Audio Device Synchronization via Multicast Timestamp Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing audio device synchronization methods face challenges in accurately synchronizing multiple devices due to timer value differences and transmission delays, especially when using access points, which can lead to inaccuracies and inefficiencies in synchronizing audio outputs across networks.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using multicast transmissions to synchronize audio devices by exchanging timestamp data, allowing each device to determine its relative timer value offset from a designated synchronization master device, thereby reducing the impact of transmission delays and improving synchronization accuracy through linear regression and convex hull algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If timestamp data is exchanged via access points to synchronize audio devices, then synchronization coverage is improved, but transmission delays and inaccuracies increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the synchronization process by identifying a specific audio device as a synchronization master that directly exchanges timestamp data with other devices, separating the master-slave synchronization path from general access point communication. This segmentation allows precise timing control between master and slave devices while maintaining flexibility in network topology through the access point.
2Reliability
If timer values are exchanged between audio devices, then synchronization is achieved, but timer value differences and transmission delays cause inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by having the synchronization master device receive timestamp data from slave devices, calculate timing offsets based on these timestamps, and adjust the timing of audio outputs accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism continuously corrects for transmission delays and timer value differences, maintaining high synchronization accuracy despite network variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple audio devices communicate via access point, then network flexibility is improved, but transmission delay variability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by establishing a direct timestamp exchange mechanism between the synchronization master and slave devices that operates independently of access point transmission delays. The master device proactively sends timestamp data to slaves and pre-calculates timing offsets, allowing audio outputs to be synchronized in advance without being affected by variable access point delays.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are techniques for synchronizing multiple devices within a group to enable performance of a synchronized action through the exchange of time data. A first device provides a timestamp or other time data to multiple other devices via a multicast transmission. Each of the other devices determines a time at which the timestamp was received and exchanges this data with one another. Based on the determined times, the other devices may be synchronized relative to a selected synchronization master device. One of the other devices may then determine a from the first device, and determine the time at which the timestamp from the first device was received, enabling the first device to be synchronized with the synchronization master device. Devices that are unable to receive multicast transmissions from the first device may exchange timestamps with the first device via an access point.