Backhaul Link Reference Signal Configuration for IAB Networks
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication systems, especially in integrated access and backhaul (IAB) networks, there is a challenge in inter-relay channel monitoring due to blockage, which affects topology management and resource allocation, particularly when traditional methods impact user equipment synchronization.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for configuring a reference signal to manage backhaul links using channel measurement and reporting, with configurations such as time division multiplexing, differing transmission periodicity, and differing transmission beams, minimizing changes to user equipment synchronization procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional inter-relay channel monitoring methods are used, then topology management can be performed, but user equipment synchronization is impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the reference signal into two distinct types: access link reference signals for UE synchronization and backhaul link reference signals for inter-relay channel monitoring. This segmentation allows each type of monitoring to occur independently without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between topology management and UE synchronization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a dedicated backhaul link reference signal as an intermediary mechanism that enables inter-relay channel monitoring without involving user equipment. This intermediary signal allows the gNB to monitor backhaul links independently, preventing disruption to UE synchronization procedures
2Productivity
If backhaul link monitoring is performed using existing reference signals, then resource allocation can be optimized, but user equipment synchronization procedures are disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides reference signal functionality into separate access link and backhaul link reference signals. The backhaul link reference signal is specifically designed for gNB-to-gNB channel quality monitoring, enabling optimized resource allocation for backhaul resources without complicating UE synchronization procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the backhaul monitoring function from the access link reference signal and creates a dedicated backhaul link reference signal. This extraction allows backhaul resource allocation to be optimized independently while keeping UE synchronization procedures simple and unchanged
3Adaptability or versatility
If inter-relay channel monitoring is implemented, then backup backhaul links can be discovered, but the complexity of reference signal configuration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The backhaul link reference signal is designed with multi-functionality, serving both for discovering backup backhaul links and for ongoing backhaul channel quality monitoring. This universal design enables backup link discovery without requiring separate dedicated signals, thereby limiting the increase in configuration complexity
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. A method of configuring a reference signal to manage backhaul (BH) links in an integrated access and BH (IAB) is provided. The method includes providing channel measurement and reporting information, and using the channel measurement and reporting information to discover and maintain backup BH links.