GPS Satellite Synchronization for Digital Image Signal Processors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional synchronization methods for digital image signal processors using wireless communication networks, such as WLAN or Bluetooth, result in significant time differences (1 to 3 seconds) that affect application operations, particularly in applications requiring simultaneous shutter operations, and previous methods using light and sensors are unreliable due to environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
The synchronization method involves synchronizing digital image signal processors with the time of an artificial satellite using a Global Positioning System (GPS) and transmitting a synchronization message with specific time information between processors within a synchronization group, allowing them to perform operations at a unified time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wireless communication network (WLAN or Bluetooth) is used to transmit operation commands between devices, then communication can be established between devices, but significant time difference (1 to 3 seconds) occurs affecting synchronization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wireless communication networks (WLAN, Bluetooth) with GPS satellite-based time synchronization. Instead of using radio frequency communication that introduces 1-3 second delays, the invention uses GPS satellites as a common time reference that both devices can access simultaneously, eliminating the communication delay inherent in wireless protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces GPS satellites as an intermediary time reference. Rather than devices communicating directly with each other (which causes delay), both devices independently synchronize with the GPS satellite time signal, using the satellite as a neutral mediator that provides a common time reference without introducing communication delays between devices.
2Loss of time
If light and sensor method is used for synchronization, then transmission time can be reduced, but reliability fails due to environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces light-based synchronization (which is affected by environmental factors like darkness, obstacles, and interference) with GPS radio frequency time signal reception. The GPS method uses electromagnetic waves at different frequencies that can penetrate various environmental conditions, providing reliable time synchronization regardless of lighting or physical obstacles.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter used for time transmission from light frequency to GPS radio frequency. By using radio waves in the GPS frequency range, the system overcomes the limitations of light-based methods which are blocked by darkness, walls, and other environmental factors, while maintaining fast transmission speed.
3Reliability
If GPS synchronization is implemented in each device, then time difference is eliminated, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the fact that modern digital devices already contain GPS receivers for location services. By reusing this existing GPS hardware and its time synchronization capability, the invention adds minimal complexity while achieving reliable synchronization. The same GPS module serves both location and time reference functions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach eliminates time differences and environmental interference, ensuring precise synchronization among digital image signal processors, thereby enhancing the reliability and accuracy of operations like shutter control in digital cameras and other image processing devices.
Implementation Method 1
synchronizing each of the digital image signal processors with the time of an artificial satellite respectively in the plurality of digital image signal processors
Data Source
AI summary
A synchronization method of a plurality of digital image signal processors when the digital image signal processors are to be operated simultaneously. The synchronization method includes: forming a plurality of digital image signal processors, which are to perform synchronization, into a synchronization group; synchronizing each of the digital image signal processors with the time of an artificial satellite respectively in the plurality of digital image signal processors; transmitting a synchronization message, comprising information of a specific synchronization time for performing synchronization, from an arbitrary digital image signal processor included in the synchronization group to another digital image signal processor included in the synchronization group; and performing synchronization in each of the digital image signal processors at the specific synchronization time based on the synchronization message.