Network-Assisted Wireless Connection Control for UE Battery Saving
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current UE battery saving processes occur solely on the device side, leading to inefficient battery consumption due to suboptimal network resource allocation and distance-dependent power usage, as network procedures prioritize signal strength over proximity to base stations.
Innovation Solution
The network adjusts connection aspects to reduce battery consumption by implementing analytics and policies, such as activating UE battery saving policies in subscription data and adjusting network resource allocation based on UE proximity to base stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the UE attaches to a base station with highest signal power, then the signal strength is improved, but the battery consumption increases due to greater distance from the UE
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the attachment criterion from signal power to geographic proximity by introducing location information. The network node determines the UE's location and selects the base station that is geographically closest, regardless of signal power levels. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by prioritizing distance over signal strength for attachment decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces location information as an intermediary factor between the UE and base station selection. Instead of directly using signal power or distance, the system uses location data as a mediator to make informed attachment decisions. The network node uses this intermediary to calculate distances and identify the optimal base station, resolving the signal strength vs. battery consumption trade-off.
2Reliability
If the network allocates more resources to the UE, then the communication quality is improved, but the battery consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation based on UE battery status. The network node continuously monitors battery level and adjusts resource allocation accordingly. When battery level is high, more resources are allocated for optimal communication quality. When battery level is low, resources are reduced to extend battery life. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between communication quality and energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the resource allocation parameter from static to dynamic based on battery status. The network node modifies transmission parameters such as modulation and coding scheme, power control, and resource block allocation according to real-time battery level measurements. This parameter change enables the system to optimize between communication quality and energy consumption based on current battery conditions.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the UE enters power saving mode, then the battery consumption is reduced, but the UE capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary network-side actions to reduce battery consumption before the UE needs to enter power saving mode. By proactively optimizing attachment decisions and resource allocation based on predicted battery drain rates, the network prevents the need for aggressive UE-side power saving modes. This preliminary action maintains UE capabilities while reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces feedback mechanisms where the UE reports battery status and power mode to the network node, which then adjusts network parameters accordingly. This feedback loop enables the system to optimize the balance between battery consumption and UE capabilities dynamically. The network receives feedback on battery levels and power mode settings, then adjusts resource allocation and attachment decisions to minimize energy consumption while preserving necessary capabilities.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an aspect, there is provided a method of operating a network node in a communication network. The method comprises: receiving (801), from an analysis node in the communication network, a notification to reduce battery consumption of a wireless device that is connected to the communication network; and adjusting (803) one or more aspects of the connection of the wireless device to the communication network according to the received notification.