Relay Node Backup Backhaul Link Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In multi-hop relay networks, the availability of the backhaul link is compromised due to instantaneous changes in network traffic or interruptions of high-frequency links, particularly in New Radio (NR) systems with integrated access and backhaul (IAB) solutions, where high bandwidth and environmental interference can cause service disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A method for maintaining an available backhaul link through establishing a backup backhaul link between relay nodes, where a relay node determines a candidate neighboring node based on measurement results and configures a backup link using CSI-RS or SS/PBCH block measurements, reducing the risk of service interruptions by providing an alternative path for data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a relay node uses a single backhaul link to maintain network simplicity, then device complexity is reduced, but backhaul link availability deteriorates due to congestion and instantaneous interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes backup backhaul links in advance before the primary link fails. The relay node proactively identifies candidate neighboring nodes and pre-configures backup links, so that when the primary backhaul link experiences instantaneous interruption or congestion, the relay node can immediately switch to the backup link without service interruption, thus improving reliability while maintaining reasonable device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes the state of backhaul links based on network conditions. The relay node monitors the quality and availability of the primary backhaul link, and when degradation is detected, it activates the backup link. This parameter change approach allows the system to adapt to varying network conditions, improving reliability without permanently increasing complexity
2Reliability
If the relay node establishes backup backhaul links to improve availability, then backhaul link reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple link management
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the relay node autonomously monitors its own backhaul link quality, identifies when backup links are needed, and performs the switching operation without external intervention. The network node also autonomously manages the backup link configuration and activation, reducing the operational complexity despite having multiple links
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the relay node continuously monitors the primary backhaul link quality and automatically triggers backup link activation when quality thresholds are breached. This closed-loop feedback system simplifies management by automating the decision-making process for when and how to use backup links, balancing reliability improvement with manageable complexity
3Productivity
If high frequency is used to achieve high bandwidth, then data transmission capacity is improved, but link stability deteriorates due to environmental interference and instantaneous interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a backup backhaul link as an intermediary solution. When the primary high-frequency backhaul link experiences instantaneous interruption due to environmental factors, the relay node switches to the backup link (which may operate on a different frequency or through a different path), thereby maintaining data transmission stability while preserving the high bandwidth capability of the primary link during normal conditions
Data Source
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AI summary
This application relates to the field of communications technologies, and provides a link maintenance method and an apparatus in a relay system, to reduce a service interruption latency caused by an instantaneous change of network traffic or an instantaneous interruption of a high frequency link in a multi-hop relay network, avoid service congestion caused by an instantaneous change of a terminal or traffic of a backhaul link, and improve availability of the backhaul link. The method includes: determining, by a first node, a candidate neighboring node to be measured; measuring, by the first node, the candidate neighboring node; determining, by the first node based on a measurement result, whether to establish or delete a backup backhaul link between the first node and the candidate neighboring node; and sending, by the first node, a request to a second node, where the request is used to request the second node to establish or delete the backup backhaul link between the first node and the candidate neighboring node.