O-RAN Cell Activation Control for Dynamic Traffic Energy Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for deactivating cells in radio access networks are based on static thresholds, which fail to adapt to dynamically changing traffic patterns, leading to inefficient energy consumption and increased operational expenses.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an AI-driven approach within the O-RAN architecture to dynamically control cell activation and deactivation based on real-time traffic conditions, using a non-real-time RAN intelligent controller (non-RT RIC) and near-RT RIC to manage cell IDs and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If static threshold methods are used for cell deactivation, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but energy efficiency deteriorates due to inability to adapt to dynamic traffic patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic cell deactivation by transitioning from static threshold methods to a dynamic system that continuously monitors traffic patterns and network load. The network entity determines cell deactivation based on real-time traffic conditions, enabling the system to adapt its behavior to changing demands while optimizing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the network entity receives information about traffic patterns and network conditions, processes this information, and makes informed decisions about cell deactivation. This feedback loop enables the system to respond to actual network demands rather than relying on predetermined static thresholds.
2Reliability
If more cells are kept active to handle traffic variations, then service reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by deactivating only the specific cells that are not currently needed based on real-time traffic analysis, rather than keeping all cells active or deactivating cells based on fixed thresholds. This approach maintains sufficient service capacity while reducing energy consumption by activating only the necessary number of cells.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the operational state parameter of cells (active/inactive) based on traffic conditions. By continuously monitoring network parameters and adjusting cell activation states accordingly, the system maintains service reliability when needed while reducing energy consumption during low-traffic periods.
3Loss of energy
If dynamic traffic-based cell control is implemented, then energy efficiency is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network entity that acts as an intermediary between the radio access network and the core network. This intermediary collects traffic information, makes deactivation decisions, and coordinates with relevant network elements, thereby managing the complexity of dynamic cell control in a centralized and organized manner.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cell control function into distinct operational steps: monitoring traffic patterns, determining deactivation candidates, coordinating with network entities, and executing deactivation. This segmentation of the control process makes the complex dynamic system more manageable and implementable through structured procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a method performed a network entity in a wireless communication system using an open-radio access network (O-RAN), the network entity including at least one of a non-real-time RAN intelligent controller (non-RT RIC) and near-RT RIC, the method comprises configuring at least one node with a list of cell IDs representing cells to be activated or deactivated based on a condition in a network, and transmitting, to the at least one node, information including the list of cell IDs.