Synchronization Platform for Moving Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication networks are inadequate for supporting communication environments involving moving networks, particularly in providing synchronization in complex arrays of both moving and static nodes, such as the Internet of moving things.
Innovation Solution
A communication network platform that is always-on, robust, scalable, and secure, capable of providing connectivity and Internet access to mobile and static things, with adaptive mechanisms for synchronization, including the use of GPS information and alternative synchronization sources like Internet connections and neighboring nodes, to maintain network stability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current communication networks are used to support moving networks, then basic connectivity is provided, but synchronization capability is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts synchronization sources based on node mobility status. Static nodes use GPS receivers for synchronization, while moving nodes switch to alternative sources including Internet time servers and neighboring nodes, allowing the network to maintain synchronization reliability despite changing mobility conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes synchronization parameters based on network conditions. When GPS is unavailable or nodes are moving, the system transitions from GPS-based synchronization to alternative methods including Internet time protocol (NTP) servers and distributed synchronization among neighboring nodes, adjusting synchronization frequency and source selection based on mobility detection
2Measurement precision
If GPS synchronization is used for all nodes, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different synchronization methods to different nodes based on their specific characteristics. GPS receivers are deployed only where needed (static or slow-moving nodes with clear sky view), while other nodes use simpler synchronization methods such as Internet time servers or neighboring node synchronization, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adequate precision
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a universal synchronization framework that supports multiple synchronization sources and methods. The platform can switch between GPS, Internet time servers, and neighboring node synchronization, allowing any node to function with any available synchronization method, reducing device complexity while maintaining synchronization capability
3Reliability
If frequent synchronization updates are performed, then synchronization accuracy is maintained, but network traffic and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs synchronization updates periodically rather than continuously. Synchronization messages are exchanged at scheduled intervals, and the frequency of updates is adjusted based on node mobility detection and network conditions, maintaining synchronization accuracy while reducing unnecessary energy consumption from constant updates
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from mobility detection and synchronization quality measurements to adjust update frequency. When nodes are stable and synchronization is accurate, update frequency is reduced to conserve energy. When mobility is detected or synchronization quality degrades, update frequency increases to maintain accuracy, creating an energy-efficient adaptive synchronization system
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for synchronizing a network of moving things. As non-limiting examples, various aspects of this disclosure provide systems and methods for providing synchronization for nodes (e.g., Mobile APs, etc.) in a moving network, for example in which sources of synchronization information may dynamically change.