Method and apparatus for processing data associated with time information
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-01-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-11
Smart Images
Figure CN122556037A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Background Technology
[0001] This disclosure relates to a method for processing data associated with time information.
[0002] This disclosure also relates to an apparatus for processing data associated with time information. Summary of the Invention
[0003] Exemplary embodiments relate to a method for processing data associated with time information, such as a computer-implemented method, for example for a control device and / or for at least one sensor device, the control device being connectable to and / or connected to at least one sensor device via a first data connection, wherein the method comprises: using a time synchronization protocol in a first time range to synchronize the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device; and using a clock recovery signal in a second time range different from the first time range for at least one of: a) maintaining the synchronization of the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device, and / or b) synchronizing, for example, resynchronizing, the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device.
[0004] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of the embodiment may be used, for example, for establishing or rebuilding synchronization and / or for maintaining synchronization, in relation to the control device or the control device.
[0005] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of the embodiment may be used, for example, for establishing or rebuilding synchronization and / or for maintaining synchronization, for at least one sensor device or the at least one sensor device or the sensor device.
[0006] In another exemplary implementation, 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), i.e., IEEE 1588; b) Generalized Precision Time Protocol (gPTP), i.e., IEEE 802.1AS; c) Synchronous Ethernet (SyncE); d) "White Rabbit".
[0007] In another exemplary implementation, the signal for clock recovery is specified to be associated with Layer 1 of the ISO / OSI layer model, for example, a signal of Layer 1 of the ISO / OSI layer model.
[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to include: for example, in at least one third time range, using, for example, repeatedly, for example, periodically using the time synchronization protocol to synchronize or resynchronize the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device, wherein, for example, the at least one third time range is different from the first time range and / or different from the second time range.
[0009] In other exemplary implementations, the first data connection is configured as an Ethernet data connection, such as an automotive Ethernet data connection, based on or according to at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3bv, g) IEEE 802.cz.
[0010] In another exemplary implementation, the method is specified to include: at least during the second time period, for example at least for the data transmission direction associated with the first data connection toward the at least one sensor device, activating an energy-saving state, for example according to and / or based on at least the following criteria: high-efficiency Ethernet, i.e., IEEE 802.3az.
[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to include: during the energy-saving state, maintaining and / or updating the clock device of the at least one sensor device to be synchronized with the clock device of the control device by means of a signal for clock recovery.
[0012] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to include: using the time synchronization protocol to synchronize the clock device of the control device with at least one other unit, such as a central control device, such as a vehicle computer's clock device, wherein, for example, using the time synchronization protocol to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one other unit has at least one of the following elements: a) during a first time range, using the time synchronization protocol to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one other unit, and / or b) during a second time range, using the time synchronization protocol to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one other unit, and / or c) during at least one third time range or during the at least one third time range, using the time synchronization protocol to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one other unit.
[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to include, for example, optionally A) synchronizing, for example, between a central control device and the at least one sensor device when using the time synchronization protocol, and / or B) synchronizing, for example, between a central control device and the control device when using the time synchronization protocol, and between the control device and the at least one sensor device when using a clock recovery signal, synchronizing, for example, between the clock device and the at least one sensor device, the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the central control device.
[0014] In another exemplary embodiment, the method is specified to have at least one of the following elements: a) receiving, for example, a message of a time synchronization protocol from another unit or the other unit; b) sending the message of the time synchronization protocol to the at least one sensor device; c) sending a signal for clock recovery to the at least one sensor device; d) receiving the signal for clock recovery through the at least one sensor device, and using the signal for clock recovery for at least one of the following elements: d1) maintaining synchronization between the clock device of the at least one sensor device and the clock device of the control device; and / or d2) synchronizing, for example, resynchronizing, the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device.
[0015] Another exemplary embodiment relates to an apparatus for implementing the method according to the embodiment.
[0016] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a control device, which, for example, is connectable to and / or connected to at least one sensor device via a first data connection, having means according to the embodiment.
[0017] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a sensor device that is connected to a control device, such as the control device described in the embodiment, via a first data connection or the first data connection being capable of being connected to a control device, such as the control device described in the embodiment, and having the means according to the embodiment.
[0018] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a system having at least one means according to the embodiment and / or at least one control device according to the embodiment and / or at least one sensor device according to the embodiment.
[0019] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle, having at least one device according to the embodiment and / or at least one control device according to the embodiment and / or at least one sensor device according to the embodiment and / or at least one system according to the embodiment.
[0020] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer-readable storage medium including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the embodiment.
[0021] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer program including instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the embodiment.
[0022] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a data carrier signal that transmits and / or characterizes a computer program according to the embodiment.
[0023] 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 embodiments for at least one of the following elements: a) synchronizing the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device; b) synchronizing the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of, for example, a central control device; c) distributing time information in the system or, for example, among more than two components in the system; d) keeping two or more components of the system synchronized, for example, using at least two different mechanisms; e) using signals for clock recovery for synchronization, at least temporarily; f) maintaining synchronization of the system or its components, for example, even though at least some data connections of the system are at least temporarily placed in a power-saving state or the power-saving state.
[0024] Further features, applications, and advantages of the invention are given below by description of embodiments of the invention, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Hereinafter, all features described or illustrated, individually or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their generalization in the claims or reference thereto, and regardless of their representation or indication in the specification or drawings. Attached Figure Description
[0025] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 2 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 3 A simplified timing diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 4 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 5 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 6 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 7 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 8 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 9 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 10 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 11 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 12 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 13 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 14 A simplified flowchart according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 15 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 16 The use of the invention according to an exemplary embodiment is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation
[0026] Exemplary implementation methods Figure 1 , 2 This relates to a method for processing data associated with time information, such as a computer-implemented method, for example, for controlling device 10 ( Figure 2 The control device is capable of connecting and / or connecting to at least one sensor device 20 via a first data connection DV-1; and / or for at least one sensor device 20, wherein the method comprises: in a first time range ZB-1 (see according to Figure 3 In the timing diagram, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization is used to synchronize the clock device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20. Figure 2 Synchronize with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 using SYNCH-20-10; in a second time range ZB-2 (different from the first time range ZB-1) Figure 3 In the above, the SIG-CR signal 102 used for clock recovery is used for at least one of the following elements: a) maintaining the synchronization of the clock device 20-CLK of at least one sensor device 20 with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10, and / or b) synchronizing the clock device 20-CLK of at least one sensor device 20 with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10, for example, resynchronizing RESYNCH-20-10.
[0027] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 2In such cases, for example, for control device 10 or said control device 10, or in control device 10 or said control device 10, the principles according to the implementation can be used, for example by means of means 200 for implementing aspects according to the exemplary implementation, for example for establishing or rebuilding synchronization SYNCH-20-10 and / or for maintaining synchronization SYNCH-20-10.
[0028] In some examples, device 200 is, for example, a physical layer device or integrated into a physical layer device.
[0029] In some example cases, such as when device 200 is used to control device 10, device 200 may be configured, for example, at least temporarily, as a so-called "master device".
[0030] In some example cases, such as when using device 200 for sensor device 20, device 200 may be configured, for example, at least temporarily, as a so-called "slave".
[0031] In other exemplary embodiments, for example, the principles of the embodiment may be used for at least one sensor device 20 or the at least one sensor device 20, or in the sensor device 20 or the sensor device 20, for example by means of means 200 for implementing aspects of the exemplary embodiment, such as for establishing or rebuilding synchronization SYNCH-20-10 and / or for maintaining synchronization SYNCH-20-10. In other words, in some example cases, the at least one sensor device 20 may at least temporarily implement at least one of the following aspects: a) receiving a signal SIG-CR for clock recovery, and using the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery for at least one of the following elements: a1) maintaining synchronization of the clock device of the at least one sensor device 20 with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10, and / or a2) synchronizing, for example, resynchronizing, the clock device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20 with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10.
[0032] In another exemplary implementation, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization may be used for the SYNCH-20-10 synchronization, and / or the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery may be used, which, in another exemplary implementation, increases flexibility regarding the establishment or reconstruction of the SYNCH-20-10 synchronization and / or regarding the maintenance of the SYNCH-20-10 synchronization.
[0033] In another exemplary implementation, 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, i.e., IEEE 1588, b) Universal Precision Time Protocol gPTP, i.e., IEEE 802.1AS, c) Synchronous Ethernet (SyncE), d) "White Rabbit".
[0034] In another exemplary implementation, the signal SIG-CR used for clock recovery is associated with Layer 1 of the ISO / OSI layer model, for example, it is a Layer 1 signal of the ISO / OSI layer model. In contrast, gPTP operates, for example, at Layer 2 of the ISO / OSI layer model.
[0035] according to Figure 1 The optional box 104 symbolically represents, for example, an exemplary data transmission of sensor data from the at least one sensor device 20 to the control device 10 via data connection DV-1.
[0036] In another example, it is also possible to give the same as in Figure 1 The sequences illustrated in the examples, such as boxes 102 and 104, represent different temporal sequences. For example, in some examples, it is also possible that the processes of boxes 102 and 104 overlap at least temporarily and / or at least partially in time. For example, an advantage of some examples is the use of a (recovered) clock signal to maintain synchronization, even "during" data transmission on the line (because in some examples, the signal is always present at the receiver, for example, as long as the link is active).
[0037] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 4 In the case specified, the method has: for example, in at least a third time range ZB-3 ( Figure 3 In the process, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, for example, repeatedly or periodically using 110a, is used to synchronize the clock device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20. Figure 2 The clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 is synchronized or resynchronized, wherein, for example, at least one third time range ZB-3 is different from the first time range ZB-1 and / or different from the second time range ZB-2.
[0038] according to Figure 4 The optional box 112 symbolically represents the clock device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20 when using the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery. Figure 2The optional synchronization SYNCH-20-10 or resynchronization of the clock device 10-CLK with the control device 10, for example outside the third time range ZB-3 (and / or outside the first time range ZB-1), also see Figure 3 The dot “…” in the middle.
[0039] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 In certain circumstances, the first data connection DV-1 is configured as an Ethernet data connection, such as an automotive Ethernet data connection, according to or based on at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3bv, g) IEEE 802.cz.
[0040] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 5 In the case specified, the method has the following features: at least in the second time range ZB-2, for example at least for the data transmission direction (“downlink”) associated with the first data connection DV-1 toward the at least one sensor device 20, the 120 energy-saving state ESZ is activated, for example according to and / or based on at least the following criteria: Energy Efficient Ethernet, i.e., IEEE 802.3az.
[0041] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 5 In the specified case, the method comprises: during the energy-saving state ESZ, maintaining and / or updating the clock device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20 of 122a and / or updating 122b at least SYNCH-20-10 synchronized with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 by means of a signal SIG-CR for clock recovery. Therefore, according to Figure 5Optional measures 122a and / or 122b (commonly identified by box 122) enable, in other exemplary embodiments, the maintenance and / or updating of SYNCH-20-10 synchronization, even during energy-saving states (ESZ), in which protocols such as PROT-ZS for time synchronization, such as gPTP, are unavailable or unrestricted due to the ESZ (e.g., in the downlink direction), for example, because the clock recovery signal SIG-CR operates at Layer 1 of the ISO / OSI layer model, unlike gPTP which utilizes Layer 2 of the ISO / OSI layer model. Thus, in other exemplary embodiments, reliable synchronization of SYNCH-20-10 or maintenance of SYNCH-20-10 is advantageously made possible even during energy-saving states (ESZ), even within the time range ZB-2 in which gPTP is unavailable.
[0042] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 In the specified case, the method includes: using the PROT-ZS protocol 130 for time synchronization to control the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10. Figure 2 Synchronize with at least one other unit 30, such as a central control device 30, or a clock device 30-CLK of a vehicle computer, SYNCH-10-30.
[0043] For example, the other unit 30 can be connected to or connected to the control device 10 via the second data connection DV-2, and can exchange PROT-ZS protocol message N-1 for time synchronization SYNCH-10-30 with the control device 10 via the second data connection.
[0044] In another exemplary embodiment, in order to perform synchronization SYNCH-20-10 between the control device 10 and the at least one sensor device 20, at least within the time range ZB-1, ZB-3 ( Figure 3 In the energy-saving state ESZ, messages N-2 of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization can be exchanged in a comparable manner via the first data connection DV-1. In another exemplary embodiment, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization can therefore be used between components 10 and 30, or between components 10 and 20; however, between components 10 and 20, for example, only within the time ranges ZB-1 and ZB-3 as follows (…). Figure 3 Used in: During the time range, the energy-saving state ESZ is not active, for example, for the downlink from component 10 to component 20.
[0045] In the energy-saving state ESZ, such as for the downlink from component 10 to component 20, the time range ZB-2 is active. Figure 3 During this period, for example in the downlink via the first data connection DV-1, the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery can be advantageously used for synchronization SYNCH-20-10 between the control device 10 and the at least one sensor device 20, because the signal, in another exemplary embodiment, is an ISO / OSI Layer 1 signal and is not affected by the EEE-based power saving state ESZ.
[0046] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 In the case of using the PROT-ZS protocol 130 for time synchronization to synchronize the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 with the at least one additional unit 30, SYNCH-10-30 has at least one of the following elements: a) during a first time range ZB-1, the PROT-ZS protocol 130a for time synchronization is used to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one additional unit, and / or b) during a second time range ZB-2, the PROT-ZS protocol 130b for time synchronization is used to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one additional unit, and / or c) during at least one third time range ZB-3 or the at least one third time range ZB-3, the PROT-ZS protocol 130c for time synchronization is used to synchronize the clock device of the control device with the at least one additional unit.
[0047] In other words, in other exemplary implementations, during all the above-described time ranges ZB-1, ZB-2, ZB-3, ... ( Figure 3 During this period, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization can be used to synchronize the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 with the at least one other unit 30 (SYNCH-10-30). For example, because the second data connection DV-2 is not in power-saving state (ESZ), the power-saving state may, for example, at least temporarily affect the use of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization to synchronize the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 with the at least one other unit 30 (SYNCH-10-30).
[0048] However, as long as the second data connection DV-2 will be at least temporarily, for example, placed in a power-saving state ESZ in the downlink direction from component 30 to component 10, which may at least temporarily affect the use of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization to synchronize the clock device 10-CLK of control device 10 with the at least one other unit 30, the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery (not shown for DV-2) can also be used at least temporarily between components 30 and 10, i.e. via the second data connection DV-2, in order to maintain synchronization SYNCH-10-30.
[0049] In some examples, such as even on "normally active" connections, there is a possibility of simultaneously using the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery. In this case, the power consumption is higher, for example, than required in other examples. In some examples, combining the two variants can still be meaningful, for example, to achieve higher accuracy or reduce the additional "data traffic" caused by the PROT-ZS protocol.
[0050] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 6 In the specified case, the method includes: for example, optionally A) using the PROT-ZS protocol 132b for time synchronization, for example between the central control device 30 and the at least one sensor device 20, and / or B) using the PROT-ZS protocol 132c for time synchronization, for example between the central control device 30 and the control device 10 (i.e., on the second data connection DV-2), and using the SIG-CR signal 132d for clock recovery, synchronizing the clock device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20 with the clock device 30-CLK of the central control device 30, for example, resynchronizing it, for example, 132a, between the control device 10 and the at least one sensor device 20 (i.e., on the first data connection DV-1).
[0051] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 7In the specified case, the method has at least one of the following elements: a) receiving, for example, a PROT-ZS protocol message N-1 for time synchronization from another unit 30 or the other unit 30, for example, via control device 10, for example, via a second data connection DV-2; b) sending a PROT-ZS protocol message N-2 for time synchronization to the at least one sensor device 20, for example, via control device 10, for example, via a first data connection DV-1; c) sending a SIG-CR signal for clock recovery to the at least one sensor device 20, for example, via control device 10, for example, via a second data connection DV-2.
[0052] In some example cases, if, for example, control device 10 sends a signal SIG-CR for clock recovery to the at least one sensor device 20 (see, for example, according to...) Figure 7 If (in block 144), then, for example, based on the signal SIG-CR used for clock recovery, the at least one sensor device 20 can maintain synchronization.
[0053] Other exemplary embodiments, Figure 8 The invention relates to an apparatus 200 for implementing the method according to the embodiment.
[0054] In another exemplary embodiment, device 200 is, for example, assigned to control device 10 ( Figure 2 For example, it can be integrated into the control device 10.
[0055] 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.
[0056] 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.
[0057] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 8 In the specified case, the apparatus 200 includes: a computing device (“computer”) 202 having at least one computing core 202a, and a storage device 204 allocated to the computing device 202 for storing at least one of the following elements at least temporarily: a) data DAT (e.g., data associated with SYNCH-20-10, SYNCH-10-30 synchronization); b) a computer program PRG, for example for implementing the method according to the embodiment.
[0058] In another exemplary embodiment, storage device 204 has 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 another memory type not explicitly mentioned.
[0059] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer-readable storage medium SM, including instructions PRG that, when executed by a computer 202, cause the computer to perform the method according to the embodiment.
[0060] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a computer program PRG, including instructions that, when executed by computer 202, cause the computer to perform the method according to the embodiment.
[0061] Another exemplary embodiment relates to a data carrier signal DCS that represents and / or transmits a computer program PRG according to the embodiment. The data carrier signal DCS can be exchanged (received and / or transmitted), for example, via an optional data interface 206 of device 200, wherein the optional data interface 206 can be configured, for example, for use via data connections DV-1, DV-2 (…). Figure 2 At least one of them exchanges information (e.g., transmits the signal SIG-CR), such as exchanging data (e.g., data associated with the PROT-Z protocol and / or sensor data and / or control data).
[0062] Other exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 The invention relates to a control device 10, which is capable of being connected to and / or connected to at least one sensor device 20, for example via a first data connection DV-1, and has a device 200 according to an embodiment.
[0063] Other exemplary embodiments, Figure 2 The invention relates to a sensor device 20, which is capable of being connected to a control device, such as the control device 10 according to an embodiment, via a first data connection DV-1 or the first data connection DV-1, and has a device 200 according to an embodiment.
[0064] Alternatively, in another exemplary embodiment, the additional unit 30 may also have the apparatus 200 described in the exemplary embodiment.
[0065] Other exemplary embodiments, Figure 2The invention relates to a system 1000 having at least one device 200 according to an embodiment and / or at least one control device 10 according to an embodiment and / or at least one sensor device 20 according to an embodiment.
[0066] Other exemplary embodiments, Figure 9 The invention relates to a vehicle, such as a motor vehicle 1, having at least one device 200 according to an embodiment and / or at least one control device 10 according to an embodiment and / or at least one sensor device 20 according to an embodiment and / or at least one system 1000 according to an embodiment.
[0067] Figure 10 A simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000a according to an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Element E10 symbolically represents a gateway, for example, for connecting at least some components of the communication system 1000a to at least one other communication system or communication network (not shown).
[0068] Elements E11a, E11b, and E11c exemplarily symbolically represent central control devices (e.g., "(one or more) central ECU(s)"), for example, in accordance with... Figure 2 The control device 10 is similar to or the same as the control device. Elements E12a, E12b, E12c, and E12d exemplarily symbolically represent sensor devices (e.g., according to...). Figure 2 The sensor device 20 is similar to or identical to the sensor device 20 and / or the actuator or other components associated with a relatively high data rate, which therefore, for example, transmits and / or receives data at a high data rate at least temporarily (e.g., components for providing and / or processing image data or video data, such as radar signal processing devices, lidar, etc.). Elements E13a, E13b, E13c, E13d exemplarily symbolically represent control devices, such as zone control devices (e.g., "(one or more) zone ECUs"). Elements commonly identified by reference numeral E14 symbolically represent sensors and / or actuators that, for example, have a relatively low, for example, lower, requirement for the corresponding data rate compared to elements E12a, E12b, ...
[0069] In the case of one or more components of the communication system 1000a, the principles according to the implementation can be advantageously used, for example, within the range of elements E11a, E11b, E11c, E12a, ..., E12d, thereby in the case of other exemplary implementations, for example according to EEE, even in the time range ZB-2 ( Figure 3Reliable synchronization is also achieved in this process, with at least some data connections (DV') placed in a power-saving state during the specified time range. In some example cases, according to... Figure 10 Data connection DV', for example, with according to Figure 2 The data connection is comparable to DV-1, because in some examples, the data connection can represent, for example, the connection between area control device E13a and sensor E12b.
[0070] Other examples Figure 10 This relates to a method for a system, such as system 1000 as described in this disclosure.
[0071] In some example cases, the system has: a computing device associated with a first level, such as a first layer, for example, a vehicle computer; at least one computing device associated with a second level, such as a second layer, for example, a regional control device; and at least one device associated with a third level, such as a third layer, for example, a sensor device.
[0072] In some example cases, the method for the system includes: at least temporarily using the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization to synchronize the clock device of at least one computing device at the second level (e.g., an area control device) with the clock device of a computing device at the first level (e.g., a vehicle computer); and at least temporarily using the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery for at least one of the following elements: a) maintaining the synchronization of the clock device of the second-level computing device with the clock device of the first-level computing device, and / or b) synchronizing the clock device of the second-level computing device with the clock device of the first-level computing device, for example, resynchronizing. In some example cases, for example, the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization may be used first to synchronize the clock device of at least one computing device at the second level (e.g., an area control device) with the clock device of the first-level computing device, and then, if necessary, additionally (or separately) using the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery, for example, for at least one of the following elements: a) maintaining the synchronization of the clock device of the second-level computing device with the clock device of the first-level computing device, and / or b) synchronizing the clock device of the second-level computing device with the clock device of the first-level computing device, for example, resynchronizing.
[0073] In some example cases, the method for the system includes: at least temporarily using the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization to synchronize the clock device of at least one device at the third level (e.g., a sensor device) with the clock device of at least one computing device at the second level (e.g., a zone control device); at least temporarily using the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery for at least one of the following elements: a) maintaining the synchronization of the clock device of the third level device with the clock device of at least one computing device at the second level, and / or b) synchronizing, for example, resynchronizing, the clock device of the third level device with the clock device of at least one computing device at the second level.
[0074] In other words, the principles of this disclosure can also be used in some example cases, such as in the hierarchy or topology of system 1000 or, more generally, devices such as computing devices and / or sensor devices. The principles of this disclosure can also be used in some example cases, such as in a hierarchy with more than three levels.
[0075] Figure 11 A simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000b according to an exemplary embodiment is schematically shown, in which the principles of the embodiment can be used. Element E20 exemplarily symbolically represents a vehicle computer, for example, at least in accordance with... Figure 2 The other unit 30 is similar. The vehicle computer E20 currently exemplarily has three interface devices S1, S2, and S3, such as Ethernet type, such as automotive Ethernet type. 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 via corresponding data connections DV-1, DV-2, ..., DV-M and associated interface devices S4, S5, and S6.
[0076] For example, the vehicle computer E20 has, for instance, a central time base or clock 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 such as PROT-ZS, or gPTP. The sensor devices can, for example, adapt or verify their local time base or clock 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, the sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N have the described interface devices S4, S5, S6. In another exemplary embodiment, valid data, such as control data for the operation of sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N, and / or the clock recovery signal SIG-CR can also be received via these interface devices S4, S5, S6. With the aid of this signal, for example, when data connections DV-1, DV-2, ..., DV-M are in power-saving state ESZ in the downlink direction, the synchronization or synchronization maintenance of sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N with the central clock device E20-CLK can be performed.
[0077] Figure 12 A simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000c according to an exemplary embodiment is schematically shown, in which the principles of the embodiment can be used. Element E20' exemplarily symbolically represents a vehicle computer, which currently exemplarily has N interface devices S1, S2, ..., SN according to the embodiment, and a gPTP clock unit, such as a gPTP-based Grand Master ("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 of the vehicle computer E20', such as a computing device E21.
[0078] Element E25, for example, symbolically represents a gPTP bridging device, which can be implemented via or within a zone control device, enabling the exchange, for example, distribution of gPTP messages between the vehicle computer E20' and sensor devices E26 and E27. For example, the gPTP bridging device E25 also has interface devices SR, SS, and ST, just as sensor devices E26 and E27, see elements SX and SY. A corresponding data connection, for example, of Ethernet type, such as automotive Ethernet type, is provided. Figure 12 For clarity, the middle section is not marked.
[0079] Similarly, gPTP bridging device E25 has a local clock device E25a. Likewise, sensor devices E26 and E27 have local clock devices E26a and E27a, respectively.
[0080] In other exemplary embodiments, Figure 12 In this case, the clock devices E22, E25a, E26a, and E27a of different components E20', E25, E26, and E27 can be synchronized using the principle according to the implementation method.
[0081] For example, in some time ranges ZB-1, ZB-3 ( Figure 3 In ), the clock devices E22, E25a, E26a, and E27a of different components E20', E25, E26, and E27 ( Figure 12 Synchronization can be achieved using the PROT-ZS protocol. For example, within certain time ranges, ZB-2 (… Figure 3 In the process, the synchronization of the clock devices E25a, E26a, and E27a of the different components E25, E26, and E27 can be achieved using the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery.
[0082] For example, the data connection between components E20' and E25 does not use an energy-saving mode, so that the PROT-ZS protocol can always be used for synchronization via this data connection.
[0083] For example, the data connection between components E25, E26, and E27 is at least temporary, for example, in the second time range ZB-2 ( Figure 3 In the second time range ZB-2, the clock devices E25a, E26a, and E27a of different components E25, E26, and E27 can be synchronized via these data connections using the clock recovery signal SIG-CR. However, the time synchronization protocol PROT-ZS is temporarily unavailable due to the power-saving state EZS.
[0084] Figure 13 A simplified flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 12The communication system 1000c operates in aspects such as those relating to sensor devices E26, E27 and gPTP bridging device E25. Element E30 symbolically represents the data connection between active components E25, E26, and E27 (i.e., between E25 and E26, and between E25 and E27). Element E31 symbolically represents the synchronization of clock devices E26a and E26b of sensor devices E26 and E27 with clock device E25a of gPTP bridging device E25, respectively, when using the PROT-ZS protocol, such as gPTP. Element E32 symbolically represents the coupling, for example, "locking" of clock devices E23 and E25a with clock devices E26a and E26b of sensor devices E26 and E27 via a signal SIG-CR for clock recovery, said signal being transmitted, for example, from gPTP bridging device E25 to sensor devices E26 and E27. Exemplarily, the oscillator E25b, used to provide the clock recovery signal SIG-CR, can also be coupled to at least the clock device E25a. Element E33 symbolically represents, for example, activating the power-saving state EZS in the downlink direction from the gPTP bridging device E25 to the sensor devices E26, E27. Elements E34, E35 symbolically represent maintaining synchronization between the clock devices E26a, E26b of the sensor devices E26, E27 and the clock devices E25a, E20' when using the clock recovery signal SIG-CR. During processes E34, E35, the gPTP bridging device E25 can, for example, continue to keep its clock device E25a synchronized with the central clock device E23 by means of the protocol PROT-ZS, while the clock recovery signal SIG-CR is used to maintain synchronization between the clock devices E25a, E26a, E27a.
[0085] Figure 14 A simplified flowchart illustrating an exemplary embodiment is shown schematically. Figure 12Another aspect of the operation of the communication system 1000c, for example, concerns the gPTP bridging device E25 and the vehicle computer E20'. Element E40 symbolically indicates the activation of the data connection between components E20' and E25. Element E41 symbolically indicates the synchronization of the clock device E25a of the gPTP bridging device E25 with the central clock device E23 when using the PROT-ZS protocol, such as gPTP. Element E42 symbolically indicates the coupling, for example, "locking," of the oscillator E25b, which provides the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery, with the clock device E25a of the gPTP bridging device E25. This, for example, causes the synchronization of clock devices E23 and E25a, for example, by means of the PROT-ZS protocol, to also act on the oscillator E25b, thus similarly synchronizing the oscillator with the central clock device E23. Element E43 symbolically indicates, for example, the activation of the power-saving state EZS in the downlink direction from the gPTP bridging device E25 to the sensor devices E26 and E27.
[0086] Element E44 symbolically represents the synchronization of the clock device E25a of the gPTP bridging device E25 with the central clock device E23 (e.g., resynchronization) when using the PROT-ZS protocol, such as gPTP, for example, at least similar to element E41.
[0087] Element E45 symbolically represents the coupling, e.g., "locking," or e.g., gradual adaptation, of the oscillator E25b used to provide the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery to the clock device E25a of the gPTP bridge device E25, at least similar to element E42. Element E46 symbolically represents the repetitive, e.g., periodic synchronization or maintenance of synchronization between the clock device E25a of the gPTP bridge device E25 and the central clock device E23.
[0088] Figure 15 A simplified block diagram according to an exemplary embodiment is schematically shown. It illustrates a sensor device, for example, for use with... Figure 2 An exemplary configuration E50 of at least one sensor device 20. The configuration has at least one of the following elements: a) a sensor E51, such as an image sensor or a video sensor, and / or b) an optional coupling element, such as a bridge E52, and / or c) an optional digital interface E53, and / or d) an optional means for digital signal processing E54, and / or e) a means for clock recovery, for example, based on a signal SIG-CR for clock recovery obtained via a data connection DV, such as from a control device, such as a zone control device 10, and / or f) an optional analog circuit E57, and / or g) an optional analog-to-digital converter E58.
[0089] Element E56 symbolically represents the local clock device of sensor device E50, which can, for example, be synchronized at least temporarily with the clock device 10-CLK of control device 10 using the PROT-ZS protocol.
[0090] In another exemplary embodiment, the local clock device E56 of the sensor device E50 may be synchronized with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 based on the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery, which is also provided by the control device 10, for example, for transmitting data symbols to the sensor device E50 via the data connection DV.
[0091] In another exemplary embodiment, the local clock device E56 of the sensor device E50 can therefore be at least temporarily, for example, within the time range ZB-1, ZB-3 ( Figure 3 In the case of using the PROT-ZS protocol, the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10 is synchronized. In another exemplary embodiment, the local clock device E56 of the sensor device E50 can therefore be synchronized at least temporarily, for example, within the time range ZB-2 ( Figure 3 In the case of using the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery, it is synchronized with the clock device 10-CLK of the control device 10.
[0092] In another exemplary implementation, for implementing a local clock device E56 in sensor device E50, the following options are possible: a) within the PHY interface function block (Schnittstellenbaustein), and / or b) within a bridge or comparable device outside the PHY interface function block.
[0093] The following describes additional exemplary aspects and implementations, which may be combined with at least one of the aspects described above, either individually or in any combination, in the case of other exemplary implementations.
[0094] In another exemplary implementation, for example, all components in systems 1000, 1000a, ... can be initially synchronized using the PROT-ZS protocol, and then, for example, when the initial synchronization is completed, at least for at least one sensor device 20 ( Figure 2 The downlink of the sensor device 20 employs an energy-saving state (EZS) and can use the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery to keep the sensor device 20 in synchronization, i.e., continue to synchronize with the control device 10, for example. At least some components can be periodically resynchronized, for example, using the PROT-ZS protocol.
[0095] In other exemplary embodiments, such as sensor device 20, E50 ( Figure 15 The receiver circuit of the device has, for example, a clock recovery device E55, which may be arranged in the PHY function block, and the clock recovery device is configured to determine, for example reconstruct the clock signal or clock information based on the received signal SIG-CR.
[0096] In another exemplary implementation, clock recovery can be used to keep two connection partners of a data connection synchronized, such that the connection partners reference a common symbol clock frequency (e.g., "Symbol Clock"), and can, for example, exchange (send and / or receive) symbols, such as data symbols.
[0097] For example, one of the connection partners of a data connection can be configured as a so-called "master device," which, for example, is based on a local oscillator E25b ( Figure 12 The symbol clock frequency is provided. Another connection partner of the data connection is configured, for example, as a so-called "slave device," and reconstructs the symbol clock frequency to be used by the slave device for receiving the clock frequency based on the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery received from the master device using a means for clock recovery E55.
[0098] In another exemplary implementation, it may be specified that multiple components of communication systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, and 1000c use the same clock frequency, for example, 125 MHz, for the signal SIG-CR used for clock recovery.
[0099] In another exemplary embodiment, the PHY device, such as the PHY device of the sensor device 20, is configured as a slave device in the above sense, for processing the symbol clock frequency, and is configured to synchronize or keep the local clock device 20-CLK of the sensor device 20 synchronized based on the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery or based on the recovered symbol clock.
[0100] In another exemplary embodiment, the PHY device, such as the PHY device of the control device 10, is configured as a master device in the sense described above, for processing the symbol clock frequency, and is configured to adapt to, for example, the signal SIG-CR for clock recovery based on the local clock device 10-CLK.
[0101] In another exemplary implementation, for example in a vehicle 1 ( Figure 9The communication systems 1000, 1000a, 100b, and 100c use the principles of the implementation, for example, to connect the sensor module or sensor device 20 to the Internet, or to create, for example, a data connection from the sensor module or sensor device 20 to the control device 10 or the vehicle computer 30, and to enable efficient synchronization.
[0102] In other exemplary embodiments, it is advantageous to use sensor devices 20 with limited power loss (e.g., to avoid excessive self-heating) and / or sensor devices 20 with asymmetric characteristics of data flow (e.g., relatively high data volume for transmitting data, such as image or video data, and / or other data associated with a relatively large amount of information, such as to control device 10, and in the case of a relatively small amount of data, for receiving data, such as control data, from control device 10).
[0103] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of the embodiments may be used for automotive BASE-T1 Ethernet systems, but in other exemplary embodiments, it is not limited to automotive single-pair communication technology.
[0104] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of the embodiment can be used for a camera sensor (e.g., sensor device 20) having an uplink rate (e.g., from the camera of the camera sensor to another control device) much higher than the downlink rate (from the control device to the camera sensor). For example, the local control device of the camera sensor, such as the camera ECU, transmits the detected camera sensor data to the target via the uplink and receives image-specific information via the downlink, for example. In another exemplary embodiment, in this configuration, the information transmitted via the downlink is transmitted intermittently, where the corresponding message has only a few bits, for example. In this configuration, the channel is utilized in an asymmetric manner, for example, and an EEE-based implementation of the power-saving state EZS is advantageously used for power saving. In another exemplary embodiment, the participating components can be efficiently synchronized using the principles of the embodiment, such that the time synchronization of the camera module with other components is guaranteed, for example, even during phase ZB-2 of the power-saving state EZS.
[0105] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of the embodiment can be used, for example, for radar sensors in the automotive field, where the radar sensor may generate data bursts, for example, because the antenna front end is sequentially used to transmit radar signals and to receive signals reflected, for example, from objects in the environment. Data bursts may also result in asymmetric characteristics of data traffic, allowing, for example, the use of EEE (Energy Efficiency) to save energy. In other exemplary embodiments, when using the principles of the embodiment, time synchronization of the radar sensor with other components can be guaranteed even during the Energy Saving State (EZS) phase, for example, by using the SIG-CR signal for clock recovery during the EZS phase for synchronization or to maintain synchronization. Furthermore, in some example cases, such as for coherent synchronization of multiple RDAR sensors, the accuracy of time synchronization is important, and this accuracy can be improved, for example, by using the SIG-CR signal, compared to simply using the PROT-SZ protocol.
[0106] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for vehicle 1 ( Figure 9 In a communication system, some components frequently send information (e.g., "broadcast") to multiple, such as all other, components, while receiving relatively little data. For example, an EEE (Electronic Energy Efficiency) system could be used to save energy.
[0107] In other exemplary embodiments, the principles of the embodiments can be used, for example, to detect (and optionally record) data, such as for performing data logging, where data streams of sensor data from, for example, a prototype vehicle are transmitted and stored. Energy saving is also made possible, for example, by using EEE, even during energy-saving phases, such as in EEE LPI, by utilizing simultaneous time synchronization, for example, by using a signal SIG-CR for clock recovery.
[0108] In another exemplary embodiment, the principles of the embodiment may be used, for example, for time synchronization of components 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 where a large amount of collected and accurate sensor data is not required, in another exemplary embodiment, the communication characteristics may, for example (e.g., in the case of EEE), switch to an energy-efficient mode, in which, in another exemplary embodiment, 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 been parked or stopped at a traffic light, in another exemplary embodiment, there may be no need for detecting, for example, remote radar data. Therefore, in another exemplary embodiment, the communication connection may enter a sleep or EEE state, where, in another exemplary embodiment, the synchronized time base may be maintained for a specific time, for example, by using a SIG-CR signal for clock recovery, using the principles of the embodiment. In another exemplary embodiment, this function maintains (time) synchronization, and the vehicle may, for example, switch back to a driving state more quickly when the driver only wants to stop for a short time.
[0109] Other exemplary embodiments, Figure 16 The invention relates 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 embodiments, for at least one of the following elements: a) synchronizing the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of the control device; b) synchronizing the clock device of the at least one sensor device with the clock device of, for example, a central control device; c) distributing time information in the system or, for example, among more than two components in the system; d) keeping the system or two or more components of the system synchronized, for example, using at least two different mechanisms; e) using signals for clock recovery for synchronization, at least temporarily; f) maintaining the synchronization of the system or its components, for example, even though at least some data connections of the system are at least temporarily placed in a power-saving state or the power-saving state.
Claims
1. A method for processing data associated with time information, such as a computer-implemented method, for example for a control device (10) and / or for at least one sensor device (20), the control device being connectable to and / or connected to at least one sensor device (20) via a first data connection (DV-1), wherein the method comprises: using a time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) (100) in a first time range (ZB-1) to synchronize (SYNC-20-10) the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10). In a second time range (ZB-2) different from the first time range (ZB-1), the (102) signal for clock recovery (SIG-CR) is used for at least one of the following elements: a) maintaining (SYNC-20-10-MAINT) the synchronization of the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10), and / or b) synchronizing (SYNC-20-10) the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10), for example, resynchronizing (RESYNC-20-10).
2. The method of claim 1, 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, i.e., IEEE 1588, b) General Precision Time Protocol gPTP, i.e., IEEE 802.1AS, c) Synchronous Ethernet SyncE, d) "White Rabbit".
3. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal for clock recovery (SIG-CR) is associated with layer 1 of the ISO / OSI layer model.
4. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: for example, in at least one third time range (ZB-3), using (110), for example repeatedly, for example periodically, the protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS) described in (110a) for synchronizing (SYNC-20-10) or resynchronizing the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10), wherein, for example, the at least one third time range (ZB-3) is different from the first time range (ZB-1) and / or different from the second time range (ZB-2).
5. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the first data connection (DV-1) is configured as an Ethernet data connection, such as an automotive Ethernet data connection, based on or according to at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3bv, g) IEEE 802.cz.
6. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: at least in the second time range (ZB-2), for example at least for the data transmission direction associated with the first data connection (DV-1) toward the at least one sensor device (20), activating (120) energy-saving state (ESZ) for example according to and / or based on at least the following criteria: high-efficiency Ethernet, i.e. IEEE 802.3az.
7. The method according to claim 6, wherein during the energy-saving state (ESZ), by means of the signal for clock recovery (SIG-CR), the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) is maintained (122a) and / or updated (122b) to be synchronized (SYNCH-20-10) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10).
8. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: using the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (130) for synchronizing the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) with at least one other unit (30), such as with the clock device (30-CLK) of a central control device, such as a vehicle computer, for example (SYNC-10-30), wherein, for example, using the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (130) for synchronizing the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) with the at least one other unit (30), for example, SYNC-10-30, has at least one of the following elements: a) during the first time range (ZB-1), using the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (130a) for synchronizing the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) with at least one other unit (30) for synchronizing the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) with the at least one other unit (30) for example (SYNC-10-30) The clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) is synchronized with the at least one additional unit (30) (SYNC-10-30), and / or b) during the second time range (ZB-2), the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (130b) is used to synchronize the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) with the at least one additional unit (30) (SYNC-10-30), and / or c) during at least one third time range (ZB-3) or the at least one third time range (ZB-3), the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (130c) is used to synchronize the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10) with the at least one additional unit (30) (SYNC-10-30).
9. The method according to claim 8, comprising, for example, optionally A) using the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (132b), for example between the central control device (30) and the at least one sensor device (20), and / or B) using the time synchronization protocol (PROT-ZS) of (132c), for example between the central control device (30) and the control device (10), and using the clock recovery signal (SIG-CR) of (132d), synchronizing (132) the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (30-CLK) of the central control device (30), for example, resynchronizing (132a).
10. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following elements: a) receiving (140) the message (N-1) of the protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS) from, for example, another unit (30) or the other unit (30); b) sending (142) the message (N-2) of the protocol for time synchronization (PROT-ZS) to the at least one sensor device (20); c) sending (144) the signal (SIG-CR) of clock recovery to the at least one sensor device (20); d) receiving the signal (N-1) of clock recovery through the at least one sensor device (20). The signal for clock recovery (SIG-CR) is used for at least one of the following elements: d1) maintaining (SYNC-20-10-MAINT) the synchronization of the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10); and / or d2) synchronizing (SYNC-20-10) the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10), for example, resynchronizing (RESYNC-20-10).
11. An apparatus (200) for carrying out the method according to at least one of the preceding claims.
12. A control device (10) that is capable of being connected to and / or connected to at least one sensor device (20) via, for example, via a first data connection (DV-1), having the device (200) according to claim 11.
13. A sensor device (20), for example capable of being connected to a control device (10), for example to the control device (10) according to claim 12 via a first data connection (DV-1) or the first data connection (DV-1), having the device (200) according to claim 11.
14. A system (1000) having at least one device (200) according to claim 11 and / or at least one control device (10) according to claim 12 and / or at least one sensor device (20) according to claim 13.
15. A vehicle, such as a motor vehicle (1), having at least one device (200) according to claim 11 and / or at least one control device (10) according to claim 12 and / or at least one sensor device (20) according to claim 13 and / or at least one system (1000) according to claim 14.
16. 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 10.
17. 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 10.
18. A data carrier signal (DCS) that transmits and / or characterizes the computer program (PRG) according to claim 17.
19. The use of a method according to at least one of claims 1 to 10 and / or an apparatus (200) according to claim 11 and / or a control device (10) according to claim 12 and / or a sensor device (20) according to claim 13 and / or a system (1000) according to claim 14 and / or a vehicle (1) according to claim 15 and / or a computer-readable storage medium (SM) according to claim 16 and / or a computer program (PRG) according to claim 17 and / or a data carrier signal (DCS) according to claim 18, for at least one of the following elements: a) synchronizing (301) the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10); b) synchronizing (301) the clock device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with the clock device (10-CLK) of the control device (10). (c) Synchronize (30-CLK) with, for example, the clock device (30-CLK) of the central control device (30); (d) Distribute (303) time information in the system (1000) or said system (1000) for example among more than two components (10, 20, 30); (e) Keep two or more components (10, 20, 30) of the system (1000) or said system (1000) synchronized, for example using at least two different mechanisms; (f) Use (306) the signal (SIG-CR) for clock recovery (30-CLK) for synchronization, for example, even though at least some data connections (DV-1) of said system (1000) are at least temporarily placed in power saving state (ESZ) or said power saving state (ESZ).