Synchronization Data Records for Multi-Transceiver Communication Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication devices with multiple transceiver units face challenges in maintaining synchronization, particularly due to time zone deviations between the device unit and transceiver units, which can lead to inefficiencies in energy consumption and data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced to synchronize transceiver units in a communication device by generating and transmitting synchronization data records that describe the time relationship between the device clock readings of the device unit and the transceiver units, allowing for independent synchronization sessions that do not interfere with distance measurement sessions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If transceiver units continuously receive synchronization signals to maintain precise time synchronization, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic synchronization by defining distance measurement time grids with specific time windows where transceiver units alternately activate to send or receive signals. Instead of continuous operation, each transceiver unit follows a periodic schedule based on its assigned time slot, maintaining synchronization while consuming energy only during active periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes synchronization relationships in advance by pre-defining time grids, time windows, and time slots for each transceiver unit before distance measurement sessions begin. This preliminary configuration allows units to know exactly when to activate and communicate, eliminating the need for continuous monitoring and reducing energy consumption while maintaining precise synchronization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple transceiver units operate simultaneously without coordinated time slots, then communication flexibility is improved, but data collisions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication time into distinct time slots within each distance measurement time grid, assigning specific time windows to individual transceiver units. This temporal segmentation allows multiple units to operate simultaneously without collision, as each unit has a designated communication window while others remain inactive or listen-only.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a master transceiver unit that acts as an intermediary to coordinate synchronization. The master unit sends synchronization signals to slave units and manages the time grid configuration, ensuring that all units operate in a coordinated manner that prevents data collisions while maintaining communication flexibility.
3Reliability
If synchronization information is transmitted frequently to maintain time zone alignment, then synchronization reliability is improved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transmits synchronization information periodically at predetermined intervals defined by the distance measurement time grids, rather than continuously or on-demand. Each transceiver unit receives synchronization signals at its assigned time slots, maintaining time zone alignment with minimal communication overhead by updating only when necessary according to the periodic schedule.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables precise synchronization of transceiver units, reduces energy consumption by optimizing synchronization sessions, and prevents data collisions between synchronization and distance measurement time windows.
Implementation Method 1
The location of the device unit is usually achieved by determining the time of flight of the UWB signals exchanged between the communication device and the device unit.
Implementation Method 2
The clocks usually comprise a respective oscillating quartz crystal. Deviations between the time zones can occur due to runtime differences between the device clocks, which are attributable to the different quartz crystals.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for forwarding synchronization information in a communication device. The communication device has at least two transceiver units. One of the transceiver units receives a time signal from an external equipment unit in a predetermined distance measurement session, said time signal comprising an equipment clock state of the equipment unit at a reference time in an equipment time zone. The invention provides for the receiving transceiver unit to generate a synchronization dataset that describes a time relationship between a device clock state at the reference time in the device time zone and the equipment clock state at the reference time in the equipment time zone. The receiving transceiver unit initiates a synchronization session, the receiving transceiver unit defining a synchronization time frame that has a periodically repeating synchronization block that provides for a session round. The receiving transceiver unit transmits the synchronization dataset to the other transceiver units in a predetermined session slot of the session round of the periodically repeating synchronization block.