Dual Clock Time Synchronization Controller
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional information processing apparatuses face inconvenience in setting local time, especially when disconnected from a clock server, leading to potential time differences and requiring user intervention for time synchronization.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus equipped with a communication device, first and second clocks, and a storage device, which allows synchronization with a host computer or clock server, setting local time based on received time information and stored settings, ensuring accurate timekeeping even without continuous internet connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the information processing apparatus receives time information from an external device (host computer), then the local time can be set quickly and conveniently, but the time accuracy may be compromised when the apparatus is disconnected from the clock server
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the timekeeping function into two independent clocks: a first clock for measuring local time and a second clock for measuring time based on clock server information. This segmentation allows each clock to serve its specific purpose without interfering with the other, resolving the contradiction between convenience and accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the controller and storage device) that manages multiple time sources. The controller judges whether specified conditions are met and selectively updates the first clock based on time information from either the external device or the second clock, acting as an intermediary that balances convenience and accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If the information processing apparatus continuously synchronizes with the clock server, then the time accuracy is maintained, but the system requires continuous network connection and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by having the apparatus synchronize with the clock server in advance and store the time information in the second clock before disconnection occurs. This preliminary synchronization ensures that accurate time is already recorded and can be used later without requiring continuous network connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the system to serve itself by using the stored time information from the second clock to update the first clock when disconnected from the network. The apparatus autonomously manages its timekeeping without requiring external intervention or continuous network connectivity.
3Device complexity
If the apparatus uses only the first clock for local time, then the system is simpler, but the time may drift when disconnected from external time sources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two clock functions into a unified timekeeping system. The first clock measures local time and the second clock measures time based on clock server information, both working together under the control of the controller to ensure reliable timekeeping whether connected or disconnected from external sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the controller continuously monitors the specified conditions and selectively updates the first clock based on time information from either the external device or the second clock. This feedback loop ensures timekeeping reliability by correcting drift when it occurs.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes: a communication device communicating with an external device and a clock server; a first clock measuring a local time; a second clock measuring a time based on time information from the clock server; a storage device storing setting information; and a controller performing: when receiving the time information from the external device, judging whether a specified condition is met; when the specified condition is met, setting a time indicated by the time information to the first clock as the local time; when the specified condition is met, controlling the first clock to measure the local time, without the controller setting the time to the first clock as the local time; setting the time indicated by the time information to the second clock and setting a time determined based on the time of the second clock and the setting information to the first clock.