Uplink Synchronization Alert for Non-Terrestrial Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
In non-terrestrial communication networks, devices face challenges in maintaining uplink synchronization due to the expiry of validity periods for uplink synchronization data, leading to uncertainty in synchronization status for network nodes, which affects optimal scheduling of data transmissions.
Innovation Solution
A system where devices transmit alerts for expected expiry of uplink synchronization data validity periods, allowing network nodes to either pause data transmissions or send on-demand updates, ensuring re-establishment of synchronization and maintaining communication through pre-scheduled or on-demand uplink synchronization assistance signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If devices continue data transmissions after uplink synchronization data validity period expires, then network node scheduling remains active, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates leading to communication errors
Solution Approach 1:
The device transmits an alert signal to the network node before the uplink synchronization data validity period expires. This preliminary action allows the network node to be aware of the impending synchronization expiry and take appropriate actions (such as pausing scheduling or providing updated synchronization data) before the actual expiry occurs, thus maintaining both transmission continuity and synchronization accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the device monitors its uplink synchronization status and actively communicates with the network node. When the device detects that synchronization data is approaching expiry, it sends an alert feedback signal to the network node, which then responds by either pausing scheduling or providing updated synchronization assistance signals, creating a closed-loop control system
2Reliability
If network node pauses data transmissions upon receiving synchronization expiry alert, then synchronization accuracy is maintained, but transmission productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of pausing all data transmissions, the network node applies partial action by pausing only the scheduling of new data transmissions while allowing ongoing transmissions to complete. Alternatively, the node may provide on-demand uplink synchronization assistance signals to specific devices that need synchronization updates, rather than universally pausing all communications
Solution Approach 2:
The network node dynamically adjusts its scheduling behavior based on the specific situation. Upon receiving an alert, the node can choose between different responses: pausing scheduling for a limited duration, providing updated synchronization data, or allowing transmissions to continue if the synchronization expiry is not imminent. This dynamic adaptation optimizes both reliability and productivity
Data Source
AI summary
Various example embodiments relate to uplink synchronization. An apparatus may receive, from a device, an alert of expected expiry of at least one validity period of uplink synchronization data. In response to receiving the alert, the apparatus may pause scheduling of data transmissions for the device, or transmit, to the device, an on-demand uplink synchronization assistance signal comprising updated uplink synchronization data.