Network Node Power Source Selection Using Cost and Load Forecasts

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing telecommunications networks waste energy and create a high carbon footprint due to suboptimal utilization of power sources, particularly passive equipment like diesel generators and batteries, with no intelligent solution to efficiently utilize battery capacity or alternative energy sources.

Innovation Solution

A computer-implemented method using machine learning to determine the optimal power source for network nodes by analyzing passive equipment power sources (diesel generators and batteries) based on estimated cost and load, providing real-time recommendations to minimize energy consumption and carbon footprint.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If traditional power source utilization methods are used, then network operations are maintained, but energy is wasted and carbon footprint is high

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy wasteVSAvoidpower source management

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors power consumption patterns, load conditions, and environmental factors, then uses this information to dynamically adjust power source selection and optimization strategies, reducing energy waste while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-optimization by automatically analyzing its own power consumption patterns and making intelligent decisions about power source utilization without requiring manual intervention, thereby reducing energy waste while maintaining ease of operation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If intelligent power source management is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveenergy efficiencyVSAvoidpower source management system

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a multi-functional power source management system that can handle multiple power sources (grid, diesel generator, battery), perform various functions (monitoring, optimization, control), and adapt to different operational scenarios, thereby improving energy efficiency while managing complexity through unified architecture

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system optimizes energy efficiency by dynamically changing operational parameters such as power source selection, load distribution, and operational modes based on real-time conditions, achieving high productivity while managing complexity through parameter-based control

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Use of energy by stationary object

If battery capacity is utilized efficiently, then operational costs are reduced, but reliability requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvebattery power utilizationVSAvoidpower supply reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Use of energy by stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by proactively managing battery charge levels, pre-charging batteries during low-cost periods, and preparing power source transitions in advance, thereby optimizing battery utilization while maintaining power supply reliability through forward-looking strategies

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides beforehand cushioning by maintaining adequate battery charge reserves and having backup power sources ready, cushioning against potential power disruptions while optimizing battery usage during normal operations, thus balancing utilization efficiency with reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS20250363571A1First node and methods performed thereby for determining a source of power

Publication Date: 2025.11.27 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

AI summary

A computer-implemented method, performed by a first node (101). The method is for determining a source of power. The first node (111) operates in a communications system (100). The first node (111) obtains (301) information about a first passive equipment power source (121), a second passive equipment power source (122) and an active power source (123) of a network node (110). The first node (111) then determines (302), using machine learning and the obtained information, a source of power to be used by the network node (110) at a future time period, out of the first passive equipment power source (121) and the second passive equipment power source (122). The determining (306) is based on an estimated cost of the power, and an estimated load at the power source during the time period. The first node (111) also provides (306) a first indication indicating the determined source of power to at least one of the network node (110) and a second node (102) operating in the communications system (100).