Relay Node Access Control in NPN Cells Using SIB1 Flags

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of Non-Public Networks (NPN) and Integrated Access and Backhaul (IAB) nodes in cellular communication systems lacks effective communication control methods, preventing IAB nodes from accessing NPN cells.

Innovation Solution

A communication control method that includes modifying the System Information Block 1 (SIB1) to include IAB support information within NPN identifier or PLMN identifier lists, allowing IAB nodes to determine access permissions based on specific NPN or PLMN identifiers, thereby enabling seamless integration and access.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If NPN identifier lists are added to SIB1 for NPN support, then NPN access control is improved, but IAB node access to NPN cells is blocked because IAB support information is not included

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveNPN access controlVSAvoidIAB node access to NPN cells

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines NPN identifier lists with IAB support information flags within the same SIB1 structure. Each NPN identifier entry includes an associated IAB support indicator, merging the functionality of NPN access control with IAB node access permission into a unified information structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The SIB1 message structure is enhanced to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides NPN access control for general UEs while also enabling IAB node access to NPN cells through the inclusion of IAB support information flags within the NPN identifier lists.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If SIB1 is modified to include IAB support information, then IAB node access capability is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional information elements

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveIAB node access capabilityVSAvoidSIB1 information structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The IAB support information is nested within the existing NPN identifier list structure in SIB1. Rather than creating a separate top-level structure, the IAB support flags are embedded as optional fields within each NPN identifier entry, allowing the information to be contained within the existing framework.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If IAB support information is included in NPN identifier lists, then coexistence of NPN and IAB nodes is improved, but information transmission overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveNPN and IAB node coexistenceVSAvoidSIB1 information volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements partial inclusion of IAB support information by providing it as an optional field within NPN identifier lists. Not all NPN identifiers need to include IAB support flags, allowing the system to transmit only the necessary information for cells that actually support IAB nodes, thereby reducing overall information overhead.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentEP4117331B1Communication control method and relay node

Publication Date: 2025.08.06 KYOCERA CORP

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AI summary

A communication control method according to a first aspect is a method used in cellular communication system including a relay node for relaying communication between a base station and user equipment. The communication control method includes the steps of: broadcasting, by the base station managing a cell belonging to a Non-Public Network (NPN), a system information block including an NPN identifier identifying the NPN to the cell; receiving, by the relay node, the system information block from the base station; and determining, by the relay node, whether an access from the relay node to the cell is permitted, based on the system information block.