Communication method and communication device

Abstract

The invention provides a communication method and a communication device, which can enable an application network element to obtain information that an end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to a terminal does not meet an end-to-end time synchronization error demand of a time service, and can be applied to a communication system. The method comprises: an access network device determines that an end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to a terminal does not meet an end-to-end time synchronization error demand of a time service; and the access network equipment sends the first information to the application network element. Wherein the first information is used for indicating that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the time service, and the first information is used by the application network element to determine to execute a process of deactivating the time service or a process of modifying the time service.

Description

[0001] This application claims the priority of the Chinese patent application with the application number 202311655883.5 and the application title "Communication Method and Communication Device" submitted to the National Intellectual Property Administration on November 30, 2023, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of communication technologies, and in particular, to a communication method and a communication device. Background Art

[0003] The timing service can be used to perform timing for terminals. The timing service needs to meet the requirements of time synchronization error. However, in the scenario of the timing service, the access network device can only feedback clock status information to the application service network element, such as the clock accuracy of the access network device. Therefore, the application network element cannot obtain the information on whether the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal can meet the delay requirements. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of this application provide a communication method and a communication device, which can enable the application network element to obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service.

[0005] To achieve the above object, this application adopts the following technical solutions:

[0006] In a first aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method includes: The access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service. The access network device sends a first piece of information to the application network element. The first piece of information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service, and the first piece of information is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0007] Based on the method provided in the first aspect, the access network device can, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service, send the first piece of information to the application network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service, so that the application network element can timely obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service, and thus timely execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0008] It should be understood that the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service is determined according to the end-to-end time synchronization error budget. The access network device sending the first information to the application network element may include: the access network device sending the first information to the application network element through time-sensitive communication and the time synchronization network element.

[0009] In a second aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method includes: the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The access network device sends a first information to the time-sensitive communication and the time synchronization network element. The first information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the first information is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0010] Based on the method provided in the second aspect, the access network device may send the first information to the time-sensitive communication and the time synchronization network element when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so as to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the time-sensitive communication and the time synchronization network element can obtain in time the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and can feedback the first information to the application network element.

[0011] Combining the first aspect and the second aspect, in a possible implementation solution, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that: the sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device. In this way, the first information can be sent when the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods do not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. In this way, it can be avoided to send the first information when the time synchronization error corresponding to the delay compensation method meets the end-to-end time synchronization error of the timing service, so as to avoid triggering the application network element to execute the unnecessary process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the process of the timing service, avoid affecting the continuity of the timing service, reduce the information interaction process, and reduce the signaling overhead.

[0012] In a possible implementation, the method provided by the first aspect or the second aspect may further include: The access network device obtains a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error at a preset moment. Since the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods will change, the access network device obtaining the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at the preset moment can periodically sense whether the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service.

[0013] It should be understood that the acquisition times of the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error may be different. For example, the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error at a preset moment. The access network device obtains the second time synchronization error at other moments except the preset moment, such as the first moment.

[0014] In a possible implementation, the method provided by the first aspect or the second aspect may further include: The access network device receives second information, where the second information is used to indicate a first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period. In this way, the access network device can determine whether the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service according to the first period.

[0015] In a possible implementation, the method provided by the first aspect or the second aspect may further include: When the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error. In this way, when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device can determine whether the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service, can obtain the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal in a timely manner, and determine whether the access network device can meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service at the current moment.

[0016] In a third aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method includes: The time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receive first information from the terminal. The first information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirements of the timing service, and the first information is used by the application network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service. The time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element send the first information to the application network element.

[0017] Based on the communication method provided by the third party, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network elements can receive the first information and send the first information to the application network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the application network element can timely obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and thus timely execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0018] In a possible implementation, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that the sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device. In this way, the first information can be sent when the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods do not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. In this way, it can be avoided to send the first information when the time synchronization error corresponding to a delay compensation method meets the end-to-end time synchronization error of the timing service, so as to avoid triggering the application network element to execute unnecessary deactivation of the timing service or modification of the timing service process, avoid affecting the continuity of the timing service, reduce the information interaction process, and reduce the signaling overhead.

[0019] In a fourth aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method includes: The access network device obtains a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error, and determines that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The third time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device, and the first end-to-end time synchronization error includes the third time synchronization error. The fourth time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the second time compensation amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the obtaining methods of the first time compensation amount and the second time compensation amount are different. The access network device determines that the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and performs time synchronization error compensation on the timing service according to the second time compensation amount. The second end-to-end time synchronization error includes the fourth time synchronization error.

[0020] Based on the communication method provided in the fourth aspect, the terminal can, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device cannot meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the second time compensation amount between the terminal and the access network device can meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, use the timing method corresponding to the second time compensation amount to perform synchronization error compensation on the timing service, so as to better ensure the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0021] In a possible implementation solution, the access network device obtaining the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error may include: the access network device obtaining the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0022] It should be understood that the obtaining times of the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error may also be different. For example, the access network device obtains the third time synchronization error at a preset moment. The access network device obtains the fourth time synchronization error at other moments except the preset moment, such as the second moment.

[0023] In a possible implementation solution, the method provided in the fourth aspect may further include: the access network device receiving the second information, where the second information is used to indicate the first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

[0024] In a possible implementation solution, the access network device obtaining the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error includes: when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error.

[0025] In a possible implementation solution, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device. Or, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device.

[0026] In a possible implementation solution, that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error end-to-end requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the third time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. That the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the fourth time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold.

[0027] In a fifth aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method may include: a time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receiving fifth information from an access network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between a terminal and the access network device. When the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element sends sixth information to an application network element, where the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined based on the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the sixth information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the sixth information is used by the application network element to determine to execute a process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0028] Based on the communication method provided in the fifth aspect, when the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element may send sixth information to the application network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the application network element can timely obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and thus timely execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0029] In addition, determining that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service by the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element can reduce the processing flow of the access network device.

[0030] In a possible implementation, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; the situation that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0031] In a possible implementation, before the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receives the fifth information from the access network device, the method provided in the fifth aspect may further include: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The access network device sends the fifth information to the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0032] In a possible implementation, the access network device obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device may include: the access network device obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device at a preset moment.

[0033] In a possible implementation, the method provided in the fifth aspect may further include: the access network device receiving seventh information, where the seventh information is used to indicate a second period, and the preset moment is determined according to the second period.

[0034] In a possible implementation, the access network device obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device may include: when the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0035] In a sixth aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method may include: the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receiving fifth information from the access network device, where the fifth information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. When the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element sends eighth information to the access network device, where the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the eighth information is used to indicate the third time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device, the third time synchronization error budget is determined by the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element according to the current clock accuracy of the access network device and the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the third time synchronization error budget is used to replace the second time synchronization error budget, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0036] Based on the method provided in the sixth aspect, when the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element sends eighth information to the access network device to indicate the updated synchronization error budget, such as the third time synchronization error budget, to replace the old time synchronization error budget, such as the second time synchronization error budget, so as to better meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0037] In a possible implementation, the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the current time synchronization error threshold between the terminal and the access network device.

[0038] In a possible implementation, the method provided in the sixth aspect may further include: the access network device receives the eighth information.

[0039] In a seventh aspect, a communication method is provided. The communication method is applied to a communication network. The communication method includes: the communication network obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, and the communication network determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The communication network sends a ninth information to the application network element. Wherein, the ninth information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the ninth information is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0040] Based on the method provided in the seventh aspect, the communication network can send the ninth information to the application network element when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so as to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the application network element can timely obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and thus timely execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0041] In a possible implementation, the communication network includes an access network device and a time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element. Among them, information interaction can be carried out between the access network device and the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0042] In a possible implementation, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, and determine that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: The access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, and determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. Send the ninth message to the application network element, including: The access network device sends the first message to the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element. The time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receive the first message from the access network device, and send the ninth message to the application network element. Wherein, the first message is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the ninth message is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0043] It can be understood that the ninth message can be determined according to the first message. For example, the ninth message can be the first message.

[0044] In a possible implementation, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that: the sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device.

[0045] In a possible implementation, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: The access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0046] It should be understood that the acquisition times of the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error can be different. For example, the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error at a preset moment. The access network device obtains the second time synchronization error at other moments except the preset moment, such as the first moment.

[0047] In a possible implementation, the method provided in the seventh aspect may further include: The access network device receives the second message, wherein the second message is used to indicate the first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

[0048] In a possible implementation solution, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error.

[0049] In a possible design solution, for obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The method provided in the seventh aspect may further include: the access network device sends a fifth piece of information to the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element. Wherein, the fifth piece of information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. Determining that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. Wherein, the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. Sending a ninth piece of information to the application network element includes: the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element sends a ninth piece of information to the application network element. The ninth piece of information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the ninth piece of information is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0050] In a possible implementation solution, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; determining that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0051] In a possible implementation solution, before the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receives the fifth piece of information from the access network device, the method provided in the seventh aspect may further include: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The access network device sends the fifth piece of information to the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0052] In a possible implementation solution, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device at a preset moment.

[0053] In a possible implementation, the method provided in the seventh aspect may further include: The access network device receives seventh information, where the seventh information is used to indicate a second period, and a preset moment is determined according to the second period.

[0054] In a possible implementation, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: When the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0055] In an eighth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device is used to execute the communication method described in any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect.

[0056] In this application, the communication device described in the eighth aspect may be the access network device described in any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, or the fourth aspect, or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element described in any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, or the sixth aspect, or a chip (system) or other component or assembly that can be disposed in the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element, or a device including the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0057] It should be understood that the communication device described in the eighth aspect includes corresponding modules, units, or means for implementing the communication method described in any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect. The module, unit, or means may be implemented by hardware, software, or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more modules or units for performing the functions involved in the above communication method.

[0058] In a ninth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes: a processor, and the processor is used to execute the communication method described in any one of the possible implementations of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0059] In a possible design, the communication device described in the ninth aspect may further include a transceiver. The transceiver may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit. The transceiver may be used for the communication device described in the ninth aspect to communicate with other communication devices.

[0060] In a possible design, the communication device described in the ninth aspect may further include a memory. The memory may be integrated with the processor or may be separately provided. The memory may be used to store the computer programs and / or data involved in the communication method described in any one of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0061] In this application, the communication device described in the ninth aspect may be the access network device described in any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, or the fourth aspect, or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element described in any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, or the sixth aspect, or a chip (system) or other component or assembly that can be disposed in the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element, or a device including the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0062] In a tenth aspect, a communication device is provided. The communication device includes: a processor coupled to a memory, and the processor is configured to execute a computer program stored in the memory, so that the communication device executes the communication method described in any possible implementation manner of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0063] In a possible design, the communication device described in the tenth aspect may further include a transceiver. The transceiver may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit. The transceiver may be used for the communication device described in the tenth aspect to communicate with other communication devices.

[0064] In this application, the communication device described in the tenth aspect may be the access network device described in any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, or the fourth aspect, or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element described in any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, or the sixth aspect, or a chip (system) or other component or assembly that can be disposed in the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element, or a device including the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0065] In an eleventh aspect, a communication device is provided, including: a processor and a memory; the memory is configured to store a computer program, and when the processor executes the computer program, the communication device executes the communication method described in any one of the implementation manners of the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0066] In a possible design, the communication device described in the eleventh aspect may further include a transceiver. The transceiver may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit. The transceiver may be used for the communication device described in the eleventh aspect to communicate with other communication devices.

[0067] In this application, the communication device described in the eleventh aspect may be the access network device described in any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, or the fourth aspect, or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element described in any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, or the sixth aspect, or a chip (system) or other component or assembly that can be disposed in the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element, or a device including the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0068] In a twelfth aspect, a communication device is provided, including: a processor; the processor is used to be coupled with a memory, and after reading a computer program in the memory, execute the communication method according to any one of the implementation manners described in the first aspect to the sixth aspect according to the computer program.

[0069] In a possible design, the communication device described in the twelfth aspect may further include a transceiver. The transceiver may be a transceiver circuit or an interface circuit. The transceiver may be used for the communication device described in the twelfth aspect to communicate with other communication devices.

[0070] In this application, the communication device described in the twelfth aspect may be the access network device described in any one of the first aspect, the second aspect, or the fourth aspect, or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element described in any one of the third aspect, the fifth aspect, or the sixth aspect, or a chip (system) or other component or assembly that can be disposed in the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element, or a device including the access network device or the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

[0071] In a thirteenth aspect, a processor is provided. The processor is used to execute the communication method according to any one of the possible implementation manners described in the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0072] In a fourteenth aspect, a communication system is provided. The communication system includes one or more terminals and one or more network devices.

[0073] In a fifteenth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, including: a computer program or instruction; when the computer program or instruction runs on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the communication method according to any one of the possible implementation manners described in the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0074] In a sixteenth aspect, a computer program product is provided, including a computer program or instruction, when the computer program or instruction runs on a computer, the computer is caused to execute the communication method according to any one of the possible implementation manners described in the first aspect to the sixth aspect.

[0075] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device described in the above eighth aspect to the sixteenth aspect, reference may be made to the technical effects of the communication method described in the above first aspect to the sixth aspect, which will not be elaborated here. Description of the Drawings

[0076] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of the architecture of the core network provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0077] Figure 2 It is a schematic diagram of the end-to-end time synchronization error provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0078] Figure 3 Schematic flow of the propagation delay compensation method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 1 ;

[0079] Figure 4 Schematic flow of the propagation delay compensation method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 2 ;

[0080] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the process of activating the timing service provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0081] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal affected by the embodiment of the present application;

[0082] Figure 7 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 1 ;

[0083] Figure 8 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 2 ;

[0084] Figure 9 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 3 ;

[0085] Figure 10 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 4 ;

[0086] Figure 11 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 5 ;

[0087] Figure 12 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 6 ;

[0088] Figure 13 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 7 ;

[0089] Figure 14 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 8 ;

[0090] Figure 15 Schematic structure of the communication device provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 1 ;

[0091] Figure 16 Schematic structure of the communication device provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 2。 Detailed implementation manners

[0092] To facilitate the understanding of the embodiments of the present application, the terms related to the embodiments of the present application are briefly introduced below.

[0093] 1. Fifth-generation (5G) mobile communication system (hereinafter referred to as 5G system (5G system, 5GS)):

[0094] Figure 1 FIG. is a schematic diagram of the architecture of 5GS based on the service architecture. As Figure 1 shown, 5GS includes: an access network (AN) and a core network (CN), and may also include: a terminal, where the terminal may also be referred to as a user equipment (UE).

[0095] Among them, the CN may include a time-sensitive communication and time synchronization function (TSCTSF), an application function (AF) network element or a service communication proxy (SCP) network element, a network exposure function (NEF) network element, a network function storage function (NRF) network element, a policy control function (PCF) network element (hereinafter referred to as a policy control network element), a unified data repository (UDR) network element, a unified data management (UDM) network element (hereinafter referred to as a data management network element), a core access and mobility management function (AMF) network element, a session management function (SMF) network element (hereinafter referred to as a session management network element), a binding support function (BSF) network element, and a user plane function (UPF) network element (hereinafter referred to as a user plane network element).

[0096] It should be noted that Figure 1Only some examples of network elements or entities in the 5G network are given by way of example. The 5G network may further include some network elements or entities not shown in Figure 1 such as a network data analytics function (NWDAF) network element (abbreviated as network data analytics network element), a charging function (CHF) network element, an authentication server function (AUSF) network element, a network slice selection function (NSSF) network element, a network slice-specific and Stand-alone NPN authentication and authorization function (NSSAAF) network element, a network slice admission control function (NSACF) network element, etc. The embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations on this.

[0097] Among them, as Figure 1 shown, the UE accesses the 5G network through the AN device. The UE communicates with the AMF network element through the N1 interface (abbreviated as N1); the RAN device communicates with the AMF network element through the N2 interface (abbreviated as N2); the RAN device communicates with the UPF network element through the N3 interface (abbreviated as N3); the SMF network element communicates with the UPF network element through the N4 interface (abbreviated as N4), and the UPF network element accesses the data network (DN) through the N6 interface (abbreviated as N6). Different UPF network elements communicate with each other through the N9 interface (abbreviated as N9).

[0098] In addition, Figure 1The control plane functions such as the NEF network element, NRF network element, TSCTSF network element, AF network element, PCF network element, UDR network element, UDM network element, AMF network element, SMF network element, or BSF network element interact using service-based interfaces. For example, the service-based interface provided by the NEF network element to the outside world is Nnef, the service-based interface provided by the NRF network element to the outside world is Nnrf, the service-based interface provided by the TSCTSF network element to the outside world is Ntsctsf, the service-based interface provided by the AF network element to the outside world is Naf, the service-based interface provided by the PCF network element to the outside world is Npcf, the service-based interface provided by the UDR network element to the outside world is Nudr, the service-based interface provided by the UDM network element to the outside world is Nudm, the service-based interface provided by the AMF network element to the outside world is Namf, the service-based interface provided by the SMF network element to the outside world is Nsmf, and the service-based interface provided by the BSF network element to the outside world is Nbsf. The relevant function descriptions and interface descriptions can be referred to the 5G system architecture diagram in Technical Specification (TS) 23.501 standard, which will not be elaborated here.

[0099] Next, the functions of each part or network element involved in the above network architecture in the 5G network will be exemplarily described separately.

[0100] (1) The UE can be a terminal with transceiver functions, or a chip or chip system that can be set in the terminal, or a unit or module with terminal functions. This terminal can also be called a terminal device, and can also be called a user equipment (UE), a mobile station (MS), a mobile terminal (MT), etc., or a device for providing voice or data connectivity to users, and can also be an Internet of Things device. For example, the terminal includes handheld devices, vehicle-mounted devices, etc. with wireless connection functions. Currently, the terminal can be: a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a palm computer, a mobile internet device (MID), a wearable device (such as a smart watch, a smart bracelet, a pedometer, smart glasses, etc.), a vehicle-mounted device (such as a car, a bicycle, an electric vehicle, an airplane, a ship, a train, a high-speed train, etc.), a satellite terminal, a virtual reality (VR) device, an augmented reality (AR) device, a smart point of sale (POS) machine, a customer-premises equipment (CPE), a wireless terminal in industrial control, a smart home device (such as a refrigerator, a TV, an air conditioner, an electric meter, etc.), a smart robot, a robotic arm, a workshop device, a wireless terminal in unmanned driving, a wireless terminal in remote medical treatment, a wireless terminal in a smart grid, a wireless terminal in transportation safety, a wireless terminal in a smart city, or a wireless terminal in a smart home, a flying device (such as a smart robot, a hot air balloon, a drone, an airplane), etc. The terminal can also be a vehicle device, such as a vehicle device, a vehicle-mounted module, a vehicle-mounted chip, an on-board unit (OBU), or a telematics box (T-BOX), etc. The terminal can also be other devices with terminal functions. For example, the terminal can also be a device that serves as a terminal function in D2D communication.

[0101] (2) The AN network element is used to implement functions related to access. It can provide network access functions for authorized terminals in a specific area and can use transmission tunnels of different qualities according to the level of the terminal, service requirements, etc. The AN forwards control signals and user data between the network element terminal and the CN. The AN network element in this application can be a radio access network (RAN) network element. The RAN network element can manage radio resources, provide access services for UEs, and then complete the forwarding of control signals and terminal data between the terminal and the core network. The RAN network element can also be understood as a base station in a traditional network. For example, it can be responsible for functions such as radio resource management on the air interface side, quality of service (QoS) management, data compression, and encryption.

[0102] The RAN network element can be a device in a wireless network. The RAN network element can also be referred to as a wireless RAN network element or a network device or a wireless network node. Currently, some examples of RAN network elements are: the Next Generation Node B (gNB) in the 5G system, the transmission reception point (TRP), the evolved Node B (eNB) in the long term evolution (LTE) system, the radio network controller (RNC), the Node B (NB), the base station controller (BSC), the base transceiver station (BTS), the home base station (e.g., home evolved NodeB, or home Node B, HNB), the base band unit (BBU), or the wireless fidelity (Wifi) access point (AP), etc. In a network structure, the network device can include a centralized unit (CU) node, or a distributed unit (DU) node, or a RAN network element including a CU node and a DU node. The RAN network element can also be a wireless backhaul device, a vehicle-mounted device, a wearable device, and network devices in future 5G networks or network devices in future evolved PLMN networks, etc. In the third generation (3G) system, it is called Node B, etc.

[0103] In a possible scenario, multiple network devices cooperate to assist a terminal in achieving wireless access, and different network devices respectively implement some functions of a base station. For example, the network device can be a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a CU-control plane (CP), a CU-user plane (UP), or a radio unit (RU), etc. The CU and DU can be separately set, or can also be included in the same network element, such as a baseband unit (BBU). The RU can be included in a radio frequency device or a radio frequency unit, such as included in a remote radio unit (RRU), an active antenna unit (AAU), or a remote radio head (RRH). It can be understood that the network device can be a CU node, or a DU node, or a device including a CU node and a DU node. In addition, the CU can be classified as a network device in a radio access network (RAN), or the CU can be classified as a network device in a core network (CN), which is not limited herein.

[0104] In different systems, the CU (or CU-CP and CU-UP), DU, or RU may also have different names, but those skilled in the art can understand their meanings. For example, in an open RAN (ORAN) system, the CU can also be called an O-CU (open CU), the DU can also be called an O-DU, the CU-CP can also be called an O-CU-CP, the CU-UP can also be called an O-CU-UP, and the RU can also be called an O-RU. For the convenience of description, the CU, CU-CP, CU-UP, DU, and RU are used as examples in this application. Any one of the CU (or CU-CP, CU-UP), DU, and RU in this application can be implemented by a software module, a hardware module, or a combination of a software module and a hardware module.

[0105] (3) Application function network element, mainly used to provide application layer information to the 3GPP network. For example, the application function network element can be used to transfer the requirements of the application side to the network side, such as QoS requirements, or user status event subscriptions, etc. The AF can be a third-party functional entity or an application server deployed by the operator). In the 5G communication system, the application function network element can be an application function (AF) network element. In future communication systems, the application function network element can still be an AF network element, or have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application. Exemplarily, the AF network element can include, for example, a services capability server (SCS) or an application server (AS).

[0106] (4) Network function (NF), the NF network element can include a policy control network element (such as a PCF network element), a mobility management network element (such as an AMF network element), an SMF network element, a network exposure function network element (such as a NEF network element), an application function network element (such as an AF network element), or a time-sensitive communication and time synchronization function element (such as a TSCTSF network element).

[0107] (5) Mobility management network element, belonging to the core network element, mainly responsible for the signaling processing part, such as: access control, mobility management, attachment and detachment, and gateway selection, etc. When the mobility management network element provides services for the session of the terminal, it will provide control plane storage resources for the session to store session identifiers, SMF network element identifiers associated with the session identifiers, etc. In the 5G communication system, this mobility management network element can be an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element. In future communication systems, the mobility management network element can still be an AMF network element, or, there can also be other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0108] (6) Network exposure function network element, which mainly provides services that enable the 3rd generation partnership project (3GPP) network to securely provide network service capabilities to third-party service provider application function network elements. In other words, it is responsible for externally providing the capabilities and events of the 5G network, as well as receiving relevant external information. In a 5G communication system, the network exposure function network element can be a network exposure function (NEF) network element. In future communication systems, the network exposure function network element can still be a NEF network element, or have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application. The NEF network element is used to expose the capabilities and functions of the network to third-party programs, enabling them to interact with the 5G network and utilize its resources; the NEF network element allows external application programs to discover and access various network services and functions provided by the 5G network, such as authentication, mobility management, etc.; the NEF network element can provide a unified and secure interface for third-party application programs to interact with the 5G network.

[0109] (7) Policy control network element, which includes user subscription data management function, policy control function, charging policy control function, QoS control, etc., and is a unified policy framework for guiding network behavior, providing policy rule information for control plane function network elements (such as AMF network elements, etc.). In a 5G communication system, the policy control network element can be a PCF network element. In future communication systems, the policy control function network element can still be a PCF network element, or have other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0110] (8) Binding support network element, which is mainly responsible for sending service messages of the same user sent from the same interface or different interfaces to the same PCF for processing according to the session binding information. In a 5G communication system, this binding support network element can be a BSF network element. In future communication systems, the binding support network element can still be a BSF network element, or, there can also be other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0111] (9) Data management network element, which is used to process user identification, access authentication, registration, or mobility management, etc. In a 5G communication system, the network element or entity corresponding to the data management network element can be the unified data management (UDM) network element in the 5G network architecture, where Nudm is the service-based interface provided by the UDM network element, and the UDM network element can communicate with other network functions through Nudm. In future communication systems, the data management network element can still be a UDM network element, or the data management network element has other names, which are not limited in the embodiments of this application.

[0112] (10) Unified data storage network element, which is mainly responsible for storing structured data, including subscribed data, policy data, and data related to capability open. In a 5G communication system, the unified data storage network element may be a UDR network element. In future communication systems, the unified data storage network element may still be a UDR network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0113] (11) Time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element. Its main function is to associate the time synchronization service requests of consumers, such as those of NFs, with the AF sessions of the PCF; detect the availability of 5GS bridge information of Ethernet and IP type PDU sessions reported by the PCF to implement the deterministic forwarding management capability within the 5G communication system. In a 5G communication system, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element may be a TSCTSF network element. In future communication systems, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element may still be a TSCTSF network element, or it may have other names, which are not limited in this application.

[0114] For ease of understanding, in the embodiments of this application, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element is taken as the TSCTSF network element, the application network element is taken as the AF network element, the mobility management network element is taken as the AMF network element, the policy control network element is taken as the PCF network element, the binding support function network element is taken as the BSF network element, the network exposure function network element is taken as the NEF network element, and the unified data management network element is taken as the UDM network element as examples for illustration.

[0115] 2. The clock accuracy of the access network device refers to the clock deviation generated on the access network device.

[0116] The end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal refers to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device or between the terminal and the user plane network element. As Figure 2 shown, the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal may include the clock accuracy of the access network device, the air interface time synchronization error (which may also be referred to as the Uu interface time synchronization error), and the inaccuracy of the terminal internal clock (which may also be referred to as the terminal internal time synchronization error).

[0117] 3. Propagation delay compensation (PDC) technology is a technology used to compensate for the propagation delay between two devices, such as the air interface time synchronization error. The air interface time synchronization error includes the downlink propagation delay, that is, the propagation delay when the network device sends a signal to the terminal device.

[0118] The PDC technology may include PDC based on timing advance (TA) and PDC based on round-trip time (RTT).

[0119] As shown Figure 3 in the figure, the process of PDC based on TA includes:

[0120] S301, the access network device sends a downlink measurement message to the terminal. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the downlink measurement message from the access network device.

[0121] S302, after receiving the downlink measurement message, the terminal sends an uplink measurement message to the base station. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the uplink measurement message.

[0122] Among them, the time when the access network device receives the uplink measurement message is t2.

[0123] S303, the access network device determines the TA according to the time of sending the downlink measurement message and the time when the terminal receives the downlink measurement message.

[0124] Assume that the time when the access network device sends the downlink measurement message to the terminal is time t1, and the time when the access network device receives the uplink measurement message is time t2. Then, the time advance can satisfy the relationship shown in the following formula (1):

[0125]

[0126] S304, the access network device sends a TA command. Correspondingly, the terminal receives the TA command.

[0127] Among them, the TA command may include the TA or the change amount of the TA. It can be understood that the change amount of the TA has a corresponding relationship with the TA corresponding to the TA command.

[0128] S305, the terminal can determine the downlink propagation delay according to the TA indicated in the TA command, and then adjust the time of the terminal according to the downlink propagation delay, or perform time synchronization error compensation.

[0129] As shown Figure 4 in the figure, the process of PDC based on RTT includes:

[0130] S401, the access network device sends a downlink reference signal to the terminal and records the time of sending the downlink reference signal.

[0131] Among them, the downlink reference signal may be a tracking reference signal (TRS) or a positioning reference signal (PRS). The downlink reference signals listed here are only for example. In actual implementation, it may also be other possible reference signals, which will not be elaborated here.

[0132] S402. After the terminal receives the downlink reference signal, it sends an uplink reference signal and determines the time for sending the uplink reference signal. Correspondingly, the access network device receives the uplink reference signal and determines the time when the uplink reference signal is received.

[0133] Among them, the uplink reference signal may be a sounding reference signal (SRS). The uplink reference signals listed here are only for illustration. In actual implementation, it may also be other possible reference signals, which will not be elaborated here.

[0134] For example, the time when the access network device sends the downlink reference signal may be time t1, the time when the terminal receives the downlink reference signal is time t2, the time when the terminal sends the uplink reference signal is time t3, and the time when the access network device receives the uplink reference signal is time t4.

[0135] In a possible design solution, the access network device can perform delay compensation. In this case, the PDC process based on RTT may further include the process shown in (a) of Figure 4 as follows:

[0136] S403a. The terminal determines the first time difference between the time when the terminal sends the uplink reference signal and the time when the terminal receives the downlink reference signal.

[0137] Taking the times t1 to t4 as an example above, then, the first time difference Δt1 between the time when the terminal sends the uplink reference signal and the time when the terminal receives the downlink reference signal satisfies the relationship shown in the following formula (2):

[0138] Δt1 = t3 - t2; (2)

[0139] S404a. The terminal sends a first time difference measurement report to the access network device.

[0140] The first time difference measurement report is used to indicate the first time difference.

[0141] S405a. The access network device determines the time compensation amount according to the first time difference, and then performs delay compensation.

[0142] For example, the terminal can determine the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device according to the first time difference and the second time difference, and determine the time compensation amount according to the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device. For example, the time compensation amount may be equal to the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device. Among them, the propagation delay delay between the terminal and the access network device satisfies the relationship between the following formula (3) and formula (5):

[0143] t2 - t1 = delay + offset; (3)

[0144] t4 - t3 = delay - offset; (4)

[0145]

[0146] Among them, offset is the clock deviation of the terminal.

[0147] In a possible design solution, the terminal can perform time delay compensation. In this case, the PDC process based on RTT can further include the process shown in (b) of Figure 4 as follows:[[]]

[0148] S403b. The access network device determines the time difference between the time when the access network device sends the downlink reference signal and the time when the access network device receives the uplink reference signal.

[0149] Taking the above-mentioned moments t1 to t4 as an example, then, the second time difference Δt2 between the time when the terminal sends the uplink reference signal and the time when the terminal receives the downlink reference signal satisfies the relationship shown in the following formula (6):

[0150] Δt2 = t4 - t1; (6)

[0151] S404b. The access network device sends a second time difference measurement report to the terminal.

[0152] The second time difference measurement report is used to indicate the second time difference.

[0153] S405b. The terminal determines the time compensation amount according to the second time difference, and then performs time delay compensation.

[0154] For example, the terminal can determine the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device according to the first time difference and the second time difference, and determine the time compensation amount according to the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device. For example, the time compensation amount can be equal to the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device. Among them, the propagation delay between the terminal and the access network device can satisfy the relationship between the following formula (7) and formula (9):

[0155] t2 - t1 = delay + offset; (7)

[0156] t4 - t3 = delay - offset; (8)

[0157]

[0158] 4. The activation process of the timing service, which can also be said to be the activation process of the timing service.

[0159] Such as Figure 5As shown, the activation process of the timing service may include the following steps:

[0160] S501, the AF network element sends Message #1 to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF receives Message #1 from the AF.

[0161] Among them, Message #1 is used to activate the timing service. Message #1 may include information about the terminal that needs to activate the timing service, the time synchronization error budget, and parameters of the access layer time synchronization service (such as parameters of the 5G access layer time synchronization service). It should be understood that the terminal that needs to activate the timing service may include one terminal or multiple terminals. The information about the terminal that needs to activate the timing service may include the subscription permanent identifier (SUPI) and / or the generic public subscription identifier (GPSI) of the terminal that needs to activate the timing service. If the terminals that need to activate the timing service are multiple terminals, the information about the terminals that need to activate the timing service may include the external group identifier of the terminals.

[0162] Among them, Message #1 may be carried in the Nnef_ASTI_Create Request message. In some possible embodiments, Message #1 may also be referred to as an AF request or an AF request message.

[0163] The following takes the parameters of the 5G access layer time synchronization service as an example to illustrate the parameters of the access layer time synchronization service and the interpretation of each parameter. The parameters of the 5G access layer time synchronization service are shown in Table 1 below.

[0164] Table 1

[0165]

[0166] S502, the NEF network element sends Message #2 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives Message #2 from the NEF network element.

[0167] Message #2 may include information about the terminal that needs to activate the timing service and parameters of the access layer time synchronization service.

[0168] In a possible implementation, the NEF network element authenticates the AF network element, and executes S502 when the authentication of the AF network element passes. The NEF network element determines the TSCTSF network element according to Message #1. For example, the NEF network element can determine the TSCTSF network element according to the information of the terminal to be activated, such as GPSI or external group identifier, and thus send Message #2 to the TSCTSF network element.

[0169] Message #2 can be carried in the Nnef_ASTI_Create Request message.

[0170] After receiving Message #2, the TSCTSF network element can calculate the time synchronization error budget corresponding to the terminal according to the time synchronization error budget, that is, the radio interface time synchronization error budget, which can also be said to be the time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device, or the Uu interface time synchronization error budget (Uu time synchronization error budget).

[0171] S503, the TSCTSF network element sends Message #3 to the BSF network element. Correspondingly, the BSF network element receives Message #3 from the TSCTSF network element. Message #3 can carry the information of the terminal for which the timing service needs to be activated, as well as the parameters of the time synchronization service.

[0172] Message #3 can be carried in the Nbsf_Management_Subscribe message.

[0173] S504, the BSF network element sends Message #4 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives Message #4 from the BSF network element.

[0174] Message #3 can include the identifier of the PCF network element, and this PCF network element can be used to process the AM access policy of the terminal corresponding to the SUPI.

[0175] The BSF network element can determine the terminal and the PCF network element for processing the AM access policy of the terminal according to the SUPI of the terminal, and send Message #4 to the UE to indicate the PCF network element selected by the BSF network element.

[0176] Message #4 can be carried in the Nbsf_Management_Notify message.

[0177] S505, the TSCTSF network element sends an AM policy request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AM policy request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0178] Among them, the AM policy request includes information about the terminal that needs to activate the timing service, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, as well as the detailed level of clock quality and the clock quality acceptance criteria.

[0179] The AM policy request can be carried in the authorization request, such as in Npcf_AMPolicyAuthorization_CreateRequest.

[0180] S506, the PCF network element initiates the AM policy modification process for the terminal to the AMF network element, and provides parameters for the 5G access layer time synchronization service to the AMF network element.

[0181] After the AM policy modification process for the terminal is completed, the PCF network element can obtain information indicating whether the timing for the terminal is successful.

[0182] S507, the PCF network element sends the authorization service result to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the authorization service result from the PCF network element.

[0183] The authorization service result is used to indicate whether the AM policy is successfully associated.

[0184] Among them, the timing service result can be carried in the Npcf_AMPolicyAuthorization_Create Response message.

[0185] S508, the TSCTSF network element sends the timing service result to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives the timing service result from the TSCTSF network element.

[0186] Among them, the timing service result is used to indicate whether the timing service is successfully activated.

[0187] The timing service result can be carried in the Ntsctsf_ASTI_Create Response message.

[0188] S509, the NEF network element sends the timing service result to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the timing service result from the NEF network element.

[0189] Among them, the timing service result is used to indicate whether the timing service is successfully activated.

[0190] The timing service result can be carried in the Ntsctsf_ASTI_Create Response message.

[0191] S510, the AMF network element sends message #5 to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives message #5 from the AMF network element.

[0192] Among them, message #5 includes the 5G access layer time distribution indication, the radio interface time synchronization error budget, the detailed level of clock quality, and the clock quality acceptance criteria.

[0193] The access network device can determine the PDC technology for timing service according to the time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device indicated in message #5, such as the Uu interface time synchronization error budget, or it can be said to determine the time compensation amount for timing service. For example, if the time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device is 100 nanoseconds (ns), the PDC based on TA can provide a time synchronization error of 110 ns, and the PDC based on RTT can provide a time synchronization error of 90 ns. Then, the access network device can use the PDC based on RTT to compensate for the time synchronization error of the timing service. The result of the timing service can be carried in the N2 message.

[0194] In Figure 5 In the process of the provided method, the network timing synchronization status of the device participating in the timing service, such as the access network device, may change. The access network device can detect the network timing synchronization status to determine whether the network timing synchronization status deteriorates or improves, and send the timing synchronization status information to the TSCTSF network element. Among them, the timing synchronization status information can be used to indicate the network timing synchronization status. Table 2 shows the cells that the timing synchronization status information can include and the interpretations of each cell.

[0195] Table 2

[0196]

[0197]

[0198] The terminal's quality requirements for the timing service include the hardware capabilities of the internal clock source of the access network device (such as clock quality), and the time synchronization error generated between the access network device and the terminal (i.e., the end-to-end time synchronization error budget (E2E time synchronization error budget)). Among them, the hardware capabilities (such as clock quality) can be obtained by the TSCTSF network element subscribing to the timing synchronization status information from the access network device.

[0199] The end-to-end time synchronization error budget corresponding to the terminal is related to the internal clock accuracy of the access network device, the radio interface time synchronization error generated from the access network device to the terminal, and the terminal capabilities and the inaccuracy of the internal clock. For example Figure 6As shown, when the clock of the access network device degrades or fails, or the PDC technology switches, it may cause the end-to-end time synchronization error budget corresponding to the terminal to be affected by the clock accuracy and the air interface synchronization error budget. In some possible design solutions, 5GS can support network timing synchronization status monitoring and modify the timing service of the terminal (one or more terminals) according to the current network timing synchronization status. Among them, both the TSCTSF network element and the AF network element can obtain the timing synchronization status information through subscription. Combining Table 2, it can be seen that both the TSCTSF network element and the AF network element can obtain the internal clock accuracy of the access network device through subscription. The terminal capabilities and internal clock inaccuracies can be specified by the network operator corresponding to the terminal. That is to say, the TSCTSF network element and the AF network element can obtain the terminal capabilities and internal clock inaccuracies. The air interface time synchronization error is affected by the PDC technology of the access network device and the distance between the access network device and the terminal, and needs to be obtained through air interface measurement. Therefore, when the timing service is activated, after the distance between the terminal and the access network device changes and / or the clock accuracy of the access network device changes, the E2E time synchronization error may change from meeting the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service to not meeting the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. However, the AF network element cannot determine the state where the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0200] To solve the problem that the AF network element cannot determine the state where the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, in an embodiment of the present application, a communication method is provided. In this communication method, if the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, it sends the first information to the AF network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and enables the AF network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service according to the first information.

[0201] In another embodiment of the present application, a communication method is provided. In this communication method, when the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, it sends the sixth information to the AF network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the AF network element can timely obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and thus timely execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0202] In addition, the above Figure 5In the provided solution, the PDC technology adopted cannot be adjusted according to the actual situation. To solve this problem, in an embodiment of the present application, a communication method is provided. In this communication method, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device cannot meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the second time compensation amount between the terminal and the access network device can meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the second time compensation amount is used to perform synchronization error compensation on the timing service, so as to better ensure the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0203] In another embodiment of the present application, a communication method is provided. In this communication method, when the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the TSCTSF network element sends the eighth information to the access network device to indicate an updated synchronization error budget, such as the third time synchronization error budget, to replace the old time synchronization error budget, such as the second time synchronization error budget, so as to better meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0204] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application can be applied to various communication systems, such as wireless fidelity (WiFi) systems, vehicle to everything (V2X) communication systems, device-to-device (D2D) communication systems, vehicle networking communication systems, 4th generation (4G) mobile communication systems, such as long term evolution (LTE) systems, worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) communication systems, 5th generation (5G) mobile communication systems, such as new radio (NR) systems, and future communication systems, such as 6th generation (6G) mobile communication systems, etc.

[0205] The present application will present various aspects, embodiments, or features around a system that may include multiple devices, components, modules, etc. It should be understood and appreciated that each system may include additional devices, components, modules, etc., and / or may not include all the devices, components, modules, etc. discussed in conjunction with the figures. In addition, combinations of these solutions can also be used.

[0206] In addition, in the embodiments of the present application, words such as "exemplarily" and "for example" are used to represent examples, illustrations or explanations. Any embodiment or design solution described as an "example" in the present application should not be construed as being more preferred or having more advantages than other embodiments or design solutions. Rather, the use of the word "example" is intended to present concepts in a specific manner.

[0207] In the embodiments of the present application, "information", "signal", "message", "channel", and "signaling" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when their differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are the same. "Of", "corresponding", and "corresponding" can sometimes be used interchangeably. It should be noted that when their differences are not emphasized, their intended meanings are the same.

[0208] The network architecture and service scenarios described in the embodiments of the present application are for more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present application. Those of ordinary skill in the art can know that with the evolution of the network architecture and the emergence of new service scenarios, the technical solutions provided by the embodiments of the present application are equally applicable to similar technical problems.

[0209] Next, the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application will be specifically described in conjunction with Figures 7 - 14 The communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application will be specifically elaborated.

[0210] Figure 7 is a schematic flow chart of the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application Figure 1 . In Figure 7 the shown embodiment, the access network device may send the first information to the AF network element when it is determined that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. As Figure 7 shown, the communication method includes steps S701 to S702:

[0211] S701, the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0212] In a possible implementation, the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal not meeting the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that the sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, which can also be said to be the requirement of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device. That is to say, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device after compensating for the propagation delay according to the TA between the terminal and the access network device. The second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device. That is to say, the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device after compensating for the propagation delay according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device.

[0213] It should be understood that the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service may include the end-to-end time synchronization error budget.

[0214] The clock accuracy threshold is the requirement for the clock accuracy of the access network device.

[0215] In this way, when the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods do not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the first information can be sent. In this way, it can be avoided that when the time synchronization error corresponding to the delay compensation method meets the end-to-end time synchronization error of the timing service, the first information is sent, thereby avoiding triggering the application network element to execute an unnecessary process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the process of the timing service, avoiding affecting the continuity of the timing service, reducing the information interaction process, and reducing the signaling overhead.

[0216] S702, the access network device sends the first information to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first information from the access network device.

[0217] Wherein, the first information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the first information is used by the AF network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the process of the timing service.

[0218] In a possible design, the first information may include the identifier of the access network device, the identifier of the terminal, and the information used to indicate that the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0219] In a possible design, S702 may include: The access network device sends the first information to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the first information from the access network device. The TSCTSF network element sends the first information to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first information from the TSCTSF network element. That is to say, the access network device can send the first information to the AF network element through the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element can receive the first information from the access network device through the TSCTSF network element.

[0220] In this way, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the access network device can send the first information to the TSCTSF network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the TSCTSF network element can obtain in time the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and can feedback the first information to the AF network element.

[0221] It should be understood that the access network device can send the first information to the TSCTSF network element through the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element can receive the first information from the access network device through the AMF network element. Based on Figure 7 the provided method, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the access network device can send the first information to the AF network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the AF network element can obtain in time the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and thus can execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service in time.

[0222] In a possible implementation, Figure 7 the provided method may further include: The access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0223] The preset moment may be a moment pre-stored in the access network device. It should be understood that the preset moment may be one or more.

[0224] Since the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods will change, the access network device obtaining the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at the preset moment can periodically sense whether the time synchronization errors corresponding to different delay compensation methods meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0225] In a possible implementation,Figure 7 The provided method may further include: the access network device receives second information, where the second information is used to indicate a first period, and a preset moment is determined according to the first period. That is to say, the access network device can obtain a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error according to the first period. In this case, the time length between two adjacent preset moments is equal to the time length of the first period.

[0226] The first period is a period used to trigger the access network device to perform air interface measurement to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, and the length of the first period is related to the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement.

[0227] Taking the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement as an example of the end-to-end time synchronization error budget, the first period is positively correlated with the end-to-end time synchronization error budget. That is to say, if the value of the time synchronization error budget is smaller, the first period is shorter; if the value of the time synchronization error budget is larger, the first period is longer. The first period can also be referred to as the PDC measurement period.

[0228] In a possible implementation scenario, Figure 7 The provided method may further include: when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error.

[0229] In this way, when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device can determine whether the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, can obtain the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal in a timely manner, and can determine whether the access network device can meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service at the current moment.

[0230] It should be understood that the acquisition opportunities of the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error may be different. For example, the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error at a preset moment. The access network device obtains the second time synchronization error at other moments except the preset moment, such as the first moment.

[0231] It should be understood that in this case, the access network device can also determine the relationship between the clock accuracy of the access network device and the clock accuracy threshold.

[0232] Figure 8 Schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiment of the present application Figure 2 . In Figure 8 In the shown embodiment, when the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the access network device may send first information to the AF network element. As Figure 8As shown, the communication method includes steps S801 to S803:

[0233] S801, the access network device obtains a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error.

[0234] The third time synchronization error is a time synchronization error determined according to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device. Or rather, the third time synchronization error is the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device after propagation delay compensation is performed according to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device. The first end-to-end time synchronization error includes the third time synchronization error.

[0235] For the implementation principles of the first time compensation amount and the second time compensation amount, reference can be made to Figure 3 or Figure 4 the relevant introductions in.

[0236] The first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device refers to the time compensation amount used by the access network device for propagation delay compensation when executing S801. It can also be said that it is the time compensation amount corresponding to the PDC technology adopted by the access network device when executing S801. In a possible implementation scenario, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device. Or, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device. For example, if the access network device adopts TA-based PDC when executing S801, then the first time compensation amount can be TA. Another example, if the access network device adopts RTT-based PDC when executing S801, then the first time compensation amount can be determined according to RTT / 2.

[0237] If the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device is determined according to TA, then the third time synchronization error is the first time synchronization error. If the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device is determined according to RTT / 2, then the third time synchronization error is the second time synchronization error.

[0238] In a possible implementation scenario, for the access network device to obtain the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error, it may include: the access network device obtains the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0239] It is understandable that the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error may be different. For example, the access network device may obtain the third time synchronization error at a preset moment and obtain the fourth time synchronization error at other moments outside the preset moment, such as the second moment.

[0240] In a possible implementation, Figure 8 the provided method may further include: the access network device receives second information, where the second information is used to indicate a first period, and a preset time is determined according to the first period.

[0241] Among them, the fourth time synchronization error is a time synchronization error determined according to a second time compensation amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the acquisition methods of the first time compensation amount and the second time compensation amount are different.

[0242] If the first time compensation amount is determined according to TA, then the second time compensation amount is determined according to RTT / 2, and the fourth time synchronization error is the second time synchronization error.

[0243] If the first time compensation amount is determined according to RTT / 2, then the second time compensation amount is determined according to TA, and the fourth time synchronization error may be the first time synchronization error.

[0244] In a possible implementation, the access network device obtains a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error, including: when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than a clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error.

[0245] For the implementation principle of the clock accuracy threshold, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S701, which will not be elaborated here.

[0246] S802. The access network device determines that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0247] In a possible implementation, that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the third time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold.

[0248] S803. The access network device determines that the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and compensates the timing service for the time synchronization error according to the second time compensation amount.

[0249] That the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the fourth time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold.

[0250] For the implementation of S803, reference can be made to the existing method for compensating the time synchronization error of the timing service, which will not be elaborated here.

[0251] The second end-to-end time synchronization error includes the fourth time synchronization error.

[0252] It should be understood that in the embodiments of the present application, based on Figure 8 the provided communication method, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device cannot meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the second time compensation amount between the terminal and the access network device can meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the second time compensation amount is used to compensate the synchronization error of the timing service, so that the time synchronization error requirement of the timing service can be better guaranteed.

[0253] Figure 9 It is a schematic flow of the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application Figure 3 . In Figure 9 the shown embodiment, the access network device and the TSCTSF network element can form a communication network, and this communication network can determine information indicating that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and send the information indicating that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service to the AF network element. As Figure 9 shown, this communication method includes steps S901 to S903:

[0254] S901, the communication network obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0255] In a possible implementation, the communication network includes an access network device and a TSCTSF network element. Among them, information interaction can be carried out between the access network device and the TSCTSF network element.

[0256] In a possible implementation, the communication network obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, including: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0257] In a possible implementation, the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, which may include: the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0258] In a possible implementation, Figure 9 the provided method may further include: the access network device receives a second piece of information, where the second piece of information is used to indicate a first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

[0259] In a possible implementation,Figure 9 The provided method may further include: The access network device receives seventh information, where the seventh information is used to indicate a second period, and a preset moment is determined according to the second period.

[0260] It can be understood that the implementation principle of the seventh information can refer to the implementation principle of the first information, which will not be elaborated here.

[0261] In a possible implementation solution, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: When the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error.

[0262] Regarding the implementation principle of S901, reference can be made to the relevant introduction of S701 or S801, which will not be elaborated here.

[0263] S902, The communication network determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0264] The following describes S902 in combination with different situations.

[0265] Situation 1, S902 may include: The access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0266] In a possible implementation solution, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that: The sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device.

[0267] Situation 2, S902 includes: The TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0268] In a possible implementation, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0269] S903. The communication network sends the ninth information to the AF network element.

[0270] Among them, the ninth information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the ninth information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service process.

[0271] In case 1, S903 includes: the access network device sends the first information to the TSCTSF network element. The TSCTSF network element receives the first information from the access network device and sends the ninth information to the AF network element. Among them, the ninth information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the ninth information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service process.

[0272] It can be understood that in case 1, the ninth information can be determined according to the first information. For example, the ninth information can be the first information.

[0273] Case 2, S903 includes: the TSCTSF network element sends the ninth information to the AF network element. The ninth information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the ninth information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service process.

[0274] In case 2, Figure 9 The provided method may further include: the access network device sends the fifth information to the TSCTSF network element. Among them, the fifth information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. Among them, the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0275] In a possible implementation, before the TSCTSF network element receives the fifth information from the access network device, Figure 9 The provided method may further include: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and sends the fifth information to the TSCTSF network element.

[0276] Based on Figure 9 the provided method, when the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal in the communication network does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the communication network can send a ninth piece of information to the AF network element to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so that the AF network element can timely obtain the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and thus timely execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

[0277] For ease of understanding, the above-provided method will be described below in combination with a specific scenario. Figures 7 - 9 The provided method.

[0278] In some scenarios, the AF network element can indicate a first period, and the access network device can determine the situation of the end-to-end time synchronization error according to the first period indicated by the AF, and then feedback the situation of the end-to-end time synchronization error. In this case, the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application is as Figure 10 shown. Among them, Figure 10 the provided communication method may include S1001 to S1018:

[0279] S1001, the AF network element sends message #1 to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives message #1 from the AF network element.

[0280] For the implementation principle of message #1, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S501. The difference is that message #1 also includes information for indicating the first period, that is, the second information.

[0281] For the implementation principle of S1001, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S501, which will not be elaborated here.

[0282] S1002, the NEF network element sends message #2 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives message #2 from the NEF network element.

[0283] For the implementation principle of message #2, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S502. The difference is that message #2 also includes the second information. For the implementation principle of S1002, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S502, which will not be elaborated here.

[0284] S1003, the TSCTSF network element sends message #3 to the BSF network element. Correspondingly, the BSF network element receives message #3 from the TSCTSF network element.

[0285] For the implementation principle of Message #3, refer to the relevant introduction in S503. For the implementation principle of S1003, refer to the relevant introduction in S503, which will not be elaborated here.

[0286] S1004, the BSF network element sends Message #4 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives Message #4 from the BSF network element.

[0287] For the implementation principle of Message #4, refer to the relevant introduction in S504. For the implementation principle of S1004, refer to the relevant introduction in S504, which will not be elaborated here.

[0288] S1005, the TSCTSF network element sends an AM policy request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AM policy request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0289] For the implementation principle of the AM policy request, refer to the relevant introduction in S505. The difference is that the AM policy request also includes information for indicating the first period. For the implementation principle of S1005, refer to the relevant introduction in S505, which will not be elaborated here.

[0290] S1006, the PCF network element initiates an AM policy modification process for the terminal to the AMF network element and provides parameters for the 5G access layer time synchronization service to the AMF network element.

[0291] For the implementation principle of S1006, refer to the relevant introduction in S506, which will not be elaborated here.

[0292] S1007, the PCF network element sends an authorized service result to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the authorized service result from the PCF network element.

[0293] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, refer to the relevant introduction in S507.

[0294] S1008, the TSCTSF network element sends a timing service result to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives the timing service result from the TSCTSF network element.

[0295] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, refer to the relevant introduction in S508.

[0296] S1009, the NEF network element sends a timing service result to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the timing service result from the NEF network element.

[0297] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, refer to the relevant introduction in S509.

[0298] S1010. Correspondingly, the access network device receives Message #5 from the AMF network element.

[0299] For the implementation principle of Message #5, refer to the relevant introduction in S510.

[0300] For the implementation principles of S1007 to S1010, refer to the relevant introductions in S507 to S510, which will not be elaborated here.

[0301] S1011. The TSCTSF network element sends a subscription request to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the subscription request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0302] Among them, the subscription request is used to request to subscribe to the timing synchronization status information of the access network device. The subscription request includes an NF service identifier.

[0303] The AMF network element can subscribe to the timing synchronization status information of some or multiple access network devices according to local configuration.

[0304] For example, the local configuration may include which access network device the AMF network element belongs to or which access network device has the timing ability to report clock status information.

[0305] Among them, the subscription request can be carried in the Namf_NonUeN2InfoSubscribe message or the Namf_UeN2InfoSubscribe message.

[0306] S1012. The access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0307] Among them, the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

[0308] For example, when the access network device enables the timing service, it can start a timer. At the moment when the timing time length of the timer reaches the time length of the first period, the access network device can send a downlink measurement message or a downlink reference signal to trigger the process as described above Figure 3 or Figure 4 to obtain the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error.

[0309] For the implementation principles of the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error, refer to Figure 7In the relevant introduction of the provided method, among the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error, one is the third time synchronization error and the other is the fourth time synchronization error. That is to say, the fourth time synchronization error is the time synchronization error other than the third time synchronization error among the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error. For the implementation of the third time synchronization error and the fourth time synchronization error, reference can be made to Figure 8 the relevant introduction therein, which will not be elaborated here.

[0310] S1013, the access network device determines whether the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0311] For the implementation of S1013, reference can be made to the relevant introduction of S701. In this case, if the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, then the following S1014 to S1017 are executed.

[0312] Alternatively, for the implementation of S1013, reference can be made to the relevant introductions of S802 and S804. In this case, if the access network device determines that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, then the following S1018 is executed.

[0313] S1014, the access network device sends the first information to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the first information from the access network device.

[0314] For the implementation principle of the first information, reference can be made to the above Figure 7 relevant introduction in the provided method. It can be understood that the first information can also be Figure 9 the ninth information in the provided method. This will not be elaborated here.

[0315] Among them, the first information can be carried in the N2 message.

[0316] S1015, the AMF network element sends the first information to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the first information from the AMF network element.

[0317] Among them, the first information can be carried in the Namf_UEN2InfoNotify message.

[0318] S1016, the TSCTSF network element sends the first information to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives the first information from the TSCTSF network element.

[0319] Among them, the first piece of information can be carried in the Ntsctsf_ASTI_UpdateNotify message.

[0320] S1017, the NEF network element sends the first piece of information to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first piece of information from the NEF network element.

[0321] Among them, the first piece of information can be carried in the Nnef_ASTI_UpdateNotify message.

[0322] S1018, the access network device performs time synchronization error compensation on the timing service according to the second time compensation amount. Regarding Figure 10 The beneficial effects of the provided method can be referred to Figure 7 the beneficial effects of the provided method or Figure 10 the beneficial effects of the provided method, which will not be elaborated here.

[0323] In some scenarios, the access network device can determine the end-to-end time synchronization error situation according to the relationship between the detected clock accuracy of the access network device and the sum of the time synchronization errors of different compensation methods and the sum of the clock accuracy threshold and the time synchronization error budget, and then feedback the end-to-end time synchronization error situation. In this case, the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application is as Figure 11 shown. Among them, Figure 11 the provided communication method may include S1101 to S1119:

[0324] S1101, the AF network element sends message #1 to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF receives message #1 from the AF.

[0325] The implementation principle of message #1 can be referred to the relevant introduction in S501.

[0326] S1102, the NEF network element sends message #2 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives message #2 from the NEF network element.

[0327] The implementation principle of message #2 can be referred to the relevant introduction in S502.

[0328] S1103, the TSCTSF network element sends message #3 to the BSF network element. Correspondingly, the BSF network element receives message #3 from the TSCTSF network element.

[0329] The implementation principle of message #3 can be referred to the relevant introduction in S503.

[0330] S1104, the BSF network element sends message #4 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives message #4 from the BSF network element.

[0331] For the implementation principle of Message #4, please refer to the relevant introduction in S504.

[0332] S1105, the TSCTSF network element sends an AM policy request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AM policy request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0333] For the implementation principle of the AM policy request, please refer to the relevant introduction in S505.

[0334] S1106, the PCF network element initiates the AM policy modification process for the terminal to the AMF network element and provides the parameters of the 5G access layer time synchronization service to the AMF network element.

[0335] S1107, the PCF network element sends an authorization service result to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the authorization service result from the PCF network element.

[0336] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, please refer to the relevant introduction in S507.

[0337] S1108, the TSCTSF network element sends a timing service result to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives the timing service result from the TSCTSF network element.

[0338] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, please refer to the relevant introduction in S508.

[0339] S1109, the NEF network element sends a timing service result to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the timing service result from the NEF network element. For the implementation principle of the timing service result, please refer to the relevant introduction in S509.

[0340] S1110, the AMF network element sends Message #5 to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives Message #5 from the AMF network element.

[0341] For the implementation principle of Message #5, please refer to the relevant introduction in S509.

[0342] For the implementation principles of S1101 to S1110, please refer to the relevant introductions in S501 to S510 in sequence, which will not be elaborated here.

[0343] S1111, the TSCTSF network element sends a subscription request to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the subscription request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0344] For the implementation principle of S1111, please refer to the relevant introduction in S1011, which will not be elaborated here.

[0345] S1112, The access network device determines that the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold.

[0346] S1113, When the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error.

[0347] For example, when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device can send a downlink measurement message or a downlink reference signal to trigger the process as described above Figure 3 or Figure 4 to obtain a first time synchronization error and a second time synchronization error.

[0348] S1114, The access network device determines whether the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0349] For the implementation of S1114, reference can be made to the relevant introduction of S701. In this case, if the access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, then S1115 to S1118 are executed as follows.

[0350] Alternatively, for the implementation of S1114, reference can be made to the relevant introductions of S802 and S804. In this case, if the access network device determines that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, then S1118 below is executed.

[0351] S1115, The access network device sends a first piece of information to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the first piece of information from the access network device.

[0352] For the implementation principle of the first piece of information, reference can be made to Figure 7 in the relevant introduction. It can be understood that the first piece of information can also be Figure 9 the ninth piece of information in the provided method.

[0353] S1116, The AMF network element sends the first piece of information to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the first piece of information from the AMF network element.

[0354] S1117, The TSCTSF network element sends the first piece of information to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first piece of information from the TSCTSF network element.

[0355] S1118. The NEF network element sends the first piece of information to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the first piece of information from the NEF network element.

[0356] Among them, the first piece of information can be carried in the Nnef_ASTI_UpdateNotify message.

[0357] For the implementation principles of S1115 to S1118, reference can be made to the relevant introductions in S1014 to S1017 in sequence, which will not be elaborated here.

[0358] S1119. The access network device performs time synchronization error compensation on the timing service according to the second time compensation amount.

[0359] Among them, the fourth time synchronization error is the time synchronization error other than the third time synchronization error among the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error.

[0360] For the implementation principle of S1119, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S1018, which will not be elaborated here. Regarding Figure 11 the beneficial effects of the provided method, reference can be made to Figures 7 - 9 the beneficial effects of the method provided in, which will not be elaborated here.

[0361] In a possible embodiment, it can be determined by the TSCTSF network element whether the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error of the timing service, and in the case where the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the sixth piece of information is sent to the AF network element. This communication method may include:

[0362] S1201. The access network device sends the fifth piece of information to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the fifth piece of information from the access network device.

[0363] Among them, the fifth piece of information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0364] It should be understood that the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device indicated by the fifth piece of information can be any one or more of the possible synchronization errors between the terminal and the access network device.

[0365] In a possible design, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. That is to say, the fifth piece of information is used to indicate the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0366] In a possible design, the fifth piece of information may include the identifier of the access network device and the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0367] S1202. The TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0368] Among them, the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The sixth information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the sixth information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service.

[0369] In a possible implementation, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The fact that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0370] It can be understood that the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device may also include other time synchronization errors, such as the possible time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, which will not be elaborated here.

[0371] S1203. The TSCTSF network element sends the sixth information to the AF network element.

[0372] That is to say, when the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the TSCTSF network element sends the sixth information to the AF network element.

[0373] Based on Figure 12 the provided communication method, the TSCTSF network element can send the sixth information to the AF network element when determining that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so as to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, enabling the AF network element to obtain in a timely manner the information that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, so as to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service in a timely manner.

[0374] In addition, having the TSCTSF network element determine that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service can reduce the processing flow of the access network device.

[0375] In a possible implementation, before S1201, Figure 12 the provided method may further include: The access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. The access network device determines the fifth information according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0376] In a possible implementation, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: The access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device at a preset moment.

[0377] In a possible implementation, Figure 12 the provided method may further include: The access network device receives the seventh information, where the seventh information is used to indicate the second period, and the preset moment is determined according to the second period.

[0378] The second period may also be referred to as the PDC measurement period.

[0379] For the implementation principle of the seventh information, reference can be made to the relevant introduction of the second information. For the implementation principle of the second period, reference can be made to the relevant introduction of the first period. In addition, for the method of determining the preset moment in S1201, reference can be made to Figure 7 the relevant introduction of the preset moment in the provided method.

[0380] It should be understood that Figure 12 the preset moment in the provided method and Figure 7 the preset moment in the provided method may be the same or different.

[0381] In a possible implementation, for the access network device to obtain the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, it may include: When the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0382] In some possible embodiments, the TSCTSF network element may determine whether the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error of the timing service, and update the time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device when the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The communication method may include:

[0383] S1301, the TSCTSF network element receives the fifth information from the access network device.

[0384] Wherein, the fifth information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0385] For the implementation principle of the fifth piece of information, please refer to the relevant introduction in S1201, which will not be elaborated here.

[0386] S1302. The TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0387] Among them, the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0388] In a possible implementation solution, that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the current time synchronization error threshold used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0389] S1303. The TSCTSF network element sends the eighth piece of information to the access network device.

[0390] The eighth piece of information is used to indicate the third time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device. The third time synchronization error budget is determined by the TSCTSF network element according to the current clock accuracy of the access network device and the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The third time synchronization error budget is used to replace the second time synchronization error budget, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold that has been used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0391] Among them, the third time synchronization error budget = the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service - the current clock accuracy of the access network device. That is to say, when the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the TSCTSF network element sends the eighth piece of information to the access network device.

[0392] Based on Figure 13 the provided method, when the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the TSCTSF network element sends the eighth piece of information to the access network device to indicate the updated synchronization error budget, such as the third time synchronization error budget, to replace the old time synchronization error budget, such as the second time synchronization error budget, so as to better meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0393] In a possible implementation solution, Figure 13 the provided method may further include: the access network device receives the eighth piece of information.

[0394] The following combines with Figure 14 to illustrate the above Figure 9 , Figure 12 and Figure 13 provided methods.

[0395] In some scenarios, in this case, the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application is as Figure 14 shown. Among them, Figure 14 the provided communication method may include S1401 to S1421:

[0396] S1401, the AF network element sends message #1 to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives message #1 from the AF network element.

[0397] For the implementation principle of message #1, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S501. The difference is that message #1 also includes information for indicating the second period, that is, the seventh information.

[0398] For the implementation principle of S1401, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S501, which will not be elaborated here.

[0399] S1402, the NEF network element sends message #2 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives message #2 from the NEF network element.

[0400] For the implementation principle of message #2, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S502. For the implementation principle of S1402, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S502, which will not be elaborated here.

[0401] S1403, the TSCTSF network element sends message #3 to the BSF network element. Correspondingly, the BSF network element receives message #3 from the TSCTSF network element.

[0402] For the implementation principle of message #3, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S503. For the implementation principle of S1403, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S503, which will not be elaborated here.

[0403] S1404, the BSF network element sends message #4 to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives message #4 from the BSF network element.

[0404] For the implementation principle of message #4, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S504. For the implementation principle of S1404, reference can be made to the relevant introduction in S504, which will not be elaborated here.

[0405] S1405, the TSCTSF network element sends an AM policy request to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the AM policy request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0406] For the implementation principle of the AM policy request, refer to the relevant introduction in S505. For the implementation principle of S1405, refer to the relevant introduction in S505, which will not be elaborated here.

[0407] S1406, the PCF network element initiates the AM policy modification process of the terminal to the AMF network element and provides the parameters of the 5G access layer time synchronization service to the AMF network element.

[0408] For the implementation principle of S1406, refer to the relevant introduction in S506, which will not be elaborated here.

[0409] S1407, the PCF network element sends the authorization service result to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the authorization service result from the PCF network element.

[0410] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, refer to the relevant introduction in S507.

[0411] S1408, the TSCTSF network element sends the timing service result to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives the timing service result from the TSCTSF network element.

[0412] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, refer to the relevant introduction in S508.

[0413] S1409, the NEF network element sends the timing service result to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the timing service result from the NEF network element.

[0414] For the implementation principle of the timing service result, refer to the relevant introduction in S509.

[0415] S1410, the AMF network element sends message #5 to the access network device. Correspondingly, the access network device receives message #5 from the AMF network element.

[0416] For the implementation principle of message #5, refer to the relevant introduction in S510.

[0417] S1411, the TSCTSF network element sends a subscription request to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the subscription request from the TSCTSF network element.

[0418] Among them, for the implementation principle of the subscription request, refer to the relevant introduction in S1411. For the implementation principle of S1411, refer to the relevant introduction in S1011, which will not be elaborated here.

[0419] S1412, the access network device determines that the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold.

[0420] For the implementation principle of S1412, please refer to the relevant introduction of S1112, which will not be elaborated here.

[0421] S1413: When the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error.

[0422] For the implementation principle of S1413, please refer to the relevant introduction of S1113, which will not be elaborated here.

[0423] S1414: The access network device sends the fifth piece of information to the AMF network element. Correspondingly, the AMF network element receives the fifth piece of information from the access network device.

[0424] For the implementation of the fifth piece of information, please refer to the relevant introduction of S1201, which will not be elaborated here.

[0425] Among them, the fifth piece of information can be carried in the N2 message.

[0426] S1415: The AMF network element sends the fifth piece of information to the TSCTSF network element. Correspondingly, the TSCTSF network element receives the fifth piece of information from the AMF.

[0427] Among them, the fifth piece of information can be carried in the Namf_nonUEN2InfoNotify message.

[0428] S1416: The TSCTSF network element determines whether the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0429] If the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, then S1417 to S1419 are executed.

[0430] If the TSCTSF network element determines that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, then S1420 is executed.

[0431] S1417: The TSCTSF network element sends the eighth piece of information to the PCF network element. Correspondingly, the PCF network element receives the eighth piece of information from the TSCTSF network element.

[0432] Among them, the eighth piece of information can be carried in the Npcf_AMPolicyAuthorization_Update_request message.

[0433] S1418: The PCF network element initiates the AM policy modification process for the terminal to the AMF network element.

[0434] For the implementation principle of S1418, reference can be made to the relevant introduction of S506, which will not be elaborated here.

[0435] In S1419, the AMF network element first accesses the network device to send the eighth piece of information. Correspondingly, the network device receives the eighth piece of information from the AMF network element.

[0436] Among them, the eighth piece of information can be carried in the N2 message.

[0437] In S1420, the TSCTSF network element sends the sixth piece of information to the NEF network element. Correspondingly, the NEF network element receives the sixth piece of information from the TSCTSF network element.

[0438] Among them, the sixth piece of information can be carried in the Ntsctsf_ASTI_UpdateNotify message.

[0439] In S1421, the NEF network element sends the sixth piece of information to the AF network element. Correspondingly, the AF network element receives the sixth piece of information from the NEF network element. Among them, the sixth piece of information can be carried in the Nnef_ASTI_UpdateNotify message.

[0440] Regarding Figure 14 The beneficial effects of the provided method can be referred to Figure 7 the beneficial effects of the provided method or Figure 14 the beneficial effects of the provided method, which will not be elaborated here.

[0441] The above Figures 7 - 14 has described in detail the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application. The following Figures 15 - 16 will describe in detail the communication device for executing the communication method provided by the embodiments of the present application.

[0442] Exemplarily, Figure 15 is the structural schematic diagram of the communication device provided by the embodiments of the present application. Figure 1 As Figure 15 shown, the communication device 1500 includes: a processing module 1501 and a transceiver module 1502. For the sake of convenience of description, the figure only shows the main components of the communication device 1500.

[0443] In some embodiments, the communication device 1500 can be applicable to Figure 1 the communication system shown in Figure 7 and execute the function of the access network device in the communication method shown in

[0444] Among them, the processing module 1501 is used to determine that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service is determined according to the end-to-end time synchronization error budget in the timing request of the AF network element.

[0445] A transceiver module 1502 is configured to send a first piece of information to an AF network element. The first piece of information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the first piece of information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service process.

[0446] In a possible implementation, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that the sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the communication device 1500 is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the communication device 1500 is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the communication device 1500, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the communication device 1500, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device.

[0447] In a possible implementation, the processing module 1501 is further configured to obtain the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0448] In a possible implementation, the transceiver module 1502 is further configured to receive a second piece of information. The second piece of information is used to indicate a first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

[0449] In a possible implementation, the processing module 1501 is further configured to obtain the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error when the clock accuracy of the communication device 1500 is greater than the clock accuracy threshold.

[0450] Optionally, the transceiver module 1502 may include a receiving module and a sending module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure). The transceiver module 1502 is configured to implement the sending function and the receiving function of the communication device 1500.

[0451] Optionally, the communication device 1500 may further include a storage module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure), and the storage module stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1501 executes the programs or instructions, the communication device 1500 can execute Figure 7 the functions of the access network device in any of the communication methods shown in

[0452] It should be understood that the processing module 1501 involved in the communication device 1500 can be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components, and can be a processor or a processing unit; the transceiver module 1502 can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components, and can be a transceiver or a transceiver unit.

[0453] It should be noted that the communication device 1500 can be an access network device, or a chip (system) or other components or assemblies that can be set in the access network device, or a device including the access network device. The present application does not make any limitations in this regard.

[0454] In addition, the technical effects of the communication device 1500 can refer to Figure 7 the technical effects of the communication method shown, which will not be elaborated here.

[0455] In some other embodiments, the communication device 1500 can be applied to Figure 1 the communication system shown in Figure 7 and perform the functions of the TSCTSF network element in the communication method shown.

[0456] Among them, the processing module 1501 is used to receive the first information from the access network device through the transceiver module 1502.

[0457] Among them, the first information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the first information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service.

[0458] The processing module 1501 is further used to send the first information to the AF network element through the transceiver module 1502.

[0459] In a possible implementation solution, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means that: the sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. Among them, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device.

[0460] Optionally, the transceiver module 1502 may include a receiving module and a sending module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure). Among them, the transceiver module 1502 is used to implement the sending function and receiving function of the communication device 1500.

[0461] Optionally, the communication device 1500 may further include a storage module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure), which stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1501 executes the programs or instructions, the communication device 1500 can perform Figure 7 the functions of the TSCTSF network element in the communication method shown.

[0462] It should be understood that the processing module 1501 involved in the communication device 1500 may be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components, and may be a processor or a processing unit; the transceiver module 1502 may be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components, and may be a transceiver or a transceiver unit.

[0463] It should be noted that the communication device 1500 may be a TSCTSF network element, or a chip (system) or other components or assemblies that can be set in the TSCTSF network element, or a device including the TSCTSF network element. The present application does not make any limitations in this regard.

[0464] In addition, the technical effects of the communication device 1500 can refer to Figure 7 the technical effects of the communication method shown, which will not be elaborated here.

[0465] In some other embodiments, the communication device 1500 is applicable to Figure 1 the communication system shown in Figure 8 and performs the functions of the access network device in the communication method shown.

[0466] Among them, the transceiver module 1502 is used to obtain a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error. The third time synchronization error is a time synchronization error determined according to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the communication device 1500, and the first end-to-end time synchronization error includes the third time synchronization error. The fourth time synchronization error is a time synchronization error determined according to the second time compensation amount between the terminal and the communication device 1500, and the acquisition methods of the first time compensation amount and the second time compensation amount are different.

[0467] The processing module 1501 is used to determine that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0468] The processing module 1501 is further used to determine that the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and perform time synchronization error compensation on the timing service according to the compensation method corresponding to the fourth time compensation amount. The second end-to-end time synchronization error includes the fourth time synchronization error.

[0469] In a possible implementation, the processing module 1501 is further configured to obtain a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error at a preset moment.

[0470] In a possible implementation, the transceiver module 1502 is further configured to receive a second piece of information. The second piece of information is used to indicate a first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

[0471] In a possible implementation, the processing module 1501 is further configured to obtain a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error when the clock accuracy of the communication device 1500 is greater than a clock accuracy threshold.

[0472] In a possible implementation, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the communication device 1500, and the second time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the communication device 1500. Alternatively, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the communication device 1500, and the second time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the communication device 1500.

[0473] In a possible implementation, the end-to-end time synchronization error of the terminal corresponding to the first end-to-end time synchronization error does not meet the end-to-end requirement of the time service, including: the sum of the third time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the communication device 1500 is less than or equal to the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold. The end-to-end time synchronization error of the terminal corresponding to the second end-to-end time synchronization error meets the end-to-end requirement of the time service, including: the sum of the fourth time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the communication device 1500 is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold.

[0474] Optionally, the transceiver module 1502 may include a receiving module and a transmitting module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure). The transceiver module 1502 is configured to implement the transmitting function and the receiving function of the communication device 1500.

[0475] Optionally, the communication device 1500 may further include a storage module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure), and the storage module stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1501 executes the programs or instructions, the communication device 1500 can perform Figure 8 the functions of the access network device in the communication method shown.

[0476] It should be understood that the processing module 1501 involved in the communication device 1500 may be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components, and may be a processor or a processing unit; the transceiver module 1502 may be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components, and may be a transceiver or a transceiver unit.

[0477] It should be noted that the communication device 1500 can be an access network device, a chip (system) or other components or assemblies that can be set in the access network device, or a device including the access network device. This application does not make any limitations in this regard.

[0478] In addition, for the technical effects of the communication device 1500, reference can be made to Figure 8 the technical effects of the communication method shown, which will not be elaborated here.

[0479] In some other embodiments, the communication device 1500 can be applicable to Figure 1 the communication system shown in Figure 12 and perform the functions of the TSCTSF network element in the communication method shown.

[0480] Among them, the transceiver module 1502 is used to receive the fifth piece of information from the access network device.

[0481] Among them, the fifth piece of information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0482] The processing module 1501 is used to generate the sixth piece of information. The sixth piece of information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The sixth piece of information is used by the AF network element to determine the process of deactivating the timing service or modifying the timing service process.

[0483] The processing module 1501 is further used to send the sixth piece of information to the AF network element when it is determined that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. Among them, the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0484] In a possible implementation solution, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device is greater than the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0485] Optionally, the transceiver module 1502 may include a receiving module and a sending module ( Figure 15 not shown in

[0486] ). Among them, the transceiver module 1502 is used to implement the sending function and receiving function of the communication device 1500. Optionally, the communication device 1500 may further include a storage module (Figure 15 (not shown in the figure), and the storage module stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1501 executes the programs or instructions, the communication device 1500 can execute Figure 12 the functions of the TSCTSF network element in the communication method shown.

[0487] It should be understood that the processing module 1501 involved in the communication device 1500 can be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components, and can be a processor or a processing unit; the transceiver module 1502 can be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components, and can be a transceiver or a transceiver unit.

[0488] It should be noted that the communication device 1500 can be a TSCTSF network element, or a chip (system) or other components or assemblies that can be set in the TSCTSF network element, or a device that includes the TSCTSF network element. This application does not make any limitations in this regard.

[0489] In addition, the technical effects of the communication device 1500 can refer to Figure 12 the technical effects of the communication method shown, which will not be elaborated here. In some other embodiments, the communication device 1500 can be applied to Figure 1 the communication system shown in Figure 13 and execute the functions of the TSCTSF network element in the communication method shown in

[0490] Among them, the transceiver module 1502 is used to receive the fifth information from the access network device.

[0491] Among them, the fifth information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0492] The processing module 1501 is used to generate the eighth information. The eighth information is used to indicate the third time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device. The third time synchronization error budget is determined by the communication device 1500 according to the current clock accuracy of the access network device and the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The third time synchronization error budget is used to replace the second time synchronization error budget, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold that has been used between the terminal and the access network device.

[0493] The transceiver module 1502 is further used to send the eighth information to the access network device when it is determined that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service.

[0494] Among them, the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

[0495] In a possible implementation, the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, where the second time synchronization error budget is the current time synchronization error threshold between the terminal and the access network device.

[0496] Optionally, the transceiver module 1502 may include a receiving module and a transmitting module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure). Among them, the transceiver module 1502 is used to implement the sending function and receiving function of the communication device 1500.

[0497] Optionally, the communication device 1500 may further include a storage module ( Figure 15 not shown in the figure), and the storage module stores programs or instructions. When the processing module 1501 executes the program or instruction, the communication device 1500 can execute Figure 13 the functions of the TSCTSF network element in the communication method shown in any one of the above.

[0498] It should be understood that the processing module 1501 involved in the communication device 1500 may be implemented by a processor or processor-related circuit components, and may be a processor or a processing unit; the transceiver module 1502 may be implemented by a transceiver or transceiver-related circuit components, and may be a transceiver or a transceiver unit.

[0499] It should be noted that the communication device 1500 may be a TSCTSF network element, or a chip (system) or other components or assemblies that can be set in the TSCTSF network element, or a device including the TSCTSF network element. The present application does not limit this.

[0500] In addition, the technical effects of the communication device 1500 can refer to Figure 13 the technical effects of the communication methods shown in any one of the above, and will not be elaborated here.

[0501] Exemplarily, Figure 16 is a schematic structural diagram of the communication device provided in the embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 This communication device may be a terminal device or a network device, or a chip (system) or other components or assemblies that can be set in the terminal device or the network device. As Figure 16 shown, the communication device 1600 may include a processor 1601. Optionally, the communication device 1600 may further include a memory 1602 and / or a transceiver 1603. Among them, the processor 1601 is coupled to the memory 1602 and the transceiver 1603, and may be connected through a communication bus, for example.

[0502] Next, in combination with Figure 16Specifically introduce each component of the communication device 1600:

[0503] Among them, the processor 1601 is the control center of the communication device 1600, which can be a single processor or a collective term for multiple processing elements. For example, the processor 1601 is one or more central processing units (CPUs), or can be an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or one or more integrated circuits configured to implement the embodiments of the present application. For example: one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), or one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs).

[0504] Optionally, the processor 1601 can execute various functions of the communication device 1600 by running or executing software programs stored in the memory 1602 and calling data stored in the memory 1602.

[0505] In a specific implementation, as an embodiment, the processor 1601 may include one or more CPUs, such as Figure 16 the CPU0 and CPU1 shown in

[0506] In a specific implementation, as an embodiment, the communication device 1600 may also include multiple processors, such as Figure 16 the processor 1601 and the processor 1604 shown in

[0507] Each of these processors can be a single-core processor (single-CPU) or a multi-core processor (multi-CPU). Here, the processor can refer to one or more devices, circuits, and / or processing cores for processing data (such as computer program instructions).

[0508] Optionally, the memory 1602 may be a read-only memory (ROM) or other type of static storage device that can store static information and instructions, a random access memory (RAM) or other type of dynamic storage device that can store information and instructions, or may also be an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or other optical disc storage, optical disc storage (including compact discs, laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs, Blu-ray discs, etc.), magnetic disk storage media, or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store the desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and can be accessed by a computer, but is not limited thereto. The memory 1602 may be integrated with the processor 1601 or may exist independently and be coupled to the processor 1601 through the interface circuit of the communication device 1600 ( Figure 16 not shown in the figure), and the embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0509] The transceiver 1603 is used for communication with other communication devices. For example, when the communication device 1600 is a terminal device, the transceiver 1603 may be used for communication with a network device or with another terminal device. For another example, when the communication device 1600 is a network device, the transceiver 1603 may be used for communication with a terminal device or with another network device.

[0510] Optionally, the transceiver 1603 may include a receiver and a transmitter ( Figure 16 not shown separately in the figure). Among them, the receiver is used to implement the receiving function, and the transmitter is used to implement the transmitting function.

[0511] Optionally, the transceiver 1603 may be integrated with the processor 1601 or may exist independently and be coupled to the processor 1601 through the interface circuit of the communication device 1600 ( Figure 16 not shown in the figure), and the embodiments of the present application do not make specific limitations in this regard.

[0512] It should be noted that Figure 16 the structure of the communication device 1600 shown in the figure does not constitute a limitation on the communication device. The actual communication device may include more or fewer components than shown in the figure, or combine certain components, or have different component arrangements.

[0513] In addition, the technical effects of the communication device 1600 may refer to the technical effects of the communication method described in the above method embodiments, and will not be elaborated here.

[0514] It should be understood that the processor in the embodiments of the present application may be a CPU, and the processor may also be other general-purpose processors, DSPs, ASICs, FPGAs or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, discrete hardware components, etc. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or the processor may also be any conventional processor, etc.

[0515] It should also be understood that the memory in the embodiments of the present application may be a volatile memory or a non-volatile memory, or may include both volatile and non-volatile memories. Among them, the non-volatile memory may be a ROM, a programmable read-only memory (PROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an EEPROM or a flash memory. The volatile memory may be a RAM, which is used as an external cache. By way of example but not limitation, many forms of RAM are available, such as static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), enhanced synchronous dynamic random access memory (ESDRAM), synchlink DRAM (SLDRAM), and direct rambus RAM (DR RAM).

[0516] The above embodiments can be implemented in whole or in part by software, hardware (such as circuits), firmware, or any other combination. When implemented using software, the above embodiments can be implemented in whole or in part in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer instructions or computer programs. When the computer instructions or computer programs are loaded or executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of the present application are generated in whole or in part. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable devices. The computer instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center by wired (such as infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer or a data storage device such as a server or a data center that contains one or more collections of available media. The available media can be magnetic media (such as floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (such as DVDs), or semiconductor media. The semiconductor media can be a solid-state drive.

[0517] It should be understood that the term "and / or" in this document is merely a description of the association relationship between associated objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, A and / or B can represent: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, and B exists alone. Here, A and B can be singular or plural. In addition, the character " / " in this document generally represents an "or" relationship between the associated objects before and after, but it may also represent an "and / or" relationship, which can be specifically understood with reference to the context.

[0518] In this application, "at least one" means one or more, and "a plurality" means two or more. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single items or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, a - b, a - c, b - c, or a - b - c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0519] It should be understood that in various embodiments of the present application, the sequence numbers of the above processes do not imply the order of execution. The order of execution of each process should be determined by its function and internal logic, and should not constitute any limitation to the implementation process of the embodiments of the present application.

[0520] Those of ordinary skill in the art can realize that the units and algorithm steps of each example described in combination with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented by electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are executed in a hardware or software manner depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Skilled professionals can use different methods for each specific application to implement the described functions, but such implementation should not be considered to exceed the scope of this application.

[0521] Those skilled in the art can clearly understand that for the convenience and brevity of description, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can refer to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments and will not be elaborated herein.

[0522] In several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, devices, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of the units is only a logical function division, and there can be other division methods in actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Another point is that the displayed or discussed couplings or direct couplings or communication connections to each other can be through some interfaces, and the indirect couplings or communication connections of the devices or units can be in electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0523] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separated, and the components displayed as units may or may not be physical units, that is, they can be located in one place, or distributed to multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected according to actual needs to achieve the purpose of the solution of this embodiment.

[0524] In addition, the functional units in each embodiment of this application can be integrated in a processing unit, or each unit can exist physically alone, or two or more units can be integrated in one unit.

[0525] When the above-mentioned functions are implemented in the form of software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-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 a part of this 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 for causing a computer device (which may be a personal computer, a server, or a network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes: various media that can store program codes, such as USB flash drives, mobile hard disks, ROM, RAM, magnetic disks, or optical discs.

[0526] As described above, the above are only specific implementation manners of this application, but the protection scope of this application is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed by this application can easily think of changes or substitutions, and all should be covered by the protection scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of this application should be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A communication method, characterized in that, the method includes: The access network device determines that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service; The access network device sends a first piece of information to the application network element, where the first piece of information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the first piece of information is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service means: The sum of the first time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the sum of the second time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold; wherein, the first time synchronization error budget is the threshold of the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the first time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the second time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, the method includes: The access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error at a preset moment.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, the method further includes: The access network device receives a second piece of information, where the second piece of information is used to indicate a first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

5. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, the method further includes: When the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the first time synchronization error and the second time synchronization error.

6. A communication method, characterized in that, the method includes: The access network device obtains a third time synchronization error and a fourth time synchronization error, and determines that the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service. The third time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the first time compensation amount between the current terminal and the access network device, and the first end-to-end time synchronization error includes the third time synchronization error; wherein, the fourth time synchronization error is the time synchronization error determined according to the second time compensation amount between the terminal and the access network device, and the acquisition methods of the first time compensation amount and the second time compensation amount are different; The access network device determines that the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and compensates the timing service for the time synchronization error according to the second time compensation amount. The second end-to-end time synchronization error includes the fourth time synchronization error.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein, the access network device obtains a third time synchronization error, including: the access network device obtains the third time synchronization error at a preset moment.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, the method further includes: the access network device receives second information, where the second information is used to indicate a first period, and the preset moment is determined according to the first period.

9. The method according to claim 6, wherein, the access network device obtains a third time synchronization error, including: when the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than a clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the third time synchronization error.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6-9, wherein, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device; the second time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device; or, the first time compensation amount is determined according to the round-trip delay between the terminal and the access network device; the second time compensation amount is determined according to the time advance amount between the terminal and the access network device.

11. The method according to any one of claims 6-10, wherein, the first end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: the sum of the third time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold.

12. The method according to any one of claims 6-11, wherein, the second end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, including: the sum of the fourth time synchronization error and the clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the first time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold.

13. A communication method, wherein, the method includes: a time-sensitive communication and a time synchronization network element receive fifth information from an access network device; where the fifth information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device. When it is determined that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal by the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element sends a sixth piece of information to the application function network element, where the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the sixth piece of information is used to indicate that the end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, and the sixth piece of information is used by the application network element to determine to execute the process of deactivating the timing service or modify the process of the timing service.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; that the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal does not meet the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, before the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receives the fifth piece of information from the access network device, the method further includes: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; the access network device sends the fifth piece of information to the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the access network device obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes: the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device at a preset moment.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, the method further includes: the access network device receives a seventh piece of information; wherein the seventh piece of information is used to indicate a second period, and the preset moment is determined according to the second period.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein, the access network device obtaining the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device includes: when the current clock accuracy of the access network device is greater than the clock accuracy threshold, the access network device obtains the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device.

19. A communication method, wherein, the method includes: the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element receives a fifth piece of information from the access network device; wherein the fifth piece of information is used to indicate the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device; When the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal determined by the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element meets the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element sends the eighth information to the access network device, where the third end-to-end time synchronization error is determined according to the time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device, the eighth information is used to indicate the third time synchronization error budget between the terminal and the access network device, the third time synchronization error budget is determined by the time-sensitive communication and time synchronization network element according to the current clock accuracy of the access network device and the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service, the third time synchronization error budget is used to replace the second time synchronization error budget, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold already used between the terminal and the access network device.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, the third end-to-end time synchronization error corresponding to the terminal meeting the end-to-end time synchronization error requirement of the timing service includes: the sum of the minimum time synchronization error between the terminal and the access network device and the current clock accuracy of the access network device is less than or equal to the sum of the second time synchronization error budget and the clock accuracy threshold, and the second time synchronization error budget is the time synchronization error threshold currently used between the terminal and the access network device.

21. A communication device, wherein, the communication device is used to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1-14, or 19, or 20.

22. A communication device, wherein, comprising: a processor and a memory; the memory is used to store computer instructions, and when the processor executes the instructions, the communication device is enabled to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1-14, or 19, or 20.

23. A communication device, wherein, comprising: a processor and an interface circuit; wherein, the interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor; the processor is used to run the code instructions to execute the method according to any one of claims 1-14, or 19, or 20.

24. A communication device, wherein, the communication device includes a processor and a transceiver, the transceiver is used for information interaction between the communication device and other communication devices, and the processor executes program instructions to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1-14, or 19, or 20.

25. A computer-readable storage medium, wherein, the computer-readable storage medium includes a computer program or instructions, and when the computer program or instructions run on a computer, the computer is enabled to execute the communication method according to any one of claims 1-14, or 19, or 20.

26. A computer program product, wherein, The computer program product includes: a computer program or instructions which, when run on a computer, cause the computer to execute the communication method as recited in any one of claims 1-14, or 19, or 20.

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