Wireless Device Synchronization via Temporal Orthogonality

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing synchronization methods for wireless communication between electronic devices rely on absolute synchronization systems like synchronous base stations or GPS, which can fail in areas without network support or GPS shadow areas, leading to communication failures.

Innovation Solution

A method and apparatus for achieving synchronization between electronic devices independently of absolute synchronization systems, using a centralized or distributed approach where devices check for synchronized reference signals, determine their role based on signal classes, and send synchronization signals at specific times to maintain temporal orthogonality and resolve mismatches.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If devices use absolute synchronization systems (synchronous base station or GPS) for synchronization, then synchronization accuracy is improved, but device operation becomes restricted to areas with network coverage or GPS signal availability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynchronization accuracyVSAvoidoperational flexibility in different environments
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service synchronization where devices autonomously establish synchronization relationships with each other without relying on external absolute synchronization systems. Each device monitors synchronization status and automatically adjusts its behavior, enabling independent operation in areas without base station or GPS coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a relative synchronization mechanism that acts as an intermediary between devices. Instead of directly relying on absolute time sources, devices use relative timing information exchanged between peers to achieve synchronization, which works in environments where absolute synchronization is unavailable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If devices establish synchronization independently without centralized coordination, then adaptability to various environments is improved, but synchronization reliability deteriorates due to potential mismatches and conflicts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveindependence from absolute synchronization systemsVSAvoidsynchronization stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where devices continuously monitor synchronization status and exchange synchronization information. When synchronization mismatches are detected, devices receive feedback and automatically adjust their synchronization parameters, ensuring reliable synchronization even in distributed environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes the synchronization system dynamic by allowing devices to change their synchronization states and relationships in real-time based on environmental conditions. Devices can dynamically establish, modify, or terminate synchronization connections to maintain reliability while adapting to changing network conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10299231B2Synchronization method and apparatus for wireless communication between electronic devices
Publication Date: 2019.05.21 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US10299231B2 patent drawing
  • US10299231B2 patent drawing
  • US10299231B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for synchronization between electronic devices and, more particularly, to a synchronization method and apparatus for wireless communication between electronic devices. As a synchronization method for an electronic device performing wireless communication with other electronic devices, the method may include: checking, when two or more reference synchronization signals are received within a preset period, whether the received reference synchronization signals are synchronized; determining, when the received reference synchronization signals are not synchronized, to operate as a device sending a reference synchronization signal of a class lower than or equal to that of the lowest class reference synchronization signal among the received reference synchronization signals; sending a reference synchronization signal at a preset time in a synchronization frame designed to preserve temporal orthogonality between classes; and performing synchronization between reference synchronization signals in cooperation with different devices having sent reference synchronization signals.