IAB Node Beam Restriction via TCI Deactivation for SDM Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) networks face challenges with beam interference and resource management in spatial division multiplexing (SDM) operations, leading to reduced network performance and increased latency.
Innovation Solution
Configuring beam restriction for IAB nodes by indicating restricted beams using Transmission Configuration Indicators (TCIs), allowing IAB-MT and IAB-DU to operate simultaneously in the same time-frequency resources, and providing separate TCI configurations for SDM and TDM modes to manage interference and optimize resource usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If spatial division multiplexing (SDM) is used to increase network capacity, then network performance and capacity are improved, but beam interference increases and network reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the beam configuration into separate TCI states for different spatial relations (first spatial relation for parent link, second spatial relation for child link). This segmentation allows independent configuration and selection of beams for different links, enabling SDM while managing interference through targeted beam restriction rather than global restrictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by configuring different TCI states with specific spatial relations for different links (parent and child). Each link can have its own beam configuration optimized for its specific spatial requirements, allowing SDM operation while maintaining reliability through localized beam management rather than uniform treatment.
2Reliability
If beam restriction is applied to manage interference in SDM operations, then network reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the TCI configuration mechanism universal by using the same TCI state structure for both first spatial relation (parent link) and second spatial relation (child link). This multi-functional approach allows beam restriction to be applied consistently across different links without requiring separate complex configuration mechanisms, thereby managing reliability while controlling complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate TCI configurations are provided for SDM and TDM modes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the IAB node to dynamically switch between SDM and TDM operation modes based on network conditions. The same TCI configuration framework supports both modes, with the node adapting its behavior dynamically - using beam restriction for SDM when capacity is needed, and relaxed configuration for TDM when simplicity is preferred, thereby achieving high adaptability without proportional complexity increase.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system and apparatus are provided. In one embodiment, an IAB node is provided. The IAB node includes processing circuitry configured to determine at least one restricted beam for an IAB-distributed unit, IAB-DU, of a child IAB node when operating in spatial division multiplexing, SDM, and indicate the at least one restricted beam for configuring the child IAB node where the indication of the at least one restricted beam corresponds to a deactivation of a Transmission Configuration Indicator, TCI state, which would be available when operating in time division multiplexing, TDM.