5G Time Synchronization BMCA via AF and NEF Intermediaries
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies do not define how the Device Side TSN Translator (DS-TT) or Network Side TSN Translator (NW-TT) performs the Best Master Clock Algorithm (BMCA) when the grand master clock is inside the 5G system.
Innovation Solution
A wireless communication method where a network node receives a message from a communication node indicating its capability to be a grand master clock, and transmits announce information associated with a first announce message based on this capability. This method involves multiple steps including receiving master clock information and transmitting announce messages based on various priorities and assist information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the grand master clock is placed inside the 5G system (at DS-TT or NW-TT), then time synchronization can be achieved within the 5G system, but the mechanism for performing BMCA by DS-TT or NW-TT is not defined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an Application Function (AF) or Network Exposure Function (NEF) as an intermediary that assists the DS-TT or NW-TT in performing BMCA. The AF/NEF receives capability indications from TSN translators, determines whether to send announce messages, and provides assist information to enable the translators to execute BMCA without having to implement the complete algorithm themselves, thus resolving the undefined mechanism problem while maintaining synchronization reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If DS-TT or NW-TT performs BMCA dynamically, then adaptability to different time sources is improved, but the complexity of determining GM clock information and port state increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables DS-TT or NW-TT to autonomously determine their capability to be a grand master clock and self-report this capability to the AF/NEF. The translator itself performs the capability assessment and initiates the capability indication message, reducing the need for external configuration and simplifying the overall BMCA process while maintaining dynamic adaptability
3Ease of manufacture
If static configuration is used for BMCA, then implementation simplicity is improved, but adaptability to dynamic time sources within 5G system is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic capability indication mechanism where DS-TT or NW-TT can change their grand master clock capability status based on runtime conditions. The capability indication message can be sent at different times (initially or later), allowing the system to adapt to changing time source availability while maintaining a relatively simple implementation through the AF/NEF assistance framework
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless communication method for use in a network node is disclosed. The method comprises receiving, from a communication node, a message indicating a capability of being a grand master clock, and transmitting, to the communication node, announce information associated with a first announce message based on the capability.