COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK NODE, METHOD IMPLEMENTED IN A COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK NODE, USER EQUIPMENT, METHOD IMPLEMENTED IN A USER EQUIPMENT, COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM, METHOD IMPLEMENTED IN A COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM

Abstract

A communications network node, a method implemented in a communications network node, a user equipment, a method implemented in a user equipment, a communications system, and a method implemented in a communications system are provided. The present disclosure relates to a communications network node comprising circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on trip data of the user and at least one route option for the trip.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a communications network node for providing a distributed ledger (e.g., a blockchain), a method implemented in a communications network node, a user equipment, a method implemented in a user equipment, a communications system, and a method implemented in a communications system. [Background technology]

[0002] It is generally known to distribute ledgers on multiple nodes, such as entities that record digital transactions, e.g. electronic devices, servers, etc. Distributed ledgers can be based on known blockchain technology, such as the known cryptocurrency Bitcoin, but also the known Ethereum project, etc. In general, distributed ledgers can be implemented with technologies other than blockchain technology, and examples of distributed ledger projects that are not based on blockchain include BigchainDB and IOTA. For example, IOTA is a cryptocurrency that uses linked lists.

[0003] Furthermore, Mobility as a Service (MaaS) is known, where a user or passenger uses Mobility as a Service without owning, for example, a car. Mobility as a Service can combine public (trains, buses, etc.) and private (car sharing, bike sharing, etc.) mobility services from associated operators or providers.

[0004] Known MaaS solutions typically involve a central, unified gateway where trips or journeys are planned and booked, and users can pay through a single account. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Whilst technologies exist for providing distributed ledgers and MaaS, it would generally be desirable to provide communications network nodes, methods implemented in communications network nodes, user equipment, methods implemented in user equipment, communications systems, and methods implemented in communications systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a communications network node comprising circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on trip data of the user and at least one route option for the trip.

[0007] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a method implemented in a communications network node for calculating an environmental cost of a trip of a user based on travel data of the user and at least one route option for the trip.

[0008] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node, the user equipment comprising circuitry configured to obtain an environmental cost for the user's trip calculated based on a user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip.

[0009] According to a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, implemented in user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node, for obtaining an environmental cost for a journey of the user, the environmental cost being calculated based on journey data of the user and at least one route option for the journey.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect, the present disclosure provides a communications system comprising a communications network node and circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a user's journey based on the user's journey data and at least one route option for the journey.

[0011] According to a sixth aspect, the present disclosure provides a method, implemented in a communication system comprising a communication network node, for calculating an environmental cost of a user's journey based on travel data of the user and at least one route option for the journey.

[0012] Further aspects are set forth in the dependent claims, the following description and the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 shows an overview of a system according to the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates a method according to the present disclosure that allows route / transportation selection based on environmental costs. [Diagram 3] 1 illustrates one embodiment of a method according to the present disclosure for recording environmental costs using a blockchain common database. [Figure 4] A method for providing environmental incentives to users is shown. [Diagram 5] A method 40 for calculating individual environmental costs is presented. [Figure 6] 1 shows a flow chart illustrating how to calculate environmental cost factors according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] A diagram showing CO2 emissions versus number of passengers when traveling by car is shown. [Figure 8] A diagram showing CO2 emissions versus number of passengers when traveling by rail is shown below. [Figure 9] For comparison, a superimposed graph showing the graphs of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 is shown. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates a method according to the present disclosure for calculating environmental costs taking into account marginal costs. [Figure 11] 1 shows a flow chart of a method according to the present disclosure for calculating environmental costs. [Figure 12] 1 shows a flowchart of a method according to the present disclosure for providing conditional reservations. [Figure 13]1 illustrates a method of providing alternative transportation according to the present disclosure. [Figure 14] This shows the general data structure of a blockchain. [Figure 15] The input and output of the hash function are shown below. [Figure 16] The PBFT process is illustrated below. [Figure 17] 1 illustrates one embodiment of a general purpose computer. [Figure 18] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a user equipment and an eNodeB. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0015] Before proceeding with a detailed description of the embodiment starting with FIG. 1, a general description will be provided.

[0016] Below are definitions of some terms that may be applied in some embodiments (this disclosure is not limited to the definitions provided below. The technical field of MaaS and distributed ledgers is very dynamic, and definitions may change in the future, so the definitions are merely an example to facilitate understanding of the present embodiment).

[0017] Environmental costs may refer to the costs (monetary or otherwise) associated with the actual or potential degradation of natural assets due to economic activity. Such costs may be defined differently in different contexts. For example, they may be defined as causal costs, i.e. costs associated with an economic agent causing actual or potential environmental degradation through its activities, or as burdened costs, i.e. costs incurred by an economic agent regardless of whether it actually causes an environmental load.

[0018] Emissions may refer to the release of greenhouse gases (methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, etc.) and / or their precursors into the Earth's atmosphere over a particular region and time period.

[0019] Micromobility can refer to small and lightweight vehicles (different to rickshaws) such as bicycles, electric scooters, electric skateboards, bike-shares, and electric-assist bicycles, which typically travel at speeds of 25 km / h or less and are personally driven by the user.

[0020] Marginal cost can refer to the additional cost incurred in producing one more unit of a good or service. It can be derived from the variable cost of production since fixed costs do not change with changes in production volume, so if production has already begun, there is no additional fixed cost incurred in producing one more unit of a good or service.

[0021] The term "distributed ledger" can be found in the Wikipedia definition: "A distributed ledger (also known as a shared ledger, distributed ledger technology, or DLT) is a consensus of replicated, shared, synchronized digital data across multiple geographic sites, countries, or institutions. There is no central administrator or centralized data storage."

[0022] Distributed ledger technology and its special example, namely the blockchain technology, are also described further below. More generally, the term distributed ledger is used as a type of database that shares digitally recorded data among several nodes of a network. It may also consist of a peer-to-peer network. A distributed ledger can be public and accessible to anyone, but in principle it can also be private and accessible only to authorized users. It is also possible to differentiate between layers of access rights to the data on the ledger.

[0023] Distributed ledgers can use mechanisms known from blockchain technology, for example as used in Bitcoin. Such mechanisms include heuristics, consensus mechanisms, mechanisms to ensure data consistency, etc. A consensus mechanism ensures that all nodes with a copy of the distributed ledger, or a certain number of nodes (usually electronic devices), reach a consensus on the contents of the distributed ledger. There are various consensus mechanisms, such as so-called proof-of-work cryptographic puzzles, or mechanisms that make it impossible to (easily) change old blocks in the blockchain. For example, proof-of-work is used in the mining process of the Bitcoin blockchain.

[0024] In a distributed ledger or blockchain, a confirmation process that forms a consensus among participating nodes on data updates on the blockchain, called the mining process, can achieve irreversibility of transaction sequences recorded on the blockchain by including previously recorded data in the confirmation data. Such a mining process implements a distributed timestamp server for new blocks of transactions. In Bitcoin (and thus in some embodiments), the mining process is based on the SHA·256 hash function. Blockchain nodes participating in the mining process search for a hash output that has predefined properties, while the input of the hash function depends on the current block of the blockchain and the new block of transactions to be added to the blockchain.

[0025] Proof-of-work computations based on hash functions may not be useful in themselves, except as they are necessary to implement irreversibility in distributed ledgers.

[0026] Moreover, it is generally known to use blockchain to store various data: for example, images, videos, measurements, text files, etc. can be recorded on the blockchain in the form of transactions.

[0027] The term "Mobility as a Service (MaaS)" is exemplarily known from the Wikipedia definition: "Mobility as a Service (MaaS) represents a shift from privately owned transportation to mobility solutions consumed as a service. It is achieved by combining transportation services offered by public and private transportation providers through a unified gateway that creates and manages trips, and users can pay for them through one account. Users can pay per trip or pay a monthly fee for a limited distance. The key concept behind MaaS is to provide mobility solutions to movers based on their mobility needs." The term "mobility service provider" may be a MaaS umbrella name for any type of service provider. In some embodiments, it is typically a mobility operator such as a rail company, bus / minibus, tram, taxi, car sharing, ride sharing, bike sharing, etc. Some mobility service providers do not provide actual transportation, but only provide reservations / arrangements comparable to a travel agency, online booking site, etc. Mobility service providers (or MaaS providers) may also be referred to as "mobility operators" in some embodiments.

[0028] The term "passenger" may refer to a person who has a service agreement with a home mobility service provider or who is a user of a home mobility service provider (defined below).

[0029] The term "user" may include a passenger or another person who may book travel for the passenger.

[0030] MaaS has the potential to address social issues and improve customer experience.

[0031] It has also been recognized that it is not possible to reduce the environmental impact of transportation (e.g. private or public transportation) using MaaS.

[0032] Transportation can be considered a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions such as CO2 (carbon dioxide) and other greenhouse gases such as nitrogen oxides. In addition, there can be other environmental burdens due to (public and / or private) transportation, such as road and aircraft noise, and the consumption of natural resources such as fuel and rare earths.

[0033] However, it may not be so easy for passengers to realize the real environmental costs of their travel. At a macro level, such as city or country, statistics about transport may be available, but passengers may not know the environmental impact of each trip. We see a need to make the environmental impact visible to passengers at a micro level, for example at personal level (for each individual or group), for each trip, series of trips, per month, per type of transport, etc.

[0034] MaaS can help raise awareness of environmental impacts at a micro level, which could lead to changes in individual behavior by making the environmental impact more clearly visible.

[0035] Various strategies can be applied to reduce the environmental impact, for example by raising passenger awareness of the environmental costs of travel (such as CO2 emissions) and / or offering incentives for certain passenger behaviors that reduce environmental costs.

[0036] Accordingly, some embodiments relate to a communications network node comprising circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip.

[0037] The communication network node may include a computer, a server, a terminal device, etc. Also, a plurality of such components (e.g., a plurality of servers, which may also be coupled to terminal devices, etc.) may be envisaged. In general, the communication network node is in some embodiments not a physical node, and the functionality may be provided by software on a cloud service. The communication network node may be virtualized and provided, for example, by a software-based solution. For example, the software-based functionality may be deployed on a commercial cloud service (public cloud), on-premise cloud (private cloud), Multi-access Edge Computing (MEC) of a communication network operator, etc.

[0038] The communication network nodes and / or circuits may be used for a centralized database or a distributed ledger or both.

[0039] Thus, in some embodiments, the communications network node is further configured to operate a distributed ledger.

[0040] In some embodiments, the communication network node is further configured to handle a centralized database.Figure 1 shows an overview of a system 1 comprising a network node according to the present disclosure.

[0041] The system 1 includes multiple MaaS subsystems, such as an end user entity 2 (e.g., a user's mobile / terminal device), a mobility management system 2, a personal data management system (PDM) 3, a blockchain common database 4, a MaaS service provider system 5, and a DID ledger 6.

[0042] The end user entity 2 may be configured to provide a user interface and management of mobility services to an end user who has a contract with the MaaS service operator. The end user entity 2 may include a smartphone application or a web service for the end user, etc.

[0043] With respect to storage and private (anonymous) use of MaaS, the following may apply, without limiting this disclosure:

[0044] Some embodiments relate to a terminal device comprising circuitry configured to authenticate a user of the terminal device at a communications network node, such that the communications network node requests an anonymous identifier to provide an anonymous identification of the user to a mobility service provider, the request being directed to the communications network node for providing a distributed ledger.

[0045] The end user entity 2 (eg, a terminal device) may further provide at least one of the following functions in some embodiments: Sending end-user requests (including destinations) to MaaS service providers - MaaS service providers display route options, costs, travel times, etc. from the departure point to the destination Send the selection result (i.e., the route selected by the user) to the MaaS service provider Receive navigation data for the selected route and provide guidance to the end user End users can confirm additional payments if necessary (e.g., if the charges exceed the allowance of the MaaS service, such as taxi or first class transportation) Track the end user's current location during the journey and send trip events such as passing through a station ticket barrier, boarding / arriving at a train / tram / bus (to another destination or any other given vehicle), arriving at an intermediate point, etc. Detecting arrival at a destination and initiating the trip completion process once the end user has reached their destination

[0046] The mobility management system 3 may be configured to coordinate / negotiate with multiple mobility operators (eg bus, tram, subway, rail, taxi, bike sharing, etc.) so that multi-modal mobility services are provided.

[0047] In some embodiments, the mobility management system 3 may provide at least one of the following functions: · Search for routes / transit facilities based on end-user requirements and / or other criteria such as preferred transport facilities. Search for multiple route options (if there is more than one) and provide them to the end-user. Matching supply and demand between mobile operators and end users, e.g. finding available seats, variable pricing based on peak conditions, etc. Determining the route and transportation means based on the End User's choice / consent and / or seat reservation / arrangement with the travel operator (if a reservation is required) Generate and serve supporting information, such as directions and navigation data, to end-user entities Tracking user events and current travel status during the journey (typically, predefined (travel) events are tracked). For example, when an end user passes through a station ticket barrier (e.g. based on NFC), this is detected and a travel event is generated, or any other travel event as described above. Revenue share calculation for the travel operator / mobility service provider at the end of the trip

[0048] Thus, some embodiments relate to a communications network node for providing a mobility management provider, the communications network node comprising circuitry configured to provide route candidates to a user based on a request of the user issued based on an anonymous identifier for providing an anonymous identification of the user to a mobility service provider, the anonymous identifier being generated based on a request of the personal data management provider to a distributed ledger.

[0049] The personal data management (PDM) system 4 may be configured to manage data of MaaS registrants. The personal data management (PDM) system 4 may be responsible for at least one of the following functions: Handle subscriptions / contracts for MaaS services User authentication and / or authentication of MaaS services -Handling of globally unique DIDs and anonymous DIDs. Note that only PDM4 knows the relationship between globally unique IDs and anonymous IDs. Therefore, PDM4 can also request the issuance of anonymous IDs. Store your payment information (e.g. credit card information) and process your payment when requested Remember the end user's travel / transportation preferences, e.g. preferred / unpreferred transport systems, (first) class travel, wheelchair access, and other special conditions of the user Store travel history information. Update the history information when the trip is completed. The history information may include at least one of frequent destinations, frequent starting points, intermediate points, etc.

[0050] Because personal data may be sensitive, PDM4 may only share personal data with user consent or may not share personal data at all.

[0051] Thus, some embodiments relate to a communications network node comprising circuitry configured to request an anonymous identifier from a mobility service provider for providing an anonymous identification of a user of a mobility management provider, the request being directed to the communications network node for providing a distributed ledger.

[0052] The blockchain common database 5 can be configured to read / write MaaS transactions to the distributed ledger (blockchain). Transactions can be recorded when MaaS events occur.

[0053] For example, it may record / store / execute at least one of the following: Anonymous DID (end user ID) Date and time stamps of trips and / or contracts and / or travel events MaaS subscription / contract type (monthly, daily, pay-as-you-go, etc.) - In case of one-time tickets, confirmation of ticket rights (e-ticket) Locations / events (starting point, stopover, intermediate destination, final destination, passing through ticket gates, boarding / arriving at train, leaving station) Travel beyond the allowable limits of MaaS (additional fees, etc.) Travel expenses and mobility operators (mobility service providers) for revenue share calculations

[0054] Thus, some embodiments relate to a communications network node for providing a distributed ledger, the communications network node comprising circuitry configured to store a generated anonymous identifier in the distributed ledger for providing a mobility service provider with an anonymous identification of a user of a mobility management provider, the anonymous identifier being generated based on a request of a personal data management provider to the distributed ledger.

[0055] The mobility service provider system 6 may be configured to handle transportation service operations at a mobility operator / MaaS service provider. The mobility service provider system 6 may be further configured for at least one of the following: · Accept anonymous DID Provide end-users with support information for route selection. Search for route candidates and timetables based on end-user input. Once the user selects the route, book the trip and issue the ticket entitlement (e-ticket) Fare management. Trip fare calculation. Check and record transportation boarding / arrival, gate passage, valid e-ticket Recording (travel) events during a journey. For example, a mobility operator detects an end user passing through a railway station gate and the event is recorded in a common database. Trip termination: Once the trip is completed, a revenue distribution calculation is performed and recorded in a common blockchain database5.

[0056] Thus, some embodiments relate to a communications network node for providing a mobility service provider, the communications network node comprising circuitry configured to accept an anonymous identifier of a user for booking a trip with the mobility service provider, the anonymous identifier being generated to provide the mobility service provider with an anonymous identification of a user of the mobility management provider, the anonymous identifier being generated based on a request of the personal data management provider to a distributed ledger.

[0057] The DID / SSI ledger 7 can be configured to handle the issuance and validation of DIDs requested by third parties.

[0058] The DID / SSI ledger 7 may be based on a blockchain for DID / SSIs, but may be different from the common blockchain database 5. The DID / SSI ledger 7 may be responsible for at least one of the following: · Issue permanent, globally unique DIDs and temporary, anonymous DIDs Issuing credentials using globally unique or anonymous DIDs (e.g. e-tickets, proof of MaaS subscription, proof of driver's license, entry visas to certain countries, etc.) Verifying credentials requested by a third party, for example a train company checking the validity of an e-ticket or a car-sharing company checking the conditions of a driver's license Deactivation / revocation of credentials, e.g. when an end user uses a one-time e-ticket, the date expires, the user unsubscribes from the MaaS service, or any other predefined event

[0059] This allows the DID / SSI ledger 7 to function as a distributed ledger that issues anonymous DIDs, as described above.

[0060] Some embodiments relate to corresponding methods that, when executed, cause each entity to function as an entity as described herein, eg, as a terminal device, a communications network node, etc.

[0061] For example, some embodiments relate to a method of providing a communications network node for providing a distributed ledger, the method comprising generating an anonymous identifier for providing an anonymous identification of a user of a mobility management provider to a mobility service provider, the anonymous identifier being generated based on a request of a personal data management provider for the distributed ledger.

[0062] Some embodiments relate to a method of providing a communications network node for requesting an anonymous identifier for providing an anonymous identification of a user of a mobility management provider to a mobility service provider, the request being directed to the communications network node for providing a distributed ledger.

[0063] Some embodiments relate to a method of operating a terminal device, authenticating a user of the terminal device at a communications network node such that the communications network node requests an anonymous identifier for providing an anonymous identification of the user to a mobility service provider, the request being directed to the communications network node for providing a distributed ledger.

[0064] Some embodiments relate to a method of providing a communications network node for providing a mobility management provider providing route candidates to a user based on a user request issued based on an anonymous identifier to provide an anonymous identification of the user to a mobility service provider, the anonymous identifier being generated based on a personal data management provider request to a distributed ledger.

[0065] Some embodiments relate to a method of providing a communications network node for providing a distributed ledger, storing generated anonymous identifiers in the distributed ledger for providing a mobility service provider with anonymous identities of users of a mobility management provider, the anonymous identifiers being generated based on a request of a personal data management provider.

[0066] Some embodiments relate to a method of providing a communications network node for providing a mobility service provider that accepts an anonymous identifier of a user for booking a trip with the mobility service provider, the anonymous identifier being generated to provide the mobility service provider with an anonymous identification of a user of a mobility management provider, the anonymous identifier being generated based on a request of a personal data management provider to a distributed ledger.

[0067] As mentioned above, some embodiments relate to a communications network node comprising circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip.

[0068] Environmental costs can be a more general term for the actual or potential costs incurred by mobility. There can be direct costs and indirect costs.

[0069] For example, CO2 emissions can be defined in units of "CO2kg / km per passenger", and similarly other emissions can be defined by units such as "NO2kg / km per passenger".

[0070] Such emissions may be measurable environmental factors and therefore such costs may be direct costs: in the case of greenhouse gases, the amount of emissions into the atmosphere can be measured, and in the case of noise emissions, the noise level (in dB) of a particular mode of transport can be calculated.

[0071] Indirect costs can refer to environmental factors that are either immeasurable or difficult to measure, such as losses from traffic accidents, causes of traffic congestion, consumption of hazardous materials (such as lead in batteries), and physical resources (e.g. land use for road construction).

[0072] Such overhead costs can be translated into quantities that allow their environmental impact to be calculated, for example quantified based on risk levels such as high, medium or low risk of an accident.

[0073] Additionally, the environmental cost may be calculated based on at least one predetermined factor.

[0074] For example, it can be difficult to directly (individually) measure the CO2 emissions of public transport services, as they run to timetables regardless of the number of passengers.

[0075] In such cases, CO2 emissions can be expressed for each mode of transport by averaging based on passenger numbers and / or distance, e.g. kilograms per person per kilometre (or more generally, per person per distance).

[0076] In some embodiments, the communications network node is further configured to use a predefined table for calculating the environmental cost.

[0077] For example, as is commonly known, a conversion table may be used to calculate the amount of CO2 emissions.

[0078] Micromobility may also incur environmental costs, but such costs may be small compared to other types of transportation. Generally, the costs incurred by micromobility are considered to be zero (without limiting this disclosure in that respect), but the distances that passengers are willing to tolerate for using micromobility may vary. For example, one passenger may be willing to walk (or bike) for 20 minutes, while another passenger may only be willing to walk (or bike) for 5 minutes.

[0079] Therefore, offering micromobility may not be possible in all cases. The passenger's preferences regarding micromobility can be stored in the personal data management system so that the MaaS service provider can offer micromobility in line with the passenger's preferences.

[0080] In some embodiments, the environmental cost is calculated based on at least one of the following: mode of transport, distance, travel time, energy source, and environmental cost factor.

[0081] In some embodiments, an environmental cost is calculated for different trips suggested to a user.

[0082] FIG. 2 illustrates a method 10 according to the present disclosure in which route / transportation selection is performed based on environmental costs.

[0083] In this embodiment, the MaaS system indicates the environmental cost of the passenger when the passenger selects the route / transportation mode. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the environmental cost is predefined in a table and stored in the storage unit. Thus, the MaaS system includes an environmental cost database 11 that stores the cost coefficients for calculating the environmental cost.

[0084] At 12, an end user (eg, a passenger) inputs a destination (eg, also a starting point if different from the current location).

[0085] The mobility management system 3 requests the service and requests its authentication.

[0086] At 13, the Personal Data Management System 4 authorizes the service if it is within the scope of the user's MaaS contract. The Personal Data Management System 4 can store previous travel preferences / history and send these back to the Mobility Management System 3 in addition to the authorization results.

[0087] At 14, the mobility management system 3 requests the mobility service provider system 6 to search for route candidates, cost estimates, estimated time of arrival etc. If there are multiple alternative routes / transport modes, it requests multiple mobility operators.

[0088] At 15, the mobility service provider system 6 finds the route and sends back the mode of transport, route, distance and other travel information such as fare and travel time that the user may consider.

[0089] The mobility management system 3 requests the environmental cost coefficients from the database 11 which retrieves the coefficients at 16 and transmits them to the mobility management system 3 .

[0090] The mobility management system 3 calculates the environmental cost of a trip, for example based on the formula: coefficient (eg CO2kg / passenger km) x distance of trip x number of passengers.

[0091] The mobility management system 3 transmits the candidate routes and conditions, including environmental costs, to the end user entity 2 which, at 18, displays the routes and conditions to the user so that the user can compare and select the candidate routes and conditions, including environmental costs.

[0092] FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of a method 20 for recording environmental costs for travel using a blockchain common database as one embodiment of a distributed ledger, although this disclosure is not limited in this respect as any database, such as a relational database, may be used.

[0093] Once the passenger has arrived at their final destination (e.g. detected by a train station gate, geofencing technology of the destination area, etc.), at 21 the end user entity 2 sends an end of journey event to the mobility management system 3. Note that in cases where the arrival can be known by the mobility operator (e.g. air travel), the mobility service provider system may detect the end of the journey.

[0094] The mobility management system 3 then sends a request to the mobility service provider system 6 for the trip termination process.

[0095] The mobility service provider system 6 closes the trip and sends confirmation back to the end user at 22. If additional payments or refunds are required, payments / adjustments can be handled by the personal data management system 4.

[0096] The mobility service provider system 6 closes the ticket and notifies the SSI / DID ledger 7 to close the e-ticket at 23.

[0097] The mobility service provider system 6 calculates the environmental cost for each trip based on the coefficient x distance x number of passengers (or the load of goods in the case of goods transportation).

[0098] At 25, the mobility service provider system 6 prepares a record of the trip (e.g. environmental costs, fare, time, transportation provider, anonymous ID, etc.) and the mobility service provider writes the record to the common blockchain database 5 at 26.

[0099] In some embodiments, the circuit or communication network node is further configured to determine whether a total environmental cost of the user in a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0100] As mentioned above, various strategies can be employed to improve the environmental behavior of users. While in relation to Figures 2 and 3 we made users aware of environmental costs, Figure 4 provides a method 30 for providing environmental incentives to users.

[0101] For example, incentives can be set by giving discounts on tickets depending on the level of environmental cost reduction. Such methods may be applicable to pay-per-use services.

[0102] However, MaaS services may be on a monthly subscription basis, i.e. a fixed fee for a month. Therefore, another way to provide incentives may be based on a monthly (or annual or daily, etc.) allowance of environmental costs. If the total environmental costs for a month are less than the allowance, a reward (e.g. cashback) may be provided based on the difference between the allowance and the total environmental costs.

[0103] There can be a wide variety of reward schemes, such as purchase discounts, mileage programs, etc. In what follows, we will not focus on the reward scheme itself, but on how to obtain the total environmental cost for a month and ensure that this does not exceed an acceptable range.

[0104] In the method 30 of Fig. 4, at 31, the personal data management system 4 requests the monthly environmental cost from the mobility management system 3 by the passenger ID. Note that the passenger ID on the blockchain is anonymized from the viewpoint of protecting personally identifiable information, as described above.

[0105] At 32, the mobility management system 3 requests trip records including environmental costs by passenger ID and time period (e.g., April 1 to April 30) from the common blockchain database 5. If this data is stored in different databases, this process is repeated multiple times.

[0106] The blockchain database 5 searches 33 for records of previous trips by passenger ID and time period.

[0107] The mobility management system 3 calculates the total environmental cost at 34 .

[0108] The mobility management system 3 notifies the result (total monthly environmental cost) to the personal data management system 4.

[0109] The personal data management system checks whether the total monthly environmental costs exceed a monthly tolerance.

[0110] The personal data management system 4 awards a reward if it is determined at 35 that the total cost does not exceed an acceptable range.

[0111] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to obtain energy data from an energy provider network node.

[0112] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to communicate with a network node of an environmental cost database for recording the energy data.

[0113] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to obtain an environmental cost factor for calculating the environmental cost.

[0114] In some embodiments, the environmental cost factor is obtained based on the mode of travel.

[0115] In contrast to the above example, the environmental cost coefficients do not necessarily have to be fixed (ie taken from a table).

[0116] The actual environmental cost may depend on various factors, such as the type of energy, the type of road (e.g., highway or not), the vehicle type, the engine type, etc. In some embodiments, a fixed value may be an oversimplified approach, while realistic values ​​may be considered, as explained below.

[0117] For example, environmental cost factors can be dynamically defined based on actual energy consumption and driving conditions. Furthermore, there may also be hidden environmental costs. For example, an electric vehicle may appear to have zero CO2 emissions compared to a conventional vehicle with an internal combustion engine. However, electric vehicles may also indirectly emit CO2 because fossil fuels are used to generate electricity.

[0118] Accordingly, FIG. 5 illustrates a method 40 for calculating individual environmental costs.

[0119] At 43, a mobility service provider system 6 (eg, a railroad company) requests energy (eg, electricity, diesel fuel, etc.) from an energy provider 42 (eg, a power company).

[0120] At 44 , the energy provider 42 supplies energy to the mobility service provider system 6 .

[0121] Further, at 45, the energy provider 42 records the energy source information in the energy database 41. For example, the following data can be recorded: type of energy (e.g. electricity, diesel fuel), amount of fuel, additional information on environmental costs (e.g. CO2 emissions if electricity is generated by fossil fuels), mobility service provider consuming the energy (e.g. running a train).

[0122] At 46 the mobility service provider system 6 records the consumption of energy. For example the following data may be stored: energy consumption, type of fuel (e.g. electricity, diesel fuel), consumption, emission equivalents (e.g. for internal combustion engines the environmental cost depends on the vehicle model, engine type etc. e.g. older diesel engines may emit more CO2 and NOx than newer diesel engines), additional information to calculate the environmental cost, distance traveled, number of passengers and / or luggage, noise level.

[0123] The mobility service provider system 6 calculates the energy consumption and similarly transmits the energy consumption to an environmental cost database for recording at 47. In this embodiment, the environmental cost database is based on a Distributed Ledger (DLT). However, in accordance with the present disclosure, the environmental cost database may additionally or alternatively be based on a centralized database such as a Relational Database Service (RDS).

[0124] Also, at 48, the mobility management system 3 requests the environmental cost coefficients from the environmental cost database 41 (eg via an environmental coefficient database or directly).

[0125] The environmental cost database 41 provides energy source information and energy consumption information to the environmental cost coefficient database 11, as described with respect to FIG. 6, to cause the environmental cost coefficients to be calculated at 49.

[0126] The environmental cost coefficient database 11 then provides the environmental cost coefficients to the mobility management system.

[0127] FIG. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating how the environmental cost coefficient database 11 calculates the environmental cost coefficients.

[0128] At 51 , the energy consumption is obtained from the environmental cost database 41 .

[0129] At 52 , an emission equivalent value is obtained from the environmental cost database 41 .

[0130] For internal combustion engines, the ratio of CO2 and other emissions (e.g. kg) to fuel consumption (kL) can be calculated. For electric engines, the ratio of CO2 emissions from the original power generation to the amount of electricity consumed can be calculated.

[0131] At 53 , the distance of the trip is obtained from the environmental cost database 41 .

[0132] In 54, an emission equivalent value is obtained.

[0133] At 55 , the number of passengers is obtained from the environmental cost database 41 .

[0134] If a count is not possible, the passenger capacity in the vehicle (i.e. assuming the vehicle is full) is used instead.

[0135] In 56, the environmental cost coefficient is calculated by the following formula: Cost factor = total emissions(s) / (distance traveled x number of passengers)

[0136] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to calculate a capacity for the transportation type.

[0137] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to calculate a passenger count and determine whether an increase in capacity is indicated based on the passenger count.

[0138] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to determine whether a change in the type of transportation would result in reduced environmental costs based on at least one of the number of passengers, the type of transportation, and the capacity.

[0139] In some embodiments, the communications network nodes and / or circuitry are further configured to provide alternative transportation options where such options can reduce environmental costs.

[0140] In some embodiments, the environmental cost factor is calculated based on at least one of energy consumption, emissions equivalents, distance traveled, and number of passengers.

[0141] In some embodiments, the communications network node and / or circuitry is further configured to provide conditional reservations based on a predicted future number of passengers and a predicted environmental cost per future number of passengers.

[0142] In some embodiments, marginal costs are considered to optimize the environmental cost calculation.

[0143] It is recognised that there are cases where public transport is just as environmentally unfriendly as using a personal car, for example.

[0144] For example, public transport is inflexible (e.g., because it operates according to a fixed timetable) and its capacity cannot be dynamically changed.

[0145] As can be seen from Figure 7, which shows the CO2 emissions vs. number of passengers when using a car, for example, if everyone uses a car (say, with a capacity of 5 people per car), the CO2 emissions tend to increase almost linearly.

[0146] In contrast, Figure 8 shows a similar diagram 70, but for railroads rather than personal automobiles: a railcar can carry 100 passengers, and if this railcar is full, another railcar must be added.

[0147] Figure 9 shows an overlay 80 of the graphs of Figures 7 and 8, allowing a comparison between them. In region 81, the CO2 emissions are lower when using only cars.

[0148] In such cases, the MaaS system according to the present disclosure can suggest using cars rather than trains if it predicts that there will not be enough passengers using trains in the area, and in such cases, for example, other routes / transportation modes and / or other incentives can be presented to the user.

[0149] On this basis, the main requirements for taking marginal costs into account can be identified. These requirements are, for example: MaaS mobility service operators may not initially know the additional costs of increasing passenger numbers; mobility service providers (e.g. rail operators) may know them MaaS mobility service providers may offer passengers lower environmental costs for transportation options based on marginal costs. -In some cases, the entire transportation system will be optimized, rather than a single MaaS service provider.

[0150] FIG. 10 illustrates a method 90 that takes these insights into account based on such revised marginal cost determinations.

[0151] At 91, the end user inputs the destination (and starting location if different from the current location).

[0152] The mobility management system 3 then requests the service and requests its authentication.

[0153] At 92, the personal data management system 4 authorizes the service if it is within the permissible scope of the user's contract. The personal data management system 4 may store previous travel preferences / history and send these back to the mobility management system 3 in addition to the authorization result.

[0154] At 93, the mobility management system 3 requests the mobility service provider system 6 to search for route candidates, cost estimates, estimated time of arrival etc. If there are multiple alternative routes / transport modes, it requests multiple mobility operators.

[0155] At 94, the mobility service provider system 6 finds the route(s) and returns the mode of transportation, route, distance, and other travel information such as fare and travel time that is useful for the user's decision.

[0156] At 95, the mobility service provider system 6 calculates the environmental costs using the marginal costs, as further described with reference to FIG.

[0157] The mobility service provider system 6 may offer conditional reservations if there are not enough passengers when requested, as will be further described with reference to FIG.

[0158] The mobility service provider system 6 transmits the environmental costs and conditions to the mobility management system 3 .

[0159] The mobility management system 6 transmits the route and the possible conditions to the end user entity 2. The mobility management system may modify the mode of travel and / or the environmental costs.

[0160] The end user entity 2 displays the potential routes and conditions to the user at 96 so that the user can compare and select the potential routes and conditions.

[0161] FIG. 11 shows a flow chart of a method 100 for calculating environmental costs.

[0162] At 101, the number of reservations is obtained (or estimated from the user's history information).

[0163] At 102, we will increase passenger numbers.

[0164] Then it is determined whether the number of passengers exceeds the capacity of the current mode of transport. If not, a normal booking is performed at 103.

[0165] If the answer is Yes in 104, it is determined whether the capacity can be increased.

[0166] If no, then at 105 the reservation is reduced.

[0167] If the answer is Yes in 106, the additional cost due to the increase in capacity is calculated in 107.

[0168] At 108, the environmental costs are calculated as described herein.

[0169] FIG. 12 illustrates a flow chart of a method 110 for providing conditional booking of travel to determine whether an increase in capacity may be implemented.

[0170] Mobility service providers (public transport operators such as train companies, bus companies, etc.) may not be able to decide to increase capacity immediately - they may decide to do so later depending on demand.

[0171] With MaaS, public transport can be more flexible in response to demand than a predefined timetable. Mobility service providers can therefore offer conditional reservations. If demand is high enough, they can increase capacity.

[0172] First, it is determined whether the calculated cost per passenger is too high. If not, it performs a normal reservation at 111.

[0173] If yes, the number of future reservations is predicted in 112. For example, statistics of historical information may be used, or an AI model may be utilized. If the predicted number is not very high, it may be decided not to increase capacity.

[0174] If the forecast number is high enough, conditional reservations can be offered.

[0175] As mentioned above, the environmental costs may in some instances be lower when using a car due to marginal costs. In such cases, MaaS service providers may offer cars (e.g. taxis, buses, ride-sharing services) instead of train tickets etc.

[0176] Such a process is illustrated in FIG.

[0177] 121 to request alternative transport options / routes from other mobility service providers (rail companies, tram operators, bus operators, etc.).

[0178] If an alternative is available, then at 122 the alternative is provided.

[0179] If no at 123, then at 124 a car (or another type of transportation) may be offered.

[0180] 125, adjust the environmental costs. The environmental costs of automobiles should not exceed the environmental costs of public transport.

[0181] 126, providing automobiles at revised environmental costs.

[0182] Some embodiments relate to a method implemented in a communications network node for calculating an environmental cost for a user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip, as described above.

[0183] The method may be performed by one or more communication network nodes and / or corresponding circuitry.

[0184] In some embodiments, as described above, the environmental cost is further calculated based on at least one of the transportation type, distance, travel time, energy source, and environmental cost coefficient. In some embodiments, as described above, the environmental cost is calculated for the different trips proposed to the user. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes determining whether a total environmental cost of the user in a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes obtaining energy data from an energy provider network node. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes communicating with an environmental cost database network node for recording the energy data. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes obtaining an environmental cost coefficient for calculating the environmental cost. In some embodiments, as described above, the environmental cost coefficient is obtained based on the transportation type of the trip. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes calculating a capacity of the transportation type. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes calculating a number of passengers and determining whether an increase in capacity is suggested based on the number of passengers. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes determining whether a change in mode type would result in reduced environmental costs based on at least one of passenger count, mode type, and capacity. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes offering an alternative mode of transportation if the alternative mode of transportation would result in reduced environmental costs. In some embodiments, as described above, the environmental cost factor is calculated based on at least one of energy consumption, emissions equivalent, travel distance, and passenger count. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further includes offering a conditional reservation based on a projected future passenger count and a projected environmental cost per future passenger count.In some embodiments, the method further comprises using the communication network node to operate the distributed ledger as described above. In some embodiments, the method further comprises using the communication network node to operate the centralized database as described above. In some embodiments, the method further comprises using a pre-defined table for calculating the environmental cost as described above.

[0185] Some embodiments relate to a user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node as described above, the user equipment comprising circuitry configured to obtain an environmental cost for the user's trip calculated based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip.

[0186] In some embodiments, as described above, the user equipment is further configured to provide the destination to a communications network node for determining an environmental cost for the trip. In some embodiments, as described above, the user equipment is further configured to provide route candidates to the user, each route candidate having an associated environmental cost. In some embodiments, as described above, the user equipment is further configured to provide a reward to the user associated with at least one route candidate.

[0187] Some embodiments relate to a method implemented in user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node as described above, for obtaining an environmental cost for a user's journey calculated based on the user's journey data and at least one route option for the journey.

[0188] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing the destination to a communications network node for calculating an environmental cost for the trip, as described above. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing route candidates to the user, each route candidate having an associated environmental cost, as described above. In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a reward to the user for at least one of the route candidates, as described above.

[0189] Some embodiments relate to a communication system comprising a communication network node and circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip, as described above.

[0190] In some embodiments, as described above, the communication system is further configured to record the trip in a blockchain. In some embodiments, as described above, the communication system is further configured to calculate an environmental cost in a first subset of communication network nodes. In some embodiments, as described above, the communication system is further configured to determine whether a sum of the environmental costs of the user in a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold in a second subset different from the first subset of communication network nodes. In some embodiments, as described above, the communication system is further configured to operate a distributed ledger. In some embodiments, as described above, the communication system is further configured to operate a centralized database. In some embodiments, as described above, the communication system is further configured to use a predefined table for calculating the environmental cost.

[0191] Some embodiments relate to a method implemented in a communication system comprising a communication network node, as described above, for calculating an environmental cost for a user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. In some embodiments, as described above, the method further comprises: In some embodiments, as described above, the method further comprises: recording the trip in a blockchain; In some embodiments, as described above, the method further comprises: calculating the environmental cost at a first subset of the communication network nodes; determining at a second subset different from the first subset of the communication network nodes whether a sum of the environmental costs of the user for a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold; In some embodiments, as described above, the method further comprises: operating a distributed ledger with the communication network nodes; In some embodiments, as described above, the method further comprises: operating a centralized database with the communication network nodes; In some embodiments, as described above, the method further comprises: using a predefined table for calculating the environmental cost;

[0192] Each of the methods as described above may in some embodiments also be implemented as a computer program that, when executed on a computer and / or processor, causes the computer and / or processor to perform the method. In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium is also provided that stores a computer program product that, when executed by a processor, such as the processors described above, causes each of the methods described above to be performed.

[0193] In the following, a blockchain and its general data structure will be described with reference to Fig. 14. The blockchain of this embodiment is characterized by its network / topology, consensus algorithm, hash function, participant authentication, scalability / block structure and performance.

[0194] Figure 14 shows a general structure of a blockchain 130. The blockchain 130 includes a chain of multiple data blocks 131a, 131b, 131c, where block 131b is the current block (block #N), block 131a is the previous block (block #N·l), and block 131c is the future or successor block (block #N+l). Each block includes a hash function result of the previous block, a main data structure, input values ​​for the hash function, and a hash function result of the current block, and the hash function result of the current block (131b) is always used as input for the next block (131c).

[0195] Furthermore, each block contains a "number used once" which is a one-shot random number for secure blockchain processing, and can prevent replay attacks. For example, if an attacker copies previously sent data and uses the copied data again to perform spoofing communication, the receiver can detect the spoofing communication because the receiver must use a different "number used once" for the next data. This random number is sometimes called a "nonce" in cryptocurrency. Furthermore, a timestamp may be inserted into each of blocks 131a, 131b, and 131c. Blockchain 130 is an example of a distributed ledger and may be used, for example, to provide MaaS in some embodiments.

[0196] FIG. 15 shows the inputs and outputs of a hash function used, for example, in the blockchain 130 of FIG.

[0197] In general, a hash function is a function that can be used to map input data to output data with a specific algorithm. The input data may be large and variable in size, and conversely, the output data may be compact and have a fixed size. A known (and well-known) algorithm used for hashing in some blockchain embodiments is the Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA) designed by the United States National Security Agency (SHA·2, SHA·256, etc.).

[0198] The inputs of the hash function are the previous hash output, a number that has been used once, and the data body of the current block (e.g., block 131b in FIG. 14). The output of the hash function is a unique response value for the input value. If someone tries to tamper with the data body, the output of the hash function cannot be kept consistent.

[0199] The distributed ledger (blockchain) embodiments of the present disclosure may implement a consensus protocol or algorithm. For example, in some embodiments, the consensus protocol uses Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT), which is resistant to database spoofing and hardware failures.

[0200] A well-known consensus algorithm implemented in some embodiments is the so-called Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT).

[0201] In some embodiments, a permissioned blockchain is used, with a relatively small number of permissioned blockchain nodes responsible for consensus (validating blocks).

[0202] FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary process 140 of PBFT.

[0203] At 141, the leader node (also called non-validating peers) requests other nodes to validate the blockchain. At 142, each requested node (validating peer) checks the validity of the blockchain with a hash function and indicates the result to the other nodes at 143. At 144, the node receives validity results from multiple other peers and checks for blockchain consensus if it receives more validity results than a predefined criterion. If consensus is obtained, the node writes / finalizes the blockchain at 145. The leader peer checks the overall progress of the validity checks of other nodes and finishes the blockchain procedure at 146.

[0204] For resilience, the total number of nodes is 3f+1 or greater in some embodiments, where f is the number of allowed failed nodes. For example, if f=1, there are 4 nodes in total, if f=3, there are 10 nodes in total, etc. In some embodiments, PBFT, as described herein, together with a permission blockchain for mobility services blockchain, provides at least in part the following features:

[0205] Regarding security, PBFT, in some embodiments, poses a small risk of 51% attacks, which are common in cryptocurrencies, since the permissions of the peers with consensus roles must be trusted. Regarding privacy, since only the mobility service provider handles the blockchain at the (peer) node, end users cannot access the entire blockchain (end users may not have permission to access the blockchain because it is a permission-based blockchain). Regarding performance, since a small number of peers have high performance, in some embodiments, the consensus processing time is very short. Regarding flexibility, the block size and format of the blockchain are flexible compared to public blockchains in some embodiments.

[0206] In the following, one embodiment of a general purpose computer 150 is described with reference to Fig. 17. The computer 150 can be implemented to function as essentially any type of network equipment, e.g. a network node, an ID hub, part of a distributed database, a base station or new radio base station, a transmission / reception point or user equipment, a communication equipment such as (end) terminal equipment, etc. The computer comprises components 151 to 161, which can form a circuit such as any one of the circuits of the network equipment and communication devices described herein.

[0207] An embodiment using software, firmware, programs, etc. to carry out the methods described herein may be installed on computer 150 and then configured as appropriate for a particular embodiment.

[0208] The computer 150 has a central processing unit (CPU) 151, which can execute various types of procedures and methods as described in this specification, for example, according to a program stored in a read only memory (ROM) 152, a program stored in a storage 157 and loaded into a random access memory (RAM) 153, a program stored in a medium 160 insertable into each drive 159, etc.

[0209] The CPU 151, the ROM 152 and the RAM 153 are connected by a bus 161, which is connected to an input / output interface 154. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the numbers of CPUs, memories and storages are merely exemplary and that the computer 150 can be appropriately adapted and configured to meet specific requirements arising when the computer 150 functions as a base station or as a user equipment (end terminal).

[0210] Input 155, output 156, storage 157, communication interface 158, and drive 159 are connected to input / output interface 154, into which medium 160 (compact disk, digital video disk, compact flash memory, etc.) can be inserted. Input 155 can be a pointer device (mouse, graphic table, etc.), keyboard, microphone, camera, touch screen, etc.

[0211] Output 156 may include a display (such as a liquid crystal display, a cathode ray tube display, a light emitting diode display, etc.), a speaker, etc.

[0212] Storage 157 may include a hard disk, a solid state drive, or the like.

[0213] The communication interface 158 may be adapted to communicate, for example, via a local area network (LAN), a wireless local area network (WLAN), a mobile communication system (GSM, UMTS, LTE, NR, etc.), Bluetooth, infrared, etc.

[0214] It should be noted that the above description is of an exemplary configuration of computer 150. Alternative configurations may be implemented using additional or other sensors, storage devices, interfaces, etc. For example, communication interface 158 may support radio access technologies other than the UMTS, LTE, and NR mentioned.

[0215] If computer 150 functions as a base station, communication interface 158 may further comprise a respective air interface (e.g., providing E·UTRA protocol OFDMA (downlink) and SUEDMA (uplink)) and a network interface (e.g., implementing protocols such as Sl·AP, GTP·U, SI·MME, X2·AP, etc.). Additionally, computer 150 may comprise one or more antennas and / or antenna arrays. The present disclosure is not limited to any particularity of such protocols.

[0216] An embodiment of user equipment UE 170 and eNB 175 (or NReNB / gNB), and a communication path 174 between UE 170 and eNB 175, used to implement embodiments of the present disclosure, is described with reference to Figure 18. UE 170 is an example of a communication device (or end user entity), and eNB is an example of a base station (e.g., network node), without the present disclosure being limited in this respect.

[0217] The UE 170 comprises a transmitter 171, a receiver 172 and a controller 173, but in general, the technical functions of the transmitter 171, the receiver 172 and the controller 173 are known to those skilled in the art, so a more detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0218] The eNB 175 comprises a transmitter 176, a receiver 177 and a controller 178, again generally the functions of which are known to those skilled in the art and therefore a more detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0219] During operation, controller 173 of UE 170 controls the reception of downlink signals at receiver 172 via downlink path 174b, and controller 173 controls the transmission of uplink signals via transmitter 171 via uplink path 174a.

[0220] Similarly, during operation, controller 178 of eNB 175 controls the transmission of downlink signals at transmitter 176 via downlink path 174b, and controller 178 controls the reception of uplink signals at receiver 177 via uplink path 174a.

[0221] It should be appreciated that the embodiments describe the method with an exemplary order of method steps. However, the particular order of the method steps is provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as binding. For example, 52 and 53 in the embodiment of FIG. 6 may be interchanged. Also, 101 and 102 in the embodiment of FIG. 11 may be interchanged. Furthermore, 45 and 47 in the embodiment of FIG. 5 may be interchanged. Other variations in the order of method steps will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0222] It should be noted that the division of computer 150 into units 151-153 is for illustrative purposes, and the present disclosure is not limited to any particular division of functionality in any particular unit. For example, computer 150 may be implemented by respective programmed processors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc.

[0223] In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium having stored therein a computer program product that, when executed by a processor, such as the processor described above, causes the method described above to be performed.

[0224] All units and entities described in this specification and recited in the accompanying claims may be implemented as integrated circuit logic, for example on a chip, unless otherwise noted, and the functions provided by such units and entities may be implemented by software, unless otherwise noted.

[0225] In so far as the embodiments of the present disclosure described above are implemented, at least in part, using software-controlled data processing apparatus, it will be understood that computer programs providing such software control, and transmission, storage or other media on which such computer programs are provided, are also contemplated as aspects of the present disclosure.

[0226] The present technology can also be configured as follows.

[0227] (1) A communications network node comprising circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on trip data of the user and at least one route option for the trip. (2) the environmental cost is further calculated based on at least one of the following: type of transportation, distance, travel time, energy source, and environmental cost coefficient; A communication network node according to (1). (3) The environmental costs are calculated for different trips proposed to the user. A communication network node according to (1) or (2). (4) further configured to determine whether a total environmental cost of the user for a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (3). (5) further configured to obtain energy data from the energy provider network node. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (4). (6) further configured to communicate with the network node of the environmental cost database for recording the energy data. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (5). (7) The method is further configured to obtain an environmental cost coefficient for calculating the environmental cost. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (6). (8) The environmental cost coefficient is obtained based on the type of transportation used for the trip. (7) A communication network node according to (7). (9) further configured to calculate the capacity of the type of transportation means. (8) A communication network node according to (8). (10)Furthermore, Calculate the number of passengers, and configured to calculate, based on the number of passengers, whether an increase in the capacity is indicated. A communication network node according to (9). (11) The method is further configured to determine whether a change in the type of transportation means will lead to a reduction in the environmental cost based on at least one of the number of passengers, the type of transportation means, and the capacity. A communication network node according to (10). (12) further configured to provide alternative means of transportation if such alternative means of transportation can reduce the environmental costs. A communication network node according to (11). (13) The environmental cost coefficient is calculated based on at least one of energy consumption, emission equivalent value, travel distance, and number of passengers. A communication network node according to any one of (7) to (12). (14) further configured to provide conditional reservations based on a projected future number of passengers and the projected environmental cost per future number of passengers. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (13). (15) It will also be configured to handle distributed ledgers. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (14). (16) Further, the system is configured to handle a centralized database. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (15). (17) further configured to use a predefined table for calculating the environmental cost. A communication network node according to any one of (1) to (16). (18) A method implemented in a communications network node, comprising: Calculating an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. method. (19) The environmental cost is further calculated based on at least one of the following: type of transportation, distance, travel time, energy source, and environmental cost coefficient. The method according to (18). (20) The environmental costs are calculated for different trips proposed to the user. The method according to (18) or (19). (21) determining whether the total environmental cost of the user for a given time period exceeds a given threshold; A method according to any one of (18) to (20). (22) Further, energy data is acquired from the energy provider network nodes. A method according to any one of (18) to (21). (23) Further, the network node communicates with an environmental cost database to record energy data. A method according to any one of (18) to (22). (24) Further, an environmental cost coefficient for calculating the environmental cost is obtained. A method according to any one of (18) to (23). (25) The environmental cost coefficient is obtained based on the type of transportation used for the trip. The method according to (24). (26) Further, calculate the capacity of the type of transportation. The method according to (25). (27)Furthermore, Calculate the number of passengers, Determine whether an increase in capacity is indicated based on the number of passengers. The method according to (26). (28) Further, based on at least one of the number of passengers, the type of transportation, and the capacity, determine whether a change in the type of transportation will lead to a reduction in the environmental costs. The method according to (27). (29) Furthermore, if alternative means of transportation can reduce said environmental costs, provide such alternative means of transportation. The method according to (28). (30) The environmental cost coefficient is calculated based on at least one of energy consumption, emission equivalent value, travel distance, and number of passengers. A method according to any one of (24) to (29). (31) providing conditional reservations based on a projected future number of passengers and the projected environmental cost per projected number of passengers; A method according to any one of (18) to (30). (32) Furthermore, the communication network node is used to handle a distributed ledger. A method according to any one of (18) to (31). (33) Further configured to handle a centralized database using the communication network node. A method according to any one of (18) to (32). (34) Further, a predefined table for calculating said environmental costs is used. A method according to any one of (18) to (33). (35) A user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node, comprising: a circuit configured to obtain an environmental cost for the user's trip calculated based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip; Equipped with User equipment. (36) Further configured to provide a destination to the communication network node for calculating the environmental cost for the trip. (35) A user device as described in (35). (37) The method is further configured to provide the user with route candidates associated with the environmental costs for each route candidate. A user device according to (35) or (36). (38) further configured to provide a reward to the user associated with at least one route candidate. (37) A user device as described in (37). (39) A method implemented in a user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node, comprising: Obtain an environmental cost for the user's trip calculated based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. method. (40) providing a destination to the communication network node for calculating the environmental cost of the trip; The method according to (39). (41) Further, the route candidates associated with the environmental costs are provided to the user for each route candidate. The method according to (39) or (40). (42) further providing a reward to the user associated with at least one route candidate. The method according to (41). (43) A communications system comprising: a communications network node and circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. (44) The method is further configured to record the trip on a blockchain. (43) A communication system according to (43). (45) further configured to calculate the environmental cost for a first subset of the communication network nodes. A communication system according to (43) or (44). (46) further configured to determine, in a second subset of the communication network nodes different from the first subset, whether a sum of the environmental costs of the user in a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold. A communication system according to (45). (47) It will also be configured to handle distributed ledgers. A communication system according to any one of (43) to (46). (48) Further, the system is configured to handle a centralized database. A communication system according to any one of (43) to (47). (49) Further configured to use a predefined table for calculating the environmental cost. A communication system according to any one of (43) to (48). (50) A method implemented in a communication system comprising a communication network node, comprising: Calculating an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. method. (51) Furthermore, the trip is recorded on a blockchain. The method according to (50). (52) further calculating the environmental cost for a first subset of the communication network nodes. The method according to (50) or (51). (53) further determining, in a second subset of the communication network nodes different from the first subset, whether a sum of the environmental costs of the user in a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold. The method according to (52). (54) Furthermore, the communication network node is used to handle a distributed ledger. A method according to any one of (50) to (53). (55) Further configured to handle a centralized database using the communication network node. A method according to any one of (50) to (54). (56) Further, a predefined table is used to calculate the environmental costs. A method according to any one of (50) to (55). (57) A program code that, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method according to any one of (18) to (34) and / or (39) to (42) and / or (50) to (56). A computer program comprising: (58) A computer program product that, when executed by a processor, causes the computer to perform any one of the methods according to (18) to (34) and / or (39) to (42) and / or (50) to (56). A non-transitory computer-readable recording medium.

Claims

1. A communications network node comprising: circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on trip data of the user and at least one route option for the trip.

2. The cost is further calculated based on at least one of the following: mode type, distance, travel time, energy source, and environmental cost factor. A communications network node according to claim 1.

3. The environmental costs are calculated for different trips proposed to the user. A communications network node according to claim 1.

4. and determining whether a total environmental cost of the user for a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold. A communications network node according to claim 1.

5. and configured to obtain energy data from the energy provider network node. A communications network node according to claim 1.

6. and configured to communicate with the network node of the environmental cost database for recording the energy data. A communications network node according to claim 1.

7. The system is further configured to obtain an environmental cost coefficient for calculating the environmental cost. A communications network node according to claim 1.

8. The environmental cost coefficient is obtained based on the type of transportation of the trip. A communications network node according to claim 7.

9. Further configured to calculate the capacity of the transportation type. A communications network node according to claim 8.

10. moreover, Calculate the number of passengers, and configured to calculate, based on the number of passengers, whether an increase in the capacity is indicated. A communications network node according to claim 9.

11. and determining whether a change in the type of transportation means would result in a reduction in the environmental costs based on at least one of the number of passengers, the type of transportation means, and the capacity. A communications network node according to claim 10.

12. and configured to provide alternative modes of transportation if such alternative modes of transportation can reduce the environmental costs. A communications network node according to claim 11.

13. The environmental cost coefficient is calculated based on at least one of energy consumption, emission equivalents, travel distance, and number of passengers. A communications network node according to claim 7.

14. and providing conditional reservations based on a predicted future number of passengers and the predicted environmental cost per future number of passengers. A communications network node according to claim 1.

15. Additionally, it is configured to handle distributed ledgers. A communications network node according to claim 1.

16. Further, it is configured as follows: Dealing with Centralized Databases A communications network node according to claim 1.

17. and further configured to use a predefined table for calculating said environmental cost. A communications network node according to claim 1.

18. 1. A method implemented in a communications network node, comprising: Calculating an environmental cost for the user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. method.

19. The environmental cost is further calculated based on at least one of a mode of transportation, a distance, a travel time, an energy source, and an environmental cost factor.

20. The method of claim 18.

20. The environmental costs are calculated for different trips proposed to the user.

20. The method of claim 18.

21. and determining whether the total environmental cost of the user for a given time period exceeds a given threshold.

20. The method of claim 18.

22. Furthermore, energy data is acquired from the energy provider network nodes.

20. The method of claim 18.

23. Additionally, the system communicates with a network node of an environmental cost database for recording energy data.

20. The method of claim 18.

24. Furthermore, an environmental cost coefficient for calculating the environmental cost is obtained.

20. The method of claim 18.

25. The environmental cost coefficient is obtained based on the type of transportation of the trip.

25. The method of claim 24.

26. Furthermore, the capacity of the type of transportation is calculated.

26. The method of claim 25.

27. moreover, Calculate the number of passengers, Determine whether an increase in capacity is indicated based on the number of passengers.

27. The method of claim 26.

28. Further, based on at least one of the number of passengers, the type of transportation, and the capacity, it is determined whether a change in the type of transportation will lead to a reduction in the environmental cost.

28. The method of claim 27.

29. Furthermore, if alternative means of transportation can reduce said environmental costs, provide said alternative means of transportation.

29. The method of claim 28.

30. The environmental cost coefficient is calculated based on at least one of energy consumption, emission equivalents, travel distance, and number of passengers.

25. The method of claim 24.

31. and providing conditional reservations based on a predicted future number of passengers and the predicted environmental cost per future number of passengers.

20. The method of claim 18.

32. Furthermore, the communication network nodes are used to handle a distributed ledger.

20. The method of claim 18.

33. Further configured to handle a centralized database using said communication network node.

20. The method of claim 18.

34. Furthermore, a predefined table is used to calculate the environmental costs.

20. The method of claim 18.

35. 1. A user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node, comprising: a circuit configured to obtain an environmental cost for the user's trip calculated based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip; Equipped with User equipment.

36. and further configured to provide a destination to the communication network node for calculating the environmental cost of the trip.

36. The user equipment of claim 35.

37. and providing the user with route candidates associated with the environmental costs for each route candidate.

36. The user equipment of claim 35.

38. and providing a reward to the user associated with at least one candidate route.

38. The user equipment of claim 37.

39. 1. A method implemented in a user equipment configured to communicate with a communications network node, comprising: Obtaining an environmental cost for the user's trip calculated based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. method.

40. and providing a destination to the communication network node for calculating the environmental cost of the trip.

40. The method of claim 39.

41. Furthermore, the route candidates associated with the environmental costs are provided to the user for each route candidate.

40. The method of claim 39.

42. Further, a reward is provided to the user associated with at least one of the route candidates.

42. The method of claim 41.

43. A communications system comprising a communications network node and circuitry configured to calculate an environmental cost for a trip of a user based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip.

44. Further configured to record the trip on a blockchain.

44. A communication system according to claim 43.

45. Further configured to calculate the environmental cost for a first subset of the communication network nodes.

44. A communication system according to claim 43.

46. and determining, in a second subset of nodes of the communication network, different from the first subset, whether a sum of the environmental costs of the user in a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold.

46. ​​A communication system according to claim 45.

47. Additionally, it is configured to handle distributed ledgers.

44. A communication system according to claim 43.

48. Additionally, it is configured to handle a centralized database.

44. A communication system according to claim 43.

49. and further configured to use a predefined table for calculating said environmental cost.

44. A communication system according to claim 43.

50. A method implemented in a communication system comprising a communication network node, the method comprising: Calculating an environmental cost for the user's trip based on the user's trip data and at least one route option for the trip. method.

51. Furthermore, the trip is recorded on the blockchain.

51. The method of claim 50.

52. and calculating the environmental cost for a first subset of the communication network nodes.

51. The method of claim 50.

53. and determining whether a sum of the environmental costs of the user for a predetermined time period exceeds a predetermined threshold in a second subset of the communication network nodes different from the first subset of the communication network nodes.

53. The method of claim 52.

54. Furthermore, the communication network nodes are used to handle a distributed ledger.

51. The method of claim 50.

55. Further configured to handle a centralized database using said communication network node.

51. The method of claim 50.

56. Furthermore, a predefined table is used to calculate the environmental costs.

51. The method of claim 50.

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