IAB Time-Domain Resource Configuration for Flexible 5G Backhaul
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of efficiently configuring time domain resources in an Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) network to improve utilization and throughput is exacerbated by the complex network topology and the need for flexible resource allocation in 5G mobile communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A method for configuring time domain resources in IAB networks using an uplink-flexible-downlink time domain resource format, allowing for flexible allocation based on periodicities, with options for bitmap representation and explicit/implicit indication of resource lengths and priorities, enabling simultaneous uplink and downlink transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If time domain resources are configured using fixed formats in IAB networks, then network topology complexity is reduced, but resource utilization and throughput deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling flexible configuration of time domain resource formats where uplink and downlink resources can be dynamically adjusted based on actual network conditions. The IAB donor can configure different time domain resource formats for different IAB nodes, allowing the system to adapt to varying traffic demands and network states, thereby improving resource utilization without being constrained by fixed formats.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by allowing the IAB donor to modify time domain resource configuration parameters such as the number of uplink slots, downlink slots, and flexible slots in different periodicities. This enables optimization of resource allocation according to specific network scenarios, resolving the contradiction between simplified configuration and improved throughput.
2Productivity
If flexible time domain resource configuration is implemented in IAB networks, then resource utilization and throughput are improved, but configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the time domain resources into distinct periodicities (e.g., first periodicity, second periodicity) with different resource formats. Each periodicity can be independently configured with specific uplink-downlink patterns, allowing complex resource allocation to be managed through modular, segmented configurations rather than monolithic complex settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing a configurable time domain resource format system that can serve multiple IAB nodes with different requirements using a unified configuration framework. The IAB donor can apply different resource formats (e.g., uplink-heavy, downlink-heavy, or balanced) across multiple nodes based on their specific needs, achieving flexible adaptation without requiring separate dedicated configurations for each scenario.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional downlink-flexible-uplink time domain resource format is used, then compatibility with existing systems is maintained, but uplink transmission efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by introducing alternative time domain resource formats where the traditional downlink-first sequence is reversed or modified to prioritize uplink transmissions. Specifically, the patent configures time domain resources in an uplink-flexible-downlink order, placing uplink slots at the beginning of periodicities rather than at the end, thereby inverting the traditional structure to optimize uplink efficiency while maintaining overall system compatibility.
Data Source
Figure 1~3A
Figure 3B(a)~3B(b)
Figure 3C
AI summary
Embodiments of this application disclose a time domain resource format configuration method. In addition to configuring time domain resources for an IAB node based on a downlink-flexible-uplink time domain resource format, an IAB donor may further configure time domain resources for the IAB node based on an uplink-flexible-downlink time domain resource format, so that the time domain resources can be flexibly configured for the IAB node, to improve utilization and a throughput of the time domain resources in an IAB network.