Single-Satellite GNSS Time Synchronization in Weak Signal Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional GNSS time synchronization systems require communication with at least four satellites, which is impractical in weak signal environments, such as indoor locations, and cannot achieve synchronization with only a single satellite.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a GNSS receiver to synchronize with a single satellite by providing the network element's three-dimensional coordinates to the receiver, allowing time synchronization even in weak signal environments, using a management system to remotely supply and validate the location, and enabling synchronization with only one satellite.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional GNSS time synchronization systems are used requiring communication with at least four satellites, then time synchronization can be achieved in open sky environments, but the system becomes impractical in weak signal environments such as indoor locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by remotely supplying the network element's location information to the GNSS receiver before time synchronization occurs. This pre-provisioning of location data enables the receiver to proceed with time synchronization using minimal satellite signals, thereby resolving the contradiction between achieving reliable synchronization and adapting to weak signal environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The management system acts as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the network element and the GNSS receiver. By remotely supplying location information, the management system enables the GNSS receiver to function in weak signal environments where conventional four-satellite synchronization would fail, thus improving both reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If communication with only a single GNSS satellite is used, then the system becomes feasible in weak signal environments and indoor locations, but time synchronization accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
By pre-supplying the network element's location to the GNSS receiver, the system enables single-satellite synchronization while maintaining accuracy. The location information acts as a compensating factor that allows the receiver to calculate accurate time synchronization even with minimal satellite signals, thus resolving the contradiction between feasibility and precision.
3Measurement precision
If additional positioning systems or reconfiguration are implemented to improve synchronization in indoor environments, then accuracy can be enhanced, but device complexity and implementation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The management system performs multiple functions: it remotely manages the network element, validates location information, and supplies location data to the GNSS receiver. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate positioning systems or complex reconfiguration, thereby improving accuracy while maintaining low system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically supplying location information to the GNSS receiver through the management system. This eliminates the need for manual configuration or additional positioning infrastructure, allowing the network element to achieve accurate synchronization autonomously in indoor environments without increasing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for time synchronization of a network element including a GNSS receiver operative to receive at least one signal from at least one but less than four GNSS satellites, a locator operative to supply a location of a network element including the GNSS receiver to the GNSS receiver and a time synchronization calculator operative to time synchronize the network element with the GNSS satellites based on the at least one signal and the location.