Clock Tracking System for Wireless Signal Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in achieving precise synchronization between master and slave devices due to unsynchronized clocks, which affects the coordination of real-time experiences in applications like home automation and virtual reality.
Innovation Solution
A method using a clock tracking system, such as a Kalman filter or digital phase-locked loop, to convert a future event target time from the master device's time base to the local unsynchronized time bases of slave devices, accounting for propagation times and using clock calibration messages to determine accurate timestamp conversions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wireless communication is used between master and slave devices, then device connectivity and flexibility are improved, but signal synchronization precision deteriorates due to unsynchronized clocks and propagation time variations
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary clock calibration by exchanging timing messages between master and slave devices to establish time base conversions before actual signal synchronization. This preliminary action compensates for clock drift and propagation time variations, enabling precise synchronization despite wireless connectivity challenges
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback through two-way ranging techniques where slave devices send timing messages back to the master device. The master device uses these feedback messages to measure propagation times and adjust synchronization accordingly, maintaining precision despite wireless environment variations
2Measurement precision
If clock calibration messages are exchanged frequently to improve synchronization accuracy, then signal coordination precision is improved, but communication overhead and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The clock calibration messages serve multiple functions simultaneously: they establish time base conversions, measure propagation times for synchronization compensation, and provide feedback for clock drift correction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate communication protocols and minimizes overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the frequency of clock calibration messages based on detected clock drift rates and synchronization requirements. When synchronization accuracy degrades below a threshold, calibration messages are sent more frequently; when accuracy is sufficient, frequency is reduced, optimizing the balance between precision and complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method of synchronizing signals is disclosed. The method comprises using a clock tracking system to convert a future event target time specified in a time base of a master device into the local unsynchronized time bases of one or more slave devices. Each of the slave devices then generates an event signal at the converted time, such that a coordinated delivery of synchronized signals is achieved.