Wireless Synchronization Using Adaptive Propagation Delay Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems struggle to achieve high-precision time synchronization between terminals and networks, particularly in time-sensitive networks (TSN) like industrial IoT systems, due to limitations in propagation delay compensation (PDC), which is crucial for services like factory automation and electrical power distribution.
Innovation Solution
The terminal device or network device can trigger propagation delay compensation (PDC) processes at appropriate times, using methods like RX-TX time difference measurement or timing advance, to ensure accurate synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If propagation delay compensation is performed using conventional methods, then time synchronization is achieved, but the synchronization accuracy cannot meet the stringent requirement of less than 900 ns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the terminal device send a first message to trigger PDC execution before the actual time synchronization is needed. This advance triggering allows the network device to prepare and execute the propagation delay compensation in advance, ensuring that the compensation is performed at the optimal moment to achieve both high accuracy (<900 ns) and reliability for TSN services.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through the exchange of multiple messages between terminal and network devices. The terminal sends a first message to trigger PDC, the network device responds with configuration information and executes PDC, then sends second message with PDC execution result, and the terminal sends third message to confirm completion. This closed-loop feedback ensures accurate synchronization while maintaining reliability through verification.
2Measurement precision
If PDC is triggered at inappropriate times, then synchronization process is simplified, but synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the PDC triggering mechanism adaptive rather than static. The terminal device dynamically determines when to send the first message based on current system conditions and timing requirements. The network device dynamically adjusts its response based on the triggering conditions and system state, allowing optimal synchronization accuracy without requiring overly complex predetermined scheduling mechanisms.
3Measurement precision
If multiple message exchanges are used for PDC triggering and execution, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing messages that serve multiple functions. The first message not only triggers PDC execution but also carries timing information and synchronization requirements. The second message from the network device provides both PDC execution results and updated synchronization parameters. The third message confirms completion while also serving as a synchronization validation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated messages, balancing accuracy requirements with communication efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A wireless communication method, a terminal device, and a network device, facilitating implementation of precise synchronization of the terminal device and the network device. The method comprises: a terminal device executes a related operation for propagation delay compensation (PDC) in the case that a first PDC execution condition is satisfied.