IAB Timing Delta MAC CE for Case #6 Uplink Synchronization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G New Radio (NR) networks face challenges in maintaining synchronization and reducing cross-link interference in integrated access and backhaul (IAB) nodes, particularly in scenarios where both IAB-DU and IAB-MT transmissions occur simultaneously, as current timing alignment methods are inadequate for case #6 timing mode.
Innovation Solution
Enhanced signaling is introduced to independently align IAB-DU timing without relying on case #1 timing mode, using a Timing Delta MAC CE to determine and apply timing information for IAB nodes, enabling simultaneous IAB-DU and IAB-MT transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If case #1 timing mode is used for IAB nodes, then timing alignment is simplified, but simultaneous IAB-DU and IAB-MT transmissions cannot occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic timing adjustment mechanisms that allow the system to adapt between different timing modes. The gNB can dynamically switch between case #1 timing mode (for simplified alignment) and case #6 timing mode (for simultaneous transmissions) based on operational requirements, making the timing system flexible rather than fixed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the timing alignment process into independent components: IAB-DU timing alignment and IAB-MT timing alignment can be handled separately through independent MAC CE signaling. This segmentation allows simultaneous transmissions to occur without requiring complex coordinated timing across both paths
2Productivity
If case #6 timing mode is implemented, then simultaneous transmissions are enabled, but cross-link interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the gNB monitors interference levels and timing conditions, then adjusts timing parameters and MAC CE signaling accordingly. This feedback loop allows the system to maintain simultaneous transmissions while managing cross-link interference through adaptive timing adjustments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary timing adjustments and signaling before simultaneous transmissions occur to prevent cross-link interference. By pre-configuring timing parameters and using advance MAC CE signaling to coordinate IAB-DU and IAB-MT transmissions, the system proactively manages interference rather than reacting to it
3Measurement precision
If manual configuration is used for timing alignment, then precision can be controlled, but configuration complexity and manual effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service timing alignment where the gNB automatically generates and sends MAC CE signaling to configure timing parameters. The system performs self-configuration through automated measurement and signaling, eliminating the need for manual configuration while maintaining precision through algorithmic timing adjustment
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and computer programs for timing enhancement for an integrated access and backhaul node are disclosed. A method includes receiving a control element that is used to determine a timing mode and/or associated timing information for an integrated access and backhaul node; determining the timing mode and/or the associated timing information for the integrated access and backhaul node, based on the control element; and applying the timing mode and/or the associated timing information for a subsequent uplink transmission for the integrated access and backhaul node.