Synchronization Reference Source Selection for Clock Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wireless communication systems face challenges in achieving precise clock synchronization due to varying link capacities and accuracy levels among synchronization reference sources, leading to compounded synchronization errors across communication hops.
Innovation Solution
A method for selecting a synchronization reference source based on clock accuracy indicators and link qualities, allowing wireless communication devices to synchronize their clocks with a higher accuracy by choosing the most reliable source for clock synchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wireless communication device uses multiple synchronization reference sources, then the coverage and availability of synchronization are improved, but the synchronization accuracy deteriorates due to varying link capacities and accuracy levels among sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by evaluating each synchronization reference source individually based on its specific link capacity and accuracy level. The device determines the accuracy level of each source and selects the most appropriate one for synchronization, rather than treating all sources uniformly. This resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to adapt to local conditions (individual source qualities) while maintaining high synchronization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of synchronization accuracy by dynamically selecting reference sources based on determined accuracy levels. The device monitors and compares accuracy levels of multiple sources and switches between them to maintain optimal synchronization. This parameter-based selection resolves the contradiction between having multiple sources for availability and maintaining accuracy by using accuracy level as the selection criterion.
2Measurement precision
If a wireless communication device selects a synchronization reference source with higher accuracy, then the clock synchronization accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the need to evaluate and compare multiple sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-determining the accuracy levels of synchronization reference sources before actual synchronization occurs. The device evaluates and ranks multiple sources based on their accuracy levels in advance, so when synchronization is needed, the selection process is simplified. This resolves the contradiction by performing the complex evaluation work beforehand, reducing real-time complexity while maintaining high accuracy selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simplified selection mechanism that doesn't require continuous complex monitoring of all sources. Once accuracy levels are determined, the device can use this information for a period without re-evaluating all sources, effectively using the accuracy level information as a temporary, disposable reference that reduces ongoing computational complexity while maintaining synchronization accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
Various aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to wireless communication. In some aspects, a wireless communication device may select a synchronization reference source, of a plurality of available synchronization reference sources, based at least in part on a clock accuracy indicator of the synchronization reference source; and communicate with the synchronization reference source to synchronize a first clock of the wireless communication device with a second clock of the synchronization reference source. Numerous other aspects are provided.