IAB Frame Structure Configuration for Interference-Aware Backhaul
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Solution Overview
Problem
The configuration of frame structures in Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) networks causes interference between nodes and prevents simultaneous data transmission and reception, which is inefficient for multi-hop and half-duplex operations in New Radio (NR) networks.
Innovation Solution
A configuration method for frame structures that involves receiving frame structure parameters, determining uplink/downlink divisions, and configuring backhaul link transmissions using common and dedicated frame structure parameters to optimize resource allocation and minimize interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a unified frame structure is used for both access and backhaul links, then network deployment is simplified, but interference between nodes occurs and simultaneous transmission and reception is prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frame structure configuration into two independent parts: access link frame structure parameters and backhaul link frame structure parameters. This allows each link type to have optimized, independent configuration rather than forcing a unified structure, thereby reducing interference while maintaining deployment simplicity through modular parameter management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different frame structure parameters locally to different link types (access vs. backhaul). Each link can have customized uplink/downlink configurations, time slot allocations, and resource patterns tailored to its specific requirements, eliminating the interference problems that arise from forced unification while keeping the overall system manageable.
2Ease of operation
If traditional frame structure configuration is used, then implementation is straightforward, but simultaneous data transmission and reception cannot be performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic parameters that allow the frame structure to adapt its behavior based on operational mode. The IAB node can dynamically switch between half-duplex operation (using traditional configuration) and full-duplex operation (using the new independent parameter set), enabling simultaneous transmission and reception when needed while maintaining backward compatibility for simpler scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal configuration framework that can handle multiple operational modes through a single parameter set. The independent backhaul and access link parameters work together to support both half-duplex and full-duplex operations, as well as multi-hop scenarios, making the system versatile without sacrificing implementation simplicity.
3Productivity
If independent frame structure parameters are configured for access and backhaul links, then resource allocation is optimized and interference is reduced, but configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the configuration into distinct access and backhaul parameter sets, the patent actually reduces the complexity of managing interference and resource allocation. Each segment can be optimized independently without affecting the other, making the overall configuration more manageable despite the increased number of parameters, as each parameter has a clear, dedicated purpose.
4Device complexity
If frame structure parameters are not differentiated for backhaul and access links, then configuration is simple, but multi-hop operations cannot be effectively supported
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frame structure parameters into access-specific and backhaul-specific sets, enabling each hop in a multi-hop network to be independently configured. This allows intermediate IAB nodes to have optimized backhaul parameters for upstream communication while maintaining appropriate access parameters for downstream communication, effectively supporting multi-hop operations without overwhelming configuration complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
Provided are a configuration method and apparatus for a frame structure, and a storage medium. The configuration method for the frame structure includes: receiving, by a first node, frame structure parameters configured by a second node, wherein each frame structure parameter comprises: a period and a type of a frame structure, and the frame structure parameters comprise a common frame structure parameter, a first dedicated frame structure parameter and a second dedicated frame structure parameter; obtaining, by the first node, an uplink/downlink division of the frame structure according to the common frame structure parameter and/or the first dedicated frame structure parameter, and determining, according to the second dedicated frame structure parameter by the first node, the frame structure for uplink transmission of a backhaul link and the frame structure for downlink transmission of the backhaul link.