Wireless Audio Synchronization via Dynamic Latency Adjustment

The patent implements dynamic latency adjustment by continuously monitoring packet arrival timing and adapting the buffer depth accordingly. Instead of using a fixed buffer, the system varies the latency in real-time based on actual network conditions, allowing it to maintain stability when needed while minimizing delay when possible. This is achieved through a feedback mechanism that measures packet arrival variations and adjusts the playback timing to compensate.

The system changes the latency parameter dynamically based on measured packet arrival variations. By monitoring the actual timing of received packets and adjusting the buffer depth or playback schedule accordingly, the system adapts the latency parameter to match current network conditions, thereby maintaining synchronization without excessive fixed delay.

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the sink monitors packet arrival times and sends timing information back to the source. This feedback loop allows the source to adjust its transmission timing and rate to maintain clock synchronization, even when adapting to RF conditions. The system uses measured arrival variations to generate corrective timing adjustments that are communicated back to the source.

The system performs preliminary timing measurements and adjustments before playback to establish synchronized operation. By pre-calculating and applying timing corrections based on initial packet arrival measurements, the system prepares the clock synchronization in advance, allowing subsequent transmissions to maintain alignment despite variations in data rate or packet size.

The patent divides the networked audio system into hierarchical segments with a master sink and slave sinks. The master sink assumes responsibility for clock synchronization and timing control, while slave sinks follow the master's timing signals. This segmentation allows multiple sinks to operate in sync by delegating synchronization authority to a single master device, thereby maintaining reliability while supporting networked versatility.

The master sink acts as an intermediary between the audio source and the slave sinks. It receives timing information from the source, processes it, and distributes synchronized timing signals to all slave sinks. This intermediary role ensures that all devices in the networked system operate from a common timing reference, maintaining playback synchronization across multiple sinks.