Time Synchronization Service Control by UE Coverage Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems lack the ability to activate and deactivate a time synchronization service for user equipment (UE) based on its movement into and out of a specific coverage area (CA), which is essential for efficient time synchronization management.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method where a time synchronization entity (TSE) or data management entity (DME) receives requests for UE identification and coverage area information, triggering notifications from access and mobility management entities (AME) to activate or deactivate the time synchronization service when the UE enters or leaves the specified area, utilizing existing 5G core network functions like AMF, UDM, and PCF to manage UE mobility events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If time synchronization service is continuously activated for all UEs, then time synchronization precision is maintained, but network resource consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The time synchronization service is made dynamic by activating it only when UEs enter the coverage area and deactivating when they leave. The TSE subscribes to mobility event notifications from AME and dynamically manages service activation/deactivation based on real-time UE presence in the coverage area, transforming a static continuous service into a dynamic on-demand service.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting UE entry into the coverage area through mobility event notifications and autonomously activating the time synchronization service without manual intervention. The TSE independently manages service lifecycle based on subscription data and event triggers.
2Loss of energy
If time synchronization service is deactivated to save resources, then resource efficiency improves, but time synchronization availability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by subscribing to mobility event notifications from AME. When a UE enters the coverage area, the TSE receives a notification and activates the time synchronization service. When the UE leaves, another notification triggers service deactivation. This closed-loop feedback ensures the service is available exactly when needed while optimizing resource usage.
Solution Approach 2:
The TSE performs preliminary actions by subscribing to mobility event notifications in advance and preparing to activate the time synchronization service immediately when a UE enters the coverage area. This ensures rapid service activation without delay, maintaining availability while optimizing resource efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If manual activation of time synchronization service is used, then service control simplicity is maintained, but service response time to UE mobility increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical process of service activation is replaced with an automated electronic system. The TSE subscribes to mobility event notifications from AME and automatically triggers service activation/deactivation based on UE movement. This substitution of manual operation with automated event-driven control eliminates delays while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized service interfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If time synchronization service is activated for all UEs in network, then service coverage is maximized, but device complexity for service management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The service management approach is localized to specific coverage areas rather than applying uniformly across the entire network. The TSE manages time synchronization services specifically for UEs within its designated coverage area, subscribing to mobility events localized to that area. This local化管理 reduces overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive coverage through distributed TSE instances.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method 600 performed by a TSE (e.g., a TSCTSF) The method includes receiving a first request comprising i) an ID associated with at least a first UE (e.g., the ID is associated only with the first UE, the ID is associated with a group of UEs that includes the first UE, or the ID identifies any UE) and ii) coverage area (CA) information specifying a CA. In response to receiving the create service request, the TSE either: i) invokes a subscription service to receive a notification whenever the first UE enters (moves into) or leaves (moves out of) an AoI, or ii) sends to a PCF a second request comprising the CA information, wherein the second requests is configured to cause the PCF to invoke the subscription service to receive a notification whenever the first UE moves into or moves out of an AoI, wherein the AoI is identical to the CA or the AoI is a subset of the CA.