Sensor Data Transmission Using Dynamic Counter Thresholds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor data transmission systems require guard intervals to prevent overlapping of data packets, leading to reduced net throughput due to clock deviations between sensors, necessitating synchronization of local oscillators and resulting in increased costs and reduced data rates.
Innovation Solution
A method where sensors use a dynamic counter threshold based on previous data transmission readings to determine their time slots, eliminating the need for synchronization of local oscillators and reducing guard intervals, allowing for precise data transmission without overlapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If guard intervals are used between time slots to prevent overlapping of data packets, then data transmission reliability is improved, but net throughput is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of threshold values dynamically based on actual clock deviations measured during operation. By adjusting the threshold values according to real clock frequency differences, the system eliminates the need for fixed guard intervals while maintaining reliable data transmission and maximizing net throughput.
2Measurement precision
If local oscillators are synchronized to eliminate clock deviations, then data transmission accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where each sensor node autonomously measures its own clock deviation from the master clock and automatically adjusts its transmission threshold values accordingly. This eliminates the need for complex external synchronization systems while maintaining accurate data transmission timing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the measured counter values at the master device to dynamically adjust the threshold values at each sensor node. The master device receives data packets, determines the actual clock frequency deviation based on when packets arrive relative to expected time slots, and uses this feedback to optimize future transmission timing for each node.
3Reliability
If precise oscillators are used to minimize clock deviations, then data transmission reliability is improved, but cost is increased
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using expensive precise oscillators, the patent changes the operational parameters (threshold values) to compensate for the imprecision of cheap oscillators. By dynamically adjusting these parameters based on actual performance, the system achieves reliable data transmission using low-cost components.
Data Source
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AI summary
The sensor has a switch (20) activating a counter (21) depending on determined synchronous pulse. A comparator (26) compares a counter reading of the counter with a threshold value. The sensor determines a time slot depending on the comparison and transmits data to a control device in the time slot. A register (23) and a multiplier (24) determine the threshold value depending on a predetermined value, and determine another counter reading that is obtained during previous data transfer. An independent claim is also included for a method of data transfer from a sensor to a control device.