Blockchain Time Sync for Low-Orbit Satellite Clusters
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing time synchronization methods for low-orbit satellite clusters, such as those using Network Time Protocol (NTP), suffer from low precision due to server overload prevention mechanisms, which are inadequate for the precise control required in satellite operations.
Innovation Solution
A block chain-based distributed consensus method for time synchronization in satellite clusters, where each satellite receives time information from directly connected peers, calculates a reference time based on peer reliability, performs synchronization, records a synchronization history, and generates new blocks to propagate this history across the network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If NTP server hierarchically propagates reference time to prevent server overload, then server reliability is improved, but time synchronization precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the time synchronization function from a centralized NTP server hierarchy and distributes it to individual satellites. Each satellite independently receives time information from directly connected satellites and calculates reference time locally, eliminating the hierarchical propagation structure that limits precision while maintaining system reliability through distributed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a block chain-based distributed consensus mechanism as an intermediary layer between satellites. This consensus mechanism verifies and records time synchronization data across the network, enabling high-precision synchronization without relying on a centralized server, thus resolving the contradiction between server reliability and synchronization precision.
2Measurement precision
If centralized NTP server propagates reference time, then time synchronization is achieved, but system robustness against malicious attacks and outliers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized time synchronization system into multiple independent satellite nodes. Each satellite independently receives time information from directly connected satellites and performs local calculations, creating a distributed architecture that prevents single-point failures and enhances robustness against malicious attacks and outliers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a block chain-based feedback mechanism where time synchronization data is verified, recorded, and propagated across the network. This feedback loop enables the system to detect and correct anomalies, reject malicious data, and maintain robustness while achieving high-precision synchronization through collective consensus.
3Reliability
If hierarchical NTP propagation is used, then server overload is prevented, but time synchronization speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static hierarchical NTP propagation structure into a dynamic distributed network where any satellite can directly receive and propagate time information. This dynamic architecture enables parallel synchronization operations across multiple paths, dramatically increasing synchronization speed while maintaining server overload prevention through distributed load.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are a time synchronization method and apparatus for a low-orbit satellite cluster. The time synchronization method for a low-orbit satellite cluster includes: receiving time information from N participating satellites directly connected; calculating a reference time using time information based on a reliability of each of the N participating satellites; performing time synchronization using the reference time and then recording a synchronization history; and generating a new block using the synchronization history.