Considerations for Synchronization in Body Area Networks for Human Activity Monitoring

Abstract

In this paper, we highlight considerations for synchronization issues in body area networks. Requirements for the synchronization accuracy in body area networks depend on the application at hand. Synchronization may be needed for power management, sample ordering, calculation of stimulus responses and for sensor fusion. This paper provides a theoretical exercise to help understand the accuracy required for typical human motion sensing. It gives an overview of various synchronisation strategies used and implemented in prototype systems. Lessons learnt from practical implementations using Bluetooth, an IEEE 802.15.4 proprietary network and Nanonet are presented to illustrate the principles involved.The discussion provides some considerations and the requirements for typical WBAN applications.

Synchronization methods for Bluetooth based WBANs

“…for temperature monitoring also 1 sec error might be acceptable, while for ECG or inertial measurements, errors above 1 ms can not be tolerated [3]). Data synchronization might be also performed through wired sensors, but this is an uncomfortable solution.…”