5G Multi-RAT Relay Architecture for Flexible Access and Backhaul

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in efficiently managing ultra-dense deployments of base stations due to the high cost and complexity of wired backhaul infrastructure, limited support for multi-hop relaying, and inflexibility in using different radio access technologies for access and backhaul links, which hinders efficient QoS and spectrum efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a hybrid multi-RAT relay architecture that allows for interchangeable use of 5G NR, LTE eNB, and WLAN technologies for access and backhaul links, enabling flexible deployment of different radio technologies based on available infrastructure, and supporting diverse use cases in 5G and beyond networks.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If wired infrastructure is used for backhaul link between eNB and EPC, then reliable data transmission is ensured, but deployment cost and maintenance cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedata transmission reliabilityVSAvoiddeployment cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the wired mechanical infrastructure (fiber optic cables, physical backhaul links) with a wireless communication system. Relay nodes use wireless backhaul connections to transmit data between eNBs and EPC, eliminating the need for expensive wired infrastructure deployment while maintaining data transmission functionality through wireless protocols

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces relay nodes as intermediary devices that facilitate wireless backhaul communication. These relay nodes act as mediators between eNBs and the EPC, enabling data transmission without direct wired connections. The relay nodes implement protocol handling and data forwarding functions that allow wireless infrastructure to replace wired backhaul links

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Area of stationary object

If multi-hop wireless relaying is implemented, then service area is expanded and spectrum efficiency is improved, but network complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice areaVSAvoidnetwork complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the wireless network into multiple relay nodes that can be deployed in hierarchical tiers. Each relay node handles specific portions of the network, with upper-tier relay nodes serving multiple lower-tier nodes. This segmentation allows the network to expand service area through multiple hops while managing complexity through modular, tiered architecture where each node has standardized functions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universal relay nodes that can function at multiple levels of the network hierarchy. Relay nodes are designed with multi-functional capabilities to operate as eNBs, lower-tier relay nodes, or upper-tier relay nodes depending on deployment requirements. This universality reduces overall network complexity by using standardized nodes that can adapt to different positions in the multi-hop structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If single RAT is used for both access and backhaul, then network simplicity is maintained, but flexibility to adapt to different infrastructure and use cases is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenetwork simplicityVSAvoidtechnology flexibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic RAT selection where relay nodes can dynamically choose which radio access technology to use for access and backhaul links based on available infrastructure and deployment requirements. The system can adaptively switch between different RATs (e.g., LTE, 5G NR, WLAN) depending on what is available and most suitable for each specific deployment scenario, providing flexibility without requiring complex multi-RAT configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If relay nodes support multiple radio protocols simultaneously, then multi-RAT interoperability is achieved, but device complexity and implementation difficulty increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-RAT supportVSAvoidprotocol complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements relay nodes with selective protocol support rather than requiring full support for all possible RATs. Relay nodes are designed to support the specific RATs needed for their deployment context, with the ability to handle multiple protocols through a standardized interface layer. This partial action approach reduces individual node complexity while maintaining overall system versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS20250287221A1Methods and systems for supporting multi-rat relays in 5g and beyond networks

Publication Date: 2025.09.11 INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY BOMBAY

AI summary

Embodiments herein disclose methods and systems for interchangeably using 5G NR, LTE eNB and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) technologies for access and backhaul links in 5G and beyond networks, which provides greater flexibility for the operators to use non-identical radio technology(ies) for access and backhaul, independent of the backhaul technology used.