Conditional Link Synchronization in Non-Terrestrial Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current synchronization mechanisms in non-terrestrial networks (NTN) for 5G NR and NBIoT/E-MTC result in unnecessary resource overhead due to continuous signaling for link synchronization, even when synchronization is not required.
Innovation Solution
Conditional link synchronization is achieved by detecting system broadcasted information only when data is to be transmitted or a request for synchronization is received, allowing synchronization information to be generated and transmitted accordingly, reducing unnecessary signaling and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous signaling interaction is used to maintain link synchronization status, then synchronization reliability is improved, but resource overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic synchronization operations where the UE detects system broadcasted information and generates synchronization information only at specific intervals or when triggered by data transmission events, rather than continuously maintaining synchronization signaling. This reduces resource overhead while preserving synchronization reliability through scheduled updates.
Solution Approach 2:
The UE autonomously detects system broadcasted information and generates synchronization information based on its own needs and the received system information, without requiring continuous network-triggered synchronization commands. This self-service mechanism reduces signaling interaction and resource overhead while maintaining synchronization capability.
2Reliability
If continuous synchronization signaling is transmitted, then link synchronization is maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic synchronization detection where the UE periodically monitors system broadcasted information and updates synchronization status only when necessary, rather than continuously transmitting and processing synchronization signals. This periodic operation significantly reduces power consumption while maintaining link synchronization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization mechanism dynamically adjusts its operation based on system conditions - the UE detects system broadcasted information and generates synchronization information in response to specific triggers such as data transmission events or periodic timers, rather than operating at constant high power. This dynamic approach optimizes power consumption while preserving synchronization.
3Measurement precision
If synchronization information is generated and transmitted frequently, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The UE independently detects system broadcasted information containing synchronization data and generates its own synchronization information based on this detected data, eliminating the need for frequent network-initiated synchronization signaling. This self-service approach maintains synchronization accuracy while reducing signaling overhead by leveraging locally available system information.
Solution Approach 2:
The system broadcasts synchronization information in advance through system broadcasted messages, allowing the UE to pre-acquire synchronization data before it needs to transmit or receive data. This preliminary provision of synchronization information maintains accuracy without requiring frequent subsequent synchronization signaling exchanges.
Data Source
AI summary
Example embodiments of the present disclosure relate to devices, methods, apparatuses and computer readable storage media for conditional link synchronization in non-terrestrial networks. In example embodiments, a first device detects system broadcasted information, if there is data to be transmitted from the first device to the second device. Alternatively, the first device detects system broadcasted information if the first device receives a request for synchronization information from the second device. If the first device receives the system broadcasted information, it generates the synchronization information based on the system broadcasted information. Further, the first device transmits the synchronization information to the second device.