Frame Counter Synchronization via Wake-Up Markers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for synchronizing frame counters in data transmission, such as time-synchronization and random numbers, are complex and inefficient, particularly in low-power wireless networks like LoRaWAN, and are susceptible to replay attacks.
Innovation Solution
A method where a second end-device sends a wake-up data frame with a marker to a first end-device, which responds with a data frame containing the synchronized frame counter and marker in the payload, allowing for secure synchronization without constant communication and reducing the need for precise time stamps or random number generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If time-synchronization with time stamps is used for frame counter synchronization, then synchronization can be achieved, but the complexity increases and performance cannot be guaranteed for rapid data transfer with short send and receive windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the synchronization marker from the time-stamp mechanism, using a simple numerical marker value instead of complex time-synchronization protocols. This reduces the synchronization process to exchanging and comparing simple numerical values rather than managing precise time-stamps and synchronization protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the synchronization parameter from time-based (time-stamps requiring precise timing) to counter-based (simple numerical marker values). This parameter change simplifies the synchronization process while maintaining reliability for frame counter synchronization.
2Reliability
If random numbers or nonces are used for authentication, then security can be improved, but the complexity increases due to entropy requirements and buffer memory for storing generated random numbers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, disposable marker values that do not require complex generation mechanisms like random number generators. These marker values are short-lived, used once for synchronization, and then discarded, eliminating the need for entropy management and buffer storage of random numbers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the authentication parameter from complex random numbers requiring entropy management to simple sequential or predetermined marker values. This simplifies the authentication process while maintaining security through the use of these markers in the synchronization protocol.
3Measurement precision
If precise time stamps are used for synchronization, then synchronization accuracy can be improved, but energy consumption increases and the system becomes unsuitable for low-power devices with imprecise timers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical time-keeping system (precise timers and clocks) with a logical marker-based synchronization system. Instead of relying on hardware timer precision, the system uses exchanged marker values to achieve synchronization, making it suitable for low-power devices with imprecise timers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the synchronization parameter from time-based (requiring precise timers) to counter-based (using simple marker values). This parameter change eliminates the dependency on precise hardware timers, reducing energy consumption while maintaining synchronization effectiveness.
4Reliability
If constant communication is maintained for frame counter synchronization, then synchronization accuracy can be improved, but energy consumption increases for battery-powered devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic synchronization action where marker values are exchanged only when needed (e.g., at the beginning of data transfer or after idle periods) rather than continuously. This periodic approach maintains synchronization reliability while significantly reducing energy consumption for battery-powered devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs frame counter synchronization in advance (preliminary action) before actual data transfer begins. The marker value is exchanged and synchronized at the start, allowing subsequent data transfers to proceed without continuous synchronization communication, thus reducing energy consumption.
Data Source
AI summary
A method synchronizes frame counters for protecting data transmissions between a first end-device and a second end-device. The data, in particular data frames, are transferred between the first end-device and the second end-device. The data frames are provided with frame counters to protect the data transfer between the first end-device and the second end-device. The second end-device sends a first data frame to the first end-device. The first data frame contains a marker in its payload data. The first end-device sends back a second data frame as an answer to the second end-device. The second data frame contains a frame counter in the header data, and the second data frame contains the frame counter and the marker in its payload data.