IAB Bearer Mapping Signaling for Backhaul RLC Channels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current IAB networks lack signaling for proper mapping of UE bearers to backhaul RLC channels, particularly in split architectures, leading to inefficiencies in determining bearer mappings and quality of service configurations.

Innovation Solution

Implement signaling between the CU-CP and CU-UP to provide mapping information for UE bearers to backhaul RLC channels, using differentiated services code points (DSCP) and IP Flow Labels, ensuring appropriate bearer mapping configurations for one-to-one or N-to-one mappings based on quality of service requirements.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If signaling for bearer mapping is implemented in split architecture, then quality of service delivery is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequality of service deliveryVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the base station into CU-CP (Central Unit-Control Plane) and CU-UP (Central Unit-User Plane) segments. The CU-CP is responsible for control plane functions including bearer context setup and modification, while the CU-UP handles user plane functions including bearer to RLC channel mapping. This segmentation allows QoS management to be distributed appropriately, improving service delivery while managing complexity through functional separation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary signaling mechanism between CU-CP and CU-UP that carries bearer mapping information. This intermediary communication protocol enables the CU-CP to provide QoS parameters and bearer context information to the CU-UP, which then uses this information to perform appropriate bearer to RLC channel mapping. The intermediary signaling resolves the contradiction by providing a standardized interface that manages complexity while enabling sophisticated QoS control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Productivity

If bearer mapping configuration is optimized, then resource utilization is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveresource utilizationVSAvoidmapping configuration precision

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables dynamic parameter changes in bearer mapping configurations through signaling between CU-CP and CU-UP. The system can adjust mapping parameters such as RLC channel selection, bearer context attributes, and QoS parameters based on network conditions and service requirements. This flexibility allows optimization of resource utilization without requiring fixed, precision-critical manufacturing configurations, as parameters can be adapted through software-based signaling rather than hardware-level precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS12520188B2Mapping information for integrated access and backhaul

Publication Date: 2026.01.06 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)

AI summary

Mapping Information for Integrated Access and BackhaulEmbodiments described herein relate to methods and apparatus for providing IAB mapping information. A method performed by CU-CP of a base station configured as a donor base station for one or more IAB nodes comprises transmitting a first message to setup or modify a first bearer context for a first bearer in a central unit user plane, CU-UP, of the base station, wherein the first message comprises an information element indicating mapping information for use in determining a mapping of the first bearer to a backhaul radio link control, BH RLC, channel.