Wireless Clock Synchronization State Notification via Frame Embedding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for synchronizing system and device clocks in wireless apparatuses via wireless LAN are inefficient, as they require wireless transmission of higher-layer messages to confirm synchronization status, which wastes wireless medium and processor resources.
Innovation Solution
A wireless apparatus with a main control section, wireless control section, and clock synchronization management section that notifies other connected apparatuses of clock synchronization state through frame transmission, including status information such as synchronous, asynchronous, or unsynchronizable, allowing efficient confirmation of synchronization without prolonged message transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If higher-layer messages are transmitted wirelessly to confirm synchronization status, then synchronization confirmation is achieved, but wireless medium and processor resources are wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the clock synchronization state notification with existing wireless communication frames. The clock synchronization management section embeds synchronization status information (synchronized/unsynchronized state) into regular data frames that are already being transmitted between apparatuses, eliminating the need for separate confirmation messages and reducing wireless medium usage and processor overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing communication frames multi-functional by adding clock synchronization state information to them. These frames simultaneously serve their original communication purpose and the additional function of notifying synchronization status, reducing the total number of messages required and improving resource efficiency.
2Reliability
If dedicated synchronization confirmation messages are transmitted, then synchronization status is confirmed, but communication efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single frame transmission. The embedded clock synchronization state information is included in regular data frames, allowing simultaneous transmission of data and synchronization status without requiring additional communication time or bandwidth.
Solution Approach 2:
The clock synchronization management section continuously monitors and maintains synchronization state information ready for notification. When frames are transmitted, the synchronization status is already prepared and embedded, eliminating the need for separate confirmation exchanges and improving overall communication efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
An object of this technology is for one apparatus to effectively notify the other apparatus whether or not synchronization target clocks are correctly synchronized therebetween. A wireless apparatus includes a main control section, a wireless control section, and a clock synchronization management section. The main control section manages time using a first clock (synchronization target clock). The wireless control section manages time using a second clock (reference clock). The synchronization management section manages a clock synchronization state. The wireless control section notifies another wirelessly connected wireless apparatus of information regarding the clock synchronization state through transmission of a frame.