Network Device Selects Terminal as TSN Grand Master Clock Node

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Solution Overview

Problem

In 5G systems, selecting a master clock node for multiple TSN clock domains to ensure synchronization is challenging due to varying clock accuracy and local oscillators among terminal devices.

Innovation Solution

A method where a network device determines a target terminal device as a grand master (GM) clock node for multiple TSN clock domains, using information such as channel quality, location, and movement information to optimize selection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple terminal devices with different clock accuracy and local oscillators are used in TSN clock domains, then device versatility and coverage are improved, but clock synchronization accuracy and system reliability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice versatilityVSAvoidclock synchronization accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a master clock node as an intermediary between terminal devices with different clock accuracies and the TSN synchronization system. This master clock node receives synchronization information from external sources and distributes it to terminal devices, mediating the synchronization process to ensure uniform timing across diverse devices with varying local oscillator qualities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent assigns different roles and functions to different nodes based on their capabilities. Terminal devices with higher clock accuracy are selected as master clock nodes, while devices with lower accuracy serve as slave nodes. This local quality differentiation allows the system to optimize synchronization performance by placing critical timing functions at nodes with superior clock characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Area of stationary object

If terminal devices with varying local oscillators are deployed across multiple TSN clock domains, then system coverage and adaptability are improved, but synchronization stability and reliability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem coverageVSAvoidsynchronization stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal synchronization architecture where master clock nodes can serve multiple TSN clock domains simultaneously. A single master clock node can provide synchronization services to multiple slave nodes across different clock domains, enabling the system to expand coverage while maintaining consistent synchronization standards through a standardized master-slave relationship model.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Productivity

If terminal devices with different clock accuracies are used, then device availability and system flexibility are improved, but the difficulty of selecting appropriate master clock nodes increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice availabilityVSAvoidmaster clock node selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where terminal devices report their clock accuracy characteristics to the network, and the system uses this information to dynamically select appropriate master clock nodes. This feedback loop enables automated selection based on actual device performance rather than manual configuration, reducing the complexity of master node selection while maintaining high device availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12323933B2Method for wireless communication and network device
Publication Date: 2025.06.03 GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP LTD
  • US12323933B2 patent drawing
  • US12323933B2 patent drawing
  • US12323933B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods for wireless communication and a network device are provided. The method includes the following. A first network device determines at least one target terminal device as a GM clock node for multiple TSN clock domains.