IAB Inter-Node Measurement Timing via CU-Managed SSB Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IAB networks lack flexibility in dynamically updating and managing synchronization signaling block (SSB) measurement and configuration, particularly in inter-node measurements, due to half-duplex constraints and reliance on manual OAM-based reconfiguration, which is inefficient and disruptive to network operations.
Innovation Solution
The donor IAB node, equipped with a central unit (CU), manages time pattern configurations for child IAB nodes by determining and coordinating SSB transmission and measurement configurations, reducing reliance on Operation, Administration, and Management (OAM) interactions, and enabling efficient inter-node measurement coordination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual OAM-based reconfiguration is used for SSB measurement configuration, then configuration can be updated, but network operations are disrupted and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple SSB transmission configurations (STCs) with different time patterns before runtime. When configuration changes are needed, the CU simply switches between pre-configured STCs using activation/deactivation signaling, avoiding the need for manual OAM reconfiguration during network operations. This preliminary preparation enables rapid adaptation without operational disruption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If dynamic updates of SSB measurement configuration are implemented, then flexibility improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IAB donor CU acts as an intermediary that centrally manages multiple STCs and coordinates their activation/deactivation across child IAB nodes. This centralized management simplifies the complexity by providing a single point of control, where the CU handles all configuration updates and distributes them efficiently, rather than requiring complex distributed coordination among multiple nodes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic configuration management where the CU can activate or deactivate specific STCs based on current network conditions and topology changes. This dynamic switching capability allows the system to adapt to changing requirements without permanent reconfiguration, maintaining flexibility while managing complexity through controlled state transitions.
3Productivity
If multiple STCs are configured for multiple child IAB nodes, then inter-node measurement efficiency improves, but coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The IAB donor CU implements a universal management function that handles STC configuration, activation, and deactivation for all child IAB nodes through a standardized interface. This multi-functional capability allows the CU to manage diverse configuration scenarios (different time patterns, different child nodes) using a unified approach, reducing coordination complexity while maintaining measurement efficiency across the entire IAB network.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, network nodes and apparatus are disclosed. According to one or more embodiments, a donor integrated access backhaul, IAB, node configured with a distributed unit, DU, for communicating with a wireless device and configured with a central unit, CU, for communicating with at least a first child IAB node is provided. The donor IAB node includes processing circuitry configured to indicate a determined first synchronization signaling blocks, SSB, transmission configuration, STC, for the at least first child IAB node, to the at least first child IAB node where the first STC is associated with inter-node measurement.