Mobile Device Clock Update Using Motion Sensor Propagation Delay
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radio networks face challenges in maintaining accurate time synchronization between nodes, particularly in ultra-reliable and low latency communications, due to propagation delays that can exceed maximum allowed timing errors, especially in dynamic environments where UE movement affects synchronization accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device estimates propagation delay using local motion sensors, updates its internal clock with this information, and transitions between timing synchronization modes based on accuracy and power usage considerations, reducing the need for frequent uplink/downlink exchanges to conserve power and resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If propagation delay is determined based on transmissions exchanged between base station and mobile device, then timing synchronization accuracy is improved, but power consumption and radio resource usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile device performs preliminary propagation delay estimation using motion sensor data before actual transmission exchanges occur. This preliminary estimation allows the device to prepare timing information in advance, reducing the need for frequent transmission-based measurements and thereby lowering power consumption while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device uses its own local motion sensors to estimate propagation delay, rather than relying solely on network-based measurements. This self-service approach enables the device to independently determine timing information, reducing the frequency of uplink/downlink exchanges with the base station and consequently reducing both power consumption and radio resource usage.
2Use of energy by moving object
If propagation delay estimation uses data from local motion sensors, then power consumption is reduced, but measurement accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines motion sensor data from the mobile device with transmission-based measurements from the base station to estimate propagation delay. This merging of multiple data sources compensates for the limitations of using motion sensors alone, improving measurement accuracy while still reducing overall power consumption compared to traditional transmission-only methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the mobile device monitors the accuracy of its motion sensor-based propagation delay estimates and adjusts its timing information accordingly. This feedback loop allows the device to maintain synchronization accuracy by correcting deviations detected through periodic transmission exchanges, thereby resolving the accuracy issue while preserving power savings.
3Quantity of substance
If sensor-based timing synchronization mode is used, then radio resource usage is reduced, but reliability deteriorates in dynamic environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic switching between sensor-based timing synchronization mode and transmission-based mode. The mobile device can adaptively transition between these modes depending on environmental conditions, mobility state, and synchronization requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to use the power-efficient sensor-based mode when conditions permit, while switching to more reliable transmission-based methods when reliability is compromised in dynamic environments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for accurate time synchronization with reduced power consumption and radio resource usage, even in challenging conditions like multipath interference or limited network coverage, and serves as a backup for GPS/GNSS systems.
Implementation Method 1
estimating a propagation delay of transmissions between a base station and a mobile device, based on data from at least one motion sensor that is local to the mobile device
Data Source
AI summary
The specification describes apparatus comprising means for: estimating a propagation delay of transmissions between a base station and a mobile device based on data from at least one motion sensor that is local to the mobile device; determining updated timing information based on the estimated propagation delay; and updating an internal clock of the mobile device in accordance with the updated timing information.