Network Node Multi-State Operation for Energy Efficiency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing communication networks face challenges in reducing energy consumption while ensuring reliable data transmission with low latency, as network nodes often operate in states that consume excessive energy for both control and data signal exchanges.

Innovation Solution

The network node operates in three distinct states: an energy-minimal first state where no signals are exchanged, a second state where only control signals are handled, and a third state for data transmission, allowing dynamic switching based on control signals to minimize energy usage and optimize participation in network communications.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If network nodes continuously operate in a state capable of receiving and transmitting both control and data signals, then reliable data transmission with low latency is ensured, but energy consumption increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The network node dynamically switches between different operating states (first state with minimal energy consumption, second state for control signal reception, third state for data transmission) based on current network conditions and requirements, rather than maintaining a fixed high-energy operational state continuously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The network node periodically transitions between low-power sleep states and active transmission states based on scheduled time slots, enabling energy-efficient operation while maintaining network functionality through periodic activation for control and data signal exchanges

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

2Use of energy by moving object

If network nodes switch to low energy consumption states frequently, then energy efficiency is improved, but response time for data transmission increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidresponse latency
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The network node performs preliminary actions by staying in the second operating state (capable of receiving control signals) during time slots when only control signals are transmitted, allowing rapid transition to the third state for data transmission without requiring full wake-up from the first state, thus reducing response latency while maintaining energy efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The network node dynamically adjusts its operational state based on real-time network conditions, transitioning between states with optimized response times for different signal types, balancing energy consumption and latency requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Use of energy by moving object

If network nodes operate in multiple operating states with different functionalities, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidoperating state management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The network node uses feedback mechanisms where control signals received in the second operating state provide information about upcoming data transmission requirements, enabling the node to proactively transition to the third state in advance, thereby simplifying state management while maintaining energy efficiency and low latency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3001737B1Network node, communication network and method for operating a network node and a communication network
Publication Date: 2020.02.26 BLEUEL JOHANNES
  • EP3001737B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

A network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) for a communication network (7) is set up to send data signals, its operation being at least partially controllable by external control signals.The network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) is configured to alternately assume a first operating state (I) in which control signals and data signals from the network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) are neither receiveable nor transmittable; a second operating state (II) in which control signals from the network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) are at least receiveable, wherein the network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) switches from the first operating state (I) to the second operating state (II) upon the occurrence of a transition condition; and a third operating state (III) in which data signals from the network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) are transmittable, wherein the network node (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) switches from the first operating state (I) to the second operating state (II) upon receiving a corresponding control signal from the second operating state. (II) changes to the third operating state (III).