Apparatus and method for transmitting synchronization information in a communication system - Patents.com

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a communication technique and system for integrating a 5G communication system with IoT technology to support a higher data transmission rate after the 4G system. The present disclosure is applicable to intelligent services (e.g., smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart cars or connected cars, healthcare, digital education, retail, security and safety-related services, etc.) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for extending a function for supporting a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) in a 5G system (5GS) of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) and providing time synchronization between terminals connected by wire or wirelessly.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a communication system, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for extending a function to support a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) in a 5G system (5GS) of the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) and providing time synchronization between terminals connected by wire or wirelessly. [Background technology]

[0002] Since the commercialization of 4G communication systems, efforts have been made to develop improved 5G or pre-5G communication systems to meet the ever-increasing demand for wireless data traffic. For this reason, 5G or pre-5G communication systems are referred to as beyond-4G network (Beyond 4G Network) or post-LTE (Post-LTE) systems. To achieve high data transmission rates, 5G communication systems are being considered for implementation in ultra-high frequency (mmWave) bands (e.g., the 60 GHz band). To mitigate radio wave path loss and increase radio wave propagation distance in ultra-high frequency bands, beamforming, massive MIMO, full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antennas, analog beamforming, and large scale antenna technologies are being discussed for 5G communication systems. In addition, to improve the system's network, technologies being developed for 5G communication systems include advanced small cells, improved small cells, cloud radio access networks (cloud RAN), ultra-dense networks, device-to-device communication (D2D), wireless backhaul, moving networks, cooperative communication, CoMP (Coordinated Multi-Points), and interference cancellation.In addition, 5G systems are being developed with advanced coding modulation (ACM) methods such as FQAM (Hybrid FSK and QAM Modulation) and SWSC (Sliding Window Superposition Coding), as well as advanced connection technologies such as FBMC (Filter Bank Multi Carrier), NOMA (non-orthogonal multiple access), and SCMA (sparse code multiple access).

[0003] Meanwhile, the Internet is evolving from a human-centered network where humans generate and consume information to an IoT (Internet of Things) network where information is exchanged and processed among distributed components such as objects. IoE (Internet of Everything) technology, which combines IoT with big data processing technology using connections to cloud servers, is also emerging. To realize IoT, technological elements such as sensing technology, wired and wireless communication and network infrastructure, service interface technology, and security technology are required. Recent research has focused on sensor networks for connecting objects, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, and machine-type communication (MTC). In an IoT environment, intelligent IT (Internet Technology) services can be provided that create new value in people's lives by collecting and analyzing data generated between connected objects. By integrating and combining existing IT (information technology) with various industries, IoT can be applied to areas such as smart homes, smart buildings, smart cities, smart or connected cars, smart grids, healthcare, smart home appliances, and advanced medical services.

[0004] Therefore, various attempts are being made to apply 5G communication systems to IoT networks. For example, technologies such as sensor networks, machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, and MTC (machine-type communication) are being implemented using 5G communication techniques such as beamforming, MIMO, and array antennas. The application of cloud radio access networks (cloud RAN) as a big data processing technology is also an example of the integration of 5G and IoT technologies.

[0005] The above information is provided solely as background information to aid in the understanding of the present disclosure. No determination or assertion has been made that any of the above is applicable as prior art in connection with the present disclosure. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] When a 3GPP (registered trademark) network (or 5GS) acts as a synchronization source and a NW-TT (Network-Side TSN Translator) or DS-TT (Device-Side TSN Translator) generates a (g)PTP (generic Precision Time Protocol) message and transmits it to external wired and wireless nodes, it must decide whether to transmit the (g)PTP message within the 3GPP network or 5GS. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a method performed by a terminal including a Device-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (DS-TT) in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The method may include receiving, from a first network functional entity via a base station, time synchronization information related to a 5th Generation System (5GS) capability for supporting time synchronization of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system, the time synchronization information including first information indicating a time synchronization capability of the DS-TT as a Grand Master (GM) and second information on a transmission type for distributing time synchronization; generating a first synchronization message based on the time synchronization information; and transmitting the first synchronization message for time synchronization to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of the TSN system based on the transmission type.

[0008] In the method, the transmission type may be associated with one of gPTP (generic PTP) or PTP.

[0009] In the method, the first network function entity may include at least one of a TSN Application Function (TSN AF) entity or a Network Exposure Function (NEF) entity.

[0010] The method may further include a step of sending a second synchronization message for time synchronization based on the first synchronization message to a second network function entity including a NW-TT (Network-Side TSN Translator) in 5GS, wherein the second synchronization message may include an entry timestamp corresponding to an entry time when the first synchronization message is generated and a rate ratio set to 1.

[0011] In the method, a third synchronization message is sent to an external PTP port of the TSN system based on the second synchronization message, and the third synchronization message may include an exit timestamp corresponding to an exit time when the third synchronization message is sent and a residence time calculated as the difference between the entry time and the exit time.

[0012] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method performed by a second network functional entity including a Network-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (NW-TT) in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The method may include receiving, from a first network functional entity, time synchronization information related to a 5th Generation System (5GS) capability for supporting time synchronization of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system, the time synchronization information including first information related to a time synchronization capability of the NW-TT as a Grand Master (GM) and second information on a transmission type for distributing time synchronization; generating a first synchronization message based on the time synchronization information; and transmitting the first synchronization message for time synchronization to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of the TSN system based on the transmission type.

[0013] In the method, the transmission type may be associated with one of gPTP (generic PTP) or PTP.

[0014] In the method, the first network function entity may include at least one of a TSN Application Function (TSN AF) entity or a Network Exposure Function (NEF) entity.

[0015] The method may further include transmitting a second synchronization message for time synchronization based on the first synchronization message to a terminal including a Device-Side TSN translator (DS-TT), wherein the second synchronization message may include an entrance timestamp corresponding to an entrance time when the first synchronization message is generated and a rate ratio set to 1.

[0016] In the method, a third synchronization message is sent to an external PTP port of the TSN system based on the second synchronization message, and the third synchronization message may include an exit timestamp corresponding to an exit time when the third synchronization message is sent and a residence time calculated as the difference between the entry time and the exit time.

[0017] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a terminal including a Device-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (DS-TT) in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The terminal may include: a transceiver unit configured to transmit and receive signals; and a controller coupled to the transceiver unit configured to receive time synchronization information related to a 5th Generation System (5GS) capability for supporting time synchronization of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system from a first network functional entity via a base station, the time synchronization information including first information indicating a capability for time synchronization of the DS-TT as a Grand Master (GM), and second information on a transmission type for distributing time synchronization; generating a first synchronization message based on the time synchronization information; and transmitting the first synchronization message for time synchronization to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of the TSN system based on the transmission type.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a second network functional entity including a Network-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (NW-TT) in a wireless communication system is disclosed. The second network functional entity may include: a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals; and a controller coupled to the transceiver for receiving from a first network functional entity time synchronization information related to a 5th Generation System (5GS) capability for supporting time synchronization of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system, the time synchronization information including first information related to the time synchronization capability of the NW-TT as a Grand Master (GM) and second information on a transmission type for distributing time synchronization; generating a first synchronization message based on the time synchronization information, and transmitting the first synchronization message for time synchronization to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of the TSN system based on the transmission type. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] According to the present disclosure, by reducing the generation of unnecessary (g)PTP message traffic within 5GS, the load on the terminal / network can be reduced and the current consumption of the terminal can be reduced.

[0020] Furthermore, according to the present disclosure, 5GS synchronization can be provided to applications that do not support TSN, such as VIAPA (Video Image Audio Professional Application).

[0021] In particular, it provides time synchronization in different domains for each DS-TT and NW-TT port, and provides synchronization with synchronization precision in individual synchronization message types, thereby supporting environments requiring various time synchronization.

[0022] For example, 5GS can provide 1 μs synchronization between wired networks for factory automation and 100 μs synchronization between wireless terminals for audio services.

[0023] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure and advantages, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals indicate like parts and in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] This is a conceptual diagram showing the principle of time synchronization on Ethernet in TSN. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a scenario for supporting TSN time synchronization in a 5G network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a method for supporting TSN time synchronization in a 5G network. [Figure 4] A conceptual diagram showing a method in which a NW-TT generates a synchronization message and provides synchronization to a node located outside 5GS in a communication system relating to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] A conceptual diagram showing a method in which DS-TT generates a synchronization message and provides synchronization to nodes located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] A conceptual diagram showing a method in which NW-TT and DS-TT each generate synchronization messages in a communication system relating to one embodiment of the present disclosure and provide synchronization to nodes located outside 5GS. [Figure 7] A conceptual diagram showing a configuration method for setting 5GS as a synchronization source in a communication system relating to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] A flowchart showing the signal flow for a NW-TT to generate a synchronization message and provide synchronization to a node located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing the signal flow for DS-TT to generate a synchronization message and provide synchronization to nodes located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] A flowchart showing the signal flow for DS-TT to generate a synchronization message and provide synchronization to a node located outside 5GS when a terminal-to-terminal (UE-to-UE) transmission section is included in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] A flowchart showing the signal flow for NW-TT and DS-TT to each generate synchronization messages and provide synchronization to nodes located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] A flowchart showing the signal flow for NW-TT and DS-TT to generate identically configured synchronization messages in a communication system relating to one embodiment of the present disclosure and provide synchronization to nodes located outside 5GS. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of an NF (network function) entity according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a TSN node according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Prior to the detailed description below, it is advantageous to provide definitions of certain words and phrases used throughout this patent document. The term "or" is inclusive and means and / or. The terms "associated with" and "associated with," and their derivatives, include, include, include, interconnected with, contain, contained in, coupled to or with, coupled to or with, communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose, adjacent to, bonded to or with, have, have an attribute of, and the like; the term "controller" means any device, system, or portion thereof that controls at least one operation, and such device may be embodied in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination of at least two thereof. The functionality associated with a particular controller may be centralized or distributed, whether locally or remotely.

[0026] Additionally, various functions described below may be implemented or supported by one or more computer programs configured as computer-readable program code and embodied in a computer-readable medium. The terms "application program" and "program" refer to one or more computer programs, software components, instruction sets, procedures, functions, individuals, classes, instances, associated data, or portions thereof configured to be embodied in a suitable computer-readable program. The phrase "computer-readable program code" includes any type of computer code, including source code, object code, and executable code. The phrase "computer-readable medium" includes read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), hard disk drives, compact discs (CDs), digital video discs (DVDs), or other types of memory. It also includes any type of medium accessible by a computer, such as digital discs. "Non-transitory" computer-readable medium excludes wired, wireless, optical, or other communication links that transmit transient electrical or other signals. Non-transitory computer-readable media include media that allow for permanent storage of data, such as rewritable optical disks or erasable memory devices, and media on which data can be stored and later overwritten.

[0027] Definitions for particular words and phrases are provided throughout this patent document, and those skilled in the art should understand that in many, if not most, cases, such definitions apply to prior as well as future uses of the defined words and phrases.

[0028] 1-16 discussed below and in this patent document, the various embodiments used to explain the principles of the present disclosure are merely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed in any way as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present disclosure may be embodied in any suitably arranged system or device.

[0029] The operating principles of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. When describing the present invention below, if a detailed description of related known functions or configurations is deemed to obscure the gist of the present invention, such detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, the terms used below are defined in consideration of the functions of the present invention, and may vary depending on the intentions or practices of users or operators. Therefore, the definitions should be based on the overall content of this specification.

[0030] It will be understood that in this disclosure, each block in the flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations, may be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded into a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that the instructions, when executed by the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing device, create means having the functions described in the flowchart blocks. These computer program instructions may also be stored in computer-usable or computer-readable memory addressable by the computer or other programmable data processing device to implement the functions in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-usable or computer-readable memory may produce an article of manufacture incorporating instruction means for performing the functions described in the flowchart blocks. The computer program instructions may be embodied on a computer or other programmable data processing device such that a series of operational steps are performed on the computer or other programmable data processing device to create a computer-implemented process, and the instructions that cause the computer or other programmable data processing device to execute may provide steps to perform the functions described in the flowchart blocks.

[0031] Also, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code that includes one or more executable instructions for performing the specified logical function. Also, it should be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of order. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be performed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may sometimes be performed in reverse order depending on the function in question.

[0032] The term "module" as used in this disclosure refers to software or hardware components such as FPGAs or ASICs, each performing a specific function. However, the term "module" is not limited to software or hardware. A "module" may reside on an addressable storage medium or be configured to execute one or more processors. Thus, for example, a "module" includes components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, as well as processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, program code segments, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. The components and functionality provided by the "modules" may be combined into fewer components or "modules" or separated into a larger number of components or "modules." Furthermore, components and "modules" may be embodied to execute one or more CPUs within a device or a secure multimedia card.

[0033] In the following description, terms for identifying connection nodes, terms representing network entities, terms representing messages, terms representing interfaces between network objects, terms representing various identification information, etc. are provided as examples for the convenience of explanation. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the terms described below, and other terms representing objects having equivalent technical meanings may be used.

[0034] For ease of explanation, the present invention will use terms and names defined in the 5GS and NR standards, which are the latest standards defined by the 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) among existing communication standards. However, the present invention is not limited to these terms and names and may be equally applied to wireless communication networks conforming to other standards. In particular, the present invention is applicable to 3GPP 5GS / NR (5th generation mobile communication standard).

[0035] For ease of explanation, in the present disclosure, entities exchanging information for connection control and state management will be collectively referred to as NFs. NFs may include, for example, an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) device, a Session Management Function (SMF) device, a Policy and Charging Function (PCF) device, a TSN Application Function (TSN) device, or similar devices for functioning on a core network. Furthermore, the embodiments of the present disclosure are equally applicable to cases where NFs are actually embodied as instances (e.g., AMF instance, SMF instance, NSSF instance, etc.).

[0036] In this disclosure, an instance can refer to a state in which a specific NF exists in the form of software code and is executable by receiving allocation of physical or / and logical resources from a computer system to perform the functions of the NF in a physical computer system, for example, a specific computer system present on a core network. Therefore, all NF instances, such as an AMF instance and an SMF instance, can each refer to something that can receive and use allocation of physical or / and logical resources for NF operation from a specific computer system present on the core network. As a result, when an NF device such as a physical AMF or SMF exists, an NF instance that receives and uses allocation of physical or / and logical resources for NF operation from a specific computer system present on the network can perform the same operation.

[0037] Time synchronization of related nodes is necessary to support scenarios such as factory automation. High accuracy in time synchronization is especially required in situations requiring precision work. When using Ethernet for industrial applications, Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) technology, which supports time synchronization between nodes connected via Ethernet, has been researched and commercialized.

[0038] Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram showing the principle of time synchronization on TSN Ethernet.

[0039] Referring to Figure 1, a TSN node can determine a reference Grand Master (GM). For example, TSN Node 0 can generate a Sync Frame by entering the current time of the GM in the timestamp field and entering 0 in the correction field, and then transmit the Sync Frame to the next node. The next node, TSN Node 1, receives the Sync Frame reflecting Link Delay 1, updates the Correction field by taking into account Residence Time 1, the time the frame spent at its own node, and then transmits the Sync Frame to the next node. The next node, TSN Node 2, receives the Sync Frame reflecting Link Delay 2, updates the Correction field by taking into account Residence Time 2, the time the frame spent at its own node, and then transmits the Sync Frame to the next node. Each node can periodically measure the delay time for links with previous nodes and calculate the average. Each node can also calculate the residence time within its own node.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a scenario for supporting TSN time synchronization in a 5G network according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] Referring to Figure 2, a 5G network can support TSN in a factory automation scenario that supports mobility by applying a 5G network. Referring to Figure 2, a controller B in a factory network connected to an external TSN node can issue a command to an actuator A in the factory through a 3GPP network. In this case, the 3GPP network, i.e., 5GS, can act as a TSN bridge and provide time synchronization to the actuator. Therefore, the 3GPP network in Figure 2 can be understood to correspond to TSN Node 1 in Figure 1, and actuator A can be understood to correspond to TSN Node 2 in Figure 1.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a method for supporting TSN time synchronization in a 5G network.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 3, in a method for a 5G network to support TSN in the situation of FIG. 2, the 5G network may be modeled as a single TSN bridge (TSN node) in FIG. 1. For example, in a 5G network, a User Plane Function (UPF), a gNB, and a UE are a single TSN node, and TSN can be supported by correcting link delay and residence time and updating a synchronization frame. To this end, it is assumed that the UPF, gNB, and UE within the 5G network are synchronized to a common 5G GM. For example, the gNB is connected to a Global Positioning System (GPS), the UPF may be connected to the gNB via Ethernet-based TSN and synchronize with the gNB, and the UE may be synchronized with the gNB through a process of transmitting and receiving physical (PHY) frames (DL / UL synchronization). The UPF may be connected to a TSN node in a wired network, and the UE may also be connected to a TSN node in a wired network. In the example of FIG. 3, since the TSN GM is located in a TSN node connected to the UPF, the UPF can receive a synchronization frame from the previous TSN node. The UPF can record the time of the received synchronization frame based on the 5G GM as the ingress time. The UPF can periodically calculate the link delay with the previous TSN node. The UPF can deliver a synchronization frame including the ingress time and link delay to the UE. When the UE sends a synchronization frame to the next TSN node, the UE can calculate the residence time, which is the time spent in the 5G network, by setting the time based on the 5G GM as the egress time. The residence time can be calculated as the difference between the egress time and the ingress time (Residence Time = Egress Time - Ingress Time).The UE can update the Correction field using the Residence Time and Link Delay and send a Sync Frame to the next TSN node.

[0044] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing a method in which a NW-TT generates a synchronization message and provides synchronization to a node located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 4, the NW-TT may generate a synchronization message and transmit it in the direction of the connected wired node. At this time, the time stamp of the synchronization message may indicate the time when the synchronization message was generated. At the same time, the NW-TT may perform an operation of receiving a TSN synchronization message as shown in FIG. 3. Here, a description of the same operations as in FIG. 3 will be omitted. The NW-TT may input the time when the synchronization message was generated into an ingress time field and then transmit the synchronization message to the DS-TT. At this time, the link delay included in the correction field may be 0. The DS-TT may determine the residence time, which is the time the synchronization message resides in the 5G network, using the egress time, which is the time when the synchronization message is transmitted to a communication node located outside the 5G network. The UE may update the correction field using the residence time and link delay and transmit the synchronization frame to the next TSN node.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a method in which a DS-TT generates a synchronization message and provides synchronization to a node located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Referring to FIG. 5, the DS-TT may generate a synchronization message and transmit it to an external node connected to the DS-TT. At this time, the timestamp of the synchronization message may indicate the time when the synchronization message was generated. At the same time, the DS-TT may perform an operation to receive the synchronization message from the external node. Other operations of the DS-TT may be performed in the reverse order of the operations of FIG. 3. The DS-TT may enter the time when the synchronization message was generated into an ingress time field and transmit it to the NW-TT. In this case, the link delay included in the correction field may be 0. The NW-TT may determine the residence time, which is the time the synchronization message resides in the 5G network, based on the egress time, which is the time when the synchronization message is transmitted to a node located outside the 5G network. The NW-TT may update the correction field based on the residence time and link delay and transmit the synchronization frame to the next TSN node.

[0048] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing a method in which a NW-TT and a DS-TT each generate a synchronization message in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and provide synchronization to a node located outside 5GS.

[0049] The NW-TT may generate a synchronization message and transmit it in the direction of the connected wired node. At this time, the timestamp of the synchronization message may indicate the time when the synchronization message was generated. The DS-TT may generate a synchronization message and transmit it to an external node connected to the DS-TT. At this time, the timestamp of the synchronization message may indicate the time when the synchronization message was generated. The NW-TT and the DS-TT may transmit the synchronization message in the manner described in FIG. 4 or FIG. 5, or may not transmit the synchronization message at all. For example, if the synchronization message is not transmitted, traffic generation may decrease, the load on the terminal / equipment may decrease, and power consumption may decrease.

[0050] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing a configuration method for setting 5GS as a synchronization source in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Referring to Figure 7, when 5GS works with a TSN system, the TSN Application Function (AF) can exchange management information with a Centralized Network Configuration (CNC) server. The TSN AF can obtain management information of the NW-TT and DS-TT and can change the configuration by transmitting the management information to the NW-TT and DS-TT. Through the above process, the 5GS may be configured as shown in Figure 4, 5, or 6.

[0052] When 5GS does not interface with a TSN system, another AF, rather than the TSN AF, may configure the NW-TT and DS-TT in a manner similar to the configuration of the TSN AF. In this case, the AF may be connected to the 5GS internal network via the NEF. An embodiment in which the AF is connected via the NEF will be described below. Depending on the AF's configuration process for the NW-TT and DS-TT, the 5GS may be configured as shown in FIG. 4, 5, or 6. In particular, when 5GS does not interface with a TSN system, the method of transmitting synchronization messages to nodes located outside the 5GS is not limited to the method of using gPTP, and Precision Time Protocol (PTP) may be transmitted as an Ethernet message or a UDP / IP message.

[0053] In the present disclosure, the DS-TT may be implemented in a terminal, and the NW-TT may be implemented in an NF entity of a core network such as a UPF or an AMF. 8 to 12 show an example in which the NW-TT is implemented on a UPF.

[0054] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the signal flow for a NW-TT to generate a synchronization message and provide synchronization to a node located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] In step 801, the DS-TT may establish a connection with the required TSN AF or AF (or AF via a Network Exposure Function (NEF)) while creating a PDU session. At this time, parameters of the DS-TT and PDU session may be transmitted to the TSN AF or AF.

[0056] In step 802, associations may be established between a Session Management Function (SMF) and a Policy Control Function (PCF), and between a PCF and a TSN AF or AFs.

[0057] In step 803, the TSN AF or AF may perform configuration for the DS-TT and NW-TT. For example, the AF may configure the NW-TT to generate a synchronization message including a parameter for Sync Activation indicating that 5GS or TSN GM is the synchronization source and a parameter indicating that the master port is the NW-TT. The AF may also specify the format of the external transmission synchronization message of the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port as gPTP / PTP. The AF may also specify the synchronization domain supported by each port. The AF may also set a destination IP address when the message is transmitted via UDP / IP in the PTP format. Referring to FIG. 8, the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port may support the same domain. The transmission period of the synchronization message may be the same, so the synchronization message may include a common timestamp (TS) period as a parameter.

[0058] In step 804, the NW-TT may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 803, the synchronization message may be in the form of a gPTP message or a PTP message. At this time, the time of the timestamp may be determined based on the time when the synchronization message is generated, and the time of subsequent timestamps may be determined based on the set timestamp period. Also, the Link Delay 1 value may be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 value may be set to 1. The ingress timestamp included in the gPTP message transmitted from the NW-TT to the DS-TT may be set to the time when the synchronization message was generated.

[0059] In step 805, the NW-TT can send a synchronization message to an external node. For example, in the case of a gPTP message, the GM (Grand Master) TS (Time Stamp), Correction Field, and Rate Ratio 1 can be set to 0 and 1, respectively. The PTP message can be corrected to the value obtained by adding the Correction Field to the GM TS. In this case, since the Correction Field value is 0, only the GM TS value can actually be reflected.

[0060] In step 806, the NW-TT may include an ingress timestamp in the synchronization message generated in step 804 before transmitting the synchronization message to the DS-TT in (g)PTP format.

[0061] In step 807, the NW-TT may send a synchronization message to the DS-TT. The synchronization message may include GM TS, a correction field of 0, a rate ratio 1 (rateRatio1) of 1, and an entrance timestamp set to GM TS.

[0062] In step 808, the DS-TT may determine Residence Time 1 before transmitting the (g)PTP message received from the NW-TT to an external node. Based on the Egress Time, which is the time point at which the synchronization message is transmitted to the external node, Residence Time 1 may be calculated as (Egress Time - Ingress Time) * rateRatio1. In this case, both the Egress Time and the Ingress Time are based on the 5GS GM, and rateRatio1 may be 1, which is the value transmitted from the NW-TT in step 807. The Ingress Timestamp field of the synchronization message finally transmitted to the external node may be deleted.

[0063] In step 809, the DS-TT can send a synchronization message to an external node. In the case of the gPTP format, the GM TS and correction field values ​​of the synchronization message can respectively indicate 1 as the Residence Time 1 and rate Ratio calculated in step 808. In the case of the PTP format, the GM TS and correction field values ​​of the synchronization message can respectively be updated to the value obtained by adding the Residence Time 1 calculated in step 8, and this can be reflected in the timestamp.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the signal flow for DS-TT to generate a synchronization message and provide synchronization to a node located outside 5GS in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] In step 901, the DS-TT creates a PDU session and establishes a connection with the required TSN AF or AF (or AF via the NEF). At this time, parameters of the DS-TT and PDU session may be transmitted to the TSN AF or AF.

[0066] In step 902, associations can be established between the SMF and the PCF, and between the PCF and the TSN AF or AF.

[0067] In step 903, the TSN AF or AF may perform configuration for the DS-TT and NW-TT. At this time, the AF may configure the DS-TT to generate a synchronization message including a parameter for synchronization activation indicating that 5GS or TSN GM is the synchronization source and a parameter indicating that the Master Port is DS-TT. The AF may also specify the format of the synchronization message transmitted externally from the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port as gPTP / PTP. The AF may also specify the synchronization domains supported by each port. In the case of the PTP format, the AF may set a destination IP address when the synchronization message is transmitted via UDP / IP. Referring to FIG. 9, the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port may support the same domain. The synchronization message may have a common transmission period, and therefore may include a common TS period as a parameter.

[0068] In step 904, the DS-TT may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 903, the synchronization message may have the format of a gPTP message or a PTP message. At this time, the first timestamp of the synchronization message may be determined based on the time when the synchronization message is generated, and timestamps generated thereafter may be determined based on the set timestamp period. Also, the link delay 1 value of the synchronization message may be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 value may be set to 1. The ingress timestamp included in the gPTP message transmitted from the DS-TT to the NW-TT may be set based on the time when the synchronization message is generated.

[0069] In step 905, the DS-TT can send a synchronization message to an external node. The GM TS and correction field values ​​of the gPTP message can be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 (rateRatio1) can be set to 1. The GM TS of the PTP message can be corrected to a value obtained by adding the value of the correction field. In this case, since the correction field value is 0, the GM TS value can be the same as the value before correction.

[0070] In step 906, the DS-TT may set an ingress timestamp value before transmitting the synchronization message generated in step 904 to the NW-TT in (g)PTP format.

[0071] In step 907, the DS-TT may send a synchronization message to the NW-TT. The synchronization message may be set to GM TS, a correction field value of 0, a rate ratio value of 1, and an ingress timestamp value of GM TS.

[0072] In step 908, the NW-TT may determine Residence Time 1 before transmitting the gPTP message received from the DS-TT to an external node. For example, Residence Time 1 may be calculated as (Egress Time - Ingress Time) * rateRatio1 based on the Egress Time, which is the time when the synchronization message is transmitted to the external node. In this case, both the Egress Time and the Ingress Time are based on the 5GS GM, and rateRatio1 may be 1, which is the value received from the DS-TT in step 7. The Ingress Timestamp field of the synchronization message finally transmitted to the outside may be deleted.

[0073] In step 909, the NW-TT may send a synchronization message to an external node. In the case of the gPTP format, the GM TS and correction fields of the synchronization message may be set to 1, which corresponds to the Residence Time 1 and rate Ratio 1 determined in step 908, respectively. In the case of the PTP format, the GM TS and correction field values ​​of the synchronization message may be updated to a value incremented by the Residence Time 1 determined in step 908, and this may be reflected in the timestamp.

[0074] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing the signal flow for DS-TT to generate a synchronization message and provide synchronization to a node located outside 5GS when a terminal-to-terminal (UE-to-UE) transmission section is included in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] 10, in step 1001, the DS-TT1 may establish a connection with the required TSN AF or AF (or AF via the NEF) while creating a PDU session. At this time, parameters of the DS-TT1 and the PDU session may be transmitted to the TSN AF or AF.

[0076] In step 1002, associations may be established between the SMF and the PCF, and between the PCF and the TSN AF or AF.

[0077] In step 1003, the DS-TT2 may establish a connection with the required TSN AF or AF while creating a PDU session. At this time, parameters of the DS-TT2 and the PDU session may be transmitted to the TSN AF or AF.

[0078] In step 1004, associations can be established between the SMF and the PCF, and between the PCF and the TSN AF or AF.

[0079] In step 1005, the TSN AF or AF may perform configuration for the DS-TT1 and the NW-TT. At this time, the AF may be configured to generate a synchronization message including a parameter for synchronization activation indicating that the DS-TT1 is 5GS or TSN GM as the synchronization source, and a parameter indicating that the master port is the DS-TT1. The AF may also specify the format of the synchronization message transmitted externally from the DS-TT1 port and the NW-TT port as gPTP / PTP. The AF may also specify the synchronization domains supported by each port. In the case of the PTP format, the AF may set a destination IP address when the synchronization message is transmitted via UDP / IP. Referring to FIG. 10, the DS-TT1 port and the NW-TT port may support the same domain. The synchronization messages may have a common transmission period, and therefore, a common TS period may be set as a parameter.

[0080] In step 1006, the TSN AF or AF may perform configuration for the DS-TT2 and NW-TT. At this time, the AF configures the DS-TT1 to generate a synchronization message including a parameter for synchronization activation indicating that 5GS or TSN GM is the synchronization source and a parameter indicating that the master port is the DS-TT1. The AF may also specify the format of the synchronization message transmitted externally from the DS-TT2 port and the NW-TT port as gPTP / PTP. The AF may also specify the synchronization domains supported by each port. In the case of the PTP format, the AF may configure a destination IP address when the synchronization message is transmitted via UDP / IP. Referring to FIG. 10, the DS-TT2 port and the NW-TT port may support the same domain. The synchronization messages may have a common transmission period, and therefore, parameters for a common TS period may be configured.

[0081] In step 1007, the DS-TT1 may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 1005, the synchronization message may have the format of a gPTP message or a PTP message. At this time, the timestamp may be determined based on the time of generation, and the time of subsequently generated timestamps may be set based on the set TS period. In addition, the Link Delay 1 value is set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 is set to 1. An ingress timestamp included in a gPTP message transmitted from the DS-TT1 to the NW-TT may also be set based on the time of generation.

[0082] In step 1008, the DS-TT1 can send a synchronization message to an external node. The GM TS and correction field values ​​of the gPTP message can be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 (rateRatio1) value can be set to 1. The GM TS of the PTP message can be corrected to a value obtained by adding the correction field value. In this case, since the correction field value is 0, the GM TS value can be the same as the value before correction.

[0083] In step 1009, the DS-TT1 can set an ingress timestamp before transmitting the synchronization message generated in step 1007 to the NW-TT in (g)PTP format.

[0084] In step 1010, DS-TT1 may send a synchronization message to NW-TT. The GM TS and correction field values ​​of the synchronization message may be set to 0, the rate ratio 1 value may be set to 1, and the ingress timestamp value may be set to GM TS.

[0085] In step 1011, the NW-TT may transmit the synchronization message received in step 10 to the DS-TT2 without any changes. The synchronization message may have the GM TS value, the correction field value set to 0, the rate ratio 1 value set to 1, and the ingress timestamp value set to the GM TS value.

[0086] In step 1012, DS-TT2 may determine Residence Time 2 before transmitting the gPTP message received from NW-TT in step 1011 to an external node. For example, DS-TT2 may calculate Residence Time 2 as (Egress Time 2 - Ingress Time) * rateRatio1 based on Egress Time 2, which is the time when the synchronization message is transmitted to the external node. In this case, Egress Time 2 and Ingress Time are both based on 5GS GM, and rateRatio1 may be 1, which is the value set by DS-TT1 in step 1008. Then, DS-TT2 may delete the Ingress Timestamp field of the synchronization message to be finally transmitted to the external node.

[0087] In step 1012a, the NW-TT can determine Residence Time 1 before transmitting the gPTP message received from DS-TT1 to an external node. The NW-TT can calculate Residence Time 1 as (Egress Time 1 - Ingress Time) * rateRatio 1 based on Egress Time 1, which is the time when the synchronization message is transmitted to the external node. In this case, both Egress Time 1 and Ingress Time are based on the 5GS GM, and rateRatio 1 is the value set by DS-TT1 in step 1008, which may be 1. The NW-TT can then delete the Ingress Timestamp field of the synchronization message to be finally transmitted externally.

[0088] In step 1013, the DS-TT2 may transmit a synchronization message to an external node. In the case of the gPTP format, the GM TS value and correction field of the synchronization message may be set to 1, which corresponds to Residence Time 2 and rate Ratio 1 calculated in step 1008. In the case of the PTP format, the GM TS value of the synchronization message may be updated to a value obtained by adding Residence Time 2 calculated in step 1008, which is the correction field value, and this may be reflected in the timestamp.

[0089] In step 1013a, the NW-TT may send a synchronization message to an external node. In the case of a gPTP format, the GM TS value and correction field value of the synchronization message may be set to 1, which corresponds to Residence Time 1 and rate Ratio 1 calculated in step 1008. In the case of a PTP format, the GM TS value of the synchronization message may be updated to a value obtained by adding Residence Time 1 calculated in step 8, which is the correction field value, and this may be reflected in the timestamp.

[0090] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the signal flow for NW-TT and DS-TT to each generate synchronization messages in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure and provide synchronization to nodes located outside 5GS.

[0091] 11, in step 1101, the DS-TT creates a PDU session and establishes a connection with the required TSN AF or AF (or AF via the NEF). At this time, parameters for the DS-TT and the PDU session may be transmitted to the TSN AF or AF.

[0092] In step 1102, associations may be established between the SMF and the PCF, and between the PCF and the TSN AF or AF.

[0093] In step 1103, the TSN AF or AF may perform configuration for the DS-TT and NW-TT. At this time, the AF may configure the DS-TT and NW-TT or the DS-TT or NW-TT to generate a Sync message including a synchronization activation parameter indicating that 5GS or TSN GM is the synchronization source and a parameter indicating that the master port is the DS-TT and / or NW-TT. The format of the synchronization message transmitted externally from the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port may be specified as gPTP / PTP. The synchronization domains supported by each message may be specified in the synchronization message. In the PTP format, a destination IP address may be set in the synchronization message when transmitted via UDP / IP. Referring to FIG. 11, the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port may support different domains. The synchronization message may have different transmission periods, and thus may include parameters for each TS period.

[0094] In step 1104, the DS-TT may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 1103, the synchronization message may have the format of a gPTP message or a PTP message. At this time, TS1 corresponding to the time stamp may be set based on the time of generation, and the time of subsequent generation may be set based on the set TS Period1. In addition, the link delay 1 value may be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 may be set to 1. The ingress timestamp included in the gPTP message transmitted from the DS-TT to the NW-TT may also be set based on the time of generation.

[0095] In step 1104a, the NW-TT may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 1103, the synchronization message may have the format of a gPTP message or a PTP message. At this time, the TS2 corresponding to the timestamp may be set based on the time of generation, and the time of subsequent generation may be set based on the set TS Period2. Also, the Link Delay 2 value may be set to 0, and the rate Ratio 2 value may be set to 1. The Ingress Timestamp included in the gPTP message transmitted from the NW-TT to the DS-TT may be set based on the time of generation.

[0096] In step 1105, the DS-TT can send a synchronization message to an external node. The GM TS1 value and correction field value of the gPTP message can be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 (rateRatio1) value can be set to 1. The GM TS1 value of the PTP message can be corrected to a value obtained by adding the correction field value. Since the correction field value is 0 here as well, the GM TS1 value can be the same as before correction.

[0097] In step 1105a, the NW-TT may send a synchronization message to an external node. The GM TS2 value and correction field value of the gPTP message may be set to 0, and the rateRatio2 value may be set to 1. The GM TS2 value of the PTP message may be corrected to a value obtained by adding the correction field value. Again, since the correction field value is 0, the GM TS2 value may be the same as the value before correction.

[0098] In step 1106, like steps 804, 806, 807, and 808 of Figure 8 or steps 904, 906, 907, and 908 of Figure 9, a gPTP-formatted synchronization message may be transmitted from the NW-TT to the DS-TT, or from the DS-TT to the NW-TT. Alternatively, a gPTP-formatted Sync message may not be transmitted between the NW-TT and the DS-TT. If a synchronization message is not transmitted, traffic generation may be reduced, the load on the terminal / equipment may be reduced, and power consumption may be reduced.

[0099] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing the signal flow for generating identically configured synchronization messages in a communication system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in which the NW-TT and the DS-TT provide synchronization to nodes located outside the 5GS.

[0100] 12, in step 1201, the DS-TT creates a PDU session and establishes a connection with the required TSN AF or AF (or AF via the NEF). At this time, parameters for the DS-TT and the PDU session may be transmitted to the TSN AF or AF.

[0101] In step 1202, associations may be established between the SMF and the PCF, and between the PCF and the TSN AF or AF.

[0102] In step 1203, the TSN AF or AF may configure the DS-TT and NW-TT. At this time, the AF may configure the DS-TT and NW-TT to generate a Sync message including a parameter for synchronization activation indicating that 5GS or TSN GM is the synchronization source and a parameter indicating that the master port is the DS-TT or NW-TT. The format of the synchronization message transmitted externally from the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port may be specified as gPTP / PTP. The same synchronization domain may be specified in the synchronization message. In the PTP format, a destination IP address may be set in the synchronization message when transmitted via UDP / IP. Referring to FIG. 12, the DS-TT port and the NW-TT port may support separate domains. Referring to FIG. 12, the synchronization message may have a common transmission period, and thus may include a parameter for a common TS period. The synchronization message may also include a parameter for an initial TS so that the synchronization message has the same timestamp.

[0103] In step 1204, the DS-TT may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 1203, the synchronization message may have the format of a gPTP message or a PTP message. In this case, the timestamp TS1 may be generated based on the time of the TS period starting from the initial TS, and the time of subsequent generation may be set based on the set TS period. Alternatively, the timestamp of the synchronization message may be set based on a common TS period regardless of the initial TS. Also, the Link Delay 1 value may be set to 0, and the Rate Ratio 1 value may be set to 1. The Ingress Timestamp included in the gPTP message transmitted from the DS-TT to the NW-TT may be set based on the time the message was generated.

[0104] In step 1204a, the NW-TT may generate a synchronization message. As specified in step 1203, the synchronization message may have the format of a gPTP message or a PTP message. In this case, the timestamp TS2 may be generated based on the time of the TS period starting from the initial TS, and the time of subsequent generation may be set based on the set TS period. Alternatively, the timestamp of the synchronization message may be set based on a common TS period regardless of the initial TS. In addition, the Link Delay 2 value may be set to 0, and the rate ratio 2 may be set to 1. The ingress timestamp included in the gPTP message transmitted from the NW-TT to the DS-TT may be set based on the generation time.

[0105] In step 1205, the DS-TT can transmit a synchronization message to an external node. For a gPTP message, the GM TS1 value and correction field value can be set to 0, and the rate ratio 1 (rateRatio1) value can be set to 1. For a PTP message, the GM TS1 can be corrected to a value obtained by adding the correction field value. Again, since the correction field value is 0, the GM TS1 value can be the same as the value before correction.

[0106] In step 1205a, the NW-TT may send a synchronization message to an external node. The GM TS2 value and correction field value of the gPTP message may be set to 0, and the rateRatio2 value may be set to 1. The GM TS2 value of the PTP message may be corrected to a value obtained by adding the correction field value. Again, since the correction field value is 0, the GM TS2 value may be the same as the value before correction.

[0107] In step 1206, like steps 804, 806, 807, and 808 of Figure 8 or steps 904, 906, 907, and 908 of Figure 9, a synchronization message in gPTP format may be transmitted from the NW-TT to the DS-TT or from the DS-TT to the NW-TT. Alternatively, a synchronization message in gPTP format may not be transmitted or received between the NW-TT and the DS-TT. If a synchronization message is not transmitted, traffic generation can be reduced, the load on the terminal / equipment can be reduced, and power consumption can be reduced.

[0108] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] 13, a user equipment (UE) may include a transceiver 1310, a controller 1320, and a memory 1330. The user equipment (UE) may include additional components depending on the implementation. For example, the user equipment may further include various additional devices such as a display, an input unit, and a sensor for a user interface. The present invention does not restrict such additional configuration.

[0110] The transceiver 1310 may be connected to a base station via a wireless channel based on each embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, and may transmit and receive signals and / or messages to and from various network function devices via the base station. For example, the terminal may be a DS-TT. When the terminal communicates with a 5G network, the transceiver 1310 may be a device capable of transmitting and receiving signals to and from the 5G communication network. The transceiver 1310 may also include a communication processor, if necessary.

[0111] If the transceiver unit 1310 does not include a communications processor, all signals and / or messages may be processed in the control unit.

[0112] The control unit 1320 can control basic terminal operations and can control the reception and storage of messages as described above. For example, the control unit 1320 can control terminal operations based on the above description.

[0113] The memory 1330 may store various data necessary for controlling the terminal, and may have an area for storing various commands for the various operations of the terminal described above.

[0114] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0115] 14, a base station (gNB) may include a network interface 1410, a controller 1420, and a memory 1430. The base station may include more additional components depending on the implementation. For example, the base station may further include various additional devices such as a display, an input unit, and a sensor for a user interface. The present invention does not limit such additional configuration.

[0116] The network interface 1410 may be connected to a terminal via a wireless channel based on each embodiment described in Figures 1 to 12 and may transmit and receive signals and / or messages to and from various network function devices. When the base station communicates with a 5G network, the network interface 1410 may be a device capable of transmitting and receiving signals to and from the 5G communication network and may be referred to as a transceiver. The network interface 1410 may also include a communication processor as needed.

[0117] If the network interface 1410 does not include a communications processor, all signals and / or messages may be processed in the control unit.

[0118] The control unit 1420 can control the basic operation of the base station and can control the reception and storage of messages described above. For example, the control unit 1420 can control the operation of the base station based on the above description.

[0119] The memory 1430 may store various data necessary for controlling the base station, and may have an area for storing various commands for the operation of the base station described above.

[0120] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a network function (NF) entity according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The NF entity illustrated in FIG. 15 refers to an entity responsible for the network function of the core network described above, and may include at least one of an AMF, an SMF, a UPF, a PCF, and a TSN AF, and is not limited to a specific NF. Meanwhile, the UPF, which is one of the NF entities of the present disclosure, may perform operations based on each of the embodiments described in FIGS. 1 to 12. For example, the UPF may be a NW-TT.

[0121] 15, the NF entity may communicate with other network entities of the core network through a network interface 1510. For example, the NF entity may communicate with a UE, a gNB, or other NF entities such as an AMF, an SMF, a UPF, a PCF, a TSN AF, etc. The network interface 1510 may transmit and receive signals and / or messages to and from various network entities and may be referred to as a transceiver.

[0122] The controller 1520 may be embodied as at least one processor and / or program for performing the operations of the NF entities. For example, the controller 1520 may perform the operations of the NF entities described above.

[0123] The memory 1530 can store programs and various control information required by the control unit 1520, as well as various other information described in the present invention. In the case of other network entities, the memory 1530 can similarly store information required for the operations described above.

[0124] In addition to the above-described configurations, the NF entity may further include various interfaces for connecting with the operator, but the present disclosure does not particularly restrict such additional configurations.

[0125] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a TSN node according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] A TSN node may communicate with other network entities of the core network through a network interface 1610 and may be referred to as a transceiver. For example, a TSN node may communicate with a UE, a gNB, or NF entities such as a UPF, AMF, SMF, PCF, TSN AF, etc.

[0127] The controller 1620 may be implemented as at least one processor and / or program for performing the operations of a TSN node. For example, the controller 1620 may perform the operations of the TSN node described above.

[0128] The memory 1630 can store programs and various control information required by the control unit 1620, as well as various information described in the present invention. In the case of other network entities, the memory 1630 can similarly store information required for the operations described above.

[0129] In addition to the above-described configuration, the TSN node may further include various interfaces for connection with an operator. The above-described TSN node may be a node of a general network. The present disclosure does not particularly restrict such additional configuration.

[0130] The methods according to the embodiments described in the claims or specification of the present invention may be implemented in the form of hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software.

[0131] When embodied as software, a computer-readable storage medium may be provided that stores one or more programs (software modules). The one or more programs stored on the computer-readable storage medium are configured for execution by one or more processors in an electronic device. The one or more programs include instructions that cause the electronic device to execute a method according to an embodiment of the present invention as claimed or described in the specification.

[0132] Such programs (software modules, software) may be stored in random access memory, non-volatile memory including flash memory, ROM (Read Only Memory), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), magnetic disc storage device, Compact Disc-ROM (CD-ROM), Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs) or other forms of optical storage, magnetic cassette, or in memory configured as a combination of some or all of these. Also, each of these memory configurations may be included in multiple instances.

[0133] The program may also be stored in an attachable storage device accessible through a communication network such as the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide LAN (WLAN), or a storage area network (SAN), or a combination thereof. Such a storage device may be connected to an apparatus that performs an embodiment of the present invention through an external port. Alternatively, a separate storage device on the communication network may be connected to an apparatus that performs an embodiment of the present invention.

[0134] In the specific embodiments of the present invention described above, the elements included in the present invention are expressed as singular or plural in accordance with the specific embodiments presented. However, the expressions singular or plural are selected appropriately according to the presented circumstances for the convenience of explanation, and the present invention is not limited to singular or plural elements, and elements expressed as plural may be composed of singular, and elements expressed as singular may be composed of plural.

[0135] Although the detailed description of the present invention has been given with reference to specific embodiments, it is to be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be limited to the described embodiments, but should be defined by the following claims and equivalents to those claims.

[0136] While the present invention has been described in terms of various embodiments, various changes and modifications may be suggested to those skilled in the art, and the present disclosure is intended to cover such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method performed by a first network function entity including a Network-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (NW-TT) in a 5th Generation System (5GS), comprising: receiving, from a second network function entity, time synchronization information including first information indicating that the NW-TT and a Device-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (DS-TT) supporting the same domain are synchronization sources of the 5GS, and second information regarding a transmission type for distributing time synchronization; generating a synchronization message for the DS-TT based on the time synchronization information; adding an entry timestamp to the synchronization message corresponding to the entry time when the synchronization message was generated; and transmitting the synchronization message to a terminal including the DS-TT; The method, wherein the synchronization message further includes a rate ratio whose value is set to one.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the transmission type is associated with one of gPTP (generic PTP) or PTP.

3. A method performed by a terminal including a Device-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (DS-TT) in a 5th Generation System (5GS), comprising: receiving, from a first network functional entity including a Network-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (NW-TT), a synchronization message including an entry timestamp corresponding to an entry time at which the synchronization message was generated; calculating a dwell time based on the difference between an exit time and the entry time indicated by the entry timestamp; adding the dwell time to the synchronization message; and transmitting the synchronization message to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system; The method, wherein the synchronization message further includes a rate ratio whose value is set to one.

4. The method described in claim 3, wherein the residence time is further calculated based on the rate ratio.

5. The method of claim 3, further comprising the step of removing the entry timestamp from the synchronization message after the step of calculating the residence time.

6. The method of claim 3, further comprising receiving time synchronization information from a second network function entity, the time synchronization information including first information indicating that the NW-TT and the DS-TT supporting the same domain are synchronization sources for the 5GS, and second information related to a transmission type for distributing time synchronization.

7. The method of claim 6 , wherein the transmission type is associated with one of gPTP (generic PTP) or PTP.

8. A first network function entity including a Network-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (NW-TT) in a 5th Generation System (5GS), a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals; and coupled to the transceiver unit, Receive time synchronization information from a second network function entity, the time synchronization information including first information indicating that the NW-TT and a Device-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (DS-TT) supporting the same domain are synchronization sources of the 5GS, and second information related to a transmission type for distributing time synchronization; generating a synchronization message for the DS-TT based on the time synchronization information; adding an entry timestamp to the synchronization message corresponding to the entry time when the synchronization message was generated; and a control unit configured to transmit the synchronization message to a terminal including the DS-TT; The synchronization message further includes a rate ratio whose value is set to one.

9. The control unit further configured to calculate a dwell time based on the difference between the entry time and the exit time indicated by the entry timestamp and the rate ratio; The residence time is added to the synchronization message; The first network function entity according to claim 8, wherein the synchronization message is transmitted from the terminal to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system.

10. The first network function entity described in claim 9, wherein the entry timestamp is removed from the synchronization message after calculating the residence time.

11. The first network function entity described in claim 8, wherein the transmission type is associated with one of gPTP (generic PTP) or PTP.

12. A terminal including a DS-TT (Device-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator) in 5GS (5th Generation System), a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals; and receiving, from a first network functional entity including a Network-Side Time Sensitive Network Translator (NW-TT), the synchronization message including an entry timestamp corresponding to an entry time at which the synchronization message was generated; calculating a dwell time based on the difference between an exit time and the entry time indicated by the entry timestamp; Adding the entry timestamp to the synchronization message; and a controller configured to transmit the synchronization message to an external Precision Time Protocol (PTP) port of a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) system; The terminal, wherein the synchronization message further includes a rate ratio whose value is set to one.

13. The terminal described in claim 12, wherein the residence time is further calculated based on the rate ratio.

14. The control unit: The terminal of claim 12 , further configured to remove the entry timestamp from the synchronization message after calculating the dwell time.

15. The control unit The terminal of claim 12, further configured to receive time synchronization information from a second network function entity, the time synchronization information including first information indicating that the NW-TT and the DS-TT supporting the same domain are synchronization sources of the 5GS, and second information related to a transmission type for distribution of time synchronization.

16. The terminal described in claim 15, wherein the transmission type is associated with one of gPTP (generic PTP) or PTP.

Images