Time Sync Protocol for Power Distribution Mesh Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power distribution systems face challenges in achieving accurate time synchronization between communication nodes in mesh-based communications networks, which is crucial for efficient data communication and fault identification in power distribution systems.
Innovation Solution
A time synchronization protocol is implemented in a mesh-based communications network, where communication nodes can request and maintain time synchronization using a beacon-based communication protocol over multiple abstraction layers, specifically using the upper-level layers for time synchronization requests and responses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If time synchronization requests are communicated through lower-level layers for node identification, then node identification and time synchronization can be integrated, but time synchronization latency and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication protocol into distinct layers: lower-level layers handle node identification and network joining, while upper-level layers handle time synchronization. This separation allows each layer to optimize its function independently, preventing time synchronization requests from being processed through the slower node identification pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces uniquely-recognizable data frames as intermediary structures that carry time synchronization information through upper-level layers. These specialized data frames enable direct time synchronization communication without requiring lower-level layer processing, effectively acting as a mediator that bypasses the latency-inducing node identification pathway.
2Adaptability or versatility
If time synchronization is implemented through multiple abstraction layers, then comprehensive network coverage is achieved, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides time synchronization functionality into specific upper-level layers, separating it from lower-level network management functions. This segmentation allows the system to maintain multi-layer adaptability while reducing overhead by confining time synchronization processing to specific layers rather than propagating it through all abstraction levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by implementing time synchronization with specialized processing only where needed in the upper-level layers, rather than uniformly across all layers. This allows comprehensive network coverage through multi-layer support while minimizing overhead by concentrating time synchronization operations in specific layers with appropriate processing capabilities.
3Reliability
If random intervals are used for time synchronization requests after node joining, then collision avoidance is improved, but synchronization timing precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hybrid approach where time synchronization requests are sent at periodic intervals within predetermined ranges after initial node joining. This periodic action provides structured timing that maintains precision while allowing flexibility in the interval timing to avoid collisions, combining the benefits of both random and periodic approaches.
Data Source
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AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward apparatuses and methods for time synchronizing between communication nodes of a communications network. In specific embodiments, the apparatus includes nodes having respective clocks circuit and communication circuitry for communicating with other nodes in the network, and the nodes convey or operate on power-related data indicative of power consumption within a power distribution system by communicating the power-related data between communication nodes of the network or system. Each node can provide a time synchronization request to another of the nodes within an interval after being permitted to join into the communications network, and which then results in the node setting the clock circuit to a parameter conveyed from the second node via timing information provided in a uniquely-recognizable data frame as communicated via one of the upper-level layers. The node maintains on-going time synchronization by communicating additional time synchronization requests within predetermined time ranges.