Wireless Device Timing Reference for Sidelink Propagation Delay
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current timing reference distribution methods in wireless communications networks, such as those using the 3GPP Timing Advance command, struggle to provide sufficient accuracy for timing references in subsequent wireless devices, especially in Industrial Internet-of-Things (IIoT) applications where precise synchronization is critical.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for improving timing references in wireless communications networks by estimating the propagation delay of Sidelink (SL) transmissions between a first and a second wireless device, and then transmitting timing reference information based on a timing reference from a time reference node, incorporating this estimated propagation delay.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If timing reference is distributed from source network node to wireless device over radio interface, then timing reference can be provided to wireless device, but propagation delay causes timing inaccuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the wireless device estimate the propagation delay before using the timing reference. The device calculates the round-trip time for signals and derives propagation delay information in advance, then applies this compensation to the received timing reference (gPTP) to pre-correct for the delay effect, ensuring accurate timing synchronization.
2Measurement precision
If Timing Advance command is used for propagation delay compensation, then uplink timing can be synchronized, but timing reference accuracy for sidelink transmissions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the wireless device itself as an intermediary to adapt the network-based Timing Advance mechanism for sidelink use. The device receives gPTP timing references from the network, estimates its own propagation delay for sidelink communications, and combines these to generate accurate timing references for other wireless devices in the sidelink, effectively mediating between network timing and device-to-device timing requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If timing reference is relayed by wireless device to other wireless devices, then subsequent devices can obtain timing reference, but synchronization accuracy degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by having each wireless device in the sidelink estimate its own propagation delay to other devices and provide this delay information back to them. This feedback loop allows receiving devices to compensate for the specific propagation delays of their individual links, preventing the accumulation of timing errors that would otherwise occur in multi-hop timing reference distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a network node (110) in a wireless communications network (100) for enabling a timing reference in a second wireless device (122) for use in Sidelink, SL, transmissions over a SL communication link (133) with a first wireless device (121) is provided. The network node estimates (201) a propagation delay of SL transmissions over the SL communication link (133) between the first and second wireless device (122). Then, the network node (110) transmits, to the second wireless device (122), timing reference information based on a timing reference originating from a time reference node in a wireless communications network (100), and on the estimated propagation delay of SL transmissions over the SL communication link (133) between the first and second wireless device (122). A network node (110) for enabling a timing reference in a second wireless device (122) for use in SL transmissions over a SL communication link (133) with a first wireless device (121) is also provided. A first wireless (121), a second wireless device (122) and methods therein are also provided, as well as, computer programs and carriers.