On-Demand Timing Services for Private 5G Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Private 5G networks face challenges in obtaining accurate timing and synchronization services without the high costs and complexity associated with integrating high-precision GPS systems, requiring a more efficient and cost-effective solution.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing external internet service providers (ISPs) connected to the private 5G deployment to provide timing and synchronization services, allowing selection based on predetermined metrics such as quality, cost, and stability, and dynamically switching providers as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-precision GPS systems are integrated to provide timing and synchronization services, then timing precision and synchronization accuracy are improved, but system complexity and deployment cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary entity (external timing server or network infrastructure) that provides timing and synchronization services through existing communication networks. Instead of directly integrating GPS receivers into each device, the system uses network-based timing protocols (such as NTP, PTP, or 5G network slicing for timing) to deliver synchronized time references, thereby reducing hardware complexity while maintaining precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/GPS-based timing systems with electronic/network-based timing distribution mechanisms. By substituting physical GPS antenna and receiver hardware with software-based timing protocols and network infrastructure, the system achieves comparable timing precision without the complexity of integrating high-precision GPS systems into each device
2Measurement precision
If high-precision GPS systems are integrated to provide timing and synchronization services, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing communication network infrastructure (5G networks, internet backbone, cellular towers) that already provides universal coverage and can be used for multiple purposes including timing and synchronization services. This multi-functional use of existing infrastructure eliminates the need for separate GPS hardware deployments, significantly reducing deployment costs while maintaining synchronization accuracy through network-based timing protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables timing and synchronization services to be obtained from existing network providers (ISPs, mobile carriers, timing service providers) that already maintain precise time references as part of their network operations. Organizations can subscribe to these services without investing in their own GPS infrastructure, allowing them to self-service their timing needs through commercial or public network resources
3Reliability
If internal high-precision GPS systems are deployed, then timing service reliability is improved, but operational flexibility and adaptability decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic timing service selection where the system can adaptively choose between multiple timing sources (external network providers, local oscillators, alternative synchronization methods) based on current network conditions, service requirements, and performance metrics. This dynamic approach maintains reliability by switching to alternative sources when needed while providing flexibility to optimize for different operational scenarios
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows changing of timing service parameters such as precision requirements, update frequencies, and source selection criteria based on varying operational needs. The system can adjust timing service characteristics dynamically without hardware changes, enabling adaptation to different applications ranging from low-precision consumer devices to high-precision industrial applications using the same infrastructure
Data Source
AI summary
In an embodiment, a method for establishing timing and synchronization services for a private fifth-generation (5G) deployment. The method includes sending, by a local device, a request to a first source of timing and synchronization services and a second source of timing and synchronization services. The first source and second source are connected to the local device, and the local device receives a first offer for timing and synchronization services from the first source and a second offer for timing and synchronization services from the second source. After receiving the first and second offers, the local device compares the first and second offers to predetermined metrics. Then, the local device requests that the first source provide the timing and synchronization services. The local device then receives the timing and synchronization services from the first source.