Energy Saving in Multi-RAT Mobile Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current energy saving methods in mobile communications networks are inefficient in managing energy consumption across different radio access technologies (RATs), leading to unnecessary energy usage and potential service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method that prioritizes RATs based on energy-saving policies and thresholds, allowing for partial or complete deactivation of cells while ensuring continuous service by handing over mobile terminals to other RATs, and using a centralized or distributed energy-saving functionality to manage and schedule these changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If energy saving methods deactivate cells or base stations, then energy consumption is reduced, but service continuity may be disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic energy saving by adjusting the operational state of RAT systems based on real-time network load conditions. The energy saving functionality monitors load metrics and dynamically transitions RAT systems between full operation, partial operation, and deactivation states, allowing the system to adapt its energy consumption to actual service demands while maintaining reliability when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of RAT systems by adjusting load thresholds and time schedule parameters. The energy saving functionality modifies system parameters such as activation thresholds, deactivation thresholds, and time-based scheduling parameters to optimize the balance between energy saving and service continuity, allowing flexible control over when and how RAT systems are deactivated
2Use of energy by stationary object
If RAT systems are deactivated for energy saving, then operating expenditure is reduced, but mobile terminals may lose service coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to energy saving management by implementing time schedule-based control. The energy saving functionality activates or deactivates RAT systems based on time-of-day patterns and pre-configured time schedules, allowing operators to reduce operating expenditure during low-demand periods while maintaining service coverage during peak hours, thus balancing cost reduction with coverage requirements
3Productivity
If load-based energy saving is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but complex management of multiple RAT systems is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal energy saving functionality that can manage multiple different RAT systems (such as LTE, 5G, Wi-Fi) through a single centralized controller. The energy saving functionality provides multi-functional capabilities including load monitoring, threshold evaluation, time schedule management, and coordinated deactivation/activation of different RAT types, eliminating the need for separate management systems for each RAT and thereby reducing overall management complexity while improving energy efficiency
Data Source
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AI summary
A method of energy saving is applied to a mobile communications network comprising at least two radio access technology systems (102; 104) having a plurality of base stations (108-118). The method comprises the steps of: assigning (136a; 136b) respective priorities to the radio access technology systems; and an energy saving server (136a; 136b) instructing, on the basis of the priorities, a selected radio access technology system to reduce the operational state cells in a group of cells. This reduction occurs if the selected radio access technology system and/or another radio access technology system is able to maintain service to served mobile terminals.