IAB Node Network Slice Support Determination
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Solution Overview
Problem
In backhaul communication networks using IAB technology, user equipment (UE) may not be provided with the desired network slice if it is not supported by the route over which it connects, leading to communication service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A communication device functions as a node in an IAB network, determining whether a requested network slice is supported by connected nodes and switching connections to nodes that support the desired slice type, ensuring the UE can access the required communication service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the UE connects to an IAB node using the current route, then the connection is established, but the desired network slice cannot be provided if it is not supported by the route
Solution Approach 1:
The IAB node performs preliminary determination of network slice support capability before finalizing the connection. The node determines whether a requested network slice type is supported by the connected IAB node or IAB donor, and proactively switches connections to nodes that support the desired slice type, preventing service disruption before it occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts connection routes based on real-time network slice support requirements. When a UE requests a specific network slice, the IAB node dynamically determines support capability and switches connections to appropriate nodes, making the network adaptable to changing service requirements rather than static.
2Reliability
If the IAB node switches connections to support the desired network slice, then the network slice can be provided, but connection stability may be affected during switching
Solution Approach 1:
The IAB node determines network slice support capability in advance before switching connections. By performing the determination of whether the requested network slice is supported by the current or alternative nodes beforehand, the system prepares the switching action, reducing instability during the transition process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the UE requests a specific network slice, then the desired service can be obtained, but the system complexity increases due to slice determination and route switching
Solution Approach 1:
The IAB node autonomously determines whether the requested network slice is supported by the connected IAB node or IAB donor without requiring complex external control. The node independently performs the determination and executes connection switching based on the determined support capability, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device, that functions as a node connected to user equipment in an IAB (Integrated Access and Backhaul) network, performs: determining whether a type of a network slice requested by the user equipment is supported by a first other node connected above the communication device; determining, when the communication device determines that the type of the network slice is not supported by the first other node, whether at least one other node that can connect above the communication device, supports the type of the network slice is present; and, when the communication device determines that at least one other node that supports the type of the network slice is present, connecting to a second other node among the at least one other node that supports the type of the network slice.