IAB Configuration Exchange for Multi-PLMN RAN Sharing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication technologies face challenges in efficiently managing integrated access and backhaul networks, particularly in next-generation systems like 5G and NR, due to issues such as network connectivity, energy consumption, spectral efficiency, and latency, especially when dealing with IAB-capable and non-IAB-capable devices and networks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of methods and devices that facilitate communication protocols and configurations for IAB networks, including the exchange of system information, capability messages, and F1-C traffic handling, to support RAN sharing, CU/DU separation, and multi-hop relay links, enabling flexible deployment of dense NR cell networks without increasing conventional network elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If IAB networks are deployed to support next-generation wireless communications, then spectral efficiency and network capacity are improved, but network complexity and device compatibility issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments network nodes into IAB-capable nodes and non-IAB-capable nodes, allowing differentiated functionality. IAB-capable nodes perform both access and backhaul functions, while non-IAB-capable nodes perform only access functions, enabling the network to maintain simplicity for existing devices while introducing advanced functionality where needed.
Solution Approach 2:
IAB-capable network nodes are designed with multi-functionality, supporting both access and backhaul operations. These nodes can operate in multiple modes (IAB mode, access node mode, or relay mode) and are compatible with both IAB and non-IAB devices, thereby improving spectral efficiency without requiring complete network replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RAN sharing is implemented to support multiple PLMNs, then network versatility is improved, but capability coordination and signaling complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary capability negotiation between network nodes before establishing connections. Nodes exchange capability information messages to determine supported PLMNs and operational modes in advance, allowing the network to pre-configure routing and signaling paths for multiple PLMNs without increasing real-time signaling complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where network nodes report their supported PLMNs and capabilities to neighboring nodes and the core network. This feedback enables automatic configuration of RAN sharing parameters and PLMN routing, reducing manual configuration complexity while maintaining support for multiple networks.
3Area of stationary object
If multi-hop relay links are used to extend network coverage, then area coverage is improved, but latency and connection management complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection in multi-hop relay networks, where IAB-capable nodes can dynamically switch between different relay paths based on current network conditions. This allows the system to optimize latency by selecting the most efficient path while maintaining extended area coverage through flexible topology reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts and separates backhaul traffic from access traffic by introducing dedicated backhaul links and interfaces. This separation allows independent optimization of backhaul routing and access services, reducing the impact of multi-hop relaying on user experience latency while maintaining extended coverage.
4Adaptability or versatility
If IAB-capable nodes are integrated into existing networks, then network flexibility is improved, but compatibility issues with non-IAB devices worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by allowing IAB-capable nodes to operate with full functionality only where needed, while maintaining standard compliance at non-IAB nodes. IAB-capable nodes can selectively enable advanced features such as wireless backhaul and multi-PLMN support only in contexts where both endpoints and devices support these features, ensuring backward compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
IAB-capable network nodes function as intermediaries between IAB and non-IAB devices. These nodes translate and adapt signaling protocols, allowing seamless communication between heterogeneous devices. The intermediary nodes handle protocol conversion and capability negotiation, ensuring that non-IAB devices can access the network without requiring IAB-specific functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, apparatus for implementation in an integrated access and backhaul network (IAB) are described. One example method for wireless communication includes transmitting, by a first network node connected to one or more second network nodes by one or more first wireless links, a system information message on a second wireless link, the system information message indicating all public land mobile networks to which the one or more second network nodes provide connectivity.