Dynamic Path Delay Compensation in 5G Time Synchronization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current time synchronization processes in 5G wireless networks require continuous resource allocation for path delay compensation, leading to increased signaling and processing overhead, which is inefficient and may introduce errors in time-sensitive applications.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a method to dynamically control time synchronization in 5G networks by activating or deactivating path delay compensation based on specific requirements, using a time synchronization control message to manage the process, thereby optimizing resource usage and reducing unnecessary signaling and processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If path delay compensation is continuously activated in the time synchronization process, then time synchronization accuracy is improved, but resource utilization and signaling overhead increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime synchronization accuracyVSAvoidresource utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control of path delay compensation by enabling it only when time synchronization accuracy requirements demand it, rather than continuously activating it. The base station determines whether path delay compensation is needed based on current synchronization requirements and activates or deactivates the compensation mechanism accordingly, making the system adaptable to varying operational conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the operational state parameter of path delay compensation from a fixed continuous mode to a variable mode that can be activated or deactivated. By controlling the compensation mechanism's activation state based on synchronization requirements, the system optimizes the balance between accuracy and resource consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If path delay compensation is continuously activated, then time synchronization accuracy is improved, but signaling overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime synchronization accuracyVSAvoidsignaling overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent dynamically adjusts the signaling related to path delay compensation based on actual synchronization needs. When path delay compensation is deactivated, unnecessary signaling messages are avoided, reducing overhead. When activation is required, the necessary signaling is performed to maintain accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts the path delay compensation function from the continuous operational mode and separates it as an optional feature that can be independently activated or deactivated. This allows the system to remove unnecessary compensation signaling when accuracy requirements are met without compensation, reducing overall signaling overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Measurement precision

If path delay compensation is continuously activated, then time synchronization accuracy is improved, but processing overhead increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime synchronization accuracyVSAvoidprocessing overhead
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic control where the base station processes path delay compensation only when necessary. The determination of whether to activate compensation reduces processing load by avoiding unnecessary calculations, while still maintaining accuracy when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies partial action by performing path delay compensation only to the extent necessary for meeting synchronization requirements. Rather than continuously processing compensation for all UEs, the system selectively applies compensation only when and where needed, reducing overall processing overhead.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS20240236892A1Controlling time synchronisation in a wireless network
Publication Date: 2024.07.11 CANON KK
  • US20240236892A1 patent drawing
  • US20240236892A1 patent drawing
  • US20240236892A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for controlling time synchronisation in a wireless network comprising a user equipment, UE, and a base station, is disclosed. The method, at the UE, comprises: determining time synchronisation requirements between the UE and the base station; generating a time synchronization control message for controlling a time synchronisation process between the UE and the base station based on the determined time synchronisation requirements; and sending the time synchronization control message to the base station. A similar method may be performed at the base station with the base station sending the time synchronization control message to the UE.