Wireless Synchronization via Central Offset Timer
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Solution Overview
Problem
In IoT communication networks, maintaining synchronization between low-cost communication nodes is challenging due to the absence of high-performance devices, which is crucial for time-synchronized operations in applications like construction and industrial sites.
Innovation Solution
A synchronization method where a central node transmits synchronization information signals including a target synchronization time and offset to terminals, allowing them to set and update timers for achieving time synchronization without requiring internal synchronization clocks or separate devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-performance synchronization devices are deployed in each communication node, then synchronization precision is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a central synchronization server as an intermediary that集中 manages synchronization for all terminals. The server generates synchronization signals containing timing information and distributes them to terminals, which then adjust their local clocks accordingly. This mediator approach allows high-precision synchronization without requiring complex synchronization devices in each terminal.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses software-based synchronization protocols that copy timing information from the central server to terminals through message passing. Instead of requiring dedicated hardware synchronization devices, the system replicates timing data through software implementations, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining synchronization precision.
2Ease of manufacture
If synchronization protocols are simplified for low-cost devices, then device cost is reduced, but synchronization reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where terminals report their synchronization status and timing deviations back to the central server. The server then adjusts subsequent synchronization signals based on this feedback, compensating for drift and errors. This feedback loop maintains synchronization reliability even with simplified terminal hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary calibration and configuration phases where the central server pre-configures synchronization parameters and compensates for known errors before actual synchronization operations begin. This preliminary action ensures reliable synchronization performance without requiring complex real-time processing in low-cost terminals.
Data Source
AI summary
A synchronization method performed by a first communication node may include: receiving, from a second communication node of the communication system, a first synchronization information signal including information on a first synchronization reference time and information on a first offset; identifying information on a first time at which the first synchronization information signal is transmitted and information on a target synchronization time configured by the second communication node, based on the information included in the first synchronization information signal; setting a synchronization timer based on the information on the first offset; and when the synchronization timer expires, determining that time synchronization with the second communication node is acquired.