5G Time Synchronization Network Configuration for External Grandmaster Clocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing 5G mobile communication networks face limitations in configuring time synchronization networks where the UE or 5G network itself acts as a reference clock, restricting the ability to transfer time synchronization packets, especially in scenarios where the grand master clock is located externally, and they struggle to support time-sensitive traffic in general IP-based networks.
Innovation Solution
The method involves configuring a 5G mobile communication network to support time synchronization by allowing the UE or 5G network to act as a reference clock, enabling time synchronization packets to be transmitted in both the control and user planes without relying on external application functions, and supporting time-sensitive communication across general data networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the UE or 5G network acts as a reference clock in time synchronization networks, then flexibility in configuring time synchronization networks is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the 5G network and UE to serve multiple functions including acting as a reference clock (grand master clock), transmitting time synchronization packets, and supporting time-sensitive traffic. This multi-functionality allows the same network infrastructure to provide both general communication services and precise time synchronization without requiring separate dedicated reference clock devices, thereby improving flexibility while managing complexity through resource consolidation.
2Ease of operation
If time synchronization packets are transmitted in both control and user planes without external application functions, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the 5G network and UE to autonomously transmit time synchronization packets through both control plane and user plane interfaces without requiring external application functions. The network infrastructure itself performs the time synchronization operations, eliminating the need for separate external time synchronization management systems and simplifying operational procedures while the internal complexity is managed through integrated network functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the 5G network supports time-sensitive traffic in general IP-based networks, then adaptability is improved, but reliability of time synchronization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating time-sensitive traffic from general IP traffic through dedicated network slices or QoS mechanisms. The control plane and user plane are utilized differently to ensure that time synchronization packets receive prioritized handling independent of general data traffic. This segmentation allows the network to support diverse time-sensitive applications while maintaining reliable time synchronization through dedicated transmission paths that are not affected by general IP network variability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5G communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4G system with a technology for IoT. A method of a NW-TT is provided. The method includes receiving a first announce message via user plane from a first DS-TT using a first PDU session between the NW-TT and the first DS-TT, receiving a second announce message from a N6 interface, determining port states for each port of the first DS-TT and the NW-TT with the first and second announce message using a BMCA procedure, if GM is external to a time synchronization network, generating a third announce message based on the first and second announce message for each master port in the first DS-TT and the NW-TT, and transmitting the third announce message to the first PDU session related to the master port in the first DS-TT.