Clock Delay Selection Circuit for Low-Power Device Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for synchronizing devices, such as in wireless media systems, face challenges due to clock drift caused by environmental factors, leading to out-of-sync playback and inefficiencies in power consumption from continuous monitoring and stabilization processes.
Innovation Solution
A circuit and method that modify clock signals by delaying and selecting appropriate delayed versions, using a delay unit, estimator, and multiplexer to synchronize devices without continuous power consumption, allowing for efficient synchronization with minimal processor intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If continuous monitoring of time difference between clocks is performed using software, then synchronization accuracy is maintained, but power consumption increases due to constant processor operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic synchronization by using a delay estimator that periodically determines delay amounts based on time differences between clocks, rather than continuous monitoring. The multiplexer periodically switches between different delay lines based on these estimated delays, allowing the processor to enter low-power states between synchronization events while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses hardware-based delay estimation and clock signal modification that operates autonomously without requiring continuous processor intervention. The delay unit and multiplexer form a self-contained synchronization mechanism that automatically adjusts clock signals based on time difference measurements, freeing the processor from continuous monitoring tasks.
2Reliability
If clock sources are updated continuously to correct clock drift, then synchronization is maintained, but additional stabilization time is required for each update
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple delay lines that are pre-configured with different delay amounts (e.g., 0ns, 2ns, 4ns, 6ns). When synchronization adjustment is needed, the multiplexer quickly switches to the appropriate pre-prepared delay line rather than continuously updating the clock source. This preliminary preparation of multiple delay options eliminates the need for time-consuming stabilization periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects from multiple discrete delay lines based on the current time difference between clocks. Rather than continuously adjusting a single clock source (which requires stabilization), the system dynamically switches between pre-configured delay paths, enabling rapid adaptation to clock drift without stabilization delays.
3Measurement precision
If multiple delay lines are provided with different delay amounts, then precise clock synchronization is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the delay function into multiple discrete delay lines, each providing a specific delay amount (e.g., 0ns, 2ns, 4ns, 6ns). This segmentation allows precise delay selection by simply switching between predefined options rather than implementing a complex continuous delay adjustment mechanism, thereby achieving precision without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiplexer serves multiple functions: it selects between different delay lines, implements the synchronization adjustment, and provides a clean output signal. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated circuits for each function, thereby achieving precise delay control while minimizing overall circuit complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit for modifying a clock signal, the circuit comprising: a delay unit configured to receive the clock signal and delay the clock signal so as to output a plurality of delayed versions of the clock signal, each delayed version being delayed by a different amount of delay to the other delayed versions; a delay estimator configured to determine an amount of delay for modifying the clock signal; and a multiplexer configured to: receive each of the delayed versions of the clock signal; select a delayed version of the clock signal in dependence on the determined amount of delay; and output the selected version of the clock signal.