Communication timing control method and apparatus, node, and communication system

摘要

Each node on a communication path receives state variable signals from other nodes indicating the internal operating states or internal timing of the other nodes, and transmits a state variable signal indicating its own internal operating state or timing. Transitions in the internal operating state or timing of a node take place at a basic transition rate but at times adjusted according to the state variable signals received from other nodes. The basic transition rate varies according to position on the communication path. The nodes can thereby establish transmitting time slots that follow each other in progression on the communication path, enabling data signals to be relayed from the starting node to the destination node with minimal delay at each intermediate node.