TSN Propagation Delay Compensation for Accurate UE Timestamping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current techniques for compensating for signal propagation delays in wireless networks, particularly in 5G networks, are inadequate for ensuring accurate timing information delivery in Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) environments, especially for mobile user equipment (UEs) with varying propagation distances.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves methods for supporting timestamping of TSN messages received by a UE, including sending information about available downlink propagation delay (PD) compensation methods and values, and compensating the system clock time based on this information to ensure accurate timestamping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If propagation delay compensation is applied in wireless TSN networks, then timing accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases due to multiple compensation methods and selection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting propagation delay compensation values based on varying wireless channel conditions, UE mobility states, and distance measurements. The system modifies compensation parameters (time offsets, delay values) in response to changing environmental factors, thereby maintaining timing accuracy without requiring a fixed complex compensation mechanism for all scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the UE to dynamically select among multiple propagation delay compensation methods (e.g., RACH-based, RSRP-based, GPS-based, network-configured) based on current channel conditions and mobility states. The compensation mechanism transitions from static to adaptive, allowing the system to optimize between accuracy and complexity in real-time depending on operational context.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple propagation delay compensation methods are provided for UE selection, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple available methods and selection criteria
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the compensation method selection into distinct categories based on UE mobility states (mobile vs. stationary) and channel conditions. Each segment has predefined suitable compensation methods, reducing the decision complexity. For example, RACH-based methods are assigned to mobile UEs while GPS-based methods are assigned to stationary UEs with GPS capability, creating manageable segments rather than requiring evaluation of all methods in all scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the UE to autonomously select and apply appropriate propagation delay compensation methods based on its own mobility state, capabilities, and measured channel conditions. The UE independently evaluates available methods and selects the most suitable one without requiring continuous network control, thereby reducing signaling overhead and simplifying the overall system while maintaining adaptability.
3Measurement precision
If propagation delay compensation is implemented for mobile UEs, then timing accuracy is improved, but measurement precision becomes more difficult due to varying propagation distances and channel conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing reference signals (RSRP measurements, RACH procedures, network-configured reference values) as mediators between the UE and the propagation delay compensation process. These intermediaries provide standardized measurement mechanisms that simplify the complex task of directly measuring and compensating for varying propagation delays in mobile scenarios. The network also acts as an intermediary by providing configuration information and reference values that guide the compensation process.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include methods for a network node in a RAN to support timestamping of time-sensitive network (TSN) messages received by a UE. Such methods include sending one of the following information to the UE for use in timestamping of TSN messages: a second indication of one of multiple available downlink propagation delay (DL PD) compensation methods that is selected by the network node the UE; or a DL PD compensation value, determined by the network node based on one of the available DL PD compensation methods selected by the UE on a different one of the available DL PD compensation methods selected by the network node for the UE. Such methods also include sending, to the UE proximately after sending the information, an indication of a system clock time, associated with the RAN, to be compensated by the UE based on the information.