5G On-Demand Time Reference Request Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current on-demand procedures for requesting time reference information in 5G systems are inadequate, leading to uncertainties in providing the necessary time reference information for time-sensitive communications (TSC), which can result in synchronization issues and failure to meet Quality of Service (QoS) requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an explicit on-demand request mechanism by user equipment (UE) for 5G time reference information, allowing the UE to indicate the need for specific time reference data, enabling the network to provide the required synchronization information effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing on-demand procedures for requesting system information blocks are used, then the UE can request SIB9, but there is no guarantee that the network will provide the time reference information needed for TSC
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feedback mechanism where the UE explicitly indicates its need for time reference information in the on-demand request. The network receives this feedback and responds by providing the specific time reference information (referenceTimelnfo-r16 field) required for TSC, ensuring reliable delivery while maintaining a simple request procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the on-demand request parameters to include an explicit indication of time reference information needs. By changing the request structure to include this specific parameter, the UE can reliably request the necessary information without increasing overall procedure complexity.
2Reliability
If the time reference information is not provided to the UE, then the network and UE may lack synchronization, but providing it ensures TSC communication reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the UE to request time reference information in advance before TSC communication begins. By performing the information acquisition preliminarily through the on-demand procedure, the UE ensures synchronization is established before critical communications occur, preventing loss of synchronization information.
3Reliability
If the UE requests SIB9 using existing procedures, then the request can be sent, but the optional fields mean there is no guarantee of receiving the referenceTimelnfo-r16 field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the specific time reference information need from the general SIB9 request. By separating the indication of time reference information requirements from the standard on-demand procedure, the UE can reliably request only the necessary referenceTimelnfo-r16 field without increasing overall information structure complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus are provided to enable on-demand requests for a time reference for time-sensitive communications (TSC). The network can optionally configure a UE to enable on-demand requests for TSC. When the UE needs a time reference for TSC, the UE sends a message to the network including an explicit indication that a time reference for TSC is needed by the UE. In response to the request, the network sends to the UE on-demand system information comprising the time reference in a broadcast message or a dedicated message.