IAB Network Signaling for Interference Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) networks face challenges in efficiently signaling resource details between nodes, particularly in multi-hop scenarios where high data rates and large cellular coverage are required, leading to increased node complexity and interference, which affects network performance and coverage.
Innovation Solution
A method for signaling in IAB networks that includes exchanging information such as multiplexing capability, hop order, outage probability, and load between parent and child nodes, using a joint metric calculation and reporting mechanisms through the F1-AP interface, to determine active modes of operation and configure resources effectively, thereby optimizing network performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If wireless backhaul is used to connect base stations in IAB networks, then network coverage and flexibility are improved, but interference between nodes increases and network performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of resource allocation by introducing joint metric-based resource configuration. The parent node calculates a joint metric considering multiplexing capability, hop order, number of child nodes, outage probability, and load, then uses this metric to determine optimal resource allocation patterns. This parameter change enables dynamic adaptation to varying network conditions, reducing interference while maintaining coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where child nodes report their multiplexing capability and supported modes of operation to the parent node. The parent node uses this feedback information along with its own metrics to make informed resource allocation decisions. This closed-loop feedback system allows the network to adapt to changing conditions and optimize performance.
2Productivity
If resource details are signaled between nodes in IAB networks, then resource allocation efficiency is improved, but signaling complexity and node complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the resource allocation process into distinct components: the parent node calculates a joint metric based on multiple parameters, then uses this metric to determine resource configuration. The child node separately reports its capabilities. This segmentation simplifies the overall complexity by breaking down the resource allocation problem into manageable parts that can be processed independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by having child nodes report their multiplexing capability and supported modes of operation before the actual resource allocation takes place. The parent node uses this pre-reported information along with the joint metric to make informed allocation decisions, avoiding the need for complex real-time negotiations during resource allocation.
3Reliability
If joint metric calculation is used for resource configuration, then network performance is improved, but computational complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by calculating the joint metric based on the most critical parameters (multiplexing capability, hop order, number of child nodes, outage probability, and load) rather than considering every possible factor. This selective approach achieves sufficient network performance optimization without requiring excessive computational resources or time.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method of signalling in an Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) network. The method comprises signalling information related to multiplexing capability and supported modes of operation from the child IAB node to the parent IAB node. An active mode of operation is determined at the child IAB node. The configuration to operate in the active mode of operation is signalled to the child IAB node. Timing Advance (TA) for each active mode of operation, guard information for each active mode of operation are signalled as configuration for the active mode of operation. Further, the method comprises signalling exchanges for fallback from one mode of operation to another at child IAB nodes.