Synchronization Circuit Using Timer Counter for Beacon Interval
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-cost and complex clock synchronization between base stations and terminals in beacon networks, especially when the beacon interval is long, due to the need for precise clock matching, which increases power consumption and synchronization shifts.
Innovation Solution
A synchronization establishment circuit with a register for storing the beacon cycle, a counter for counting a timer clock, and a comparator for generating internal signals, allowing synchronization without the need for a PLL circuit, using a simple and cost-effective structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a PLL circuit is used for clock synchronization, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential timing measurement function from the complex PLL circuit, using a simple counter to count clock cycles between beacons. This removes unnecessary circuit complexity while retaining the core synchronization capability through direct cycle counting and comparison.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex PLL circuits with inexpensive, simple counter circuits that can be easily implemented in basic microcontrollers. The simple counter structure uses minimal hardware resources and can be readily disposed of or replaced in cost-sensitive applications.
2Measurement precision
If clock precision is strictly matched, then synchronization precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the approach from matching clock precision parameters to measuring and comparing time interval parameters. By counting the number of clock cycles between beacon receptions and comparing this count to expected values, the system achieves synchronization without requiring strict clock precision matching, simplifying manufacturing.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the beacon interval is extended, then power consumption is reduced, but synchronization stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the actual beacon interval through counter operations, comparing it against expected values, and using this information to adjust timing. This feedback mechanism maintains synchronization stability even over extended beacon intervals by compensating for clock drift and timing variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary timing measurements by counting clock cycles during beacon reception and storing these values for comparison. This preliminary action establishes a reference framework that enables stable synchronization to be maintained over long intervals without requiring frequent beacon updates.
4Device complexity
If simple synchronization methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but synchronization precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment capabilities into the simple counter structure by allowing the counter to operate in different modes (counting mode, comparison mode, adjustment mode) and by enabling runtime modification of comparison values. This dynamic behavior enables precise synchronization to be achieved with simple hardware that can adapt its operation based on measured conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal is wirelessly connected to a base station. The terminal has a timer and a controller. The timer has a register for storing a beacon interval as a comparison value. The timer also includes a beacon counter for counting timer clocks. The timer also includes a comparator for generating an interrupt signal when an output value of the register and a count value of the counter match. The controller causes the counter to start counting when it receives a beacon for the first time. The controller causes the register to store the count value of the beacon counter when it receives a beacon next time. Since the beacon interval is measured using the timer clock in the terminal, instead of using the beacon interval information included in the beacon, it is unnecessary to strictly match the clock precision of the base station and the terminal, and therefore the cost of the system decreases.