Network Clock Synchronization via Beacon Time Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clock recovery techniques in networks, such as those used in Digital Video Broadcasting, are not suitable for environments with multiple stations transmitting data, as they add significant signaling overhead and may not provide accurate clock synchronization without expensive, highly accurate clocks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for communicating between stations in a network that uses repeated beacon transmissions from a coordinator station to synchronize local clocks, adjusting signal generation and sampling based on time adjustment information, and updating frequency offsets to ensure accurate clock synchronization across stations, even in varying power line environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DVB clock recovery techniques with pilot carriers are used, then continuous stream synchronization is achieved, but the technique is not suitable for networks with multiple stations transmitting data simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous stream into discrete time slots assigned to different stations. Each station receives a time slot assignment in the beacon, allowing multiple stations to transmit sequentially without interference. This segmentation enables the system to handle multi-station environments while maintaining synchronization reliability through structured time division.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic time slot assignments where the coordinator station can adjust which stations transmit and when based on network conditions. The beacon transmission dynamically updates time slot information, allowing the system to adapt to changing multi-station requirements while maintaining accurate clock synchronization through coordinated time management.
2Measurement precision
If repeated beacon transmissions with time adjustment information are used, then accurate local clock synchronization is achieved without expensive clocks, but signaling overhead is introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon transmission serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides time adjustment information for clock synchronization, assigns time slots for data transmission, and enables channel adaptation. By combining these functions into a single beacon structure, the patent reduces overall signaling overhead while achieving accurate clock synchronization without requiring expensive hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms where stations receive time adjustment information in beacons and adjust their local clocks accordingly. The frequency offset values and time slot assignments provide feedback loops that continuously refine synchronization accuracy. This feedback approach enables precise clock synchronization through software-based adjustment rather than expensive hardware clocks.
3Measurement precision
If time adjustment information is adjusted frequently, then clock synchronization accuracy is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic beacon transmissions at regular intervals to provide time adjustment information. Rather than continuous adjustment, the system uses periodic beacons to update synchronization parameters. This periodic action reduces processing complexity by concentrating updates into discrete beacon reception cycles while maintaining adequate synchronization accuracy through consistent periodic timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The coordinator station performs preliminary calculations of time adjustments and frequency offsets before transmitting the beacon. By pre-computing these values based on predicted network conditions and clock drift characteristics, the patent reduces real-time processing complexity at receiving stations while maintaining high synchronization accuracy. The preliminary action shifts computational burden to the coordinator rather than individual stations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and corresponding system for communicating between stations in a network is presented. The method includes providing repeated beacon transmissions from a coordinator station for coordinating transmissions among the stations; transmitting a signal from a first station and receiving the signal at a second station; and performing one or both of: generating the signal based on a local clock at the first station and time adjustment information in a beacon transmission received by the first station, and sampling the signal at sample times based on a local clock at the second station and time adjustment information in a beacon transmission received by the second station.