Converter Node Clock Synchronization Across Redundant Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing time synchronization methods in converter devices are not applicable when multiple redundant communication paths are present, as they rely on a known communication path to estimate delays.
Innovation Solution
A method for synchronizing time between nodes in a converter device that involves receiving a time reference from a second node, obtaining a delay value for receiving time references, determining a compensated time by adding the delay value to the time reference, and setting a clock in the first node to the compensated time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple redundant communication paths are used for time reference transmission, then reliability of time synchronization is improved, but delay estimation becomes inaccurate due to path variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where each node measures the actual time it takes to receive time references from the master clock source. These measured delays are fed back to the node's clock setting mechanism, which then compensates for the measured delay by adjusting the local clock time. This feedback loop ensures accurate time synchronization even when multiple communication paths with varying delays are available.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter being synchronized from absolute time to compensated time. Instead of all nodes using the same absolute time reference, each node calculates a compensated time by adding its measured communication delay to the received time reference. This parameter transformation allows each node to account for its specific communication path characteristics while maintaining overall system synchronization.
2Measurement precision
If delay compensation is performed for each node individually, then time synchronization precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the time synchronization problem into independent per-node delay measurements and compensations. Each node independently measures its own communication delay from the master clock source and applies compensation to its local clock. This segmentation allows precise synchronization without requiring complex centralized coordination, as each node autonomously handles its own timing adjustment based on simple local measurements.
Data Source
AI summary
A method can be used to synchronize time between nodes of a converter device for high voltage power conversion. The method is performed in a first node of the converter device and includes receiving a time reference from a second node of the converter device, obtaining a delay value for receiving time references from the second node, determining a compensated time by adding the delay value to the time reference, and setting a clock in the first node to be the compensated time.