Base Station Mode Switching for Energy Saving Without Coverage Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cellular telecommunications networks face challenges in managing energy consumption of base stations, particularly when capacity base stations enter energy saving mode, leading to coverage holes and inefficiencies in service provision.
Innovation Solution
Base stations in a cellular network negotiate their operational modes through message exchanges, allowing them to dynamically switch between normal, energy saving, and compensation modes, with neighboring stations compensating for each other based on load, location, and network operator agreements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If capacity base stations enter energy saving mode to reduce energy consumption, then energy efficiency is improved, but coverage holes are created and service quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a compensation base station as an intermediary that takes over the coverage responsibilities of energy-saving base stations. The compensating base station receives handover requests from user equipment and provides continued service, effectively mediating between the energy-saving base station and the network to prevent coverage holes while maintaining energy efficiency benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the operational parameters of base stations by transitioning them between normal mode, energy saving mode, and compensation mode. This parameter change allows the network to optimize energy consumption while maintaining service quality through coordinated mode transitions across multiple base stations
2Reliability
If base stations operate in normal mode continuously, then network coverage and service quality are maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operational modes for base stations that allow them to switch between normal mode, energy saving mode, and compensation mode based on real-time network conditions and traffic demand. This dynamic approach enables base stations to reduce energy consumption during low-demand periods while maintaining service quality through coordinated compensation mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic evaluation of traffic patterns and network conditions to determine when base stations should transition between operational modes. By periodically assessing network state and adjusting base station modes accordingly, the system achieves energy savings during low-traffic periods while maintaining coverage during high-traffic periods
3Productivity
If multiple base stations are deployed to increase capacity, then network capacity is improved, but energy demand increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes base stations multi-functional by enabling them to operate in different modes (normal, energy saving, compensation) and to serve multiple purposes. A single base station can provide coverage, handle capacity traffic, and act as a compensation station for other base stations, thereby reducing the need for additional dedicated infrastructure and lowering overall energy demand
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides a base station, and a method of operating a base station, in a cellular telecommunications network, the base station having normal, compensation and energy saving modes of operation.