Distributed Small Cell Energy Management via X2 Load Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy saving management (ESM) solutions in heterogeneous cellular networks face challenges due to suboptimal independent small cell decisions, limitations in network-wide load reflection, and incompatibility with multivendor environments, leading to inefficiencies in power management and delayed response to traffic changes.
Innovation Solution
A distributed ESM system where helper cells in a power savings group share load information through non-proprietary signaling with a reference cell, using direct communication links to adjust their energy states based on load thresholds and sequential activation/deactivation orders, optimizing spectral efficiency and reducing latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If distributed independent solutions are used where small cells deactivate and reactivate based on their own traffic patterns, then each small cell can independently manage its power state, but the network-wide load conditions are not reflected and suboptimal power management occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines independent small cell autonomy with network-wide load awareness by having small cells participate in a distributed decision-making process where they share load information through standardized X2 interfaces, allowing collective power state optimization without centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where small cells continuously monitor and report their load conditions to the network, and receive decisions regarding power state changes based on aggregated network load information, enabling adaptive power management
2Productivity
If centralized OAM service is used to decide when to deactivate and reactivate small cells, then network-wide load conditions are considered, but response time to traffic changes is delayed due to intermittent data availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized OAM functionality into distributed decision-making units at each small cell, allowing parallel processing of power management decisions based on real-time load information received through X2 interfaces, thereby reducing response time while maintaining network-wide optimization
Solution Approach 2:
The system prepares for rapid response by pre-configuring small cells with the authority to execute power state changes locally based on received load information, eliminating the delay associated with centralized decision processing and enabling immediate reaction to traffic changes
3Productivity
If proprietary messages are used for small cells to interact with macro cells for power management decisions, then distributed coordination is achieved, but compatibility with multivendor environments is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs standardized X2 interface messages that are universally supported across different vendors and network equipment, enabling multivendor compatibility while maintaining distributed coordination capabilities for power management decisions
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a distributed method and system for independent activation and deactivation of small cells. The method and system consider network traffic at multiple nodes instead of only considering the small cell's own traffic, and may be implemented using existing X2 messages.