IAB Inter-Donor Migration Using BAP Routing and CU Handover
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Solution Overview
Problem
The deployment of IAB nodes in wireless communication networks faces challenges with high costs and complexity due to the need for optical fiber connections, especially in scenarios where fiber deployment is not feasible, and existing specifications do not adequately address inter-donor migration procedures, leading to inefficiencies in network flexibility and resource management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Backhaul Adaptation Protocol (BAP) layer in IAB nodes and donors for routing packets and mapping UE bearers, along with enhanced migration procedures that include IP address management and security protocols, to facilitate seamless inter-donor migration and resource allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If optical fiber connections are deployed to every base station, then network reliability is improved, but deployment cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces IAB nodes as intermediary elements that create wireless backhaul connections between donor nodes and remote base stations. These intermediate nodes relay traffic and control plane signaling, eliminating the need for direct fiber connections to every base station while maintaining network reliability through multi-hop wireless paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/optical fiber connection system with a wireless communication system. Instead of physically laying fiber cables to every base station, the solution uses radio frequency transmissions through IAB nodes to establish backhaul connections, significantly reducing deployment complexity and cost.
2Ease of manufacture
If wireless backhaul is used instead of fiber, then deployment flexibility and cost are improved, but network complexity and migration management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the CU function universal by enabling it to serve multiple IAB nodes and manage inter-donor migrations. The CU performs multiple functions including resource allocation, mobility management, and coordination of migrations between different donor nodes, simplifying the overall network architecture despite the complexity of wireless backhaul.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the CU continuously monitors the status of IAB nodes and their connections to donor nodes. This feedback enables the CU to make informed decisions about when and how to initiate migrations, manage resource allocation dynamically, and maintain network stability despite the inherent complexity of wireless backhaul operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If inter-donor migration procedures are not standardized, then network adaptability is improved, but migration efficiency and resource management deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent defines specific parameters and procedures for inter-donor migrations, including message formats, timing relationships, and resource allocation parameters. By standardizing these parameters, the patent enables efficient and predictable migration processes while maintaining the ability to adapt to different network configurations and scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is performed by a source Central Unit (CU) in an Integrated Access and Wireless Access Backhaul (IAB) network. The method includes transmitting, by the source CU, a message requesting a handover of a plurality of migrating devices associated with a first IAB node migrating from the source CU to a target CU. The message comprises at least one globally unique identifier of at least one management function serving the plurality of migrating devices.