Method and apparatus for processing timing information

Abstract

This invention provides a method and apparatus for processing timing information. The method includes: receiving a timing service request message sent by an application function, the timing service request message being used to request a time synchronization service that meets a target timing capability; and providing the application function or a target terminal with a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability based on the timing capability supported by 5GS. In this embodiment of the invention, based on the timing service request and the timing capability supported by 5GS, it determines whether a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided, and if it can be provided, provides the application function or the target terminal with the time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, thereby achieving the purpose of providing the application with a clock synchronization service that meets the application's requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a method and apparatus for processing timing information. Background Technology

[0002] The 5G System (5GS) supports providing time synchronization services to third-party applications. Applications request information from the 5GS regarding its time synchronization capabilities, such as User Equipment (UE) identifier, User-Plane Node ID, time synchronization distribution method, and 5G clock precision. However, the 5GS cannot provide applications with time synchronization services that meet their specific needs. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method and apparatus for processing timing information to solve the problem that 5GS cannot provide clock synchronization services that meet the application requirements.

[0004] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a method for processing timing information, executed by a first communication device, comprising:

[0005] Receive timing service request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability;

[0006] Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities is provided to the application function or target terminal.

[0007] Optionally, providing a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal includes:

[0008] Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability; if it is determined that there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability, then send the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or the target terminal; or,

[0009] Determine that a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal through the second communication device;

[0010] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

[0011] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0012] The timed service request information is forwarded to the second communication device;

[0013] Based on the response information fed back by the second communication device, it is determined whether there is a clock source that can provide the target timing capability. The response information is the information fed back by the second communication device after determining whether it can provide the time synchronization service for the target timing capability based on the timing service request information.

[0014] Providing time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application functions or target terminals includes:

[0015] If it is determined that a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability is sent to the application function or the target terminal.

[0016] Optionally, determining whether a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists based on the response information fed back by the second communication device includes:

[0017] If the response information is the timing service response information, then based on the clock source that satisfies the target timing capability contained in the timing service response information, it is determined that a time synchronization service that satisfies the target timing capability can be provided.

[0018] If the response information is a timing service request failure message, it is determined that a clock source that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided.

[0019] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0020] Send the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system 5GS to the application function or target terminal; or,

[0021] If it is determined that the timing capabilities supported by 5GS have changed, the changed timing capabilities are sent to the application function or the target terminal.

[0022] Optionally, sending 5GS-supported timing capabilities to the application function includes:

[0023] Obtain timing capability request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing capability request information is used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS;

[0024] Based on the timing capability request information, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS are sent to the application function.

[0025] Optionally, obtain the timing capability request information sent by the application function, including:

[0026] The timing capability request information is obtained by using the timing synchronization service request information.

[0027] Optionally, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be obtained through the following methods:

[0028] The timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be determined by one or more of the following: the location of the master clock (GM) in 5GS, the number of network nodes, the time information distribution method, the capability of the network-side time-varying network converter (NW-TT), the capability of the device-side time-varying network converter (DS-TT), and the attribute information of the clock source.

[0029] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0030] If it is determined that there is no clock source that can provide the target timing capability, a timing service request failure message is sent to the application function or the target terminal; the timing service request failure message includes the timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0031] Optionally, the timing capability includes one or more of the following:

[0032] Clock source identifier;

[0033] Clock source type;

[0034] Synchronization accuracy;

[0035] The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies;

[0036] The coverage or service range supported by the clock source;

[0037] Number of supported terminals;

[0038] Provides the time interval for timing information;

[0039] Differences from Universal Time (UTC);

[0040] The 5GS maintains its timeliness.

[0041] Optionally, the timing capability further includes: a spatial validity condition, wherein the spatial validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region.

[0042] Optionally, the specific area may include one or more of the following: Area of ​​Interest (AOI); Designated Tracking Area (TA); Designated Geographic Area; and Designated Cell.

[0043] Optionally, based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities is provided to the target terminal, including:

[0044] Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

[0045] Optionally, based on spatial availability conditions and the acquired location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal, including:

[0046] If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0047] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0048] If, based on spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not located within a specific area, then the time synchronization service will not be activated.

[0049] Alternatively, if it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition based on the time validity condition, a waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered.

[0050] The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

[0051] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0052] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0053] If, based on the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal; or...

[0054] If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the spatial validity condition according to the notification instruction, and the current time is determined to be within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition according to the time validity condition, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0055] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0056] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0057] If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

[0058] This invention also provides a method for processing timing information, executed by an application function, including:

[0059] Send a timed service request message, the timed service request message being used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timed capability;

[0060] Obtain the timing service response information fed back by the first communication device or the second communication device based on the timing service request information;

[0061] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0062] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0063] Send timing capability request information, the timing capability request information being used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS;

[0064] Obtain the timing capabilities supported by 5GS sent by the first communication device according to the timing capability request information.

[0065] Optionally, the sending of timing capability request information includes:

[0066] Send a timed synchronization service request message carrying a timed capability request message.

[0067] This invention also provides a method for processing timing information, executed by a second communication device, comprising:

[0068] Receive timing service request information sent by the first communication device, wherein the timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability;

[0069] Based on the timing service request information, determine the clock source that can provide the target timing capability;

[0070] Send timing service response information to the first communication device, wherein the timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0071] This invention also provides a timing information processing device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor;

[0072] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0073] The transceiver receives timing service request information sent by the application function. The timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0074] Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities is provided to the application function or target terminal.

[0075] Optionally, the processor performs the step of providing a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal, including:

[0076] Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists; if a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, then transmit the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal via a transceiver; or,

[0077] Determine whether a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device via a transceiver, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal via the second communication device;

[0078] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

[0079] Optionally, the timing capability includes: a spatial validity condition, wherein the spatial validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region.

[0080] Optionally, the processor performs time synchronization service to the target terminal based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, including:

[0081] Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

[0082] Optionally, the processor performs time synchronization service to the target terminal based on spatial validity conditions and the acquired location of the target terminal, providing the time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, including:

[0083] If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and its location, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0084] Optionally, the processor also performs:

[0085] If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated.

[0086] Alternatively, if it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition based on the time validity condition, a waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered.

[0087] The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

[0088] Optionally, the processor also performs:

[0089] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0090] If, based on the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal; or...

[0091] If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the spatial validity condition according to the notification instruction, and the current time is determined to be within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition according to the time validity condition, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0092] Optionally, the processor also performs:

[0093] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0094] If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

[0095] This invention also provides a timing information processing device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor;

[0096] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0097] The transceiver is controlled to send a timing service request message, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0098] The transceiver obtains the timing service response information fed back by the first or second communication device based on the timing service request information;

[0099] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0100] This invention also provides a timing information processing device, including a memory, a transceiver, and a processor;

[0101] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0102] The transceiver is controlled to receive timing service request information sent by the first communication device, wherein the timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability;

[0103] Based on the timing service request information, determine the clock source that can provide the target timing capability;

[0104] The transceiver is controlled to send timing service response information to the first communication device, wherein the timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0105] This invention also provides a timing information processing device, comprising:

[0106] The first receiving unit is used to receive timing service request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0107] The first processing unit is used to provide time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application function or target terminal based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0108] This invention also provides a timing information processing device, comprising:

[0109] The first sending unit is used to send timing service request information, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0110] The first acquisition unit is used to acquire the timing service response information fed back by the first communication device or the second communication device according to the timing service request information;

[0111] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0112] This invention also provides a timing information processing device, comprising:

[0113] The second receiving unit is used to receive timing service request information sent by the first communication device, wherein the timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability;

[0114] The second processing unit is used to determine, based on the timing service request information, a clock source that can provide the target timing capability;

[0115] The second sending unit is used to send timing service response information to the first communication device, wherein the timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0116] This invention also provides a processor-readable storage medium storing program instructions for causing the processor to perform the steps of the timing information processing method described above.

[0117] This invention also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing program instructions for causing the processor to perform the steps of the timing information processing method described above.

[0118] The above-described technical solution of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects:

[0119] In this embodiment of the invention, receiving a timing service request information sent by an application function can determine whether a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided based on the timing service request and the timing capability supported by 5GS. If a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided, the application function or the target terminal can be provided with a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, thereby achieving the purpose of providing the application with a clock synchronization service that meets the application's requirements. Attached Figure Description

[0120] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the structure of a network system to which embodiments of the present invention can be applied.

[0121] Figure 2 One of the flowcharts illustrating a method for processing timing information according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0122] Figure 3 One of the interactive schematic diagrams illustrating the timing information processing method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0123] Figure 4 The second interactive schematic diagram illustrates the timing information processing method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0124] Figure 5 A second flowchart illustrating the timing information processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0125] Figure 6 The third flowchart illustrates the timing information processing method according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0126] Figure 7 One of the structural block diagrams of a timing information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0127] Figure 8 A second structural block diagram illustrating a timing information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0128] Figure 9 One of the schematic diagrams of a timing information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0129] Figure 10 A second schematic diagram of a module for processing timing information according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0130] Figure 11 The third schematic diagram shows the module of the timing information processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0131] To make the technical problems, technical solutions and advantages of the present invention clearer, a detailed description will be given below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0132] The technical solutions provided in this invention are applicable to a variety of systems, especially 5G systems. For example, applicable systems may include Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Time Division Synchronous Code Division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Long Term Evolution (LTE) systems (including TD-LTE and FDD-LTE), Long Term Evolution Advanced (LTE-A), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), and 5G New Radio (NR). All of these systems include terminal equipment and network equipment. The systems may also include a core network component, such as Evolved Packet System (EPS) and 5G systems (5GS / 5GC).

[0133] Figure 1This diagram illustrates a block diagram of a wireless communication system applicable to embodiments of this application. The wireless communication system includes a terminal 11 and a network device 12. The terminal 11 can also be referred to as a terminal device or user equipment (UE). The terminal 11 can be a mobile phone, tablet computer, laptop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), handheld computer, netbook, ultra-mobile personal computer (UMPC), mobile internet device (MID), wearable device, vehicle-mounted device (VUE), pedestrian terminal (PUE), or other terminal-side devices. Wearable devices include wristbands, headphones, glasses, etc. It should be noted that this application does not limit the specific type of terminal 11. Network device 12 can be a base station or a core network. The base station can be referred to as a node B, evolved node B, access point, base transceiver station (BTS), radio base station, radio transceiver, basic service set (BSS), extended service set (ESS), B node, evolved B node (eNB), home B node, home evolved B node, WLAN access point, WiFi node, transmitting and receiving point (TRP), or any other suitable term in the field, as long as the same technical effect is achieved. The base station is not limited to specific technical terms. It should be noted that in this application embodiment, only the base station in the NR system is used as an example, but the specific type of base station is not limited.

[0134] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0135] like Figure 2 As shown, this embodiment of the invention provides a method for processing timing information, executed by a first communication device, the method comprising:

[0136] Step 201: Receive the timing service request information sent by the application function. The timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0137] The aforementioned first communication device can specifically be a Time Sensitive Communication and Time Synchronization function (TSCTSF). This TSCTSF includes Time Sensitive Communication (TSC) and time synchronization logic, and can control the device-side TSN Translator (DS-TT(s)) and the network-side TSN Translator (NW-TT(s)) to form a general Precise Time Protocol (gPTP) instance.

[0138] The aforementioned core network element TSCTSF is a network element introduced in the 5G system. The 5G system supports TSC and time synchronization services even when TSN is not deployed.

[0139] The 5G system mainly includes the following network functions:

[0140] Centralized Network Configuration (CNC): Can be applied to network devices (bridges);

[0141] Centralized User Configuration (CUC): Can be applied to user equipment (End Station);

[0142] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF): Used for registration, connection management, etc.

[0143] User Plane Function (UPF): Used for external PDU session nodes that interconnect with data networks, including message routing and forwarding;

[0144] Session Management Function (SMF): Used for session establishment and deletion, user plane selection and control, UE IP allocation, etc.

[0145] Application Function (AF): Used to interact with the 3GPP core network to provide services. Depending on the operator's deployment, trusted AFs can interact directly with relevant NFs, while untrusted AFs cannot interact directly with NFs and should use a publicly available framework via NEF. TSN AFs represent the interaction between the TSN domain (including CUC / CNC) and the 5G system control plane.

[0146] Policy Control Function (PCF): Used to support a unified policy framework to manage network behavior and provide policy rules for enforcement by the control plane (NF).

[0147] Unified Data Management (UDM): Used to store UE information, such as subscription information and information about established PDU sessions.

[0148] Network Exposure Function (NEF): Functions that provide secure exposure of services and capabilities offered by 3GPP networks to external networks.

[0149] Unified Data Repository (UDR): Used for storing contract data and for the UDM FE to retrieve contract data. It also stores policy information and allows the PCF to retrieve policy information.

[0150] Step 202: Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, provide the application function or target terminal with a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities.

[0151] In this embodiment of the invention, receiving a timing service request information sent by an application function can determine whether a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided based on the timing service request and the timing capability supported by 5GS. If a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided, the application function or the target terminal can be provided with a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, thereby achieving the purpose of providing the application with a clock synchronization service that meets the application's requirements.

[0152] Optionally, the timing capability in the embodiments of the present invention includes one or more of the following:

[0153] Clock source identifier;

[0154] Clock source type;

[0155] Synchronization accuracy;

[0156] The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies, wherein the terminal to which the timing capability applies includes one or a group of terminals.

[0157] The coverage or service range supported by the clock source;

[0158] Number of supported terminals;

[0159] Provides the time interval for timing information;

[0160] Differences from Universal Time (UTC);

[0161] The 5G system's 5GS timekeeping capability refers to the time period during which the 5G system can still achieve the required synchronization accuracy when the current clock source is unavailable. This timekeeping capability is related to factors such as the timekeeping duration and the availability of clock sources.

[0162] Optionally, in the method of this embodiment of the invention, the timing capability further includes: a spatial validity condition, wherein the spatial validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid in a specific region.

[0163] Optionally, in the method of this embodiment of the invention, the specific area includes one or more of the following: a region of interest (AOI); a designated tracking area (TA); a designated geographical area; and a designated cell.

[0164] Optionally, the method in this embodiment of the invention further includes:

[0165] Send the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system 5GS to the application function or target terminal; or,

[0166] If it is determined that the timing capabilities supported by 5GS have changed, the changed timing capabilities are sent to the application function or the target terminal.

[0167] Optionally, sending the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system 5GS to the application function or target terminal includes:

[0168] Obtain timing capability request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing capability request information is used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS;

[0169] Based on the timing capability request information, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS are sent to the application function.

[0170] Optionally, obtain the timing capability request information sent by the application function, including:

[0171] The timing capability request information is obtained by using the timing synchronization service request information.

[0172] Application functions can send timing capability request information via Nnef_Time Synchronization_Caps Subscribe (the application function sends a time synchronization subscription request (time synchronization service request information) to NEF, which then forwards the request to TSCTSF) or via Ntsctsf_Time Synchronization_Caps Subscribe to TSCTSF. Of course, the aforementioned timing capability request information can also be a new request created by the application function.

[0173] Optionally, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be obtained through the following methods:

[0174] The timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be determined by one or more of the following: the location of the master clock (GM) in 5GS, the number of network nodes, the time information distribution method, the capability of the network-side time-varying network converter (NW-TT), the capability of the device-side time-varying network converter (DS-TT), and the attribute information of the clock source.

[0175] For example, the 5GS end-to-end clock synchronization path consists of three parts: network, terminal, and uu interface. If the GM is located in the UPF, the synchronization accuracy needs to take into account the sum of the synchronization errors of the above three parts.

[0176] For example, information such as the coverage or service range supported by the clock source, the number of supported terminals, the time interval for providing timing information, and the difference from Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) can be pre-configured as attribute information of the clock source in the first communication device, or stored in the UDR or other network elements.

[0177] Optionally, providing a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal includes:

[0178] Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability; if it is determined that there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability, then send the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or the target terminal; or,

[0179] Determine that a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal through the second communication device;

[0180] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

[0181] Optionally, the method in this application embodiment provides a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities to the target terminal based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, including:

[0182] Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

[0183] It should be noted that the methods for "obtaining the location of the target terminal" here include, but are not limited to: after receiving the location service request information, the first communication device can send a target terminal location information acquisition request to the AMF based on the target terminal information (e.g., target terminal identifier) ​​contained in the location service request information, so as to obtain the location of the target terminal from the AMF.

[0184] In another embodiment of this application, based on spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal, including:

[0185] If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and its location, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0186] In another embodiment of this application, the method further includes:

[0187] If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated.

[0188] Alternatively, if it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition based on the time validity condition, a waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered.

[0189] The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

[0190] For example: if the TSCTSF determines that the current UE is in an AoI based on the spatial validity condition and the obtained target terminal location, then the TSCTSF will activate the time synchronization service; if the current UE is not in an AoI, then the TSCTSF will not activate the time synchronization service. Alternatively, based on the valid time period provided by the Temporal Validity Condition parameter (i.e., the time validity condition), the TSCTSF will determine whether the current time is within the valid time period. If it is within the valid time period, then the TSCTSF will remain in a waiting state during this valid time period.

[0191] In another embodiment of this application, after triggering the wait-to-activate time synchronization service state, the method further includes:

[0192] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0193] If, based on the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal; or...

[0194] If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the spatial validity condition according to the notification instruction, and the current time is determined to be within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition according to the time validity condition, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0195] For example: TSCTSF receives an AMF notification indicating a change in UE location. Assuming the notification determines the UE's location is within an Area of ​​Interest (AoI) (e.g., the RAN determines the UE's presence in Area of ​​Interest has changed, and the notification indication is "IN"), then TSCTSF determines to activate the time synchronization service; or...

[0196] When TSCTSF receives an AMF notification indicating a change in UE location, assuming the notification determines that the UE is in an AoI and, based on the Temporal Validity Condition parameter, determines that the current time is still within a valid time period, TSCTSF will activate the time synchronization service.

[0197] In another embodiment of this application, after providing time synchronization service to the target terminal, the method further includes:

[0198] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0199] If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

[0200] For example, when the TSCTSF receives an AMF notification indicating a change in UE location, assuming the notification determines that the UE has left the AoI (e.g., the RAN determines that the UE's presence in Area of ​​Interest has changed, and the notification indicates "OUT"), the TSCTSF processes the request according to the existing Ntsctsf_TimeSynchronization_ConfigDelete request, that is, deactivating the time synchronization service and disabling PTP instances in DS-TT and NW-TT.

[0201] Optionally, the method in this application embodiment further includes:

[0202] The timed service request information is forwarded to the second communication device;

[0203] Based on the response information fed back by the second communication device, it is determined whether there is a clock source that can provide the target timing capability. The response information is the information fed back by the second communication device after determining whether it can provide the time synchronization service for the target timing capability based on the timing service request information.

[0204] Providing time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application functions or target terminals includes:

[0205] If it is determined that a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability is sent to the application function or the target terminal.

[0206] Optionally, determining whether a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists based on the response information fed back by the second communication device includes:

[0207] If the response information is the timing service response information, then based on the clock source that satisfies the target timing capability contained in the timing service response information, it is determined that a time synchronization service that satisfies the target timing capability can be provided.

[0208] If the response information is a timing service request failure message, it is determined that a clock source that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided.

[0209] Optionally, in this embodiment of the invention, sending the timing service request information or the timing capability information of the clock source to the second communication device includes:

[0210] If the master clock GM in the 5GS is located in the radio access network, the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source will be sent to the radio access network.

[0211] If the master clock GM is located in UPF or NW-TT, then the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source is sent to UPF or NW-TT;

[0212] If the master clock GM is located in the terminal or DS-TT, the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source will be sent to the terminal or DS-TT.

[0213] Further, sending the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the wireless access network includes:

[0214] The timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source is sent to the Policy Control Function (PCF) through the Unified Database (UDR), and the PCF then sends the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the Radio Access Network (RAN) through the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0215] Specifically, the TSCTSF stores the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source in the UDR or updates the corresponding information in the UDR. If the PCF subscribes to changes in time synchronization data from the UDR, the UDR calls Nudr_DM_Notify to notify the PCF of the change. Specifically, the PCF updates the AM policy and notifies the AMF by calling Npcf_AMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify. The AMF then sends the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the RAN via N2message.

[0216] Further, sending the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the UPF or NW-TT includes:

[0217] The timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source is sent to the Session Management Function (SMF), which then sends the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the UPF or NW-TT.

[0218] Furthermore, sending the timing service request information or the timing capability information of the clock source to the SMF includes:

[0219] Construct a Port Management Information Container (PMIC) or a User Plane Node Management Information Container (UMIC), wherein the PMIC contains the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source, and the UMIC contains the timing service request information or the timing capability information of the clock source.

[0220] The PMIC or UMIC is sent to the PCF via the UDR, and the PCF then sends the PMIC or UMIC to the SMF.

[0221] In this embodiment of the invention, the TSCTSF constructs a PMIC or UMIC to activate the time synchronization service to the UPF or NW-TT. First, the TSCTSF sends the UMIC / PMIC, containing timing service request information or the timing capabilities of the clock source, to the SMF via Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify. Specifically, the TSCTSF stores the timing service request information or the timing capabilities of the clock source in the UDR. If the PCF subscribes to changes in time synchronization data from the UDR, the UDR calls Nudr_DM_Notify to notify the PCF of the change. The PCF updates the SM policy and calls Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify to request that the PMIC or UMIC be notified to the SMF. The SMF sends the PMIC / UMIC to the UPF / NW-TT via an N4 Session Modification Request.

[0222] Further, sending the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the terminal or DS-TT includes:

[0223] The timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source is sent to the AMF through the SMF, and the AMF then sends the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the terminal or DS-TT through the wireless access network.

[0224] Furthermore, sending the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the AMF via the SMF includes:

[0225] Construct a PMIC, which includes the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source;

[0226] The PMIC is sent to the AMF via the SMF.

[0227] In this embodiment of the invention, the TSCTSF constructs a PMIC to activate the time synchronization service for the UE / DS-TT. Specifically, the TSCTSF sends the PMIC containing timing service request information or timing capabilities of the clock source to the SMF via Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify. The SMF sends the PMIC to the AMF via the PDU Session Modification procedure (calling the Namf_Communication_N1N2MessageTransfer operation), and sends it to the RAN via the N2 message. The RAN then sends the PMIC to the DS-TT / UE via AN-specific signaling.

[0228] Optionally, in this embodiment of the invention, after receiving the timed service request information sent by the application function, the method further includes:

[0229] If it is determined that there is no clock source that can provide the target timing capability, a timing service request failure message is sent to the application function or the target terminal; the timing service request failure message includes the timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0230] If a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided, the timing capability supported by 5GS is sent to the application function so that the application function can subscribe to the corresponding time synchronization service based on the timing capability supported by 5GS.

[0231] The following describes the process of obtaining the timing capabilities supported by 5GS for application functions, with reference to Example 1.

[0232] Example 1:

[0233] like Figure 3 As shown, the process includes:

[0234] Step 301: The application sends a timing capability request message.

[0235] Specifically, the application function sends an Nnef_Time Synchronization_Caps Subscribe request to NEF or an Ntsctsf_Time Synchronization_Caps Subscribe request to TSCTSF, or the application function creates new timing capability request information. This timing capability request information can also be described as elastic timing capability request information.

[0236] The above request may include indication parameters to indicate the acquisition of timing capabilities. In this embodiment of the invention, timing capabilities may also be described as flexible timing capabilities.

[0237] Step 302: The TSCTSF stores the timing capability request information in the UDR or updates the timing capability request information in the UDR. If the PCF has subscribed to changes in time synchronization data from the UDR, the UDR notifies the PCF of the change. The TSCTSF sends an Npcf_PolicyAuthorization_Create request (PCF management authorization policy creation request) to the PCF. It also determines the capabilities of the DS-TT and NW-TT based on the capability information received from the DS-TT(s) and NW-TT.

[0238] Step 303: Based on the location of the 5G GM, the number of network nodes, the time information distribution method, etc., TSCTSF determines the synchronization accuracy, and determines the 5GS's timekeeping holdover capability, the coverage / service range supported by the clock source, the number of UEs supported, the time interval for providing timing information, the difference from UTC, the clock source type, etc. through the information of the clock source.

[0239] This step is used to determine the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system.

[0240] Step 304: TSCTSF sends time synchronization capability notification information to the application function. This time synchronization capability communication information includes the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system.

[0241] The time synchronization capability notification message contains the information determined in step 303.

[0242] Here, TSCTSF can directly send the aforementioned time synchronization capability notification information to the application function, or send it to the application function via NEF.

[0243] Step 305: When the timing capability changes, TSCTSF updates the timing capability according to the new clock source information and sends the updated timing capability to the application function.

[0244] Here, the updated timing capability is sent to the application function in the same way as in step 304 above, and will not be repeated here.

[0245] The process of subscribing to the time synchronization service of timing capability in this application embodiment is described below with reference to Embodiment 2.

[0246] like Figure 4 As shown, the process includes:

[0247] Step 401: The application function sends a timed service request message, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timed capability.

[0248] Specifically, the application function can send timed service request information directly to TSCTSF, or send timed service request information to TSCTSF through NEF.

[0249] Step 402: If the 5G GM is located on the RAN side, the TSCTSF determines a new clock source based on the timing service request information or the timing capabilities supported by the 5GS, and notifies the RAN of the new clock source information, or sends the timing service request information to the RAN, and the RAN selects a new clock source.

[0250] The aforementioned new clock source refers to a clock source capable of providing time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities. Specifically, the information about this new clock source can be defined as its timing capability information.

[0251] Specifically, the TSCTSF stores the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source in the UDR or updates the corresponding information in the UDR. If the PCF subscribes to changes in time synchronization data from the UDR, the UDR calls Nudr_DM_Notify to notify the PCF of the change. Specifically, the PCF updates the AM policy and notifies the AMF by calling Npcf_AMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify. The AMF then sends the timing service request information or the timing capability of the clock source to the RAN via N2message.

[0252] Step 403: If the 5G GM is located on the UPF / NW-TT side, the TSCTSF determines a new clock source based on the timing service request information or the timing capabilities supported by the 5GS, and notifies the UPF / NW-TT of the new clock source information. Alternatively, the timing service request information is sent to the UPF / NW-TT, which then selects a new clock source.

[0253] Specifically, the TSCTSF will construct a PMIC or UMIC to activate the time synchronization service to the UPF or NW-TT. First, the TSCTSF sends the UMIC / PMIC, containing timing service request information or the timing capabilities of the clock source, to the SMF via Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify. Specifically, the TSCTSF stores the timing service request information or the timing capabilities of the clock source in the UDR. If the PCF subscribes to changes in time synchronization data from the UDR, the UDR calls Nudr_DM_Notify to notify the PCF of the change. The PCF updates the SM policy and calls Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify to request that the PMIC or UMIC be notified to the SMF. The SMF then sends the PMIC / UMIC to the UPF / NW-TT via an N4 Session Modification Request.

[0254] Step 404: If the 5G GM is located on the UE / DS-TT side, the TSCTSF determines a new clock source based on the timing service request information or the timing capabilities supported by the 5GS, and notifies the UE / DS-TT of the new clock source information. Alternatively, the timing service request information is sent to the UE / DS-TT, which then selects a new clock source.

[0255] Specifically, the TSCTSF will construct the PMIC to activate the time synchronization service for the UE / DS-TT. Specifically, the TSCTSF sends the PMIC, containing timing service request information or timing capabilities of the clock source, to the SMF via Npcf_SMPolicyControl_UpdateNotify. The SMF sends it to the AMF via the PDU Session Modification procedure (calling the Namf_Communication_N1N2MessageTransfer operation), and then to the RAN via the N2 message. The RAN then sends the PMIC to the DS-TT / UE via AN-specific signaling.

[0256] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of the present invention, after the UPF / NW-TT, UE / DS-TT or RAN determines or receives new clock source information, it will synchronize to the new clock source.

[0257] Step 405: TSCTSF sends a timed service response message to the application function.

[0258] The timing service response information may include the timing capabilities of the aforementioned new clock source. This timing service response information is used to indicate the ability to provide time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities.

[0259] Optionally, if a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided, a timing service request failure message is returned.

[0260] Optionally, the timing service request failure information includes the timing capabilities that 5GS can support.

[0261] In this embodiment of the invention, after receiving the timing service request information sent by the application function, it can determine whether a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided based on the timing service request and the timing capability supported by 5GS. If a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided, the time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided to the application function or the target terminal, thereby achieving the purpose of providing the application with a clock synchronization service that meets the application requirements.

[0262] like Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a method for processing timing information, executed by an application function, the method comprising:

[0263] Step 501: Send a timed service request message, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timed capability.

[0264] In this step, the application function can send a timed service request message directly to TSCTSF, or send a timed service request message to TSCTSF through NEF.

[0265] Step 502: Obtain the timing service response information fed back by the first communication device or the second communication device based on the timing service request information;

[0266] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0267] In this embodiment of the invention, the timing capability includes one or more of the following:

[0268] Clock source identifier;

[0269] Clock source type;

[0270] Synchronization accuracy;

[0271] The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies;

[0272] The coverage or service range supported by the clock source;

[0273] Number of supported terminals;

[0274] Provides the time interval for timing information;

[0275] Differences from Universal Time (UTC);

[0276] The 5GS 5G system's timekeeping capability.

[0277] In this embodiment of the invention, the application function sends a timing service request to the first communication device. The first or second communication device can determine whether it can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability based on the timing service request and the timing capability supported by 5GS. If it can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, it provides the application function or the target terminal with the time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, thereby achieving the purpose of providing the application with a clock synchronization service that meets the application's requirements.

[0278] In addition, in this embodiment of the invention, if the first communication device (TSCTSF) can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, the aforementioned timing service response information is sent to the application function, carrying the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the time synchronization service. If the first communication device cannot provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, a timing service request failure message is sent, carrying the timing capability supported by 5GS in the timing service request failure message.

[0279] Optionally, before sending the timed service request information, the following may also be included:

[0280] Send timing capability request information, the timing capability request information being used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS;

[0281] Obtain the timing capabilities supported by 5GS sent by the first communication device according to the timing capability request information.

[0282] Optionally, the sending of timing capability request information includes:

[0283] Send a timed synchronization service request message carrying a timed capability request message.

[0284] In this embodiment of the invention, the application function sends timing capability request information via Nnef_Time Synchronization_Caps Subscribe (the application function sends a time synchronization subscription request (i.e., a timed synchronization service request information) to NEF, which then forwards the request to TSCTSF) or via Ntsctsf_TimeSynchronization_Caps Subscribe to TSCTSF. Of course, the aforementioned timing capability request information can also be new request information created by the application function.

[0285] In this embodiment of the invention, the application function sends a timing service request to the first communication device. The first or second communication device can determine whether it can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability based on the timing service request and the timing capability supported by 5GS. If it can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, it provides the application function or the target terminal with the time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, thereby achieving the purpose of providing the application with a clock synchronization service that meets the application's requirements.

[0286] like Figure 6 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a method for processing timing information, executed by a second communication device, including:

[0287] Step 601: Receive timing service request information sent by the first communication device, wherein the timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0288] In this embodiment of the invention, the second communication device may specifically be at least one of a radio access network (RAN), a user plane function (UPF), a network-side time-varying network converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a device-side time-varying network converter (DS-TT).

[0289] The timed service request information has been described in detail in the above embodiments, and the steps are repeated here.

[0290] Optionally, the timing capability includes one or more of the following:

[0291] Clock source identifier;

[0292] Clock source type;

[0293] Synchronization accuracy;

[0294] The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies;

[0295] The coverage or service range supported by the clock source;

[0296] Number of supported terminals;

[0297] Provides the time interval for timing information;

[0298] Differences from Universal Time (UTC);

[0299] The 5GS 5G system's timekeeping capability.

[0300] Step 602: Based on the timing service request information, determine the clock source that can provide the target timing capability.

[0301] Here, based on the timing service request information, after determining a clock source that can provide the target timing capability, synchronization is performed to that clock source.

[0302] Step 603: Send timing service response information to the first communication device, wherein the timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0303] In this embodiment of the invention, a timing service request information sent by a first communication device is received. Based on the timing service request information, a clock source capable of providing time synchronization services that meet the target timing capability is determined, and the clock source is synchronized, thereby achieving the purpose of providing clock synchronization services that meet the application requirements.

[0304] like Figure 7 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a timing information processing device, including a memory 720, a transceiver 700, and a processor 710;

[0305] The memory 720 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 700 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor 710 is used to read the computer programs in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0306] The transceiver 700 receives timing service request information sent by the application function, which is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0307] Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities is provided to the application function or target terminal.

[0308] Among them, Figure 7 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors 710 (represented by processor 710) and memory 720 (represented by memory 720). The bus architecture can also link various other circuits, such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 700 can be multiple elements, including transmitters and receivers, providing units for communicating with various other devices over transmission media, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, etc. The processor 710 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, and the memory 720 can store data used by the processor 710 during operation.

[0309] The processor 710 can be a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a complex programmable logic device (CPLD). The processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0310] Optionally, the processor 710 is also configured to perform the following operations:

[0311] Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists; if a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, then transmit the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal via a transceiver; or,

[0312] Determine whether a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device via a transceiver, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal via the second communication device;

[0313] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

[0314] Optionally, the processor 710 is further configured to forward the timing service request information to the second communication device via the transceiver 700;

[0315] Based on the response information fed back by the second communication device, it is determined whether there is a clock source that can provide the target timing capability. The response information is the information fed back by the second communication device after determining whether it can provide the time synchronization service for the target timing capability based on the timing service request information.

[0316] Optionally, the processor 710 performs the step of providing a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal, including:

[0317] If it is determined that a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability is sent to the application function or target terminal via a transceiver.

[0318] Optionally, the processor 710 performs the step of determining whether there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability based on the response information fed back by the second communication device, including:

[0319] If the response information is the timing service response information, then based on the clock source that satisfies the target timing capability contained in the timing service response information, it is determined that a time synchronization service that satisfies the target timing capability can be provided.

[0320] If the response information is a timing service request failure message, it is determined that a clock source that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided.

[0321] Optionally, the transceiver is further used for:

[0322] Send the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system 5GS to the application function or target terminal; or,

[0323] If it is determined that the timing capabilities supported by 5GS have changed, the changed timing capabilities are sent to the application function or the target terminal.

[0324] Optionally, the transceiver sends timing capabilities supported by 5GS to the application function, including:

[0325] Obtain timing capability request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing capability request information is used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS;

[0326] Based on the timing capability request information, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS are sent to the application function.

[0327] Optionally, the transceiver obtains the timing capability request information through the timing synchronization service request information.

[0328] Optionally, the processor obtains the timing capabilities supported by 5GS through the following methods:

[0329] The timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be determined by one or more of the following: the location of the master clock (GM) in 5GS, the number of network nodes, the time information distribution method, the capability of the network-side time-varying network converter (NW-TT), the capability of the device-side time-varying network converter (DS-TT), and the attribute information of the clock source.

[0330] Optionally, the processor is further configured to:

[0331] If it is determined that there is no clock source that can provide the target timing capability, a timing service request failure message is sent to the application function or target terminal via the transceiver; the timing service request failure message includes the timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0332] Optionally, the timing capability includes one or more of the following:

[0333] Clock source identifier;

[0334] Clock source type;

[0335] Synchronization accuracy;

[0336] The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies;

[0337] The coverage or service range supported by the clock source;

[0338] Number of supported terminals;

[0339] Provides the time interval for timing information;

[0340] Differences from Universal Time (UTC);

[0341] The 5GS maintains its timeliness.

[0342] Optionally, the timing capability includes: a spatial validity condition, wherein the spatial validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region.

[0343] Optionally, the processor performs time synchronization service to the target terminal based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, including:

[0344] Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

[0345] Optionally, the processor performs time synchronization service to the target terminal based on spatial validity conditions and the acquired location of the target terminal, providing the time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, including:

[0346] If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and its location, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0347] Optionally, the processor also performs:

[0348] If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated.

[0349] Alternatively, if it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition based on the time validity condition, a waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered.

[0350] The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

[0351] Optionally, the processor also performs:

[0352] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0353] If, based on the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal; or...

[0354] If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the spatial validity condition according to the notification instruction, and the current time is determined to be within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition according to the time validity condition, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0355] Optionally, the processor also performs:

[0356] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0357] If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

[0358] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above embodiment of the method for processing timing information applied to the first communication device, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0359] like Figure 8 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a timing information processing device, including a memory 820, a transceiver 800, and a processor 810;

[0360] The memory 820 is used to store computer programs; the transceiver 800 is used to send and receive data under the control of the processor; the processor 810 is used to read the computer programs in the memory and perform the following operations:

[0361] The transceiver 800 is controlled to send a timing service request message, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability; and timing service response information is obtained from the first communication device or the second communication device based on the timing service request message.

[0362] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0363] Among them, Figure 8 In this context, the bus architecture can include any number of interconnected buses and bridges, specifically linking various circuits of one or more processors represented by processor 810 and memory represented by memory 820 together. The bus architecture can also link various other circuits such as peripheral devices, voltage regulators, and power management circuits, which are well known in the art and therefore will not be described further herein. The bus interface provides an interface. The transceiver 800 can be multiple components, including transmitters and receivers, providing a unit for communicating with various other devices over a transmission medium, including wireless channels, wired channels, optical fibers, etc. For different user equipment, the user interface 830 can also be an interface capable of connecting external or internal devices, including but not limited to keypads, displays, speakers, microphones, joysticks, etc.

[0364] The processor 810 is responsible for managing the bus architecture and general processing, while the memory 820 can store the data used by the processor 810 during operation.

[0365] Optionally, the processor 810 can be a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device), and the processor can also adopt a multi-core architecture.

[0366] The processor executes any of the methods described in the embodiments of this application according to the obtained executable instructions by calling a computer program stored in memory. The processor and memory may also be physically separated.

[0367] Optionally, the processor is further configured to:

[0368] The transceiver is controlled to send a timing capability request message, which is used to request the timing capability supported by 5GS; the timing capability supported by 5GS is obtained by the first communication device according to the timing capability request message.

[0369] Optionally, the transceiver is used for:

[0370] Send a timed synchronization service request message carrying a timed capability request message.

[0371] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above-mentioned method embodiment for processing timing information applied to the function, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0372] This invention also provides a timing information processing device applied to a second communication device. A schematic diagram of the device can be found here. Figure 7 This includes memory, transceiver, and processor;

[0373] A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations:

[0374] Receive timing service request information sent by the first communication device, wherein the timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability;

[0375] Based on the timing service request information, determine the clock source that can provide the target timing capability;

[0376] Send timing service response information to the first communication device, wherein the timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0377] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above embodiment of the method for processing timing information applied to the second communication device, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0378] like Figure 9 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a timing information processing device, including:

[0379] The first receiving unit 901 is used to receive timing service request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0380] The first processing unit 902 is used to provide time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application function or target terminal based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0381] Optionally, in the apparatus of this embodiment, the first processing unit is used for:

[0382] Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability; if it is determined that there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability, then send the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or the target terminal; or,

[0383] Determine that a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal through the second communication device;

[0384] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

[0385] Optionally, the apparatus of this embodiment further includes:

[0386] The forwarding unit is used to forward the timing service request information to the second communication device;

[0387] The third processing unit is used to determine whether there is a clock source that can provide the target timing capability based on the response information fed back by the second communication device, wherein the response information is the information fed back by the second communication device after determining whether it can provide the time synchronization service for the target timing capability based on the timing service request information;

[0388] The first processing unit is configured to, if it is determined that there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability, send the timing capability of the clock source that satisfies the target timing capability to the application function or the target terminal.

[0389] Optionally, the third processing unit is used for:

[0390] If the response information is the timing service response information, then based on the clock source that satisfies the target timing capability contained in the timing service response information, it is determined that a time synchronization service that satisfies the target timing capability can be provided.

[0391] If the response information is a timing service request failure message, it is determined that a clock source that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided.

[0392] Optionally, the apparatus in this application embodiment further includes:

[0393] The third transmitting unit is used to transmit the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system 5GS to the application function or the target terminal; or,

[0394] If it is determined that the timing capabilities supported by 5GS have changed, the changed timing capabilities are sent to the application function or the target terminal.

[0395] Optionally, the third transmitting unit includes:

[0396] The first acquisition subunit is used to acquire timing capability request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing capability request information is used to request the acquisition of timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0397] The first sending subunit is used to send the timing capabilities supported by 5GS to the application function according to the timing capability request information.

[0398] Optionally, the first acquisition subunit is used to acquire the timing capability request information through the timing synchronization service request information.

[0399] Optionally, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be obtained through the following methods:

[0400] The timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be determined by one or more of the following: the location of the master clock (GM) in 5GS, the number of network nodes, the time information distribution method, the capability of the network-side time-varying network converter (NW-TT), the capability of the device-side time-varying network converter (DS-TT), and the attribute information of the clock source.

[0401] Optionally, the apparatus in this application embodiment further includes:

[0402] The fourth processing unit is configured to send a timing service request failure message to the application function or the target terminal if it is determined that there is no clock source that can provide the target timing capability; the timing service request failure message includes the timing capability supported by 5GS.

[0403] Optionally, the timing capability includes one or more of the following:

[0404] Clock source identifier;

[0405] Clock source type;

[0406] Synchronization accuracy;

[0407] The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies;

[0408] The coverage or service range supported by the clock source;

[0409] Number of supported terminals;

[0410] Provides the time interval for timing information;

[0411] Differences from Universal Time (UTC);

[0412] The 5GS maintains its timeliness.

[0413] Optionally, the timing capability includes: a spatial validity condition, wherein the spatial validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region.

[0414] Optionally, the first processing unit provides a time synchronization service to the target terminal that meets the target timing capabilities based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, including:

[0415] Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

[0416] Optionally, the first processing unit provides a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability to the target terminal based on the spatial validity conditions and the acquired location of the target terminal, including:

[0417] If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and its location, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0418] Optionally, the first processing unit is further configured to:

[0419] If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated.

[0420] Alternatively, if it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition based on the time validity condition, a waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered.

[0421] The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

[0422] Optionally, the first processing unit is further configured to:

[0423] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0424] If, based on the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal; or...

[0425] If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the spatial validity condition according to the notification instruction, and the current time is determined to be within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition according to the time validity condition, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

[0426] Optionally, the first processing unit is further configured to:

[0427] Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal;

[0428] If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

[0429] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above embodiment of the method for processing timing information applied to the first communication device, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0430] like Figure 10 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a timing information processing device, including:

[0431] The first sending unit 1001 is used to send timing service request information, the timing service request information being used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0432] The first acquisition unit 1002 is used to acquire the timing service response information fed back by the first communication device or the second communication device according to the timing service request information;

[0433] The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0434] Optionally, the apparatus of this embodiment further includes:

[0435] The fourth sending unit is used to send timing capability request information, which is used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS.

[0436] The second acquisition unit is used to acquire the timing capabilities supported by 5GS sent by the first communication device according to the timing capability request information.

[0437] Optionally, the fourth sending unit is used to send a timing synchronization service request information carrying timing capability request information.

[0438] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above-mentioned method embodiment for processing timing information applied to the function, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0439] like Figure 11 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a timing information processing device, including:

[0440] The second receiving unit 1101 is used to receive timing service request information sent by the first communication device, wherein the timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0441] The second processing unit 1102 is used to determine, based on the timing service request information, a clock source that can provide the target timing capability;

[0442] The second sending unit 1103 is used to send timing service response information to the first communication device, wherein the timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability.

[0443] It should be noted that the apparatus provided in this embodiment of the invention can implement all the method steps implemented in the above embodiment of the method for processing timing information applied to the second communication device, and can achieve the same technical effect. Here, the parts that are the same as those in the method embodiment and the beneficial effects will not be described in detail.

[0444] It should be noted that the division of units in the embodiments of this application is illustrative and only represents one logical functional division. In actual implementation, other division methods may be used. Furthermore, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated units described above can be implemented in hardware or as software functional units.

[0445] If the integrated unit is implemented as a software functional unit and sold or used as an independent product, it can be stored in a processor-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or all or part of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) or processor to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0446] In some embodiments of the present invention, a processor-readable storage medium is also provided, the processor-readable storage medium storing program instructions for causing the processor to perform the following steps:

[0447] The system receives a timing service request message sent by the application function. The timing service request message is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0448] If a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability can be provided, then the application function or target terminal shall be provided with a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability.

[0449] Alternatively, a timed service request information may be sent, wherein the timed service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timed capability;

[0450] Alternatively, receive timing service request information or timing service response information sent by the first communication device. The timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability. The timing service response includes timing capability information of the clock source, which can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability. Based on the timing service request information or timing service response information, determine a clock source that can provide a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability, and synchronize to the clock source.

[0451] The terminal devices involved in the embodiments of this application can be devices that provide voice and / or data connectivity to users, handheld devices with wireless connectivity, or other processing devices connected to a wireless modem. The names of the terminal devices may differ in different systems; for example, in a 5G system, a terminal device can be called User Equipment (UE). Wireless terminal devices can communicate with one or more core networks (CNs) via a Radio Access Network (RAN). Wireless terminal devices can be mobile terminal devices, such as mobile phones (or "cellular" phones) and computers with mobile terminal devices, for example, portable, pocket-sized, handheld, computer-embedded, or vehicle-mounted mobile devices that exchange voice and / or data with the RAN. Examples include Personal Communication Service (PCS) phones, cordless phones, Session Initiated Protocol (SIP) phones, Wireless Local Loop (WLL) stations, and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Wireless terminal equipment can also be referred to as a system, subscriber unit, subscriber station, mobile station, mobile station, remote station, access point, remote terminal, access terminal, user terminal, user agent, or user device, but is not limited to these terms in the embodiments of this application.

[0452] The network device involved in this application embodiment can be a base station, which may include multiple cells providing services to terminals. Depending on the specific application, a base station may also be called an access point, or a device in an access network that communicates with a wireless terminal device through one or more sectors on the air interface, or other names. The network device can be used to exchange received air frames with Internet Protocol (IP) packets, acting as a router between the wireless terminal device and the rest of the access network, where the rest of the access network may include an Internet Protocol (IP) communication network. The network device can also coordinate the attribute management of the air interface. For example, the network equipment involved in the embodiments of this application can be a base transceiver station (BTS) in a Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system, a 5G base station (gNB) in a next-generation 5G network architecture, an evolved Node B (eNB or e-NodeB) in a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system, a Home evolved Node B (HeNB), a relay node, a femto, a pico, etc., and is not limited in the embodiments of this application. In some network structures, the network equipment may include centralized unit (CU) nodes and distributed unit (DU) nodes, and the centralized unit and distributed unit may be geographically separated.

[0453] Network devices and terminal devices can each use one or more antennas for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) transmission. MIMO transmission can be single-user MIMO (SU-MIMO) or multiple-user MIMO (MU-MIMO). Depending on the configuration and number of antenna combinations, MIMO transmission can be 2D-MIMO, 3D-MIMO, FD-MIMO, or massive-MIMO, and can also be diversity transmission, precoding transmission, or beamforming transmission, etc.

[0454] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can be provided as methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product implemented on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage and optical storage) containing computer-usable program code.

[0455] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer-executable instructions. These computer-executable instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.

[0456] These processor-executable instructions may also be stored in a processor-readable memory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to operate in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the processor-readable memory produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.

[0457] These processors can execute instructions that can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing device, causing a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable device to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable device for implementing the process. Figure 1One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.

[0458] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A method for processing timing information, characterized in that, Performed by the first communication device, including: Receive timing service request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability; Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, provide time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application functions or target terminals; The timing capability includes: spatial validity conditions, which are used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region; The method further includes: If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated. The method further includes: Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal; If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions as indicated by the notification, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Providing time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application functions or target terminals includes: Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability; if it is determined that there exists a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability, then send the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or the target terminal; or, Determine that a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal through the second communication device; The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: The timed service request information is forwarded to the second communication device; Based on the response information fed back by the second communication device, it is determined whether there is a clock source that can provide the target timing capability. The response information is the information fed back by the second communication device after determining whether it can provide the time synchronization service for the target timing capability based on the timing service request information. Providing time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application functions or target terminals includes: If it is determined that a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability is sent to the application function or the target terminal.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The step of determining whether a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists based on the response information fed back by the second communication device includes: If the response information is a timing service response information, then based on the clock source that satisfies the target timing capability contained in the timing service response information, it is determined that a time synchronization service that satisfies the target timing capability can be provided. If the response information is a timing service request failure message, it is determined that a clock source that meets the target timing capability cannot be provided.

5. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: Send the timing capabilities supported by the 5G system 5GS to the application function or target terminal; or, If it is determined that the timing capabilities supported by 5GS have changed, the changed timing capabilities are sent to the application function or the target terminal.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Sending 5GS-supported timing capabilities to the application function, including: Obtain timing capability request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing capability request information is used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS; Based on the timing capability request information, the timing capabilities supported by 5GS are sent to the application function.

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Obtain the timing capability request information sent by the application function, including: The timing capability request information is obtained by using the timing synchronization service request information.

8. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be obtained in the following ways: The timing capabilities supported by 5GS can be determined by one or more of the following: the location of the master clock (GM) in 5GS, the number of network nodes, the time information distribution method, the capability of the network-side time-varying network converter (NW-TT), the capability of the device-side time-varying network converter (DS-TT), and the attribute information of the clock source.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Also includes: If it is determined that there is no clock source that can provide the target timing capability, a timing service request failure message is sent to the application function or the target terminal. The timed service request failure information includes the timed capabilities supported by 5GS.

10. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The timing capability includes one or more of the following: Clock source identifier; Clock source type; Synchronization accuracy; The terminal identifier of the terminal to which the timing capability applies; The coverage or service range supported by the clock source; Number of supported terminals; Provides the time interval for timing information; Differences from Universal Time (UTC); The 5GS maintains its timeliness.

11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The specific area includes one or more of the following: Area of ​​Interest (AOI); Tracking Area (TA); Geographic Region; and Cell.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, provide the target terminal with time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities, including: Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that, Based on spatial availability conditions and the acquired location of the target terminal, provide the target terminal with a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities, including: If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that, The method further includes: If it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition, the waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered. The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

15. The method according to claim 1, 12, or 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal; If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

16. A method for processing timing information, characterized in that, Performed by application functions, including: Send a timed service request message, the timed service request message being used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timed capability; Obtain the timing service response information fed back by the first communication device based on the timing service request information; The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability; The timing capability included in the timing service response information is determined based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS. The timing capabilities supported by 5GS include: spatial validity conditions, wherein the spatial validity conditions are used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid in a specific region. Where the time synchronization service is not activated if the target terminal is determined not to be in a specific area based on the spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal; When the time synchronization service is activated when the notification message sent based on the AMF determines that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the notification message contains a notification indication to indicate that the target terminal's location has changed.

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that, Also includes: Send timing capability request information, the timing capability request information being used to request the timing capabilities supported by 5GS; Obtain the timing capabilities supported by 5GS sent by the first communication device according to the timing capability request information.

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that, The sending of timing capability request information includes: Send a timed synchronization service request message carrying a timed capability request message.

19. A timing information processing device, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor; A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: The transceiver receives timing service request information sent by the application function. The timing service request information is used to request time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability. Based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, provide time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application functions or target terminals; The timing capability includes: spatial validity conditions, which are used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region; The processor also performs: If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated. The processor also performs: Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal; If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions as indicated by the notification, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that, The processor performs the step of providing a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal, including: Based on the timing service request information and the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, determine whether a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists; if a clock source capable of providing the target timing capability exists, then transmit the timing capability of the clock source capable of providing the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal via a transceiver; or, Determine whether a time synchronization service capable of providing the target timing capability can be provided, and send timing service response information to the second communication device via a transceiver, so as to send the timing capability of the clock source that meets the target timing capability to the application function or target terminal via the second communication device; The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability. The second communication device includes at least one of a Radio Access Network (RAN), a User Plane Function (UPF), a Network-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (NW-TT), a terminal, and a Device-Side Time-Varying Network Converter (DS-TT).

21. The apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that, The processor executes time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities, based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS, and provides these services to the target terminal. Based on the spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability is provided to the target terminal.

22. The apparatus according to claim 21, characterized in that, The processor executes a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capabilities, based on spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, including: If the target terminal is determined to be within a specific area based on spatial validity conditions and the obtained location of the target terminal, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22, characterized in that, The processor also performs: If it is determined that the current time is within the valid time period corresponding to the time validity condition, the waiting state for activation of the time synchronization service is triggered. The time validity condition is used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a valid time period.

24. The apparatus according to claim 19 or 21, characterized in that, The processor executes: Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal; If, according to the notification instructions, it is determined that the target terminal has left the specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the time synchronization service is deactivated.

25. A timing information processing device, characterized in that, Includes memory, transceiver, and processor; A memory for storing computer programs; a transceiver for sending and receiving data under the control of the processor; and a processor for reading the computer programs from the memory and performing the following operations: The transceiver is controlled to send a timing service request message, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability. The transceiver obtains the timing service response information fed back by the first or second communication device based on the timing service request information; The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability; The timing capability included in the timing service response information is determined based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS. The timing capabilities supported by 5GS include: spatial validity conditions, wherein the spatial validity conditions are used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid in a specific region. Where the time synchronization service is not activated if the target terminal is determined not to be in a specific area based on the spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal; When the time synchronization service is activated when the notification message sent based on the AMF determines that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the notification message contains a notification indication to indicate that the target terminal's location has changed.

26. A timing information processing device, characterized in that, include: The first receiving unit is used to receive timing service request information sent by the application function, wherein the timing service request information is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability. The first processing unit is used to provide time synchronization services that meet the target timing capabilities to the application function or target terminal based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS. The timing capability includes: spatial validity conditions, which are used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid within a specific region; The first processing unit is further configured to: If, based on spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal, it is determined that the target terminal is not in a specific area, the time synchronization service will not be activated. The first processing unit is further configured to: Receive a notification message sent by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF), wherein the notification message contains a notification indication indicating a change in the location of the target terminal; If the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions as indicated by the notification, the time synchronization service is activated and provided to the target terminal.

27. A timing information processing device, characterized in that, include: The first sending unit is used to send timing service request information, which is used to request a time synchronization service that meets the target timing capability. The first acquisition unit is used to acquire the timing service response information fed back by the first communication device or the second communication device according to the timing service request information; The timing service response information includes the timing capability of a clock source that satisfies the target timing capability; The timing capability included in the timing service response information is determined based on the timing capabilities supported by 5GS. The timing capabilities supported by 5GS include: spatial validity conditions, wherein the spatial validity conditions are used to characterize that the time synchronization service is valid in a specific region. Where the time synchronization service is not activated if the target terminal is determined not to be in a specific area based on the spatial validity conditions and the location of the target terminal; When the time synchronization service is activated when the notification message sent based on the AMF determines that the target terminal is located in a specific area corresponding to the valid spatial conditions, the notification message contains a notification indication to indicate that the target terminal's location has changed.

28. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores program instructions for causing a processor to perform the steps of the timing information processing method as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, or to perform the steps of the timing information processing method as described in any one of claims 16 to 18.

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