Concentrator Reference Number Distribution for Sensor Timing Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional communication systems face complexity and inefficiency in controlling sensor data acquisition timing across multiple communication devices, particularly due to the need for managing absolute time and increased power consumption with GPS-based methods, and excessive control traffic with Network Time Protocol (NTP) distribution.
Innovation Solution
A communication system where a concentrator distributes a reference number for synchronizing sensor data acquisition timing among nodes, eliminating the need for each node to manage absolute time, using time division multiplexing and Time-Slotted Channel Hopping (TSCH) to control data acquisition based on a reference time slot number, slot frame number, or superframe number.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GPS is used for timing control, then acquisition timing can be synchronized, but power consumption increases and GPS may not be usable at all locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a concentrator as an intermediary device that generates and distributes reference time information to sensor nodes. Instead of each node independently using GPS, the concentrator acts as a central mediator that provides timing reference, reducing power consumption while maintaining synchronization reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The concentrator creates a copy of the reference time information from GPS (or other time sources) and distributes this copied timing reference to multiple nodes. This eliminates the need for each node to have its own GPS receiver, significantly reducing overall power consumption while maintaining timing accuracy.
2Reliability
If NTP is used for time distribution, then absolute time can be distributed, but control traffic increases and additional memory and control are required in each device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time distribution function from individual nodes and concentrates it in a single concentrator device. The concentrator handles all time reference generation and distribution, while nodes only need to receive and use the reference time information, significantly reducing control complexity and memory requirements at each node.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the time distribution function into a single concentrator device that serves multiple nodes. Instead of each node independently managing time synchronization, the concentrator combines this function centrally, reducing overall system complexity and control traffic while maintaining accurate time distribution.
3Reliability
If each node manages absolute time independently, then timing can be controlled, but device complexity and control overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The concentrator serves as an intermediary that provides reference time information to nodes, eliminating the need for each node to independently manage absolute time. Nodes simply use the reference time provided by the concentrator, significantly reducing configuration complexity while maintaining timing control reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device according to an embodiment includes one or more hardware processors. The one or more hardware processors: receives, from a server device performing communication by a communication method of synchronizing a number indicating a communication timing, a reference number indicating the number serving as a reference; and determines a processing timing of predetermined processing, based on the reference number.