IAB Node Adaptation Layer Routing for 5G Backhaul
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G communication networks, the dense deployment of millimeter-wave cells with limited coverage area leads to complex and costly backhaul connectivity topologies, necessitating efficient methods for configuring adaptation layers in Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) donor and IAB nodes to manage data routing and Quality of Service (QoS) across multiple hops.
Innovation Solution
The configuration of adaptation layers in IAB donor and IAB nodes involves mapping between User Equipment (UE) bearers and IAB node bearers, using hop-by-hop or end-to-end Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) mechanisms to ensure reliable data routing and QoS management, with prioritization of data streams and scheduling based on available resources and QoS requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If independent backhaul connectivity is provided for each deployed cell, then network reliability is improved, but device complexity and deployment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges backhaul connectivity resources by allowing multiple IAB nodes to share common backhaul links through the donor gNB. Instead of providing dedicated backhaul connections to each cell, multiple IAB nodes are configured to route traffic through shared backhaul paths, reducing the overall number of backhaul connections required while maintaining network reliability through coordinated resource sharing and conflict avoidance mechanisms.
2Area of stationary object
If IAB nodes are deployed to extend coverage, then network coverage area is improved, but data routing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary configuration of routing paths and resource allocations before data transmission begins. The donor gNB pre-configures adaptation layer parameters, establishes predetermined routing paths through IAB nodes, and allocates backhaul resources in advance. This preliminary setup simplifies real-time data routing decisions at IAB nodes, as they can forward data according to pre-established routes without complex real-time routing computations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple hops are used for backhauling, then network flexibility is improved, but transmission latency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous data flow through IAB nodes by implementing buffer management and forward error correction mechanisms. Data is continuously forwarded through the multi-hop path without interruption, and error correction codes are embedded to prevent retransmissions that would cause latency. The adaptation layer maintains continuous connectivity sessions, allowing data to flow smoothly through multiple hops without repeated establishment of connections or retransmission delays.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for routing data through IAB nodes 201, 202 in 5G communication networks. Embodiments herein allow routing data between a UE 206 and an IAB donor 200 though IAB nodes 201, 202 using adaptation layers of the IAB donor 200 and the IAB nodes 201, 202. The adaptation layers of the IAB donor 200 and the IAB nodes 201, 202 are configured by defining adaptation layer header and functionality. Mapping is performed between bearers/RLC channels of the UE 206 and the IAB node 202 and between bearers/RLC channels of the IAB nodes 201, 202 and the IAB donor 200. The means to perform the mapping is specified by the adaptation layers of either the IAB donor 200 or the IAB nodes 201, 202. The data is routed through the bearers/RLC channels. The embodiments include managing RLC layer functionality using either hop-by-hop ARQ or end-to-end ARQ.