Ribs Based Synchronization Service for Wireless Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in providing reliable and accurate synchronization, especially for small cells that cannot see radio signals from macro cells operated by the same operator, and when existing mechanisms for inter-node communication are not available or unreliable.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves leveraging Radio Interface Based Synchronization (RIBS) and a dedicated architecture to offer synchronization as a service, enabling on-demand synchronization signals on radio beams, and facilitating communication between access networks and radio access nodes using a network node with processing circuits and communication interface circuits to select and negotiate synchronization sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional synchronization methods (GNSS, PTP) are used, then accurate timing can be achieved in ideal conditions, but they become infeasible for small cells or when infrastructure is unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network node as an intermediary that facilitates synchronization between access network nodes. This mediator collects synchronization status information from multiple nodes, determines optimal synchronization sources, and coordinates the synchronization process, enabling reliable synchronization in scenarios where direct GNSS or PTP connections are unavailable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables access network nodes to autonomously determine their synchronization status and select appropriate synchronization sources based on received information. Each node can independently evaluate its own synchronization requirements and make decisions about which neighboring nodes to use as synchronization references, reducing dependency on centralized control.
2Area of stationary object
If small cells cannot see macro cell signals, then synchronization coverage is limited, but extending coverage requires additional infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the synchronization function into distributed components across multiple access network nodes. Instead of relying on a single macro cell to provide synchronization to all small cells, each small cell can independently identify and synchronize with suitable neighboring nodes, creating a distributed synchronization network that extends coverage without additional centralized infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables access network nodes to serve dual purposes: providing communication services and acting as synchronization sources for other nodes. This multi-functionality allows existing infrastructure to be used for both data transmission and synchronization, eliminating the need for separate synchronization infrastructure and extending coverage organically.
3Reliability
If existing inter-node communication mechanisms are unavailable, then synchronization coordination fails, but implementing new mechanisms increases signaling overhead
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges synchronization status information exchange with existing communication protocols and procedures. By integrating synchronization coordination into existing inter-node communication frameworks rather than creating separate dedicated signaling channels, the solution achieves reliable coordination while minimizing additional signaling overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements selective information exchange where nodes only share synchronization status information when necessary for coordination. Rather than continuous full-duplex signaling, the system activates communication only when synchronization decisions need to be made or updated, reducing overall signaling overhead while maintaining coordination reliability.
Data Source
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AI summary
In one aspect, a network node configured to arrange a synchronization service for a target network access node receives a service request from the target network access node for a synchronization service to be provided to the target network access node and selects the synchronization source node, responsive to the service request. The network node sends a response towards the target network access node regarding the synchronization service to be provided by the synchronization source node.