Client Device And Independent Sensor Clock Synchronization Via USB PTP
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Solution Overview
Problem
Client devices, such as smartphones, have limited methods for connecting with external devices, making it difficult to synchronize and control them like dedicated sensors, which are typically equipped with dedicated inputs and outputs.
Innovation Solution
A data capture system that encodes a precision time protocol (PTP) through a USB port using USB bulk messages to synchronize the internal clocks of a client device and an independent sensor, allowing for precise timestamping and synchronization of data generation between the two systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If client devices use limited connection methods (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB) to connect with external devices, then connectivity is achieved, but synchronization and control capability deteriorates compared to dedicated sensors with dedicated inputs and outputs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that mediates between the client device and independent sensors. The controller receives PTP synchronization messages via USB bulk messages, processes timing information, and coordinates data capture across multiple sensors. This intermediary approach allows standard client devices with limited connectivity to achieve synchronized operation with dedicated sensors without requiring direct control capability over each sensor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard USB communication is used between client device and controller, then compatibility is improved, but timing precision and synchronization accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the communication parameters by encoding Precision Time Protocol (PTP) data within USB bulk messages. This parameter transformation allows the system to use standard USB communication infrastructure while conveying precise timing information. The PTP messages contain timestamp data that enables the controller to achieve high-precision synchronization despite using the less precise USB communication interface, effectively decoupling the communication medium from the timing precision requirement.
3Measurement precision
If PTP is encoded in USB bulk messages, then synchronization precision is improved, but message transmission complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the USB bulk message interface multi-functional by using it for both standard device communication and PTP synchronization. The same USB bulk message channel that is already established for data transfer between the client device and controller is also used to convey precise timing information. This universal use of the existing communication infrastructure avoids adding separate dedicated timing channels, thereby reducing overall system complexity while achieving high synchronization precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a first sensor system and a second sensor system. The first sensor system includes a first internal clock, a first sensor configured to generate data describing an environment, and a Universal Serial Bus (USB) module. The second sensor system includes a second internal clock and a controller configured to perform a precision time protocol (PTP) to synchronize the second internal clock with the first internal clock. The precision time protocol includes transmitting timestamped messages encoded in USB bulk messages between the first sensor system and the second sensor system. The timestamped messages may be encoded in USB musical instrument digital interface (MIDI) bulk messages.