Network Element Timing Distribution via DHCP Assistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In data transfer networks, devices struggle to produce accurate timing and position information using satellite signals, especially in urban environments with limited satellite visibility, requiring assistance information that increases complexity and cost when each device needs a dedicated A-GPS chip.
Innovation Solution
A network element and DHCP server that connect to a data transfer network to obtain assistance information via host configuration data, allowing the network element to produce timing information using satellite signals without needing an A-GPS chip, and transmit this information within the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If each GNSS-device is provided with a dedicated A-GPS chip to obtain assistance information, then the device can produce timing information in weak satellite signal environments, but the complexity and cost of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the A-GPS functionality with the DHCP server by integrating the assistance information distribution mechanism into the existing DHCP infrastructure. The DHCP server now serves dual purposes: providing both standard network configuration parameters and A-GPS assistance information, thereby eliminating the need for separate A-GPS chips in each device while maintaining timing accuracy in weak signal environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The DHCP server is extended to perform multiple functions: it continues to provide standard host configuration data while simultaneously distributing A-GPS assistance information to GNSS-devices. This multi-functional approach allows a single network element to serve both traditional networking needs and satellite-based timing/positioning requirements, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If each GNSS-device is provided with a dedicated A-GPS chip to obtain assistance information, then the device can produce timing information in weak satellite signal environments, but the cost of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the A-GPS assistance information distribution function into the existing DHCP server infrastructure. By utilizing the already-deployed DHCP server capabilities, the system eliminates the need for expensive dedicated A-GPS chips in each device, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining the ability to provide accurate timing information in weak satellite signal environments.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of duplicating A-GPS functionality in each device through dedicated chips, the patent uses the DHCP network infrastructure to copy and distribute assistance information to multiple GNSS-devices simultaneously. This approach leverages the existing network resources to provide the same functionality that would otherwise require expensive hardware duplication in each device.
3Measurement precision
If a GNSS-device uses outdoor antenna with clear sky view to receive strong satellite signals, then the device can obtain sufficient satellite signals, but the device cannot be deployed in urban canyon environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the DHCP server pre-distribute A-GPS assistance information (including almanac data, ephemeris data, and position data) to GNSS-devices before the devices attempt to acquire satellite signals. This head start enables devices in urban canyon environments with limited satellite visibility to quickly obtain timing information using the pre-received assistance data, rather than waiting for weak signals to be acquired from scratch.
Solution Approach 2:
The DHCP server acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between satellite signals and GNSS-devices in difficult environments. By receiving and processing A-GPS assistance information from external sources and then distributing it to devices via the network, the DHCP server mediates the signal acquisition process, enabling devices in urban canyons to obtain timing information without requiring direct line-of-sight to multiple satellites.
Data Source
AI summary
A network element is provided that includes a signal interface for receiving satellite signals transmitted by a satellite system and a processing system for producing the timing information based on the satellite signals and on assistance information received from a data transfer network. The network element transmits the timing information to the data transfer network in accordance with a timing transfer protocol. At a start-up, the network element requests a dynamic host configuration protocol server to send host configuration data containing a protocol address to be associated with the network element. The network element reads, from the host configuration data, information enabling the network element to get aware of the assistance information and obtains the assistance information in accordance with the read information. Thus, the dynamic host configuration protocol server enables the network element to operate as a network-assisted source of satellite-based timing.