Synchronized Content Rendering in Powerline Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing content distribution systems struggle to maintain synchronization across multiple nodes in asynchronous networks, particularly in powerline communications environments, where traditional master network clocks and timestamps are insufficient to accommodate timing variations, especially when audio and video content are distributed to different destinations or sources.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilizes PHY timing flags derived from Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) synchronization signals to provide precise time synchronization among network nodes, allowing for the adjustment of buffer parameters and interpolation of missing data to ensure synchronized playback across multiple devices in a powerline communications network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If master network clocks and timestamps are used for synchronization, then basic timing coordination is achieved, but precise synchronization across multiple nodes in asynchronous networks cannot be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the synchronization function into multiple components: PHY timing flags for basic timing, macro synchronization signals for coordinate timing across nodes, and buffer parameter adjustments for local adaptation. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific aspects of synchronization, achieving precision without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-adjusting buffer parameters at each node based on expected timing variations, and by using PHY timing flags to establish baseline timing before content distribution. This preliminary configuration enables nodes to handle asynchronous arrivals without real-time complex coordination.
2Adaptability or versatility
If content is distributed to multiple destinations or from multiple sources, then content distribution flexibility is improved, but maintaining synchronization becomes insufficient with traditional methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where each node monitors its local timing status and adjusts buffer parameters accordingly. The macro synchronization signal provides continuous feedback about coordinate timing, allowing nodes to adapt to distribution variations while maintaining synchronization reliability through local corrections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes parameters dynamically by adjusting buffer sizes, fill thresholds, and empty thresholds at each node based on timing conditions. This parameter adaptation allows the system to handle flexible content distribution paths while maintaining synchronization through local parameter optimization rather than rigid centralized control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If asynchronous networks are used for content distribution, then network flexibility and medium options are improved, but timing variations make synchronization difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces macro synchronization signals as intermediaries that carry coordinate timing information across the asynchronous network. These signals act as mediators between different asynchronous nodes, allowing timing coordination without requiring the underlying network to be synchronous, thus preserving network flexibility while achieving timing accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation by allowing each node to adjust its buffer parameters in real-time based on observed timing variations. This dynamic behavior enables the system to accommodate asynchronous network characteristics while maintaining synchronization through continuous local optimization rather than static configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
The trend toward moving to digital content is progressing and expanding every day. With that trend comes the availability of a multitude of content from many content sources. There is a need for this content to be distributed to multiple destinations, and there is a further need to have the content synchronized among those multiple destinations. Embodiments described herein detail a method of synchronizing this content in an asynchronous environment, such as a powerline network, including using a PHY timing flag that is used to compensate for PHY-to-channel-to-PHY delays.