Method and apparatus for processing data associated with time information

Abstract

Method, e.g. computer-implemented, for processing data associated with time information, e.g. data of a control device and / or of a product connectable with the control device, e.g. of a sensor arrangement connectable with the control device, wherein the method comprises: coordinating messages of a protocol for time synchronization, e.g. for synchronizing the control device with the sensor arrangement and / or with at least one further unit, with a configuration for a power saving state of at least one component, e.g. of the control device and / or of the sensor arrangement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for processing data associated with time information.

[0002] The present invention also relates to an apparatus for processing data associated with time information. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Exemplary implementations relate to a method, such as a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with time information, such as data from a control device and / or a product connectable to the control device, such as data from a sensor device connectable to the control device. The method includes coordinating messages for time synchronization, such as for synchronizing the control device with the sensor device and / or with at least one other unit, with a configuration for an energy-saving state of at least one component, such as the control device and / or the sensor device. In another exemplary embodiment, this can, for example, coordinate, e.g., synchronize, the activation or deactivation of the energy-saving state of the at least one component with the messages for time synchronization, thereby reducing, e.g., avoiding, the impact of the energy-saving state on the messages for time synchronization.

[0004] In another exemplary embodiment, the product that can be connected to the control device is, for example, at least one of the following elements: a) sensor device, b) actuator, c) data receiver, d) display, e) projector, f) network node, such as network terminal node, g) network participant.

[0005] In another exemplary embodiment, the method includes, for example, exchanging, sending, and / or receiving messages for a time synchronization protocol based on a configuration for a power-saving state. Thus, in another exemplary embodiment, for example, sending messages for the time synchronization protocol during power-saving state activation can be prevented, which could, for example, interfere with or prevent the transmission of messages for the time synchronization protocol.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, the protocol for time synchronization is specified to be constructed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: a) Precision Time Protocol (PTP), IEEE 1588, b) General Precision Time Protocol (gPTP), IEEE 802.1AS.

[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to include: exchanging information, such as data, for example in the form of a message, through at least one data connection, wherein the at least one data connection is configured as an Ethernet data connection, such as an automotive Ethernet data connection, for example according to or based on at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.3bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3cz, g) IEEE 802.3dh.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, the energy-saving state is specified according to and / or based on at least the following standards: Energy-efficient Ethernet, IEEE 802.3az.

[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to include at least one of the following elements: a) providing, for example, creating a configuration for a power-saving state, and / or b) determining a configuration for a power-saving state, wherein, for example, the determination includes b1) observing data traffic associated with a protocol for time synchronization, b2) predicting future data traffic associated with a protocol for time synchronization, for example, predicting future messages of a protocol for time synchronization, and / or c) receiving a configuration for a power-saving state, for example, from the at least one additional unit.

[0010] Another exemplary embodiment relates to an apparatus for performing methods according to these embodiments.

[0011] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a control device having the device according to these embodiments.

[0012] Other exemplary embodiments relate to a product, such as a sensor device or PHY interface assembly, having devices according to these embodiments.

[0013] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a system having at least one device according to these embodiments and / or at least one control device according to these embodiments and / or at least one product according to these embodiments, such as a sensor device.

[0014] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle, having at least one device according to these embodiments and / or at least one control device according to these embodiments and / or at least one sensor device according to these embodiments and / or at least one system according to these embodiments.

[0015] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method according to these embodiments.

[0016] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer program that includes instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform a method according to these embodiments.

[0017] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a data carrier signal that transmits and / or characterizes a computer program according to these embodiments.

[0018] Further exemplary embodiments relate to the use of methods and / or devices and / or control devices and / or sensor devices and / or systems and / or vehicles and / or computer-readable storage media and / or computer programs and / or data carrier signals according to these embodiments for at least one of the following: a) coordinating the exchange of at least one message of a time synchronization protocol with the configuration of an energy-saving state of the at least one component, such as the control device and / or sensor device; b) synchronizing the time setting device of the at least one sensor device with the time setting device of the control device; c) synchronizing the time setting device of the at least one sensor device with the time setting device of, for example, a central control device; d) distributing time information in or within the system, for example, between more than two components; e) keeping the system or two or more components of the system synchronized, for example, in the case of at least temporary use of an energy-saving state; f) orchestrating messages of a time synchronization protocol with a configuration for an energy-saving state; and g) determining a configuration for an energy-saving state. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Other features, applications, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings. All described or illustrated features, either alone or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their combination in the claims or their reference thereto, or their representation or illustration in the specification or drawings.

[0020] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is illustrated schematically. Figure 2 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 3A simplified timing diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 4 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 5 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 6 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 7 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 8 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 9 A simplified block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown. Figure 10 A simplified sequence diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 11 The illustrations illustrate aspects of use according to exemplary embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Exemplary implementation, Figure 1 , Figure 2 This involves a method, such as a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with time information, for example for controlling device 10 ( Figure 2 ) and / or for products that can be connected to control device 10, such as sensor device 20 that can be connected to control device 10 via, for example, a first data connection DV-1, wherein the method includes: sending a message MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization—for example for synchronizing control device 10 with sensor device 20 and / or with at least one additional unit 30. Figure 2 ) and the configuration CFG-ESZ for energy-saving states 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ for at least one component (e.g., control device 10 and / or sensor device 20) are coordinated 100 ( Figure 1 In another exemplary embodiment, this can, for example, enable the activation or deactivation of the power-saving states 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ of the at least one component to be coordinated with, for example, synchronized with, the message MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, thereby reducing, for example, the impact of the power-saving state on the messages of the protocol for time synchronization.

[0022] In another exemplary embodiment, Figure 1The method specifies that it includes, for example, exchanging 102, sending 102a and / or receiving 102b a message MSG-PROT-ZS for the time synchronization protocol PROT-ZS, based on a configuration CFG-ESZ for a power-saving state. Thus, in another exemplary embodiment, for example, it is possible to prevent the transmission of the time synchronization protocol message when the power-saving state is activated, which could, for example, interfere with or prevent the transmission of the time synchronization protocol message.

[0023] In another exemplary implementation (not shown), the method includes, for example, adapting a configuration CFG-ESZ for power-saving states based on information from the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization.

[0024] In another exemplary embodiment, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization is specified to be constructed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: a) Precision Time Protocol (PTP), IEEE 1588, b) General Precision Time Protocol (gPTP), IEEE 802.1AS.

[0025] In another exemplary embodiment, Figure 1 The method is specified to include: using at least one data connection DV-1, DV-2 ( Figure 2 The two systems exchange 102c information, such as data, for example in the form of the message MSG-PROT-ZS, wherein the at least one data connection is constructed as an Ethernet data connection, for example as an automotive Ethernet data connection, for example according to or based on at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.3bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3cz, g) IEEE 802.3dh.

[0026] In another exemplary embodiment, the energy-saving states 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ are specified to be constructed according to and / or based on at least the following standard: Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) according to IEEE 802.3az. For example, energy-saving states 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ are, for example, a low-power idle (LPI) state of at least one PHY component (an interface component of the ISO / OSI standard model Layer 1) of the control device 10 and / or sensor device 20.

[0027] Figure 3A simplified timing diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is schematically shown. In the first time domain ZB-1, for example, no power-saving states 10-ESZ or 20-ESZ are activated, and the message MSG-PROT-ZS of the protocol PROT-ZS for time synchronization can be transmitted unimpeded, for example, between at least one of the following components: a) control device 10 ( Figure 2 (a) sensor device 20, (b) other units, such as a central controller, such as a vehicle computer, 30.

[0028] ZB-2 in the second time domain ( Figure 3 In the first data connection DV-1 to sensor device 20 downlink, for example, power-saving state 10-ESZ is activated, and therefore the PROT-ZS protocol message MSG-PROT-ZS for time synchronization cannot be transmitted from control device 10 to sensor device 20 unimpeded (e.g., without delay, e.g., with a non-zero delay variance), for example, in the second time domain ZB-2. In the subsequent time domain ZB-3, power-saving state 10-ESZ in the first data connection DV-1 to sensor device 20 downlink is not (e.g., no longer) activated, and therefore the PROT-ZS protocol message MSG-PROT-ZS for time synchronization can be transmitted from control device 10 to sensor device 20 unimpeded (e.g., without delay), for example, in the third time domain ZB-3.

[0029] In another exemplary embodiment, for example, control device 10 or device 200 for controlling device 10 sends a message MSG-PROT-ZS for time synchronization protocol PROT-ZS to sensor device 20 via a first data connection DV-1. Figure 3 The time schedule for the energy-saving status shown is coordinated.

[0030] In another exemplary embodiment, it may be envisioned, for example, that the control device 10 or the device 200 for controlling the control device 10 coordinates the time schedule for the energy-saving state with the message MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization (e.g., sent to the sensor device 20 via the first data connection DV-1).

[0031] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of these embodiments can be applied to the uplink and / or downlink of the corresponding data connection.

[0032] In another exemplary embodiment, the configuration for energy-saving states 10-ESZ and 20-ESZ can, for example, be based on... Figure 3 It is represented by a time plan.

[0033] In another exemplary embodiment, Figure 4The method is specified to include at least one of the following elements: a) providing 110, for example, creating a configuration CFG-ESZ for a power-saving state, and / or b) determining 112 a configuration CFG-ESZ for a power-saving state, wherein the determination includes, for example, b1) observing 112a data traffic associated with the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, b2) predicting 112b future data traffic associated with the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, for example, predicting future messages of the protocol for time synchronization, and / or c) receiving 114 a configuration CFG-ESZ for a power-saving state, for example, from at least one additional unit 30.

[0034] For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the device 200 (see below) performs the method. Figure 5 For example, it can be integrated into the PHY interface component. In another exemplary embodiment, therefore, the provision 110, for example, creating the configuration CFG-ESZ for the power-saving state, can be done directly in the PHY interface component.

[0035] For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the configuration CFG-ESZ for power-saving states may, for instance, indicate when at least one component 10, 20, 30, or a portion thereof (e.g., a PHY component for the downlink) enters a power-saving state, such as an EEE LPI type power-saving state. Therefore, the configuration CFG-ESZ for power-saving states characterizes information such as indicating when, for example, which data connections DV-1, DV-2 can be used for the purpose of exchanging messages (e.g., messages for the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization).

[0036] In another exemplary embodiment, see also Figure 4 Element 112 can perform learning, for example, gPTP time planning, such as self-learning. For instance, it can learn or predict when future gPTP messages will occur based on observed gPTP data traffic (e.g., message traffic), and in another exemplary implementation, it can adapt the configuration CFG-ESZ for power-saving states (e.g., EEE LPI configuration for at least one LPI client) based on this learning or prediction, for example, causing the power-saving state to exit before the next gPTP message occurs. Afterwards, the power-saving state can be re-entered, for example.

[0037] Other exemplary implementations, Figure 5 This relates to an apparatus 200 for performing methods according to these embodiments.

[0038] In another exemplary embodiment, device 200 is, for example, assigned to control device 10 ( Figure 2 For example, it can be integrated into control device 10.

[0039] In another exemplary embodiment, device 200 is, for example, assigned to the at least one sensor device 20 ( Figure 2 For example, it can be integrated into the at least one sensor device 20.

[0040] In another exemplary embodiment, device 200 is, for example, assigned to vehicle computer 30 ( Figure 2 (not shown), for example, integrated into the vehicle computer 30.

[0041] In another exemplary embodiment, Figure 5 The device 200 is defined as follows: a computing device (“computer”) 202 including at least one computing core 202a, and a storage device 204 allocated to the computing device 202 for at least temporarily storing at least one of the following elements: a) data DAT (e.g., data associated with configuration CFG-ESZ), b) computer program PRG, for example for performing methods according to these embodiments.

[0042] In another exemplary embodiment, storage device 204 includes volatile memory (e.g., working memory (RAM)) 204a and / or non-volatile (NVM) memory (e.g., flash EEPROM) 204b, or a combination thereof, or a combination with other memory types not explicitly mentioned.

[0043] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer-readable storage medium SM that includes instructions PRG, which, when executed by a computer 202, cause the computer to perform a method according to these embodiments.

[0044] Another exemplary implementation relates to a computer program PRG that includes instructions that, when executed by computer 202, cause the computer to perform methods according to these implementations.

[0045] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a data carrier signal DCS that characterizes and / or transmits a computer program PRG according to these embodiments. The data carrier signal DCS can be exchanged (received and / or transmitted) via, for example, an optional data interface 206 of device 200, wherein the optional data interface 206 can be configured, for example, for use via at least one data connection DV-1, DV-2 ( Figure 2 Information exchange, such as data exchange (e.g., data associated with the PROT-ZS protocol and / or sensor data and / or control data) (sending and / or receiving).

[0046] In another exemplary embodiment, the device 200 may also be constructed as, for example, a purely hardware circuit.

[0047] In another exemplary embodiment, device 200 may be disposed, for example, in a PHY interface component.

[0048] Other exemplary implementations, Figure 2 The invention relates to a control device 10, which, for example, can be connected and / or is connected to at least one sensor device 20 via a first data connection DV-1, including device 200 according to these embodiments.

[0049] Other exemplary implementations, Figure 2 This relates to a product, such as sensor device 20, which can be connected, for example, to a control device (e.g., control device 10 according to these embodiments) via a first data connection DV-1 or the first data connection DV-1, including device 200 according to these embodiments.

[0050] Alternatively, in another exemplary embodiment, the additional unit 30 may also include the device 200 (not shown) according to the exemplary embodiment.

[0051] Other exemplary implementations, Figure 2 The invention relates to a system 1000, which includes at least one device 200 according to these embodiments and / or at least one control device 10 according to these embodiments and / or at least one sensor device 20 according to these embodiments.

[0052] Other exemplary implementations, Figure 6 The invention relates to a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle 1, which includes at least one device 200 according to these embodiments and / or at least one control device 10 according to these embodiments and / or at least one sensor device 20 according to these embodiments and / or at least one system 1000 according to these embodiments.

[0053] Figure 7 A simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000a according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Element E10 exemplarily represents a gateway, for example, for connecting at least some components of the communication system 1000a to at least one other communication system or network (not shown).

[0054] Elements E11a, E11b, and E11c exemplarily represent central control devices (e.g., "one or more central ECUs"). Elements E12a, E12b, E12c, and E12d exemplarily represent sensor devices (e.g., those used in conjunction with...). Figure 2The sensor device 20 is similar to or identical to the sensor device 20 and / or actuators or other components that are associated with a relatively high data rate, i.e., at least temporarily transmitting and / or receiving data at a high data rate (e.g., components for providing and / or processing image or video data, such as radar signal processors, lidar (LIDAR), etc.). Elements E13a, E13b, E13c, and E13d exemplarily represent control devices, such as zone control devices (e.g., "zonal ECU(s)"), for example, in accordance with... Figure 2 The control devices 10 are similar or identical. Elements collectively indicated by reference numeral E14 represent (e.g., conventional) sensors and / or actuators, which are associated, for example, with relatively low data rates.

[0055] The principles of these embodiments can be advantageously used in one or more components of a communication system 1000a, for example in the regions of elements E11a, E11b, E11c, E12a, ..., E12d and / or in the regions of elements E13a, E13b, ..., E13d, E12a, E12b, ..., E12d, thereby achieving reliable synchronization in other exemplary embodiments, for example at least in the time domain ZB-2 ( Figure 3 In addition, at least some data connections DV' in these time domains are placed in a power-saving state, for example, according to EEE.

[0056] Figure 8 A simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000b according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically, in which the principles of these embodiments can be used. Element E20 exemplaryly represents a vehicle computer, for example, at least similar to those according to... Figure 2 The other unit 30. Here, the vehicle computer E20 exemplarily has three interface devices S1, S2, and S3, such as Ethernet (e.g., automotive Ethernet). The vehicle computer E20 has a computing device E21, such as an image signal processor, for processing image or video signals provided by multiple sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N through corresponding data connections DV-1, DV-2, ... DV-M and associated interface devices S4, S5, and S6.

[0057] For example, the vehicle computer E20 has, for instance, a central time reference or time setting device E20-CLK, and can transmit time information and / or synchronization information to sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N via data connections DV-1, DV-2, ..., DV-M, for example, using a protocol for time synchronization, PROT-ZS (e.g., gPTP). These sensor devices can, for example, adapt to or check their local time reference or time setting devices 20-1-CLK, 20-2-CLK, ..., 20-N-CLK. To receive time information and / or synchronization information via data connections DV-1, DV-2, ..., DV-M, sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N have the already described interface devices S4, S5, S6. In another exemplary embodiment, these interface devices S4, S5, S6 can also receive, for example, usage data, such as control data for the operation of sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N.

[0058] According to an exemplary embodiment, the message MSG-PROT-ZS of the protocol PROT-ZS used for time synchronization is configured with CFG-ESZ for the energy-saving states 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ of at least one component (e.g., control equipment and / or sensor device). Figure 2 Coordination is performed, so in another exemplary embodiment, reliable time synchronization of components E20-CLK, 20-1-CLK, 20-2-CLK, ..., 20-N-CLK can be achieved outside the corresponding energy-saving state.

[0059] Figure 9 A simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000c according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically, in which the principles of these embodiments can be used. Element E20' exemplarily represents a vehicle computer, which here exemplarily has N interface devices S1, S2, ..., SN according to these embodiments, and a gPTP time setting unit, such as a gPTP-based master clock ("GM") E22. Exemplarily, network coupling elements, such as a switch E23, may be provided, for example, to couple the interface devices S1, S2, ..., SN to each other and / or to at least one other component (e.g., computing device E21) of the vehicle computer E20'.

[0060] Element E25, for example, represents a gPTP bridging device, which may be implemented, for example, by means of or within a zone control device, that can exchange, for example, distribute messages MSG-PROT-ZS, such as gPTP messages, between the vehicle computer E20' and (here, for example, two) sensor devices E26, E27 (in other exemplary embodiments, more or fewer sensor devices E26, E27 may also be conceivable). For example, the gPTP bridging device E25 also has interface devices SR, SS, ST for this purpose, as do the sensor devices E26, E27, see elements SX, SY. The corresponding data connection, for example, is of Ethernet type, such as automotive Ethernet type, in... Figure 9 For clarity, it is not marked.

[0061] Similarly, the gPTP bridging device E25 has a local time setting device E25a. Likewise, the sensor devices E26 and E27 have local time setting devices E26a and E27a, respectively.

[0062] In another exemplary embodiment, Figure 9 The time setting devices E22, E25a, E26a, and E27a of different components E20', E25, E26, and E27 can be synchronized using the principles according to these implementations, for example, by coordinating the message MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol used for time synchronization with the configuration CFG-ESZ for the energy-saving state of at least one component E25, SS, ST, E26, SX, E27, and SY.

[0063] For example, in some time domains ZB-1, ZB-3 ( Figure 3 In this context, the timing devices E22, E25a, E26a, and E27a of different components E20', E25, E26, and E27 can be timed using the PROT-ZS protocol. Figure 9 Synchronization is performed, for example, with the CFG-ESZ configuration used for energy-saving states. For example, in some time-domain ZB-2 ( Figure 3 In this context, the synchronization of the time setting devices E25a, E26a, and E27a for different components E25, E26, and E27 can be omitted, for example, in coordination with the configuration CFG-ESZ for energy-saving mode.

[0064] For example, the data connection between components E20' and E25 does not use an energy-saving mode, so that synchronization can always be performed using the PROT-ZS protocol through this data connection.

[0065] For example, the data connection between components E25, E26, and E27 is at least temporarily, for example, in the second time domain ZB-2 ( Figure 3The energy-saving state is adopted in the second time domain ZB-2, so that the synchronization of the time setting devices E25a, E26a, and E27a of different components E25, E26, and E27 cannot be performed through the data connection.

[0066] Figure 10 A simplified sequence diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is schematically shown. Element E30 represents a vehicle computer, for example, for motor vehicle 1 ( Figure 6 For example, the vehicle computer E30 at least temporarily assumes the role of the gPTP master clock (GM). Element E31 represents the gPTP master port, and element E32 represents a configuration device, which, for example, provides gPTP configuration, see element e1. Optionally, the configuration device may also provide a time schedule (e.g., an "EEE schedule") for the energy-saving state of at least one component, see element e2, for example, corresponding to or characterizing the configuration CFG-ESZ (…). Figure 2 At least a part of ).

[0067] Element E33 indicates a zone control device, such as one that operates at least temporarily as a gPTP bridge, for example, in accordance with... Figure 2 The control device 10 is similar or identical. Element E34 represents a gPTP slave port, through which messages can be received, for example, from the vehicle computer E30, while E36 represents a client, such as an LPI (low power idle) client, which is configured, for example, to control aspects of energy-saving states (e.g., EEE LPI).

[0068] Element E37 indicates a sensor device, such as those used in conjunction with... Figure 2 The sensor device 20 is similar or identical, for example, as “gPTP ES”, and element E38 represents the gPTP slave port, which receives messages from the area control device E33 from element E35 (representing the gPTP master port).

[0069] Element P1 represents the initialization phase. Element P2 represents the normal operation phase, where, for example, energy-saving mode is not used. Element P3 represents the phase associated with energy-saving mode, where the downlink from the area control device E33 to the sensor device E37 (e.g., similar to...) Figure 2 The first data connection (DV-1) is placed in an EEE-based energy-saving state (e.g., LPI type). Element P4 represents the normal operation phase, where, for example, no energy-saving state is used, analogous to operation phase P2.

[0070] Elements e3, e4, e5, e6, e15, e16, e17, and e18 represent messages used for synchronization, such as gPTP, while elements e26, e27, e28, e29, e30, e31, e32, and e33 represent corrections (e.g., "clock adjustments") of the time-setting device of components E33 and E37, performed based on messages e3, e4, e5, e6, e15, e16, e17, and e18.

[0071] Elements e7, e10, e19, and e22 represent gPTP delayed requests, elements e8, e11, e20, and e23 represent associated gPTP delayed responses, and elements e9, e12, e21, and e24 represent associated gPTP follow-up responses.

[0072] Element e13 indicates a message indicating entry into the EEE power-saving state (as is the case with element e25), and element e14 indicates a message indicating exit from the EEE power-saving state.

[0073] In another exemplary embodiment, utilizing the principles of these embodiments, the exchange of messages for time synchronization (e.g., gPTP messages) is not performed during phase P3 of the power-saving state. More precisely, the exchange of messages for time synchronization (e.g., gPTP messages) is coordinated with the configuration of the power-saving state (see, for example, element e2) such that messages for time synchronization (e.g., gPTP messages) are exchanged between components E33 and E37 outside of phase P3. This coordination according to the other exemplary embodiment enables effective synchronization, for example, when the power-saving state is not activated.

[0074] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of these embodiments are used, for example, in vehicle 1 ( Figure 6 In the communication systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, and 1000c, for example, to connect the sensor module or sensor device 20 to the Internet, or to establish data connections DV-1 and DV-2 from the sensor module or sensor device 20 to the control device 10 or the vehicle computer 30, and to achieve effective synchronization.

[0075] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of these embodiments can be advantageously applied, for example, to products with power loss limitations (e.g., to avoid excessive self-heating) and / or to sensor devices 20 with asymmetric data flow characteristics (e.g., the amount of data used to transmit data (e.g., image or video data and / or other data associated with a relatively large amount of information) to control device 10, while the amount of data used to receive data (e.g., control data) from control device 10 is relatively small).

[0076] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of these embodiments may be used, for example, in automotive BASE-T1 Ethernet systems, but in other exemplary embodiments, they are not limited to automotive single-pair twisted-pair communication technology.

[0077] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of these embodiments can be used, for example, for a camera sensor (e.g., as sensor device 20), which has an uplink rate (e.g., from the camera of the camera sensor to other control devices) much higher than the downlink rate (from the control device to the camera sensor). For example, the local control device of the camera sensor (e.g., the camera ECU) sends captured camera sensor data to the target via the uplink and receives, for example, image-specific information, such as adjusting exposure or controlling the recording time, via the downlink. In another exemplary embodiment, in this configuration, information sent via the downlink is sent in an interval manner, where the corresponding message has, for example, only a relatively small number of bits. In this configuration, the channel is used asymmetrically, for example, and the implementation of the power-saving state EZS (e.g., based on EEE) can be advantageous for energy-efficient use. In another exemplary embodiment, the components involved can be effectively synchronized using the principles of these embodiments, such that the time synchronization of the camera module is consistent with the stage ZB-2 of the power-saving state (…). Figure 3 P3 Figure 10 (To be coordinated)

[0078] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of these embodiments, for example, can be used in radar sensors, such as those used in the field of motor vehicles, where data bursts can be generated because, for example, the antenna front end is sequentially used to transmit radar signals and to receive signals reflected, for example, at environmental objects. Data bursts can also, for example, result in asymmetric characteristics of data traffic, allowing for energy savings, for example, the use of EEE (Electronic Energy Efficiency).

[0079] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of these embodiments can be used, for example, in a communication system, such as for vehicle 1 ( Figure 6 Some of these components frequently send (e.g., "broadcast") information to multiple, such as all other components, but receive relatively little data. Similarly, EEE can be used, for example, to save energy.

[0080] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of these embodiments can be used, for example, in systems for acquiring (and optionally recording) data, such as for data logging, where data streams, such as those from sensor data from a prototype vehicle, are transmitted and stored, where energy saving is also achieved, for example, by using EEE in coordination with messages for time synchronization.

[0081] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of these embodiments can be used, for example, for time synchronization of components that are temporarily placed in an energy-saving state or for data transmission at a reduced data rate. If, for example, the vehicle communication system enters an operating state that does not require a large amount of accurate sensor data, in another exemplary embodiment, the communication characteristics can be switched to an energy-saving mode (e.g., in the case of using EEE), in which communication can be quickly restarted (e.g., within a relatively short startup time, for example, a few minutes). In this operating state, for example, after the vehicle has stopped or stopped at a traffic light, in another exemplary embodiment, it may not be necessary to collect, for example, long-range radar data. Therefore, in another exemplary embodiment, the communication connection can be switched to a static or EEE state.

[0082] Other exemplary implementations, Figure 11 This relates to methods and / or devices 200 and / or control devices 10 and / or sensor devices 20 and / or systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c and / or vehicles 1 and / or computer-readable storage media SM and / or computer programs PRG and / or data carrier signals DCS for use 300 of at least one of the following elements: a) coordinating the exchange of at least one message MSG-PROT-ZS of the time synchronization protocol PROT-ZS with the energy-saving configuration CFG-ESZ of the at least one component (e.g., control devices and / or sensor devices); b) coordinating the time setting device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20 with the energy-saving configuration CFG-ESZ of the at least one component (e.g., control devices and / or sensor devices). Figure 2 302) Synchronize the time setting device 10-CLK of the control device 10 with the time setting device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20, for example, the time setting device 30-CLK of the central control device 30, 303; d) Distribute time information in systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c or said systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, for example, between more than two components 10, 20, 30, e) Keep the system or two or more components 10, 20, 30 synchronized, for example, in the case of at least a temporary power-saving state, f) Orchestrate the messages of the time synchronization protocol with the configuration for the power-saving state, 306; g) Determine 307 the configuration for the power-saving state.

Claims

1. A method for processing data associated with time information, such as a computer-implemented method, said data being, for example, data from a control device (10) and / or a product connectable to the control device (10), such as data from a sensor device (20) connectable to the control device (10), wherein the method comprises: The message (MSG-PROT-ZS) for time synchronization, such as for synchronizing the control device (10) with the sensor device (20) and / or with at least one other unit (30), is coordinated (100) with the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) of at least one component, such as the control device (10) and / or the sensor device (20).

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising: For example, based on the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for energy-saving states (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), messages (MSG-PROT-ZS) for time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) are exchanged (102), such as sent (102a) and / or received (102b).

3. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS) is constructed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: a) Precision Time Protocol (PTP), IEEE 1588, b) Universal Precision Time Protocol (gPTP), IEEE 802.1AS.

4. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: Information, such as data, is exchanged (102c) via at least one data connection (DV-1, DV-2), for example in the form of a message, wherein the at least one data connection (DV-1, DV-2) is configured as an Ethernet data connection, such as an automotive Ethernet data connection, for example according to or based on at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.3bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3cz, g) IEEE 802.3dh.

5. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) is constructed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: Energy-saving Ethernet, IEEE 802.3az.

6. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following elements: a) providing (110), for example creating a configuration (CFG-ESZ) for power saving states (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), and / or b) determining (112) a configuration (CFG-ESZ) for power saving states (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), wherein, for example, the determination (112) includes b1) observing (112a) data traffic associated with a protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS), b2) predicting (112b) future data traffic associated with a protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS), for example predicting future messages of a protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS), and / or c) receiving (114) a configuration (CFG-ESZ) for power saving states (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), for example receiving from the at least one additional element (30).

7. An apparatus (200) for performing the method according to at least one of the preceding claims.

8. A control device (10), comprising the device (200) according to claim 7.

9. A product, such as a sensor device (20), comprising the device (200) according to claim 7.

10. A system (1000) comprising at least one device (200) according to claim 7 and / or at least one control device (10) according to claim 8 and / or at least one sensor device (20) according to claim 9.

11. A vehicle, such as a motor vehicle (1), having at least one device (200) according to claim 7 and / or at least one control device (10) according to claim 8 and / or at least one sensor device (20) according to claim 9 and / or at least one system (1000) according to claim 10.

12. A computer-readable storage medium (SM) comprising instructions (PRG) that, when executed by a computer (202), cause the computer to perform the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 6.

13. A computer program (PRG) comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer (202), cause the computer to perform the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 6.

14. A data carrier signal (DCS) for transmitting and / or characterizing a computer program (PRG) according to claim 13.

15. The method according to at least one of claims 1 to 6 and / or the device (200) according to claim 7 and / or the control device (10) according to claim 8 and / or the sensor device (20) according to claim 9 and / or the system (1000) according to claim 10 and / or the vehicle (1) according to claim 11 and / or the computer-readable storage medium (SM) according to claim 12 and / or the computer program (PRG) according to claim 13 and / or the data carrier signal (DCS) according to claim 14 for use in at least one of the following elements: a) coordinating (301) the exchange of at least one message (MSG-PROT-ZS) of a protocol for time synchronization with the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) of at least one component, such as the control device (10) and / or the sensor device (20), b) the time setting device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20). (a) Synchronize (302) the time setting device (10-CLK) of the control device (10), (b) Synchronize (303) the time setting device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the time setting device (30-CLK) of, for example, the central control device (30), (c) Distribute (304) time information in the system (1000) or the system (1000), for example, between more than two components (10, 20, 30), (d) Make the system (1000) or the system (1000) two One or more components (10, 20, 30) are kept synchronized (305), for example, when the power-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) is used at least temporarily, f) the message (MSG-PROT-ZS) of the protocol (PROT-ZS) for time synchronization is orchestrated with the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the power-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) (306), g) the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the power-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) is determined (307)

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