Energy Optimization of Mesh Access Networks

Abstract

This paper deals with the minimization of energy consumption in mesh access networks. As proposed in 3GPP, future wireless access networks will be based in part on mesh technology. Indeed, as all access points cannot be connected by optic fibers to the core networks, we propose to realize a mesh network to connect altogether hotspots and femtocells. To optimize the energy consumption we have developed a Start-and-Stop mechanism permitting to turn-off all unused physical machines. Moreover, we developed a virtual environment to work with virtual machines instead physical machines. This permits to move virtual resources from one physical point to another one. Finally, we describe the piloting system based on the autonomic paradigm, and associated with a knowledge plane. This piloting system is able to minimize the energy consumption in future mesh access networks.