GPS PPS Synchronization for Multi-Camera Shutter Timing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing techniques for synchronizing multiple camera shutters require physical tethers or genlock configurations, limiting the distance between cameras and introducing synchronization errors that can corrupt stereoscopic images.

Innovation Solution

Utilizing the GPS Pulse Per Second (PPS) signal as an external timing channel to synchronize multiple camera shutters without the need for physical tethers, ensuring precise synchronization across any number of cameras regardless of distance, by configuring camera processors to actuate shutters in response to the PPS signal.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If physical tethers are used to synchronize multiple camera shutters, then synchronization can be achieved, but the distance between cameras is limited by the tether length

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshutter synchronizationVSAvoiddistance between cameras

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical tether-based genlock system with an electromagnetic signal system. GPS receivers in each camera receive timing signals from GPS satellites, eliminating the need for physical tethers and enabling unlimited distance between cameras while maintaining synchronization reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces GPS satellites as intermediary timing sources that broadcast timing signals to multiple cameras simultaneously. This intermediary system allows cameras to synchronize without direct physical connection, resolving the contradiction between synchronization reliability and distance limitations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If genlock configuration with master and slave cameras is used, then shutter synchronization is achieved, but synchronization errors can occur that corrupt stereoscopic images

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveshutter synchronizationVSAvoidsynchronization accuracy

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the synchronization system into independent segments where each camera has its own GPS receiver and timing circuitry. Each camera operates independently with equal access to GPS timing signals, eliminating the master-slave hierarchy that causes synchronization errors in traditional genlock systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent makes each camera simultaneously capable of being both master and slave by providing all cameras with identical GPS receiving capability. This universal timing access eliminates the functional asymmetry in genlock systems that leads to synchronization inaccuracies

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS10084966B2Methods and apparatus for synchronizing multiple lens shutters using GPS pulse per second signaling

Publication Date: 2018.09.25 RED HEN SYSTEMS LLC

AI summary

Systems, devices, and methods for synchronizing the operation of a first shutter of a first camera with the operation of a second shutter of a second camera without a physical tether between the first and second cameras. The method includes: receiving a global positioning system (GPS) pulse-per-second (PPS) signal at the first and second cameras; and in response to a unique timing pulse in the PPS signal, simultaneously actuating the first and second shutters.