Dual Clock Synchronization Control for Error Pattern Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control systems in critical facilities like nuclear and wind power plants are vulnerable to clock synchronization errors and malicious attacks, leading to potential fatal consequences due to the use of dual clock synchronization mechanisms that fail to differentiate between transitory, interval-changing, and consecutive errors.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a dual clock synchronization mechanism that includes separate first and second clock synchronizers for NTP-based and contact signals, each with pattern analyzers and validity determiners to differentiate between transitory, interval-changing, and consecutive errors, allowing for adaptive clock synchronization and warning mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dual clock synchronization mechanism is used to improve clock synchronization reliability, then clock synchronization accuracy is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to clock synchronization errors and malicious attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the clock synchronization system into two independent synchronizers: a first clock synchronizer for contact signals and a second clock synchronizer for NTP signals. Each synchronizer operates separately with its own pattern analyzer and validity determiner, allowing independent analysis and validation of different synchronization sources to prevent single-point failures and malicious attacks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where pattern analyzers continuously monitor signal reception patterns and feed this information to validity determiners. The validity determiners use this feedback to identify transitory errors, interval-changing situations, and consecutive errors, then provide feedback to the controller to switch between synchronizers or alert operators, creating a closed-loop safety system
2Ease of operation
If clock synchronization is performed without differentiating error types, then the system is simpler to operate, but serious control problems occur in dangerous facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated pattern analysis and validity determination. The pattern analyzers automatically monitor signal patterns, the validity determiners automatically classify error types (transitory, interval-changing, consecutive), and the controller automatically switches between synchronizers or triggers alerts without requiring manual intervention, maintaining both simplicity and high reliability
3Device complexity
If a single clock synchronizer is used to simplify the system structure, then device complexity is reduced, but the system cannot detect or handle different types of clock synchronization errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the clock synchronization function into two separate synchronizers, each with its own pattern analyzer and validity determiner. This segmentation allows specialized error detection for different signal types while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture where each component has a specific, well-defined function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by implementing pattern analysis and validity determination at the signal processing stage rather than requiring complex system-wide monitoring. Each synchronizer performs only the necessary analysis for its specific signal type, avoiding excessive complexity while achieving comprehensive error detection
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a control device for a control system with a dual clock synchronization mechanism which detects a clock synchronization problem resulting from various circumstances of a site to analyze a situation related to the clock synchronization problem and warn of the situation. Therefore, it is possible to efficiently handle a clock synchronization problem resulting from various circumstances of a site.