IAB Donor Node Authorization Sync for F1 Interface Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

In existing IAB networks, there is a lack of mechanism for the CU of the IAB-DU to learn the current IAB authorization information when the CU of the IAB-MT is different from the CU of the IAB-DU, leading to inefficiencies in managing IAB node authorization and network control.

Innovation Solution

A communication method and apparatus that ensures the CU of the IAB-DU receives updated IAB authorization information, enabling it to determine whether to establish, maintain, or terminate F1 interfaces and cell configurations based on the authorization status of the IAB node.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the CU of the IAB-MT is different from the CU of the IAB-DU, then the IAB node can operate with separate control units for mobility and data management, but the CU of the IAB-DU cannot obtain current IAB authorization information

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparate control unit managementVSAvoidIAB authorization information
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces the F1 interface as an intermediary communication channel between the CU of the IAB-DU and the entity holding IAB authorization information. This intermediary enables the transfer of authorization information across the distributed architecture, resolving the information loss problem while maintaining the benefits of separate control units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where the CU of the IAB-DU can request and receive current IAB authorization information through the F1 interface. This feedback loop ensures that the distributed control unit always has access to up-to-date authorization status, enabling proper network control decisions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If the IAB node is allowed to operate without centralized authorization monitoring, then network flexibility is improved, but unauthorized operations cannot be prevented

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenetwork flexibilityVSAvoidauthorization control
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The F1 interface acts as a mediator that maintains centralized authorization control while allowing distributed operation. It enables the CU of the IAB-DU to independently verify authorization status without requiring direct involvement of the IAB-MT's CU, thus maintaining reliability while supporting network flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by requiring the CU of the IAB-DU to obtain authorization information before allowing the IAB node to operate. This advance verification ensures that only authorized operations are permitted, maintaining security and reliability while preserving operational flexibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20260067787A1Communication method and communication apparatus
Publication Date: 2026.03.05 HUAWEI TECH CO LTD
  • US20260067787A1 patent drawing
  • US20260067787A1 patent drawing
  • US20260067787A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This application provides a communication method. In an example, a first donor node receives LAB authorization information, where the IAB authorization information indicates an authorization status of a first LAB node, the first LAB node includes a first distributed unit and a first mobile termination, the first mobile termination has an RRC connection to a second donor node, the first distributed unit has an F1 connection to or attempts to establish an F1 connection to the first donor node, and the first donor node and the second donor node are different donor nodes; and the first donor node determines, based on the IAB authorization information, whether the first IAB node is allowed to serve UE.