IAB Node UICC Profile Management for Backhaul Resilience
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Solution Overview
Problem
In telecommunications systems, especially in high-density areas and mission-critical scenarios, existing Integrated Access Backhaul (IAB) networks face challenges in managing topology when backhaul connectivity to the core network is lost or compromised, as they rely on core network authentication and lack independent configuration capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The system allows IAB nodes to manage their own backhauling profiles using a UICC, enabling local configuration of network topology, including switching between nominal and fallback profiles, and utilizing a topology management server for updates and sensitive data handling, allowing for independent operation even when the core network is unavailable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If IAB nodes rely on core network authentication and topology management, then network control and security are improved, but network resilience and independence deteriorate when backhaul connectivity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple backhauling profiles (nominal profile and fallback profile) in the UICC of IAB nodes before connectivity issues occur. The nominal profile includes core network authentication parameters for normal operation, while the fallback profile contains alternative topology management parameters that can be activated when backhaul connectivity is lost, enabling seamless transition without real-time core network dependency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling IAB nodes to autonomously manage their own backhauling profiles through the UICC. The nodes can independently select between nominal and fallback profiles, perform local topology management decisions, and switch authentication mechanisms without requiring continuous core network control, thereby achieving operational independence while maintaining security
2Adaptability or versatility
If IAB nodes use nominal profile for authentication and topology management, then network security and control are improved, but adaptability to connectivity failures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by maintaining multiple authentication and topology management parameter sets within the UICC. The nominal profile contains secure core network authentication parameters for normal conditions, while the fallback profile contains alternative parameters for disconnected modes. The system dynamically switches between these parameter sets based on connectivity status, enabling adaptability without compromising security in either mode
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing both nominal and fallback authentication parameters in the UICC before connectivity issues arise. This advance preparation allows IAB nodes to immediately switch to fallback authentication mechanisms when backhaul connectivity is lost, ensuring continuous secure operation without real-time security compromises
3Ease of operation
If core network is unavailable or connection is lost, then network independence and resilience are improved, but topology management capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling IAB nodes to autonomously perform topology management using locally stored fallback profiles in the UICC. When core network connectivity is lost, nodes can independently make topology decisions, select optimal backhaul paths, and manage their own connectivity without requiring continuous core network information, achieving operational independence
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies copying by creating a local copy of essential topology management information and authentication parameters within the UICC of each IAB node. This copied data includes fallback profiles that replicate the necessary functionality to operate independently when the core network is unavailable, ensuring topology management capability persists without real-time core network dependency
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a telecommunications system comprising a core network, an Integrated Access Backhaul donor arranged in connection with the core network; and a plurality of Integrated Access Backhaul nodes connected to one Integrated Access Backhaul donor, either directly or by means of other Integrated Access Backhaul nodes. At least some of the Integrated Access Backhaul nodes are configured to operate in different backhauling profiles, and at least some of these Integrated Access Backhaul nodes comprise a UICC which is configured to manage a set of backhauling profiles of the corresponding Integrated Access Backhaul node.