Apparatus and method for managing energy related information in communication network

Abstract

A method performed by an energy proxy function (EBF) service consumer for managing energy related information in a communication network, the method comprising: subscribing, by the EBF service consumer, to an EBF to receive a notification of energy efficiency (EE) information or energy consumption (EC) information, and desubscribing from the EBF to stop receiving the notification of EE information or EC information; and requesting and acquiring the EE information or the EC information from the EBF by the EBF service consumer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication systems, and more specifically, to apparatus and methods for managing energy-related information in a communication network. Background Technology

[0002] Current 5G standards (e.g., TS 28.552, TS 28.554, and TR 22.882) outline the need for network energy-related information, including performance and energy consumption measurements. However, these 5G standards do not provide a clear architecture to support the comprehensive requirements outlined in TR 22.882 for sharing energy consumption data with third parties. These requirements include the ability to provide detailed energy consumption information (e.g., the proportion of renewable energy and carbon emissions) and to predict energy usage for specific services based on operator policies and agreements with third parties. The system also supports mechanisms for sharing performance statistics and energy consumption information related to network slices, non-public networks (NPNs), or other network resources. While these standards specify what information can be shared, they do not clearly explain how this data is collected, at what granularity it is presented, or how to share this data to support accurate and reliable energy reporting.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for an apparatus and method for managing energy-related information in communication networks, which can solve problems in the prior art and other issues. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide an apparatus and method for managing energy-related information in a communication network, which can solve problems in the prior art and other issues.

[0005] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a method for managing energy-related information in a communication network, performed by an Energy Brokerage Function (EBF) service consumer, includes: the EBF service consumer subscribing to the EBF to receive notifications of Energy Efficiency (EE) or Energy Consumption (EC) information; unsubscribing from the EBF to stop receiving notifications of EE or EC information; and the EBF service consumer requesting and obtaining EE or EC information from the EBF.

[0006] In a second aspect of this disclosure, a method for managing energy-related information in a communication network, performed by an Energy Proxy Function (EBF), includes: the EBF providing a subscription service for notifying EBF service consumers of energy efficiency (EE) information or energy consumption (EC) information, enabling EBF service consumers to unsubscribe from notifications of EE or EC information, and the EBF responding to requests from EBF service consumers for access to EE or EC information.

[0007] In a third aspect of this disclosure, the Energy Proxy Function (EBF) service consumer includes a memory, a transceiver, and a processor coupled to the memory and the transceiver. The EBF service consumer is configured to provide the methods described above.

[0008] In a fourth aspect of this disclosure, the energy proxy function (EBF) includes a memory, a transceiver, and a processor coupled to the memory and the transceiver. The EBF is configured to provide the methods described above.

[0009] In a fifth aspect of this disclosure, instructions are stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the methods described above.

[0010] In a sixth aspect of this disclosure, the chip includes a processor configured to invoke and run a computer program stored in a memory to cause a device on which the chip is mounted to perform the methods described above.

[0011] In a seventh aspect of this disclosure, a computer-readable storage medium stores a computer program that causes a computer to perform the methods described above.

[0012] In the eighth aspect of this disclosure, the computer program product includes a computer program, and the computer program causes a computer to perform the methods described above.

[0013] In the ninth aspect of this disclosure, a computer program causes a computer to perform the above-described method. Attached Figure Description

[0014] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of this disclosure or related technologies, the accompanying drawings described in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, these drawings are only some embodiments of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any effort.

[0015] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of an energy proxy function (EBF) service consumer and an EBF communicating in a communication network system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2This is a flowchart illustrating a method performed by an EBF service consumer for managing energy-related information in a communication network, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a method performed by an EBF for managing energy-related information in a communication network according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating data collection from the Operations, Administration, and Maintenance (OAM) performance data file reporting management service.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a high-level process for acquiring and processing energy-related information.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an example computing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of a communication system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The embodiments of this disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, including technical problems, structural features, achieved objectives, and effects. Specifically, the terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is merely for the purpose of describing particular embodiments and is not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0023] The technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems, such as Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) systems, Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA) systems, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems, LTE Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) systems, LTE Time Division Duplex (TDD) systems, Advanced Long Term Evolution (LTE-A) systems, New Radio (NR) systems, evolution systems of NR systems, LTE-based access to unlicensed spectrum (LTE-U) systems, NR-based access to unlicensed spectrum (NR-U) systems, Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS), Global Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) communication systems, and Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). Area network (WLAN), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), future 5th generation (5G) systems (also known as new radio (NR) systems), or other communication systems, etc.

[0024] Optionally, the communication system in this application embodiment can be applied to unlicensed spectrum, where unlicensed spectrum can also be regarded as shared spectrum; or, the communication system in this application embodiment can also be applied to licensed spectrum, where licensed spectrum can also be regarded as non-shared spectrum.

[0025] In some embodiments, this disclosure proposes a method for opening up network energy-related information in 5G systems. This embodiment ensures that performance and energy consumption measurements are made available in a manner consistent with operator policies and third-party protocols. Network energy-related information should include performance metrics and energy consumption data, according to standards such as TS 28.552 and TS 28.554, and as outlined in TR 22.882. However, the architecture required to integrate and open up these measurements in accordance with Section 6.4 of TR 22.882 is not adequately defined in existing solutions.

[0026] Some embodiments allow for the sharing of energy consumption information, including data on the ratio of renewable energy to carbon emissions (if applicable). Depending on the location, this information can be reported over different time periods (e.g., monthly or yearly). Furthermore, it involves the ability for operators to share energy consumption data related to specific network resources (such as network slices and non-public networks (NPNs)). The system also supports sending notifications to third parties when energy consumption approaches preset limits.

[0027] Furthermore, depending on the operator's policy, the system can make network performance statistics, such as data rate, packet latency and packet loss, as well as energy consumption data, publicly available. This openness includes energy consumption predictions for application services and allows trusted third parties to configure which specific network performance metrics to make available.

[0028] The 5G system also supports mechanisms for third parties to provide current or predicted energy consumption information. This mechanism allows for reporting of energy consumption over a specific period, including the proportion of renewable energy used to provide services. The architecture defined in this embodiment ensures the ability to flexibly provide fine-grained energy-related data, such as by network slice, user equipment (UE), or network function (NF), thereby ensuring comprehensive visibility into network energy consumption and performance.

[0029] Some implementations fill gaps in the current 5G architecture by defining how to open up network energy-related information and detailing the granularity of presenting that information, thereby facilitating the provision of accurate and timely energy usage data to third parties.

[0030] To address the challenges posed by the openness of energy consumption information in 5G systems, some embodiments of this disclosure provide an exemplary framework for managing and opening up energy-related information. Specifically, the disclosed systems and apparatuses are capable of providing energy-related information openness to user equipment (UE) and network functions (NF) in 5G systems.

[0031] In some embodiments, this disclosure introduces an Energy Proxy Function (EBF) in the 5G core network (5GC). The EBF acts as an intermediary between the network and authorized third parties, facilitating the acquisition of energy-related information. The EBF processes the information to generate key performance indicators (KPIs) for energy consumption and energy efficiency. The EBF then shares the processed energy consumption and efficiency-related data with the authorized third parties, thereby providing insights into network energy usage and performance.

[0032] Energy-based functions (EBFs) can be implemented as independent network functions (NFs) within 5GC, or integrated as sub-functions of the Network Data Analytics Function (NWDAF). Furthermore, EBFs can be sub-functions of any other existing 5GC NF, or newly defined NFs within the 5G architecture. This flexible architecture ensures efficient processing and openness of energy-related data in 5G systems, meeting the growing demands for energy transparency and optimization.

[0033] Figure 1 In some embodiments, an Energy Proxy Function (EBF) service consumer 10 and an Energy Proxy Function (EBF) 20 are provided in a communication network system 30 (e.g., an NR system) according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication network system 30 includes EBF service consumer 10 and EBF 20. EBF service consumer 10 may include memory 12, transceiver 13, and processor 11 coupled to memory 12 and transceiver 13. EBF 20 may include memory 22, transceiver 23, and processor 21 coupled to memory 22 and transceiver 23. Processor 11 or 21 may be configured to implement the functions, programs, and / or methods described herein. Multiple layers of a wireless interface protocol may be implemented in processor 11 or 21. Memory 12 or 22 is operatively coupled to processor 11 or 21 and stores various information to operate processor 11 or 21. Transceiver 13 or 23 is operatively coupled to processor 11 or 21 and transmits and / or receives radio signals.

[0034] Processor 11 or 21 may include application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), other chipsets, logic circuits, and / or data processing devices. Memory 12 or 22 may include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), flash memory, memory cards, storage media, and / or other storage devices. Transceiver 13 or 23 may include baseband circuitry for processing radio frequency signals. When these embodiments are implemented in software, the techniques described herein can be implemented by modules (e.g., programs, functions, etc.) that perform the functions described herein. These modules may be stored in memory 12 or 22 and executed by processor 11 or 21. Memory 12 or 22 may be implemented internally to processor 11 or 21; alternatively, memory 12 or 22 may be implemented externally to processor 11 or 21, in which case memory 12 or 22 may be communicatively coupled to processor 11 or 21 in various manners known in the art.

[0035] In some embodiments, the processor 11 is configured to perform: subscribing to the EBF to receive notifications of energy efficiency (EE) information or energy consumption (EC) information, and unsubscribing from the EBF to stop receiving notifications of EE information or EC information; and requesting and obtaining EE information or EC information from the EBF. This can solve problems in the prior art and other issues.

[0036] In some embodiments, the processor 21 is configured to perform: providing a subscription service for notifying EBF service consumers of energy efficiency (EE) information or energy consumption (EC) information, enabling EBF service consumers to unsubscribe from notifications of EE information or EC information, and responding to requests from EBF service consumers for obtaining EE information or EC information.

[0037] Figure 2This is an example of a method 200 for managing energy-related information in a communication network, performed by an EBF service consumer according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 200 for managing energy-related information, performed by an EBF service consumer according to embodiments of the present disclosure, is configured to implement some embodiments of the present disclosure. Some embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in the method 200 for managing energy-related information, performed by an EBF service consumer using any appropriately configured hardware and / or software. In some embodiments, the method 200 for managing energy-related information, performed by an EBF service consumer, includes: operation 202, whereby the EBF service consumer subscribes to the EBF to receive notifications of energy efficiency (EE) information or energy consumption (EC) information, and unsubscribes from the EBF to stop receiving notifications of EE or EC information; and operation 204, whereby the EBF service consumer requests and obtains EE or EC information from the EBF. This can solve problems in the prior art and other issues.

[0038] In some embodiments, EE or EC information is exposed to an Application Function (AF) or Application Server (AS) via a Network Exposure Function (NEF) by subscribing to EE or EC information from the EBF. In some embodiments, EE or EC information is exposed to an Application Function (AF) or Application Server (AS) via a Network Exposure Function (NEF) by requesting EE or EC information from the EBF. In some embodiments, the EE or EC information focuses on user plane metrics, including User Plane Function (UPF), Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions, Quality of Service (QoS) streams, and / or Packet Detection Function (PDF) streams. In some embodiments, the EE or EC information includes multiple performance counters whose sum is a weighted sum of transactions, where transactions with higher energy consumption are given higher weights. In some embodiments, the EBF service consumer requests the EBF to calculate the energy efficiency metrics of a network slice. In some embodiments, an EBF service consumer requests energy consumption information for a network function (NF) by providing an NF instance ID, NF set ID, or NF type. In some embodiments, an EBF service consumer requests the EBF to identify the NF instance serving a specific user based on a provided Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI). In some embodiments, an EBF service consumer interacts with an EBF implemented as one of the following to manage EE or EC information in a 5GC network: a standalone 5G Core (5GC) NF, a subfunction of an existing NF, or a subfunction of a newly defined 5GC NF.

[0039] Figure 3This is an example of a method 300 performed by an EBF for managing energy-related information in a communication network according to embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 300 for managing energy-related information performed by an EBF is configured to implement some embodiments of the present disclosure. Some embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented in the method 300 for managing energy-related information performed by an EBF using any appropriately configured hardware and / or software. In some embodiments, the method 300 for managing energy-related information performed by an EBF includes: operation 302, in which the EBF provides a subscription service for notifying EBF service consumers of energy efficiency (EE) information or energy consumption (EC) information, and enables EBF service consumers to unsubscribe from notifications of EE or EC information; and operation 304, in which the EBF responds to a request from an EBF service consumer for obtaining EE or EC information. This can solve problems in the prior art and other issues.

[0040] In some embodiments, the EBF exposes EE or EC information to Application Functions (AFs) or Application Servers (ASs) via the Network Open Function (NEF) by utilizing subscriptions to EE or EC information. In some embodiments, the EBF exposes EE or EC information to AFs or ASs via requests to EE or EC information. In some embodiments, the EE or EC information provided by the EBF focuses on user plane metrics, including User Plane Functions (UPFs), Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions, Quality of Service (QoS) flows, and / or Packet Inspection Function (PDF) flows. In some embodiments, the EE or EC information provided by the EBF includes multiple performance counters, the sum of which is a weighted sum of transactions, with higher-energy-consuming transactions given higher weights. In some embodiments, the EBF calculates energy efficiency metrics for network slices based on requests from EBF service consumers. In some embodiments, the EBF provides network function (NF) energy consumption information by processing NF instance IDs, NF set IDs, or NF types provided by EBF service consumers. In some embodiments, the EBF identifies the NF instance serving a specific user based on a provided Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) upon request from the EBF service consumer. In some embodiments, the EBF operates as a standalone 5G Core (5GC) Network Function (NF), a subfunction of an existing NF, or a subfunction of a newly defined 5G CNF for managing EE or EC information within the 5GC network.

[0041] Section 6.7 of TS 28.554 defines logical KPI formulas that can be used to derive several key performance indicators (KPIs) for energy efficiency. These energy efficiency KPIs include the following: 1. Network Gateway Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) data energy efficiency. 2. Network slice energy efficiency, which covers general network slice energy efficiency KPIs, enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) network slice energy efficiency, RAN-based eMBB network slice energy efficiency, ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) network slice energy efficiency, and manufacturing Internet-of-Things (MIoT) network slice energy efficiency. 3. 5G energy consumption, which includes NF energy consumption, 5GC energy consumption, network slice energy consumption, and NG-RAN energy consumption. 4. 5G energy efficiency, which includes general 5GC energy efficiency KPIs and 5GC energy efficiency based on the effective output of the 5GC user plane.

[0042] Based on these KPIs and measurement methods, network energy-related information should be made available at the following granularities: 1. Per User Equipment (UE): Energy consumed by the 5G system in providing services to the UE. As described in Clause 5.5 of TR 22.882, the 5G system should support monitoring of energy-related events (e.g., "insufficient energy credit") related to energy consumption incurred in providing services to the UE within the 5G system. The 5G system should notify the Application Server (AS) of such events. 2. Per Non-Public Network (NPN) or Network Slice: When a dedicated slice is used for an NPN, the use case in Clause 5.7 of TR 22.882 describes the 5G system's obligation to make selected network performance statistics and energy consumption information for network functions serving customers (especially within the NPN) accessible to trusted third parties. 3. Per Application Service: As outlined in Clause 5.8 of TR 22.882, the 5G system should obtain energy efficiency metrics for one or more application services and share these energy efficiency notifications with the relevant application service providers. 4. Each Network Function (NF): For example, in NG-RAN, the use cases described in Clauses 5.3 and 5.4 of TR 22.882 emphasize that 5G systems (especially in energy-as-a-service scenarios) should collect and make available energy consumption data in the RAN network, taking into account characteristics such as dual connectivity, CU-DU deployment, and RAN sharing between different PLMNs or NPNs. This data should be made available to users of the RAN network and authorized third parties.

[0043] Energy efficiency KPIs will vary depending on the specific NF (Network Function). For example, for UPF (User-Generated Function), the energy efficiency metric can be defined as the amount of data (as specified in Clause 5.4 of TS 28.552) and normalized to the energy consumption of the UPF instance. For Unified Data Management (UDM), the energy efficiency metric can be the "average number of users registered through the UDM" and normalized to the energy consumption of the UDM instance. This comprehensive framework provides the necessary flexibility and granularity for opening up energy consumption and efficiency-related information in 5G systems.

[0044] Table 1 summarizes information related to the energy of open networks at different granular levels.

[0045] Table 1: Openness of Energy Efficiency Information

[0046]

[0047]

[0048]

[0049]

[0050] To further meet the requirements and use cases outlined in TR 22.882, a new 5G core (5GC) network function (called Energy Proxy Function (EBF)) can be introduced. The EBF will act as an intermediary between the 5G network and authorized third parties. The EBF's role is to acquire energy-related information from the network, process this information to generate key performance indicators (KPIs) for energy consumption and energy efficiency, and then make the processed energy consumption and efficiency data available to authorized third parties.

[0051] In some embodiments, the term EBF refers to this newly introduced 5GC network function. It should be understood that this new network function may also be referred to by other names, such as the Energy Management Function (EMF), Energy Broker Function (EBF), Energy Information Function (EIF), or any other alternative name. Regardless of the specific naming convention, the function will maintain the same set of functions—namely, managing energy-related information and making energy-related information available to external entities.

[0052] The Energy Proxy Function (EBF) in the 5G core (5GC) network can perform the following functions to manage and open up energy-related information: 1. Data Collection: The EBF collects energy consumption data from multiple network elements, including Radio Access Network (RAN) nodes, 5G Core Network Functions (NF), network slices, and User Equipment (UE). 2. Data Processing: The EBF processes raw data based on specific operator and third-party requirements to calculate energy efficiency metrics, carbon emissions, and the proportion of renewable energy used. 3. Periodic Reporting: The EBF can periodically report energy-related information to authorized third parties (e.g., monthly or annually) according to agreements between authorized third parties and network operators. 4. Energy Credit Notification: When energy consumption reaches a predetermined energy credit limit, the EBF notifies the relevant entities, thereby allowing proactive management of energy resources. 5. User-Specific Data Opening: With user consent, the EBF opens up energy efficiency information related to individual subscribers (e.g., energy consumption based on their data usage and related metrics), providing greater transparency and user-specific insights. This embodiment describes an exemplary implementation of an EBF in a 5GC network, which is used for efficient energy management and to make energy-related data available to authorized entities.

[0053] The Energy Agent Function (EBF) in the 5G Core (5GC) network interacts with the Operation, Management and Maintenance (OAM) system to collect relevant performance data and counters, which are then used to generate energy-related Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Figure 4 The text describes the interaction between EBF and OAM during the data acquisition process. Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the process of collecting and reporting energy-related information. The data collection mechanism depends on the specific use case and the required energy consumption or efficiency metrics. This diagram is an abstraction of the OAM performance data file reporting management service defined in TS 28.532. The specific OAM services and reporting mechanisms used by the EBF are based on standards such as TS 28.532, TS 28.550, and TS 28.545. These standards specify methods by which the EBF can retrieve, process, and report relevant energy performance data necessary for efficient network energy management and for sharing with third parties. This implementation ensures efficient collection of energy-related information to support various energy consumption and efficiency-related use cases within the 5GC network.

[0054] Figure 4 In some embodiments, the Energy Proxy Function (EBF) is configured to subscribe to relevant Operations, Administration, and Maintenance (OAM) services to collect energy information and other performance counters. In this configuration, the EBF requests and subscribes to specific OAM services based on the network operator's requirements and policies.

[0055] Figure 4 The following process illustrates that the EBF is pre-configured with the parameters necessary to subscribe to these OAM services: 1. Subscription Setup: The EBF subscribes to the OAM service by sending a subscription request containing relevant energy-related metrics and performance counters. This includes data related to energy consumption, energy efficiency, and other KPIs from network slices, network functions (NFs), or user equipment (UEs). 2. OAM Configuration: To this end, the OAM system establishes the necessary mechanisms to ensure continuous and timely collection of the requested data. The OAM is configured with a performance data collection service and prepares a reporting mechanism conforming to the standards defined in TS 28.532, TS 28.550, and TS28.545. 3. Continuous Data Collection: Once the subscription is complete, the OAM continuously collects the required performance counters, energy data, and other relevant metrics. These metrics may include energy consumption of RAN nodes, network slices, 5GC NFs, and specific UEs, as well as additional data (e.g., renewable energy ratio and carbon emissions). 4. Data Reporting: OAM regularly sends collected data to EBF, allowing EBF to process raw data, calculate KPIs, and make necessary energy-related information available to authorized third parties. By establishing this continuous data collection, EBF can provide energy insights, perform energy efficiency calculations, and report these metrics as needed, ensuring that energy information remains up-to-date and accurate.

[0056] In some embodiments, the Energy Agent Function (EBF) subscribes to relevant Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) services to collect energy consumption data and other performance metrics as outlined in TS 28.532. Figure 4 The interaction within follows the process described below.

[0057] 1. Subscription Request (Article 11.6.1.3.2 of TS 28.532): The EBF sends a subscription request to the management service provider. The request specifies the notification and data services required by the EBF (including energy-related metrics such as energy consumption, energy efficiency KPIs and other relevant counters).

[0058] 2. Subscription Response (Section 11.6.1.3.3 of TS 28.532): The management service provider responds to the EBF indicating whether the subscription request was successful. If successful, the management service provider continues to prepare the required data.

[0059] 3. Data Processing: The management service provider prepares relevant data based on the subscription, and collects energy information and other performance indicators from the network (including RAN nodes, network slices or network functions (NF)).

[0060] 4. Document Readiness Notification (Section 11.6.1.1 of TS 28.532): Once the data is ready, the management service provider will send a notification to the EBF informing it that the data file requested by the EBF is ready and ready for retrieval.

[0061] Data retrieval (Section 11.6.2 of TS 28.532): The EBF uses the file transfer protocol defined in TS 28.532 to retrieve data. The EBF then processes the data for energy analysis, efficiency KPI calculations, and reporting to authorized third parties. Figure 4 This process ensures that the EBF continuously and automatically collects energy-related data, which the EBF can then use to provide valuable insights into network energy consumption and efficiency to external consumers.

[0062] In some embodiments, the Energy Agent Function (EBF) is able to identify and retrieve energy-related management data specific to a network slice based on Network Slice Selection Assist Information (S-NSSAI) and Network Slice Instance Identifier (NSI ID). The EBF achieves this by interacting with Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM) services, as outlined below.

[0063] 1. Identification of Network Slice Management Objects: EBF identifies relevant network slice management objects based on network slice information (including S-NSSAI and NSI ID). These management objects are associated with various network resources, including network function (NF) instances serving the slice, as well as associated 5G core (5GC) and network gateway radio access network (NG-RAN) components.

[0064] 2. Management Data Collection: The EBF consumes management services provided by OAM to collect relevant data from identified network slice management objects. This includes performance measurements from the NRF (Network Function Repository Function) serving the slice, performance data from the NF associated with the slice, and NG-RAN or 5GC performance metrics as defined in TS 28.552. Additionally, the EBF collects 5G end-to-end key performance indicators (KPIs) as defined in TS 28.554.

[0065] 3. Energy Consumption and Energy Efficiency Calculation: The EBF uses data collected from the OAM service to apply the energy efficiency formula outlined in TS 28.554 to determine energy consumption and energy efficiency KPIs. These KPIs are derived from performance counters and other network metrics and can be applied to different layers or elements of the 5G system (including network slices, NF, or RAN components).

[0066] 4. KPI Reporting and Accessibility: Once energy consumption and energy efficiency KPIs are calculated, EBF can share this information with authorized third parties or external systems as part of its energy brokerage function. This enables a comprehensive understanding of energy use and efficiency within a specific network slice, thereby supporting operator strategies and third-party agreements.

[0067] Figure 5 The high-level process described illustrates how the EBF interacts with various NF and OAM services to collect management data related to network slices. The EBF processes this data to calculate energy-related KPIs, thereby ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of energy management within network slices. The data is then made available to external entities according to predefined policies and protocols.

[0068] In some embodiments, the Energy Proxy Function (EBF) provides a mechanism for opening up energy-related information in 5G networks. Figure 5 The document describes two sets of processes for managing energy consumption (EC) information and energy efficiency (EE) information.

[0069] Subscription-based information disclosure: The first set of processes allows EBF service consumers (e.g., Network Functions (NF) or OAM) to subscribe to or unsubscribe from receiving notifications about EE and EC information at the EBF. This subscription mechanism allows service consumers to receive proactive notifications when energy-related events occur. In some cases, subscriptions can be used to disclose EE / EC information to Application Functions (AF) or Application Servers (AS) via the Network Open Function (NEF).

[0070] Request-based information disclosure: The second set of processes involves EBF service consumers requesting specific EE / EC information from the EBF. Information can be obtained upon request, and similar to the subscription mechanism, information can be disclosed to the AF or AS via the NEF based on the request.

[0071] User plane focused metrics: In one embodiment, network energy-related information can focus on user plane metrics, such as metrics associated with User Plane Functions (UPF), Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions, Quality of Service (QoS) flows, or Packet Inspection Function (PDF) flows. These metrics provide energy insights specific to user plane activity.

[0072] Weighted sum of energy efficiency counters: In another embodiment, energy efficiency is calculated using a weighted sum of performance counters. In the calculation, transactions that consume more energy are given a higher weight, as shown in the following formula: Weighted Performance = w1p1 + w2p2 + ... + w_n * p_n, where p1, p2...p_n are performance counters, and w1, w2...w_n are the corresponding weights reflecting the energy consumption of the transactions.

[0073] Network Slice Energy Efficiency: Another embodiment allows the EBF to calculate the energy efficiency of different types of network slices, such as enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) slices, ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) slices, or massive Internet of Things (MIoT) slices. In this case, the AF uses S-NSSAI (Slice / Service Type Identifier) ​​to request energy consumption data, and the EBF queries OAM and NRF (Network Function Repository Function) to collect relevant NF instance IDs, NF set IDs, or NF types, thereby retrieving the energy consumption data of the network slice.

[0074] NF identifier conversion for OAM requests: In this embodiment, when requesting energy consumption information, the AF provides an NF instance ID, NF set ID, or NF type. Then, the EBF converts these identifiers by querying the NRF, mapping them to fully qualified domain names (FQDNs) or IP addresses, and uses the entity's FQDN or IP address to request energy consumption data from the OAM.

[0075] Energy analysis based on SUPI: In another embodiment, when a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) is provided, the EBF identifies NF instances (e.g., Access and Mobility Functions (AMF) and Session Management Functions (SMF)) serving a specific UE. The EBF then filters data based on the provided S-NSSAI and NF type, and retrieves analysis results based on network slices and NF instances.

[0076] EBF as a 5GC network function: EBF can be implemented as: a standalone 5G core (5GC) network function (NF), a sub-function of an existing NF (such as Network Data Analysis Function (NWDAF)), or a sub-function of any other existing or new NF in 5GC. This embodiment illustrates the flexibility and scalability of EBF in acquiring, processing, and opening up energy-related information in 5G systems to support energy efficiency targets.

[0077] With the escalation of global environmental issues, reducing carbon emissions has become a key objective for various industries worldwide, particularly network operators and service providers whose operations are energy-intensive. These activities, including extensive network infrastructure and power-intensive data centers, have a significant impact on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As reliance on digital connectivity increases, industry players must take proactive steps to minimize their carbon footprint. Some embodiments of this disclosure provide an exemplary framework for opening up energy consumption information, detailing energy-related information opening systems and apparatuses for user equipment (UE) and network functions (NF) in 5G systems. By employing energy efficiency metrics for 5G UEs, NFs, and network slices, this solution creates a consistent benchmark for comparing energy efficiency performance within the 5G ecosystem. Furthermore, the framework supports new business models that utilize network efficiency as a key service standard. This framework enables network operators and service providers to utilize energy more effectively and achieve their GHG reduction targets. Additionally, service users can choose renewable energy to offset emissions or pay extra for a better user experience, thus contributing to environmental sustainability.

[0078] Some embodiments offer the following commercial benefits: 1. Solving problems and other issues in the prior art. 2. Reducing environmental impact. 3. Improving energy efficiency. 4. Providing good communication performance. 5. Providing high reliability. Some embodiments of this disclosure can be used in many applications. Some embodiments of this disclosure are applicable to chipset suppliers, video system development suppliers, vehicle manufacturers (including cars, trains, trucks, buses, bicycles, motorcycles, helmets, etc.), drones (unmanned aerial vehicles), smartphone manufacturers, manufacturers of communication equipment for public safety, and manufacturers of augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) / mixed reality (MR) devices (e.g., for gaming, conferences / seminars, educational purposes). Some embodiments of this disclosure are combinations of "technologies / processes" that can be adopted in video standards to create a final product. Some embodiments of this disclosure propose technical mechanisms. At least one solution, method, system, and apparatus proposed in some embodiments of this disclosure can be used in current and / or new / future standards concerning communication systems (e.g., UEs, base stations, and / or communication systems). Compatible products follow at least one solution, method, system, and apparatus proposed in some embodiments of this disclosure. The proposed solutions, methods, systems, and apparatuses are widely used in UEs, base stations, and / or communication systems. By implementing at least one solution, method, system, and apparatus proposed in some embodiments of this disclosure, at least one modification can be made to the methods and apparatuses for feeder link switching in non-terrestrial network (NTN) communication environments for standardization.

[0079] Figure 6 This is an example of a computing device 1100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Any suitable computing device can be used to perform the operations described herein. For example, Figure 6 An example of a computing device 1100 is shown, which can be implemented using any suitably configured hardware and / or software. Figures 1 to 5 Some embodiments are described below. In some embodiments, computing device 1100 may include processor 1112, which is communicatively coupled to memory 1114, and which executes computer-executable program code and / or accesses information stored in memory 1114. Processor 1112 may include a microprocessor, application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), state machine, or other processing device. Processor 1112 may include any number of processing devices (including one processing device). Such a processor may include or communicate with a computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by processor 1112, cause the processor to perform the operations described herein.

[0080] Memory 1114 may include any suitable non-transitory computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media may include any electronic, optical, magnetic storage device, or other storage devices capable of providing computer-readable instructions or other program code to a processor. Non-limiting examples of computer-readable media include: disks, memory chips, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), configured processors, optical storage devices, magnetic tape or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium from which a computer processor may read instructions. These instructions may include processor-specific instructions generated by a compiler and / or interpreter from code written in any suitable computer programming language, including, for example, C, C++, C#, Visual Basic, Java, Python, Perl, JavaScript, and ActionScript.

[0081] The computing device 1100 may also include a bus 1116. The bus 1116 may be communicatively coupled to one or more components of the computing device 1100. The computing device 1100 may also include a number of external or internal devices, such as input or output devices. For example, the computing device 1100 is shown having an input / output (“I / O”) interface 1118 that can receive input from one or more input devices 1120 or provide output to one or more output devices 1122. The one or more input devices 1120 and the one or more output devices 1122 may be communicatively coupled to the I / O interface 1118. The communication coupling may be implemented in any suitable manner (e.g., via printed circuit board connection, via cable connection, via wireless communication, etc.). Non-limiting examples of the input device 1120 include a touchscreen (e.g., one or more cameras for imaging a touch area, or a pressure sensor for detecting pressure changes caused by a touch), a mouse, a keyboard, or any other device that can be used to generate input events in response to physical actions by a user of the computing device. Non-limiting examples of output device 1122 include a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, an external display, a speaker, or any other device that can be used to display or otherwise present output generated by a computing device.

[0082] The computing device 1100 can execute program code that configures the processor 1112 to perform the aforementioned... Figures 1 to 5 One or more of the operations in some embodiments. The program code may reside in memory 1114 or any suitable computer-readable medium and may be executed by processor 1112 or any other suitable processor.

[0083] The computing device 1100 may also include at least one network interface device 1124. The network interface device 1124 may include any device or group of devices suitable for establishing wired or wireless data connections with one or more data networks 1128. Non-limiting examples of the network interface device 1124 include Ethernet network adapters, modems, and / or similar devices. The computing device 1100 may transmit messages in the form of electronic or optical signals via the network interface device 1124.

[0084] Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an example communication system 1200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. The embodiments described herein can be implemented in the communication system 1200 using any appropriately configured hardware and / or software. Figure 7A communication system 1200 is shown, which includes radio frequency (RF) circuitry 1210, baseband circuitry 1220, application circuitry 1230, memory / storage device 1240, display 1250, camera 1260, sensor 1270, and input / output (I / O) interface 1280, and these components are coupled to each other at least as shown.

[0085] Application circuitry 1230 may include circuitry such as, but not limited to, one or more single-core or multi-core processors. The processor may include any combination of general-purpose processors and special-purpose processors (e.g., graphics processors, application processors). The processor may be coupled to a memory / storage device and configured to execute instructions stored in the memory / storage device to enable various applications and / or operating systems to operate on the system. Communication system 1200 may execute program code that configures application circuitry 1230 to perform the aforementioned... Figures 1 to 5 The program code may reside in application circuit 1230 or any suitable computer-readable medium and may be executed by application circuit 1230 or any other suitable processor.

[0086] The baseband circuit 1220 may include circuitry such as, but not limited to, one or more single-core or multi-core processors. The processor may include a baseband processor. The baseband circuitry can handle various radio control functions that may be able to communicate with one or more radio networks via RF circuitry. Radio control functions may include, but are not limited to, signal modulation, encoding, decoding, and RF conversion. In some embodiments, the baseband circuitry can provide communication compatible with one or more radio technologies. For example, in some embodiments, the baseband circuitry may support communication with: evolved universal terrestrial radio access network (EUTRAN) and / or other wireless metropolitan area networks (WMAN), wireless local area networks (WLAN), and wireless personal area networks (WPAN). Embodiments in which the baseband circuitry is configured to support radio communication using multiple wireless protocols may be referred to as multi-mode baseband circuitry.

[0087] In various embodiments, baseband circuitry 1220 may include circuitry for processing signals that are not strictly considered to be at a baseband frequency. For example, in some embodiments, the baseband circuitry may include circuitry for processing intermediate frequency (IF) signals that lie between the baseband frequency and the radio frequency (RF). RF circuitry 1210 may be able to communicate with a wireless network using modulated electromagnetic radiation over a non-solid-state medium. In various embodiments, RF circuitry may include switches, filters, amplifiers, etc., to facilitate communication with a wireless network. In various embodiments, RF circuitry 1210 may include circuitry for processing signals that are not strictly considered to be at the radio frequency (RF). For example, in some embodiments, RF circuitry may include circuitry for processing intermediate frequency (IF) signals that lie between the baseband frequency and the RF frequency.

[0088] In various embodiments, the above-mentioned... Figures 1 to 5 In some embodiments, transmitter circuitry, control circuitry, or receiver circuitry may be wholly or partially embodied in one or more of RF circuitry, baseband circuitry, and / or application circuitry. As used herein, “circuit” may refer to, and is a part of, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), electronic circuitry, processors (shared, dedicated, or grouped) and / or memories (shared, dedicated, or grouped), combinational logic circuitry, and / or other suitable hardware components providing the aforementioned functionality, wherein the processor and memory are used to execute one or more software or firmware programs. In some embodiments, electronic device circuitry may be implemented in one or more software or firmware modules, or the functionality associated with such circuitry may be implemented by one or more software or firmware modules. In some embodiments, some or all components of the baseband circuitry, application circuitry, and / or memory / storage device may be implemented together on a system on a chip (SOC). Memory / storage device 1240 may be used to load and store, for example, data and / or instructions for the system. One embodiment of the memory / storage device may include any combination of suitable volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM)) and / or non-volatile memory (e.g., flash memory).

[0089] In various embodiments, I / O interface 1280 may include one or more user interfaces designed to enable users to interact with the system; and / or peripheral component interfaces designed to enable peripheral components to interact with the system. User interfaces may include, but are not limited to, physical keyboards or keypads, touchpads, speakers, microphones, etc. Peripheral component interfaces may include, but are not limited to, non-volatile memory ports, universal serial bus (USB) ports, audio jacks, and power interfaces. In various embodiments, sensor 1270 may include one or more sensing devices for determining environmental conditions and / or location information relevant to the system. In some embodiments, sensors may include, but are not limited to, gyroscope sensors, accelerometers, proximity sensors, ambient light sensors, and positioning units. Positioning units may also be part of, or interact with, baseband and / or RF circuitry to communicate with components of a positioning network, such as Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites.

[0090] In various embodiments, display 1250 may include a display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touchscreen display. In various embodiments, communication system 1200 may be a mobile computing device, such as, but not limited to, a laptop, tablet, netbook, ultrabook, smartphone, AR / VR glasses, etc. In various embodiments, the system may have more or fewer components and / or different architectures. Where appropriate, the methods described herein may be implemented in the form of a computer program. The computer program may be stored on a storage medium, such as a non-transitory storage medium.

[0091] Those skilled in the art will understand that each unit, algorithm, and step described and disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure is implemented using electronic hardware or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether a function operates in hardware or software depends on the application conditions and the design requirements of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the functions of each specific application, but these implementations should not exceed the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that they can refer to the workflow of the systems, devices, and units in the above embodiments, as the workflows of the above systems, devices, and units are substantially the same. For ease of description and simplification, these workflows will not be described in detail.

[0092] It is understood that the systems, apparatuses, and methods disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented in other ways. The embodiments described above are merely exemplary. The division of units is based solely on logical function, while other divisions exist in practical applications. Multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system. Some features may also be omitted or skipped. On the other hand, the mutual coupling, direct coupling, or communication coupling shown or discussed, whether implemented indirectly or communicatively through electrical, mechanical, or other means, operates through certain ports, devices, or units.

[0093] The units used for explanation may or may not be physically separated. The units used for display may or may not be physical units, meaning that these units may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Depending on the purpose of the embodiment, some or all of these units may be used. Furthermore, the functional units in each embodiment may be integrated into a single processing unit, and may be physically independent or integrated into a single processing unit with two or more units.

[0094] If a software functional unit is implemented, used, and sold as a product, then that software functional unit can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions proposed in this disclosure can be implemented substantially or partially in the form of a software product. Alternatively, a portion of a technical solution advantageous to conventional technology can be implemented in the form of a software product. The software product in the computer is stored in a storage medium, and the software product includes multiple commands for causing a computing device (e.g., a personal computer, server, or network device) to perform all or part of the steps disclosed in the embodiments of this disclosure. The storage medium includes a USB disk, a portable hard drive, a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), a floppy disk, or other types of media capable of storing program code.

[0095] While this disclosure has been described in conjunction with embodiments that are considered to be the most practical and preferred, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover various arrangements made without departing from the broadest interpretation of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method performed by an energy broker function, EBF, service consumer for managing energy related information in a communication network, the method comprising: subscribing by the EBF service consumer to an EBF for receiving notifications of energy efficiency, EE, information or energy consumption, EC, information, and unsubscribing from the EBF for stopping receiving notifications of the EE information or the EC information; and requesting and obtaining by the EBF service consumer from the EBF the EE information or the EC information. Exposing the EE information or the EC information to an application function, AF, or an application server, AS, is via a network exposure function, NEF, by utilizing the subscription to the EBF for the EE information or the EC information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Exposing the EE information or the EC information to an application function, AF, or an application server, AS, is via a network exposure function, NEF, by utilizing the request to the EBF for the EE information or the EC information.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The EE information or the EC information focuses on user plane indicators, including user plane function, UPF, protocol data unit, PDU, session, quality of service, QoS, flow, and / or packet detection function, PDF, flow.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The EE information or the EC information includes a plurality of performance counters, and a sum of the plurality of performance counters is a weighted sum of transactions, where transactions with higher energy consumption are given a greater weight.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein, The EBF service consumer requests the EBF to compute energy efficiency indicators for a network slice.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein, The EBF service consumer requests energy consumption information for a network function, NF, by providing a NF instance ID, NF set ID, or NF type.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein, The EBF service consumer requests the EBF to identify NF instances serving a specific user based on a provided subscription permanent identifier, SUPI.

8. The method of claim 1, wherein, The EBF service consumer interacts with the EBF implemented as a standalone 5G core, 5GC, NF, a sub-function of an existing NF, or a sub-function of a newly defined 5GC NF, for managing the EE information or the EC information in a 5GC network.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein, 10. A method performed by an energy broker function, EBF, for managing energy related information in a communication network, the method comprising: providing by the EBF a subscription service for notifying energy efficiency, EE, information or energy consumption, EC, information to EBF service consumers, and enabling the EBF service consumers to unsubscribe from notifications of the EE information or the EC information; and responding by the EBF to requests from the EBF service consumers for obtaining the EE information or the EC information. The EBF exposes the EE information or the EC information to an application function, AF, or an application server, AS, via a network exposure function, NEF, by utilizing the subscription to the EE information or the EC information. The EBF exposes the EE information or the EC information to an application function, AF, or an application server, AS, via a network exposure function, NEF, by utilizing the request to the EE information or the EC information.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein, ​ 12. The method of claim 10, wherein, ​ 13. The method of claim 10, wherein, The EE information or the EC information provided by the EBF focuses on user plane indicators, including user plane function (UPF), protocol data unit (PDU) session, quality of service (QoS) flow, and / or packet detection function (PDF) flow.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein, The EE information or the EC information provided by the EBF includes a plurality of performance counters, and a sum of the plurality of performance counters is a weighted sum of transactions, wherein a transaction with higher energy consumption is assigned a greater weight.

15. The method of claim 10, wherein, The EBF calculates an energy efficiency indicator of a network slice according to a request of an EBF service consumer.

16. The method of claim 10, wherein, The EBF provides energy consumption information of a network function (NF) by processing a NF instance ID, NF set ID, or NF type provided by the EBF service consumer.

17. The method of claim 10, wherein, The EBF identifies a NF instance serving a specific user based on a provided subscription permanent identifier (SUPI) according to a request of the EBF service consumer.

18. The method of claim 10, wherein, The EBF operates as an independent 5G core (5GC) network function (NF), a sub-function of an existing NF, or a sub-function of a newly defined 5GC NF, so as to manage the EE information or the EC information in a 5GC network.

19. An energy broker function (EBF) service consumer, comprising: a memory; a transceiver; and a processor coupled with the memory and the transceiver; wherein the EBF service consumer is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

20. An energy broker function (EBF), comprising: a memory; a transceiver; and a processor coupled with the memory and the transceiver; wherein the EBF is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

21. A non-transitory machine readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon, which when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

22. A chip, comprising: a processor configured to invoke and run a computer program stored in a memory to cause a device installed with the chip to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

23. A computer readable storage medium having stored therein a computer program, wherein, The computer program causes a computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

24. A computer program product comprising a computer program, wherein, The computer program causes a computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

25. A computer program, wherein, The computer program causes a computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18. The computer program causes a computer to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 9 or the method according to any one of claims 10 to 18.

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