Packet Header Time Information for TSN 5G Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for processing time-sensitive data in mobile communication networks, such as those based on the IEEE 802.1Q-218 Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) standard, face challenges in ensuring deterministic low latency, low delay variation, and low packet loss, especially when integrating with 5G networks, where synchronization and timing are critical for effective data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a network element adds time information, including reception, transmission, and delivery times, to packet headers using protocols like GTP or SDAP, allowing for precise scheduling and synchronization across the network, ensuring that time-sensitive data is delivered within specified minimum and maximum time frames, and includes mechanisms for discarding packets if delivery is not possible within these times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If time information is added to packet headers for precise scheduling and synchronization, then time sensitivity and delivery reliability are improved, but device complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and inserting time information (such as arrival time, transmission time, and deadline) into packet headers before transmission. This allows network elements to perform deterministic scheduling and synchronization without complex real-time calculations, thereby improving delivery reliability while controlling processing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses time information as an intermediary element embedded in packet headers to enable synchronization between network elements. This intermediary carries timing data that facilitates coordinated processing across the network without requiring direct complex interactions between network elements, thus improving reliability while managing complexity.
2Reliability
If packets are discarded when delivery within time frame is not possible, then time sensitivity is improved, but loss of data occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by monitoring time-related parameters (current time, estimated arrival time, deadline) in packet headers and making discard decisions based on whether these parameters indicate feasible delivery within the required time frame. This ensures time-sensitive data delivery guarantees while systematically managing packet loss through parameter-based decision-making.
3Reliability
If synchronization based on precise timing information is implemented, then delay variation is reduced, but measurement precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating timing parameters (such as expected arrival times and deadlines) and embedding them in packet headers before transmission. This allows network elements to perform synchronization based on these pre-computed values rather than requiring high-precision real-time measurements, thereby reducing delay variation while managing measurement precision requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for processing a packet in a mobile communication network and a network element for performing the same. A first network element may receive a first data packet to be transmitted to a second network element via a third network element and add a header to the first data packet. The first network element may add time information associated with the first data packet to the header and transmit the first data packet with the header to the third network element.