Centralized Clock Synchronization Controller for Cloud Radio Access Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly cloud radio access networks, face challenges in effectively synchronizing the timing of numerous communication devices, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs for network operators due to the complexity and expense of conventional synchronization methods.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system for clock synchronization in wireless communication systems, where a controller receives communication parameters from devices, determines synchronization parameters such as phase and frequency offsets, and transmits these to synchronize communication devices, utilizing precision timing protocols and synchronization packets to achieve accurate clock alignment across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional synchronization methods are used in cloud radio access networks, then timing synchronization can be achieved, but the complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized synchronization controller as an intermediary component that manages timing synchronization for multiple communication devices. This controller receives timing information from a reference source and distributes synchronized timing parameters to all connected devices, thereby achieving reliable synchronization while keeping individual device complexity low. The controller acts as a mediator between the reference timing source and the communication devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the synchronization functionality into a centralized controller that serves multiple devices simultaneously. Instead of each device having independent synchronization mechanisms, the system merges the synchronization function into a single controller that manages timing for the entire network, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining synchronization reliability.
2Reliability
If conventional synchronization methods are used in cloud radio access networks, then timing synchronization can be achieved, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized synchronization controller provides a universal synchronization service to multiple communication devices through a single licensing model. Instead of each device requiring its own timing stack and servo licenses, the controller offers multi-functional synchronization capabilities to the entire network, significantly reducing licensing costs while maintaining reliable timing synchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization controller enables devices to obtain timing synchronization parameters automatically through standardized communication protocols. Devices self-configure by receiving synchronization parameters from the controller without requiring complex local synchronization implementations, thereby reducing the need for multiple licenses and lowering overall system cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If distributed synchronization management is used, then each device can operate independently, but the operational burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized synchronization controller serves as an intermediary that manages synchronization for all devices, allowing each device to operate independently while maintaining synchronized timing. The controller handles the operational complexity of synchronization management, freeing individual devices from burden while preserving their operational independence and adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, a system, and a computer program product for performing clock synchronization in a wireless communication system. One or more communication parameters are received from one or more communication devices communicating in a wireless communication system. Based on the received one or more communication parameters, one or more synchronization parameters are determined for each of the one or more communication devices. The determined one or more synchronization parameters are provided to each of the one or more communication devices, and one or more communication devices are synchronized using provided one or more synchronization parameters.