JP6875496B2 - Consumption report on access node energy saving mode - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to methods and corresponding devices for managing cellular wireless networks.

For example, as specified by 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), cellular wireless networks can increase capacity by utilizing multiple access nodes with overlapping coverage areas (often referred to as "cells"). Known to give. For example, in some part of a macro cell, one or more small cells may be provided within the coverage area of the macro cell to provide extended capacity.

However, providing such overlapping coverage areas generally comes at the expense of increased power consumption (compared to basic coverage with virtually no overlap of coverage areas). Moreover, the actual capacity required can vary, and the extended capacity provided by overlapping coverage areas is not always required. Given this situation, a mechanism is provided that allows the cell to be temporarily deactivated while it is not needed to provide expanded capacity. For example, 3GPP TS 36.423 V13.2.0 (2015-12) deactivates a cell and also reports an activated / deactivated status to the neighboring access node via an interface called "X2". Describe the possibility of doing so.

However, from a network perspective, managing cell activation and deactivation for energy saving purposes is a complex task as the required capacity can vary over time and location. In addition, deactivating cells can result in increased load on neighboring cells or overlapping cells, making it difficult to assess energy savings.

Therefore, there is a need for techniques that allow the efficient management of cellular radios in wireless devices for cellular radio networks, especially with regard to energy saving features.

According to embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a method of managing a cellular wireless network. According to the method, the access node controls further access node switching to the energy saving mode. In addition, the access node monitors the energy consumption of the access node. In addition, the access node receives reports from additional access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of additional access nodes. Based on the monitored access node energy consumption and the indicated additional access node energy consumption, the access node determines energy saving information that represents the energy savings associated with switching the further access node to energy saving mode. ..

A further embodiment of the invention provides a method of managing a cellular wireless network. According to this method, the access node receives control information from additional access nodes. Based on the control information, the access node switches to energy saving mode. In addition, the access node monitors the energy consumption of the access node. In addition, the access node sends a report to additional access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of the monitored access node.

A further embodiment of the invention provides a method of managing a cellular wireless network. According to the method, the management node receives energy saving information from an access node configured to control further access node switching to energy saving mode. The energy saving information represents the energy saving associated with further switching the access node to the energy saving mode.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, an access node for a cellular wireless network is provided. The access node is configured to control further access node switching to energy saving mode. In addition, the access node is configured to monitor the energy consumption of the access node. In addition, the access node is configured to receive reports from additional access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of additional access nodes. In addition, the access node provides energy saving information that represents the energy savings associated with switching the further access node to energy saving mode, based on the energy consumption of the monitored access node and the energy consumption of the further access node indicated. Set to determine.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, an access node for a cellular wireless network is provided. The access node is configured to receive control information from additional access nodes. In addition, the access node is configured to switch to energy saving mode based on control information. In addition, the access node is configured to monitor the energy consumption of the access node. In addition, the access node is configured to send reports to additional access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of the monitored access node.

A further embodiment of the invention provides a management node for a cellular wireless network. The management node is configured to receive energy saving information from an access node that is configured to control further access node switching to energy saving mode. The energy saving information represents the energy saving associated with further switching the access node to the energy saving mode.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, a computer program or computer program product comprising program code that will be executed by at least one processor of an access node of a cellular wireless network, for example, in the form of a non-temporary storage medium. Provided at. Execution of the program code causes the access node to control further access node switching to energy saving mode. In addition, the execution of the program code causes the access node to monitor the energy consumption of the access node. In addition, program code execution causes the access node to receive reports from additional access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of additional access nodes. In addition, the execution of the program code is associated with energy savings associated with switching the access node to energy saving mode based on the energy consumption of the monitored access node and the energy consumption of the additional access node indicated to the access node. Lets determine the energy saving information that represents.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, a computer program or computer program product comprising program code that will be executed by at least one processor of an access node of a cellular wireless network, for example, in the form of a non-temporary storage medium. Provided at. Execution of the program code causes the access node to receive control information from additional access nodes. Further, the execution of the program code causes the access node to switch to the energy saving mode based on the control information. In addition, the execution of the program code causes the access node to monitor the energy consumption of the access node. In addition, the execution of the program code causes the access node to send reports to further access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of the monitored access node.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, a computer program or computer program product comprising program code that will be executed by at least one processor of the management node of the cellular wireless network is, for example, in the form of a non-temporary storage medium. Provided at. Execution of the program code causes the management node to receive energy saving information from an access node that is configured to control further access node switching to energy saving mode. The energy saving information represents the energy saving associated with further switching the access node to the energy saving mode.

Details of such embodiments and further embodiments will be apparent from the embodiments for carrying out the following inventions of the embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a diagram schematically illustrating a cellular wireless network environment in which connectivity is controlled according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the fluctuation of the load with respect to the access node, and the load threshold value for controlling the switching of another access node to the energy saving mode by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the message flow for exemplifying an example of a process by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for exemplifying the method by one Embodiment of this invention which can be implemented by an access node. It is a block diagram for exemplifying the function of the access node by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for schematically exemplifying a further method according to one embodiment of the present invention which can be implemented by an access node. It is a block diagram for exemplifying the function of the further access node by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart for schematically exemplifying a further method according to one embodiment of the present invention which can be implemented by a management node. It is a block diagram for exemplifying the function of the management node by one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which schematically illustrates the exemplary structure of the access node according to one embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which schematically illustrates the exemplary structure of the management node according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, the concept according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention will be described in more detail and with reference to the accompanying drawings. An exemplary embodiment relates to managing a cellular wireless network, specifically with respect to switching one or more access nodes to energy saving mode. Cellular radio networks can be obtained, for example, based on LTE (Long Term Evolution) technology specified by 3GPP. However, it should be understood that other cellular radio technologies, such as UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications Systems) technology or 5G (5th generation) cellular radio technology, may also be utilized.

In the illustrated concept, it is assumed that the first access node controls the switching of the second access node to the energy saving mode. This is useful in scenarios where the first access node serves to provide basic coverage in a coverage area and the second access node provides additional capacity in some part of this coverage area. obtain. For example, the first access node may serve a macro cell and the second access node may serve a small cell within the coverage area of this macro cell.

In the scenario described above, the first access node generally has access to information that allows it to assess whether the additional capacity provided by the second access node is required. Therefore, based on this information, the first access node can automatically control whether to switch to the energy saving mode and from the energy saving mode to the second access node. For example, the first access node measures the load of the first access node, for example in terms of processor load or interface load, and when the load falls below the threshold, the first access node is the first. This load is threshold because it is possible to provide sufficient performance to serve all wireless devices within the coverage area of the access node and therefore does not require the additional capacity provided by the second access node. Below, the second access node may be switched to energy saving mode. On the other hand, if the load increases above the threshold, the first access node will start the second access node from the energy saving mode because it needs the additional capacity provided by the second access node. Can be.

In the illustrated concept, the first access node monitors its own energy consumption. In addition, the first access node receives a report from the second access node indicating the energy consumption of the second access node. Based on the energy consumption of the first access node itself and the reported energy consumption of the second access node, the first access node is then associated with switching the second access node to energy saving mode. Determine energy savings information that represents energy savings. Based on this energy saving information, it is possible to assess whether switching the second access node to the energy saving mode is useful from an energy saving point of view. In this way, for example, switching the second access node to energy saving mode may at the same time increase the load on the first access node, thereby reducing or even eliminating the energy saving effect. Can be taken into account. The first access node can then rather decide not to switch the second access node to energy saving mode. Moreover, in some situations, the energy savings associated with switching the second access node to energy saving mode may be very small, for example below a certain threshold, resulting in the first access node It is preferable if you decide not to switch the second access node to the energy saving mode. In other situations, the energy saving information can indicate that by switching the second access node to the energy saving mode, for example, a high energy saving above a certain threshold can be achieved, and as a result, the second. It is preferable if the first access node decides to switch the second access node to the energy saving mode, even though the additional capacity provided by the access node will be useful. Corresponding behavior can be implemented, for example, by adjusting the load thresholds described above to determine whether to switch to or from energy saving mode the second access node.

The energy saving mode of the second access node can be based on switching off some part of the second access node. For example, the radio function of the second access node can be deactivated in energy saving mode. In addition, other functions, such as some control function for controlling the connection of the wireless device to the second access node, may also be deactivated in the energy saving mode. In some scenarios, only the functionality required to bring the second access node out of energy saving mode by the first access node can be active in energy saving mode, and all other features are non-existent. Be activated. In view of these characteristics, the energy saving mode is sometimes called "sleep mode".

The energy consumption reported by the second access node may also include the energy consumption of the second access node while the second access node was in energy saving mode. The energy consumption of the second access node can be measured by the energy meter associated with the second access node. The energy meter remains operational in the energy saving mode of the second access node and shows the energy consumption in the energy saving mode to the second access node after the second access node is activated from the energy saving mode. obtain. The energy meter is clamped to the main power input of the second access node and can therefore allow measurement of all contributions to the energy consumption of the second access node. In addition, the energy consumption of the second access node while the second access node was not in energy saving mode can also be measured and reported.

The first access node may similarly monitor its own energy consumption. That is, the energy consumption of the first access node can be measured, for example, by an energy meter associated with the first access node, clamped to the mains input of the first access node. The monitored energy consumption of the first access node may include the energy consumption of the first access node while the second access node is in the energy saving mode. In addition, the monitored energy consumption of the first access node may include the energy consumption of the first access node while the second access node was not in energy saving mode.

The first access node may utilize the determined energy saving information to locally control the switching of the second access node to the energy saving mode. In addition, the first access node may also present energy saving information to the management node of the cellular wireless network. The management node can then evaluate the energy saving information, further taking into account the energy saving information from other access nodes in some cases. Depending on the energy saving information, the management node may determine the management information for controlling the switching of the second access node to the energy saving mode and show the management information to the first access node. The first access node can then control the switching of the second access node to the energy saving mode according to the management information given by the management node. For example, the management information may specify the load thresholds described above for switching the second access node to or from the energy saving mode.

Therefore, the above-mentioned reports of energy consumption can be used to efficiently manage the switching of one or more access nodes to the energy saving mode.

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary scenario to which the concepts described above can be applied. In detail, FIG. 1 illustrates access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C of a cellular wireless network. Further, FIG. 1 also illustrates a management node 150 that implements management functions for access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C. The access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C may correspond to a base station of a cellular wireless network, for example, an eNB of LTE technology. The management node 150 may correspond to the operation support system (OSS) and / or the network management system (NMS) of the cellular wireless network.

As illustrated, each of the access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C serves the corresponding coverage areas 10-A, 10-B, 10-C of the cellular radio network. These coverage areas are sometimes referred to as cells in cellular wireless networks. In such coverage areas 10-A, 10-B, 10-C, wireless devices, often referred to as UEs (user devices), are cellular radios via the corresponding access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C. Can connect to the network. In the scenario of FIG. 1, access node 100-A serves coverage area 10-A, access node 100-B serves coverage area 10-B, and access node 100-C serves coverage area 100-C. ..

As further illustrated, coverage areas 10-B and 10-C are at least partially overlapped by coverage areas 10-A. Specifically, coverage areas 10-B and 10-C correspond to small coverage areas located within coverage area 10-A. Coverage area 10-B is completely located within coverage area 10-A, i.e., is fully overlapped by coverage area 10-A. Coverage area 10-C extends beyond coverage area 10-A, i.e., is only partially overlapped by coverage area 10-A. Coverage area 10-A is assumed to provide basic coverage within coverage area 10-A, and coverage areas 10-B and 10-C provide the capacity of the cellular radio network in some portion of coverage area 10-A. Used to extend. Therefore, the access node 100-A may be referred to as a "coverage node", and the access nodes 100-B and 100-C may be referred to as a "capacity node". Here, the additional capacity provided by coverage areas 10-B, 10-C can be utilized to serve more wireless devices and / or to give some wireless devices increased performance. Please note.

As further illustrated, energy meters (EM) 110-A, 110-B, 110-C are provided to each of the access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C. The energy meter 110-A is associated with the access node 100-A, the energy meter 110-B is associated with the access node 100-B, and the energy meter 110-C is associated with the access node 100-C. The energy meters 110-A, 110-B, 110-C are external devices clamped to the main power input (AC or DC) of the respective access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C, respectively. Each access node 100-A through an interface that allows access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C to show the results of measurements made by the energy meters 110-A, 110-B, 110-C. , 100-B, 100-C. However, in some implementations, the energy meters 110-A, 110-B, 110-C can also be implemented as internal components of the corresponding access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C. I want to be understood. Each of the energy meters 110-A, 110-B, 110-C has, for example, the corresponding access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C in view of the used input power accumulated over time. It is assumed to measure energy consumption.

As further exemplified, the access node 100-B is connected to the access node 100-B by the interface 50-B. Similarly, the access node 100-C is connected to the access node 100-A by the interface 50-C. Interfaces 50-B, 50-C may correspond to the LTE technology X2 interface specified in, for example, 3GPP TS 36.423 V13.2.0 (2015-12). In the illustrated concept, the access node 100-A enters or exits the energy saving mode by transmitting the corresponding control information to the access node 100-B through the interface 50-B. It is assumed to control the switching of −B. Similarly, the access node 100-A of the access node 100-C to or from the energy saving mode by transmitting the corresponding control information to the access node 100-C via the interface 50-C. Control switching. The control information includes, for example, a command for switching the access nodes 100-B and 100-C to the energy saving mode, or a command for activating the access nodes 100-B and 100-C from the energy saving mode. Can include. In addition, access node 100-B may utilize interface 50-B to report to access node 100-A the energy consumption of access node 100-B as measured by the energy meter 110-B. Similarly, access node 100-C may utilize interface 50-C to report to access node 100-A the energy consumption of access node 100-C as measured by the energy meter 110-C. The reported energy consumption is the energy consumption while the access nodes 100-B and 100-C were in the energy saving mode and the energy consumption while the access nodes 100-B and 100-C were not in the energy saving mode. Can be distinguished from the energy consumption of. Access nodes 100-B, 100-C may report energy consumption of access nodes 100-B, 100-C when activated from energy saving mode, when switching to energy saving mode, but at other times. Can also report its energy consumption, for example, at regular time intervals while not in energy saving mode.

Access node 100-A is measured by the reported energy consumption and energy meter 110-A to determine the energy saving information associated with switching access nodes 100-B, 100-C to the energy saving mode, respectively. It utilizes the energy consumption of the access node 100-A itself. For this purpose, the access node 100-A includes the energy consumption of the access node 100-A itself while the access nodes 100-B and 100-C are in the energy saving mode, and the access nodes 100-B, respectively. It can be distinguished from the energy consumption of the access node 100-A itself while 100-C was not in energy saving mode.

For example, for a given time interval, the energy consumption of the access node 100-B while in the energy saving mode is specified as C _B-ES, the energy consumption of the access node 100-B between not in energy-saving mode C _{B -NES} , while access node 100-B was in energy saving mode The energy consumption of access node 100-A was designated _CA-BES , while access node 100-B was not in energy saving mode. When the energy consumption of the access node 100-A _{is specified as CA-BNES} , the energy saving associated with switching the access node 100-B to the energy saving mode can be determined as follows.
ES _B = ( _CB-NES- C _B-ES )-( _CA-BNES- C _A-BES ) (1)

Similarly, for a fixed time interval, the energy consumption of the access node 100-C while in the energy saving mode is designated as _{CC-ES, and the energy consumption of the access node 100-C while not in the energy saving mode is C. Designated as C-NES} , the energy consumption of access node 100-A while access node 100-C was in energy saving mode was designated as _{CA-CES, and access node 100-C was not in energy saving mode.} When the energy consumption of the access node 100-A in between _{is specified as CA-CNES} , the energy saving associated with switching the access node 100-C to the energy saving mode can be determined as follows.
ES _C = (CC _-NES- C _C-ES )-( _CA-CNES- C _A-CES ) (2)

Accordingly, the corresponding energy saving information may be evaluated individually for each of the access nodes 100-B, 100-C, where the access node 100-A controls switching to the energy saving mode.

As further illustrated, the access node 100-A is connected to the management node 150 by the interface 60. The interface 60 may correspond to, for example, a management interface specified in 3GPP TS 32.101 V13.0.0 (2016-01), for example, a management interface based on FTP (File Transfer Protocol). By transmitting the corresponding management information through interface 60, management node 150 controls access node 100-A with respect to control of switching access node 100-B or 100-C to or from energy saving mode. Can be set. The management information may specify, for example, the load thresholds described above for switching access nodes 100-B, 100-C to or from energy saving mode. Further, the interface 60 can be utilized by the access nodes 100-A to transmit energy saving information to the management node 150. The management node 150 may utilize the reported energy saving information to coordinate the management information given to the access nodes 100-A. For this purpose, the management node 150 may also consider the energy saving information reported for other access nodes. For example, when determining management information for access node 100-B, energy saving information for access node 100-C may also be considered. In some cases, management node 150 may also consider energy saving information for access nodes that are not controlled by access node 100-A. That is, a cellular wireless network may include and manage multiple access node systems similar to the access node system of FIG. 1 in which one access node controls one or more additional access nodes with respect to switching to energy saving mode. Node 150 can aggregate and consider energy saving information for all these access nodes. Further, the access node 100-A can also utilize the determined energy saving information locally in order to adapt the control process for switching the access nodes 100-B and 100-C to the energy saving mode.

FIG. 2 illustrates how the coverage access node 100-A can control the switching of one of the capacity access nodes 100-B, 100-C to or from the energy saving mode. The figure of is shown. In detail, FIG. 2 shows an exemplary variation in load on access node 100-A over time. The load is, for example, a load on one or more processors of access node 100-A, a load on one or more interfaces of coverage access node 100-A (eg, a load on a wireless interface), or such a load. It can be defined from the standpoint of combination. Further, FIG. 2 illustrates a high load threshold specified by "high" and a low load threshold specified by "low". If the load remains below the "low" load threshold for a "t1" time period, coverage access node 100-A will take over traffic from capacity access nodes 100-B, 100-C and thus energy saving mode. The capacity access nodes 100-B and 100-C can be switched to. Then, if the load remains above the "high" load threshold for the "t2" time period, the coverage access node 100-A activates the capacity access nodes 100-B, 100-C from the energy saving mode. Can be.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary process based on the concepts outlined above. The process of FIG. 3 involves access nodes 100-A, access nodes 100-B, and management nodes 150. It should be understood that the corresponding process may also be implemented for access node 100-C or other access nodes controlled by access node 100-A with respect to switching to energy saving mode.

In the process of FIG. 3, the management node 150 first transmits the management information 301 to the access nodes 100-A. Based on the management information, the access node 100-A then controls the switching of the access node 100-B to or from the energy saving mode. This can be achieved, for example, on the basis of comparing the load on the access node 100-A with the load threshold, as described with FIG. The management information can then specify, for example, "high" and "low" load thresholds and / or time intervals t1 and t2. In the process of FIG. 3, it is initially assumed that access node 100-B is not in energy saving mode.

As further illustrated by step 302, access node 100-A monitors its own energy consumption. This can be achieved on the basis of measurements by the energy meter 110-A associated with access node 100-A. Similarly, access node 100-B monitors its own energy consumption. This can be achieved with reference to measurements by the energy meter 110-B associated with access node 100-B, as illustrated by step 303.

At some point, access node 100-A may switch access node 100-B to energy saving mode, for example, based on the load on access node 100-B dropping below the "low" threshold. Decide. Accordingly, the access node 100-A transmits the sleep mode command 304 to the access node 100-B. The sleep mode command 304 triggers the switching of access nodes 100-B to energy saving mode. The access node 100-B can confirm the switch to the energy saving mode by responding to the access node 100-A with the sleep mode acknowledgment (ACK) 305.

As further illustrated by step 306, access node 100-A continues to monitor its own energy consumption while access node 100-B is in energy saving mode. Monitoring of energy consumption of access node 100-B continues, as indicated by step 307. Since the access node 100-B is in the energy saving mode and most of the functions of the access node 100-B are deactivated, the energy meter 110-B associated with the access node 100-B is the access node 100-B. Autonomously measures the energy consumption while in the energy saving mode, stores the measurement result, and when the access node 100-B starts from the energy saving mode, the access node 100-B has the measured energy consumption. Can be shown. If the energy meter 110-B is implemented as an internal component of the access node 100-B, the energy meter 110-B may be excluded from deactivation in the energy saving mode.

At some point, access node 100-A moves access node 100-B from energy saving mode to normal operation, for example, based on the load on access node 100-A increasing above the "high" threshold. Decide to switch back. Accordingly, the access node 100-A sends a start command 308 to the access node 100-B. The activation command 308 causes the access node 100-B to leave the energy saving mode. The access node 100-B can confirm that it leaves the energy saving mode by responding to the access node 100-A with the activation command acknowledgment 309.

As further illustrated, access node 100-A may then send consumption report request 310 to access node 100-B, which may be while access node 100-B is in energy saving mode. Can respond with a consumption report 311 showing the energy consumption of access node 100-B and the energy consumption of access node 100-B while access node 100-B was not in energy saving mode. Both contributions to energy consumption are distinct and can be shown as separate values, for example in consumption reports.

Note that the consumption report 311 can be transmitted without a request from the access node 100-A. In addition, consumption report 311 may be included in one or more other messages. For example, energy consumption while access node 100-B was not in energy saving mode could be included in sleep mode command acknowledgment 305, and energy consumption while access node 100-B was in sleep mode would be activated. It can be included in the command acknowledgment 309.

In step 312, access node 100-A calculates the energy savings associated with switching access node 100-B to energy saving mode. This is achieved based on the energy consumption of access node 100-B indicated by consumption report 311 and based on the energy consumption of access node 100-A monitored in steps 302 and 306. For example, energy savings can be calculated using equation (1).

The access node 100-A then transmits energy saving information 313 indicating the calculated energy saving to the management node 150. This report is carried out in the usual manner or in response to some triggering event, for example, in response to a new calculation of energy savings for access node 100-B or some other access node. Can be done. The energy saving information 313 can also aggregate the energy saving of the multiple access node.

Based on the energy saving information received, the management node 150 may determine the updated management information 314, which is then sent to the access nodes 100-A. Access node 100-A then applies updated management information to control switching of access node 100-B to or from energy saving mode.

FIG. 4 shows a flowchart for exemplifying a method of managing a cellular wireless network. The method can be used to implement the illustrated concepts in access nodes that control the switching of one or more other access nodes to energy saving modes, such as access nodes 100-A. If a processor-based implementation of the access node is used, the steps of the method may be performed by one or more processors of the access node. In such cases, the access node may further include memory in which program code or other information for implementing the functions described below is stored.

In step 410, the access node controls further access node switching to energy saving mode, such as access nodes 100-B or 100-C. Energy saving mode deactivates some additional access node features, such as wireless capabilities. Coverage areas controlled by additional access nodes are, for example, coverage controlled by access nodes as described above for coverage areas 10-A and 10-B, or coverage areas 10-A and 10-C. It can overlap at least partially depending on the area. The control procedure of step 410 may involve switching additional access nodes from normal operation to energy saving mode and / or switching additional access nodes from energy saving mode to normal operation. To control further access node switching to energy saving mode, the access node may send control information to further access nodes, such as sleep mode command 304 or wakeup command 308 in FIG.

In step 420, the access node monitors the energy consumption of the access node, i.e., monitors its own energy consumption. The energy consumption of the monitored access node can be based on measurements made by the energy meter associated with the access node, such as the energy meter 110-A. The energy meter may correspond to an external device attached to the access node by an interface. Alternatively, the energy meter may correspond to the internal components of the access node. The energy meter can measure the energy consumption on the mains input of the access node. This main power input may correspond to an AC main input. However, the energy meter can also measure the energy consumption on the DC voltage input of the access node.

The energy consumption of the access node monitored in step 420 may include the energy consumption of the access node while the additional access node was in the energy saving mode. Further, the energy consumption of the access node monitored in step 420 may include the energy consumption of the access node while the additional access node was not in the energy saving mode.

At step 430, the access node receives reports from additional access nodes. The report may be received via an interface connecting the access node with additional access nodes, such as the LTE technology X2 interface. The interfaces 50-B and 50-C described above are examples of such interfaces. The report shows the energy consumption of additional access nodes. The consumption report 311 described above is an example of the report received in step 430.

Energy consumption of additional access nodes can be based on measurements made by energy meters associated with additional access nodes, such as energy meters 110-B. The energy meter may correspond to an external device coupled to an additional access node by an interface. Alternatively, the energy meter may correspond to additional internal components of the access node. Energy meters can measure energy consumption on the mains input of additional access nodes. This main power input may correspond to an AC main input. However, the energy meter can also measure the energy consumption on the DC voltage input of additional access nodes.

The energy consumption of additional access nodes indicated by the report may include the energy consumption of additional access nodes while the additional access nodes were in energy saving mode. In addition, the additional access node energy consumption indicated in the report may include additional access node energy consumption while the additional access node was not in energy saving mode.

At step 440, the access node determines energy saving information that represents the energy savings associated with the further switching of the access node to the energy saving mode. This is achieved based on the energy consumption of the access node monitored in step 420 and the energy consumption of additional access nodes shown in the report received in step 430.

In optional step 450, the access node may send the determined energy saving information to the management node of the cellular wireless network, eg, to the management node 150 described above. This can be achieved through a management interface that connects the access node to the management node, eg, the management interface specified in 3GPP TS 32.101 V13.0.0. The interface 60 described above is an example of such a management interface. The energy saving information 313 described above is an example of the energy saving information sent in step 450.

In optional step 460, the access node may receive management information from the management node. Based on the management information, the access node can then control further access node switching to energy saving mode. For example, management information may specify one or more thresholds for controlling switching to or from energy saving modes, such as the load thresholds described above.

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram for exemplifying the function of the access node 500 that operates according to the method of FIG. As illustrated, the access node 500 may be given a module 510 configured to control further access node switching to energy saving modes, as described with step 410. Further, the access node 500 may be provided with a module 520 configured to monitor the energy consumption of the access node as described with step 420. In addition, the access node 500 may be provided with a module 530 configured to receive reports of energy consumption from additional access nodes, as described with step 430. In addition, the access node 500 is configured to determine energy savings information based on the monitored energy consumption of the access node and the reported energy consumption of additional access nodes, as described with step 440. Module 540 may be given. In addition, the wireless device 500 may optionally be provided with a module 550 configured to transmit energy saving information to the management node, as described with step 450. Further, the wireless device 500 may optionally be provided with a module 560 configured to receive management information from the management node, as described with step 460.

The access node 500 may also include additional modules for implementing other functions, such as a function for controlling the connection to a wireless device or the transfer of data over such a connection, and the access node 500. It should be understood that the module does not necessarily represent the hardware structure of the access node 500, but may also correspond to functional elements implemented by, for example, hardware, software, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 6 shows a flowchart for exemplifying a method of managing a cellular wireless network. The method can be used to implement the illustrated concepts in access nodes controlled by additional access nodes with respect to switching to energy saving mode. The above-mentioned access nodes 100-B and 100-C, which are controlled by the access node 100-A, are examples of such controlled access nodes. If a processor-based implementation of the access node is used, the steps of the method may be performed by one or more processors of the access node. In such cases, the access node may further include memory in which program code or other information for implementing the functions described below is stored.

At step 610, the access node receives control information from additional access nodes. The control information has the purpose of controlling the switching of the access node to the energy saving mode. The sleep mode command 304 or the wakeup command 308 of FIG. 3 is an example of such control information.

At step 620, the access node switches to energy saving mode. This is achieved based on control information. Energy saving mode deactivates some features of the access node, such as wireless capabilities. The coverage area controlled by the access node is, for example, coverage controlled by additional access nodes as described above for coverage areas 10-A and 10-B, or coverage areas 10-A and 10-C. It can overlap at least partially depending on the area. The procedure of step 620 may involve switching the access node from normal operation to energy saving mode and / or switching the access node from energy saving mode to normal operation.

At step 630, the access node monitors the energy consumption of the access node, i.e., monitors its own energy consumption. The energy consumption of the monitored access node can be based on measurements made by energy meters associated with the access node, such as energy meters 110-B or 110-C. The energy meter may correspond to an external device attached to the access node by an interface. Alternatively, the energy meter may correspond to the internal components of the access node. The energy meter can measure the energy consumption on the mains input of the access node. This main power input may correspond to an AC main input. However, the energy meter can also measure the energy consumption on the DC voltage input of the access node.

The energy consumption of the access node monitored in step 630 may include the energy consumption of the access node while the access node was in the energy saving mode. Further, the energy consumption of the access node monitored in step 630 may include the energy consumption of the access node while the access node was not in the energy saving mode.

At step 640, the access node sends a report to additional access nodes. The report shows the energy consumption of the access node monitored in step 630. The report may be sent via an interface connecting the access node with additional access nodes, such as the LTE technology X2 interface. The interfaces 50-B and 50-C described above are examples of such interfaces. The consumption report 311 described above is an example of the report sent in step 640.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram for exemplifying the function of the access node 700 that operates according to the method of FIG. As illustrated, the access node 700 may be given a module 710 configured to receive control information from additional access nodes, as described with step 610. Further, the access node 700 may be given a module 720 configured to switch to energy saving mode based on the received control information as described with step 620. Further, the access node 700 may be provided with a module 730 configured to monitor the energy consumption of the access node as described with step 630. In addition, the access node 700 may be given a module 740 configured to send a monitored energy consumption report to additional access nodes, as described with step 640.

The access node 700 may also include additional modules for implementing other functions, such as the ability to control the connection to wireless devices or the transfer of data over such connections, and the access node 700. It should be understood that the module does not necessarily represent the hardware structure of the access node 700, but may also correspond to functional elements implemented by, for example, hardware, software, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 8 shows a flowchart for exemplifying a method of managing a cellular wireless network. The method serves to manage access nodes that control the switching of one or more other access nodes to energy saving mode, such as management node 150, which serves to manage access nodes 100-A. It can be used to implement the illustrated concept in a fulfilling management node. If a processor-based implementation of the management node is used, the steps of the method may be performed by one or more processors of the management node. In such cases, the management node may further include memory in which program code or other information for implementing the functions described below is stored.

In step 810, the management node receives energy saving information from the access node. The access node is configured to control further access node switching to energy saving mode. Coverage areas controlled by additional access nodes are, for example, coverage controlled by access nodes as described above for coverage areas 10-A and 10-B, or coverage areas 10-A and 10-C. It can overlap at least partially depending on the area. The control procedure may involve switching additional access nodes from normal operation to energy saving mode and / or switching additional access nodes from energy saving mode to normal operation.

The energy saving information represents the energy saving associated with the further switching of the access node to the energy saving mode. Energy saving information can be based on the energy consumption of the access node and the energy consumption of additional access nodes.

The energy consumption of the access node may include the energy consumption of the access node while the additional access node was in the energy saving mode. In addition, the energy consumption of the access node may include the energy consumption of the access node while the additional access node was not in energy saving mode. The energy consumption of the access node can be based on measurements made by the energy meter associated with the access node, eg, by the energy meter 110-A described above.

The energy consumption of the additional access node may include the energy consumption of the additional access node while the additional access node was in the energy saving mode. Further, the energy consumption of the additional access node may include the energy consumption of the additional access node while the additional access node was not in the energy saving mode. The energy consumption of the additional access nodes can be based on measurements made by the energy meters associated with the additional access nodes, eg, by the energy meters 110-B or 110-C described above.

The energy saving information 313 described above is an example of the energy saving information received in step 810.

At the optional step 820, the management node may determine the management information and at the optional step 830, the management information may be sent to the access node. The management information has the purpose of controlling further access node switching to energy saving mode. For example, management information may specify one or more thresholds for controlling switching to or from energy saving modes, such as the load thresholds described above. An example of such management information is the above-mentioned management information 301 or the above-mentioned management information 314. The management node determines the management information based on the received energy saving information.

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram for exemplifying the function of the management node 900 that operates according to the method of FIG. As illustrated, the management node 900 may be given a module 910 configured to receive energy saving information from the access node as described with step 810. Further, the management node 900 may optionally be provided with a module 920 configured to determine management information based on the energy saving information received, as described with step 820. Further, the management node 900 may be given a module 930 configured to send management information to the access node as described with step 830.

The management node 900 may also include additional modules for implementing other functions, such as the function for managing other functions of the access node, and the module of the management node 900 is the hardware structure of the management node 900. However, it should be understood that it may also correspond to functional elements implemented by, for example, hardware, software, or a combination thereof.

It should be understood that the methods of FIGS. 4 and 6 can also be combined in a system comprising an access node operating according to the method of FIG. 4 and an additional access node operating according to the method of FIG. In such a system, the additional access nodes in the method of FIG. 4 correspond to the access nodes in the method of FIG. 6, and the additional access nodes in the method of FIG. 6 correspond to the access nodes in the method of FIG. Also, such a system may further include a management node operating according to the method of FIG.

FIG. 10 shows an exemplary structure that can be used to implement the above concept at the access node 1000, such as one of the access nodes 100-A, 100-B, 100-C. The access node 1000 may correspond to a base station of a cellular wireless network, for example, an eNB of LTE technology.

As illustrated, the access node 1000 may include a wireless interface 1010 for establishing a connection of the wireless device to the access node. If the access node corresponds to the LTE technology eNB, the radio interface 1010 may implement, for example, the LTE technology Uu radio interface. In addition, the access node 1000 may include a network interface 1020 for connecting to other nodes of the cellular wireless network, such as other access nodes or management nodes. If the access node corresponds to the LTE technology eNB, the radio interface 1010 may implement, for example, the LTE technology X2 radio interface. Further, the network interface 1020 can implement, for example, the management interface specified in 3GPP TS 32.101 V13.0.0. Further, the access node 1000 may include an energy meter (EM) interface 1030 for coupling to an external energy meter, such as one of the energy meters 110-A, 110-B, 110-C described above.

Further, the access node 1000 may include one or more processors 1050 coupled to interfaces 1010, 1020, 1030 and memory 1060 coupled to (s) processors 1050. Memory 1060 can be read-only memory (ROM), such as flash ROM, random access memory (RAM), such as dynamic RAM (RAM) or static RAM (SRAM), large capacity storage, such as hard disk or solid state disk. Can include. Memory 1050 contains properly configured program code to be executed by processor 1050 (s) to implement the functions described above for the access node. In particular, the memory 1060 may include various program code modules for causing the access node 1000 to perform, for example, the process described above, corresponding to the method step of FIG. 4 or FIG.

As illustrated, memory 1060 may include an energy saving mode control module 1070 for controlling switching to energy saving mode. If the access node 1000 implements the functionality corresponding to the method step of the access node of FIG. 4, i.e. "controlling", the energy saving mode control module 1070 corresponds, for example, as described with step 410. By transmitting control information, it is possible to implement the ability to switch another "controlled" access node to energy saving mode. If the access node 1000 implements the functionality corresponding to the method step of the access node of FIG. 6, ie "controlled", the energy saving mode control module 1070 further "controls" as described with step 620. Based on the corresponding control information received from the access node, it is possible to implement the ability to switch the access node itself to energy saving mode.

Further, the memory 1060 may include a monitoring module 1080 for implementing the above-described function of monitoring the energy consumption of the access node, as described with step 420 in FIG. 4 or step 630 in FIG.

In addition, the memory 1060 receives or transmits control information, such as described with steps 430, 450, or 460 of FIG. 4 or steps 610 or 640 of FIG. It may also include a signaling module 1090 for implementing the functions described above for transmitting, transmitting energy saving information, or receiving management information.

It is understood that the structure illustrated in FIG. 10 is only schematic and that the access node 1000 may actually include additional components not exemplified, eg, additional interfaces or processors, for clarity. I want to. It should also be understood that memory 1060 may include a further type of program code module not exemplified, eg, a program code module for implementing known functionality of an eNB or other type of access node. .. According to some embodiments, the computer program is also in the form of a physical medium that stores, for example, the program code and / or other data to be stored in memory 1060, or the program code for download or streaming. Can be given to implement the functionality of the access node 1000 by making it available by.

FIG. 11 shows an exemplary structure that can be used to implement the above concept in the management node 1100 of a cellular wireless network. For example, the management node 1000 may implement a similar type of NMS, OS, or management system.

As illustrated, the management node 1100 may include a management interface 1110 for managing nodes in a cellular wireless network, particularly for managing access nodes in a cellular wireless network. The management interface 1110 may implement, for example, the management interface specified in 3GPP TS 32.101 V13.0.0.

Further, the management node 1100 may include one or more processors 1150 coupled to the management interface 1110 and memory 1160 coupled to the (s) processor 1150. The memory 1160 may include a ROM, such as a flash ROM, RAM, such as DRAM or SRAM, mass storage, such as a hard disk or solid state disk. Memory 1160 contains properly configured program code to be executed by processor 1150 (s) to implement the functions described above for the management node. In particular, the memory 1160 may include various program code modules for causing the management node 1100 to perform, for example, the process described above, corresponding to the method step of FIG.

As illustrated, memory 1160 implements the functionality described above that manages the energy saving features of the access node, eg, by determining management information, as described with step 820 of FIG. It may include an energy saving management module 1070 to do so. Further, the memory 1160 is a function described above for receiving energy saving information as described with step 830 of FIG. 8 or a function for transmitting management information as described with step 830 of FIG. May include a signaling module 1180 for implementing.

It is understood that the structure illustrated in FIG. 11 is only schematic, and that management node 1100 may actually include additional components not exemplified, eg, additional interfaces or processors, for clarity. I want to. It is also understood that memory 1160 may include additional types of program code modules not exemplified, such as program code modules for implementing known functions of NMS, OSS, or similar management systems. I want to. According to some embodiments, the computer program is also in the form of a physical medium that stores, for example, the program code and / or other data to be stored in memory 1160, or the program code for download or streaming. Can be given to implement the functionality of management node 1100 by making it available by.

As can be seen, the concepts described above can be used to efficiently manage cellular wireless networks with respect to switching access nodes to energy saving modes. In particular, the actual impact on energy savings associated with switching some access nodes to energy saving mode can be considered in a dynamic and adaptive fashion.

It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described above are merely exemplary and are subject to various changes. For example, the illustrated concept can be applied with various cellular radio technologies and with respect to any number of controlled or controlled access nodes. In addition, various algorithms, not limited to the load-based algorithms described above, may be applied to control switching to energy saving modes. Moreover, the above concepts can be implemented by using correspondingly designed software that should be run by one or more processors of an existing device, or by using dedicated device hardware. I want you to understand. Further note that each of the illustrated nodes can be implemented as a single device or as a system of multiple interacting devices.

Claims (20)

How to manage a cellular wireless network
Controlling the switching of additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to sleep mode by the access node (100-A; 500; 1000).
The access node (100-A; 500; 1000) monitors the energy consumption of the access node (100-A; 500; 1000), and
The access node (100-A; 500; 1000) from the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000). Receiving a report showing the energy consumption of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) while in said sleep mode.
The energy consumption of the monitored access node (100-A; 500; 1000) and the energy consumption of the indicated additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) and the access node. Based on the load of (100-A; 500; 1000) , the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) is the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; to the sleep mode. 1000) A method comprising determining energy saving information representing the energy saving associated with the switch. The method of claim 1, wherein the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) transmits the determined energy saving information to the management node (150; 900; 1100) of the cellular wireless network. .. When the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) receives management information from the management node (150; 900; 1100),
2. The second aspect of the invention, wherein the access node controls the switching of the further access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to the sleep mode based on the management information. the method of. The report further describes that of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) while the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) were not in the sleep mode. Indicates energy consumption,
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The energy consumption of the monitored access node (100-A; 500; 1000) is such that the access node while the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was in the sleep mode. Energy consumption of (100-A; 500; 1000) and / or said access node (100-A) while said additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was not in said sleep mode. Including energy consumption of (500; 1000),
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The coverage area (10-B, 10-C) controlled by the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) is controlled by the access nodes (100-A; 500; 1000). At least partially overlapped by the coverage area (10-A),
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5. That the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) receives control information from the access node (100-A; 500; 1000).
Based on the control information, the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) switch to the sleep mode.
And monitoring the energy consumption of the further access node (100-B, 100-C ; 700; 1000) is the further access node (1000 100-B, 100- C;; 700)
The further access node (100-B, 100-C ; 700; 1000) is, the access node (100-A; 1000; 500 ), monitored the further access node (100-B, 100-C ; 700 ; and transmitting said report indicating the energy consumption of 1000), the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6. How to manage a cellular wireless network
The management node (150; 900; 1100) comprises receiving energy saving information from the access node (100-A; 500; 1000).
The access node (100-A; 500; 1000) is configured to control further access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) switching to sleep mode.
The energy saving information, said further access node to the sleep mode (100-B, 100-C ; 700; 1000) to display the energy savings associated with the switching of, monitored the access node (100-A The energy consumption of the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) and the energy consumption of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) shown and the load of the access node (100-A; 500; 1000). Determined based on
Method. The management node (150; 900; 1100) tells the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to the sleep mode. Sending management information to control switching , and
The method of claim 8 , wherein the management node (150; 900; 1100) determines the management information based on the energy saving information received. The energy consumption of the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) is the said while the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was in the sleep mode. Energy consumption of additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) and / or while the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) were not in said sleep mode. Including the energy consumption of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000).
The method according to claim 8 or 9. The energy consumption of the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) is such that the access node (100-) while the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was in the sleep mode. Energy consumption of A; 500; 1000) and / or said access node (100-A; 500;) while said additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was not in said sleep mode. 1000) including energy consumption,
The method according to claim 8 or 9. The coverage area (10-B, 10-C) controlled by the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) is controlled by the access nodes (100-A; 500; 1000). At least partially overlapped by the coverage area (10-A),
The method according to any one of claims 8 to 11. An access node (100-A; 500; 1000) for a cellular wireless network.
-Controlling the switching of additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to sleep mode,
-Monitoring the energy consumption of the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) and
-From the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to the additional access node while the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was in the sleep mode. receiving a report indicating the energy consumption, (1000 100-B, 100 -C;; 700)
- the access node is monitored and the energy consumption, (100-A; 500; 1000) before and SL energy consumption, indicated before Symbol further access node (1000 100-B, 100- C;; 700) Energy savings associated with the switching of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to the sleep mode based on the load of the access nodes (100-A; 500; 1000). An access node (100-A; 500; 1000) configured to determine and to determine the energy saving information to represent. It said access node (100-A; 500; 1000 ) has been set to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 2 6,
The access node according to claim 13 (100-A; 500; 1000). Access nodes for cellular wireless networks (100-A; 500; 1000) and additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000)
It is a system equipped with
The access node (100-A; 500; 1000) is
-Controlling the switching of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to sleep mode and
-Monitoring the energy consumption of the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) and
-From the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to the additional access node while the additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) was in the sleep mode. Receiving a report showing the energy consumption of (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) and
-The energy consumption of the monitored access node (100-A; 500; 1000) and the energy consumption of the indicated additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) and the access. Energy representing energy savings associated with said switching of said further access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) to said sleep mode based on the load of the node (100-A; 500; 1000). Determining savings information
The additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) are set to do so.
- the access node and receiving control information from the (100-A; 1000; 500 ),
- and to switch on the basis of the control information, to the sleep mode or from the sleep mode,
-Monitoring the energy consumption of the additional access nodes (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) and
- Before Kia Kusesunodo to (100-A; 1000; 500 ), monitored the further access node (100-B, 100-C ; 1000; 700) and transmitting said report indicating the energy consumption of Set to do ,
System . Said access node (100-A, 500; 1000 ) has been set to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 2 6,
The system according to claim 15 . A management node (150; 900; 1100) for a cellular wireless network.
The management node (150; 900; 1100) is configured to receive energy saving information from the access node (100-A; 500; 1000).
The access node (100-A; 500; 1000) is configured to control further access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) switching to sleep mode.
The energy saving information, said further access node to the sleep mode (100-B, 100-C ; 700; 1000) to display the energy savings associated with the switching of, monitored the access node (100-A 500; 1000) energy consumption and the indicated additional access node (100-B, 100-C; 700; 1000) energy consumption and the access node (100-A; 500; 1000) load. Determined based on
Management node (150; 900; 1100). The management node (150; 900 1100), which is configured to perform the steps of the method according to any one of claims 9 12,
The management node (150; 900; 1100) according to claim 17. Access node for a cellular radio network a computer program comprising (100- A;; 500 1 000 ) program code to be executed by at least one processor (1050), running the program code, said access node (100- a;; 500 1 000 ), thereby implementing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the computer program. A computer program comprising program code that will be executed by at least one processor (1150) of a management node (150; 900; 1100) for a cellular wireless network, wherein the execution of the program code is the management node. (150; 900; 1100) to, thereby implementing the steps of the method according to any one of claims 8 to 12, the computer program.

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