Adaptive Output Power Control for Energy-Harvesting Communication Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices face challenges in efficiently reducing maximum output power to account for diminishing energy storage, particularly in devices that harvest energy and store it in super capacitors, leading to potential disruptions in network connections.
Innovation Solution
A communication device sets its maximum output power based on the amount of energy stored in its energy storage, allowing for dynamic reduction of power as energy levels diminish, thereby prolonging operational time and maintaining network connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a communication device maintains a constant maximum output power matching its declared power class, then the device can ensure reliable communication performance, but the device cannot operate when stored energy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic power adjustment by allowing the communication device to flexibly reduce its maximum output power below the declared power class level based on real-time energy storage status. The device monitors stored energy levels and adaptively scales power output to match available energy resources, transforming the static power class concept into a dynamic power management system that balances communication reliability with energy sustainability.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a communication device reduces maximum output power to account for diminishing energy storage, then the device can prolong operational time, but the device may experience connection disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the communication device continuously monitors its energy storage status and uses this information to adjust its maximum output power accordingly. The device provides feedback to the network about its power class capabilities, and the network responds with appropriate scheduling decisions. This closed-loop feedback system enables the device to prolong operational duration while maintaining connection reliability through coordinated power adjustment and network scheduling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the communication device proactively indicate its reduced power class capability to the network before actual power reduction occurs. The device sends signaling about its available power class based on current energy storage levels, allowing the network to prepare appropriate scheduling decisions in advance. This preliminary indication prevents connection disruptions by ensuring the network is aware of upcoming power constraints before they affect communication.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If a communication device dynamically adjusts maximum output power based on energy storage, then the device can maintain operations during energy transitions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the maximum output power parameter based on energy storage conditions. The device monitors energy storage parameters and adjusts the power output parameter accordingly, within the framework of defined power classes. This parameter-based approach maintains relatively simple device architecture while enabling dynamic power adjustment, as it relies on changing operational parameters rather than adding complex hardware or control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device is configured for use in a communication network. The communication device is configured to set a maximum output power based on a metric reflecting an amount of energy stored in an energy storage of the communication device, e.g., an amount of harvested energy stored in a supercapacitor. The communication device is also configured to perform one or more transmissions according to the maximum output power.