Heterogeneous Network Oscillator Self-Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network communication systems face challenges in accurately synchronizing oscillators in heterogeneous networks, particularly in areas with poor or no macrocell coverage, where GPS and IP-based synchronization methods are unreliable or inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method for a Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) to broadcast information about oscillator accuracy confidence levels and frequency, allowing cell members to update their oscillator offsets and adjust frequencies, enabling self-synchronization even outside macrocell coverage areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS synchronization is used, then oscillator accuracy is improved, but line of sight requirement limits applicability in indoor or obstructed areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cell members as intermediary nodes that relay timing information between GPS-synchronized cells and cells without direct GPS access. These intermediaries forward oscillator offset information through the network, enabling indirect synchronization for cells in obstructed areas without requiring direct line-of-sight to satellites.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical line-of-sight requirement of GPS with a logical network-based synchronization mechanism. Instead of requiring direct satellite visibility, cells use wireless communication to exchange timing information with neighboring cells, substituting the mechanical/optical GPS system with an electromagnetic communication-based alternative.
2Measurement precision
If macrocell sniffing is used, then oscillator synchronization is improved, but coverage is limited to areas with macrocell presence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal synchronization mechanism where any cell member can serve multiple functions: it can be a primary synchronized cell with GPS access, an intermediary relaying information, or a remote cell receiving synchronization data. This multi-functional design allows the same network infrastructure to support synchronization across all three scenarios without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables cells to self-synchronize by autonomously selecting their synchronization source based on available options. Cells independently determine whether to use direct GPS, macrocell sniffing, or intermediary cell information, and automatically adjust their oscillator offsets without manual configuration or external intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If IP network synchronization protocol is used, then synchronization capability is improved, but performance is slow and bandwidth consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential timing information (oscillator offset values and confidence levels) from full synchronization protocols, transmitting minimal data packets between cells. This selective extraction of critical parameters reduces message size and transmission time compared to comprehensive time synchronization protocols like NTP or IEEE 1588.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements partial synchronization by updating oscillator offsets only when necessary based on confidence levels and available alternatives, rather than continuously exchanging full timing information. This selective updating reduces the frequency and volume of synchronization messages, improving efficiency while maintaining adequate synchronization accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, method, and apparatus to facilitate the synchronization of oscillators between members of a Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) to form a self-synchronizing network (SSN). The network members are configured to broadcast information indicative of the reliability of their oscillator. Network members attempt to look for reliable sources such as those originating from a macrocell base station or GPS. If such a source is found, the member cell updates it clock accuracy confidence level number (CACL) to indicate this. Network members also share information regarding the frequency offsets between one another. Every cell member then applies a weighted average function to determine how to update its own oscillator and CACL value accordingly. Cell members can also update their functionality, such as RF power level, in response to varying degrees of CACL values. This operation results in a convergence of all cell members to the most accurate oscillator offset value.