Relay Node Timing Synchronization for Precise Downlink Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
In dense cellular networks, in-band relay systems face challenges with timing synchronization precision due to the half-duplex constraint and the lack of precise clocks in some relay nodes, affecting the performance of 5G NR systems.
Innovation Solution
A timing synchronization method that involves a relay node receiving timing information from multiple parent nodes with higher precision, using weights and averaging techniques to determine an accurate downlink transmit timing, reducing signaling, and allowing for adjustments and updates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a relay node uses a single parent node for timing synchronization, then the device complexity is reduced, but the timing synchronization precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines timing information from multiple parent nodes (single-parent and dual-parent) into a unified timing synchronization mechanism. The relay node receives timing information from both parent nodes and merges them through weighted averaging to achieve higher precision timing synchronization while managing device complexity through standardized processing procedures
2Measurement precision
If a relay node receives timing information from multiple parent nodes, then the timing synchronization precision is improved, but the signaling overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of timing information reception by allowing selective reception based on configuration. The network can configure whether the relay node receives timing information from one or two parent nodes, and the relay node adapts its reception behavior accordingly, optimizing signaling overhead while maintaining precision benefits when needed
3Manufacturing precision
If a relay node without precise clock determines downlink sending time, then the deployment cost is reduced, but the downlink transmit timing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces parent nodes as intermediary timing reference sources for relay nodes that lack precise clocks. Instead of requiring expensive GPS or atomic clocks in relay nodes, the system uses the precise clocks of parent nodes (which are closer to the network core and more likely to have precise timing) as intermediaries to provide timing references, thereby achieving precise downlink transmit timing without expensive hardware
Data Source
AI summary
This application provides a timing synchronization method and an apparatus, to improve precision of a downlink transmit timing of a relay node. The method includes: The first node receives first indication information from a donor node, where the first indication information is used to indicate information about a plurality of second nodes, and the second node is a parent node of the first node. The first node receives a plurality of pieces of timing information from the plurality of second nodes. The first node determines a first downlink transmit timing of the first node based on the plurality of pieces of timing information.