Cross-Network Energy Saving for Mobile Radio Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing energy-saving mechanisms in mobile communication networks are limited to individual operator networks and struggle to efficiently scale capacity and power consumption between peak and off-peak times, especially in areas with high peak-time demand and multiple Radio Access Technologies (RATs), leading to inefficient energy usage during off-peak periods.
Innovation Solution
A method that enables energy-saving operational modes by pooling resources across multiple mobile communication networks, allowing radio access networks and core networks to switch between peak and off-peak modes based on demand, ensuring coverage and capacity through network sharing and coordinated switching off of non-essential components, thereby reducing energy consumption during off-peak times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If individual operator networks switch off radio equipment during off-peak times, then energy consumption is reduced, but network coverage and capacity may be insufficient for users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple operator networks (first and second networks) into a coordinated energy-saving system. During off-peak times, when one network switches off radio equipment, the other network provides backup coverage, ensuring continuous service while reducing overall energy consumption of the combined infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters of radio equipment based on time-dependent usage patterns. During off-peak periods, radio equipment transitions from active to idle or switched-off states, while maintaining network coverage through coordinated operation between multiple networks.
2Productivity
If networks are designed for peak-time demand, then sufficient capacity is available during high usage periods, but unnecessary energy is consumed during off-peak periods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic capacity adjustment where networks transition between peak-time and off-peak-time operational modes. During peak times, full network capacity is available; during off-peak times, capacity is reduced or shared between networks, allowing the system to adapt to varying demand while maintaining sufficient service levels.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple networks serve dual purposes: providing primary service during peak times and providing backup/shared service during off-peak times. This multi-functionality allows the same infrastructure to meet different operational requirements at different times without dedicated peak-only or off-peak-only resources.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple RATs are supported simultaneously, then service compatibility is maintained for different terminal types, but energy saving efficiency is reduced during off-peak times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines support for multiple Radio Access Technologies (GERAN and UTRAN) across two networks, where during off-peak times one network can handle traffic for both RAT types, reducing the need to maintain full multi-RAT capability simultaneously on both networks and thereby reducing energy consumption while maintaining service compatibility.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for saving energy in operating a first and second mobile communication networks by invoking an energy saving operational mode of the first and second mobile communication networks, wherein the first mobile communication network comprises a first radio access network for covering a geographic area and a first core network, wherein the geographic area is also covered by the second radio access network of a second mobile communication network, the second mobile communication network comprising a second core network, wherein - the first radio access network is able to be operated in a first operational mode for peak time usage of the first mobile communication network, and in a second operational mode for off-peak time usage of the first mobile communication network, wherein at least partly during off-peak time usage of the first and second mobile communication networks, the energy saving operational mode of the first and second mobile communication networks is invoked such that the first radio access network is operated in the second operational mode while the second radio access network ensures coverage in the geographic area, or wherein - the second radio access network is able to be operated in a first operational mode for peak time usage of the second mobile communication network, and in a second operational mode for off-peak time usage of the second mobile communication network, wherein at least partly during off-peak time usage of the first and second mobile communication networks, the energy saving operational mode of the first and second mobile communication networks is invoked such that the second radio access network is operated in the second operational mode while the first radio access network ensures coverage in the geographic area.