Master-Slave Multi-Device Synchronization via WebRTC P2P
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing large-scale display systems face synchronization issues due to clock deviations between multiple output devices, particularly when using ultra-high definition (UHD) content, and require a separate control terminal for synchronization, limiting system configuration and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A content output system and method utilizing peer-to-peer (P2P) communication based on a web browser, where devices can operate on different operating systems, with a master device generating synchronization information and signals to ensure synchronized output without a separate control terminal, and automatically resetting the master device if connections are lost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate control terminal is used to synchronize multiple output devices, then synchronization reliability is improved, but device complexity and system cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control terminal functionality into one of the output devices, designating it as the master device. This master device generates and distributes synchronization signals to slave devices through P2P communication, eliminating the need for a separate control terminal while maintaining synchronization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The master device performs dual functions: it acts as both an output device for displaying content and a control device for generating and managing synchronization signals. This multi-functionality reduces system complexity by consolidating roles that were previously separated.
2Reliability
If a separate control terminal is used for synchronization, then synchronization capability is improved, but ease of manufacture and system cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the control terminal functions with an existing output device, the system reduces the total number of components that need to be manufactured and configured. The master device already exists as an output device, so adding control functionality to it avoids the need to manufacture and integrate a separate control terminal.
3Stability of the object's composition
If all devices must run the same OS for control terminal compatibility, then system stability is improved, but adaptability worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standardized synchronization protocol as an intermediary layer between devices with different operating systems. This protocol, implemented through P2P communication, allows the master device to send synchronization signals to slave devices regardless of their underlying OS, enabling cross-platform compatibility while maintaining system stability.
4Device complexity
If clock signal correction is performed only upon reception of synchronization signal, then device complexity is reduced, but synchronization reliability worsens when continuous frame delay occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where slave devices continuously monitor their synchronization status with the master device. When frame delays or desynchronization is detected, the slave devices automatically adjust their clock signals and request re-synchronization, ensuring continuous synchronization reliability without requiring complex predictive correction mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A content output system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a web server for providing contents to be output to a web-connected terminal, and devices connected to the web server to output the contents, the devices respectively outputting a predetermined area of each content. The devices may be operated by a WebRTC. The devices may include a master device for generating and providing content synchronization information and a synchronization signal for specifying an output timing of the contents to be output, and at least one slave device for outputting the contents according to the content synchronization information and the synchronization signal provided from the master device. The master device and the slave device are set among the devices constituting the multi-vision so that the synchronization and synchronization between the multiple devices without a separate control terminal, thereby simplifying the system configuration and reducing the cost.