Mesh Network Time Synchronization Using Self-Receive Phase Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing time synchronization and localization methods in networking and digital communication face challenges in achieving high precision synchronization without prior knowledge of signal propagation delay or physical distance between nodes, and require precise calibration of hardware, leading to inefficiencies and errors.
Innovation Solution
A method for characterizing time bias and propagation delay between nodes using self-receive signals, allowing for synchronization to within one nanosecond precision without prior information on signal propagation delay or physical distance, using standard electronic clocks and leveraging self-receive hardware to directly compare time-of-arrival signals, and adjusting synchronization slot duration based on environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing time synchronization methods are used without prior knowledge of signal propagation delay or physical distance, then synchronization can be performed, but precision is degraded and hardware calibration is required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-receive signals where each node transmits a signal and receives it back through the communication channel. By comparing the transmitted signal timing with the received signal timing, each node automatically characterizes its own propagation delay and time bias without requiring external calibration or prior knowledge of physical distance. This self-service approach eliminates complex hardware calibration requirements while achieving nanosecond-level synchronization precision.
2Measurement precision
If precise hardware calibration is performed, then time synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity and calibration time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary characterization of propagation delay and time bias using self-receive signals before actual synchronization operations. By pre-characterizing the communication channel properties through automatic signal transmission and reception, the system prepares all necessary synchronization parameters in advance without requiring time-consuming manual calibration procedures, enabling immediate high-precision synchronization.
3Adaptability or versatility
If synchronization slot duration is fixed, then system operation is simplified, but adaptability to environmental conditions is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts synchronization slot duration based on environmental conditions such as signal propagation characteristics and network traffic patterns. By making the synchronization slot duration adaptable rather than fixed, the system optimizes performance for varying environmental conditions while maintaining relatively simple adjustment mechanisms that modify only the time parameter without changing the fundamental synchronization protocol structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes: scheduling transmission of a first synchronization signal by a first node; and scheduling transmission of a second synchronization signal by a second node. The method also includes, after transmission of the first synchronization signal: receiving, from the first node, a first phase reference associated with the first synchronization signal; and receiving, from the second node, a first phase-of-arrival of the first synchronization signal at the second node. The method additionally includes, after transmission of the second synchronization signal: receiving, from the second node, a second phase reference associated with the second synchronization signal; and receiving, from the first node, a second phase-of-arrival of the second synchronization signal at the first node. The method further includes calculating a propagation delay between the first node and the second node based on the first phase reference, the second phase reference, the first phase-of-arrival, and the second phase-of-arrival.