Access Network Node Idle UE Estimation for Cell Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network energy saving techniques in 5G communication systems are inefficient due to lack of accurate load information on User Equipment (UEs) in RRC Idle mode, leading to suboptimal decision-making and increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
Implement methods and apparatus to track and estimate the number of UEs in Idle mode by transmitting broadcast information to trigger message transmission from UEs during cell camping or de-camping, and using Machine Learning algorithms to determine cell load based on these messages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If network energy saving techniques are implemented without accurate load information on Idle mode UEs, then energy consumption can be reduced, but decision-making becomes suboptimal leading to increased energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where access network nodes transmit broadcast information to Idle mode UEs, triggering UEs to send messages back to indicate their presence and cell camping status. This feedback loop enables accurate load information collection without requiring UEs to transition to connected mode, resolving the contradiction by providing necessary information while maintaining energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces broadcast information as an intermediary mechanism that enables communication between access network nodes and Idle mode UEs without establishing full RRC connections. This intermediary allows load information to be collected through simple presence indication messages rather than full UE reporting, reducing overhead while obtaining accurate load data.
2Measurement precision
If broadcast information is transmitted to trigger UE messages, then accurate load information is obtained, but additional signaling overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by triggering UEs to send only minimal presence indication messages rather than full UE capability reports or detailed location information. This partial reporting approach obtains sufficient load information for energy saving decisions while minimizing signaling overhead and UE processing requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables UEs to self-indicate their presence and cell camping status through automatic message transmission when receiving broadcast information. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for network-initiated probing or complex measurement procedures, reducing signaling overhead while achieving accurate load measurement.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for an access network node for determining a network energy saving configuration, includes transmitting a broadcast within a cell operated by the access network node to cause User Equipment (UEs), that are camping in the cell in an Idle mode to respond to the access network node; receiving responses from Idle mode UEs that are camped on the cell and determining, using the responses, an estimate of the number of Idle mode UEs that are camped on the cell; and determining the network energy saving configuration for the access network node using the estimated number of Idle mode UEs that are camped on the cell. Beneficially, the method allows for an accurate determination of a load of a cell, which is advantageous in the context of making network energy saving decisions.