TSN Translator for 5G Time Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems face challenges in providing efficient time synchronization across terminal devices connected through 5G networks, particularly in supporting Time Sensitive Networks (TSN) and ensuring precise clock synchronization for various applications.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method using Network-side TSN Translators (NW-TT) and Device-side TSN Translators (DS-TT) within the 5G system, which generates and transmits synchronization messages based on 5G capabilities, allowing for efficient time synchronization across TSN systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If TSN synchronization messages are transmitted through the 5G core network using existing PTP protocols, then time synchronization capability is provided to TSN systems, but network load and terminal power consumption increase due to unnecessary PTP message traffic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a TSN Translator as an intermediary device that converts TSN synchronization messages into 5G-compatible formats (such as NTP or custom synchronization messages). This translator acts as a bridge between the TSN network and the 5G core network, enabling synchronization without requiring terminals to process native PTP messages, thereby reducing their power consumption while maintaining synchronization reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the protocol parameters by transforming PTP-specific message formats and timing mechanisms into 5G-compatible formats. The TSN Translator modifies message structures, timing references, and synchronization intervals to match 5G network characteristics, allowing synchronization to function effectively in the 5G environment without requiring terminals to support complex PTP protocols
2Reliability
If TSN synchronization messages are transmitted through the 5G core network, then time synchronization is achieved, but network complexity increases due to protocol adaptation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the synchronization function into separate components: the TSN Translator handles protocol conversion and message adaptation, while the 5G core network handles message routing and delivery. This segmentation isolates the complexity of protocol adaptation to a specific network element rather than requiring the entire network or all terminals to support multiple protocols simultaneously
3Adaptability or versatility
If terminals wirelessly connect to TSN systems through 5G networks, then mobility and wireless access are enabled, but synchronization precision deteriorates compared to wired connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary synchronization actions where the TSN Translator pre-calculates and compensates for wireless transmission delays before messages reach the terminal. By anticipating and correcting for variable wireless conditions in advance, the system maintains synchronization precision that would otherwise be lost in mobile wireless environments
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a communication method and system for converging a 5th-Generation (5G) communication system for supporting higher data rates beyond a 4th-Generation (4G) system with a technology for Internet of Things (IoT). The present disclosure may be applied to intelligent services based on the 5G communication technology and the IoT-related technology, such as smart home, smart building, smart city, smart car, connected car, health care, digital education, smart retail, security and safety services. Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for providing time synchronization between wiredly or wirelessly connected terminals by expanding a function for supporting a Time Sensitive Network (TSN) in a 5G System (5GS) of 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP).