Synchronizing devices on wireless networks
The UOC's Wireless Networks (WINE) research group has invented SmartClocks, a novel, low-cost and energy efficient mechanism to synchronize clocks. The inventors of this technology are Xavier Vilajosana (group leader), Borja Martinez, Ferran Adelantado and Pere Tuset, all of whom are members of the IN3's WINE research group.
Synchronizing wireless devices
SmartClocks makes it easier to synchronize devices on a wireless network, resulting in power and cost savings. The mechanism is applicable to all wireless networks, but makes more sense in those networks that have energy restrictions such as the emergent low-power wide area networks (LPWAN).
UOC researcher Vilajosana said that SmartClocks would help companies with hardware and software solutions that required low levels of power consumption, but precise synchronization. SmartClocks improves industrial communications, synchronizing wireless sensors' clocks in production processes. It improves 5G communications and Smart City applications; for example, it can synchronize clocks for traffic control or water and electricity supplies. For a more detailed explanation of SmartClocks, take a look at the video below.
Making the invention available
The WINE research group has applied for an international patent at the European Patent Office (EPO) with the help of the UOC Knowledge Transfer and Research Support Office (OSRT). In the coming 30 months the group will decide on the regions for patent protection.
With support from the OSRT, the research group has also started to present SmartClocks to companies interested in marketing the patented invention.