Cell Shutdown Scheduling for Energy-Efficient Communication Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication networks face challenges in managing energy consumption efficiently, as load fluctuations lead to increased energy usage despite available capacity not being constantly utilized.
Innovation Solution
A method for energy savings management in communication networks involving co-located cells operating on different frequency bands, which includes obtaining a default energy savings plan, evaluating partial shutdown options, and choosing between full or partial cell shutdown based on time periods to achieve desired energy savings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If new cells are deployed to increase network capacity, then network capacity increases, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic cell shutdown strategies where cells are selectively deactivated based on real-time traffic conditions. The system monitors network load and dynamically adjusts cell operational status, transitioning cells between active and shutdown states to match actual demand patterns, thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining network capacity when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs periodic evaluation cycles to assess traffic conditions and determine optimal cell shutdown timing. By implementing regular monitoring intervals and scheduled energy savings plans, the network can systematically activate and deactivate cells in periodic cycles that align with predictable traffic patterns, achieving energy efficiency without compromising overall network capacity.
2Loss of energy
If cells are fully shut down to save energy, then energy savings increase, but network coverage and service continuity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial shutdown strategies where only specific cells or cell components are deactivated rather than complete base station shutdowns. This selective partial action allows the network to achieve energy savings by closing individual cells while other cells remain operational to maintain coverage, thereby balancing energy conservation with service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the base station into separable cell units that can be independently controlled. By segmenting the base station functionality into discrete cells operating on different frequency bands, the network can selectively shutdown individual cells based on local traffic conditions while maintaining other cells operational, thus achieving energy savings without compromising overall network coverage.
3Use of energy by moving object
If cells are shut down for energy savings, then energy consumption decreases, but mobility disturbances increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of traffic conditions and predicts optimal shutdown timing before actual cell deactivation. By assessing current and forecasted traffic patterns in advance, the network can schedule cell shutdowns during periods of low expected mobility activity, thereby minimizing user mobility disturbances while achieving energy savings objectives.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms that monitor cell shutdown impacts on user mobility and network performance. By continuously collecting data on mobility disturbances and energy savings achieved, the system adjusts future shutdown decisions based on observed outcomes, optimizing the balance between energy conservation and minimizing harmful mobility effects.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method for energy savings management for cells of a sector or a base station of a communication network. The sector or base station has co-located cells that operate on different frequency bands. The method is performed by obtaining a default energy savings plan that calls for fully shutting down at least one of the cells for a first time period and provides a first amount of energy savings; evaluating energy savings achievable by using partial shutdown in cells and determining a second time period of partial shutdown that is needed for achieving the first amount of energy savings; obtaining a third time period that is usable for energy savings actions; and choosing to use partial shutdown in the cells, if the second time period is shorter than the third time period, and else choosing to use the default energy saving plan.