IAB Node Multiplexing Configuration for Simultaneous Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current integrated access backhaul (IAB) networks in 5G/NR systems face challenges in achieving simultaneous operation of child and parent links for load balancing and improved reliability, as existing solutions do not support concurrent use of redundant routes for resource multiplexing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of methods for IAB nodes to send and receive indications of simultaneous operation capabilities, configuring multiplexing settings based on received configurations, and updating configurations in response to changing conditions, allowing for time domain, frequency domain, and spatial domain multiplexing between IAB-DU and IAB-MT, enabling flexible resource allocation and interference mitigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IAB networks use traditional sequential operation for child and parent links, then device complexity is reduced, but network performance and reliability deteriorate due to inability to achieve load balancing and simultaneous operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic multiplexing configuration that allows IAB nodes to flexibly switch between different operation modes (simultaneous operation, time-division multiplexing, frequency-division multiplexing) based on real-time network conditions, traffic demands, and interference levels. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to optimize reliability without permanent complexity increases
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters including time resource allocation, frequency resource allocation, and spatial beam configurations to enable simultaneous child and parent link operations. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, the network achieves improved reliability and load balancing while managing device complexity through controlled parameter variation
2Productivity
If IAB nodes enable simultaneous operation of child and parent links, then resource utilization improves, but interference between UE and IAB transmissions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments radio resources into distinct time slots, frequency bands, and spatial beams for different link types (child links, parent links, UE access). This segmentation allows simultaneous operation while minimizing interference through resource isolation, enabling high resource utilization without excessive interference
Solution Approach 2:
The network introduces intermediary control mechanisms including multiplexing configuration messages, interference coordination signaling, and resource allocation protocols that mediate between simultaneous transmission demands and interference constraints. These intermediaries enable productive simultaneous operation while controlling harmful interference effects
3Adaptability or versatility
If IAB networks support concurrent use of redundant routes, then load balancing capability improves, but signaling overhead and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universal multiplexing configuration frameworks that serve multiple functions simultaneously: enabling load balancing, supporting redundancy, facilitating simultaneous operation, and managing interference through a single integrated signaling mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces overall signaling overhead compared to separate mechanisms for each capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary configuration of multiplexing patterns, resource allocations, and operational modes before simultaneous child and parent link operations begin. This advance preparation reduces real-time signaling overhead by establishing frameworks in advance that guide subsequent operations without requiring continuous detailed signaling
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include methods for an integrated access backhaul (IAB) node serving a cell in a wireless network. The IAB node can include an IAB distributed unit (IAB-DU) and an IAB mobile terminal (IAB-MT). Such methods include sending, to an IAB donor centralized unit (CU) in the wireless network, an indication of one or more simultaneous operation capabilities of the IAB-DU and the IAB-MIT and receiving from the IAB donor CU a multiplexing configuration based on the simultaneous operation capabilities. Such methods also include configuring one or more of the following for operation in the cell according to the received multiplexing configuration: one or more child IAB nodes; and one or more user equipment (UEs). Other embodiments include complementary methods for an IAB donor CU and a parent IAB node of the IAB node, as well as IAB nodes and IAB donor CUs configured to perform such methods.