MAC Layer Time Synchronization for Network Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for time synchronization in network terminals require a high-end system, increasing costs and network traffic due to the need for additional packet exchange, especially in low-price consumer electronics, and rely on a TCP/IP protocol stack and dedicated applications.
Innovation Solution
Implementing time synchronization in the media access control (MAC) layer, where the MAC layer provides synchronized time information directly to the application layer without packet exchange, using timestamp or piconet synchronization parameters from beacon frames, and optionally correcting for terminal characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If time synchronization is performed using dedicated applications or functional modules in the application layer, then accurate time synchronization between terminals is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time synchronization function from the application layer and relocates it to the MAC layer. The MAC layer independently manages time synchronization using beacon frames and timestamp fields, separating this function from higher-layer applications. This extraction eliminates the need for dedicated synchronization applications while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The MAC layer is designed to perform multiple functions including both medium access control and time synchronization. By making the MAC layer universal, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated synchronization modules, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining synchronization capabilities.
2Reliability
If dedicated synchronization applications are used, then time synchronization is achieved, but network traffic increases due to additional packet exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the time synchronization function with the existing beacon frame transmission mechanism. Instead of exchanging separate synchronization packets, the synchronization information is embedded within the regular beacon frames that are already transmitted for medium access control. This combining eliminates additional network traffic while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
3Reliability
If TCP/IP protocol stack and dedicated synchronization applications are required, then time synchronization is achieved, but product development cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The MAC layer is designed to autonomously perform time synchronization without requiring assistance from the application layer or external protocol stacks. The MAC layer independently acquires time information from beacon frames, manages synchronization, and provides timing services to applications. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex TCP/IP protocol stacks and dedicated synchronization applications, thereby reducing development cost and time.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for synchronizing applications of network terminals are provided. Time information, which is synchronized and managed with other terminals for controlling use of media in the network in a media access control (MAC) layer, is transmitted to an application layer so as to directly execute the application using a synchronization interface. Accordingly, it is possible to synchronize applications without exchanging packets for obtaining synchronization information of terminals using a TCP/IP protocol.