Inter-System Energy Saving in Multi-RAT Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing energy saving solutions in mobile communication networks are imperfect and cannot effectively realize energy saving functions across inter-system networks where LTE-A, LTE, UMTS, and GSM coexist, due to the lack of comprehensive energy saving mechanisms across different interfaces.

Innovation Solution

A method and equipment that utilize load information from network nodes to determine and adjust energy saving states across inter-system networks, employing a distributed energy saving structure and signaling procedures to optimize resource utilization, allowing nodes to enter or exit energy saving modes based on load indicators and network topology, using interfaces like S1, Iub, Iu, Abis, and Iur-g.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If existing energy saving solutions are applied in LTE system, then energy saving function can be realized in LTE system, but energy saving function cannot be realized for inter-system networks where LTE-A, LTE, UMTS and GSM coexist

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy saving function coverageVSAvoidinterface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the energy saving mechanism to support multiple radio access technologies (LTE, LTE-A, UMTS, GSM) through a unified approach. The network elements are designed to handle energy saving operations across different systems using common principles of load assessment and state transition, making the solution universally applicable across inter-system networks while maintaining compatibility with existing LTE-specific implementations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Extent of automation

If network elements collect information for self-optimizing, then energy saving decision can be made autonomously, but OAM system participation is required in centralized architecture

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy saving automationVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the energy saving system into distributed network elements that can autonomously perform load assessment and state transitions, while the OAM system provides centralized configuration and monitoring capabilities. This segmentation allows semi-autonomous operation at the network element level while maintaining centralized control for complex decisions, reducing the burden on OAM without completely eliminating its role

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces standardized interfaces and information exchange mechanisms that act as intermediaries between network elements and the OAM system. These intermediaries enable automated energy saving operations at the network element level while allowing the OAM system to receive status information and issue configuration commands when needed, bridging the gap between autonomous operation and centralized management

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP2566255B1Method and equipment for saving energy
Publication Date: 2019.10.16 CHINA ACAD OF TELECOMM TECH
  • EP2566255B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2566255B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2566255B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The present invention discloses a method and equipment for saving energy. The method comprises the following steps: the first network node acquires load information of the second network node next to the first and modifies energy saving state according to its own load information and that of said second network node; said first and second network nodes send information on indication for saving energy state to the adjacent third network and inform the information of modifying energy saving state to said third network node based on said information on indication for saving energy state. Embodiments of the present invention optimize resource utilization rate of the whole network.