Radio Unit PA Power Allocation Using PV and DC Supply

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication networks face challenges in reducing power consumption, particularly in 5G radio units, where the use of Direct Current (DC) power limits energy savings, and there is a need for more environmentally friendly energy solutions.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a method and apparatus that controls the allotment of power input between Power Amplifiers (PAs) in radio units, utilizing both Direct Current (DC) and Photovoltaic (PV) power, where the amount of power to be transmitted by each PA is established and PV power availability is considered to optimize energy usage, allowing for the integration of renewable PV power when possible.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If DC power is used to power radio units, then reliable power supply is ensured, but energy savings are limited and environmental impact increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy savingsVSAvoidpower supply reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines DC power and PV power into a unified power supply system for radio units. The power management unit dynamically allocates power from both sources based on availability and requirements, merging traditional grid power with renewable solar power to achieve both energy savings and reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the power allocation parameters dynamically based on PV power availability, traffic load, and operational requirements. The power management unit adjusts the proportion of PV power versus DC power in real-time, optimizing energy usage while ensuring continuous reliable operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Loss of energy

If PV power is integrated into radio units, then environmental friendliness improves, but power availability becomes variable due to weather conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental impactVSAvoidpower availability adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The power management unit continuously monitors PV power availability, weather conditions, and radio unit power requirements. Based on this feedback, it dynamically adjusts power allocation strategies, ensuring optimal use of PV power when available while maintaining operational reliability during variable weather conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements dynamic power allocation where the proportion of PV power versus DC power changes continuously based on real-time conditions. The power management unit adapts the power supply configuration dynamically, transitioning between different power mixing ratios to optimize environmental performance while ensuring operational continuity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Productivity

If power is allocated to multiple PAs, then communication capacity increases, but total power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecommunication capacityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different power allocation strategies to different Power Amplifiers based on their individual traffic load and power requirements. The power management unit identifies which PAs have higher priority or greater power needs and allocates PV power preferentially to those units, ensuring that power is distributed according to local needs rather than uniformly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach reduces energy consumption and environmental impact by utilizing PV power more efficiently, lowering noise generation and adapting to variable weather conditions, while maintaining high energy efficiency and accuracy in power distribution.

Implementation Method 1

The radio unit has access to DC power and PV power

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11979113B2Apparatus and a method in a wireless communications network
Publication Date: 2024.05.07 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US11979113B2 patent drawing
  • US11979113B2 patent drawing
  • US11979113B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling allotment of power input between at least two PAs of a radio unit for data communication in a wireless communications network is provided. The radio unit has access to Direct Current (DC) power and Photovoltaic (PV) power. The amount of power to be transmitted out from each respective PA out of the at least two PAs established, and information related to the amount of PV power available is obtained. The allotment of power input of DC power and PV power between the at least two Pas is then controlled based on the established amount of power to be transmitted out from each respective PA out of the at least two PAs, and the obtained information related to the amount of PV power available.