Method and apparatus for processing data associated with time information

Abstract

The invention relates to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with time information, for example for a controller and / or for a product that can be connected to the controller, for example a sensor device that can be connected to the controller, the method comprising: coordinating messages of a protocol for time synchronization, for example for the synchronization of the controller with the sensor device and / or with at least one further unit, with a configuration for an energy-saving state of at least one component, for example of the controller and / or the sensor device.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Method and apparatus for processing data associated with time information

[0003] State of the art

[0004] The disclosure relates to a method for processing data associated with time information.

[0005] The disclosure further relates to an apparatus for processing data associated with time information.

[0006] Disclosure of the invention

[0007] Example embodiments relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with time information, for example for a control unit and / or for a product that can be connected to the control unit, for example a sensor device that can be connected to the control unit, the method comprising: coordinating messages of a protocol for time synchronization, for example for synchronizing the control unit with the sensor device and / or with at least one further unit, with a configuration for an energy-saving state of at least one component, for example of the control unit and / or the sensor device. In further example embodiments, this can, for example, enable activation or deactivation of the control unit.Deactivation of the energy-saving state of at least one component is coordinated, for example synchronized, with the messages of a time synchronization protocol, so that, for example, an influence on messages of the time synchronization protocol by the energy-saving state is reduced, for example avoided. In further exemplary embodiments, the product connectable to the control unit is, for example, at least one of the following elements: a) sensor device, b) actuator, c) data sink, d) display, e) projector, f) network nodes, for example network end nodes, g) network subscriber.

[0008] In further exemplary embodiments, the method comprises exchanging, for example, sending and / or receiving, the time synchronization protocol messages, for example based on the configuration for the power-saving state. This can prevent, for example, in further exemplary embodiments, messages of the time synchronization protocol from being sent while the power-saving state is active, which could, for example, impair or prevent the sending of the time synchronization protocol messages.

[0009] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that 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.

[0010] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the method comprises: exchanging information, for example data, for example in the form of messages, via at least one data connection, wherein the at least one data connection is designed as an Ethernet data connection, for example as an automotive Ethernet data connection, for example according to or based on at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.3bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3cz, g) IEEE 802.3dh.

[0011] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the energy saving state is designed according to and / or based on at least the following standard: Energy Efficient Ethernet, IEEE 802.3az.

[0012] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) providing, for example creating, the configuration for the energy saving state, and / or b) determining the configuration for the energy saving state, wherein, for example, the determining comprises b1) observing data traffic associated with the time synchronization protocol, b2) predicting future data traffic associated with the time synchronization protocol, for example predicting future messages of the time synchronization protocol, and / or c) receiving the configuration for the energy saving state, for example from the at least one further unit

[0013] Further exemplary embodiments relate to an apparatus for carrying out the method according to the embodiments.

[0014] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a control unit comprising a device according to the embodiments.

[0015] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a product, for example a sensor device or a PHY interface module, comprising a device according to the embodiments.

[0016] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a system comprising at least one device according to the embodiments and / or at least one control unit according to the embodiments and / or at least one product, for example a sensor device, according to the embodiments.

[0017] 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 control unit according to the embodiments and / or at least one sensor device according to the embodiments and / or at least one system according to the embodiments.

[0018] 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. Further exemplary embodiments relate to a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the embodiments.

[0019] Further exemplary embodiments relate to a data carrier signal that transmits and / or characterizes the computer program according to the embodiments.

[0020] 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 control unit according to the embodiments and / or the sensor device according to the embodiments and / or the 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) Coordinating an exchange of at least one message of the protocol for time synchronization with the configuration for the energy-saving state of the at least one component, for example the control unit and / or the sensor device, b) Synchronizing a timer device of the at least one sensor device with a timer device of the control unit,c) Synchronizing a timer device of the at least one sensor device with a timer device of a, for example, central, control device, d) Distributing time information in or the system, for example between more than two components, e) Keeping two or more components of or the system synchronized, for example when the energy saving state is used at least temporarily, f) Orchestrating messages of the protocol for time synchronization with the configuration for the energy saving state, g) Determining the configuration for the energy saving state.

[0021] 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.

[0022] The drawing shows:

[0023] Fig. 1 schematically shows a simplified flow diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0024] Fig. 2 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0025] Fig. 3 schematically shows a simplified timing diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0026] Fig. 4 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0027] Fig. 5 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0028] Fig. 6 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0029] Fig. 7 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0030] Fig. 8 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0031] Fig. 9 schematically shows a simplified block diagram according to exemplary embodiments, Fig. 10 schematically shows a simplified sequence diagram according to exemplary embodiments,

[0032] Fig. 11 schematically illustrates aspects of uses according to exemplary embodiments.

[0033] Exemplary embodiments, Fig. 1, 2, relate to a method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with time information, for example for a control unit 10 (Fig. 2) and / or for a product that can be connected to the control unit 10, for example a sensor device 20 that can be connected to the control unit 10, for example via a first data connection DV-1, the method comprising: coordinating 100 (Fig. 1) messages MSG-PROT-ZS (Fig. 2) of a protocol PROT-ZS for time synchronization, for example for synchronizing the control unit 10 with the sensor device 20 and / or with at least one further unit 30, with a configuration CFG-ESZ for an energy-saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ of at least one component, for example of the control unit 10 and / or the sensor device 20. In further exemplary embodiments, this can, for example, enable or disable the energy-saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ of at least one component, for example of the control unit 10 and / or the sensor device 20.Deactivation of the energy saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ of at least one component is coordinated, for example synchronized, with the messages MSG-PROT-ZS of a protocol PROT-ZS for time synchronization, so that, for example, an influence of messages of the protocol for time synchronization by the energy saving state is reduced, for example avoided.

[0034] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 1 , it is provided that the method comprises: exchanging 102, for example sending 102a and / or receiving 102b, the messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, for example based on the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy saving state. In further exemplary embodiments, this can prevent, for example, messages of the time synchronization protocol from being sent when the energy saving state is active, which could, for example, impair or prevent the sending of the messages of the time synchronization protocol. In further exemplary embodiments (not shown), it is provided that the method comprises: adapting a CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy saving state, for example based on information from the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization.

[0035] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the PROT-ZS 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.

[0036] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 1 , it is provided that the method comprises: exchanging 102c information, for example data, for example in the form of messages MSG-PROT-ZS, via at least one data connection DV-1, DV-2 (Fig. 2), wherein the at least one data connection is designed as an Ethernet data connection, for example as an automotive Ethernet data connection, for example according to or based on at least one of the following standards: a) IEEE 802.3bw, b) IEEE 802.3bp, c) IEEE 802.3ch, d) IEEE 802.3cy, e) IEEE 802.3cg, f) IEEE 802.3cz, g) IEEE 802.3dh.

[0037] In further exemplary embodiments, it is provided that the energy-saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ is designed according to and / or based on at least the following standard: Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) according to IEEE 802.3az. For example, the energy-saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ is a low power idle (LPI) state of at least one PHY component (interface component for layer 1 of the ISO / OSI standard model), e.g., of the control unit 10 and / or the sensor device 20.

[0038] Fig. 3 schematically shows a simplified timing diagram according to exemplary embodiments. In a first time range ZB-1, for example, no energy saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ is active, and messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization can be transmitted unhindered, e.g. between at least one of the following components: a) control unit 10 (Fig. 2), b) sensor device 20, c) further unit, e.g. central controller, e.g. vehicle computer 30. In a second time range ZB-2 (Fig. 3), for example, the energy saving state 10-ESZ is active in a downlink of the first data connection DV-1 to the sensor device 20, and messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization cannot therefore be transmitted unhindered, e.g. not without delay, e.g. delayed with non-zero variance of the delay, from the control unit 10 to the sensor device 20, e.g. in the second time range ZB-2.In subsequent time ranges ZB-3, the energy saving state 10-ESZ in the downlink of the first data connection DV-1 to the sensor device 20 is not (e.g. no longer) active, and messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization can thus be transmitted unhindered, for example without delay, from the control unit 10 to the sensor device 20, e.g. in the third time ranges ZB-3.

[0039] In further exemplary embodiments, for example, the control unit 10 or a device 200 for the control unit 10 coordinates the sending of messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the protocol PROT-ZS for time synchronization via the first data connection DV-1 to the sensor device 20 with the schedule for the energy saving state symbolized by Fig. 3.

[0040] In further exemplary embodiments, it is also conceivable, for example, that the control unit 10 or a device 200 for the control unit 10 coordinates a or the schedule for the energy-saving state with a transmission of messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, e.g. via the first data connection DV-1 to the sensor device 20.

[0041] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments is applicable to an uplink and / or a downlink of a corresponding data connection.

[0042] In further exemplary embodiments, a configuration for the energy-saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ can be characterized, for example, by a schedule according to Fig. 3. In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 4, it is provided that the method comprises at least one of the following elements: a) providing 110, for example creating, the configuration CFG-ESZ for the energy-saving state, and / or b) determining 112 the configuration CFG-ESZ for the energy-saving state, wherein, for example, the determining comprises b1) observing 112a data traffic associated with the protocol P ROTZS for time synchronization, b2) predicting 112b future data traffic associated with the protocol PROT-ZS for time synchronization, for example predicting future messages of the protocol for time synchronization, and / or c) receiving 114 the configuration CFG-ESZ for the energy-saving state, for example from the at least one further unit 30.

[0043] For example, in some exemplary embodiments, a device 200 (see Fig. 5) executing aspects of the method can be integrated, for example, into a PHY interface module. In further exemplary embodiments, the provision 110, e.g., creation, of the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy-saving state can thus be performed, e.g., directly, in the PHY interface module.

[0044] For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy-saving state can, for example, indicate when at least one component 10, 20, 30 or a part thereof (e.g., PHY components for downlink) enters an energy-saving state, e.g., of the EEE LPI type. Thus, the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy-saving state characterizes information that, for example, indicates when which data connections DV-1, DV-2 can be used, e.g., for exchanging messages, such as messages of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization.

[0045] In further exemplary embodiments, see also element 112 of Fig. 4, learning, e.g., independent learning (e.g., "self-learning"), e.g., of a gPTP schedule, can be carried out. For example, based on observed gPTP data traffic, e.g., message traffic, it can be learned or predicted when future gPTP messages will occur, and in further exemplary embodiments, e.g., the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy-saving state, e.g., an EEE LPI configuration for at least one LPI, can be adapted based on the learning or prediction, e.g., such that the energy-saving state is exited before the next gPTP message occurs. After that, the energy-saving state can be entered again, for example.

[0046] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 5, relate to an apparatus 200 for carrying out the method according to the embodiments.

[0047] In further exemplary embodiments, the device 200 is, for example, assigned to the control unit 10 (Fig. 2), for example integrated into the control unit 10.

[0048] In further exemplary embodiments, the device 200 is, for example, assigned to the at least one sensor device 20 (Fig. 2), for example integrated into the at least one sensor device 20.

[0049] In further exemplary embodiments, the device 200 is associated (not shown) with the vehicle computer 30 (FIG. 2), for example, integrated into the vehicle computer 30.

[0050] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 5, it is provided that the device 200 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 associated with the configuration CFG-ESZ), b) computer program PRG, for example for executing the method according to the embodiments.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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 is exchangeable (receivable and / or transmittable), for example, via an optional data interface 206 of the device 200. The optional data interface 206 can be configured, for example, for information exchange, for example data exchange (e.g., data associated with the PROT-ZS protocol and / or sensor data and / or control data) (sending and / or receiving) via at least one of the data connections DV-1, DV-2 (Fig. 2).

[0055] In further exemplary embodiments, the device 200 can also be designed as, for example, a pure hardware circuit.

[0056] In further exemplary embodiments, the device 200 may be provided, for example, in a PHY interface module.

[0057] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 2, relate to a control unit 10, which is connectable and / or connected, for example, to at least one sensor device 20 via a first data connection DV-1, comprising a device 200 according to the embodiments.

[0058] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 2, relate to a product, for example a sensor device 20, which can be connected, for example, to a control unit, for example to a control unit 10 according to the embodiments, via a or the first data connection DV-1, comprising a device 200 according to the embodiments. Optionally, in further exemplary embodiments, the further unit 30 can also comprise a device 200 according to exemplary embodiments (not shown).

[0059] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 2, relate to a system 1000 comprising at least one device 200 according to the embodiments and / or at least one control unit 10 according to the embodiments and / or at least one sensor device 20 according to the embodiments.

[0060] Further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 6, relate to a vehicle, for example a motor vehicle, 1 comprising at least one device 200 according to the embodiments and / or at least one control unit 10 according to the embodiments and / or at least one sensor device 20 according to the embodiments and / or at least one system 1000 according to the embodiments.

[0061] Fig. 7 schematically shows a simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000a according to exemplary embodiments. Element E10 symbolizes, by way of example, a gateway, for example, for connecting at least some components of the communication system 1000a to at least one other communication system or network (not shown).

[0062] The elements E11 a, E11 b, E11 c symbolize, by way of example, central control units (e.g., "central ECU(s)"). The elements E12a, E12b, E12c, E12d symbolize, by way of example, sensor devices (e.g., similar or identical to the sensor device 20 according to Fig. 2) and / or actuators or other components that are associated with a comparatively high data rate, i.e., that, for example, at least temporarily transmit 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.). The elements E13a, E13b, E13c, E13d symbolize exemplary control units, e.g. zone control units (e.g. "zonal ECU(s)"), e.g. similar or identical to the control unit 10 according to Fig. 2. The elements collectively designated by the reference numeral E14 symbolize (e.g. conventional) sensors and / or actuators, which are associated, e.g., with comparatively low data rates.

[0063] 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, and / or in the area of ​​the elements E13a, E13b, E13d, E12a, E12b, E12d, whereby in further exemplary embodiments a reliable synchronization is enabled, for example at least outside of time ranges ZB-2 (Fig. 3) in which at least some data connections DV are put into an energy-saving state, for example according to EEE.

[0064] Fig. 8 schematically shows a simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000b according to exemplary embodiments, in which the principle according to the embodiments can be used. Element E20 symbolizes, for example, a vehicle computer, for example at least similar to the further unit 30 according to Fig. 2. The vehicle computer E20 has, for example, three interface devices S1, S2, S3, for example of the Ethernet type, e.g., Automotive Ethernet. The vehicle computer E20 has a computing device E21, for example, an image signal processor, e.g., for processing image or video signals received from a plurality of sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N via respective data connections DV-

[0065] 1, DV-2, ... DV-M and the associated interface devices S4, S5, S6 are supplied.

[0066] For example, the vehicle computer E20 has a, e.g. central, time base or timer device, E20-CLK and can, e.g. using the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization, e.g. gPTP, time information and / or synchronization information via the data connections DV-1, DV-

[0067] 2, ... DV-M to the sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N, which can, for example, adapt or check their local time base or timer device 20-1 -CLK, 20-2- CLK, ..., 20-N-CLK on this basis. To receive the time information and / or synchronization information via the data connections DV-1, DV-2, ... DV-M, the sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N have the interface devices S4, S5, S6 already described. In further exemplary embodiments, user data, e.g. control data for operation of the sensor devices 20-1, 20-2, ..., 20-N, can also be received via these interface devices S4, S5, S6.

[0068] Due to the coordination of the messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the PROT-ZS protocol for time synchronization with the configuration CFG-ESZ (Fig. 2) for the energy saving state 10-ESZ, 20-ESZ of at least one component, for example the control unit and / or the sensor device according to exemplary embodiments, in further exemplary embodiments a reliable time synchronization of the components E20-CLK, 20-1-CLK, 20-2-CLK, ..., 20-N-CLK outside of a respective energy saving state is possible.

[0069] Fig. 9 schematically shows a simplified block diagram of a communication system 1000c according to exemplary embodiments, in which the principle according to the embodiments can be used. Element E20' symbolizes, by way of example, a vehicle computer, which in the present case has, by way of example, N interface devices S1, S2, ..., SN 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 S1, S2, ..., SN to one another and / or to at least one other component of the vehicle computer E20', e.g., a computing device E21.

[0070] Element E25 symbolizes, for example, a gPTP bridge device, e.g., implementable by means of or in a zone control unit, which can exchange, e.g., distribute, messages MSG-PROT-ZS, e.g., gPTP messages, between the vehicle computer E20' and (in this case, e.g., two) sensor devices E26, E27 (in further exemplary embodiments, more or fewer than two sensor devices E26, E27 are also conceivable). For example, the gPTP bridge device E25 also has interface devices SR, SS, ST for this purpose, just like the sensor devices E26, E27, see elements SX, SY. The respective data connections, e.g., of the Ethernet type, e.g., Automotive Ethernet type, are not labeled in Fig. 9 for reasons of clarity. The gPTP bridge device E25 also has a local timer device E25a. Analogously, the sensor devices E26, E27 each have a local timer device E26a, E27a.

[0071] In further exemplary embodiments, Fig. 9, the timing devices E22, E25a, E26a, E27a of the various components E20', E25, E26, E27 can be synchronized using the principle according to the embodiments, e.g. based on a coordination of the messages MSG-PROT-ZS of the protocol PROT-ZS for time synchronization with the configuration CFG-ESZ for the energy saving state of at least one component E25, SS, ST, E26, SX, E27, SY.

[0072] For example, in some time ranges ZB-1, ZB-3 (Fig. 3), synchronization of the timing devices E22, E25a, E26a, E27a (Fig. 9) of the various components E20', E25, E26, E27 can be performed using the PROT-ZS protocol, e.g., in coordination with the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy-saving state. For example, in some time ranges ZB-2 (Fig. 3), synchronization of the timing devices E25a, E26a, E27a of the various components E25, E26, E27 can be omitted, e.g., in coordination with the CFG-ESZ configuration for the energy-saving state.

[0073] For example, the data connection between the components E20', E25 does not assume a power saving state, so that the PROT-ZS protocol can always be used for synchronization via this data connection.

[0074] For example, the data connections between the components E25, E26, E27 assume an energy-saving state at least temporarily, e.g. in the second time range ZB-2 (Fig. 3), so that no synchronization of the timing devices E25a, E26a, E27a of the various components E25, E26, E27 can be carried out via these data connections during the second time range ZB-2.

[0075] Fig. 10 schematically shows a simplified sequence diagram according to exemplary embodiments. Element E30 symbolizes a vehicle computer, for example, for the motor vehicle 1 (Fig. 6). For example, the vehicle computer E30 at least temporarily assumes the role of a gPTP Grand Master (GM). Element E31 symbolizes a gPTP master port, and element E32 symbolizes a configuration device that, for example, provides a gPTP configuration (see element e1). Optionally, the configuration device can also provide a schedule, e.g., "EEE schedule," for the energy-saving state of at least one component (see element e2), for example, corresponding to or characterizing at least part of the CFG-ESZ configuration (Fig. 2).

[0076] Element E33 symbolizes a zone control unit, e.g. operating at least temporarily as a gPTP bridge, e.g. similar or identical to the control unit 10 according to Fig. 2. Element E34 symbolizes a gPTP slave port, via which e.g. messages from the vehicle computer E30 can be received, and E36 symbolizes a client, e.g. LPI (low power idle) client, which is designed e.g. to control aspects of an energy saving state, e.g. EEE LPI.

[0077] Element E37 symbolizes a sensor device, e.g. similar or identical to the sensor device 20 according to Fig. 2, e.g. in a role as "gPTP ES", and element E38 symbolizes a gPTP slave port, which receives messages from the zone control unit E33 from element E35, symbolizing a gPTP master port.

[0078] Element P1 symbolizes an initialization phase. Element P2 symbolizes a regular operating phase in which, for example, no energy-saving state is entered. Element P3 symbolizes a phase associated with an energy-saving state, in which a downlink from the zone control unit E33 to the sensor device E37 (e.g., similar to the first data connection DV-1 according to Fig. 2) is placed in an EEE-based energy-saving state, e.g., of the LPI type. Element P4 symbolizes a regular operating phase in which, for example, no energy-saving state is entered, e.g., comparable to the operating phase P2.

[0079] The elements e3, e4, e5, e6, e15, e16, e17, e18 symbolize messages, e.g. of the gPTP, for synchronization, and the elements e26, e27, e28, e29, e30, e31, e32, e33 symbolize, e.g. based on the messages e3, e4, e5, e6, e15, e16, e17, e18, corrections (e.g. clock adjustments) of the timing devices of the components E33, E37. The elements e7, e10, e19, e22 symbolize gPTP delay requests, the elements e8, e11, e20, e23 symbolize corresponding gPTP delay responses, and the elements e9, e12, e21, e24 symbolize corresponding gPTP followup responses.

[0080] Element e13 symbolizes a message indicating entering an EEE power saving state (e.g., like element e25), and element e14 symbolizes a message indicating exiting the EEE power saving state.

[0081] In further exemplary embodiments, utilizing the principle according to the embodiments, no exchange of time synchronization messages, e.g., gPTP messages, takes place within phase P3 of the energy-saving state. Rather, an exchange of time synchronization messages, e.g., gPTP messages, is coordinated with the configuration of the energy-saving state, e.g., element e2, so that time synchronization messages, e.g., gPTP messages, are exchanged between components E33, E37 outside of phase P3. This coordination according to further exemplary embodiments enables efficient synchronization when it is possible, for example, due to an inactive energy-saving state.

[0082] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments is used, for example, in communication systems 1000, 1000a, 100b, 1000c for vehicles 1 (Fig. 6), for example to network sensor modules or sensor devices 20 with one another or to create data connections DV-1, DV-2, for example from sensor modules or sensor devices 20 to control units 10 or a vehicle computer 30 and to enable efficient synchronization.

[0083] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used advantageously, for example, for products, for example sensor devices 20 with a limitation in terms of power loss (for example to avoid excessive self-heating) and / or for sensor devices 20 with an asymmetric data traffic profile (for example, a comparatively high data volume for transmitting data, for example image or video data and / or other data associated with comparatively large amounts of information, for example to a control unit 10, with a comparatively small data volume for receiving data, for example control data, for example from the control unit 10).

[0084] 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 twisted pair communication technology.

[0085] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for a camera sensor (e.g., as sensor device 20), 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, such as setting the exposure or controlling the recording time, via the downlink. In further exemplary embodiments, in this configuration, the information sent via the downlink is sent at intervals, with corresponding messages, e.g., having only a comparatively few bits. In this configuration, the channel is used, for example, asymmetrically, and an implementation of the energy-saving state EZS, e.g.,Based on EEE, it can be advantageously used for energy savings. In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used to efficiently synchronize the components involved, so that the time synchronization of the camera module is coordinated with phases ZB-2 (Fig. 3), P3 (Fig. 10) of an energy-saving state.

[0086] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for radar sensors, e.g., for the automotive sector, which can generate data bursts, e.g., because an antenna front end is used sequentially to transmit radar signals and receive signals reflected from objects in the environment. The data bursts can also lead to an asymmetric data traffic profile, e.g., so that EEE can be used, e.g., to save energy.

[0087] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for communication systems, e.g., for vehicles 1 (Fig. 6), in which some components frequently transmit information to several, e.g., all other, components (e.g., "broadcast"), but receive comparatively little data. EEE, for example, can also be used for this purpose to save electrical energy.

[0088] 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, in coordination with messages for time synchronization.

[0089] In further exemplary embodiments, the principle according to the embodiments can be used, for example, for time synchronization of components that are temporarily put into a power-saving state or into a state for data transmission with a reduced data rate. For example, if 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, a few minutes). In this operating state, e.g. after the vehicle has been parked or stopped at a traffic light, in further exemplary embodiments there may be no need for the detection of, for example,B. long-range radar data. In further exemplary embodiments, the communication link can thus enter a sleep or EEE state. Further exemplary embodiments, Fig.11 , relate to a use 300 of the method according to the embodiments and / or the device 200 according to the embodiments and / or the control unit 10 according to the embodiments and / or the sensor device 20 according to the embodiments and / or the 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) Coordinating 301 an exchange of at least one message MSG-PROT-ZS of the protocol PROZ-ZS for time synchronization with the configuration CFG-ESZ for the energy-saving state of the at least one component, for example the control unit and / or the sensor device, b) Synchronizing 302 a timer device 20-CLK (Fig.2) the at least one sensor device 20 with a timer device 10-CLK of the control unit 10, c) synchronizing 303 a timer device 20-CLK of the at least one sensor device 20 with a timer device 30-CLK of a, for example, central, control device 30, d) distributing 304 time information in or the system 1000, 1000a, 1000b, 1000c, for example between more than two components 10, 20, 30, e) keeping 305 two or more components 10, 20, 30 of a or the system synchronized, for example when the energy saving state is used at least temporarily, f) orchestrating 306 messages of the protocol for time synchronization with the configuration for the energy saving state, g) determining 307 the configuration for the energy saving state.

Claims

Claims 1 . Method, for example a computer-implemented method, for processing data associated with time information, for example for a control unit (10) and / or for a product connectable to the control unit (10), for example a sensor device (20) connectable to the control unit (10), the method comprising: coordinating (100) messages (MSG-PROT-ZS) of a protocol (PROT-ZS) for time synchronization, for example for synchronizing the control unit (10) with the sensor device (20) and / or with at least one further unit (30), with a configuration (CFG-ESZ) for an energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) of at least one component, for example of the control unit (10) and / or the sensor device (20).

2. The method according to claim 1, comprising: exchanging (102), for example sending (102a) and / or receiving (102b) the messages (MSG-PROT-ZS) of the protocol (P ROT-ZS) for time synchronization, for example based on the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ).

3. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, wherein the protocol (P ROT-ZS) 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.

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

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

6. Method according to at least one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following elements: a) providing (110), for example creating, the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), and / or b) determining (112) the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), wherein, for example, the determining (112) comprises b1) observing (112a) data traffic associated with the protocol (P ROT-ZS) for time synchronization, b2) predicting (112b) future data traffic associated with the protocol (P ROT-ZS) for time synchronization, for example predicting future messages of the protocol (PROT-ZS) for time synchronization, and / or c) receiving (114) the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), for example of at least one further unit (30) 7. Device (200) for carrying out the method according to at least one of the preceding claims.

8. Control unit (10) comprising a device (200) according to claim 7.

9. Product, for example a sensor device (20), comprising a device (200) according to claim 7.

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

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

12. 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 6.

13. 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 6.

14. Data carrier signal (DCS) that transmits and / or characterizes the computer program (PRG) according to claim 13.

15. Use of the method according to at least one of claims 1 to 6 and / or the device (200) according to claim 7 and / or the control unit (10) according to claim 8 and / or the sensor device (20) according to claim 9 and / or the system (1000) according to claim 10 and / or the vehicle (1) according to claim 11 and / or the computer-readable storage medium (SM) according to claim 12 and / or the computer program (PRG) according to claim 13 and / or the data carrier signal (DCS) according to claim 14 for at least one of the following elements: a) coordinating (301) an exchange of at least one message (MSG-PROT-ZS) of the protocol (PROT-ZS) for time synchronization with the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy-saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ) of the at least one component, for example the control unit (10) and / or the sensor device (20),b) synchronizing (302) a timer device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with a timer device (10-CLK) of the control unit (10), c) synchronizing (303) a timer device (20-CLK) of the at least one sensor device (20) with a timer device (30-CLK) of a, for example, central, control device (30), d) distributing (304) time information in or the system (1000), for example between more than two components (10, 20, 30), e) keeping (305) two or more components (10, 20, 30) of or the system (1000) synchronized, for example during at least temporary use of the energy saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), f) orchestrating (306) messages (MSG-PROT-ZS) of the protocol (PROT-ZS) for Time synchronization with the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ), g) Determine, (307) of the configuration (CFG-ESZ) for the energy saving state (10-ESZ, 20-ESZ).

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