Factory Control Timer Synchronization via Triggered Adjustment Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing factory automation control systems face challenges in synchronizing timing for data collection and transmission between multiple control devices, leading to difficulties in coordinating the operation of machines connected to different control devices.
Innovation Solution
A control system that includes a first unit and a second unit, each with a timer, a data line for exchanging timer values, a signal line for electrical connection, and an adjustment module. The adjustment module receives a trigger signal and matches the timers between the units based on the exchanged timer values, simplifying time synchronization without the need for complex communication sessions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a means for calculating the amount of correction for time synchronization is provided, then time synchronization between control devices is achieved, but the synchronization procedure becomes complicated and requires much time for processing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the timer value acquisition and matching functionality into a dedicated adjustment module. This module specifically handles the time synchronization task by acquiring timer values from both control devices and automatically matching them, separating this function from the main control logic and simplifying the overall synchronization procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment module performs time synchronization autonomously by automatically acquiring timer values from the control devices and matching them without requiring complex external coordination. The module self-manages the synchronization process, reducing the burden on the overall system and simplifying the procedure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple control devices perform mutually independent control processing, then each control device can operate autonomously, but it is not possible to synchronize timing for data collection and transmission between control devices
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment module serves as an intermediary between the independently operating control devices. It receives timer values from both devices and performs the matching operation, enabling synchronization without interfering with the autonomous control processing of each device. The module mediates the timing coordination while preserving operational independence.
3Reliability
If time request packets and time response packets are exchanged for time synchronization, then synchronization is achieved, but the procedure requires much time for packet communication and correction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the multi-step packet communication mechanism with a more efficient timer value acquisition and matching approach. Instead of exchanging time request and response packets through complex communication protocols, the system directly acquires timer values and performs matching operations, significantly reducing the time required for synchronization.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for factory automation includes a first unit and a second unit each including a timer, a data line over which data containing a timer value indicated by the timer is exchanged between the first unit and the second unit, a signal line that electrically connects the first unit and the second unit, and an adjustment module connected to the signal line and the data line. The adjustment module acquires, when receiving a trigger signal over the signal line, the timer value over the data line and matches the timer of the second unit with the timer of the first unit based on the timer value acquired.