D2D Communication Synchronization via Network Timing Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
In existing mobile communications systems, device-to-device (D2D) proximity services face challenges in ensuring time and frequency synchronization between user devices located in different cells, which hinders effective D2D communication.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that acquire and utilize communication signal resources and timing information for D2D communication, allowing devices to synchronize by receiving communication signals based on acquired timing information, including indication information of reference timing signals and time deviations, to ensure synchronization between user devices across different cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If user devices in different cells track only their respective serving cell synchronization signals, then each device achieves synchronization with its serving cell, but time and frequency synchronization between the user devices cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a synchronization signal as an intermediary element that is transmitted by the network and received by user devices. This synchronization signal acts as a mediator to establish time and frequency synchronization between devices in different cells without requiring direct interaction or complex local synchronization mechanisms. The network serves as the intermediary authority that coordinates synchronization across the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization signal is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides time synchronization, frequency synchronization, and serves as a reference for devices across different cells. By making the synchronization mechanism universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate synchronization procedures for each cell or device pair, thereby ensuring reliable synchronization without increasing device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If D2D communication is implemented between user devices, then direct communication service scope is enriched, but ensuring time and frequency synchronization becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary synchronization action by having user devices acquire and track the network's synchronization signal before engaging in D2D communication. This preliminary synchronization step establishes the time and frequency reference in advance, ensuring that when D2D communication begins, both devices are already synchronized to the network timeline. This prevents synchronization issues from arising during the communication process itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The synchronization mechanism incorporates feedback loops where devices continuously monitor the synchronization signal and adjust their local timing and frequency references accordingly. This feedback ensures that even if there are drifts or variations, the devices can automatically correct their synchronization state, maintaining reliable time and frequency alignment throughout the D2D communication session.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a device-to-device D2D communication method and an apparatus. The method includes: acquiring, by a first device, a communication signal resource and timing information of the communication signal resource, where the communication signal resource is used for D2D communication; and receiving, by the first device, on the communication signal resource according to the timing information of the communication signal resource, a communication signal sent by a second device. By using the device-to-device D2D communication method and the apparatus provided in the present invention, synchronization between user devices for D2D communications can be implemented, so that users located in different cells can use a device-to-device proximity service.