Clock Synchronisation in Wireless Mesh Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock synchronization techniques in wireless mesh networks are not ideally suited for maintaining accurate and synchronized clock signals due to the nature of multi-hop wireless connections, which can lead to asynchronous signals.
Innovation Solution
A method and network node design that utilize a beamforming steerable antenna to receive and select clock synchronizing signals, produce a reference comparison value, and adjust the local clock signal accordingly, ensuring synchronization across the network through a software-defined network controller.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multi-hop wireless connections are used to extend network coverage, then network area and connectivity are improved, but clock signal synchronization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A dedicated clock synchronization signal is introduced as an intermediary carrier to transport reference clock information through the wireless mesh network. This separate synchronization channel mediates between the master clock source and remote network nodes, enabling accurate time distribution across extended wireless coverage areas without being degraded by multi-hop transmission effects
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary clock synchronization by establishing a reference clock signal at the master network node before distribution to remote nodes. The master node pre-processes and conditions the clock signal, then transmits it through the wireless mesh network, ensuring that synchronization is proactively maintained across all nodes before timing drift can occur
2Measurement precision
If beamforming steerable antennas are used to receive clock synchronizing signals, then signal selection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system employs dynamic beamforming capabilities that can electronically steer and adjust reception beams in real-time. This dynamic control allows the system to adaptively select optimal clock synchronization signals from multiple directions, achieving high signal selection accuracy through software-controlled beam patterns rather than fixed physical antenna structures
Solution Approach 2:
The beamforming steerable antenna system serves multiple functions: it receives data communications, receives clock synchronization signals, and can dynamically switch between different signal sources. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate antenna systems into a single versatile platform, managing complexity through functional integration
3Adaptability or versatility
If clock signals are distributed through wireless mesh network, then network flexibility is improved, but signal stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous clock signal distribution throughout the wireless mesh network, with the master network node continuously transmitting reference clock signals to remote nodes. This continuous action ensures that synchronization is constantly maintained despite network topology changes or node additions, preserving signal stability while allowing network flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where remote network nodes monitor received clock signals and report synchronization status back to the master node. This feedback loop enables the master node to adjust transmission parameters and maintain optimal signal stability even as the wireless mesh network dynamically reconfigures
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively maintains synchronized clock signals across wireless mesh networks, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of cellular communications by dynamically adjusting and routing clock signals using beamforming steerable antennas and a software-defined network controller.
Implementation Method 1
receiving a plurality of clock synchronising signals over respective wireless radio frequency signals at a beamforming steerable antenna of a transceiver having a beamforming steerable antenna for which reception parameters define a reception direction for the antenna
Data Source
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AI summary
A technique for providing a synchronised clock signal across a wireless mesh network is described. The technique includes choosing one of a plurality received radio frequency signals to provide a synchronisation signal to which a local clock signal can be synchronised.