Terrestrial Non-Terrestrial Network Synchronization via Satellite Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems face challenges in synchronizing terrestrial networks with non-terrestrial networks, which prevents them from using the same frequency, leading to inefficient frequency utilization and potential interference.
Innovation Solution
The method involves acquiring time synchronization between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks by configuring reference times at base stations and satellites, allowing them to operate on the same frequency band without exclusive frequency allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If terrestrial network and non-terrestrial network use different frequencies, then interference between networks is avoided, but frequency resource utilization efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the frequency resource sharing problem into two phases: time synchronization acquisition phase and normal operation phase. During the acquisition phase, frequency offsets are measured and compensated, while during normal operation, the networks share frequencies without causing interference. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both frequency reuse and interference avoidance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the timing parameter (time synchronization) to enable frequency sharing. By adjusting and synchronizing the timing relationships between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, the system allows frequency reuse while preventing interference through precise time coordination of transmissions.
2Productivity
If terrestrial network and non-terrestrial network share the same frequency, then frequency resource utilization efficiency is improved, but interference between networks occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces time synchronization as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between frequency sharing and interference avoidance. By using timing relationships as a controlling intermediary, the system enables frequency reuse while preventing harmful interference through coordinated transmission timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary time synchronization and frequency offset measurement before actual frequency sharing begins. This preliminary action establishes the timing relationships and compensates for frequency offsets in advance, ensuring that subsequent frequency sharing operations can proceed without interference.
3Adaptability or versatility
If time synchronization is acquired between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, then frequency sharing is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where base stations autonomously measure frequency offsets from non-terrestrial network signals and automatically apply compensation. This self-service approach reduces the need for complex centralized synchronization control, thereby lowering system complexity while enabling frequency sharing.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of a base station may comprise: receiving a link signal from a satellite; obtaining a first reference time of the satellite from the link signal; configuring a second reference time of the base station based on the first reference time; and transmitting a downlink signal to a terminal based on the second reference time, wherein the satellite belongs to a non-terrestrial network and the base station belongs to a terrestrial network.