5G QoS Flow Uncertainty Attributes for TSN Clock Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The inaccuracy and uncertainty in relaying the 5G system clock from a gNodeB to wireless devices (WDs) due to RF propagation delay, and the lack of standardized methods for determining which WDs need 5G system clock information and how to compensate for downlink propagation delay, especially in time-sensitive networking (TSN) scenarios, are unresolved in existing 3GPP standards.
Innovation Solution
Implementing methods for a 5G network node to determine which WDs require TSN GM clocks and using dedicated 5G QoS flows for accurate clock distribution, allowing WDs to perform ingress or egress timestamping based on received clock information, and employing legacy or new RTT procedures for downlink propagation delay compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If QoS parameters are modified during PDU session establishment or modification, then QoS flow characteristics can be adjusted, but uncertainty attributes cannot be changed which limits flexible QoS management
Solution Approach 1:
The QoS parameter set is segmented into two distinct categories: deterministic parameters (such as 5QI, ARP, GFBR, MFBR) and uncertainty parameters (such as packet loss probability, jitter, delay). This segmentation allows independent modification of each category, enabling flexible QoS management while maintaining reliability control through separate handling mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic modification capability for uncertainty parameters during PDU session establishment and modification procedures. The network device can dynamically adjust uncertainty parameters based on current network conditions and service requirements, transforming the previously static QoS parameter set into a flexible, adaptable configuration that responds to changing demands.
2Device complexity
If only deterministic QoS parameters are supported, then QoS management is simplified, but services requiring uncertainty attributes (e.g., packet loss probability, jitter) cannot be properly managed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the QoS parameter framework to support both deterministic and uncertainty attributes within a unified PDU session management architecture. The same session establishment and modification procedures handle both parameter types, making the system universal and capable of supporting diverse services ranging from traditional bandwidth-guaranteed services to modern real-time services requiring packet loss and jitter control.
Solution Approach 2:
The network device acts as an intermediary that translates service requirements into appropriate QoS parameter configurations. When a service requires uncertainty attribute management, the network device introduces the relevant uncertainty parameters (packet loss probability, jitter, delay) into the QoS parameter set, bridging the gap between simple deterministic management and complex service requirements.
3Productivity
If QoS parameters are configured per PDU session, then resource allocation is efficient, but inability to modify uncertainty parameters reduces response flexibility to changing service demands
Solution Approach 1:
The patent configures both deterministic and uncertainty QoS parameters during the preliminary PDU session establishment phase, preparing the complete QoS parameter set in advance. This preliminary configuration includes setting up uncertainty parameters (packet loss probability, jitter, delay) alongside traditional parameters, enabling the system to respond flexibly to changing demands without requiring session re-establishment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic modification of the QoS parameter set during PDU session modification procedures. When service demands change, the network device can adjust both deterministic parameters (5QI, ARP) and uncertainty parameters (packet loss probability, jitter, delay) within the existing session, providing operational flexibility while maintaining the efficiency of per-session resource allocation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method, network node and core network node are provided. According to one aspect, a network node (16) configured to communicate with a wireless device (22) via an access network (12) is provided. The network node (16) includes processing circuitry (68) configured to receive at least one parameter from a core network node (14) where the at least one parameter indicates a level of synchronization accuracy that is required for a time sensitive network, TSN, clock in a TSN (23), and implement one of a plurality of methods in the access network (12) for distributing access network clock information to the wireless device (22) and for determining downlink propagation delay information based on the level of synchronization accuracy for the TSN clock where each method is associated with a different level of synchronization accuracy for the access network clock.