Telecom Network Energy-Mix Adaptation for Power-Aware Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Telecommunications networks lack the ability to adapt their operations based on the energy mix of the electrical power they consume, leading to inefficient energy usage, particularly when relying on non-renewable sources.
Innovation Solution
A method and electronic unit within telecommunications networks that receive data on the energy distribution from electrical power sources, allowing adaptation of operations such as reducing energy consumption, selecting less energy-intensive configurations, and adjusting network access based on the energy mix, including modifying transmission power, frequency bands, and network slices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the telecommunications network operates with standard energy consumption patterns, then network functionality and service availability are maintained, but energy efficiency deteriorates when relying on non-renewable energy sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation of network operations by continuously monitoring energy mix data and adjusting network parameters in real-time. The network transitions from static energy consumption patterns to dynamic adjustment based on renewable energy availability, modifying transmission power, processing priorities, and operational configurations to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining service quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters of network entities based on energy mix conditions. When renewable energy availability increases, the network adjusts parameters such as transmission power levels, processing intensities, and operational modes to maximize energy efficiency. This parameter adaptation allows the network to leverage favorable energy conditions while maintaining functionality.
2Loss of energy
If the network adapts operations to reduce energy consumption during non-renewable energy periods, then energy efficiency improves, but network performance and service quality may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic adjustment of network operations synchronized with energy mix variations. During periods of high renewable energy availability, the network operates at optimal performance levels. During periods of low renewable availability, the network periodically reduces consumption while maintaining essential services. This periodic action allows the network to balance energy consumption with service quality requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where network entities receive energy mix information and adjust operations accordingly. The system continuously monitors both energy conditions and service quality metrics, using feedback loops to maintain service quality thresholds while optimizing energy consumption. This feedback ensures that adaptation does not compromise essential service levels.
3Productivity
If the network implements real-time adaptation based on energy mix data, then energy efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into independent entities that can autonomously receive and process energy mix information. Each network entity (base stations, core network elements, user equipment) operates independently with its own adaptation capabilities, rather than requiring centralized control of the entire network. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity while enabling distributed energy optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where network entities autonomously adjust their operations based on received energy mix data without requiring complex external control systems. Each entity independently processes energy information and modifies its own parameters, eliminating the need for elaborate centralized control architecture and reducing system complexity while maintaining optimization capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
In a telecommunications network (4) comprising at least one management infrastructure (2) electrically powered by at least one electrical energy supplier (6) through an electrical network (8), a method comprises the following steps: - reception, by an electronic unit (10; 20) connected to the telecommunications network (4), of data representative of the distribution, by type of production energy source, of the electrical power produced by the electrical energy supplier (6) or available on the electrical network (8); - testing, by the electronic unit (10; 20), of at least one condition relating to said distribution; - when said at least one condition is verified, adaptation of the operation of the electronic unit (10; 20) or of another electronic unit (20) connected to the telecommunications network (4). Corresponding electronic units are also described.