Edge Device Clocking with Dynamic Time Protocol Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clocking methods in military edge devices lack sufficient precision and security, particularly in the face of cyber threats and the need for accurate timekeeping in modern warfare.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an edge device with a timing element that produces a period signal and a counter that provides multiple indications of time, including a standard time protocol and a non-standard time protocol that can change in response to triggering events, enhancing security and disrupting cyber attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a standard time protocol is used for timekeeping, then time accuracy is improved, but security against cyber attacks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a static, fixed time protocol to a dynamic time protocol that can change based on detected triggering events. The system switches between a first time protocol (e.g., NTP) for normal operations and a second time protocol (e.g., PTP) when triggering events are detected, allowing the system to adapt its timekeeping mechanism based on security conditions and operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of time protocol selection based on triggering events. By detecting specific events (such as battlefield conditions or security threats) and switching between different time protocols accordingly, the system modifies its temporal parameters to balance accuracy and security requirements under different operational contexts.
2Reliability
If multiple time protocols are implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the time protocol functionality into distinct components: a first time protocol handler for normal operations and a second time protocol handler for security-critical situations. This segmentation allows the system to manage multiple protocols independently, switching between them based on triggering events without requiring a monolithic complex implementation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects which time protocol to use based on triggering events, rather than running both protocols simultaneously. This dynamic approach reduces the effective complexity by activating only the necessary protocol for the current operational context, while maintaining the capability to switch between protocols when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
An edge device including software implemented in non-transitory computer-readable mediums connectable to a communication network having at least one timing element that produces a period signal that is countable, and at least one counter that counts the period signal. The at least one counter provides a first indication of time based upon the counts of the period signal and upon a triggering event, the at least one counter provides a second indication of time based upon the counts of the periodic signal wherein the second indication of time differs from first indication of time. A signal transmitted by the edge device may use time hopping with the time hopping defined in a predetermined manner or a random manner. The second indication of time may have a protocol defined in a predetermined manner or a random manner. This extra complexity enhances the security of edge devices in a network.