Clock Synchronization in Wireless Sensor Network: From Traditional Estimation Theory to Distributed Signal Processing

Abstract

In this talk, we will review the advances of clock synchronization in wireless sensor network in the past few years. We will begin with the optimal clock synchronization algorithms in pairwise setting, in which maximum likelihood (ML) estimator from traditional estimation theory is the major tool. Then, we will discuss the more challenging networkwide synchronization, in which every node in the network needs to synchronize with each other. In this case, more powerful distributed signal processing techniques are required. In particular, we will illustrate how Belief Propagation (BP), distributed Kalman Filter (KF) and Alternating Direction Method of Multipliers (ADMM) method help in solving networkwide synchronization.