Access Node Power Control via Channel Quality Trends

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Solution Overview

Problem

Wireless networks face challenges in efficiently managing power output from access nodes, leading to wasted energy due to constant full-power transmission, despite varying channel quality and obstructions.

Innovation Solution

Implement a method to dynamically adjust the power output of access nodes based on trends in channel quality over time, using monitoring and analysis of channel quality metrics such as CQI, RSRP, and RSRQ, and incorporating factors like mobility and seasonal interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If access nodes radiate at full power at all times, then signal quality and quality of service are maintained, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal qualityVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The access node dynamically adjusts its power output based on real-time channel quality indicators (CQI) and determined trends, transitioning from static full-power operation to adaptive power levels. The system monitors CQI over time, identifies trends (improving, degrading, stable), and adjusts power accordingly, making the power output flexible and responsive to changing conditions rather than fixed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the power output parameter based on monitored channel quality trends. When CQI shows improving trends, the system reduces power output; when CQI degrades, it increases power output. This parameter adjustment maintains signal quality while optimizing energy consumption by matching power levels to actual channel conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Use of energy by moving object

If access nodes reduce power output, then energy consumption decreases, but signal quality and quality of service deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidquality of service

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where channel quality indicators are continuously monitored and fed back to the power control system. Based on this feedback and trend analysis, the system adjusts power output to maintain quality of service. The feedback loop ensures that power reductions do not compromise service quality by detecting when quality degradation begins and responding by increasing power

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary trend detection on channel quality indicators before making power adjustments. By analyzing whether CQI is trending upward or downward over time, the system anticipates future channel conditions and adjusts power proactively to prevent quality degradation, rather than reacting after quality has already deteriorated

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250133508A1System and method for managing energy consumption in a wireless network

Publication Date: 2025.04.24 T MOBILE INNOVATIONS LLC

AI summary

Systems and methods are provided for managing power usage in a wireless network. Methods include monitoring a channel quality of communications between an access node and a wireless device. Methods further include determining that there is a trend in channel quality changing over time. Methods further include adjusting a power output from the access node based at least in part on the determined trend.