Boundary IAB Node Traffic Routing in NR Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high demand for cost-effective wireless backhauling technology in new radio (NR) communication systems, which require a large number of base stations, is not efficiently met by existing solutions, leading to challenges in service coverage and network management.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for traffic routing in an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) network that involves a boundary IAB node capable of receiving addresses from donor nodes in different topologies, rewriting destination addresses using mapping tables, and routing data between IAB nodes to prevent collisions and ensure efficient data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical cables are used for backhaul, then network reliability is improved, but deployment cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical cable-based backhaul system with a wireless communication system. The IAB nodes establish wireless backhaul links to connect to donor nodes, eliminating the need for physical cable installations while maintaining network connectivity and reliability through multi-hop wireless transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces IAB (Integrated Access and Backhaul) nodes as intermediary elements that can function both as access points for user equipment and as relay nodes for backhaul transmissions. These intermediary nodes enable wireless backhaul routing without requiring direct cable connections between all network elements, reducing deployment complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Area of stationary object
If a large number of base stations are installed to ensure service coverage, then service coverage is improved, but installation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines access and backhaul functions into a single IAB node architecture. Each IAB node simultaneously provides wireless access to user equipment and establishes backhaul connections to donor nodes, eliminating the need for separate access and backhaul infrastructure. This merging reduces the total number of base stations required while maintaining comprehensive service coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The IAB nodes are designed with multi-functionality, serving dual purposes as both access points for end users and relay nodes for backhaul transmissions. This universal design allows a single network element to perform multiple functions, reducing the overall network complexity and the number of base stations needed to achieve the required service coverage area.
3Measurement precision
If routing tables are configured for each topology separately, then routing precision is improved, but routing table collision and management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the routing management function by introducing topology-specific routing tables at each IAB node. Each routing table is associated with a specific topology (first topology or second topology), allowing precise routing decisions for each topology while preventing collisions between routing entries from different topologies. The boundary IAB node maintains separate routing tables for each topology it connects to.
Solution Approach 2:
The boundary IAB node acts as an intermediary that manages routing between different topologies. It maintains separate routing tables for each topology and uses mapping tables to translate addresses between topologies, enabling precise routing without causing conflicts. This intermediary approach allows each topology to maintain its own routing precision while the boundary node coordinates between them.
4Adaptability or versatility
If address mapping is implemented at boundary IAB nodes, then adaptability between topologies is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring mapping tables at boundary IAB nodes before data transmission occurs. The mapping tables contain pre-established address translations between different topologies, allowing the boundary node to quickly translate addresses without complex real-time calculations. This preliminary preparation reduces processing complexity during actual data routing while maintaining high adaptability between topologies.
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method of a boundary IAB node between a first topology and a second topology in a communication system may include: receiving, from a first IAB donor node included in the first topology, a first address of a first node included in the second topology; receiving, from a node connected to the boundary IAB node, data including a relay request using a second address as a destination address; rewriting the destination address of the data with the first address indicated by the second address in a mapping table; and routing the data towards the first node.