IAB Link Information Reporting Across MAC, F1, and RRC Layers

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

There is no effective link information reporting solution suitable for Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) scenarios in New Radio (NR) networks, which hinders timely and accurate reporting of link information.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for IAB nodes to transmit link information, including flow control, highest delivered Packet Data Convergence Protocol Sequence Number (PDCP SN) information, link state, and transmission state information to other IAB nodes or donors, using various transmission methods such as MAC, adaptation, F1, and RRC messages.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If link information reporting is implemented in IAB scenarios, then the reliability of data transmission is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple transmission methods and message types

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelink information reporting reliabilityVSAvoidtransmission method complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments link information reporting into multiple message types (MAC CE, adaptation layer, F1 AP, RRC) with different priorities and transmission layers. Each message type handles specific reporting scenarios, dividing the complex reporting function into manageable segments that can be selected based on network conditions and requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces multiple dimensions for link information reporting: different transmission layers (physical layer via MAC CE, adaptation layer, F1 interface, RRC layer), different message priorities, and different reporting triggers. This multi-dimensional approach allows the system to select appropriate reporting methods based on specific scenarios, resolving the contradiction between reliability and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple transmission methods are used for link information, then the adaptability of the system is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to increased configuration and management complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransmission method adaptabilityVSAvoidmessage management ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic selection of transmission methods based on network conditions, message priority, and reporting requirements. The system can dynamically switch between MAC CE, adaptation layer, F1 AP, and RRC messages depending on the scenario, providing adaptability while maintaining operational simplicity through automated selection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the system to automatically select and manage appropriate transmission methods without requiring manual configuration for each scenario. The network entities self-determine the most suitable reporting method based on pre-defined criteria and current network state, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If link information is reported timely and accurately, then the productivity of data packet transmission is improved, but the loss of information increases due to potential message loss in wireless transmission

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata packet transmission efficiencyVSAvoidlink information loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs preliminary actions by using multiple redundant transmission methods and confirmation mechanisms. Before critical link information is lost, the system prepares alternative reporting paths and uses acknowledgment mechanisms to ensure successful delivery, preventing information loss while maintaining high transmission productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where receiving entities acknowledge receipt of link information and request retransmission if necessary. This feedback loop ensures that link information is reliably transmitted without loss, while the automated nature of the feedback maintains high transmission efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12593248B2Information transmission method and device
Publication Date: 2026.03.31 ZTE CORP
  • US12593248B2 patent drawing
  • US12593248B2 patent drawing
  • US12593248B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided are an information transmission method and device. The method includes that: an Integrated Access and Backhaul Links (IAB) node transmits link information to a second IAB node, wherein the second IAB node is an IAB child node or an IAB parent node or an IAB donor. Also provided are an electronic device and a storage medium.