of user equipment, where possible. This provides both environmental benefits and energy savings.

[0091] Usage scenarios can include specific services used by the user equipment (e.g., extended reality (XR), AI recomputation), sessions (e.g., high-speed sessions, high-data-rate sessions), and / or network slices. The user equipment can determine a set of frequencies or cell priorities based on the above usage scenarios.

[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, methods for determining cell priority can be applied to determining the priority of a set of frequencies.

[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 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] 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, users can request services that 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.

[0129] 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.

[0130] Additional notes

[0131] 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.

[0132] 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.

[0133] 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).

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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.

[0136] 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.

[0137] 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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 network selection method performed by a user equipment, comprising: Connect to a source 3GPP network; Maintain multiple candidate 3GPP networks with Eco-Ratings; as well as When enabling the energy-saving or eco / green option, select the target 3GPP network with a higher eco rating from the candidate 3GPP networks.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: The candidate 3GPP networks are prioritized based on their ecosystem rating.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: If the manual network selection mode is triggered, the user equipment provides the ecosystem rating of at least one candidate 3GPP network, and / or whether the ecosystem rating of the at least one candidate 3GPP network is higher than, equal to or lower than an ecosystem rating threshold, for selection.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the candidate 3GPP network includes a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), a Standalone Non-Public Network (SNPN), and / or a Public Network Integrated Non-Public Network (PNI-NPN).

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising updating the ecological rating of the candidate 3GPP network.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising configuring the network ecosystem rating of the candidate 3GPP network in the UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) or Subscriber Identity Module (SIM).

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the ecological rating is associated with time validity information and / or location validity information.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein when the user equipment selects the 3GPP target network, the handover message is sent from the user equipment to the source 3GPP network or the target 3GPP network.

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising receiving the candidate 3GPP network with an ecological rating.

10. The method of claim 1, further comprising pre-configuring the candidate 3GPP network with an ecological rating.

11. A network selection method performed by a user equipment, comprising: Connect to a source 3GPP network; Maintain multiple candidate 3GPP networks with ecological ratings; as well as When enabling the energy-saving option or the eco / green option, select the target 3GPP network from the candidate 3GPP networks whose eco rating is greater than or equal to an eco rating threshold.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the original priority of the candidate 3GPP network is defined according to the automatic network selection procedure in the 3GPP technical specification.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The candidate 3GPP networks are prioritized based on this ecological rating.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: If the manual network selection mode is triggered, the user equipment provides the ecosystem rating of at least one of the candidate 3GPP networks, and / or whether the ecosystem rating of the at least one candidate 3GPP network is higher than, equal to or lower than the ecosystem rating threshold, for selection.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the candidate 3GPP network includes a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), a Standalone Non-Public Network (SNPN), and / or a Public Network Integrated Non-Public Network (PNI-NPN).

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising updating the ecological rating of the candidate 3GPP network.

17. The method of claim 11, further comprising configuring the ecological rating of the candidate network in the UMTS Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) or Subscriber Identity Module (SIM).

18. The method of claim 11, wherein the ecological rating is associated with time validity information and / or location validity information.

19. The method of claim 11, further comprising receiving the candidate 3GPP network with an ecological rating.

20. The method of claim 11, further comprising pre-configuring the candidate 3GPP network with an ecological rating.

21. The method of claim 11, wherein when the UE selects the target 3GPP network, the handover message is sent from the UE to the source 3GPP network or the target 3GPP network.

22. A user equipment, comprising: Memory used to store a list of multiple candidate 3GPP networks with ecological ratings; as well as The processor coupled to the memory is configured as follows: Connect to a source 3GPP network; Maintain multiple candidate 3GPP networks with ecological ratings; and When enabling the energy-saving or eco / green option, select the target 3GPP network with a higher eco rating from the candidate 3GPP networks.

23. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the processor is further configured to prioritize the candidate 3GPP network according to the ecosystem rating.

24. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the processor is further configured to: If the manual network selection mode is triggered, the user equipment provides the ecosystem rating of at least one of the candidate 3GPP networks, and / or whether the ecosystem rating of the at least one candidate 3GPP network is higher than, equal to or lower than the ecosystem rating threshold, for selection.

25. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the processor is further configured to individually receive candidate 3GPP networks with ecological ratings.

26. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the processor is further configured to be individually pre-configured as a candidate 3GPP network with an eco-rating.

27. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the processor is further configured to individually update candidate 3GPP networks with ecological ratings.

28. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the network ecosystem rating of the candidate 3GPP network is configured in the UMTS User Identity Module (USIM) or User Identity Module (SIM).

29. The user equipment of claim 22, wherein the ecological rating is associated with time validity information and / or location validity information.

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