Pluggable GNSS Synchronization Module for Network Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing synchronization methods for network elements, such as base stations, lack flexibility and efficiency, particularly in systems where multiple base stations need to operate at a common time scale to support simultaneous communication with user equipment, and are inflexible for updates or sharing of resources.
Innovation Solution
A pluggable synchronization module that uses a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver to provide precise timing information, integrated with a compact form-factor design allowing for easy installation and updates, and capable of operating with shared antennas and multiple GNSS systems, utilizing a Small Form-factor Pluggable (SFP) interface for flexible placement and compatibility with various communication standards like Gigabit Ethernet and CPRI.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a built-in GNSS receiver is provided within each network element, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the GNSS receiver functionality with an existing network interface card (NIC) or communication module, merging satellite signal reception capabilities with standard network communication functions. This integration eliminates the need for separate dedicated GNSS hardware while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The network interface card is designed to perform multiple functions: standard network communication and GNSS signal reception for synchronization. By making the NIC universal, the patent avoids adding dedicated synchronization hardware, thereby reducing device complexity while still achieving precise time synchronization.
2Reliability
If a dedicated GNSS receiver and antenna port are provided, then synchronization capability is improved, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The network interface card serves dual purposes: standard data communication and GNSS signal reception. This multi-functional design maintains synchronization capability while allowing the antenna port to be shared or repurposed when synchronization is not required, thereby improving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically allocates the antenna port and receiver resources based on operational needs. When synchronization is required, the GNSS functions are activated; otherwise, the resources can be reallocated or used for other purposes, providing dynamic adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If GNSS receiver is located at or in close proximity of the GNSS antenna, then signal reception is improved, but ease of installation and updates worsens
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the GNSS receiver with the network interface card housed in standard equipment racks, the patent eliminates the need for separate outdoor antenna mounting and receiver installation. The integrated design simplifies installation while maintaining signal reception through the use of existing antenna interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach where the network interface card acts as a mediator between the antenna and the synchronization system. This allows flexible placement and easy updates of the receiver component without requiring physical repositioning of antennas or complex outdoor installations.
4Reliability
If dedicated ports are used for synchronization signals, then synchronization reliability is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The network interface card provides a universal interface that handles both data communication and synchronization signals through the same port. This eliminates the need for dedicated synchronization ports while maintaining reliability through protocol-level separation and processing of synchronization data within the multi-functional card.
Data Source
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AI summary
A pluggable synchronization module (30) comprises an antenna input (32), a Global Navigation Satellite System receiver (34), an electrical interface (50) and processing circuitry (40). The Global Navigation Satellite System receiver (34) is operative to receive satellite-transmitted signals comprising positioning-related information over the antenna input (32). The Global Navigation Satellite System receiver (34) is further operative to determine a time reference from received such positioning-related information and to provide a time reference signal according to the determined time reference. The electrical interface (50) supports communication with the pluggable synchronization module (30). The electrical interface (50) is a form-factor pluggable interface. The processing circuitry (40) is connected to the Global Navigation Satellite System receiver (34) and to the electrical interface (50). The processing circuitry (40) is operative to deduce synchronization information from the time reference signal and to transmit the deduced synchronization information over the electrical interface (50).