Method and device for processing data associated with at least one interface unit

Abstract

A method, e.g. a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface unit, the interface unit being configured to supply at least one signal for an energy saving mode, the method involving: combining the at least one signal for the energy saving mode with first information characterizing at least one of the following: a) part of a message of a time synchronization protocol, b) control information, e.g. time-critical control information, c) signaling, e.g. of time-critical and / or safety-critical conditions; transmitting the at least one signal for the energy saving mode along with the first information.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] Method and apparatus for processing data associated with at least one interface device

[0004] State of the art

[0005] The disclosure relates to a method for processing data associated with at least one interface device.

[0006] The disclosure further relates to an apparatus for processing data associated with at least one interface device.

[0007] Disclosure of the invention

[0008] Exemplary embodiments relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface device, wherein the interface device is designed to provide at least one signal for a power-saving state, the method comprising: combining the at least one signal for the power-saving state with first information that characterizes at least one of the following elements: a) a part of a message of a protocol for time synchronization, b) control information, for example time-critical control information, c) signaling, for example of time-critical and / or safety-critical states, transmitting the at least one signal for the power-saving state together with the first information. In further exemplary embodiments, information of the protocol for time synchronization, for examplebe transmitted in such operating phases of the interface device in which no regular transmission of, for example, user data is planned, e.g. to another interface device.

[0009] For example, in further exemplary embodiments, the first information may characterize, e.g., general, e.g., time-critical, information, e.g., time-critical control information and / or e.g., time-critical control information.

[0010] For example, in further exemplary embodiments, the first information may characterize a portion of a time synchronization protocol message.

[0011] For example, in further exemplary embodiments, the first information may characterize information other than the at least part of a time synchronization protocol message, e.g., no time synchronization protocol information, e.g., other control information, e.g., according to one or more other protocols and / or protocol types.

[0012] In further exemplary embodiments, the interface device is designed as an Ethernet interface device, for example an automotive Ethernet interface device, for example 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.

[0013] In further exemplary embodiments, the energy saving state is configured according to and / or based on at least the following standard: Energy Efficient Ethernet, IEEE 802.3az.

[0014] In further exemplary embodiments, the time synchronization protocol is designed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: a) Precision Time Protocol, PTP, IEEE1588, b) generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP, IEEE 802.1 AS.

[0015] In further exemplary embodiments, combining the at least one signal for the energy saving state with the first information comprises at least one of the following elements: a) integrating, for example embedding, the first information into the at least one signal for the energy saving state, b) inserting the first information before, for example directly before, the at least one signal for the energy saving state, c) appending the first information after, for example directly after, the at least one signal for the energy saving state, d) providing the first information for transmission within a time range in which the at least one signal for the energy saving state is transmittable.

[0016] In further exemplary embodiments, the at least one signal for the energy saving state is a refresh signal according to one or the Energy Efficient Ethernet standard, wherein the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) integrating, for example embedding, the first information in an infofield information element of the refresh signal, b) integrating, for example embedding, the first information in a training sequence of the refresh signal, c) inserting the first information before, for example directly before, the refresh signal, d) appending the first information after, for example directly after, the refresh signal.

[0017] In further exemplary embodiments, the method comprises: distributing the message of the time synchronization protocol to the at least one signal for the energy saving state, for example distributing the message of the time synchronization protocol to a plurality of signals for the energy saving state, transmitting the at least one signal for the energy saving state, for example transmitting the plurality of signals for the energy saving state.

[0018] In further exemplary embodiments, the first information comprises or characterizes such information of the time synchronization protocol that is sensitive to latency, for example information associated with a synchronization message of the time synchronization protocol, for example with a sync message of the generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP. In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the first information comprises at least one of the following elements: a) the entire message of the time synchronization protocol, b) at least a part of the message of the time synchronization protocol that characterizes trigger information, and, optionally, reference information, which e.g.characterize a relationship of the trigger information to header information associated with the trigger information, c) at least one part of the message of the time synchronization protocol that characterizes timestamp information, for example of the type originTimestamp according to generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP, wherein, for example, the at least one part characterizes at least one part of the timestamp information, d) security information.

[0019] In further exemplary embodiments, the method comprises: dividing the time synchronization protocol message into a plurality of parts, assigning at least one of the plurality of parts to the at least one energy saving state signal.

[0020] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the splitting comprises at least one of the following elements: a) separating header information of the message from trigger information of the message, b) separating header information of the message from timestamp information of the message, c) reducing, for example shortening, timestamp information or the timestamp information of the message.

[0021] In further exemplary embodiments, the method comprises: providing an information element comprising twelve octets, wherein at least some of the octets comprise four to ten timestamp information of the message of the protocol for time synchronization, for example shortened timestamp information, wherein, for example, the first three octets comprise a prefix, for example values ​​of hexadecimal "BB", "A7", "00", respectively, wherein, for example, the last two octets comprise a checksum.

[0022] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the

[0023] Method comprising: providing an information element comprising twelve octets, wherein at least some of the octets comprise four to ten reference information items which, for example, characterize a relationship of trigger information to header information associated with the trigger information, for example a sequence number, wherein, for example, the first three octets comprise a prefix, for example, values ​​of hexadecimal "BB", "A7", "00", respectively, wherein, for example, the last two octets comprise a checksum.

[0024] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that a) the combining is carried out at least temporarily and / or at least partially in the layer

[0025] 1 of the ISO / OSI reference model, and / or wherein b) the combining is carried out at least temporarily and / or at least partially in the layer

[0026] 2 of the ISO / OSI reference model.

[0027] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface device, wherein the interface device is designed to receive at least one signal for an energy-saving state, the method comprising: receiving the at least one signal for the energy-saving state, extracting first information that characterizes at least one of the following elements: a) a part of a message of a protocol for time synchronization, b) control information, for example time-critical control information (e.g. for settings of a camera device, e.g. camera settings), c) signaling, for example of time-critical and / or safety-critical states, from the received at least one signal for the energy-saving state.

[0028] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a device for carrying out the method according to the embodiments, wherein, for example, the device is designed to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14 and to carry out the method according to claim 15, wherein, for example, the device is designed to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, for example, but not to carry out the method according to claim 15, wherein, for example, the device is designed to carry out the method according to claim 15, for example, but not to carry out the

[0029] Method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15.

[0030] Further exemplary embodiments relate to an interface device having at least one device according to the embodiments.

[0031] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a communication system comprising at least one device according to the embodiments and / or at least one interface device according to the embodiments.

[0032] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a vehicle, for example a motor vehicle, comprising at least one device according to the embodiments and / or at least one interface device according to the embodiments and / or at least one communication system according to the embodiments.

[0033] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the embodiments.

[0034] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a computer program comprising instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the embodiments.

[0035] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a data carrier signal that transmits and / or characterizes the computer program according to the embodiments.

[0036] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a use of the method according to the embodiments and / or the device according to the embodiments and / or the interface device according to the embodiments and / or the communication system according to the embodiments and / or the vehicle according to the embodiments and / or the computer-readable storage medium according to the embodiments and / or the computer program according to the embodiments and / or the data carrier signal according to the embodiments for at least one of the following elements: a) combining, for example combined transmission, the at least one signal for the energy-saving state with the first information that characterizes at least part of the message of the time synchronization protocol, b) reducing latency, c) using time ranges of the energy-saving state to transmit information of the time synchronization protocol,d) Enabling time synchronization in Energy Efficient Ethernet, EEE,-based communication systems, e) Distributing time information in communication systems, for example in vehicle communication systems.

[0037] Further features, possible applications, and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, which are illustrated in the figures of the drawing. All described or illustrated features, individually or in any combination, constitute the subject matter of the invention, regardless of their summary in the claims or their references, as well as regardless of their wording or representation in the description or in the drawing.

[0038] The drawing shows:

[0039] Fig. 1 schematically shows a simplified flow diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0040] Fig. 2 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0041] Fig. 3 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments, Fig. 4 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0042] Fig. 5 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0043] Fig. 6 schematically shows a simplified timing diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0044] Fig. 7 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0045] Fig. 8 schematically shows a simplified flow diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0046] Fig. 9 schematically shows a simplified flow diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0047] Fig. 10 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0048] Fig. 11 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0049] Fig. 12 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0050] Fig. 13 schematically shows a simplified flow diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0051] Fig. 14 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0052] Fig. 15 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments, Fig. 16 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0053] Fig. 17 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0054] Fig. 18 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0055] Fig. 19 schematically shows a simplified signaling diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0056] Fig. 20 schematically shows a simplified signaling diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0057] Fig. 21 schematically shows data frames according to exemplary embodiments,

[0058] Fig. 22 schematically illustrates aspects of uses according to exemplary embodiments.

[0059] Exemplary embodiments, Fig. 1 , 2, relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface device 10 (Fig. 2), wherein the interface device 10 is designed to provide at least one signal SIG-ES for an energy saving state 100 (Fig. 1), the method comprising: combining 102 the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state with first information 1-1 that characterizes at least one of the following elements: a) a part of a message ZS-N (Fig. 3) of a protocol for time synchronization (e.g.in a communication system 1000 having the interface devices 10, 20), b) control information, for example, time-critical control information, c) signaling, for example, of time-critical and / or safety-critical states, transmitting 104 the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy-saving state together with the first information 1-1, for example, via a data connection DV (e.g., wired). In further exemplary embodiments, information of the protocol for time synchronization (and / or the, for example, time-critical control information and / or the signaling) can be transmitted in this way, for example, in those operating phases of the interface device 10 in which no regular transmission, e.g., of user data, is provided, e.g., to the other interface device 20.

[0060] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 2, the interface device 10 is designed as an Ethernet interface device, for example an automotive Ethernet interface device, for example 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.

[0061] For example, the further interface device 20 is also designed as an Ethernet interface device and the data connection DV is designed as an Ethernet data connection.

[0062] In further exemplary embodiments, the energy saving state is configured according to and / or based on at least the following standard: Energy Efficient Ethernet, IEEE 802.3az.

[0063] In further exemplary embodiments, Ethernet, for example, provides a connection (e.g., a "link") at Layer 1 between two PHY devices (not shown, devices for communication via a PHY layer, i.e., Layer 1 according to the ISO / OSI standard model) with full-time, full-duplex capabilities. In some embodiments, this can result in a link being loaded with "idle" data when no actual payload (useful data) is being exchanged. A disadvantage of this in some exemplary embodiments can be a comparatively high energy consumption.

[0064] Therefore, in further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the energy saving state already mentioned above, e.g. according to Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), IEEE 802.3az, is used. In further exemplary embodiments, Energy Efficient Ethernet as a technology for reducing power consumption enables communication in at least one of the two communication directions between two Ethernet PHYs to be switched off at least temporarily, e.g. for periods (e.g. "passive phase") in which no communication (e.g. for transmitting user data) is planned. Thus, in further exemplary embodiments that can use Energy Efficient Ethernet for the energy saving state, data exchange of user data is possible during an "active" phase of the link, and power consumption is correspondingly comparatively high.

[0065] In further exemplary embodiments, it is also possible not to switch off a PHY component completely, but to maintain parts of a signal processing, for example, and to temporarily switch off only some, for example essential, parts, such as a transmitting part or a receiving part, or to put them into a special operating mode.

[0066] During so-called "Low Power Idle" phases (LPI) according to Energy Efficient Ethernet, which characterize the aforementioned energy-saving state, for example, parts of a signal processing (not shown) of the interface devices 10, 20 (Fig. 2) can be switched off in further exemplary embodiments, since the connection between the interface devices is maintained, for example, by a comparatively small number of update signals, whereby the current consumption or power consumption during the LPI phases is correspondingly lower. With conventional approaches, however, no user data can be exchanged during LPI phases. In contrast, the principle according to the embodiments advantageously enables the transmission of the first information 1-1, for example, even during the LPI phases of Energy Efficient Ethernet.

[0067] In further exemplary embodiments, the time synchronization protocol is designed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: a) Precision Time Protocol, PTP, IEEE1588, b) generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP, IEEE 802.1 AS.

[0068] For example, data that characterizes information of the time synchronization protocol can be regarded as user data within the meaning of the embodiments, and in further exemplary embodiments, such data that characterizes information of the time synchronization protocol, e.g. in the form of the first information 1-1, can also be transmitted during the LPI phases of the Energy Efficient Ethernet. In further exemplary embodiments, Fig.1 , the combining 102 of the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state with the first information 1-1 comprises at least one of the following elements: a) integrating 102a, for example embedding, the first information 1-1 into the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state, b) inserting 102b the first information 1-1 before, for example directly before, the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state, c) appending 102c the first information 1-1 behind, for example directly behind, the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state, d) providing 102d the first information 1-1 for transmission within a time range T2 (see Fig. 6), in which the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state is transmittable.

[0069] Fig. 3 schematically shows the message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol, e.g., gPTP, which can have multiple parts ZS-N-1a, ZS-N-1b, ..., and an assignment of the multiple parts ZS-N-1a, ZS-N-1b, ... to multiple signals SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, ... for the energy-saving state. In other words, in further exemplary embodiments, information of the message ZS-N can be divided into one or more signals SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, ... for the energy-saving state and, for example, one or more signals SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, ... can be combined with these, e.g., in the sense of block 102 according to Fig. 1, e.g., for a respective joint transmission of a respective part of the message ZS-N with a respective signal SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, ...

[0070] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 4, 5, the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state is a refresh signal SIG-REFRESH according to one or the Energy Efficient Ethernet standard, wherein the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) integrating 110 (Fig. 4), for example embedding, the first information 1-1 into an infofield information element IE-INFOFIELD (Fig. 5) of the refresh signal, see arrow a1 of Fig. 5, b) integrating 112 (Fig. 4), for example embedding, the first information 1-1 into a training sequence TRAIN-SEQ of the refresh signal, see arrow a2, c) inserting 114 the first information 1-1 before, for example directly before, the refresh signal, see arrow a4, d) appending 116 the first information 1-1 after, for example directly after, the Refresh signal, see arrow a3.

[0071] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 4, a non-vanishing first waiting time between the refresh signal and the first information 1-1 to be inserted can also be provided during the insertion 114.

[0072] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 4, a non-vanishing second waiting time between the refresh signal and the first information 1-1 to be appended can also be provided during the appending 116.

[0073] Fig. 6 schematically shows a timing diagram according to exemplary embodiments. For example, in first time ranges T1, no SIG-ES signal for the energy-saving state is transmitted, and in at least a second time range T2, the SIG-ES signal for the energy-saving state is transmitted. By way of example, in further exemplary embodiments, the first time ranges T1 symbolize time ranges of the type lpi_quiet_time according to EEE, and by way of example, the second time range T2 symbolizes a time range of the type lpi_refresh_time according to EEE, and by way of example, the SIG-ES signal symbolizes a refresh signal SIG-REFRESH according to EEE.

[0074] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 7, it is provided that the first information 1-1 comprises at least one of the following elements: a) the entire message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol, e.g. a gPTP message, b) at least a part ZS-N-TRIG of the message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol, which characterizes trigger information INF-TRIG, and, optionally, reference information INF-REF, which e.g. defines a reference of the trigger information INF-TRIG to header information associated with the trigger information INF-TRIG, e.g.of the message ZS-N, c) at least one part ZS-N-TIM of the message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol, which characterizes time stamp information INF-TS, for example of the type originTimestamp according to the generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP, wherein, for example, the at least one part ZS-N-TIM characterizes at least one part INF-TS' of the time stamp information, d) security information INF-SEC. In further exemplary embodiments (not shown), it is provided that the first information characterizes at least one of the following elements: b) control information, for example time-critical control information, c) signaling, for example of time-critical and / or security-critical states.

[0075] In other words, in exemplary embodiments, the first information 1-1 can characterize, for example, the said part of a message ZS-N of a protocol for time synchronization.

[0076] In other words, in exemplary embodiments, the first information 1-1 may characterize, for example, the control information, for example time-critical control information.

[0077] In other words, in exemplary embodiments, the first information 1-1 can characterize, for example, the signaling of time-critical and / or safety-critical states.

[0078] In other words, in exemplary embodiments, the first information 1-1 can characterize two or more of the elements mentioned above as examples ((part of a) message ZS-N of a protocol for time synchronization, control information, signaling).

[0079] In further exemplary embodiments, the first information 1-1 includes or characterizes information of the time synchronization protocol that is sensitive to a latency or a variance in the latency, for example, information associated with a synchronization message of the time synchronization protocol, for example, with a sync message of the generalized Precision Time Protocol (gPTP). For example, in further exemplary embodiments, the first information 1-1 characterizes time-critical information, e.g., of a time synchronization protocol and / or control information or signaling.

[0080] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 8, the method comprises: distributing 120 the message ZS-N of the protocol for time synchronization (e.g. gPTP message) to the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state, for example distributing 120a the message ZS-N of the protocol for time synchronization to a plurality of signals SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, SIG-ES-3, ... for the energy saving state, transmitting 122 the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state, for example transmitting 122a the plurality of signals SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, SIG-ES-3, ... for the energy saving state.

[0081] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 9, it is provided that the method comprises: dividing 130 the message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol into a plurality of parts ZS-N-1 a, ZS-N-1 b, ..., assigning 132 at least one of the plurality of parts to the at least one signal SIG-ES, SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, SIG-ES-3 for the energy saving state.

[0082] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 9, it is provided that the splitting 130 comprises at least one of the following elements: a) separating 130a header information of the message ZS-N from trigger information of the message, b) separating 130b header information of the message ZS-N from timestamp information of the message, c) reducing 130c, for example shortening, timestamp information or the timestamp information of the message ZS-N. As a result, in further exemplary embodiments, parts of the message ZS-N can be provided which, for example, in the form of the first information 1-1, can be combined with the signal SIG-ES, for example can be embedded in the signal SIG-ES.

[0083] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 10, Fig. 11 , it is provided that the method comprises: providing 140 an information element IE-1 comprising twelve octets o1, o2, o3, o4, o5, o6, o7, o8, o9, o10, o11, o12, wherein at least some of the octets have four o4 to ten o10 timestamp information INF-TS of the message ZS-N (Fig. 3) of the protocol for time synchronization, for example shortened timestamp information, wherein, for example, the first three octets o1, o2, o3 have a prefix PRE, for example values ​​of hexadecimal "BB", "A7", "00", i.e. 0xBB, 0xA7, 0x00, wherein, for example, the last two octets o11, o12 have a checksum PS. In further exemplary embodiments, Fig.10, 12, it is provided that the method comprises: providing 142 an information element IE-2 comprising twelve octets o1, o12, wherein at least some of the octets comprise four o4 to ten o10 reference information INF-REF, which, for example, characterize a relationship of trigger information to header information associated with the trigger information, for example a sequence number, wherein, for example, the first three octets comprise a prefix PRE, for example, values ​​of hexadecimal "BB", "A7", "00" in each case, wherein, for example, the last two octets comprise a checksum PS.

[0084] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 12, the information element IE-2 enables a trigger function which, in further exemplary embodiments, can be associated with a gPTP header ("header data"), wherein the gPTP header is sent, for example, before entering an EEE LPI state, and wherein, for example, a gPTP Follow_Up message with a timestamp is sent after leaving the EEE LPI state.

[0085] In other words, further exemplary embodiments provide the following sequence: a) Sending at least one gPTP header, e.g. before entering an EEE LPI state, b) Entering the EEE LPI state, c) Sending at least one information element IE-2 according to Fig. 12 with the reference information, e.g. as a trigger, which can be assigned to the gPTP header, in the EEE LPI state, d) Leaving the EEE LPI state, e) Sending, after leaving the EEE LPI state, a gPTP Follow_Up message with a timestamp.

[0086] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 1 , it is provided that a) the combining 102 is carried out at least temporarily and / or at least partially in layer 1, "PHY", of the ISO / OSI reference model, for example by a PHY device (not shown), and / or that b) the combining 102 is carried out at least temporarily and / or at least partially in layer 2, "MAC", of the ISO / OSI reference model, for example by a MAC device (not shown).

[0087] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 13, relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface device 10, 20 (Fig. 2), wherein the interface device 10, 20 is designed to receive at least one signal SIG-ES for an energy-saving state, the method comprising: receiving 180 the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy-saving state, extracting 182 first information 1-1 that characterizes at least one of the following elements: a) a part of a message ZS-N of a protocol for time synchronization, b) control information, for example time-critical control information, c) signaling, for example of time-critical and / or safety-critical states, from the received at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy-saving state. In this way, in further exemplary embodiments, for exampleinformation 1-1 (and / or control information and / or signaling) associated with the time synchronization protocol, e.g. gPTP, is received, for example, even during a power-saving state.

[0088] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 14, relate to a device 200, 200a, 200b for carrying out the method according to the embodiments.

[0089] For example, the device 200, Fig. 14, is designed to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14 and to carry out the method according to claim 15, that is to say, for example, for transmitting 104 (Fig. 1) and receiving 180 (Fig. 13) the first information.

[0090] For example, the device 200a is designed to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, but for example not to carry out the method according to claim 15, that is to say, for example, for transmitting 104, but not for receiving 180.

[0091] For example, the device 200b is designed to carry out the method according to claim 15, i.e., for receiving 180, but for example not to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15, i.e., for example, transmitting 104. In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 14, it is provided that the device 200, 200a, 200b comprises: a computing device ("computer") 202 having at least one computing core 202a, a memory device 204 assigned to the computing device 202 for at least temporarily storing at least one of the following elements: a) data DAT (e.g., data characterizing the first information 1-1 and / or the signal SIG-ES), b) computer program PRG, for example for carrying out the method according to the embodiments.

[0092] In further exemplary embodiments, the memory device 204 comprises a volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM)) 204a, and / or a non-volatile (NVM) memory (e.g., flash EEPROM) 204b, or a combination thereof or with other memory types not explicitly mentioned.

[0093] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a computer-readable storage medium SM, comprising instructions PRG which, when executed by a computer 202, cause the computer to carry out the method according to the embodiments.

[0094] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a computer program PRG comprising instructions which, when the program PRG is executed by a computer 202, cause the computer 202 to carry out the method according to the embodiments.

[0095] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a data carrier signal DCS, which characterizes and / or transmits the computer program PRG according to the embodiments. The data carrier signal DCS can be received, for example, via an optional data interface 206 of the device 200, 200a, 200b, wherein the optional data interface 206 can be configured, for example, for data exchange (sending and / or receiving) via the data connection DV (Fig. 2).

[0096] In further exemplary embodiments, the configuration according to Fig. 14 can also be designed to implement the functionality of a MAC device and / or a PHY device. In further exemplary embodiments, the functionality of the device 200, 200a, 200b can also be implemented using hardware, e.g., in the form of a pure hardware circuit.

[0097] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 2, relate to an interface device 10, 20 with at least one device 200, 200a, 200b according to the embodiments. Thus, in further exemplary embodiments, for example, an Ethernet interface device 10, 20 can be provided which can both execute energy-saving functions, e.g., according to EEE, and transmit information associated with user data, e.g., for a time synchronization protocol, e.g., gPTP, e.g., in the form of the first information 1-1, e.g., in time ranges T2 (Fig. 6), in which an energy-saving state, e.g., LPI according to EEE, exists.

[0098] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 2, relate to a communication system 1000 comprising at least one device 200, 200a, 200b according to the embodiments and / or at least one interface device 10, 20 according to the embodiments.

[0099] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 15, relate to a vehicle 1, for example a motor vehicle, comprising at least one device 200, 200a, 200b (Fig. 14) according to the embodiments and / or at least one interface device 10, 20 (Fig. 2) according to the embodiments and / or at least one communication system 1000, 1000a (Fig. 14) according to the embodiments.

[0100] Fig. 16 schematically shows a simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000a according to exemplary embodiments. Element E10 symbolizes, for example, a gateway, e.g., with a modem or connectivity ("connection") unit (e.g., for providing connectivity between vehicles and / or a network such as the Internet). Elements E11a, E11b, E11c symbolize, for example, central control units (e.g., "central ECU(s)"). Elements E12a, E12b, E12c, E12d symbolize, for example, sensor devices and / or actuators or other components associated with a comparatively high data rate, which, for example, at least temporarily send and / or receive data at a high data rate (e.g., components for providing and / or processing image data or video data, e.g., radar signal processing, LIDAR, etc., e.g., a display for displaying information).The elements E13a, E13b, E13c, and E13d symbolize control units, e.g., zone control units (e.g., "zonal ECU(s)"). The elements collectively designated by the reference symbol E14 symbolize sensors and / or actuators.

[0101] The principle according to the embodiments can be advantageously used in one or more components of the communication system 1000a, for example in the area of ​​the elements E11a, E11b, E11c, E12a, .., E12d, whereby in further exemplary embodiments an energy-efficient and at the same time high-performance data communication is ensured, and for example also a reliable, low-latency distribution of information of a protocol for time synchronization.

[0102] For example, the component E12a may have a first interface device 10 (Fig. 2) according to the embodiments, and the control unit E11a has the second interface device 20 (or vice versa), wherein a data connection DV, e.g. similar or identical to the data connection DV according to Fig. 2, is provided between the units E11a, E12a.

[0103] In further exemplary embodiments, further control devices or units of the communication system 1000a according to Fig. 16 can also have at least one interface device 10, 20 (Fig. 2) according to the embodiments.

[0104] Fig. 17 schematically shows a simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000b according to exemplary embodiments. Element E20 symbolizes, by way of example, a vehicle computer, which in the present case has, by way of example, three interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c according to the embodiments, for example each having a configuration as described above by way of example with reference to Fig. 2. The vehicle computer E20 has a computing device E21, for example an image signal processor, e.g. for processing image or video signals supplied by a plurality of sensor modules SM-1, SM-2, ..., SM-N via respective data connections DV-1, DV-2, ... DV-M and the associated interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c.

[0105] For example, the vehicle computer E20 has a, e.g. central, time base, CLK and can, e.g. using a time synchronization protocol, e.g. gPTP, transmit time information and / or synchronization information via the data connections DV-1, DV-2, ... DV-M to the sensor modules SM-1, SM-2, ..., SM-N, which can, for example, adapt or check their local time base on this basis. To receive the time information and / or synchronization information via the data connections DV-1, DV-2, ... DV-M, the sensor modules SM-1, SM-2, ..., SM-N, for example, also have interface devices 20a, 20b, 20c according to the embodiments. In further exemplary embodiments, user data, e.g. control data for operation of the sensor modules SM-1, SM-2, ..., SM-N, can also be received via these interface devices 20a, 20b, 20c.

[0106] In further exemplary embodiments, the time information and / or synchronization information, for example according to the gPTP, can be transmitted advantageously combined with at least one signal SIG-ES for an energy-saving state with respect to the interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 20a, 20b, 20c or the corresponding data connections DV-1, DV-2, ..., DV-M. In other words, in further exemplary embodiments, time information and / or synchronization information, e.g. according to the gPTP, can be exchanged, for example transmitted, via the data connections DV-1, DV-2, ..., DV-M by means of the interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 20a, 20b, 20c using the principle according to the embodiments even when the interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 20a, 20b, 20c are in an energy-saving state, e.g. LPI according to EEE.

[0107] Fig. 18 schematically shows a simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000c according to exemplary embodiments. Element E20' symbolizes, by way of example, a vehicle computer, which in the present case has, by way of example, N interface devices 10a, 10b, ..., 10c according to the embodiments, and a gPTP timer unit, e.g., a gPTP-based Grand Master ("GM") E22. By way of example, a network coupling element, e.g., a switch E23, can be provided, e.g., for coupling the interface devices 10a, 10b, ..., 10c to one another and / or to at least one other component of the vehicle computer E20', e.g., a computing device E21.

[0108] Element E25 symbolizes, for example, a gPTP bridge device, e.g., implemented by or in a zone control unit, which can exchange, e.g., distribute, gPTP messages between the vehicle computer E20' and sensor modules E26, E27. For example, the gPTP bridge device E25 also has interface devices 20a, 20b, 20c for this purpose, as do the sensor modules E26, E27 (see elements 20d, 20e).

[0109] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 18, by means of the interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, applying the principle according to the embodiments, time information and / or synchronization information, e.g., according to gPTP, can be exchanged, e.g., transmitted, via data connections between the components E20', E25, E26, E27 even when the interface devices 10a, 10b, 10c, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e are, e.g., in a power-saving state, e.g., LPI according to EEE. In further exemplary embodiments, this applies both to the data connection between the components E20', E25 and to the data connections between the components E26, E27.

[0110] Fig. 19 schematically shows a simplified signaling diagram according to exemplary embodiments. Element E30 symbolizes a MAC layer of a first interface device 10 (Fig. 2), element E31 symbolizes a PHY layer of the first interface device 10, element E32 symbolizes a PHY layer of a second interface device 20 (Fig. 2), and element E33 symbolizes a MAC layer of the second interface device 20. In the present case, the elements E30, E31 are associated, for example, with a gPTP master port or they characterize the gPTP master port. In the present case, the elements E32, E33 are associated, for example, with a gPTP slave port or they characterize the gPTP slave port. The arrow DL symbolizes a first transmission direction according to exemplary embodiments, e.g.a downlink ("DL") direction from the gPTP master port to the gPTP slave port, and the arrow UL symbolizes a second transmission direction according to exemplary embodiments, e.g., an uplink ("UL") direction from the gPTP slave port to the gPTP master port.

[0111] The arrows a10, a11, and a12 symbolize gPTP messages from element E30 to element E31, from element E31 to element E32, and from element E32 to element E33, respectively. The arrows a13, a14, and a15 symbolize gPTP messages from element E33 to element E32, from element E32 to element E31, and from element E31 to element E30, respectively.

[0112] The blocks labeled "A" in Fig. 19 by way of example symbolize active phases ("no energy-saving state") along a time axis pointing vertically downwards in Fig. 19, and the blocks labeled "R" in Fig. 19 by way of example symbolize blocks of refresh phases, e.g., of an energy-saving state, e.g., between Q (e.g., "Quiet") phases (not shown) of an energy-saving state along the time axis pointing vertically downwards in Fig. 19. For example, in phases "R," one or more SIG-ES signals for the energy-saving state can be transmitted, e.g., together with the gPTP messages a10, a11, a12, a13, a14, a15, or parts thereof.

[0113] The symbol e in Fig. 19 symbolizes a comparatively small latency with respect to the transmission of the gPTP messages, which is made possible based on the principle according to the embodiments, for example by transmitting the first information 1-1 together with the one or more signals SIG-ES for the energy saving state (see blocks "R"). For example, in some embodiments, at time t1 of block E30, a first gPTP message a10 is sent to block E31, and already after the short latency e, a transmission of the second message a11, which is based, for example, on the first gPTP message a10, to block E32 is possible because after the short latency e, one or more signals SIG-ES for the energy-saving state are transmitted to block E32, for example refresh signals according to EEE, with which, for example, the second message a11 can be combined (for example embedding at least part of the message a11 in the refresh signal, see block R vertically below the latency e.This causes the second message a11 to be received at block E32 before time t2, and the message a12 sent by block E32 based on it to be received by block E33 at time t2. In conventional systems, in which, for example, gPTP messages—like other payload data—can only be transmitted during active phases ("A"), transmission of the gPTP message a11 would not have been possible before time t2, but rather, for example, only at time t5, at which a downlink transmission is enabled because the connection in the downlink direction becomes active from t5 onward, see block A-t5.

[0114] Fig. 20 schematically shows a simplified signaling diagram according to exemplary embodiments. Element E20' symbolizes, for example, the vehicle computer according to Fig. 18, which represents, by way of example, a gPTP Grand Master. Element 10a from Fig. 20 correspondingly symbolizes a gPTP Master Port. Element E25 symbolizes a zone control unit that can operate as a gPTP Bridge device, see also Fig. 18. Element 20a symbolizes a gPTP Slave port of the gPTP Bridge device E25, which interacts with the gPTP Master port 10a of element E20', and element 20b symbolizes a gPTP Master port of the gPTP Bridge device E25, which interacts with the gPTP Slave port 20d of element E26.

[0115] The following describes exemplary gPTP messages as exchanged between the units E20', E25, E26 based on exemplary embodiments according to Fig. 20.

[0116] The arrows a20 and a21 symbolize gPTP Announce messages. The arrows a22, a23, a24, a25, a32, a33, a34, a35, a42, a43, a49, a50, a56, a57, a58, and a59 symbolize gPTP Sync messages, for example, conventional gPTP Sync messages exchanged during active phases, i.e., outside of a power-saving state, e.g., LPI based on EEE.

[0117] In contrast, the arrows a44, a45, a51, a52 symbolize gPTP sync messages or parts of gPTP sync messages, as they are exchanged within a power-saving state, e.g., LPI based on EEE, according to the principle according to the embodiments, in the present case, e.g., between the elements E25, E26, e.g., in the form of the first information 1-1, e.g., combined with at least one signal SIG-ES for the power-saving state. Accordingly, reference symbol B1 symbolizes a first time period of "normal" operation, i.e., operation without a power-saving state of the interface devices 10a, 20a, 20b, 20d used. Similarly, reference symbol B3 symbolizes a third time period of "normal" operation, i.e., operation without a power-saving state of the interface devices 10a, 20a, 20b, 20d used.Temporarily between the time ranges B1, B3, a second time range B2 is provided, which is characterized by a power-saving state of the interface devices 20b, 20d in the downlink direction, e.g., based on or corresponding to an EEE-compliant LPI mode. While in conventional systems no payload data can be transmitted in LPI mode, and thus, e.g., no information for gPTP, the principle according to the embodiments advantageously enables a combination, e.g., of the gPTP sync messages with signals of the power-saving state, e.g., LPI mode, which is why the gPTP sync messages a44, a45, a51, a52 can also be transmitted in the second time range B2.

[0118] In further exemplary embodiments, the messages a44, a45, a51, a52 can, for example, have the exemplary structure IE-1 according to Fig. 11 or, using this structure IE-1, can be embedded in at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state.

[0119] The arrows a26, a29, a36, a39, a46, a53, a60, a63 according to Fig. 20 symbolize gPTP delay request messages, the arrows a27, a30, a37, a40, a47, a54, a61, a64 according to Fig. 20 symbolize gPTP delay response messages, and the arrows a28, a31, a38, a41, a48, a55, a62, a65 according to Fig. 20 symbolize gPTP followup response messages.

[0120] Blocks E40, E41, E42, E43, E44, E45, E46, E47, E48, E49, E50, E51 according to Fig. 20 symbolize a time setting, e.g., clock adjustment, e.g., based on at least some of the messages a20 to a65 exchanged according to Fig. 20. For example, a time setting of the unit E26 can also occur during the second time period B2, e.g., according to further exemplary embodiments, see blocks E43, E45, E47, E49.

[0121] In further exemplary embodiments, alternatively or in addition to the messages of the type gPTP Sync, gPTP Announce mentioned above as examples with reference to Fig. 20, one or more other message types, e.g. according to gPTP, can also be transmitted using the principle according to the embodiments, e.g. in the second time range B2, i.e. during the energy saving state (e.g. EEE LPI), e.g. by means of a combination of the one or more other message types, e.g. according to gPTP, with at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state.

[0122] In further exemplary embodiments, for example, the following gPTP messages or message types can be transmitted using the principle according to the embodiments: Announce message, Sync message (two step), Sync message (one step), Sync Follow_Up (e.g. two step), Pdelay_Req, Pdelay_Resp, Pdelay_Resp_Follow_Up).

[0123] In further exemplary embodiments, a power saving state, e.g., EEE LPI, may be entered or exited according to a predetermined schedule and / or based on data traffic, such as that observed by the zone controller E25, e.g., software of the zone controller E25.

[0124] In further exemplary embodiments, the energy saving state, eg EEE LPI, can also be entered or exited based on information and / or a state of the time synchronization protocol, eg gPTP.

[0125] In further exemplary embodiments, the integration 102a (Fig. 1), for example embedding, of the first information 1-1 into the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state is preferred because it does not require any change to existing structures, e.g. of the signal SIG-ES for the energy saving state or of data frames associated therewith.

[0126] In further exemplary embodiments, implementations of the principle according to the embodiments may differ, for example, with regard to different protocol layers such as PHY, MAC, and / or with regard to different transmission speeds. Further exemplary embodiments are given below which are applicable, for example, in the motor vehicle sector and which are based, for example, on at least one of the following Ethernet standards: IEEE P802.3bp (1000BASE-T1), IEEE P802.3ch “Multi-Gig” (2.5 / 5 / 10GBASE-T1), IEEE P802.3cy (25GBASE-T1), see also, for example: a) IEEE P802.3bp Standard for Ethernet Amendment 4: Physical Layer Specifications and Management Parameters for 1 Gb / s Operation over a Single Twisted-Pair Copper Cable, b) “IEEE Standard for Ethernet-Amendment 8: Physical Layer Specifications and Management Parameters for 2.5 Gb / s, 5 Gb / s, and 10 Gb / s Automotive Electrical Ethernet,” in IEEE Std 802.3ch-2020 (Amendment to IEEE Std 802.3-2018 as amended by IEEE Std 802.3cb-2018, IEEE Std 802.3bt-2018, IEEE Std 802.3cd-2018, IEEE Std 802.3cn-2019, IEEE Std 802.3cg-2019, IEEE Std 802.3cq-2020, and IEEE Std 802.3cm-2020) , vol., no., pp.1 -207, 30 June 2020, doi: 10.1109 / IEEESTD.2020.9146430, c) IEEE P802.3cy Standard for Ethernet - Amendment: Physical Layer Specifications and Management Parameters for greater than 10 Gb / s Electrical Automotive Ethernet.

[0127] In further exemplary embodiments, e.g. for 1000BASE-T1 Automotive Ethernet Physical Layer, and / or for Multi-Gig (2.5 / 5 / 10MGBASE-T1) Automotive Ethernet, signaling during

[0128] Energy saving state, e.g. EEE LPI, e.g. in an “lpi_refresh_time” (see time range T2 in Fig. 6), two-valued PAM (pulse amplitude modulation) refresh signals are received, whereby according to conventional standards an I nfofield information element has zeros.

[0129] Fig. 21 shows an example of an illustration of aspects of training data frames according to further exemplary embodiments, wherein the training data frames can be transmitted, for example, during the “lpi_refresh_time” (see the time range T2 in Fig. 6), i.e., for example, as signals for the energy-saving state. A first training data frame is designated by the reference symbol TF-1 and a second training data frame is designated by the reference symbol TF-2. In the first training data frame TF-1, a first infofield information element IF-IE-1 is provided, which, according to conventional approaches, has, for example, zeros as its data content, and in the second training data frame TF-2, a second infofield information element IF-IE-2 is provided, which, according to conventional approaches, has, for example, zeros as its data content.

[0130] In further exemplary embodiments, the bits or bit positions of the infofield information elements IF-IE-1, IF-IE-2 can be used, for example, to record the first information 1-1. In other words, the at least one part ZS-N-1 a (Fig. 3) of the message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol can be integrated into at least one of the infofield information elements IF-IE-1, IF-IE-2 of the training data frames TF-1, TF-2. As already described above, the first information 1-1 in further exemplary embodiments can, for example, have (possibly shortened) timestamp information (e.g. originTimestamp according to gPTP, and / or shortened originTimestamp according to gPTP) and / or trigger information or reference information and / or, for example, entire messages, e.g. gPTP messages.

[0131] In further exemplary embodiments, the reference information, see, for example, the reference symbol INF-REF from Fig. 12, can be used to relate a reception time to further gPTP information, such as header data and / or timestamp information (e.g., of the originTimestamp type). For example, in further exemplary embodiments, the reference information INF-REF can include a sequence ID (e.g., "sequenceD") or comparable information.

[0132] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 7, the first information 1-1 can, for example, also comprise security information INF-SEC such as a security identifier, e.g. a security tag (e.g. "SecTAG"), which, for example, enables authentication of a sender. In further exemplary embodiments, the security information INF-SEC can also be combined with one or more of the other pieces of information mentioned as examples for or parts of the first information, e.g. according to Fig. 7. In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 7, the first information 1-1 can, for example, also comprise information derived from the elements ZS-N, ZS-N-TRIG, ... described by way of example with reference to Fig. 7.

[0133] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 15, the principle according to the embodiments is used, for example, in communication systems 1000, 1000a for vehicles 1, for example to network sensor modules with one another or to create data connections, for example, from sensor modules to control units or a vehicle computer.

[0134] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be advantageously used for sensor modules with limited power loss (e.g. to avoid excessive self-heating) and / or for sensor modules with an asymmetric data traffic profile (e.g. comparatively high data volume for transmitting data, e.g. image or video data and / or other data associated with comparatively large amounts of information, e.g. to a control unit, with e.g. comparatively small data volume for receiving data, e.g. control data, e.g. from the control unit).

[0135] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments is usable, for example, for automotive BASE-T1 Ethernet systems, but is, in further exemplary embodiments, not limited to automotive single pair communication technology.

[0136] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for a camera sensor which, for example, has a much higher uplink rate (e.g., from the camera of the camera sensor to other control devices) than the downlink rate (from control devices to the camera sensor). For example, a local control device of the camera sensor, e.g., a camera ECU, sends the acquired camera sensor data via the uplink to a destination and receives, for example, image-specific information via the downlink. In further exemplary embodiments, in this configuration, the information sent via the downlink is sent at intervals, with corresponding messages, for example, having only a few bits. In this configuration, the channel is used, for example, asymmetrically, and an implementation of a power-saving state, e.g., based on EEE, can be advantageously used for power saving.In further exemplary embodiments, using the principle according to the embodiments, information of a protocol for time synchronization, e.g. of the camera sensor with one or more other control devices, e.g. based on or according to gPTP, can be combined with signals for the energy saving state, so that time synchronization of the camera module with other elements is ensured even during phases of an energy saving state.

[0137] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for radar sensors, for example for the automotive sector, which can generate data bursts, for example because an antenna front end is used sequentially to transmit radar signals and to receive signals reflected, for example, from objects in the environment. The data bursts can, for example, also lead to an asymmetric profile of the data traffic, so that, for example, EEE can be used to save energy. In further exemplary embodiments, using the principle according to the embodiments, information from a protocol for time synchronization, e.g. of the radar sensor with one or more other control units, e.g. based on or in accordance with gPTP, can be combined with signals for the energy-saving state, so that time synchronization of the radar sensor with other elements is ensured even during phases of the energy-saving state.

[0138] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for communication systems, e.g. for vehicles, in which some components frequently send information, e.g. data, to several, e.g. all other, components (e.g. "broadcast"), but receive, e.g. comparatively little data. EEE, for example, can also be used for this in order to save electrical energy. In further exemplary embodiments, using the principle according to the embodiments, information from a protocol for time synchronization, e.g. from components of the communication system, one or more other components of the communication system, e.g. based on or in accordance with gPTP, can be combined with signals for the energy-saving state, so that time synchronization of the components of the communication system with one another is ensured, e.g. even during phases of the energy-saving state.

[0139] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments is usable, for example, for systems for capturing (and, optionally, recording) data, eg for data logging, in which, for example, data streams of sensor data, eg of a prototype vehicle, are transmitted and stored, wherein energy saving is also possible, eg by using EEE, with simultaneous time synchronization, eg even during phases of the energy saving state, eg in EEE LPI.

[0140] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for time synchronization of components in a power-saving state or a state for data transmission with a reduced data rate. For example, when a vehicle communication system enters an operating state in which a quantity of collected and precise sensor data is not required, the communication profile in further exemplary embodiments can, for example, switch to an energy-efficient mode (e.g. using EEE), in which, in further exemplary embodiments, a quick restart of the communication is possible (e.g. comparatively short start-up time in a time window of, for example, several minutes). In this operating state, e.g. after the vehicle has been parked or stopped at a traffic light, there may be no need for the acquisition of, for example, long-range radar data in further exemplary embodiments.In further exemplary embodiments, the communication link can thus enter a sleep or EEE state, in which, in further exemplary embodiments, the synchronized time base is maintained, for example, for a specific time using the principle according to the embodiments. This function maintains (time) synchronization in further exemplary embodiments, and the vehicle could, for example, transition to a driving state more quickly, e.g., if the driver only wants to stop for a short time. Further exemplary embodiments, Fig.22, relate to a use 300 of the method according to the embodiments and / or the device 200, 200a, 200b according to the embodiments and / or the interface device 10, 20 according to the embodiments and / or the communication system 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c according to the embodiments and / or the vehicle 1 according to the embodiments and / or the computer-readable storage medium SM according to the embodiments and / or the computer program PRG according to the embodiments and / or the data carrier signal DCS according to the embodiments for at least one of the following elements: a) combining 301, for example combined transmission 302, of the at least one signal SIG-ES for the energy-saving state with the first information 1-1, which characterizes at least part of the message ZS-N of the time synchronization protocol, b) reducing 303 a latency, c) using 304 of time periods T2 (Fig.6) the energy saving state for transmitting information of the time synchronization protocol, d) enabling 305 time synchronization in Energy Efficient Ethernet, EEE, - based communication systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, e) distributing 306 time information in communication systems, for example in communication systems 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c for vehicles 1.

Claims

Claims 1 . Method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface device (10; 20), wherein the interface device (10; 20) is designed to provide (100) at least one signal (SIG-ES) for an energy-saving state, the method comprising: combining (102) the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy-saving state with first information (1-1) characterizing at least one of the following elements: a) a part (ZS-N-1 a) of a message (ZS-N) of a protocol for time synchronization, b) control information, for example time-critical control information, c) signaling, for example of time-critical and / or safety-critical states, transmitting (104) the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy-saving state together with the first information (1-1).

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the interface device (10; 20) is designed as an Ethernet interface device, for example an automotive Ethernet interface device, for example 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.

3. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the energy saving state is designed according to and / or based on at least the following standard: Energy Efficient Ethernet, IEEE 802.3az.

4. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the protocol for time synchronization is designed according to and / or based on at least one of the following standards: a) Precision Time Protocol, PTP, IEEE1588, b) generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP, IEEE 802.1 AS.

5. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the combining (102) of the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state with the first information (1-1) comprises at least one of the following elements: a) integrating (102a), for example embedding, the first information (1-1) into the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state, b) inserting (102b) the first information (1-1) before, for example directly before, the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state, c) appending (102c) the first information (1-1) after, for example directly after, the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state, d) providing (102d) the first information (1-1) for transmission within a time range (T2) in which the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state is transmittable.

6. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state is a refresh signal (SIG-REFRESH) according to one or the Energy Efficient Ethernet standard, wherein the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) integrating (110), for example embedding, the first information (1-1) in an infofield information element (IE-INFOFIELD) of the refresh signal (SIG-REFRESH), b) integrating (112), for example embedding, the first information (1-1) in a training sequence (TRAI IM-SEO) of the refresh signal (SIG-REFRESH), c) inserting (114) the first information (1-1) before, for example directly before, the refresh signal (SIG-REFRESH), d) appending (116) the first information (1-1) after, for example directly after, the refresh signal (SIG-REFRESH).

7. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: distributing (120) the message (ZS-N) of the protocol for time synchronization to the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state, for example distributing (120a) the message (ZS-N) of the protocol for time synchronization to a plurality of signals (SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, SIG-ES-3, ...) for the energy saving state, transmitting (122) the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state, for example transmitting (122a) the plurality of signals (SIG-ES-1, SIG-ES-2, SIG-ES-3, ...) for the energy saving state.

8. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the first information (1-1) comprises or characterizes information of the time synchronization protocol that is sensitive to latency, for example information associated with a synchronization message of the time synchronization protocol, for example with a sync message of the generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP.

9. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the first information (1-1) comprises at least one of the following elements: a) the entire message (ZS-N) of the time synchronization protocol, b) at least one part (ZS-N-TRIG) of the message (ZS-N) of the time synchronization protocol, which characterizes trigger information (INF-TRIG), and, optionally, reference information (INF-REF), which characterizes, for example, a reference of the trigger information to header information associated with the trigger information, c) at least one part (ZS-N-TIM) of the message (ZS-N) of the time synchronization protocol, which characterizes timestamp information (INF-TS), for example of the type originTimestamp according to the generalized Precision Time Protocol, gPTP, wherein, for example, the at least one part (ZS-N-TIM) characterizes at least one part (INF-TS') of the timestamp information (INF-TS), d) security information (INF-SEC).

10. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: dividing (130) the message (ZS-N) of the time synchronization protocol into a plurality of parts (ZS-N-1 a, ZS-N-1 b, ...), assigning (132) at least one of the plurality of parts (ZS-N-1 a, ZS-N-1 b, ...) to the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy saving state.

11. Method according to claim 10, wherein the splitting (130) comprises at least one of the following elements: a) separating (130a) header information of the message (ZS-N) from trigger information of the message (ZS-N), b) separating (130b) header information of the message (ZS-N) from time stamp information of the message (ZS-N), c) reducing (130c), for example shortening, time stamp information or the time stamp information of the message (ZS-N).

12. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: providing (140) an information element (IE-1) comprising twelve octets (o1, o2, o3, o4, o5, o6, o7, o8, o9, o10, o11, o12), wherein at least some of the octets comprise four (o4) to ten (o10) time stamp information (INF-TS) of the message (ZS-N) of the protocol for time synchronization, for example shortened time stamp information, wherein, for example, the first three octets (o1, o2, o3) have a prefix (PRE), for example values ​​of hexadecimal "BB", "A7", "00" respectively, wherein, for example, the last two octets (o11, o12) have a checksum (PS).

13. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising: providing (142) an information element (IE-2) comprising twelve octets (o1, o2, o3, o4, o5, o6, o7, o8, o9, o10, o11, o12), wherein at least some of the octets have four (o4) to ten (o10) reference information items (INF-REF) which, for example, characterize a relationship of trigger information to header information associated with the trigger information, for example a sequence number, wherein, for example, the first three octets (o1, o2, o3) have a prefix (PRE), for example, values ​​of hexadecimal "BB", "A7", "00" respectively, wherein, for example, the last two octets (o11, o12) have a checksum (PS).

14. The method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein a) the combining (102) is carried out at least temporarily and / or at least partially in layer 1 (PHY) of the ISO / OSI reference model, and / or wherein b) the combining (102) is carried out at least temporarily and / or at least partially in layer 2 (MAC) of the ISO / OSI reference model.

15. Method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with at least one interface device (10; 20), wherein the interface device (10; 20) is designed to receive (180) at least one signal (SIG-ES) for an energy-saving state, the method comprising: receiving the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy-saving state, extracting (182) first information (1-1) which characterize at least one of the following elements: a) a part (ZS-N-1 a) of a message (ZS-N) of a protocol for time synchronization, b) control information, for example time-critical control information, c) signaling, for example of time-critical and / or safety-critical states, from the received at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy-saving state.

16. Device (200; 200a; 200b) for carrying out the method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein, for example, the device (200) is designed to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14 and to carry out the method according to claim 15, wherein, for example, the device (200a) is designed to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 14, but for example not to carry out the method according to claim 15, wherein, for example, the device (200b) is designed to carry out the method according to claim 15, but for example not to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15.

17. Interface device (10, 20) comprising at least one device (200; 200a; 200b) according to claim 16.

18. Communication system (1000; 1000a; 1000b; 1000c) comprising at least one device (200; 200a; 200b) according to claim 16 and / or at least one interface device (10, 20) according to claim 17.

19. Vehicle, for example a motor vehicle, (1) comprising at least one device (200; 200a; 200b) according to claim 16 and / or at least one interface device (10, 20) according to claim 17 and / or at least one communication system (1000; 1000a; 1000b; 1000c) according to claim 18.

20. Computer-readable storage medium (SM) comprising instructions (PRG) which, when executed by a computer (202), cause the computer to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15.

21. A computer program (PRG) comprising instructions which, when the program (PRG) is executed by a computer (202), cause the computer (202) to carry out the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15.

22. Data carrier signal (DCS) that transmits and / or characterizes the computer program (PRG) according to claim 21.

23. Use of the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 15 and / or the device (200; 200a; 200b) according to claim 16 and / or the interface device (10, 20) according to claim 17 and / or the communication system (1000; 1000a; 1000b;1000c) according to claim 18 and / or the vehicle according to claim 19 and / or the computer-readable storage medium (SM) according to claim 20 and / or the computer program (PRG) according to claim 21 and / or the data carrier signal (DCS) according to claim 22 for at least one of the following elements: a) combining (301), for example combined transmission (302), of the at least one signal (SIG-ES) for the energy-saving state with the first information (1-1) that characterizes at least a part (ZS-N-1 a) of the message (ZS-N) of the time synchronization protocol, b) reducing (303) a latency, c) using (304) time ranges (T2) of the energy-saving state to transmit information of the time synchronization protocol, d) enabling (305) time synchronization in Energy Efficient Ethernet, EEE,-based communication systems, e) distributing (306) of time information in communication systems (1000, 1000a; 1000b;1000c), for example in communication systems (1000, 1000a; 1000b; 1000c) for vehicles (1).;

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