Resource configuration management in wireless communications

Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described in which multiple different wireless resource configurations for a multiple-hop wireless network may be configured and selected to provide for efficient updates to resource configurations. A central entity may configure one or more other nodes of the network with a number of different wireless resource configurations for backhaul communications among the other nodes. A first node may receive the number of different wireless resource configurations, identify wireless resources associated with a first resource configuration that are allocated for backhaul communications, and communicate with a second node using the allocated resources. In the event that the first node determines that a different wireless resource configuration should be used for communications with the second node, the first node may select a second resource configuration from the number of different wireless resource configurations for further communications with the second node.

BACKGROUND

The following relates generally to wireless communications, and more specifically to resource configuration management in wireless communications.

In some wireless communications systems (e.g., 5G new radio (NR) systems), infrastructure and spectral resources for NR access may additionally support wireless backhaul link capabilities in supplement to wireline backhaul connections, providing an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) network architecture. One or more base stations may include centralized units (CUs) and distributed units (DUs) and may be referred to as donor base stations. One or more DUs associated with a donor base station may be partially controlled by CUs associated with a donor base station. The one or more donor base stations (e.g., IAB donors) may be in communication with one or more additional base stations (e.g., IAB nodes) via supported access and backhaul links. IAB nodes may support mobile terminal (MT) functionality controlled and/or scheduled by DUs of a coupled IAB donor, as well as DUs relative to additional entities (e.g., IAB nodes, UEs, etc.) within the relay chain or configuration of the access network (e.g., downstream). Wireless resources for backhaul links and for access links may be configured by a CU, and one or more IAB nodes provide access links and backhaul links in accordance with the resource configuration. Efficient techniques for allocating wireless resources in such networks may be desired.

SUMMARY

The described techniques relate to improved methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses that support resource configuration management in wireless communications. According to various aspects, wireless resource configurations for a multiple-hop wireless network (e.g., an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) network) may be configured and selected to provide for efficient updates to resource configurations based on current network conditions. In some cases, a central entity (e.g., a central unit (CU) of an IAB network) may configure one or more other nodes of the network with a number of different wireless resource configurations for backhaul communications among the other nodes. In some cases, a first node (e.g., an IAB relay node, parent node, child node, etc.) may receive the number of different wireless resource configurations, identify wireless resources associated with a first resource configuration (e.g., time resources, frequency resources, spatial resources, etc.) that are allocated for backhaul communications, and communicate with a second node (e.g., an IAB relay node, parent node, child node, etc.) using the allocated resources. In the event that the first node determines that a different wireless resource configuration should be used for communications with the second node, the first node may select a second resource configuration from the number of different wireless resource configurations for further communications with the second node. In some cases, the first node may provide an indication of the second resource configuration to the second node and, optionally, to the central entity.

A method of wireless communication is described. The method may include identifying, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, selecting, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicating with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

An apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory coupled with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to identify, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

Another apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include means for identifying, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, selecting, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicating with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to identify, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving, from a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network, configuration information that indicates each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations that may be available to the first node for communications with one or more parent nodes or child nodes. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the identifying the first preconfigured resource allocation may include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving, from the central entity, an initial configuration that indicates the first preconfigured resource allocation are to be used for initial communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first preconfigured resource allocation may be a default resource allocation that may be provided in the configuration information.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation may be based on receiving, from a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network, an indication to change to the second preconfigured resource allocation. Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for transmitting an indication that the second preconfigured resource allocation has been selected for communications of the first node to one or more of the parent node, the child node, or a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving, from one or more of the parent node or the child node, an indication of an updated resource allocation at the parent node or the child node, and where the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation may be based on the updated resource allocation. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the indication may be received in a downlink control information transmission, an uplink control information transmission, in a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or any combinations thereof.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first node may be a first child node and the indication of the updated resource allocation may be received from a first parent node, and where the second preconfigured resource allocation may be selected based on a mapping of a subset of the set of preconfigured resource allocations that is compatible with the updated resource allocation of the first parent node.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the mapping of the subset of the set of preconfigured resource allocations that are compatible with the updated resource allocation of the first parent node may be explicitly indicated in configuration information that configures the set of preconfigured resource allocations or determined based on one or more mapping rules. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the indication of the updated resource allocation further indicates that the first node is to select the second preconfigured resource allocation.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first node may be a first parent node and the indication of the updated resource allocation may be received from a first child node, and where the indication of the updated resource allocation may be a request from the first child node to use the updated resource allocation. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first node transmits a response to the first child node that the request is granted and that indicates the second preconfigured resource allocation of the first node.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that one or more preconfigured criteria for switching preconfigured resource allocations have been met, and where the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation is based on the one or more preconfigured criteria. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be received in configuration information from a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a beam that is used for communications between the first node and one or more of the parent node or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first beam and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second beam. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first preconfigured resource allocation and the second preconfigured resource allocation are associated with different multiplexing parameters of the associated first beam and second beam.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a power saving mode that is used for communications between the first node and one or more of the parent node or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first power saving mode and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second power saving mode. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a topological state of one or more of the first node, the parent node, or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first topological state and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second topological state. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a quality of service associated with communications between the first node and one or more of the parent node or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first quality of service and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second quality of service.

A method of wireless communication is described. The method may include configuring, by a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and providing the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

An apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include a processor, memory coupled with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions may be executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to configure, by a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

Another apparatus for wireless communication is described. The apparatus may include means for configuring, by a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and providing the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to configure, by a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for providing an initial configuration to the first node that indicates a first preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations is to be used for initial communications with one or more of the other nodes. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first preconfigured resource allocation may be a default resource allocation that is provided in configuration information that is provided to the first node.

Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for determining that a second preconfigured resource allocation is to be used for the further communications with one or more of the other nodes, and providing an indication to the first node to change to the second preconfigured resource allocation. Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving an indication of acknowledgment from the first node.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the determining that the second preconfigured resource allocation is to be used for the further communications with one or more of the other nodes may be based on one or more preconfigured criteria for switching preconfigured resource allocations. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a beam that is used for communications with one or more of the other nodes, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first beam and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second beam. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the first preconfigured resource allocation and the second preconfigured resource allocation may be associated with different multiplexing parameters of beams used for communications with one or more of the other nodes.

In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a power saving mode that may be used for communications with one or more of the other nodes, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first power saving mode and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second power saving mode. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a topological state of at least one of the first node or one or more of the other nodes, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first topological state and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second topological state. In some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein, the one or more preconfigured criteria may be based on a quality of service associated with communications between the first node and one or more of the other nodes, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first quality of service and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second quality of service. Some examples of the method, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable medium described herein may further include operations, features, means, or instructions for receiving an indication from the first node that a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations is to be used for further communications with one or more of the other nodes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some wireless communications systems (e.g., 5G new radio (NR) systems), infrastructure and spectral resources for NR access may support wireless backhaul link capabilities in supplement to wireline backhaul connections, providing an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) network architecture. One or more base stations may include centralized units (CUs) and distributed units (DUs) and may be referred to as donor base stations (e.g., or IAB donors). One or more DUs associated with a donor base station may be partially controlled by CUs associated with the donor base station. A base station CU may be a component of a database, data center, core network, or network cloud. A network node associated with a radio access technology (RAT) may communicate with a donor base station CU via a backhaul link (e.g., wireline backhaul or wireless backhaul). The one or more donor base stations (e.g., IAB donors) may be in communication with one or more additional base stations (e.g., IAB nodes or relay nodes) and user equipment (UEs). IAB nodes may support mobile terminal (MT) functionality controlled and scheduled by an IAB donor and/or parent IAB nodes relative to the MT supported IAB nodes, as well as DU operability relative to additional entities (e.g., IAB nodes, UEs, etc.) within the relay chain or configuration of the access network (e.g., downstream). For example, an IAB network architecture may include a chain of connected wireless devices (e.g., starting with a donor base station and ending with a user equipment (UE), with any number of IAB relay nodes in between) via link resources that support NR access and backhaul capabilities (e.g., a wireline backhaul or wireless backhaul). While various examples provided herein illustrate and discuss IAB deployments, it is to be understood that the techniques provided herein may be applied to any multiple-hop wireless network in which a central entity may configure other wireless nodes (e.g., parent nodes, child nodes, etc.) for relayed or multi-hop wireless communications.

A relay node may refer to an intermediary node in a relay (e.g., an IAB relay) chain. For example, a relay node may relay communications between a parent node (e.g., an IAB donor, or an IAB node upstream or higher on the relay chain) and a child node (e.g., an IAB node downstream or lower on the relay chain). In some cases, the relay node may refer to the DU or access node function (AN-F) of an intermediary IAB node. A child node may refer to an IAB-Node (e.g., the CU/MT of the IAB-Node) or a UE that is the child of another IAB-Node (e.g., such as the relay node) or an IAB-donor (e.g., the DU/ANF of the IAB-Node or IAB-Donor). A parent node in communication with the relay node may refer to an upstream IAB-Node or an IAB-donor (e.g., the DU/ANF of the IAB-Node or IAB-Donor).

The IAB network architecture may support increased backhaul density within the relay chain, to compensate for mobile capacity density within the one or more service cells corresponding to base stations (e.g., IAB donors, IAB nodes) supported on the network. For example, several IAB nodes may each be in communication with one or more UEs, the IAB nodes controlled and scheduled by one or more DUs via backhaul links. In some cases, a single backhaul connection may support multiple RATs and aid in improving spectral gains.

Such multiple-hop networks may thus use wireless resources (time/frequency resources, spatial resources, etc.) in a shared manner between access links and backhaul links. In some cases, wireless nodes may communicate according to a resource configuration that defines resources that are to be used for access links and backhaul links. Such resource configurations may be managed by a central entity in the wireless network. In some systems, a central entity may semi-statically configure other wireless nodes of the network with resource configurations. For example, a CU in a NR IAB network may provide IAB nodes with a resource configuration via radio resource control (RRC) signaling. The resource configuration may include different types of resources that provide some flexibility to the configured node, such as by providing some resources (e.g., SOFT resources) that can be managed locally and dynamically (e.g., if a parent nodes does not need its allocated (e.g., HARD) resources, it may lend them to its child node). However, in some cases network conditions may change such that, even with some flexibility with SOFT/HARD resources, a resource configuration is relatively inefficient for a connection. Further, updating the resource configuration in such instances is relatively slow and incurs relatively high resource overhead, through the exchange of RRC signaling to provide the new configuration.

Various techniques provided herein provide for enhanced efficiency and reduced overhead that may allow for updated resource configurations based on network conditions. In some cases, a central entity may configure a set of available resource configurations at one or more nodes of a multiple-hop wireless network. The nodes may then select a particular resource configuration for further communications. In some cases, the central entity may configure an initial or default resource allocation, which may be updated as needed when network conditions change (e.g., based on changed traffic characteristics, changed channel conditions, etc.) to another resource configuration of the set of available resource configurations. In some cases, the central entity may provide an explicit indication to switch resource configurations. In other cases, a node may update the resource configuration without an explicit indication from the central entity, and may optionally inform the central entity of an updated configuration. In some cases, a wireless node may determine a new instance of resource configuration is to be used based on an indication from one or more parent node(s) (e.g., in downlink control information (DCI), a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or any combinations thereof), from one or more child node(s) (e.g., in uplink control information (UCI), MAC-CE, or any combinations thereof), based on some preconfigured criteria, or any combinations thereof. Upon changing the instance of the resource configuration at a wireless node, a notification may be provided to one or more of a parent node, child node, central entity, or any combinations thereof.

Thus, the techniques described herein provide for enhanced efficiency and reliability in a wireless network through selection and updating of resource configurations relatively quickly and with relatively low signaling overhead. Such techniques may provide enhanced network capacity by using wireless resources in an efficient manner, and also reduce network overhead through selection of preconfigured resource configurations with relatively little or no overhead signaling that would otherwise be used to provide an updated configuration (e.g., RRC signaling to provide a new resource configuration). Additionally, such techniques may provide enhanced reliability of a network through selection of resource configurations that can adapt to changing network conditions in an efficient and prompt manner.

Aspects of the disclosure are initially described in the context of exemplary wireless communications systems. Aspects of the disclosure are further illustrated by and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flowcharts that relate to resource configuration management in wireless communications.

In some cases, wireless communications systems100may support wireless backhaul communications, and one or more base stations105may include CUs and DUs, where one or more DUs associated with a base station105may be partially controlled by a CU associated with the base station105. The base station CUs may be a component of a database, data center, or the core network130(e.g., a 5G NR core network (5GC)). A base station CU may communicate with a donor base station105via a backhaul link132(e.g., a wireline backhaul or a wireless backhaul). As another example, in IAB networks, a base station CU (e.g., a donor base station105-a) may communicate with the core network130(e.g., the NGC) via a backhaul link132(e.g., a wireline backhaul or wireless backhaul). The donor base station105may be referred to, for example in an IAB network, as an IAB donor and may be in communication with one or more IAB nodes (e.g., other base stations105) operating as base station DUs relative to the IAB donor and one or more UEs. For example, an IAB network may include a chain of wireless devices (e.g., starting with the donor base station105(a RAN node that terminates an interface with the core network) and ending with a UE115, with any number of IAB nodes in between). IAB nodes (e.g., relay nodes) may support MT functionality (which may also be referred to as UE function (UE-F)) controlled and scheduled by an IAB donor, or another IAB node, as its parent node as well as DU functionality (which may also be referred to as an access node function (AN-F)) relative to additional entities (e.g., IAB nodes, UEs, etc.) within the relay chain or configuration of the access network (e.g., downstream). These relay mechanisms may forward traffic along to the additional entities, extend the range of wireless access for one or more base stations, enhance the density of backhaul capability within serving cells110, etc.

In some cases, wireless resource configurations for a multiple-hop wireless network (e.g., an integrated access and backhaul (IAB) network) may be configured and selected to provide for efficient updates to resource configurations based on current network conditions. In some cases, a CU may configure one or more other nodes of the network with a number of different wireless resource configurations for backhaul communications among the other nodes. In some cases, a first node (e.g., an IAB relay node, parent node, child node, etc., at a base station105) may receive the number of different wireless resource configurations, identify wireless resources associated with a first resource configuration (e.g., time resources, frequency resources, spatial resources, etc.) that are allocated for backhaul communications, and communicate with a second node (e.g., an IAB relay node, parent node, child node, etc., at a base station105) using the allocated resources. In the event that the first node determines that a different wireless resource configuration should be used for communications with the second node, the first node may select a second resource configuration from the number of different wireless resource configurations for further communications with the second node. In some cases, the first node may provide an indication of the second resource configuration to the second node and, optionally, to the CU.

FIG.2illustrates an example of a multi-hop wireless communications system200that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, multi-hop wireless communications system200may implement aspects of wireless communications system100. Wireless communication system200may include base stations205,210, and215, and UEs230,240, and250, which may be examples of corresponding devices described herein. In some aspects, wireless communication system200may operate over a mmW radio frequency spectrum band. In some aspects, any of the base stations205,210,215and/or UEs230,240,250, may implement aspects of the described techniques over a licensed radio frequency spectrum band and/or a shared or unlicensed radio frequency spectrum band.

In some aspects, multi-hop wireless communications system200may be an example of an IAB network. For example, base stations205,210, and215may be nodes within an IAB network. Accordingly, base station205may communicate over backhaul link220with base station210, and vice versa (e.g., using a first wireless resource configuration). Base station210may communicate with base station215over backhaul link225(e.g., using a second resource configuration) and/or with UE230over access link235, or vice versa. Base station215may communicate with UE240over access link245and/or with UE250over access link255, or vice versa.

As discussed, various aspects of the present disclosure describe techniques that enable support for wireless communications according to one of a number of preconfigured resource configurations. For example, a central entity (e.g., an entity at the base station205or in a core network) may manage resource configurations used for the backhaul links220,225, and access links235,245,255. In some cases, the central entity may semi-statically configure other wireless nodes of the network (e.g., wireless nodes as base stations205,210,215) with a number of available resource configurations. For example, a CU in an IAB network may provide IAB nodes with a set of available resource configurations via RRC signaling as part of an initial configuration or an updated configuration of the multi-hop wireless communications system200. The wireless nodes may then select a particular resource configuration for communications based on current network conditions.

In some cases, the central entity may configure an initial or default resource allocation, which may be updated as needed when network conditions change (e.g., based on changed traffic characteristics, changed channel conditions, etc.) to another resource configuration of the set of available resource configurations. In some cases, the central entity may provide an explicit indication to switch resource configurations. In other cases, a wireless node may update the resource configuration without an explicit indication from the central entity, and may optionally inform the central entity of an updated configuration. In some cases, a wireless node may determine a new instance of resource configuration is to be used based on an indication from one or more parent node(s) (e.g., in DCI, a MAC-CE, or any combinations thereof), from one or more child node(s) (e.g., in UCI, MAC-CE, or any combinations thereof), based on some preconfigured criteria, or any combinations thereof.

Upon changing the instance of the resource configuration at a wireless node, a notification may be provided to one or more of a parent node, child node, central entity, or any combinations thereof. For example, a child node (e.g., an IAB relay node) operating at base station210may receive an indication from a parent node (e.g., an IAB donor node) operating at base station205that indicates the parent node has adopted a new instance or wireless resource configuration from the set of preconfigured resource configurations. The parent node may transmit an indication of the updated resource configuration in the event that the configuration is changed. The child node, in some cases, may map the indicated parent resource configuration to one or multiple instances of preconfigured wireless resources that are in the set of preconfigured wireless configurations that are at the child node. For example, the parent node may indicate that a configuration that uses a certain slot pattern (e.g., even numbered slots) has been selected for backhaul communications with the parent node, and a mapping may be provided that indicates one or more child node configurations that are compatible with that slot pattern (e.g., a configuration that uses odd slots for child node communications with a downstream node such as base station215). Based on the mapping, the child node may determine an instance of the set of preconfigured resource configurations from the down-selected list for use at the child node. In some cases, such relationships or mapping may be explicitly configured or indicated to the child node (e.g. by a CU), or may be implicitly be inferred by the child node based on one or more rules (e.g., finding a complying resource configuration instance in terms of available/not-available resources and/or uplink/downlink directions). In some cases, the parent node may be aware (e.g., based on an indication from the central entity) about the child node resource configuration instances, and may select and indicate one such instance to the child node.

In some cases, the central entity may provide an indication to another node that a resource configuration is to be updated. In other cases, a wireless node (e.g., a parent node at base station210) may adopt a new instance from the list preconfigured resource configurations without an explicit indication. In some cases, an updated resource configuration may be selected by a parent node based on an indication from one or more child nodes (e.g., a child node at base station215). For example, the child node may send information to the parent node to indicate its own resource configuration (and when/if it changes its configuration), or a request to change its configuration. The parent node, responsive to the indication from the child node, may in return change its own resource. Further, in some cases, the parent node may provide an indication (e.g., response to child node request, or indication of its own changed configuration) to the child node.

In some cases, a wireless node (e.g., a parent node at base station210) may determine that an updated resource configuration is to be selected based on one or more criteria (e.g., one or more preconfigured criteria that may be standardized or provided by a central entity or parent node for selecting or changing an instance of its resource configuration). For example, a parent node may select a resource configuration based on a transmission beam that is used for communications. In such an example, based on the serving beam over a backhaul link with another parent node or donor node, the resources used for communication with one or more child node(s) may be selected. Such techniques may be used when mmW communications are employed for backhaul links, which may use multiplexing techniques (e.g., spatial multiplexing, frequency multiplexing, time multiplexing, or combinations thereof) that may be dependent upon beams used at the parent/child nodes (e.g., when beams need a certain level of spatial separation). In such cases, when a parent node indicates a beam over the backhaul link changes, the child node may autonomously change (and provide an indication of) its resource configuration for its associated child node link(s).

Additionally or alternatively, in cases where resource configurations are updated based on preconfigured criteria, one or more rules can be defined (e.g., in a network specification or configuration provided by a central entity or parent node) for selecting or changing a resource configuration instance. For example, the choice of resource configuration may dependent on a power-saving mode employed for backhaul communications. In such cases, when a parent or child node changes power saving mode, upstream or downstream nodes may autonomously update their associated resource configuration (e.g., with our without providing an indication to a central entity). In other cases, the choice of resource configuration may depend on a topological state of a node (e.g., a hop-level, number of child links, number of parents, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the choice of resource configuration may depend on a traffic or service type being supported by a node (e.g., when there is an active session for high priority traffic such as ultra-reliable low latency communication (URLLC) traffic, the resource configuration could be different to improve the latency, reliability, or both).

Upon selection of an updated resource configuration, the parent node(s), child node(s), and central entity may communicate according to the selected resource configuration until such a time that the resource configuration may again be updated. Thus, such techniques allow for efficient updates to resource allocations based on network conditions and with relatively low signaling overhead, which may enhance overall network efficiency and reliability.

As indicated herein, in some cases resource configuration techniques may be employed in any type of multi-hop wireless network, which may include an IAB network.FIG.3illustrates an example of a IAB network in a wireless communications system300that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, wireless communications system300may implement aspects of wireless communications system100or200. Wireless communications system300(e.g., an NR system, a mmW system, etc.) may supplement wireline backhaul connections (e.g., wireline backhaul links320) by sharing infrastructure and spectral resources for network access with wireless backhaul link capabilities, providing an IAB network architecture.

Wireless communications system300may include a core network305and base stations (e.g., base stations105,205,210,215, ofFIGS.1and2) or supported devices split into one or more support entities (i.e., functionalities) for promoting wireless backhaul density in collaboration with communication access. Aspects of the supporting functionalities of the base stations may be referred to as IAB nodes, such as IAB donor nodes310and IAB relay nodes315. Wireless communications system300may additionally support a number of UEs115, which may communicate on the uplink with one or more IAB donor nodes310, IAB relay nodes315, or a combination of these devices.

Wireless communications system300may include one or more IAB donor nodes310, which may interface between a wireline network and a wireless network. In some cases, an IAB donor node310may be referred to as an anchor node, as the IAB donor node310anchors the wireless network to a wireline connection. For example, each IAB donor node310may include at least one wireline backhaul link320and one or more additional links (e.g., wireless backhaul links325, backup wireless backhaul links330, access links335, etc.). An IAB donor node310may be split into associated base station central unit (CU) and distributed unit (DU) entities, where one or more DUs associated with an IAB donor node310may be partially controlled by an associated CU. CUs of IAB donor nodes310may host layer 3 (L3) (e.g., RRC, service data adaption protocol (SDAP), PDCP, etc.) functionality and signaling. Further, CUs of IAB donor nodes310may communicate with the core network305over a wireline backhaul link320(e.g., which may be referred to as an NG interface). DUs may host lower layer operations, such as layer 1 (L1) or layer 3 (L2) (e.g., RLC, MAC, physical layer, etc.) functionality and signaling. A DU entity of an IAB donor node310may support a serving cell within the network coverage area according to connections associated with wireless backhaul links325and access links335of the IAB network. DUs of the IAB donor nodes310may control both access and backhaul links within the corresponding network coverage and may provide controlling and scheduling for descendant (i.e., child) IAB relay nodes315and or UEs115. For example, a DU may support an RLC channel connection with a UE115(e.g., via an access link335) or with an IAB relay node315(e.g., via a backhaul link, such as a primary wireless backhaul link325or a backup wireless backhaul link330).

IAB relay nodes315may be split into associated mobile terminal (MT) and base station DU entities, where MT functionality of the IAB relay nodes315may be controlled or scheduled by antecedent (i.e., parent) IAB nodes via wireless backhaul links. A parent node to an IAB relay node315may be another (antecedent) IAB relay node315or a donor node310. The MT functionality may be similar to functionality performed by UEs115in the system. An IAB relay node315may not be directly connected to a wireline backhaul320. Instead, the IAB relay node315may connect to the core network305via other IAB nodes (e.g., any number of additional IAB relay nodes315and an IAB donor node310) using wireless backhaul links. The IAB relay node315may transmit upstream (e.g., towards the core network305) in the IAB system using MT functionality. In some cases, DUs of the IAB relay nodes315may be partially controlled by signaling messages from CU entities of an associated IAB donor node310(e.g., transmitted via an F1-application protocol (AP)). The DUs of the IAB relay nodes315may support serving cells of the network coverage area. For example, a DU of an IAB relay node315may perform the same or similar functions as a DU of an IAB donor node310, supporting one or more access links335for UEs115, one or more wireless backhaul links for downstream IAB relay nodes315, or both.

Wireless communications system300may employ relay chains for communications within the IAB network architecture. For example, a UE115may communicate with an IAB node, and the IAB node may relay the data to a base station CU or the core network305either directly or via one or more IAB relay nodes315. Each IAB relay node315may include a primary wireless backhaul link325for relaying data upstream or receiving information from a base station CU or the core network305. In some cases, an IAB relay node315may additionally include one or more backup wireless backhaul links330(e.g., for redundant connectivity or improved robustness). If the primary wireless backhaul link325fails (e.g., due to interference, malfunction at a connected IAB node, movement of IAB nodes, maintenance at IAB nodes, etc.), an IAB relay node315may utilize a backup wireless backhaul link330for backhaul communication within the IAB network. The first (e.g., primary) wireless backhaul link325may be associated with a coverage area and MT functionality may be controlled or scheduled by a first parent node. The one or more secondary backhaul links (e.g., backup wireless backhaul links330) may be associated with a non-collocated coverage area and controlled or scheduled by one or more parent nodes. Each of the primary backhaul connections and the one or more secondary connections may support spectral capabilities to provide network communication over one or more RATs. The one or more IAB nodes may further support base station DU entities and may support multiple backhaul and access links within the relay chain. The DU entities may control or schedule descendant IAB relay nodes315and UEs115within the IAB network (e.g., downstream in the IAB network) via the configured backhaul and access links. That is, an IAB relay node315may act as a relay between an IAB donor node310and one or more descendant devices (e.g., other IAB relay nodes315, UEs115, etc.) in both communication directions based on established backhaul and access connections.

In some cases, the wireless communications system300may support preconfigured wireless resource configurations and dynamic selections thereof in accordance with techniques discussed herein. In some cases, a CU may configure one or more other nodes of the network with a number of different wireless resource configurations for backhaul communications among the other nodes. In some cases, a CU may configure each of the nodes (e.g., donor nodes310, relay nodes315) with the number of different wireless resource configurations (which may be a same set of configurations for each node, or may be different sets of configurations for different nodes). Each node may identify wireless resources associated with a first resource configuration (e.g., time resources, frequency resources, spatial resources, etc.) that are allocated for backhaul communications, and communicate with a second node using the allocated resources. In the event that a node determines that a different wireless resource configuration should be used for communications it may select a second resource configuration from the number of different wireless resource configurations for further communications in accordance with techniques such as discussed with reference toFIGS.1and2.

FIG.4illustrates an example of a process flow400that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, process flow400may implement aspects of wireless communications system100,200, or300. Process flow400may include one or more nodes that may include a central entity405, a first node410, and a second node415, which may be examples of supporting functionality within base stations of a multi-hop wireless network architecture, as described with reference toFIGS.1through3. In the following description of the process flow400, the operations between the nodes405,410,415, may be transmitted in a different order than the exemplary order shown, or the operations performed by the nodes may be performed in different orders or at different times. In some cases, certain operations may also be left out of the process flow400, or other operations may be added to the process flow400.

In this example, at420, the central entity405(e.g., a CU of an IAB network) may configure the first node410(e.g., a parent node or donor node of an IAB network) and the second node415(e.g., a child node of an IAB network) with a set of available resource configurations for multi-hop communications (e.g., backhaul communications between nodes). The set of available resource configurations may provide wireless resource allocations that are to be used for communications between the nodes. In some case, the central entity405may optionally provide an initial configuration or default configuration that is to be used for initial communications. At425, the first node410and the second node415may exchange wireless communications (e.g., backhaul communications, relayed access link communications in the multi-hop network, etc.) according to a first configuration of the set of available resource configurations.

Optionally, at430, the central entity405may determine to update the resource configuration used by one or more of the first node410or second node415. In such cases, at435, the central entity405may transmit a resource configuration update indication to one or both of the first node410or second node415. In some cases, the central entity405may determine to update the resource configuration based on one or more network conditions, such as a type or priority of traffic being exchanged, one or more changes in network topology (e.g., due to other relay nodes coming online or going offline), beam updates, power saving mode, and the like.

At440, the first node410may identify an updated resource configuration for communications with the second node415. In cases where the first node410receives an update indication from the central entity405, such an identification may be based on the received indication. In other cases, the first node410may identify the updated resource configuration based on one or more operating conditions or other configuration changes of the first node410, as discussed herein. At445, the first node410may transmit a resource configuration update indication to the second node415(e.g., in DCI or in a MAC-CE transmission to the second node415). Based on the updated configuration, the first node410and the second node415may, at450, exchange wireless communications (e.g., backhaul communications, relayed access link communications in the multi-hop network, etc.) according to a second configuration of the set of available resource configurations that is indicated in the resource configuration update indication.

Optionally, at455, the second node415may identify an updated resource configuration. In some cases, the second node415may be a child node and may identify the updated resource configuration based on one or more operating conditions or other configuration changes of the second node415, as discussed herein. In such cases, at460, the second node415may transmit a resource configuration update or request indication to the first node410(e.g., in UCI or in a MAC-CE transmission). In some cases, the first node410, based on the update or request indication, may determine an updated resource configuration. At470, the first node410may transmit a responsive resource configuration indication or request grant indication to the second node415, following which the first node410and second node415may communicate according to a third configuration. In some cases, at475, the first node410may provide a configuration status indication to the central entity.

Receiver510may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to resource configuration management in wireless communications, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device505. The receiver510may be an example of aspects of the transceiver820or920as described with reference toFIGS.8and9. The receiver510may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

The communications manager515may operate in a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network and may identify a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

The communications manager515may operate in a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may configure a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations. The communications manager515may be an example of aspects of the communications manager810or910as described herein.

Transmitter520may transmit signals generated by other components of the device505. In some examples, the transmitter520may be collocated with a receiver510in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter520may be an example of aspects of the transceiver820or920as described with reference toFIGS.8and9. The transmitter520may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

FIG.6shows a block diagram600of a device605that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device605may be an example of aspects of a device505, a UE115, or a base station105as described herein. The device605may include a receiver610, a communications manager615, and a transmitter635. The device605may also include a processor. Each of these components may be in communication with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

Receiver610may receive information such as packets, user data, or control information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to resource configuration management in wireless communications, etc.). Information may be passed on to other components of the device605. The receiver610may be an example of aspects of the transceiver820or920as described with reference toFIGS.8and9. The receiver610may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

The communications manager615may be an example of aspects of the communications manager515as described herein. The communications manager615may include a resource configuration manager620, a resource selection manager625, and a relay communications manager630. The communications manager615may be an example of aspects of the communications manager810or910as described herein.

In some cases, the resource configuration manager620may operate in a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may identify a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node. The resource selection manager625may select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. The relay communications manager630may communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

In some cases, the resource configuration manager620may operate in a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may configure a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes. The relay communications manager630may provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

Transmitter635may transmit signals generated by other components of the device605. In some examples, the transmitter635may be collocated with a receiver610in a transceiver module. For example, the transmitter635may be an example of aspects of the transceiver820or920as described with reference toFIGS.8and9. The transmitter635may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

FIG.7shows a block diagram700of a communications manager705that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The communications manager705may be an example of aspects of a communications manager515, a communications manager615, or a communications manager810described herein. The communications manager705may include a resource configuration manager710, a resource selection manager715, a relay communications manager720, a configuration reporting manager725, a resource configuration mapping component730, and a switching criteria manager735. Each of these modules may communicate, directly or indirectly, with one another (e.g., via one or more buses).

The resource configuration manager710may operate in a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may identify a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node. In some examples, the resource configuration manager710may receive, from a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network, configuration information that indicates each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations that are available to the first node for communications with one or more parent nodes or child nodes. In some examples, the resource configuration manager710may receive, from the central entity, an initial configuration that indicates the first preconfigured resource allocation is to be used for initial communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. In some cases, the first preconfigured resource allocation is a default resource allocation that is provided in the configuration information. The resource selection manager715may select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. In some examples, the resource selection manager715may receive, from one or more of the parent node or the child node, an indication of an updated resource allocation at the parent node or the child node, and where the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation is based on the updated resource allocation.

In some examples, the resource configuration manager710may operate in a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may configure a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes. In some examples, the resource selection manager715may provide an initial configuration to the first node that indicates a first preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations is to be used for initial communications with one or more of the other nodes. In some examples, the resource selection manager715may determine that a second preconfigured resource allocation is to be used for the further communications with one or more of the other nodes. In some examples, the resource selection manager715may provide an indication to the first node to change to the second preconfigured resource allocation. In some examples, the resource selection manager715may receive an indication of acknowledgment from the first node. In some examples, the resource selection manager715may receive an indication from the first node that a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations is to be used for further communications with one or more of the other nodes.

In some cases, the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation is based on receiving, from a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network, an indication to change to the second preconfigured resource allocation. In some cases, the indication is received in a downlink control information transmission, an uplink control information transmission, in a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or any combinations thereof. In some cases, the indication of the updated resource allocation further indicates that the first node is to select the second preconfigured resource allocation.

In some cases, the first node is a first parent node and the indication of the updated resource allocation is received from a first child node, and where the indication of the updated resource allocation is a request from the first child node to use the updated resource allocation. In some cases, the first node transmits a response to the first child node that the request is granted and that indicates the second preconfigured resource allocation of the first node. In some cases, the first preconfigured resource allocation is a default resource allocation that is provided in configuration information that is provided to the first node.

The relay communications manager720may communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation. In some examples, the relay communications manager720may provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

The configuration reporting manager725may transmit an indication that the second preconfigured resource allocation has been selected for communications of the first node to one or more of the parent node, the child node, or a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network.

The resource configuration mapping component730may provide mapping for certain configurations. In some cases, the first node is a first child node and the indication of the updated resource allocation is received from a first parent node, and where the second preconfigured resource allocation is selected based on a mapping of a subset of the set of preconfigured resource allocations that are compatible with the updated resource allocation of the first parent node. In some cases, the mapping of the subset of the set of preconfigured resource allocations that are compatible with the updated resource allocation of the first parent node is explicitly indicated in configuration information that configures the set of preconfigured resource allocations or determined based on one or more mapping rules.

The switching criteria manager735may determine that one or more preconfigured criteria for switching preconfigured resource allocations have been met, and where the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation is based on the one or more preconfigured criteria. In some cases, the one or more preconfigured criteria are received in configuration information from a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network.

In some cases, the one or more preconfigured criteria are based on a beam that is used for communications between the first node and one or more of the parent node or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first beam and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second beam. In some cases, the first preconfigured resource allocation and the second preconfigured resource allocation are associated with different multiplexing parameters of the associated first beam and second beam. In some cases, the one or more preconfigured criteria are based on a power saving mode that is used for communications between the first node and one or more of the parent node or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first power saving mode and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second power saving mode. In some cases, the one or more preconfigured criteria are based on a topological state of one or more of the first node, the parent node, or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first topological state and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second topological state. In some cases, the one or more preconfigured criteria are based on a quality of service associated with communications between the first node and one or more of the parent node or the child node, and where the first preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a first quality of service and the second preconfigured resource allocation is associated with a second quality of service.

FIG.8shows a diagram of a system800including a device805that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device805may be an example of or include the components of device505, device605, or a UE115as described herein. The device805may include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, including a communications manager810, a transceiver820, an antenna825, memory830, a processor840, and an I/O controller850. These components may be in electronic communication via one or more buses (e.g., bus855).

In some cases, the communications manager810may operate in a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may identify a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

In some cases, the communications manager810may operate in a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may configure a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

The memory830may include RAM, ROM, or a combination thereof. The memory830may store computer-readable code835including instructions that, when executed by a processor (e.g., the processor840) cause the device to perform various functions described herein. In some cases, the memory830may contain, among other things, a BIOS which may control basic hardware or software operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices.

The I/O controller850may manage input and output signals for the device805. The I/O controller850may also manage peripherals not integrated into the device805. In some cases, the I/O controller850may represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral. In some cases, the I/O controller850may utilize an operating system such as iOS®, ANDROID®, MS-DOS®, MS-WINDOWS®, OS/2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system. In other cases, the I/O controller850may represent or interact with a modem, a keyboard, a mouse, a touchscreen, or a similar device. In some cases, the I/O controller850may be implemented as part of a processor. In some cases, a user may interact with the device805via the I/O controller850or via hardware components controlled by the I/O controller850.

FIG.9shows a diagram of a system900including a device905that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The device905may be an example of or include the components of device505, device605, or a base station105as described herein. The device905may include components for bi-directional voice and data communications including components for transmitting and receiving communications, including a communications manager910, a network communications manager915, a transceiver920, an antenna925, memory930, a processor940, and an inter-station communications manager945. These components may be in electronic communication via one or more buses (e.g., bus955).

In some cases, the communications manager910may operate in a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may identify a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node, select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node, and communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation.

In some cases, the communications manager910may operate in a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, and may configure a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes and provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations.

Network communications manager915may manage communications with the core network (e.g., via one or more wired backhaul links). For example, the network communications manager915may manage the transfer of data communications for client devices, such as one or more UEs115.

The memory930may include RAM, ROM, or a combination thereof. The memory930may store computer-readable code935including instructions that, when executed by a processor (e.g., the processor940) cause the device to perform various functions described herein. In some cases, the memory930may contain, among other things, a BIOS which may control basic hardware or software operation such as the interaction with peripheral components or devices.

FIG.10shows a flowchart illustrating a method1000that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method1000may be implemented by a multi-hop network node (e.g., a central entity or relay node) or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method1000may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9. In some examples, a multi-hop network node may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the multi-hop network node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a multi-hop network node may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At1005, the multi-hop network node may identify, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node. The operations of1005may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1005may be performed by a resource configuration manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1010, the multi-hop network node may select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. The operations of1010may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1010may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1015, the multi-hop network node may communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation. The operations of1015may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1015may be performed by a relay communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

FIG.11shows a flowchart illustrating a method1100that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method1100may be implemented by a multi-hop network node (e.g., a central entity or relay node) or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method1100may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9. In some examples, a multi-hop network node may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the multi-hop network node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a multi-hop network node may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At1105, the multi-hop network node may identify, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node. The operations of1105may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1105may be performed by a resource configuration manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1110, the multi-hop network node may select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. The operations of1110may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1110may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1115, the multi-hop network node may communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation. The operations of1115may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1115may be performed by a relay communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1120, the multi-hop network node may transmit an indication that the second preconfigured resource allocation has been selected for communications of the first node to one or more of the parent node, the child node, or a central entity of the multiple-hop wireless network. The operations of1120may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1120may be performed by a configuration reporting manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

FIG.12shows a flowchart illustrating a method1200that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method1200may be implemented by a multi-hop network node (e.g., a central entity or relay node) or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method1200may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9. In some examples, a multi-hop network node may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the multi-hop network node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a multi-hop network node may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At1205, the multi-hop network node may identify, at a first node of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first preconfigured resource allocation of a set of preconfigured resource allocations of wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of a parent node or a child node. The operations of1205may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1205may be performed by a resource configuration manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1210, the multi-hop network node may select, after using the first preconfigured resource allocation, a second preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations for communications with one or more of the parent node or the child node. The operations of1210may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1210may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1215, the multi-hop network node may communicate with one or more of the parent node or the child node using the second preconfigured resource allocation. The operations of1215may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1215may be performed by a relay communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1220, the multi-hop network node may determine that one or more preconfigured criteria for switching preconfigured resource allocations have been met, and where the selecting the second preconfigured resource allocation is based on the one or more preconfigured criteria. The operations of1220may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1220may be performed by a switching criteria manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

FIG.13shows a flowchart illustrating a method1300that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method1300may be implemented by a multi-hop network node (e.g., a central entity or relay node) or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method1300may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9. In some examples, a multi-hop network node may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the multi-hop network node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a multi-hop network node may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At1305, the multi-hop network node may configure, by a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes. The operations of1305may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1305may be performed by a resource configuration manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1310, the multi-hop network node may provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations. The operations of1310may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1310may be performed by a relay communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

Optionally, at1315, the multi-hop network node may provide an initial configuration to the first node that indicates a first preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations is to be used for initial communications with one or more of the other nodes. The operations of1315may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1315may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

FIG.14shows a flowchart illustrating a method1400that supports resource configuration management in wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of method1400may be implemented by a multi-hop network node (e.g., a central entity or relay node) or its components as described herein. For example, the operations of method1400may be performed by a communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9. In some examples, a multi-hop network node may execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the multi-hop network node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, a multi-hop network node may perform aspects of the functions described below using special-purpose hardware.

At1405, the multi-hop network node may configure, by a central entity of a multiple-hop wireless network, a first node of the multiple-hop wireless network with a set of preconfigured resource allocations, where each of the set of preconfigured resource allocations indicates different wireless resources that are available for communications between the first node and one or more of other nodes. The operations of1405may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1405may be performed by a resource configuration manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1410, the multi-hop network node may provide the first node with the set of preconfigured resource allocations. The operations of1410may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1410may be performed by a relay communications manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1415, the multi-hop network node may provide an initial configuration to the first node that indicates a first preconfigured resource allocation of the set of preconfigured resource allocations is to be used for initial communications with one or more of the other nodes. The operations of1415may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1415may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1420, the multi-hop network node may determine that a second preconfigured resource allocation is to be used for the further communications with one or more of the other nodes. The operations of1420may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1420may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

At1425, the multi-hop network node may provide an indication to the first node to change to the second preconfigured resource allocation. The operations of1425may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1425may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.

Optionally, at1430, the multi-hop network node may receive an indication of acknowledgment from the first node. The operations of1430may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, aspects of the operations of1430may be performed by a resource selection manager as described with reference toFIGS.5through9.