IAB Node UL Power Control via Dynamic Range Signaling

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Solution Overview

Problem

In Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) nodes, existing power control methods face challenges in managing transmission power differences between IAB-MT and IAB-DU, leading to interference and linearity issues due to varying transmit powers, especially when co-existing with low-power UEs or other IAB nodes.

Innovation Solution

A method for signaling a transmission power dynamic range between IAB-MT and IAB-DU, allowing the parent node to configure the IAB node's operation based on a dynamic range report, which includes maximum and minimum transmission power values, to ensure optimal power control and minimize interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If IAB-MT transmits at high power to maintain backhaul link quality, then backhaul link reliability is improved, but receiver linearity at parent node deteriorates due to large power difference with low-power UEs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebackhaul link reliabilityVSAvoidreceiver linearity degradation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic power control where the IAB-MT adjusts its transmit power based on real-time conditions. The MT determines a dynamic range between maximum and minimum transmit powers and signals this range to the parent node, enabling adaptive power adjustment rather than fixed high-power transmission, thus maintaining reliability while preventing receiver saturation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the power parameter dynamically by having the IAB-MT determine and signal a dynamic range between maximum and minimum transmit power values. The parent node uses this information to configure appropriate power levels, transforming the static power scenario into a dynamic one that adapts to traffic conditions and interference levels.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Object-affected harmful factors

If IAB-MT transmits at low power to maintain receiver linearity, then receiver linearity is improved, but backhaul link quality deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereceiver linearityVSAvoidbackhaul link quality
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static low-power transmission to dynamic power control where the IAB-MT determines appropriate power levels within a signaled dynamic range. This enables the system to use low power when conditions permit (maintaining linearity) while allowing higher power when backhaul link quality requires it, resolving the contradiction through adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the IAB-MT determines and signals its dynamic power range capabilities to the parent node. The parent node uses this feedback to configure appropriate transmit power levels, creating a closed-loop system that balances receiver linearity requirements with backhaul link quality needs based on actual operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Device complexity

If IAB node uses fixed power control method, then implementation complexity is reduced, but ability to adapt to varying transmit power conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower control implementation complexityVSAvoidadaptability to power variations
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The IAB-MT autonomously determines its own dynamic power range between maximum and minimum transmit powers and signals this information to the parent node. This self-service approach allows the system to adapt to varying conditions without requiring complex centralized power control algorithms, maintaining simplicity while improving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces dynamic power range determination at the IAB-MT side, transforming the static fixed power control into a dynamic system. The MT adapts its power behavior based on its own operating conditions and signals the appropriate dynamic range, enabling flexibility without significantly increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240244538A1UL power control in IAB nodes
Publication Date: 2024.07.18 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US20240244538A1 patent drawing
  • US20240244538A1 patent drawing
  • US20240244538A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Providing uplink (UL) power control in Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) nodes is disclosed herein. In one embodiment of a method performed in a network node for signaling a transmission power dynamic range of its IAB Mobile Termination (IAB-MT) to a second network node, the method comprises determining at least one dynamic range between two transmission power values. The method further comprises transmitting a dynamic range report to the second network node, wherein the dynamic range report comprises the at least one dynamic range.